SOME might have been in it to win it, but many of the 445 swimmers in the Coffs Coast Ocean Swims on Sunday, 22 March were cheering for one another.
Grandparents swam with their kids and grandchildren, workmates with friends and school chums with teachers.
The annual ocean swims at the Jetty are always a huge community event, now staged by Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club (SSLSC) and supported by masses of spectators.
“This, the 30th anniversary of the Swims, has again shown how fortunate the
By Mike HELY
Andrea FERRARI 0410 067 966 andrea@newsofthearea.com.au
Andrew VIVIAN 0414 646 198 andrew@newsofthearea.com.au
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Ocean event goes ‘swimmingly’
FROM Page 1
community is to have such a great venue as its focal point,” SSLSC’s Bruce Macphail told News Of The Area.
Ranging in age from eight to 88, swimmers took part in three events with 180 entrants hitting the water first in the 600m swim followed by 66 excited young entrants in the 300m junior swim and, finally, as the morning sun rose, 199 took to the water for the 2km swim.
There were seven inflatable rescue boats (IRBs) from four local surf clubs, three jet skis, and two Marine Rescue craft on the water keeping watch on the swimmers, as well as surf club members on rescue boards.
The feedback from competitors was that it was huge success and a well put together event
“Sawtell SLSC thanks all those who participated and especially the local council, business houses and clubs who supported this event in so many different ways,” Bruce said.
“The achievement of Greg Swan and Michael Tonks in having swum in every race
since its inception was duly recognised in a presentation by Mick Maley.
“Mick was the initiator of this event and was heavily involved for many years.
“It was great to have him swimming once again in this 30th anniversary swim.”
Sponsor and swimming coach Kim Roach told NOTA the event was another great success, due to “great conditions, strong performances, and a solid sense of connection”.
The conditions were favourable early with a calm gentle swell and clear water.
“For the 2000m, the wind had kicked in a little with parts being choppy, which challenged some swimmers [who] needed to adapt and stay focused and calm.
“From the very first wave at 8am to the final finishers, the atmosphere was buzzing and all swimmers crossing the finish line were left with a feeling of pride, celebration and achievement.
“It’s a reminder of what makes ocean swimming special, [it’s] the shared experience of getting out there and having a crack."
For all results visit Sawtell SLSC’s webpage and the Ocean Swims’ Facebook page.
Ticket giveaway
film festival Flickerfest returns to the Jetty Memorial Theatre in Coffs Harbour on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 April. The two nights of action are jam-packed with award-winning shorts that highlight the pinnacle of Australian and international short filmmaking.
News Of The Area has partnered with organisers to offer two double passes to Flickerfest in Coffs Harbour.
To win, send an email to media@ newsofthearea.com.au outlining what your favourite movie is and why.
SHORT
q Girls in the Junior Swim.
q The Men’s 2000m swimmers. q Women’s 600m participants.
q The Men’s 600m swimmers set off.
q Ian Hanson, father of Olympic swimmer Brooke Hanson and the swims’ ambassador with Sawtell Swim Coach Kim Roach.
q Men’s 2km winners: 3rd Cooper Woolley, 1st Lachlan Walker, 2nd Finn Casper. Jess MILLER jess@newsofthearea.com.au
DAMAGE CLAIM
FROM Page 1
for 15 years,” he said.
“However, during October to December 2025, we experienced about 20 severe vibrations, which rattled the windows.
“We then noticed cracks in the walls, and we discovered a leaking water pipe in the concrete foundations, which required redirecting the plumbing.
“I believe that the cause was the construction works on the Coffs bypass, about 500 metres from our house.
“We can hear the heavy machinery going most of the day.”
Mr Ryland has a report from his plumber saying the damage to the pipe could only have been caused by movement in the property’s foundations.
He took his concerns to
the Coffs Harbour bypass team, seeking to cover the cost of repairs to the walls and water pipe.
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) representatives placed vibration monitors at his property last month.
He was then told the vibrations were not a problem; his property was outside the distance for any trigger construction activities such as vibratory roller work, hammering or blasting; and that TfNSW denied any liability.
“Of course the monitors didn’t show anything unusual, because the horse had bolted by then,” Mr Ryland said.
Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh has made representations to the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison, on Mr Ryland’s
behalf, and is awaiting her response.
He said he had received “about a dozen” complaints from residents related to property damage, since the bypass work began.
“Coffs Harbour has challenging topography,” Mr Singh said.
“I’m calling on Transport for NSW to be fair and considerate when dealing with people’s genuine concerns.”
A TfNSW spokesperson said, “Coffs Harbour Bypass project takes seriously its responsibility of working within its Conditions of Approval and meeting its requirements for acceptable vibration levels as well as repairing damage to property when it is clear this damage is caused by construction activities we are carrying out.
“The Conditions of Approval require equipment
and work methods that mitigate against vibration levels likely to cause cosmetic or structural damage to properties.
“Residents are offered free property condition surveys before construction starts and after construction.
“If someone’s private property is damaged, with clear evidence provided that it was as a direct result of project construction activities, then claims are accepted and the contractor works with the community.”
The spokesperson said the project was required to carry out pre-construction and post-construction property condition reports within 50m of vibratory roller work, 100m of hammering sites, and 500m of controlled blast sites.
q Chris Ryland points to cracks that appeared in the wall of his house.
Teen charged over alleged hit-and-run
A 17-YEAR-OLD boy has been charged with five offences after a woman suffered head injuries during an alleged hit and run.
Glenreagh, about 30km north-west of Coffs Harbour.
About 11.40pm on Saturday 21 March, emergency services were called to James Street,
Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District attended and found a 21-year-old woman had allegedly been struck by an SUV before it was driven from the scene.
The woman was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to hospital in a critical condition
A crime scene was established and investigations commenced into the circumstances of the crash.
About 11.30am on Sunday 22 March, a 17-yearold boy was arrested in James Street.
He was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station where he was charged with five offences,
• Fail to stop and assist after vehicle impact causing grievous bodily harm
• Learner not accompanied by driver/ police officer/tester, and
• Not give particulars to police.
He has been refused bail to appear in a children’s court on Monday 23 March.
Council continues to back Foreshores proposal
By Andrew VIVIAN
IT WAS a tense City of Coffs Harbour’s Council meeting on 19 March as two motions about the Jetty Foreshores revitalisation proposal were raised and defeated.
Councillor Jonathan Cassell proposed a motion asking Council to note community responses to the June 2025 public exhibition; a Government Information Public Access (GIPA) application; and parliamentary intervention to access the Property and Development NSW (PDNSW) Response to Submissions Report.
A significant point in his motion was that the City, “Writes to the Minister for Lands and Property to request a Council briefing about the Response to Submissions.”
The motion was defeated five votes to three.
The key point of the motion was that Council withdraw its support for the proposal.
The motion was again defeated five votes to three.
“The level of community interest was evident in the very large group of people who attended the meeting,” Cr Judge said.
“The great majority of those people were clearly opposed to the Jetty Foreshores project and wanted to hear the views of the Mayor and councillors.
“They were denied that opportunity.
“The people who had come to hear the project debated by their elected representatives left angry and disappointed.”
Former Mayor and current councillor Paul Amos wished to speak to both motions but was prevented.
He moved a “motion of dissent against the ruling of the Chair”, which was lost five votes to three.
A second motion, proposed by Cr Judge, asked Council to note the correlation between the submissions to the proposal exhibition and the Council poll conducted in 2024, and that despite the NSW Government’s commitment to public housing, none will be provided as part of the proposal.
“I’m very disappointed with the discussion on the Jetty Foreshores motions,” Cr Amos said.
“A block of five councillors voted against me being able to speak on either matter.
“I’m very saddened by the way some councillors conducted themselves on the night with regards to fair and open discussion.”
Mayor Nikki Williams said, “There has been a lot said publicly, but not all of it reflects the full picture.
“I understand there are strong views by some, however much of the commentary is not grounded in the reality of where this proposal currently sits or the role Council plays.
“The State Government has made it clear they intend to progress this proposal, and if it goes ahead, then we need to work constructively to secure the best possible outcome.
“Our staff are working closely with the state on a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) to ensure key community benefits are delivered including a water park, new playgrounds,
improved public spaces and better access to the Jetty Foreshore.”
She said walking away or revoking support would not stop the proposal.
“It would simply remove our ability to influence it,” Cr Williams said.
“The VPA will come back to Council and be placed on public exhibition, which is the appropriate, transparent time for community input.
“My focus is staying collaborative and ensuring it delivers real benefits for our community.”
Cr Judge said residents should listen carefully to the State Government’s own admissions about the project.
“The Response To Submissions report also noted that the State
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Government would not be funding the proposed boardwalk, the pedestrian overpass over the railway line or the traffic lights on Harbour Drive and Orlando streets that will be crucial to the project,” he said.
“Ratepayers will need to meet the cost of those items.
“I asked that Council note the facts and withdraw our support for the project, in line with the wishes of the majority of the community we serve.”
Cr Cassell said with Coffs Harbour’s population expected to grow to 106,000 people by 2041, “future traffic for the Jetty Foreshore seems likely to be a nightmare”.
“If the Mayor and four other Councillors had agreed to a briefing, closer scrutiny
of this and several other matters could have been raised,” he said.
“This is very troubling and raises a range of questions on the lack of transparency and accountability for our community.”
Councillors Judge and Cassell have assured the community that the fight for the future of the Jetty Foreshores is far from over.
Cr Judge said, “We will continue to bring your concerns to Council and ensure that you are represented.
“There is a long way to go and there is still ample opportunity to stop this unpopular project.
“The community deserves a voice in Council decisions.
“It’s just basic respect.”
q Artist impression of Coffs Jetty Foreshore Precinct North Park looking south. Photo: PDNSW.
Community invited to have a say on Urunga’s affordable housing proposal
By Leigh WATSON
BELLINGEN Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a proposed affordable housing development at Ferry Street, Urunga, marking the next step in a project years in the making.
The consultation follows a Mayoral Minute passed unanimously by Bellingen Shire Council in May last year, requesting a detailed report into the legal and financial considerations of transferring the Council-owned land to the not-for-profit Waterfall Way Community Land Trust (CLT).
The Trust, established by the volunteer-led Housing Matters Action Group, has been working on the project for eight years with ongoing support from the Bellingen Council.
With that report now released, the group is encouraging the community to provide feedback on
whether the land at Lot 1 Ferry Street should be transferred to support the development.
Housing Matters Action Group Chair Kerry Pearse welcomed the consultation process.
“It was great to read the report and understand the sort of process Council will use if they decide to transfer the land,” she said.
“It is a big decision for the Council to transfer public land for any purpose – even affordable housing, which will deliver a clear community benefit. It is important that the community is given the opportunity to say what they think, to inform the Council's decision.”
If approved, the project would deliver around six affordable homes on the 2,195 square metre site, with a mix of two and three bedroom dwellings aimed at local working households.
The development would
operate under a Community Land Trust model, which is widely used overseas but new to Australia.
Under this model, the trust retains ownership of the land while residents purchase the homes, helping to keep prices more affordable.
Resale conditions are also applied to ensure the homes remain accessible for future generations.
The Ferry Street site is intended as a demonstration project, showcasing how the model could work locally and potentially encouraging similar initiatives by other landholders and councils.
The proposal comes amid ongoing housing challenges in the region.
In Bellingen Shire, house prices are significantly higher than the regional NSW average.
This has made home ownership increasingly out of reach.
The 2021 Census
q
identified at least 293 households in housing stress in the Bellingen Shire.
Community consultation is open until 30 March, with submissions helping to
inform Council’s decision.
A report on the outcomes is expected to be presented at the April Council meeting.
Residents can view the proposal and provide
feedback via Council’s website bellingen.nsw.gov. au/Have-Your-Say/PotentialDisposal-of-OperationalLand-for-AffordableHousing.
Vital link reopens between Bellingen and Dorrigo
q Installing the second layer of the container wall at the Gordonville slip site, Waterfall Way.
AFTER being closed for two months, Waterfall Way was opened to traffic on Sunday - restoring a vital link for the North Coast.
The major access route between Bellingen and Dorrigo has been closed since 19 January due to a landslip, causing significant impacts to residents, businesses and organisations in the Bellingen Shire.
Temporary repairs to the Gordonville slip site were completed last week.
One lane is now operational on the northern side of the road under temporary traffic signals, with vehicles travelling through the slip site one direction at a time at a reduced speed of 40 km/h.
The temporary fix consists of a gravel-filled
shipping container wall - two containers high and eight long - attached using nine high-strength steel anchors drilled deep into the rockface.
“Our final readiness works, installation of site controls and safety checks to allow us to reopen Waterfall Way have gone better than planned and we've been able to open the road today," Transport for NSW Executive Director Partnerships and Integration North Greg Collins said.
Bellingen Shire Council General Manager Mark Griffioen said Council staff have been “working closely” with Transport for NSW (TfNSW) teams and contractors during the site investigation process, site clearing, and installation of the shipping container wall.
A statement from Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison noted that continued access will depend on the ongoing stability of the slope.
The road may need to close at short notice in response to rainfall, rockfall or changing ground conditions.
In such an event, light vehicles will be diverted back onto the alternate route via Summervilles Road.
Ms Aitchison said the NSW Government will “keep working to strengthen this corridor and improve its resilience for the long term”.
Bellingen Mayor Steve Allan said the importance of the road cannot be overstated.
“While this temporary opening will be a great relief
to the people who rely on Waterfall Way, this is the first step in a lengthy process.
“Transport for NSW and the Minns Government have committed to carrying out a detailed corridor assessment, identifying short-term solutions, as well as options for increasing the long-term resilience of Waterfall Way.”
Mr Collins said TfNSW was continuing work on long-term design options for Waterfall Way.
"We are yet to finalise the design that will allow Waterfall Way to be fully reopened but we will continue to keep the community updated as we work on a long-term solution to ensure Waterfall Way is a safe and reliable connection,” he said.
Blueprint released for more inclusive Coffs Coast
q Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee Chair Connor Bryant.
A list is published towards the back of this newspaper.
www.newsofthearea.com.au
CITY of Coffs Harbour’s “Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan - 2026-2030” is now on public exhibition until 22 April.
“The City has worked closely with the Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee to develop this blueprint which is our statement of ambition for a fairer go for all,”
Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“Apart from being the right thing to do, making our city more accessible makes absolute sense given almost one-in-five of the population in our Local Government Area (LGA) identified as having disability in 2021.”
The draft plan has four key focus areas and short and longer term goals including:
• Investigate installation of a beach mat to improve access to Woolgoolga Beach Reserve
• That accessibility outcomes are part and parcel of all new City projects
• Provide up to date information for visitors and residents on City facilities and services which support access including mobility maps, accommodation guides and accessible business guides.
• Undertake a five-year review of accessible parking supply in key centres and review bus stops in accordance with accessibility legislation; and
• Promote the existence of accessible Changing Places in the LGA and investigate the feasibility of accessible amenities with sliding doors at ‘regional-level’ facilities.
The draft plan includes the case study of Connor Bryant, who chairs the Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee committee and lives with Functional
Neurological Disorder (FND).
“I have experienced first-hand the barriers people with disability face when accessing housing, services, and community life - both independently and with support,” Mr Bryant said.
“Through my lived experience, advocacy, and leadership, I remain committed to helping create a community where everyone - regardless of ability - can feel valued, supported, and included.”
City Planning and Communities Director Ian Fitzgibbon said creating a more liveable Coffs Harbour for all can deliver widespread benefit.
“That can be things like better pathways, road crossings and ramps through to accessible playgrounds and accessible seating in public places,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
“We also need to strive toward having
well-lit public spaces with weatherprotection and where possible, hand-rails.”
As well as improvements to the built environment, the draft plan tasks the City to better promote the achievements of people with disability through its publications, social media and marketing materials.
“Building positive community attitudes about disability encourages a more inclusive society for everyone,” Business Services Director Steve Bayliss said.
“Improved engagement will help us to make decisions which reflect the wide breadth of opinions and needs within our diverse community.”
You can view the Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan at https://haveyoursay. coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/diap-2026-2030.
Submissions can be made through to 22 April.
Hundreds brave rain to march for forests
By Andrew VIVIAN
APPROXIMATELY
500
people braved the rain to take part in the 2026 Bob Brown Foundation (BBF) March for Forests at Bellingen Park on Sunday, 22 March.
It was one of 14 marches across the country, in total attracting 15,000 participants who called for an end to native forest logging and mining.
In Bellingen, they listened to speeches and music before marching.
One of the speakers, Bellingen Shire councillor Dominic King, told News Of The Area, "It was so good to
be among so many staunch defenders of our native forests.
“Seeing people of all ages across the region come out and show that the destruction of our natural heritage has to stop, was empowering.
“We know that you can't put a price on our children's future and that stopping native forest logging is one of the most effective ways to protect our rivers, save our species and tackle a warming planet."
Former Magistrate David Heilpern also spoke to the crowd.
"Apart from a March
for our forests, this is also a gathering for victims of crime,” he said.
“We know who the criminals are, the Forestry Corporation, and we know who the victims are, ancient trees, animals, riparian zones.
“But also us, the residents of NSW, who waste our resources on these criminals and these crimes.”
After the speeches, the crowd marched from the park, up the main street and then back down in heavy rain.
Doro Babeck, NSW campaigner for BBF, said, “Numbers are increasing in capital cities, with 3000 marchers in Melbourne and Hobart and 2,500 in Perth.
“We had a huge downpour
of rain as we were doing the street march and everyone just kept marching,” she said.
“Then 50 people went out to Pine Creek State Forest to call for protection of the critical forest bridge to link coastal koala populations with the Dorrigo Plateau and the rest of the Great Koala National Park.”
Catherine Jones, Bellingen Environment Centre (BEC) Secretary, said, “The community of Bellingen and its bioregion came out yet again in full force to show their true commitment to end native forest logging.
“We live in one of the most beautiful places on Earth where the rivers run free and the birds and wildlife are rife, and the ancient Gondwana
forest towers from the mountain to the sea.”
Bellingen Environment Centre is a staunch supporter of the Bob Brown Foundation and its rallies. It was the first
environment group in NSW to have an “end native forest logging” stance.
“It’s astounding that we are still fighting to save the forests in this climate emergency,” Catherine said.
•We
q The crowd gathered at Bellingen Park. Photo: supplied, Bob Brown Foundation.
q Marchers went up and down Bellingen’s main street. Photo: supplied, Bob Brown Foundation.
q After the march, some went to Pine Creek State Forest to highlight their call for a forest bridge. Photo: supplied, Bob Brown Foundation.
Open Home Saturday
11th April | 10am – 12pm
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Funding secured for Moonee footbridge
CONSTRUCTION of a new Moonee Beach footbridge is set to begin in June 2027, following a long-awaited funding commitment from the NSW Government.
For years the footbridge provided access over Sugar Mill Creek, a Crown waterway, connecting Coffs Coast Regional Park and Green Bluff to Crown land managed by Reflections Holidays.
It served as a key link in the 60km Solitary Islands coastal walk but had become dilapidated over decades of use and was closed in November 2022 as a public safety risk.
An engineer’s assessment later confirmed the footbridge was unstable and repairs were not feasible, before it was removed in June 2025. Construction funding for a replacement bridge will be provided by Crown Lands, part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, with a development application due to be submitted to the City of Coffs Harbour Council in June this year.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said, “The NSW Government is proud to support the construction of a brand-new
Moonee Beach footbridge to restore safe and reliable access for locals and visitors to the beaches, headlands and trails they love in this area.
“By backing this project we are supporting local tourism and the thousands of visitors who come to experience the Coffs Coast each year.”
A tender will be issued for construction works following completion of the DA process.
Construction of the footbridge will begin in June 2027, pending approvals and the procurement of a construction contractor.
The construction commitment follows the appointment of Coffs Harbour company BK. Engineering Consulting Solutions in December to design the new footbridge due to its expertise in bridge building and maintenance and experience servicing regional areas.
Crown Lands previously provided $350,000 for Stage 1 of the footbridge redevelopment project, which includes the bridge design and planning approvals.
An additional $100,000 for Stage 1 has been committed by the City of Coffs Harbour Council on behalf of the Coffs Coast Regional Park Trust, as well as $50,000 from
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES
2026 ANZAC DAY
25 April 2026
Council hereby advises that pursuant to Section 116 of the Roads Act, 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to allow the temporary road closures of the following streets on Saturday 25 April 2026 for the purpose of holding the Anzac Day March and Dawn Services.
Event: Coffs Harbour Anzac Day Dawn Service and March
Street: • Park Avenue (Brelsford Park, Earl Street to Gordon Street)
• Gordon Street (Park Avenue to Vernon Street)
Vernon Street (Gordon Street to Pacific Highway)
• Dawn Service: 5:00am – 6:30am
• Day Service: 8:30am – 12:30pm
Event: Sawtell Anzac Day Service and March
Street: • First Avenue, between Second Avenue and Boronia Street
• Second Avenue, between First Avenue and Fourth Avenue
• Fourth Avenue, between Second Avenue and Johnstone Lane finishing at the Lyle Rose RSL Memorial Park.
• Time: 10:30am – 12:30pm
Event: Woolgoolga Anzac Day Dawn Service and March
Street: Beach Street between Bultitude Street and Wharf Street
• Dawn Service: 5:00am – 6:30am
• Day Service: 10:30am – 12:30pm
Telephone enquiries should be directed to the City on 6648 4000.
Reflections Holidays.
Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the funding commitment was a “great and long-awaited
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result”.
“The absence of a pedestrian bridge to the headland has raised safety concerns and also been
detrimental to our tourism offering as it was the missing link on our 60-kilometre Solitary Islands Coastal Walk,” Cr Williams said.
“Last year there was a fire on the headland and the absence of a footbridge created additional challenge for firefighters.”
q Sugar Mill Creek at Moonee. Photo: supplied, DPHI.
In memory of ‘Herbie’
By Andrea FERRARI
ALBERT Nuster, 90, known fondly as Herbie, passed away peacefully at his nursing home in the Masonic Village Raleigh on 6 March, 2026.
Herbie requested no funeral service and was privately cremated with his famous hat placed respectfully upon his head.
It was the right thing to do; his hat was as famous around Urunga as the man himself, Herbie’s friend James Hughes told News Of The Area.
“Adorning the hat were bird feathers from the sulphur crested cockatoo, black cockatoo and peacock; they were the hallmark of the hat,” Mr Hughes said.
Born in Esslingen am Neckar in Germany in 1936, Herbie was a cabinet maker by trade.
After completing his apprenticeship he left
Germany and set off on a lifetime of world travel, visiting 84 countries and living in some too.
Mr Hughes, who had coffee with Herbie most days of the week, said that in those days his friend would have travelled by ship, motorbike, hitch-hiking, walking and trains.
“I have three giant boxes of paperwork from all this travel,” Mr Hughes said.
“He photographed everything; he had a great eye for a picture. There are 40 albums of black-and-white and colour photographs from many years of travel.
“He’d been everywhere.”
When he visited Australia for a second time, he lived in Queanbeyan near Canberra before moving to Urunga.
In his mid-sixties Herbie suffered a stroke which resulted in paralysis of his right arm and partially in his leg.
“This is when he got his
stick, which he would wave at people, always in jest,” Mr Hughes said.
“His ‘warning wave’ became well known around town.”
Herbie enjoyed a connection with nature around Urunga and then Raleigh, which fed his enchantment for wildlife –birds especially, and animals, seashells, plants and mushrooms.
He didn’t appear to have family, and locals understood him to be a loner satisfied with a quiet life.
Just over two years ago, it was deemed “sensible” for Herbie to move to a nursing home where he could receive the care he needed.
“He was sharp as a tack but losing physical abilities,” Mr Hughes said.
“We worked through his possessions, and he donated
his library of books to Urunga school.”
Herbie is famously the centrepiece of local artist David Bromley’s captivating trompe-l’oeil (trick of the eye) street mural in Urunga.
“When I asked him to go on the mural, he said yes and later on agreed to go on the ‘Wanted’ poster,” Mr Bromley told NOTA.
“I told him probably people would offer to take
him to the Police Station to claim the five hundred pounds reward.
“He said that was okay.
“Once, when I was putting finishing touches on the mural, a woman was looking at the ‘Highly Dangerous Villain poster’ and said, ‘Why, what’s he done?’.”
Reflecting on 90 years of Herbie’s life, the question might be: “what hasn’t he done?”.
Refugee farmers share food passion
By Kate PYE
A SPECIAL community event
titled “A Whole Lot of Okra” was held at National Cartoon Gallery on Tuesday, 17 March.
The evening was organised by the North Coast Settlement Service (NCSS) to highlight the power of food in connecting people across cultures.
The NCSS, a program of the St Vincent de Paul Society, provides a broad range of settlement services to humanitarian arrivals and other vulnerable migrants on the North Coast.
The event brought together community members, volunteers, refugee farmers and cooks, for a shared meal of various okra dishes and cultural celebration.
Okra is a green, fingershaped vegetable widely used across African, Middle
Eastern and Asian cuisines. It is known for its mild flavour, unique texture and versatility.
Farmers from very different cultural backgrounds including Ethiopian Anuak, Myanmar Zomi and Iraqi Yazidi communities, all grow and cook okra.
In 2024, the NCSS responded to a post regarding land available for lease in Bonville.
They were seeking farmland for a project allowing refugees the opportunity to grow food in the local area.
The food served on the night was both grown and
prepared by the participants of this project.
North Coast Settlement Service Manager Biba Honnet said, “The project has been a learning experience for everyone involved.
“Farmers have had to adapt their traditional knowledge to Australian conditions, including new
climates, pests and soil challenges.”
The project’s outcomes have been overwhelmingly positive.
Participants’ English has improved, and they have built confidence and developed a stronger sense of belonging. It has also supported food security, created small income opportunities and significantly improved participant wellbeing.
Nathan Cosford from Edible Forest Co. attended the event, as he was interested to see the refugees’ farming methods.
He said they were using an “impressive display of companion planting and intercropping”, which is an “ancient sustainable farming practice, commonly used across different cultures”.
The evening started with a Welcome to Country from Uncle Richard Widders, a
respected Gumbaynggirr Elder who reminded guests of the importance of respecting land, culture and Elders.
Other guests included Awia Markey, organiser of the Coffs Coast Long Lunch, who said the event has “strong future potential”.
“It could grow into an annual cultural event with real tourism appeal for the region,” Awia said.
Given the success of the project, the NCSS is looking to expand the initiative.
“We would love to be able to offer other refugees the same opportunity to connect with our country and the community, so please reach out if you have spare [land],” Biba said.
An exhibition of the project including photos and a short documentary is currently on display at Harry Bailey Memorial Library in Yarrila Place, Coffs Harbour.
q Friend James Hughes and Herbie.
q Herbie the traveller, back in the day.
q Ariet Ombali Odola from Africa.
q Guests mingling at the National Cartoon Gallery.
Bumper year for Rotary BookFest
By Andrea FERRARI
ANTICIPATING the final fundraising tally ahead of official figures to be announced next week, Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour’s (RCCH) BookFest organisers are confident of a record breaking year.
“We have exceeded last year’s takings, which is wonderful, and we thank each and every person who came and bought a book,” BookFest coordinators Tony and Glen James told News Of The Area.
“Proceeds from this year’s BookFest will support a number of community endeavours including Lifeline North Coast, Breakers AFC, Coffs Regional Brass Band, educational scholarships for Coffs Harbour students, Disabled Surfing Association Mid North Coast and health programs supporting the Coffs Coast community."
Over the eight-day event at Norm Jordan Pavillion in Coffs Harbour Showground, some 70,000 books, games, DVDs and CDs were sold.
“This year people were particularly seeking out fantasy fiction, children's [books], new age and craft,” Glen said.
While a collection of vintage Phantom comics was announced for sale, interest
focused on individual copies but RCCH believes the value is in selling it as a set.
“We are currently holding a silent auction where people put in bids. At closing on 12 April, the highest bidder will win.”
Visitors came from all over the Mid North Coast, Northern Rivers and Sydney.
High points included comments such as “our
family look forward to this each year”, “better than Christmas” and “a book lover’s paradise”.
“One happy customer bought a rare 1880 edition of Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ (the name of the book before it eventually became “Alice in Wonderland”).
“So many people were able to find the book they
Behind the Secret Door
By Andrea FERRARI
“BEHIND the Secret Door”, Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group’s (CHCAG) newest exhibition, is open at the Showground Gallery. The exhibition invites viewers to look beyond the surface, exploring themes
of mystery, discovery and personal reflection through a diverse range of artistic styles and media.
The opening event was well attended, with a warm and lively atmosphere as guests enjoyed the opportunity to meet artists and discuss their work.
had been searching for over many years.”
Coffs Harbour Rotary BookFest is an annual community event in Coffs Harbour.
People browsed for hours and some came each day to see what was new on the tables.
BookFest is a combined effort of Rotarians not just from the Coffs Harbour Club
but also Rotary Club Coffs Harbour Daybreak, Coffs City Rotary Club and the community volunteers who also help at the book drop off on the last Sunday of each month.
“We would also extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the businesses and organisations in the Coffs area who promoted this year’s BookFest,” Glen added.
encourages curiosity and interpretation,” said exhibition coordinator
Adding to the occasion, CHCAG artist Jocelyn (Jos) Challis was announced as the People’s Choice winner of the group’s previous exhibition, “The Best Things in Life are Free", with her painting “Play Time”.
CHCAG President Sue Roberts said, “It’s always
a delight to announce the People’s Choice award and to recognise the strong connection Jos’s work made with visitors.”
Behind the Secret Door will run until 22 April.
“Visitors can expect a thoughtful and visually engaging exhibition that
Karen Gorzynska.
“Ï am very impressed with the imaginative works our members [have] created.
“We’re already looking ahead and preparing for the next major exhibition, ‘The Showground Gallery
Art Prize 2026’, [which is an] open exhibition… with prizes to be awarded across five categories.” Entries are now open and will close on 17 April.
“We encourage all artists and art lovers alike to get involved, either by submitting work or coming along to support the vibrant local arts community.”
q Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Club members and volunteers ready for opening.
q Happy customers at BookFest 2026.
q Coffs artists Denise Baffis and Annie Houston.
q People's Choice winner Jos Challis with CHCAG President Sue Roberts.
q Raffle winners, Diane and Cr Tony Judge.
Park precinct to officially open
THE Connell Park Sporting Precinct will celebrate the official opening of its new and upgraded sporting facilities on Saturday 11 April with a community fun day.
The largest sporting facility in the Bellingen Shire, work has been underway at Connell Park since 2023, with the construction of new netball courts.
The precinct has been closed since September 2024, with improvement works undertaken for the playing fields, construction of two amenity buildings and public toilets, as well as landscaping improvements, new lighting, paths, fencing and footbridges.
Bellingen Shire Council Mayor Steve Allan is looking
forward to a chance to celebrate with the community and showcase the new facilities.
“I know the community is looking forward to using Connell Park again, and we’re excited to finally be able to show off our new, state-ofthe-art facilities that our teams have been working hard to get completed before the Autumn sport season kicks off,” said Mayor Allan.
“We’re inviting the community to participate and watch a range of games and activities put on by our local sporting clubs, as well as enjoy a free sausage sizzle, free access to the Bellingen pool, and be there to witness the official opening of the Park.”
The Council project has been made possible through the support of the NSW Government via several grants, while Cricket NSW funded the training nets and new wickets.
Council General Manager Mark Griffioen said the project has been a multi-year, multimillion dollar investment into the capacity and wellbeing of the Bellingen Shire.
“These big projects ask a lot of a small regional council such as ours, but when they are completed, the rewards and benefits to the community are significant and ripple out to the whole community,” said Mr Griffioen.
“I am particularly proud of our teams and contractors
who have built the amenity buildings, installed fencing, coaxed and cajoled the turf until it covered the entire sporting field, landscaped, built paths and footbridges,
all while working around natural disasters and the myriad of challenges that occur during a project like this.”
The community fun
day is hosted by Council, the Connell Park Sporting Committee, and Community Aquatics, the manager of the Bellingen Swimming Pool.
‘Cruisey’ life for sand artist
By Kate PYE
FOR Coffs
Harbour artist John Thiering, work can be tough - especially when it involves travelling the world on cruise ships and performing to packed audiences.
“I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember,” he
Colourful Easter for Woopi
By Kim SATCHELL
THE foreshore of Woolgoolga Beach Reserve is set to burst into colour over the Easter long weekend.
Groups and individuals who have chosen to participate in making paper sculpture gardens - ingeniously created by bringing individual flowers and butterflies togetherhave been busy crafting and painting their contributions.
The final result will be open for everyone to see from Friday 3 to Monday 6 April.
The exhibit will also include an Easter Garden night display, lighting up the Beach Reserve.
The theme celebrates the promise of new life in the heartbreak and hope of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Fiona Bennel of Woolgoolga Community Creations told News Of The Area, “There are plans for a video shot from drones of the field of flowers, hopefully at night as well, which should be spectacular for those who aren’t able to attend.
“Those in the corrections centre and the retirement village will be able to enjoy their efforts… and see how their contribution enhanced the overall effect.”
While the spiritual aspect of the display is an important
motivation, aesthetic appeal is also front of mind.
Each individual piece, whether a butterfly or flower, is painted distinctively but melds together in a riot of colour, patterns and shapes.
Groups involved in making flowers include the Clarence Correctional Centre (250 flowers), the Jesus Club (Northern Beaches Anglican, Woolgoolga), the Mini Vinnies (community group), the Woolgoolga Retirement Centre and Woolgoolga Community Creations.
There were also many individuals working from home.
Kits of two flowers and two butterflies are still
said.
After studying art in Sydney and holding his first solo exhibition in 1987, John eventually made his way to the Mid North Coast, settling in Coffs Harbour in 2014 after raising his family in Kempsey.
These days, his signature art form is sand animation, which he discovered in 2010.
Using only his hands, John creates intricate images in sand on a lightbox, filmed live and projected onto a big screen with music.
His 45-minute shows weave multiple images
together to tell a story, often in front of audiences of up to 1,000 people.
A friend’s suggestion in 2017 saw him try his luck with cruise ship entertainment.
Within a week of sending off a showreel, he had his first contract.
Since then, he’s travelled extensively, with one early highlight a trip along the Italian coast to Barcelona, his first taste of Europe.
Next up, John will head from Japan to Alaska for his latest cruise.
When he’s not performing at sea, John keeps busy creating
new work and taking on commissions, including recent pieces for the Northern Territory Tourism Brolga Awards and an international aeronautical event in Sydney.
He also collaborates with other creatives, including local animator Adam Hinshaw (Sandimation) and Gumbaynggirr artist Brentyn Lugnan, with their Dreamtime story “Giidanyba” now on display at Yarilla Arts and Museum. And when he’s not living the cruise life, John works casually as a teacher, which, he admits, is nowhere near as “cruisey”.
available for a small donation, from the Woolgoolga Visitors Information Centre and the So Sweet Bouquets shop in Woolgoolga.
The competition for “Best in Show” involves only the
students who joined from Mullaway, Woolgoolga, Sandy Beach and St Francis Xavier primary schools.
Winners will be announced on Friday 10 April on the Woolgoolga
Community Creations Facebook page
Flowers and butterflies will be available on Easter Monday from 11am-3pm, with donations going towards the costs of the project.
q Drone image of Connell Park Sporting Precinct. Photo: BSC.
q John Theiring with his signature sand art.
q Woolgoolga Community Creations members crafting their way towards Easter.
Pictured: Ingenia Lifestyle Hervey Bay.
Empty bowls to warm hearts
By Kim SATCHELL
A FAMILY-FRIENDLY
community event with a twist is being held in Valla Beach, involving a bowl of soup and a handmade craft classic.
The Village Pottery Company and Coastal Claymakers are raising funds on Sunday 21 June, the Winter Solstice, to support the soup kitchen and outreach centre of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Nambucca Heads.
From 4pm until 7pm, handmade bowls donated by local ceramicists will be filled with homemade soup.
There will also be a bonfire and original live music by the Nambucca Valley’s Steve Zirkler.
The idea for the “Empty
Bowls” project originated in 1990 in Michigan USA, where a high school teacher helped his students solve a problem.
They were searching for a way to raise funds to support a food drive.
What evolved was a class project to make ceramic bowls for a fundraising meal.
Guests were served soup and bread and were invited to keep the bowl as a reminder of their contribution to combatting hunger in the world.
Megan Vicary from the Village Pottery Company told News Of The Area, “We were part of the very first ‘Empty Bowls’ event in Coffs Harbour years ago and it was such a memorable and heartwarming evening.
“We are truly looking
forward to hosting a space for the 2026 event.”
Free bowl painting sessions will be held for the community in the leadup, with the first session from 10am to 11am at the
Village Pottery Company on Saturday 28 March.
For more information, visit Eventbrite – Soup and Solstice, Empty Bowls Event or call Michaela on 0412 929 030.
Statewide compliance blitz on fuel prices
THE NSW Government has fast-tracked a statewide fuel compliance blitz to “strengthen fuel price transparency” and protect motorists from misleading pricing.
At the NSW Fuel Security Roundtable held last week, retailers agreed to use the FuelCheck app to inform the Government when they have run out of fuel.
FuelCheck is the NSW Government’s real-time fuel price transparency tool and provides motorists with instant access to prices from around 2,400 service stations across the state.
The app allows consumers to compare prices, track price cycles, save favourite stations and receive price-drop alerts
before filling up.
Under NSW law, fuel retailers must:
• Register with FuelCheck and report price changes in real time
• Ensure displayed prices match the price charged at the bowser.
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said, “It’s the law for fuel retailers to register and correctly report their prices through FuelCheck, so motorists can have confidence.
“NSW Fair Trading is significantly increasing its compliance activity to make sure motorists get accurate price information every time they fill up.
“If consumers see a price mismatch between FuelCheck and the bowser, they should report it via the
app or website to NSW Fair Trading.”
Retailers who break the rules face on-thespot fines of $1,100, or Court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations.
To ensure compliance, NSW Fair Trading is currently conducting unannounced inspections of fuel retailers across metropolitan and regional areas.
Inspectors have already carried out over 190 service station inspections across the state, issuing 13 penalty infringement notices.
NSW Fair Trading continues to work closely with the ACCC, including by sharing data, to uphold strong consumer protection standards.
Market information sought from major fuel companies
NSW Energy Minister Penny Sharpe has written to the chief executives of the major fuel companies to seek information to inform the state’s response to fuel distribution challenges arising from the war in the Middle East.
While the Federal Government has confirmed that fuel deliveries to Australia continue to arrive
as planned, NSW and other states are experiencing localised shortages and distribution issues in the face of increased demand.
The NSW Government is seeking historical information on storage and stocks, as well as sales and orders.
“We are also requesting information on future orders and forecasts,” the
NSW Government said in a statement.
“This information will be used to form a more complete view on what is happening in the market and how the government can work with the fuel industry and end customers to maintain economic activity through a period of uncertainty.”
According to the government, fuel supplies are
arriving in NSW as expected and supply remains secure.
“We are continuing to monitor the impacts the Middle East conflict is having on NSW fuel distribution,” Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe said.
“We are planning for all possible scenarios, noting the unpredictable nature of the overseas conflict and the potential for the fuel situation
to deteriorate.”
To support national coordination, the NSW Government has designated the Secretary of the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Anthony Lean as the state’s fuel coordinator.
Mr Lean is working with Anthea Harris, who has been appointed as the
Commonwealth’s Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator.
The NSW Government’s message remains that “people should only buy as much fuel as they need”.
Motorists are encouraged to download the NSW FuelCheck app or visit the FuelCheck website for daily information on fuel prices as an indication of the availability across the state.
q A range of distinctive ceramic bowls will be created on the night.
q Zara turning a bowl at Village Pottery Company in Valla Beach.
q FuelCheck is the NSW Government’s real-time fuel price transparency tool and provides motorists with instant access to prices from around 2,400 service stations across the state. Photo: NSW Gov.
From Coffs to the spotlight: Spectacular auditions begin
THE NSW Schools Spectacular audition team headed north on Wednesday for live Featured Vocalist auditions, giving Coffs Coast and Northern NSW public school students the hometown advantage.
Secondary students from schools across the region –Coffs Harbour, Gulmarrad, South Grafton, Casino, Camden Haven, Ballina, Bellingen, Mullumbimby, Maclean, Bonville and Woolgoolga - auditioned at the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium in the hopes of securing a place in the world’s largest annual variety show produced by the NSW Department of Education’s
Arts Unit.
This is the third consecutive year the team has taken auditions on the road into the regions to provide greater opportunity for regional students.
Riverina was first up, followed by Coffs Harbour and Armidale.
The NSW Schools Spectacular has launched the careers of many beloved Australian artists such as Human Nature, Nathan Foley, Jack Vidgen, Paulini and 2024 Australian Idol runner-up Ilish Rettalick, who took to the Qudos Bank Arena stage for the first time as a Featured Artist in 2024.
Schools Spectacular
crowd favourite and Year 11 Maclean High School student Alora Mahoney is auditioning for her fourth consecutive year, wowing on the Qudos Bank Arena stage in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
Schools Spectacular Creative Director Sonja Sjolander, said holding auditions across regional NSW makes a substantial difference to student confidence and overall performance.
“We’re searching for truly original talent; not just the usual song-and-dance routine, but extraordinary students with a distinct spark, capable of electrifying both the audience and the
5,000 performers they’ll inspire and lead,” explained Ms Sjolander.
“Heading into the regions to see young artists in their local environment gives us a better sense of student personality and individuality, which is so important for this year’s theme ‘Original’.
“We look forward to seeing what these students can potentially bring to this year’s show.”
In the hours before auditions, students participated in a half-day skills workshop to develop performance quality and vocal technique.
“This year’s regional tour is a collaboration, not just an
What car was that again?
By Kate PYE
IN OUR recent feature “Case of boys and their toys at Summer Beach Hop” (NOTA 18 March) we celebrated a collection of stunning classic cars and the passionate owners behind them.
However, eagle-eyed readers and a few car enthusiasts picked up that several of the vehicles were mislabelled.
The mix-up sparked some interesting discussions and gave us an opportunity
to properly acknowledge the owners who shared their time and pride and joy with us.
Craig Dandeaux: 1967 Jaguar E-Type
Craig’s 1967 Jaguar E-Type is the epitome of British automotive elegance.
Famously described by Enzo Ferrari as "the most beautiful car ever made”, the E-Type was more than just a pretty face; it was a highperformance machine with a top speed of 246 km/h.
A quirky but functional
hallmark of early E-Types, like Craig's, is the threewindscreen-wiper setup, required because the glass was so wide and low that two standard blades couldn't provide enough coverage.
This model has graced the screen in everything from Austin Powers to Mad Men, and was the choice of legends like Steve McQueen and George Harrison.
Neville Curtis: 1978 Chevrolet Camaro
Neville’s 1978 Chevrolet Camaro is a true icon of the
car.
This specific year was a milestone, as the Camaro famously outsold the Ford Mustang for the first time.
Neville's car captures the spirit of the late 1970s perfectly, featuring the new body-coloured urethane front end that replaced the old chrome bumpers.
These cars are Hollywood royalty, famously driven by Eddie Murphy in Beverly Hills Cop II and featured as a central "character" in Fast
audition,” said Ms Sjolander.
“The show isn’t fully finished yet, so the workshop is also a chance to share original ideas to integrate into the creative design of the production.”
More than 5,000 NSW public school students from hundreds of schools across New South Wales will come together at Qudos Bank Arena on 27 and 28 November 2026 for the 43rd Schools Spectacular, ‘Original’.
Times at Ridgemont High.
Kevin Mulroney: 1958 Ford Customline Star Model
Kevin’s 1958 Ford Customline Star Model is a rare and rugged piece of Australian motoring heritage.
Known as the "Star Model" due to its unique four-pointed star grille - a design borrowed from the Canadian Meteor - this car was built specifically for harsh local conditions at Ford's Geelong plant.
These Fords were the backbone of the outback, famously used by country
They
*Author’s note: Thanks to Craig, Neville, and Kevin for their patience and generosity. Their vehicles are not just machines, they are living pieces of history. To our readers who spotted the errors, consider this both a correction and a celebration. It’s the passion of true enthusiasts that keeps the spirit of classic cars alive.
American "disco-era" muscle
music legend Slim Dusty while he was on tour.
also launched the racing career of Australian titan Norm Beechey, who won his first major race in a Customline at Albert Park.
q The 2025 Schools Spectacular. Photo: NSW Arts Unit.
q Craig Dandeaux from Safety Beach with his 1967 Jaguar E-Type.
q Neville Curtis from Wingham with his 1978 Chevrolet Camaro.
q Kevin Mulroney from Melbourne with his 1958 Ford Customline Star Model.
Artists win place in Shared Practice
By Andrea FERRARI
THREE visual artists from the Coffs Coast are amongst 10 artists who have been selected to take part in Mid North Coast Shared Practice, a new 18-month artist development program delivered by Arts Mid North Coast.
Shared Practice supports emerging and mid-career visual artists through a program of mentorship, professional development workshops and peer exchange, culminating in a final group exhibition.
Designed specifically for regional artists, the initiative creates space for participants to deepen their practice, connect with peers and develop sustainable creative careers while remaining based on the Mid North Coast.
Lead mentor and artist Sara Bowen said she’s grateful for the opportunity to offer participants a breadth of perspective on what a creative practice can look like.
“It’s fantastic and also slightly nervewracking to be a mentor, but it does mean a lot professionally to be recognised as having accumulated enough experience to be able to share some of it with others,” Ms Bowen said.
Coffs Coast participant Tori Ann Donnelley told News Of The Area that being a part of the Shared Practice program means she will be able to work in a collaborative environment while learning from established artists and creating new works alongside her peers.
“I am looking forward to connecting and working with artists within the region,” she said.
“You never know, we might all become industry professionals one day and I think that is what makes this opportunity exciting and special.
“Personally, I love creating and I enjoy
being able to expand my practice, learn new skills and then hop into the studio and create.
“I am hoping to make good connections with fellow artists during this time and expand my practice.”
For Coffs Harbour artist Kelly Joy, being part of the Shared Practice Program “means a great deal" at this stage of her career.
“As a regional artist, opportunities for connection and meaningful dialogue with other creatives are incredibly valuable.
“I’m really looking forward to learning alongside peers, sharing experiences, and being part of a supportive creative community.
“I hope the program will help me gain clarity and momentum in my studio practice, particularly around a body of work exploring
the mother–child connection.
“I’m also excited to develop sustainable ways of working that I can carry forward and share with others through teaching and community-based creative spaces.”
Coffs Coast artist Kelly Finley has lived in the area for 18 years and managed a small florist shop in Sawtell for much of that time.
“Six years ago, I returned to painting and developed my practice at Sawtell Art Gallery,” she told NOTA.
“Shared Practice presents a strong opportunity to build skills and engage in structured collaboration with other regional artists.
“Access to mentorship and peer exchange will support both my creative development and professional growth, and I look forward
to contributing to the program and final group exhibition.”
The program will begin with the first professional development workshop held on Saturday, 18 April at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, bringing the selected artists together as a group for the first time.
It is being facilitated by Hey Mate, which was funded by a NAB Foundation Community Grant to run Creative Resilience Wellbeing Workshops in regional locations.
Shared Practice has been funded by the Australian Government through Creative Australia and is delivered in partnership with Yarrila Arts and Museum, Glasshouse Gallery, Nulla Nulla Regional Gallery, Saltwater Freshwater Arts and Nambucca Valley Phoenix.
Dolphin surgery a success
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS Coast Wildlife Sanctuary has confirmed the successful outcome of a surgical procedure for “Zippy”, a male Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin who was born at the sanctuary in 1988.
A world-class, international team of specialist marine veterinarians, anaesthetists, surgeons and animal care professionals came together in Coffs Harbour, travelling from across Australia and the United States to support the procedure and ensure the highest standard of care for Zippy.
Zippy underwent the planned procedure on 17 March, to monitor and treat a papilloma virus in his mouth that had developed into a sarcoma, a condition also seen in wild dolphin populations.
Surgeon Scott Magnuson said, “Dolphins don't use their tongue like we (humans) do for
eating or for speaking.
“They phonate from their blowhole, and their tongue is just used to swallow.
“We move the food around so we can chew.
“Dolphins don't chew their food.
“So, removing that part of the tongue and under the floor of the mouth has no impact on the function of the dolphin’s ability to eat or to be able to communicate.”
Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary Managing Director Tiga Cross said the outcome reflects both global collaboration and the dedication of the local team.
“Specialists were brought together from across the world, but this has been a longterm care journey,” she said.
“This procedure represents an important milestone for the Sanctuary and supports the continued development of advanced, worldclass care right here in Coffs Harbour.
“It’s a powerful reminder of what’s
q Zippy the dolphin undergoes surgery at The Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary.
possible when expertise, passion and community come together to care for marine life.
“Zippy is an extraordinary individual, and a beloved animal to locals and visitors alike.
“Every decision in his care has been guided by expert advice and his best interests, and we are very pleased with this outcome for Zippy.”
The procedure forms part of a carefully managed health plan, with Zippy continuing his recovery under close veterinary and animal care supervision.
All assessments and procedures were conducted in consultation with the Department of Primary Industries, the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA), and the NSW Veterinary Practitioners Board.
As a ZAA-accredited facility, the Sanctuary meets rigorous, independently assessed standards of animal welfare and care.
q Shared Practice participant, Kelly Joy.
q Shared Practice participant Tori Anne Donnelley. Photo: andthetreesphotography.
q Shared Practice participant Kelly Finlay.
No new mines but coal expansions given green light
By Tom WARK, AAP
COAL mine expansions are on the cards for at least another 25 years under NSW’s new mining road map at odds with its environment commission.
The NSW government announced its coal industry outlook for 2026-2050 on Thursday, saying it will no longer consider new coal mines but applications to extend existing mines will be
assessed.
NSW produces the second most amount of coal of any state behind Queensland, according to Geosciences Australia.
Emissions requirements will be a condition of any project expansions, the government says, but its own Net Zero Commission says
any move to expand coal production is at odds with environmental goals.
In December, the commission found any increase in coal mining activity would leave the state at odds with the Climate Change Act and the Paris Agreement.
The position sets firm
expectations on producers and the communities that rely on coal mining, Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said.
Regional communities who rely on mining for employment and trading partners who want commitments met can all gain confidence from the plan, the government says.
However, Greens MPs and environmental groups say it fails the climate test.
"This policy still allows coal production to grow, and that's completely incompatible with a safe climate," Greens coal spokeswoman Cate Faehrmann said.
The government has failed to impose any environmental restrictions on the nine expansions approved since the government took office in 2023, the Lock the Gate Alliance said.
"The NSW government is using semantics to mask the truth that coal project
Inquiry into community safety concludes
THE Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety has concluded its twoyear inquiry into community safety in regional and rural communities.
The Committee's final report, tabled on 19 March, makes 15 recommendations.
Committee Chair Edmond Atalla MP said he hopes that the inquiry will result in lasting change.
"Communities in regional NSW deserve to feel safe and supported,” Mr Atalla said.
“We need to continue planning for the future and investing in long-term solutions.”
Kempsey and Tamworth.
“People told us that funding place-based, community-led responses is the most effective way to respond to youth offending,” Mr Atalla said.
Youth Justice system, police resourcing, and training for police and Local Court magistrates.
approvals will continue as business as usual," head of research Georgina Woods said.
Only three of NSW's 37 operating coal mines have enforceable emissions limits, the Net Zero Commission found.
Stopping new coal mines was a welcome step but the continued acceptance of expansions was exposing residents to more climate harm, the Australian Conservation Foundation said.
"It's time to wind up all coal projects in NSW starting today and prepare for a renewable-powered net zero emissions future," campaigner Freja Leonard said.
The minerals sector welcomed support for mine expansions but NSW Minerals Council chief executive Stephen Galilee said blocking new mines placed a limit on future economic opportunities for the state. recommendations will help to do this."
people the support they need to thrive.
"We heard positive feedback on current initiatives during this inquiry.
By Andrea FERRARI
IT WAS all about “thank yous” at a meeting of Club Urunga manager Troy Gale and members of Urunga VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education for Women).
Throughout 2025, Club Urunga supported Urunga VIEW by inviting local and visiting patrons to chip in to various fundraisers.
“In December, Club Urunga had a fabulous Christmas tree which they used to raise funds for the education of Australian disadvantaged children, through Urunga VIEW’s support of the Smith Family,” VIEW spokeswoman Sharon
The inquiry visited ten different communities across regional NSW, including for hearings at Bourke, Broken Hill, Grainger told News Of The Area.
The report makes a number of recommendations relating to the organisation and oversight of funding arrangements, support for young people involved in the
"Keeping children engaged in education, safe in the evening, and supported during difficult times is vital,” Mr Atalla said.
“Programs that provide at-risk children with wraparound support and skills for life give young
Urunga VIEW’s ‘thank
In February, Mr Gale presented VIEW president Merridy Anderson and treasurer Maureen Cruickshank with a cheque for $1,500.
“A huge ‘thank you’ to Troy Gale, the Manager, and staff of Club Urunga,” Ms Grainger said.
“And to local organisations and people who supported us throughout 2025.”
Mr Gale told NOTA that he was proud to support the work of Urunga VIEW Club and The Smith Family.
“Giving back locally matters to us, and our members love supporting fundraisers that make a real difference for children and families in our community.”
Urunga VIEW welcomes all women, meeting monthly for lunch and raising money all year for The Smith Family.
“However, there are opportunities to expand and improve service delivery and availability in regional NSW to better support at-risk young people.
“Our hope is that the
The report also recommends that the NSW Government provides a progress report on the implementation of recommendations made by the Committee.
The inquiry's final report can be found on the Committee's webpage, along with the interim report tabled in May 2025, and evidence received throughout the inquiry.
q Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos (left) talks through the coal industry outlook for 2026-2050. Photo: Courtney Houssos MP.
q Club Urunga Manager Troy Gale presents to Urunga VIEW President Merridy Anderson and Treasurer Maureen Cruikshank.
What goes into your petrol pump price?
By Thomas O’KEEFE
GLOBAL events, most notably the closing of the Strait of Hormuz, have caused petrol and diesel prices to skyrocket in the last few weeks, reaching over $3 per litre.
As of Sunday 22 March 2026, crude oil prices are around US$122 per barrel – high by any standard, especially considering that US$100/barrel is both a historical and psychological threshold – but it means little to the suburban or regional motorist, who rightfully worries most about the price at the pump.
While petrol prices continue to rise on a daily basis, it is pertinent to consider the hidden costs built into the big board along the kerb.
Australia imports a staggering 90 percent of its liquid fuel needs, all of which are hit with an automatic federal ‘fuel excise’ – another
name for a tax – as soon as it leaves the supplier’s depot.
The fuel excise is recalculated every six months and is tied to the consumer price index to keep up with inflation, although in the relatively rare event that CPI decreases, the fuel excise does not also decrease, it just stays stationary until the next
rise.
The latest fuel excise recalculation was in February 2026, and the Australian Tax Office confirms that the fuel excise is now set at 52.6 cents per litre.
This means that every litre of fuel that comes into Australia is automatically 56.2c dearer, before it reaches
any retail service station.
At the servo, the pump price is, of course, at the discretion of those running the business, and will invariably pass on the excise entirely, as well as a 10 percent GST imposed by the Federal Government.
The GST is 10 percent of the pump price, inclusive of the excise carry-over, meaning that motorists pay a tax on a tax.
A standard modern family SUV (Rav4, X-Trail etc) has a petrol tank up to 60L.
So, at the current price of $2.50/Litre, including an excise of 52.6c/Litre and 10 percent GST, a driver may pay up to $150 in fuel, plus $33.72 in excise, then another $18.37 in GST (calculated at 10 percent including the excise), for a grand total of $202.09.
According to the federal Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO), “[The fuel tax] is one of the oldest taxes in Australia, applying since Federation in
1901.”
“Since 1992, fuel tax has been a general revenueraising tax with only a minor link with the Australian Government’s overall level of road funding,” explains the PBO.
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA), the self-described “peak organisation for motoring clubs” in the country, claims that “Australian motorists paid an estimated $15.71 billion in net fuel excise in 2023-24, but, over the decade to 202223, only 57 percent of fuel excise was reinvested in land transport projects.”
The AAA calls for every cent of fuel excise to be reinvested into land transport projects.
It is entirely possible for the Australian Government to lower the excise, with the most recent precedent occurring in the Budget for 2022-23, when then-Treasurer Josh
Technology transforming fire responses
RURAL firefighters in NSW are utilising new technology helping to detect fires earlier, improve situational awareness and strengthen communications in remote areas.
AI-powered camera systems, thermal-imaging drones and expanded satellite connectivity are transforming how emergency services detect, assess and manage bush fires – giving crews earlier warnings, clearer intelligence and better onground coordination.
In the past year alone high-definition cameras have detected nearly 4,000 fires, giving agencies critical early warnings and helping crews make faster and more informed decisions.
The cameras have played a key role in a range of recent
incidents across the state, including the early detection of fires prior to Triple Zero (000) calls in the Riverina late last year.
“When fighting bush fires, the value of early detection and accurate situational awareness cannot be overstated,” Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Trent Curtin said.
“The ability to access realtime imagery, particularly in remote and high-risk areas, helps us build a clearer picture of fire behaviour and conditions as incidents unfold.
“Projects like these ensure the RFS can continue to adapt and evolve in support of our volunteers and the communities they protect.”
The drone capability of the RFS also continues to be
expanded, with more than 50 trained pilots now positioned across the state.
Equipped with thermal imaging, drones provide live vision of firegrounds and help identify hot spots after a main fire has passed.
They can be rapidly deployed to emerging incidents or areas of concern, giving crews a clearer, realtime picture of conditions and improving safety for firefighters on the ground.
This bush fire season has marked a major step forward in modernising frontline communications, building on recommendations from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry to strengthen the RFS fleet.
Vehicles are being upgraded with enhanced connectivity, including an on-going roll-out of satelliteenabled systems (Vehicle as a Node technology) and thousands of trucks equipped with Mobile Data Terminals to improve crews’
Frydenberg (Morrison Liberal Government) announced a temporary six-month halving of the excise.
“Events abroad are pushing up the cost of living at home: higher fuel, food and shipping costs are increasing inflation and stretching household budgets,” Mr Frydenberg said in 2022.
Practically speaking that temporary excise halving saved Australians 22c/L every time they filled up, equating to “around $700 saved over the six months by a family with two cars filling up once a week.”
“Events abroad” referred to the Russian war in Ukraine, which was new at the time, as well as the jump in fuel demands as the world emerged from COVID-19 lockdowns.
It is also worth noting that 2022 was a federal election year, and 2023 was a NSW state election year.
q RFS volunteers now have improved access to real-time imagery, particularly in remote and high-risk areas.
communication, connectivity and safety in remote and disaster-impacted areas.
Since the season began on 1 October, the RFS has responded to more than 8,750
bush and grass fires, as broad areas of the state continue to experience drying conditions.
q Petrol has now skyrocketed past $3 a litre in NSW. Photo: Thomas O'Keefe.
q Footage captured by an AI-powered camera system on a watch tower. Photos: supplied.
q Drones provide volunteers with live vision of firegrounds.
Mission Australia opens 25th Youth Survey
MISSION Australia’s annual Youth Survey is open now and the national charity is urging NSW young people aged 14-19 to share their views in the largest survey of its kind in the country.
Celebrating its 25th year in 2026, the Youth Survey gives young people the chance to express themselves and share their opinions on the issues impacting the country, their aspirations and insights into their schooling and home life.
In 2025, more than 4,000 NSW young people completed the survey,
naming cost of living (66 percent), mental health (31 percent), climate change and the environment (25 percent), and housing and homelessness (23 percent), as the most important issues in Australia today.
Mission Australia State Director NSW and ACT Di Kapera said the Youth Survey is a unique opportunity to understand what young people across the state are going through.
are often missing or ignored,” Ms Kapera said.
“In 2025, for the second year in a row, cost of living was the number one issue of concern for NSW respondents.
“Young people told us that the high cost of housing and everyday essentials was impacting them and their families.
on the table, with many parents making sacrifices so their children don’t miss out.”
Results of the survey will be published in November and are shared with government, nongovernment organisations, local councils, schools and the public.
“We aim to get responses that span a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and locations so that the survey reflects the diversity of our state.”
neighbourhoods that would impact young people’s lives, and barriers to participating in community events.
Youth Survey 2026 is open from March 19 to August 14 and takes about 20 minutes to complete.
“We expect that this year’s survey will once again reflect the fact that many families around the country are doing it tough.
“They’re struggling to find affordable housing, pay the bills and put food
Small business survey opens
THE Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) has launched its 2026 Small Business Perspectives Survey, focused exclusively on small businesses operating in regional, rural and remote Australia.
The national research initiative aims to capture the lived experience of businesses beyond major cities, ensuring regional conditions are clearly reflected in national policy discussions throughout
“We’ve been doing the Youth Survey for 25 years now, and it continues to give us valuable data on a group whose perspectives 2026.
The annual survey gathers insights across business performance and outlook, workforce and skills, housing and childcare access, health services, digital connectivity, banking access, energy and insurance costs, disaster impacts and small business wellbeing.
COSBOA CEO Skye Cappuccio said strengthening the regional evidence base is critical to ensuring national reform conversations
are underpinned by real experience from across the country.
“Running a small business in regional Australia can be fundamentally different to operating in a capital city,” Ms Cappuccio said.
“Workforce shortages, constrained housing supply, service gaps, connectivity limitations, disaster recovery and the cost of doing business can have amplified impacts in regional and remote communities.
Future still bright
By George CLARKE, AAP
ACUTELY aware that Australia's golden generation is nearing its end, Joe Montemurro has vowed to look to the future as he fights to ensure the Matildas remain in contention for silverware.
Montemurro had less than a 10 month lead-in to Saturday's Women's Asian Cup final in Sydney where Australia fell to an admirable 1-0 loss to Japan that exposed the fine margins of international football.
On another night Australia would have finished the chances that Japan gifted them and the Matildas would have ended a 16-year wait for a trophy.
Montemurro emerges with credit, given how quickly he has implemented his blueprint on a squad which has barely had any training time together under his guidance.
Against Japan, the Matildas were not overawed and held their gloves up against opponents who had ruthlessly dominated their five games en route to the final.
So how much stronger could Australia be at next year's World Cup in Brazil?
"I suppose the whole idea is going into games with our ideas, not so much being
scared of the opposition," Montemurro said.
"That's what I'm trying to instill, to say 'we're comfortable in the way we do things'. That should be our base.
"I'll tinker with things as we go but the important thing is that we shouldn't be overanalysing the opposition, because we're confident in what we're doing."
Montemurro is adamant the talent is there for Australia to remain competitive even if an established cohort headlined by Sam Kerr, Katrina Gorry, Steph Catley, Alanna Kennedy and Emily van Egmond will be the wrong side of 35 at the next Asian Cup in four years time.
Montemurro has already shown faith in Kaitlyn Torpey and Winonah Heatley at this tournament, while Amy Sayer, who didn't play in Saturday's final, appears ready to be a regular starter in Brazil next year.
"I know Courtney Nevin made a couple of mistakes (against South Korea), but she's playing at Malmo in the Champions League," Montemurro said.
"We've got that next core with Mary Fowler, with Kyra (Cooney-Cross), with Ellie (Carpenter). Wini Heatley has become a world-class defender in three games, so
“Data from the survey is utilised by a variety of organisations, educators and government stakeholders to inform policies, research and the creation of programs and services that assist young people,” Ms Kapera said.
“If national decisions are going to work for small business, they must reflect the realities faced outside metropolitan centres. That starts with credible, on-theground data.”
The findings will form part of COSBOA’s annual Small Business Perspectives Report and inform its engagement with government, regulators and policymakers throughout 2026.
“This survey ensures that when we engage with decision-makers, we do so with independently gathered data drawn directly from
The survey focuses on a wide range of topics, including questions on mental health and wellbeing, sources of support and community connections, housing and financial situation, climate change, study and work.
This year’s survey will include some new areas of focus, including questions on the teen social media ban, the changes to their
business owners themselves.
“Regional small businesses sustain local economies and communities across Australia. Their experience must be clearly represented in the national policy conversation,” Ms Cappuccio said.
COSBOA says broad participation across industries and geographic regions will be essential to building a robust and representative picture of regional small business.
The survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Respondents can complete the survey online, either through arrangements with participating schools or groups or individually through Mission Australia’s website. Go to www. missionaustralia.com.au/ youthsurvey.
Responses are confidential and independently managed by research agency Survey Matters.
The 2026 COSBOA Small Business Perspectives Survey closes on 30 April 2026.
Regional small business owners can participate at https://research. surveymatters.com.au/n/ L4DcGDl?ver=1734032926.
Founded in 1977, and incorporated in 1979, the COSBOA is a member based not-for-profit organisation exclusively representing the interests of small businesses.
SPORT
it's exciting."
Depth, however, remains an issue for the Matildas.
Which is why Montemurro also wants to have greater involvement in the tactical direction of Australia's junior national
teams to ensure would-be Matildas are ready to make an instant impact at senior level.
"We're trying to just spread this little Joe Montemurro cult, if you want to call it that, all over
the national team spectrum," Montemurro said.
"The thing for me is to make sure that our mentality is this type of football, the way we want to play.
"We want to dominate games, obviously, because
that's what the best teams in the world are doing. So can we dominate games like Japan?
"Probably not, but we can find a way where we can have control with the ball, but also find ways without it."
q Sam Kerr symbolised the Matildas' misery but their coach is confident about the future. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
OPINION & LETTERS
Dorin's Drawings
By Manny WOOD
Toxic love, testamentary obligation
WILLIAM died at 48 without a will, leaving an estate valued at $360,000.
His assets included a small rural property, a motor vehicle and minimal cash.
Under intestacy rules, the estate passed to his sister, Amelia, with whom he had limited contact.
William had, however, been in a long but volatile relationship with Kristina for almost a decade.
Their relationship was marked by periods of living together, frequent conflict, police involvement and repeated separations.
Kristina often left the home with nowhere stable to go, sometimes staying in motels, on couches or in her car before returning.
Despite the instability, there were moments of connection. William proposed to Kristina, gave her jewellery and told her the property was “her home”.
When living together, she contributed by cooking, cleaning and maintaining the home while relying on him for accommodation.
The relationship ultimately ended several months before William’s passing.
Both were subject to apprehended violence orders and were living separately at the time he died. Kristina did not learn of his death until several weeks later.
Following his death, Kristina brought a family provision claim.
Although she was not entitled under intestacy, as no de facto relationship existed at the time of William’s death, she argued that she had been partly dependent on William for many years, particularly for housing and had been the person closest to him over the last decade.
She also relied on her financial hardship, lack of assets and dependence on Centrelink.
Amelia opposed the claim, arguing the relationship had ended and was characterised by what she described as very ‘toxic behaviour’.
She submitted that William had no obligation to Kristina, given they were no longer together at the time of his death.
The Court accepted that the relationship was troubled but enduring.
It found that Kristina had been partly dependent on William and was someone who would naturally be expected to receive testamentary provision.
Her financial need was significant, while Amelia’s circumstances were comparatively secure.
The Court awarded Kristina the entirety of the estate, subject to costs, effectively displacing William’s sister.
Thank you to Ellysha Laklem for her assistance with this column.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
By Paul DORIN
Verse of the week
John 12: 32 & 33
By Lynne MILES
"Predicting His death Jesus said, "But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself." He said this to show the kind of death He was going to die."
All aboard the space elevator
By Dave RENEKE
IMAGINE stepping into an elevator, pressing the “up” button, and eight days later stepping out into space.
No rocket roar. No fiery launch. No crushing G-forces. Just a ride straight up.
It sounds unbelievable, yet the idea of a space elevator is beginning to look surprisingly real.
The concept is simple but astonishing.
Picture a cable about 100,000 kilometres long stretching from Earth to an orbiting platform far out in space.
Special vehicles called “climbers” would travel up and down the cable carrying cargo, satellites and eventually people.
In effect, it would be like a vertical railway linking Earth with space.
For decades this idea belonged firmly in the world of science fiction. However, some scientists believe the technology could actually work.
With the right materials and engineering, space elevators could become reality within a couple of decades.
If that happens, the impact could be enormous.
Launching objects into orbit using rockets currently costs thousands of dollars per kilogram.
A space elevator could slash those costs dramatically, possibly to less than US$50 per kilogram.
That would make putting satellites into space far cheaper and could even open the door to routine human travel beyond Earth.
The biggest challenge is the cable itself. It must be unbelievably strong and incredibly light, strong enough to stretch tens of thousands of kilometres into space without
On the Couch
DEAR Jasminda,
snapping under its own weight.
For many years no material on Earth could do the job.
Then scientists discovered something remarkable: carbon nanotubes.
These are tiny cylinders made of carbon atoms arranged in sheets similar to graphite, the same substance found in pencil leads.
Despite their microscopic size, carbon nanotubes are amazingly tough.
They are flexible, extremely light and up to one hundred times stronger than steel.
With materials like these, what once sounded like a “Jack and the Beanstalk” fantasy could become a real transportation system for space travellers.
The cable itself might be only about one metre wide and thinner than a sheet of paper, yet capable of supporting loads of up to thirteen tonnes.
Even more astonishing is how the structure would stay upright.
The cable would be anchored near Earth’s equator and stretch far beyond geostationary orbit.
At the far end, a huge counterweight, possibly even a captured asteroid, would keep the cable pulled tight.
Because the Earth is spinning, the entire structure would remain stretched outward, much like the string of a yo-yo when it is swung around.
Once the system was operating, electromagnetic climbers would glide along the cable carrying passengers and cargo between Earth and a transfer station high above the planet.
Instead of explosive launches, reaching orbit might one day feel more like taking a very long elevator ride.
Building such an enormous structure might sound impossible, but engineers have a surprisingly simple strategy inspired by bridge building.
First, a satellite would deploy a very thin cable down toward Earth.
moment, I could have bought myself a pair of Balenciaga Speed Trainers.
All that pales into insignificance, though, when you enter the domain of Marketplace Mobland. This is the space of shady deals done behind abandoned scout halls in the dead of night.
By JASMINDA
I PUT a collectible item on Facebook Marketplace.
A man offered to buy it.
He also paid a deposit, so I marked it as sold.
He said he couldn't attend the first pick up date, then said he was sick, and now he wants to meet me at a halfway point with cash.
Nigel W.
Dear Nigel,
It appears you have moved from Marketplace to its darker and more sinister brother: Marketplace Mobland.
Surviving Marketplace is a hard enough task - a zone where the normal rules of engagement don't apply.
Sally from Sage and Light comes across all vibey and spiritual on her profile, until you have to negotiate a fair-priced bulk smudging stick sale with her.
It's akin to negotiations on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Selling is even more fraught.
Our local Vinnies has become the frequent beneficiary of my failed Marketplace negotiations. Some buyers have an innate ability to wear sellers down.
Most recently, my exchanges over a pair of spanking-new Nikes morphed into chess-level wheeling and dealing.
Beaten down, annoyed, but willing to accept a low-ball offer, I agreed to a price.
The purchaser then asked if I could meet her at a more convenient location.
“Forget it,” I said.
With the cost of petrol at the
The buyer arrives in a hotted up Benz with NOCOPS number plates.
In the back of his vehicle, you make out two shadowy accomplices in balaclavas.
The buyer (Murray during initial messages, but now Muz in conversations you suspect have taken place on a burner phone) emerges from his car.
You notice he has one hand clutching a brown paper bag, the other is twitching in his pocket. Slowly, he ambles towards you, throws his cigarette butt in the dirt and grinds it with the heel of his cap-toe shoe.
“We do this on the count of three,” Muz says.
And, on three, Muz hands you the bag, and you hand over a Labubu doll worth six-months' of diesel. Forlornly, you head back to your car.
The deal is done. Or is it?
Seller's remorse creeps in.
What will you say to your daughter Sophie?
Have you sold your soul on Marketplace Mobland?
You turn and start to run towards the Benz.
One of the goons steadies a rifle at your face.
“It's name is Baba, you yell, but your scream is lost in the screech of the Benz's spinning wheels.
Later, in your driveway, you drag the cash out of its bag.
In true mob form, it's a wad of counterfeit.
You see your daughter at the screen door.
“Daddy,” she cries, “I can't find Baba”.
May this be a lesson to you, Nigel.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
q The concept of a space elevator is simple but astonishing. Photo: supplied, Dave Reneke.
Then robotic climbers would crawl up the cable, attaching additional strands each time they travelled.
Gradually the cable would grow thicker and stronger until it could handle heavy loads.
Early experiments have already begun.
Researchers have even held serious workshops at NASA to study the idea.
What once sounded like pure fantasy is now being discussed as
a genuine engineering challenge.
Science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke was once asked when such a thing might finally be built. His reply became famous: “About fifty years after people stop laughing.”
It seems people may finally have stopped laughing.
One day the journey to space might begin with nothing more dramatic than pressing the “up” button in an elevator. See Dave’s website: www.davidreneke.com.
Council going against the wishes of the majority
DEAR News Of The Area,
I HAVE lived in Coffs Harbour for 40 years and enjoyed the Jetty Foreshores both for family events as well as with visitors who drop in regularly.
Following the last City of Coffs Harbour Council meeting, I congratulate Councillor Judge
for being the voice of reason in enumerating all the benefits we enjoy as a community without the proposed development at the Jetty Foreshores.
This was very passionately and very eloquently supported by Councillor Cassell who reminded us that 69 percent of voters showed opposition to the plan in
the Council-held survey during the local government election, and then 61 percent opposed it in subsequent community engagement.
Councillor Amos proved to be an experienced and caring member who repeatedly brought Council to attention.
During the meeting, Councillor
Listen to the people
DEAR News Of The Area,
I NOTE that Local Member Gurmesh Singh has been pre-
selected by the Nationals to contest the 2027 State Elections (NOTA 20 Feb 2026).
I note also that Gurmesh stated
that he would "listen to the people of the Coffs Coast and act in their best interests".
Well it seems that he did not
The answer is simple
DEAR News Of The Area,
IN reply to Steve Dobbyn’s question in his letter to NOTA on 20 March, “How did we get to this”, the answer is simple.
We cut down too many trees and have taken far too long to realise the outstanding natural and cultural heritage values of our forests we are losing.
An overview of a few of the signals over the last half century that we did not adequately respond to includes:
The World Heritage Convention, adopted in 1972 for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, as an international treaty which led to the establishment
of World Heritage Sites, with the primary goals of nature conservation and the preservation and security of cultural properties.
In 1992 the High Court of Australia delivered the landmark Mabo decision on Indigenous land rights, that swept away the “legal fiction” of terra nullius (meaning “land belonging to no one”) that had been used to justify British colonisation.
Also in 1992, the Australian and State Governments (with the exception of Queensland) signed a National Forest Policy aimed at protection of wilderness, old-growth forests and threatened species as well as supporting a sustainable timber industry.
Who will pay?
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE proposed Jetty Foreshore revitalisation plan continues to be a contentious impasse.
Councillors lodged two separate Notices of Motion (NOM) at the Council Meeting held on Thursday, 19 March, seeking more public information and transparency and calling for Council to not support the proposed project.
Predictably the motions were lost, with five councillors voting against and three in favour.
The Coffs Harbour community deserves to be fully informed about what the costs are, what contributions we will be required to make to the project, and how
they will be covered before we can properly review the impact of the proposed foreshore land rezoning.
Let’s look at the information made available to the community.
Documents released under Freedom of Information show that the State Government and Treasurer, Daniel Mookhey, have requested a cost neutral option for the project, therefore funding it will be at no cost to the State. The State Government also states in its Refined Masterplan that the “costs of delivering public open space, civil infrastructure, community spaces and additional parking will not be met by the proceeds of development”.
If the State Government is not
In 1984, the NSW Government successfully nominated rainforest areas it had recently protected for listing as World Heritage areas but other World Heritage protection, such as for koalas and outstanding examples of our eucalypt forests themselves is well overdue.
The recent Wild Cattle Creek Land and Environment Court judgement shows a welcome, though much belated response, to these national and world wide shifts.
Enough to get us out of this, Mr Dobbyns?
Well, unfortunately not, according to the 196 countries who signed onto the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
investing money, and the plan they have developed doesn't generate enough money to create the public improvements such as the promised playgrounds, parklands and parking, then what is the Coffs Harbour community actually getting from this project besides loss of open space and improved parklands? And how much will it cost us?
The Government must be transparent with the community about how they are proposing to make this development cost neutral.
The Government has previously flagged that their preferred option for generating more money from the project is by increasing the heights of any apartment blocks.
Are they planning to get the additional funds by increasing the number of tourism and residential apartments? How high will those
Amos was not given the usual rights when he seconded a motion by Cr Judge.
Threats of throwing out members of the public also came from the chair.
It is often said that "we get what we vote for" and "evil thrives when good sits on its hands".
This must be remembered listen to the 33,161 residents who voiced their displeasure at the last local government elections in regard to the proposed Jetty Foreshores developments.
Of course Gurmesh could always change his stance but if he chooses not to, then he can adopted in 2021.
It commits member countries to protect or conserve 30 percent of their land and seas by 2030, prioritising areas of high biodiversity value, adequately sampling the full range of existing ecosystems, and creating well connected networks of reserves.
Co-committing to reduce biodiversity loss, restore 30 percent of degraded ecosystems, halt species extinction and minimize the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.
Australia is one of 196 countries that committed to the 23 targets to halt and reverse nature loss this decade under the Framework.
All our States have signed up too!
This framework, I suggest if adhered to, is a brave step towards recovery from where we are.
apartments need to be to make it financially sustainable?
Or does the Coffs community lose the carrot they presented to us of promised improvements to parklands and recreational facilities?
In an Instagram post on 15 November 2024, Mayor Nikki Williams suggested that the costing for the development was as much as $150,000,000 and said that Council cannot complete a project of this scale without considerable rate rises or drastic cuts to vital services in our LGA.
Where is the money coming from to pay for the promised playgrounds, parklands and parking for the proposed Jetty precinct development when the NSW Government said it will not pay?
We all don’t want a dust bowl
Coffs baseball player to represent Australia
By Aiden BURGESS
OSCAR Saggus has been chosen to represent his country.
The Coffs Coast baseball player has been selected to represent Australia as part of the Australia Expos team on an upcoming tour to the United States.
The 15-year-old will take his place in the Australian junior side for the tour in June and July,
which will see the national team take on high-level American teams in Hawaii and Los Angeles.
The young gun currently plays for the Sawtell Dodgers in the Coffs Harbour Baseball Association A-grade competition, as both a catcher and infielder.
The Australian junior selectee was looking forward to mixing it against the top-class American talent.
“It’s going to be tough competition, and I’m going to give it my all and hopefully learn a lot from them, and try to help
make myself a better player,” he said.
“And hopefully catch the eye of the scouts as I hope to play college baseball one day.”
A current Sawtell Dodgers teammate will be accompanying him on the US trip.
“Michael Crossland will be taking me over as he’s the Expos team manager,” he said.
“He’s been a good mentor for me, as have my other Dodgers teammates.”
The St Louis Cardinals fan explained why he loved playing
as councillors at elections often state they are listening, but going against the wishes of over 60 percent of its residents demonstrates we cannot trust them.
Regards, Jay RUTHNAM, Coffs Harbour.
be assured that 33,161 residents will not be placing a number one against his name on the 2027 ballot paper.
Regards Jeff CLANCY, Coffs Coast.
The relatively small area of hardwood plantation within the proposed Great Koala National Park, resulting at least in part, from a number of land use mistakes, will struggle.
It will not be helped by declining markets and increasing competition from alternative products being produced at scale in other major plantation investment areas.
Throughout much of their extent the “plantations” are providing valuable habitat and connectivity for koalas, a threatened species of outstanding international value for science and culture.
This habitat is removed once the plantations are clearfelled, sprayed and replanted with blackbutt.
Regards, Ashley LOVE, Coffs Harbour
and fenced-off land but what are we risking with this deal?
Will we just get 450 mostly luxury apartments and nothing for the community?
Or we will end up with even more units and taller buildings on and overlooking our foreshore just to get a few promised improvements?
Mayor Nikki Williams says that the City of Coffs Harbour Council is sitting at the negotiating table with the NSW Government.
If that’s the case, they need to start asking questions and get the most up-to-date breakdown of the Government’s costings and how those costs will be covered and convey this to the community.
It’s time to call for pause.
Regards, Fran STEPHENSON, Coffs Harbour.
the pivotal position of catcher.
“You get to control the field and tell everyone what to do, it’s like being a captain,” he said.
Before heading to the US, Oscar will line up for the Far North Coast side at next month’s Junior League State Championships in Sydney.
To help support the costs of the trip, Oscar’s family and local community have been organising a number of fundraisers.
q Oscar Saggus with the Steve Lee Memorial Award.
Dual living done right
Address: 5 Mountain View Court, Bonville
Price: $1,250,000
Beds: 5, Bath: 3, Car: 2
Land size: 528.6 sqm
NESTLED in the sought-after Bonville enclave, 5 Mountain View Court captures the essence of harmonious family living combined with a rare touch of independence.
This impressive residence welcomes you with a striking timber entry door, immediately setting the tone for what lies within.
Step to the left and discover a cosy, carpeted loungeroom-perfect for unwinding with the familywith double blinds and a ceiling fan ensuring yearround comfort.
Undoubtedly, the heart of the home is an expansive open-plan living, dining, and kitchen zone, where tiled floors and double blinds offer both style and functionality.
This inviting space is bathed in natural light and enjoys tranquil views of the surrounding trees, creating a peaceful sanctuary for everyday living.
The dining area seamlessly transitions to a covered outdoor entertaining area, making alfresco gatherings a breeze.
True to its promise as a chef's dream, the contemporary kitchen features a striking black waterfall stone benchtop, ample space for breakfast stools, and a generous walk-in pantry. High-quality Westinghouse appliances, including a dishwasher,
five-burner gas cooktop, and electric oven, are sure to delight the most passionate home cooks.
Accommodation is thoughtfully zoned to provide privacy for all.
Two bedrooms, each with plush carpet, double blinds, ceiling fan lights, and built-in robes, share a large main bathroom equipped with a toilet, shower, and vanity.
The primary bedroom,
positioned at the rear, is a refined parents' retreat with a walk-in robe, and a stylish ensuite boasting a black vanity, shower, and toilet.
Bedroom four, situated at the front, also offers comfort and convenience, ideal for guests or teenagers seeking their own space or it could be used for the home office.
Practical features abound, with a double lock-up garage (remote and
internal entry), a wellappointed laundry with ample storage, and hallway linen cupboard.
The property is equipped with ducted air conditioning throughout, NBN connectivity, solar power, and a modern gas hot water system for maximum liveability.
Unique to this home is its separate, studio accommodation-perfect for
multi-generational living, a teen retreat, or rental income.
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LOCALSPORT
Coffs Coast sides impress at Challenge Cup
TWO Coffs Coast women’s teams have enjoyed success at the 2026 Challenge Cup, with Urunga and Corindi Red Rock bringing home the glory in their respective divisions.
The always-dangerous Urunga Raiders took out the open women’s division in style, defeating a powerful Macleay Valley Rangers side 2-0 in a tightly-contested final.
In the Masters Women six-a-side competition, Corindi Red Rock proved too strong for hosts the Nambucca Strikers,
prevailing 5-2 in the final.
Coffs Coast sides also came close in both men’s competitions.
The travelling West Pymble edged out the Northern Storm to take the open men’s final 1-0.
The Storm created chances, but West Pymble’s defence stood firm to secure the narrow victory.
A night prior, the Coffs Coast Tigers fell agonisingly short in the men’s over-35s, going down to the Macleay Valley Rangers 5-4 on penalties.
the
Hosted over the weekend by the Nambucca Strikers Football Club, the threeday Challenge Cup held at Coronation Park in Nambucca Heads brought together teams from across the Mid North Coast and beyond.
High quality football and good sportsmanship was on show throughout, despite high temperatures on Saturday and Sunday.
The Strikers committee congratulated all teams involved for “another fun and successful weekend”.
and West
“We would also like to offer our thanks to the committee and organisers involved in making this such a successful event,” a committee spokesperson said.
“From the grounds crew, the canteen volunteers, logistical problems solvers and all involved in any way for making this year's Challenge Cup another successful event.
“This annual fundraiser helps pay for new equipment and keeps our rego fees down, which ultimately helps us achieve our ultimate goal of as many Nambucca Strikers players as possible playing the game we all love.”
Karangi Public School makes a splash
By Kate PYE
KARANGI Public School
students are heading to Sydney to compete in the PSSA State Carnival at Homebush on Tuesday 28 April.
The team will race in the Earl McGee Relay, an event for small schools where competitors can be any age from eight to 13 and of any gender.
The team comprises four girls, Georgia, Evie, Lacey, and Sara from Years 4, 5, and 6, who are full of excitement and determination.
What makes this
achievement even more remarkable is that three of the students are not regular swimmers; they excel in running and athletics.
The one student who does swim, primarily competes at Nippers rather than in lap swimming.
“To see our students reach this level of competition, especially those who aren’t regular swimmers, is a testament to their resilience and courage,” said Principal Paula Buttenshaw.
“For a little school, we really have packed a punch in the swimming arena.”
Attending the carnival
will involve travel and accommodation costs, so the school community is supporting the team through fundraising.
Karangi Public School, just a 10-minute drive from Coffs Harbour, is a Kindergarten to Year 6 coeducational primary school.
“The most wonderful thing about our small but mighty school is the opportunities for every student,” said Ms Buttenshaw.
“Whether in sport, creative arts, or academic pursuits, there is something
for everyone.
“Our students are curious, friendly, and
caring, and our teachers are dedicated to supporting each child to do their best.”
The school is situated on Gumbaynggirr Country in the Orara Valley.
q The women’s final between the Urunga Raiders and Macleay Valley Rangers was hotly contested. Photos: David Wigley/North Coast Football.
q Action from
Northern Storm
Pymble men’s final. Photos: David Wigley/North Coast Football.
q Georgia McGuire, Sara Clarke, Lacey McGuire and Evie Rice.
q The girls after their qualifying swim.
Coffs Oztag teams take on state’s finest
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour senior OzTag teams have taken on the state’s finest at home, during the 2026 NSW Senior State Oztag Championships in Coffs Harbour.
Coffs Harbour Cavaliers senior representative teams took on visiting teams from across the state over three big days of top-class play at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.
Coffs Harbour Cavaliers players competed in five divisions; Women’s Opens,
Women’s 27s, Mixed 20s, Mixed Opens, and Men’s 40s.
The Cavaliers Men’s 40s and Mixed 20s teams both
made the quarter finals of their respective competitions.
the Mixed 20s were bested by
Coffs Coast players Wayne Cowgill, Dave Evans, Shane
Geary, and Brian Hopwood were also part of the Far North Coast Barracudas team that won the Men’s 60s title.
Far
Coffs featherweight wins No1 ranking
By Andrea FERRARI
FEATHERWEIGHT Mixed
Martial Arts (MMA) fighter
Chris Power from Coffs Harbour is now ranked No. 1 in Australia and New Zealand after winning Saturday night’s Eternal MMA 104 fight on the Gold Coast.
Chris fought Ayden Todoroff from Base MMA in Perth, who won amateur fighter of the year in 2025 and was ranked #2 featherweight and #1 lightweight in Australia and New Zealand.
Featherweight champion Chris won with a D'Arce choke in the 59th second of round one, taking his undefeated record to 7 wins - 0 losses.
Eternal announced Chris as "The Fighting Pride of the Mid North Coast".
Chris trains at Coffs Combat Academy under coach Shane Cassidy.
“The lead-up to the fight went really well, everything went according to plan with dieting and training,” Shane told News Of The Area.
“We had a gameplan which Chris chose not to follow.
“He saw an opportunity in the opening seconds of the fight and took it, and it was the right move.”
North Coast Football’s 2026 preseason trials. From 1pm in Boambee, Coffs Harbour, Orara, and Toormina.
Association’s junior season at Vost Park Netball Courts.
Sunday, 29 March
North Coast Football’s 2026 preseason trials. From 1pm in Woolgoolga.
Golf
Sawtell Golf Club’s Medley 4BBB Individual
Stableford. Monday, 30 March
Basketball
Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s men’s summer season at Sportz Central. Grand finals. From 6.15pm.
Tuesday, 31 March
Basketball
Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s women's
summer season at Sportz Central. Grand finals. From 6.15pm.
Golf
Sawtell Golf Club’s Medley Stableford.
Wednesday, 1 April
Golf
Sawtell Golf Club’s Stroke/Putting Match Play Qualifier Medal 3.
Coffs basketballers earn finals spots
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Coast basketball teams have booked semi-final spots during the final round of Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior summer season at Sportz Central.
Friday, 27 March 2026
Men’s
Men’s A-Grade minor premiers We Can’t Dunk finished the regular season with an 83-51 win against Can’t Catch a Breath.
Jayden Dean top scored for the winners with 30
The Men’s 40s were defeated by Penrith, while points.
The Chihuahuas had a 51-45 win against Narwhals Stingers, Justin McMillan and Blake Rawlinson were joint top scorers with 17 points.
White Chocolate were also winners in the final
round beating All Washed Up 78-62.
Joe Greer top scored with 28 points.
Men’s social competition minor premiers The Bricklayers edged out Walsh’s Plumbing, 33-32.
Women’s Women’s social competition minor premiers Mantas Mermaids finished the regular season undefeated with a 58-14 win against Mantas Mystics. Lisa Austin top scored
Netball
Coffs Harbour Netball
Association’s winter senior competition at Vost Park Netball Courts. From 6.35pm.
Thursday, 2 April
Netball
Coffs Harbour Netball
Association’s mixed senior competition at Vost Park Netball Courts. From 6.35pm.
with 18 points for the winners.
Ring Ins had a 41-22 win against Dunkin’
The Mighty Ducks were also winners in the final round, beating The Young Ones 36-24. Momoko Maeda had a game high 14 points.
Cronulla.
North Coast beat Kiama by 2-1 to win their grand final.
Disorderly, Lisa Medway top scored with 13 points.
q Coffs Harbour Cavaliers Men’s 40s team.
q Coffs Harbour Cavaliers Mixed 20s team.
q Chris in the cage after the win with his coaches Shane Cassidy and Daniel Almeida.
q Chris Power gets the winning submission.
q The fight is declared over.
q Celebrating the win.
Nana Glen go back-to-back
By Aiden BURGESS
NANA Glen Lizards are once again the kings of Coffs Coast cricket after winning Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s first-grade premiership for the second straight season.
The Lizards successfully defended their title with a dominant 95-run win against Sawtell Cricket Club, in their grand final at Fitzroy Oval.
Nana Glen also became the first team to beat Sawtell this season.
The Lizards set a total of 8/234 from 80 overs in the two-day season decider, after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Brodie Bartlett top scored with 50, Nicklaus Stanlan-Velt was next best with 34, Daniel
Craig scored 29, Tom Craig contributed 27, and Jesse Ferrett finished on 27 not out.
Richie Gallichan was the pick of the Sawtell bowlers with a top spell of 5-95 from 32 overs.
Chasing 235 for the premiership victory, a tough start for the minor premiers had Sawtell reeling after losing four wickets in the first 12 overs.
Flynn Taylor (48 runs) and Toby Bailey (34) provided some fight, but a devastating bowling performance from Nana Glen saw them bowl out Sawtell for 139 in the 60th over.
Josh Bartlett was the pick of the Lizards bowlers taking 3-32 from 17 overs.
In a true team bowling effort, Jesse Ferrett took
2-47 from 15 overs, captain Jonathon Paff took 2-16 from nine overs, Ty Adams took 2-3 from 1.2 overs, and Riley Dagger had an economical spell of 1-8 from seven overs.
Josh Bartlett was named man of the match for the second straight year.
He knew how much it would take to defeat a side like Sawtell.
“We knew it wasn’t going to be easy and that it would take more than individual efforts to win,” he said.
“They are a class side and showed that all season, so we knew it had to be a massive team effort from everyone, which it was.
“It was just a matter of putting our best side on the park, which we haven’t been able to do a lot this season and
playing to our full potential to beat Sawtell.”
He explained how much it meant for the club to defend
its premiership.
“It was huge, it’s something that has never been done in our club's history,” he said.
“We have a great committee behind the scenes
who are the reason we are able to field sides from Under 10s all the way to first-grade, without them none of this success would happen and to see how much it meant to them as well is just awesome.”
Diggers and Macksville win grand finals
By Aiden BURGESS
DIGGERS Cricket Club and the Macksville Bulls have both won premierships after victories in Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s third and fourth-grade grand finals.
Third-grade
Diggers Cricket Club won this season’s thirdgrade premiership, defeating Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White by eight runs in their grand final at Reg Ryan Oval.
Diggers successfully defended the premiership they won last season.
Diggers were bowled out for 200 in the 40th over, after the Rebels won the toss and
elected to bowl in the season decider.
Michael Nealand top scored with 70, and Colin Scott was next best with 43.
Lindsay Mamone took 2-30 from seven overs for the Rebels, and Connor Burgess took 2-39 from eight overs.
Chasing 201 for the grand final victory, the Rebels finished at 6/192 from their 40 overs.
Daniel Martin top scored with 73, and Brock Hutchinson was next best with 41.
Fourth-grade
Macksville Bulls capped off a dominant season with a premiership win, beating Sawtell Cricket Club Blue by
Para swimmer powers through Ocean Swim
By Andrea FERRARI
PARA sportswoman Pien
Abrahams, 21, proudly completed the 2km event in the Coffs Coast Ocean Swims, swimming breaststroke and finishing with a time of 65.12.
Pien had been visiting her great aunt and uncle in Sawtell, Ton Huybregts and his wife Chris.
It was not only her first time in Australia, and her first swimming event in saltwater, it was also about overcoming the challenge of her physical disabilities with a trademark smile and determination.
When aged six-and-ahalf, Pien was on the farm of a family friend in Germany when half of her body was crushed in a car accident.
“It was 2011, on the [horse] range [and] I had jumped over the bar connecting the car with the truck,” she told News Of The Area.
“The car moved, I fell over and was under the wheel of the trailer.”
The right side of her head was seriously injured.
“The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body, that’s why my left side doesn’t work anymore.”
But “not working” doesn’t mean she cannot use it, as she proves daily.
Pien uses her right eye for everyday interactions and long distance, while her left eye handles close-up reading.
“In the hospital they tried to make them work together, but they couldn’t, so I just worked it out.”
Visiting her relatives with her grandmother Nel van den Borne, Pien heard about the Ocean Swims and the pair went off to The Jetty to have a dip and check out the location.
“It was my first proper swim in the sea, previously I had only paddled… and
I decided to do the 600m event.”
However, after all her years in a pool, local lakes, and swimming for therapy in Germany, she has developed endurance.
“I have swum long distances before. I’ve done the 2km swim on Lake Neubrandenburg near home.
“My great aunt Truus Meulenbroeks (also from
Sawtell) chose the 2km event, so I changed to that.”
“The Coffs Harbour ocean swim was an amazing and challenging experience.
“I felt quite exhausted, but I just kept going by telling myself I could do it.
“I was very grateful that Truus swam with me, as it made the experience more enjoyable and motivating.
“Completing the distance
in open water gave me a great sense of achievement and confidence.
“It was also excellent training for my upcoming 2 km swim in Germany this July, helping me build both endurance and mental strength.”
Pien takes all the training in her stride.
“I don’t know any different,” she said, “I don’t
38-runs in the fourth-grade grand final at Donnelly Welsh Field. The Bulls set a total of 9/104 from 35 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.
John Bell top scored with 26 for the Bulls, while for Sawtell, Scott Griffiths took 3-20 from seven overs, Cooper Heinz took 2-15 from six overs, Eva Maguire took 2-22 from five overs, and captain Daniel Maguire had an economical spell of 1-7 from seven overs.
Needing 105 for the premiership win, Sawtell was bowled out for 66 in the 32nd over.
Ark Gillett was the pick of the Bulls bowlers taking 4-12 from four overs, and John Bell took 2-9 from six overs.
remember anything from before the accident, so I don’t think I lost anything.
“I’m never sad and always try to see the positive points. A lot of good things came out of it.
“I got my own Therapy Dog in 2012, her name is July and she is my best friend.”
Pien wears a ring on her right hand with a little stone set into the gold band. She explained, “That is one of the stones they took out of my brain after the accident.”
q Pien with great uncle and aunt Ton and Chris Huybregts of Sawtell, and grandma Nel van den Borne of Germany.
q Psyching up for the 2km ocean swim, Pien and Great Aunt Truus.
q Truus and Pien finish the 2km Coffs Coast Ocean Swim.
q The Nana Glen Lizards celebrate their premiership win.
q Diggers Cricket Club’s third-grade team celebrate their premiership victory.
Woolgoolga wins Under 16s premiership
By Aiden BURGESS
WOOLGOOLGA Cricket
Club Rebels have won Sixers Cricket League
Coffs Harbour’s Under 16s premiership, in a grand final victory which came right down to the final over.
The Rebels won this season’s title after having a five-wicket win against the Sawtell Sloggers, in their grand final at Toormina Oval.
The Rebels became the first team to beat Sawtell this season.
The grand final was rescheduled for Monday, 16 March, after being washed out on Friday, 13 March.
Sawtell set a total of 5/101 from 20 overs, after the Rebels won the toss and elected to bowl.
Opener Joshua de Groot stood tall top scoring with a vital knock of 40.
Thomas Bird took 2-9 from two overs for the Rebels, dismissing both of Sawtell’s openers.
Needing 102 for the grand final victory, the Rebels chased down the total with five balls to square.
Sahibjit Singh guided his side home top scoring with 32 not out and hitting a six to win the match, and opener Prabhjot Virk got his team off to a flyer smashing 27 off 15 balls.
Under 14s claim finals glory
By Aiden BURGESS
WOOLGOOLGA
Cricket Club Rebels Lions have gone through undefeated to win Sixers Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s Under 14s premiership.
The Rebels capped off a magnificent undefeated season with a premiership win, defeating Bellingen/ Dorrigo by 21-runs in their grand final at the High Street Playing Fields in Woolgoolga.
The Rebels set a total of 2/107 from 20 overs,
Rebels take out second grade
By Aiden BURGESS
WOOLGOOLGA Cricket Club
Rebels are this season’s second-grade premiers after edging out Sawtell Cricket Club by two runs in their grand final at Richardson Park.
Defending their total of 173, the Rebels bowled out the home side for 171 in a thrilling grand final which came right down to the final over.
The Rebels also successfully defended the premiership they won last season.
The Rebels were bowled out for 173 in the 40th over, after winning the toss and electing to bat in the season
decider.
Manat Singh top scored for his side with 45, and Dave Szumowski was next best with 38.
Sawtell captain Alexander Cheers Flavell took 3-36 from eight overs, Toby Blinman took 2-27 from eight overs, and Joshua de Groot took 2-24 from six overs.
Chasing 174 for the grand final victory, Sawtell fell agonisingly short after being bowled out for 171 with just two balls remaining.
Alexander Cheers Flavell rose to the occasion with a captain’s knock of 81.
Prabhjot Singh took 2-33 from eight overs for the Rebels, and Scott Jennings took 2-36 from eight overs.
q Woolgoolga Cricket Club
after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Daniel Martin top scored retiring on 39 not out, and Finn Kahler finished on 25 not out.
Needing 108 for the premiership victory, Bellingen/Dorrigo finished at 6/86 from 20 overs, as the Rebels bowlers stood up when it mattered most to defend their total.
Jennifer Martin was the pick of the Rebels bowlers taking 1-2 from two overs including one maiden.
Bellingen/Dorrigo captain Xavier Hartley top scored for his side retiring on 30 not out.
Daniel Martin was named player of the match.
The Rebels were the only Coffs Coast cricket team to go through their season undefeated.
q The Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Under 16s team celebrate their premiership win.
q The Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Lions celebrate their premiership win.
Rebels’ secondgrade side celebrate their premiership win.
Coffs Table Tennis Results
By Margaret ILES
FRIDAY 20th March, 2026
Division 1
Reece Baker d George Ruaporo 3/0, Paul Hendriks d
Coffs Harbour District Darts
By Ray BEASLEY
SAWTELL RSL Club
Summer Comp
Monday 16 March
Park Beach Mens Bowling
By Todd BROWN
OPEN Triples Tuesday 17 March 2026
G Williams, T Lainchbury, R Beaumont, A Campbell d S Ward, C
Park Beach Women's Bowls Club
By Anne ORR
SOCIAL Bowls 18.3.26. A Worboys, S Wilson, L McLeod def S Willis, F Gaunt, M Watt; M England, Y Hinsley, C
Sawtell Bowls Results
By Geoff HAMPSON
MONDAY Twilight Bowls 9/3/26
Cancelled due to weather
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls 10/3/26
B Connors, L North DEF N Elford, L Savage
T Rhoades, A Day DEF J Fleming, N Foy
L Wheeler/R Cook, R Lucas, J Wheeler DEF M McDonald, R Lucas, N Feltrin
WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 11/3/26
N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh DEF L Hartog, A Robertson, A Sorbello N Wong. M McGuire, J Townsend DEF W Prosser, A Birse, P Cook
Sawtell Golf Results
By Janet O’DOWD
11/3 IRISH Team Stableford Joy Lawrence, Trish Bailey, Trish Rhoades & Jenni Ball
17/3 4BBB Mark Greenshields & John Arnold 52, Greg Semmonds & Allan Wallis 49c/b, Anthony Sozou &
Colin Deng 3/1, Paul Moody d Bo Zhang 3/1, Reece Baker d Paul Moody 3/0, Paul Hendriks d Bo Zhang 3/0, Colin Deng d George Ruaporo 3/1, Reece Baker d Colin Deng 3/0, Paul Hendriks d Paul Moody 3/1, Bo Zhang d George Ruaporo 3/2, Reece Baker d Bo Zhang 3/1, Paul
Bad Habits def Fluke Shots 8-1
Warriors def Thunderstruck 5-4
Is It In def Bull Finish 6-3
DILLIGAF def Who Darted 9-0
100s
Brittany (2)
Asttan (1)
Christian B (1)
Domjahn, B Worboys, S Bailey
K Raymond, M Cutts, J Murtas d J Barker, R Jupp, J Phillips
C McLeod, P Wroe, D Hull d M Star, R Wisley, D Catling
L Morris, P Lilly, M Flint d K
Bienefelt, P Lawrence, H Major
H Schipp, M Pitt, K Morrison d M Ross, J Alford, R Alford
Garrett def M Trengrove, J Farrell, D Futcher;
M Webb, N Barker, R Crestani def B Bodel, L Mitchell, M Gudgeon; T Sullivan, E Blanton, J Alford def M Shaw, A McConachy, P Garner; A M Taylor, R DeMeio def M
T Brooks, G Dennis, R Cridge
DEF D Hammond, D Bond, M Flint
G Campbell, J Rice, R Williams
DEF C Christian, D Wheeler, M Aujard
A Vivian, D Anderson, A Berry
DEF P Swain, M Jenkins, G Walsh
G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar DEF B Fitzpatrick, S Sillar, B Clugston
R Wardrop, B Martin, P Collins
DEF W Bujeya, W Kellam, M Gibbons
R McLellan, D Isacs, L Preston
DEF N McLelland, M Pollard, J Urge
I Muller, J Richardson, L Zecchinati DEF P Paunovic, K Sharman, A Baker
FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls
13/3/26 Cancelled Due to Weather
MONDAY Twilight Bowls
16/3/26
J Chapman, J Fleming DEF D
Barry Woods 49c/b 18/3 Fourball Stableford
Pauline Barnes & Lee Stewart 50, Carole Davis & Bronwyn Nicholson 46, Narelle Hall & Paula Sercombe 44, Karen Wilson & Rhonda Cooper 42c/b, Sandra Guymer & Joy Lawrence 42. NTP 3 3: Gloria Rossi, NTP 7 2: Robyn O'Dwyer, NTP 11 1: Georgia Perkins
Raiders run riot
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40 environment.
Hendriks d George Ruaporo 3/2, Paul Moody d Colin Deng 3/1, Reece Baker d Paul Hendriks 3/0, Bo Zhang d Colin Deng 3/0, Paul Moody d George Ruaporo 3/1.
WINNER: Reece Baker from Paul Hendriks.
Division 2
Lulu Zhang d Char Berglund
Craig C (2)
Craig S (3)
Dave C (1)
Dave H (2)
Dean (6)
Edward (2)
Garry (1)
Harley (1)
Kurt (1)
AM Taylor, J Long, B Johns d D Francis, M Berube, G Stanford
W Grimshaw, J Robinson, C Jones d T Brown, A Orr, S Jones
C Weatherall, V Valentine, D Valentine d C Hansen, Nicko, D Condon
Triples Thursday 19 March 2026
Crawford, S Hancock. Friday 20.3.26. R Holloway, A Orr def M England, C England; K Read, R Lane def R Jupp, M Monck; S Bailey, D Walsh def G Duffey, D Lindner; J Rodwell, C Treharne def J Millar M Millar.
Kennedy, A Day
J Cherne, L Kratz, B Kennedy DEF K Mason, P Day, C Christian
E Kochma, R Avery, N Elford DEF E Kochma, R Hampson, L Mitchell
B Tremaine, G Davidson, G Hampson DEF R Redman, S Fleming, K Taylor
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls
17/3/26
A Day, J Fleming, N Feltrin, E Tindall DEF A Day, J Wheeler, L Kratz, T Goninan
R Lucas, G Pickard, L North DEF R Cook/L Wheeler, H Muir, N Foy
N Elford, C Veerhuis, C Irvine
DEDF M McDonald, M Baguley, L Savage
WEDNESAY Men’s Social Bowls
18/3/26
T Brooks, R Cridge, G Dennis
20/3 Medley Stableford Lochie Smith 39. Balls to 37c/b 22/3 Stableford A: Warren Johnstone 41, Allan Wallis 39c/b. B: Dean Szabo 39, Wayne Parkin 38. C: Rodney Wisely 42, Christopher Ryan 38. Balls to 34c/b. NTP 7 A: Trevor Smith, C: Roger Bale. NTP 11 A:Allan Wallis, B: Shane Burns C: David Jackson
day not conceding a goal.
“It was still hot on Sunday and a Urunga vs Urunga first game helped to settle the squad,” Martin said.
3/2, King McKie d Sharee Templeton 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Terry Baker 3/1, Lulu Zhang d Nick Jankovic 3/2, King McKie d Terry Baker 3/2, Char Berglund d Sharee Templeton 3/2, Sharee Templeton d Lulu Zhang 3/1, King McKie d Nick Jankovic 3/1, Char Berglund d Terry Baker 3/1,
Paul (1)
Reg (1)
Rob (3)
Sam (1)
Trevor (1)
High pegs
Kurt (85)
Rob (64)
Sam (80)
M McCabe, D Burridge, L Goodacre d P Elliott, R Host, P Lilly
G Meyer, C Lloyd, M Flint d R Feltrum, B Worboys, I Trengove
Athol, David, M Hodge d P Webb, M Lee, K Morrison
T Lainchbury, D Wilson, L Morris d G Williams, R
Safety Beach Women’s Stableford
By Michelle MERRIKIN
17/03/2026 1st Jo Elwood 41 2nd Karen Smith CB 40 3rd Julie Castle 40 4th Marlene Powers CB 38
DEF I Muller, L Zecchinati, P Warby
C Christian, D Wheeler, M Aujard DEF N McClelland, M Pollard, J Urge
G Campbell, J Rice, R Williams
DEF G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar
P Paunovic, K Sharman, A Wagstaff DEF W Bujeya, W Kellam, M Gibbons
M McGuire, A Baker, B Blight
DEF R Wardrop D Isaacs, B Martin
G Peel, T Mitchell, L Preston DEF S Birch, B Fitzpatrick, S Sillar
N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh
DEF N Wong, W Vaughn, G Hampson
P Swain, D Anderson, A Berry
DEF M Hastings, Warren B, John H
I Maderic, G Walsh, M Jenkins DEF R McLellan, G Hitchen, S Wilkinson
Ladies Bronwyn Nicholson 24 23/3 Medley Stableford Ashley Christian (Nudgee) 39c/b. Terry Rapley 39. Balls to 35c/b.
Men's Pennants
Congratulations to Peter Matten, Luke France, Neal McCarthy and Rohan McIntosh on winning Division 2 Pennants.
Woopi Monday Vets
By Dianne RICHARDS
23rd MARCH 2026
Lulu Zhang d Terry Baker 3/1, Char Berglund d King McKie 3/2, Sharee Templeton d Nick Jankovic 3/0, King McKie d Lulu Zhang 3/2, Sharee Templeton d Terry Baker 3/2, Nick Jankovic d Char Berglund 3/0.
WINNER: King McKie from Sharee Templeton.
Leader Board
DILLIGAF 49
Is It In 36
Bull Finish 34
Warriors 33
Bad Habits 32
Fluke Shots 31
Thunderstruck 25
Who Darted 12
Beaumont, A Campbell
B Walmsley, M Baker, D Condon d H Katala, R Harris, G Colman
P North, P Booth, M Berube d M Miller, T Wisley, S Jones
S Kindred, J Kindred, G Kindred d J Lowndes, H Schipp, K Crook
T Cooper, G Stanford, T Erskine d P Moore, B Trotman, B Garner
5th Michelle Wilson
Nearest the pin
Hole 4 Kerry Slater
Hole 7 Leanne Clark
Hole 9 Susan Spiller
Hole 11 Marlene Powers
3 Birdies for the day
Karen Smith on the 7th
Michelle Wilson 15th
Leanne Clark 11th
D Hammond, D Bond, M Flint DEF A Plane, G Palisade, B Merchant
FRIDAY 20/3/25 Mixed Social Bowls
N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Townsend DEF N Wong, R Cridge, M Flint
J Rice, R Williams, L Preston DEF J Brown, J Smithers, R Morris
B Buchanen, E Tindall, T Buchanan DEF L Read, J Richardson, A Sorbello
S Birch, K English, S Sillar DEF G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar
W Vaughn, S Fleming, D Anderson DEF H Muir, J Hall, A Day G Hampson, N Elford, K Taylor DEF K Sharman, C Christian, A Berry
T Lavelle, A Baker, B Blight DEF P Paunovic, J Eyles, R Eyles winner’s cheque.
The Rangers, gallant in defeat, took home $500 as runners-up.
Urunga Coach Trevor Martin has long treated the pre-season Challenge Cup as a proving ground before the real work begins.
“Challenge Cup has always been a part of our pre-season schedule,” he said.
“It’s an opportunity to chat with rival coaches, trial different players and look at game tactics in a friendly but competitive
“After last year’s washout we were hopeful for a fun and productive weekend.
“Saturday was hot and humid which when combined with a slow pitch meant the physical demands on the teams went up a notch.
“We looked sharp from the whistle though and played a quick but controlled brand of football over the group stages, finishing day one with a bag full of goals and none conceded.”
Urunga saved the best for last, with a flawless display on the final
“We did step up as the day progressed and found ourselves facing MVR in the final.
They have always been strong and we don’t play them regularly so we were a little unsure of what to expect.
“It was a fitting finals matchup.
“Both teams worked hard and played attractive and competitive football.
“But there can only be one winner and the Raiders girls took the honours with a 2-0 victory.”
Amanda Lockman made it into the 50 – 54 years Freestyle final, Amanda declined going in the final to save her energy for the relays.
Paul Sheridan made it into the 70 – 74 years Freestyle Final coming sixth.
The 10 × 50m Relay, Bellingen Team plus six members from the Coogee team swam well under their nominated time by eight seconds.
The Ray Weekes 4 × 50m
second was Andrew O’Keeffe.
FINAL
Colin Redman came in on a wrecking ball coming first and in the money, in second was Amanda Vockler and in third was Peter Allison.
RACE 2 25m Breaststroke
HEAT 1
Paul Sheridan had his froggy legs on coming first, in second was Jim Baird and in third was Colin Redman.
HEAT 2
Andrew O’KeeffeOcame out
(D) J Hurrell, D Barnard. (21/22)
Rink 3: W Prosser , G McInerney (D) J Gibbons, C Boyden (26/11).
Rink 4: A Plain, B Merchant (D) J Weston, G Pallister (16/19) Rink
5: J Simmons, H Katala (D) R Bennell, S Bailey (16/15)
Salisbury; EW H Blewitt. M Rogers
Feb 17th - D Featherstone; N McIvor
Feb 18th - NS S Dilosa, D O'Meara; EW R Rutter, P Quinlan
Feb 20th - NS B Salisbury, P Houlton; EW J Parker, N Williams
Feb 21st - NS R Roark, F Gaunt; EW CTolley, B Herring
Feb 23rd - A NS L Power. J Leach; EW T Cooper, T Ward - B NS P Jonutz, H Eyers; EW B Butler, M Pailthorpe
Feb 24th - M Johnson, D Johnson
Feb 25th - NS H Pitt, R Roark; EW R Rutter, P Quinlan
Sandy Dollin
Frances Gaunt
Betty Peen
48 c/b
Second:
Vicki Silver
Garry Silver
Geoff Clerke
Mark Cooney
48 Third: Tont Parsons
– Ladies Centenary Championships Rd2
Overall graded winners
A Grade
1. Tracey Kean 66
2. Kerry Wilson 67
3. Keryn Little 69
B Grade
1. Trish Mackay 70
2. Ruth Ryan 71C/B
3. Sue McLean 71
C Grade
1. Kerri Neef 67
2. Denise Kaiser 68C/B
3. Natalie Heckenberg 68
MNC Veteran Golfers competed in a single stableford at Coffs Harbour Golf Course.
A grade: Winner - Brad Reeson 40, 1st runner-up Col Osland 38, 2nd runner-up
Relay.
Mike Navin, Sue Crossley, Amanda Lockman and Paul Sheridan took out first place, swimming 211.90 seconds off a nominated time of 211 seconds. Great swim.
Well done to The Bellingen Bats. of nowhere coming first, in second was Amanda Lockman and in third was Mike Navin.
q The Bellingen Bats team was Paul Sheridan, Sue Crossley, Amanda Lockman and Mike Navin.
RACE 3 50m Freestyle
There was one bust in this race, Amanda Vockler taking one second off her time.
HEAT 1
Paul Sheridan swam like a bat out of hell coming first, in second was Jill Williams and in third was Colin Redman.
HEAT 2
Mike Navin swam like lightening coming first, in
L Walsh, Helmut, R Shaw (D) D Hodge, J Taylor S Oliver (29/ 12).
Friday 20/3/2026. Game played 2,4.2. Rink 1 A Plain, L Walsh (D) Barnard, G Pallister. (22/15) Rink 2J Burgess, K
Feb 27th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW T Booth, P Quinlan
Feb 28th - NS C Tolley, B Herring; EW S Kremplins, J Isaacs
Mar 2nd - NS P Jonutz, H Eyers; EW D Strachan, A Brentnall
Mar 3rd - M Johnson. D Johnson
Mar 4th - NS H Pitt, R Roark; EW S Dilosa, D O'Meara
Mar 6th - NS C Hocking, P Hocking; EW G Battershell, J Stimpson
Mar 7th - NS H Pitt, R Roark; EW R Rutter, V Gayford
Mar 9th - NS C Tolley, B Herring; EW C Everson, J Michael Mar 10th - D Featherstone, N
Chris Oddy
Ken Barber
Robert Standing 47
Ball comp:
Marilyn Waterhouse
Doug Neil
Darren Fitzgerald
Anne King-Scott
Anne Ericsson
John Ericsson
Jeff Howlett
Saturday 21st March 2026 –Ladies 4BBB Stableford
Overall winners
1. Greer Galloway & Debby France 47
2. Jos Mitchell & Maureen Cotsell 43
3. Kerry Farmer & Judy Everitt 41C/B
NTP
3rd hole Keryn Little 250cm
6th hole Dallas Lamb 620cm
12th hole Alex Brett 423cm 15th hole Alex Brett 327cm
Sunday 22nd March 2026 –
Stephen Arnold 37, 3rd runner-up Will Randall 36 c/b.
B grade: Winner – Geoff Bridger (SW Rocks) 40 c/b, 1st runner-up Michael Bleakley 40, 2nd runner-up Peter
second was Amanda Vockler in third was Jim Baird. RACE 4 5 × 25m Relay
Paul Sheridan, Jill Williams, Colin Redman, Amanda Lockman and Peter Allison like the wind coming first and in second was Jim Baird, Mike Navin, Amanda Vockler, Andrew O’Keeffe and Elizabeth Casey.
A great night had by all, come and join us for some fun and laughter on Thursday night at 5.30.
Costelloe (D) Ian, B Symes ( 26/17.) Rink 3: J, Taylor, P, Buck (D) M Hopes, M Hodge. (29/12). Rink 4: J Gibbons, R Whelan (D) J Hurrell, H Katala (14/13).
Rink 5: Richard, W Gavenlock (D) J Lynn, G Martin (22/10).
McIvor
Mar 11th - Ns R Bingham, A Fisher; EW D Hickie, N Williams
Mar 13th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW S Fox, A Fox
Mar 14th - NS R Roark, F Gaunt; EW E Colley, D Strachan
Mar 16th - NS C Tolley, B Herring; EW R Rutter, P Quinlan
Mar 17th - M Johnson, D Johnson
Mar 18th - J Burrows, T Cooper; EW L Smith J Archer
Mar 20th - NS C Hocking, P Hocking; EW L Quinn, P Haigh
Mar 21st - NS N McIvor. K Potts; EW R Aitken, L Quinn
Anne Dew
45
Nearest the pins: 3rd Hole Carlene Bath & Doug Neil
6th Hole Geoff Clerke
Next week early start at 7.30am - Single Stableford.
Thanks to all who played today in not so wonderful conditions, and a special thanks to those who filled in to make up teams of 4.
Ladies Centenary Championships Rd3
Overall graded winners
A Grade
1. Annalese McKee 72
2. Greer Galloway 73
3. Alex Brett 75
B Grade
1. Ruth Ryan 70
2. Louise Knight 74
3. Judy Everitt 75 C Grade
1. Di Ratcliffe 73
2. Christine Tessari 74C/B
3. Kerri Neef 74
Vernon 39, 3rd runner-up John Ward 38.
NTP’s: 3rd Col Osland, 6th
Chris Bournon, 22nd Ian Rose, 26th Matt Lark.
Ball run to 32 pts.
Yvonne Bright
Passed away peacefully on 18th March 2026 at Bellingen Hospital. Beloved wife of Larry. Loving mother of Tessa, Matthew & Kshama. Cherished Glam-ma to Cohen and Hugo.
Forever loved and deeply missed.
A private cremation has been held.
VICTOR RULLIS
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
HARDMAN, Kitty
19th March 2026, passed peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital. Late of Urunga, formerly of Manilla, NSW.
Dearly beloved wife of Bryan (dec’d).
Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Letitia & Peter Ridley (dec’d), Nicole Burgess and Jason. Cherished grandmother of Alex, Danielle & Nic, Aleisha & Mark and Maxwell & Aster. Adored great-grandmother of Mia, Jensen, Scarlett and Evelyn.
Aged 87 Years At Peace And Together With Bryan Again
Kitty was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
CARTER
Barry Richard ‘Bazza’
23rd March 2026, passed peacefully at Woolgoolga Aged Care with his family by his side. Late of Woolgoolga, formerly of Korora. Dearly beloved husband of Lesley. Loving father of Todd, Adam, David and Tracy. Caring grandfather of Amba Rose, Ivy, Isaac, Summer Rose, Cassie, Anna, Lachlan and Andrew.
Aged 83 Years
A Bright Spark Gone Too Soon
Barry was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
POULTON
Pamela Louise ‘Pam’
18th March 2026, passed away peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus after a short illness. Late of Coffs Harbour. Dearly beloved sister of Jen. Fond friend to all those who knew her.
Aged 75 Years
Always Fondly Remembered
Pam was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Norman Charles Ray ‘Norm
25th March 2026
Passed away peacefully at Bellingen Hospital. Late of Boambee East. Beloved husband of Helen. Loved father and father-in-law of Jenny & Wayne, Ann, Debbie & Dave, Norm & Cherie. Proud Did to Tammy, Trent, Jay, Rebecca, Todd, Kyle, Justin, Matt, Jason, Jessie, Amelia and Melody and great-grandchildren and great-great-grandson.
Aged 87 Years
Sadly Missed, In God’s Keeping Family & friends are warmly invited to attend Norm’s funeral service to be held at 10.30am on Wednesday, 1st April 2026 in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Rd, Karangi. Livestreaming is available from our website.
VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Kevin Leslie Harold ‘Kev’
24th March 2026, passed peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, surrounded by his loving family. Late of Urunga, formerly of Girraween, Sydney. Loving husband of Wendy. Adored father of Nathan, Brooke (dec’d) and April. Devoted pa of Zak, Jed, Abbey, Leah and Enzo. Big brother of Neal and Jill.
Aged 81 Years Forever In Our Hearts
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Kevin’s Funeral Service to be held in Sawtell Uniting Church, Sawtell on Monday 30th March 2026 commencing at 11.00 am, thence for private cremation at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
WHITMORE, Adele May
21st March 2026, passed away peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, surrounded by her loving family. Late of Woolgoolga. Dearly beloved wife of Keith. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Sharlene & Rick (dec’d), Jason & Karen and John & Kelly. Adored nan and great-nan of their children.
Aged 80 Years Never Forgotten
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Adele’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Monday 30th March 2026 commencing at 10.00 am.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Peter Frederick Williams 19th March 2026
Passed away peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Late of Raleigh. A much loved husband of Sybil. A loving father of Geoffrey, Steven and Leonie (dec). Loved grandfather of Lauren and Emily Farrell. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Aged 90 Years
Forever In Our Hearts
Family & friends are warmly invited to attend Peter’s funeral service to be held at 2pm on Monday, 30th March 2026 in the St Barnabas Anglican Church, Bowra St, Urunga. Thence for private cremation.
VICTOR RULLIS
FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Phillip Anthony Wills 24th March 2026
Late of Hacking Court, Coffs Harbour.
Dearly loved son of Margaret and Earle (both dec). Beloved brother of Michael (dec), Dennis (dec), Robyn, Garry and Julie. Brother-in-law to Jim. Fond uncle to Renee, Melissa, Belinda and Daniel. Sadly missed by all.
Aged 65 Years
Finally At Peace, Always Loved
Family & friends are warmly invited to attend Phillip’s funeral service to be held at 1.30pm on Wednesday, 1st April 2026 in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi. Thence for interment within the adjoining lawn cemetery.
VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
CARR
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JAYCO Penguin campervan, wind up 12ft 6, 3 berth Registered to Nov '26 - R73306. 2
PUZZLES
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp
ONTHEBOX
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY PATIENCE
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Former criminal record archivist Patience Evans (Ella Maisy Purvis, pictured) proved herself integral to the York police in season one of this British crime thriller – helping detective Bea Metcalf (Laura Fraser) with a fresh perspective on complicated cases. But as season two begins, we learn that Metcalf moved to Glasgow without warning and has been replaced by DI Frankie Monroe (Jessica Hynes, Spaced). The abrasive and stern Monroe views Patience, who is autistic, as a liability, and isn’t shy about expressing it.
FRIDAY, March 27
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Patience. (Return, M) A body is found drained of blood.
Gala. (R)
1.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R)
2.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
WEDNESDAY
MELBOURNE COMEDY FESTIVAL: ALLSTARS SUPERSHOW
ABC TV, 9.30pm
A jewel in the crown of Australia’s cultural events, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival marks its 40th anniversary this year. And what better day on the calendar to broadcast a celebration than April Fool’s Day? Brett Blake and Bron Lewis (pictured) host this extravaganza from St Kilda’s Palais Theatre, featuring the comic stylings of Celia Pacquola, David O’Doherty, Dilruk Jayasinha, He Huang, Jenny Tian, Josie Long, Lou Wall, Nazeem Hussain, Phil Wang, Reuben Kaye, Tom Cashman and Sam Jay. From festival favourites to next-generation talents and everything in between, this legendary line-up has something to tickle even the creakiest of funny bones.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
Titanic In Colour. (R)
SBS World News Late.
Sisi. (Ma)
Babylon Berlin. (MA15+a, R) 1.40 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+v, R)
3.30 Food, Sail, Love. (PG, R)
4.05 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY
RIOT WOMEN
SBS, 9.35pm
Happy
Gentleman Jack
Last Tango in Halifax, acclaimed screenwriter Sally Wainwright takes pride in creating authentic, complex and fierce female characters. Her latest project is no exception, focusing on a group of menopausal British women who form a punk rock band for a local talent contest. It’s not long before teacher Beth (Joanna Scanlan, pictured), shoplifter Kitty (Rosalie Craig), pub landlady Jess (Lorraine Ashbourne), police officer Holly (Tamsin Greig) and midwife Yvonne (Amelia Bullmore) discover they’ve actually got quite a lot to shout about. The six-part series covers a lot of ground and is a testament to the power of female friendship.
6.00 NBN News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 3. Collingwood v GWS Giants.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 12.55 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R) Seth and Lew are given an opportunity.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. Brisbane Broncos v Dolphins. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game. 10.45 MOVIE: Gringo. (2018, MA15+dlv, R) A man plots his own abduction. David Oyelowo. 1.00 Next Stop. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R)
ONTHEBOX
SATURDAY, March 28
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Blue Murder Motel. (M, R) 1.15 Patience. (M, R) 2.10 David Attenborough’s First Life. (Final, R) 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (Final, PG, R) 4.10 The Matter Of Facts. (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PG) Two locals are poisoned by their own dinner.
8.15 Top End Bub. (M) Taya’s birthday turns to chaos with the arrival of Ned’s high-maintenance mother. Lauren secretly discovers who Taya’s father is.
8.40 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) Neville and the team investigate a death and discover a hidden world of data mining, crypto and murder.
9.40 Frauds. (M, R) Bert reveals her master plan.
10.30 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.55 Chopped Junior. 9.35 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Vintage Voltage. (R) 10.55 Peter Andre’s Greek Odyssey. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo. Men’s Race. H’lights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. (PG) 3.30 Going Places. (R) 4.30 Gestapo: Hitler’s Secret Police. (PGavw, R) 5.35 Berlin: Stories Of The City. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PG)
8.25 Homebodies.
9.25 MOVIE: The Hostages’ Story. (2025, Mal) Documents the human cost of state hostage taking. Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe, Richard Ratcliffe. 11.05 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)
1.45 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+v, R)
3.30 Food, Sail, Love. (R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Wknd. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Family Stakes Day and Australian Cup 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) An unemployed man attracts suspicion. 7.30 Athletics. Maurie Plant Meet. 9.30 MOVIE: Men In Black: International. (2019, Mv, R) Two MiB agents uncover a sinister plot involving a traitor who is aiding an alien invasion. Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson, Liam Neeson.
11.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R)
1.00 Devils. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R)
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Meg 2: The Trench. (2023, Mav) A research team’s ocean dive spirals into chaos. Jason Statham, Jing Wu.
10.50 MOVIE: Into The Blue 2: The Reef. (2009, MA15+sv, R)
12.35 Epic Builds. (R)
1.30 Open For Inspection. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House. (R) A man is hoping to find a best friend.
7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. The competition is on, with team List It wanting to find Skye and Andrew a new home.
9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.
10.30 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) A ’90s supermodel returns to New York for revenge. 11.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mv, R) The unit searches for an assailant.
12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
SUNDAY,
March 29
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 The Piano. (R) 3.30 Inside The Sydney Opera House. (R) 4.30 Creative Types. (PG, R) 5.00 Back Roads. (R) 5.30 Fake Or Fortune? (Return)
6.30 Compass: Reclaiming Pride. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (PG) Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.
8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms) Debbie’s on a mission to catch a blackmailer.
8.50 Frauds. (Mlv) Trouble from home catches up with Bilal.
9.35 Blue Murder Motel. (PGa, R) Two locals are poisoned by their own dinner.
10.25 Top End Bub. (Ml, R)
10.45 MOVIE: Sweetie. (1989, MA15+l, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.30 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Foxes: Their Secret World. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Princess
7TWO (62)
7MATE (64)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Vintage Voltage. (R) 11.00 Estonia From Above. (R) 12.00 PBS News Compass Points. 12.30 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike C’ship. Round 2. Replay. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo. Women’s race. H’lights. 5.00 Going Places. (R) 5.30 Orphans Of WW2. (PGaw)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Valley Of The Kings: Secret Tombs.
9.20 Leonardo Da Vinci. (Ma, R) 10.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGav, R)
11.15 Cycling. UCI World Tour. In Flanders Fields – From Middelkerke to Wevelgem. Men’s race. 1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. In Flanders Fields – From Middelkerke to Wevelgem. Women’s race.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Wknd. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 To Be Advised. 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal)
8.45 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions continue as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
10.00 King Con: Life And Crimes Of Hamish McLaren. (Mal, R) A look at con man Hamish McLaren.
12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
4.00 WorldWatch. 4.55 PBS News Compass Points. 5.25 Smoke And Steel: Secrets Of The Modern World. 6.20 The Architecture The Railways Built. 7.15 Abandoned Engineering. 8.15 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 9.20
SBS MOVIES (32)
Caraboo. (1994, PG) 7.35 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 9.55 Discovering Film. 10.40 Paradise Road. (1997, M) 12.45pm Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, M) 3.00 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 4.55 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 6.50 Enchanted Kingdom. 8.30 Moonfall. (2022, M) 10.55 Erotica 2022. (2022, MA15+, Polish) 1.35am Birthday Girl. (2001, M) 3.15 Late Programs. 6am Another Mother’s Son. Continued. (2017, PG) 6.55 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 8.50 Enchanted Kingdom. 10.30 The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, M) 12.20pm The Hummingbird. (2022, M, Italian) 2.40 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 4.25 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 6.25 Merchant Ivory. 8.30 A Room With A View. (1985, M) 10.40 Burning Days. (2022, MA15+, Turkish) 1am Late Programs.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
7MATE (64)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Ice Hockey. NHL. New York Rangers v Chicago Blackhawks. 12.40pm Soccer. English Premier League. Bournemouth v Manchester United. 2.40 MOVIE: Fisherman’s Friends 2: One And All. (2023, PG) 4.50 Young Sheldon. 5.20 MOVIE: DC League Of Super-Pets. (2022, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. (2016, M) 10.10 Late Programs.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
9.40 9News Late.
10.10 My Wife, My Killer And The Secret Footage. (MA15+assv) 11.10 The First 48: Death In Desire. (MA15+a, R)
12.00 A Killer Makes A Call. (MA15+av, R)
1.00 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
Warrior. 5.05 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 My Road To Adventure. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. Aust Nationals. H’lights. 4.00 Frozen Gold. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor. (2008, M) 9.45 MOVIE: Backdraft. (1991, M) 12.30am Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 MOVIE: DC League Of Super-Pets. (2022, PG) 10.00 Cards And Collectables Aust. 10.30 Motor Racing. Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. 11.35 Surfing Aust. 12.05pm Limitless. 1.15 Soccer. EPL. Everton v Chelsea. 3.15 Austn
6.30 10 News+. 7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) The tribe continues to target the returnees. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mav) The team heads to the Top End to investigate a US-Australian training exercise that has appeared to turn deadly. 9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mas) A man claims his girlfriend has been kidnapped. Tynan comes down hard on Benson after a disagreement. Griffin defends his policework.
2.30 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (PG, R)
4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Crystalized. 7.50 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 31
6am The
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 9-1-1. (Mav) Hen continues to seek out a diagnosis for her mysterious symptoms.
9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.
10.40 The Agenda Setters.
11.40 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.40 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 100% Footy. (Mal) Features the latest rugby league news.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl)
Sight Unseen. (Mav)
Footy Classified. (Ml)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (R)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa)
10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Exit. (Return, MA15+adlnsv) 11.55 Wolf. (Madlv, R)
2.10 Reset. (Mn, R) 3.05 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (PG, R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Assassin. Continued. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 7.05 A Room With A View. (1985, M) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.05 Moonfall. (2022, M) 12.25pm Gloria Bell. (2018, M) 2.15 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.10 Under The Cover Of Cloud. (2018, PG) 5.50 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG) 7.30 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, M, Danish) 9.25 How To Make A Killing. (2024, MA15+, French) 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG) 10.00 Staring At Strangers. (2022, M, Spanish) Noon Say It Loud. (2020, M, Italian) 1.40 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 3.35 A Room With A View. (1985, M) 5.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 7.30 Dragons Forever. (1988, M, Cantonese) 9.15 Kung Fu Hustle. (2004, M, Cantonese) 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl) Thousands of dollars are found in the street.
8.30 Doc. (Mad) Charlie fights for his life at Westside.
9.30 House Of Wellness. (Return, PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well.
10.30 The Agenda Setters.
11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)
12.00 Dirty John. (MA15+v)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 The Hunting Wives.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Explore. 11.45 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. 12.15pm MOVIE: The Aegean. (2024, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Terminator. (1984, M) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 The 100. 12.40am Love Island UK. 1.35 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Addams Family. 11.00 Bewitched. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm My Way. 12.40 MOVIE:
ABC FAMILY (22)
ABC FAMILY (22)
ONTHEBOX
WEDNESDAY, April 1
TV (2)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.30
(3)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip. (PG)
8.25 Mysteries Of Loch Ness. (PG, R)
9.20 Prisoner 951. (M)
10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Rise Of The Raven. (Premiere, MA15+v)
11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Return, MA15+v) 1.40 Classified. (MA15+v, R) 3.20 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (Ml, R) 3.45 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
THURSDAY, April 2
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 The Weekly. (PGs, R) 11.00 Creative Types. (PG, R) 11.25 Can You Keep A Secret? (M, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Frauds. (Mlv, R) 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.15 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 My Dream Green Home. (PGl) 9.55 Rome: Rise Of Empire. (R) 10.50 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.35 Insight. (R) 3.35 Plat Du
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hamish McLachlan chats with Alastair Clarkson. 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Mal)
12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)
12.30 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (PGls, R)
8.30 MOVIE: Bride Wars. (2009, PGal, R)
10.20 One Tank Holiday. (R)
10.50 9News Late.
11.20 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Hello SA. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
The Matter Of Facts. (PG, R)
The Business. (R)
Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG, R)
Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
(3)
6am Morning
7MATE (64)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Treasures With Bettany Hughes. (PG)
8.25 Our Medicine. (PGa, R) 9.35 Riot Women. (Premiere) 10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv)
12.05 Blackwater. (Malsv, R) 2.15 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 3.15 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
5.00 Alone Denmark. 6.05 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained.
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
Programs. 6.15 Discovering Film. 7.05 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 8.55 Under The Cover Of Cloud. (2018, PG) 10.35 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, M, Danish) 12.30pm Kung Fu Hustle. (2004, M, Cantonese) 2.20 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG) 4.00 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 5.40 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 7.30 Bad Eggs. (2003, M) 9.25 The Wog Boy. (2000) 11.10 Late Programs. 6am Finding You. (2020, PG) 8.10 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 10.00 Dragons Forever. (1988, M, Cantonese) 11.45 Man Up. (2015, M) 1.20pm The Longest Week. (2014, M) 2.50 Discovering Film. 3.45 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 5.30 Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 7.30 Monty Python And The Holy Grail. (1975, PG) 9.10 What We Do In The Shadows. (2014, M) 10.45 Late Programs.
(6)
6am
The 13th Summer. (2022, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30
Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30
MOVIE: Shallow Hal. (2001, M) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (Ma, R) Documents the work of the highway patrol.
8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal) A drunk driver gets his car airborne.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) More performers take to the stage to impress the judges and secure their place in the semi-finals.
9.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R)
12.40 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
Rugby League. NRL. Round 5. Dolphins v Manly Sea Eagles.
Bewitched. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm MOVIE: Wanda And Sully. (2023, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30
Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30
MOVIE: The Matrix Revolutions. (2003, M) 11.05 Seinfeld. 12.05am Rugby Heaven. 1.05 Love Island UK. 2.05 Late Programs.
DRAMA
DRAMA (51)
9GEM
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
By David WIGLEY
THE Urunga Raiders claimed the women’s Challenge Cup with a composed 2-0 win over the Macleay Valley Rangers (MVR) after three days of action at Coronation Park, Nambucca Heads.
Fresh off a dominant 4-0 semi-final victory over Coffs United, the Raiders brought the same intensity into the decider, overcoming a determined Rangers outfit that threatened on multiple occasions but couldn’t find the breakthrough.
The Raiders were all smiles at full-time as Nambucca Strikers president Clay Urquhart presented the trophy, along with a $1,400
Raiders run riot
q The Urunga Raiders celebrate victory in the Challenge Cup. Photo: David Wigley.
