q Energy Minister Penny Sharpe speaks in Kurri Kurri.
136 360 benton@newsofthearea.com.au
By John WATTS
A FORMER traffic
engineer has expressed urgent safety concerns over two infamous highway intersections, describing the level of risk as "unacceptable".
As reported in NOTA on 21 January 2026, the NSW Government currently has no firm plans to fix the busy and dangerous Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection in the foreseeable future.
OUTLETS
“Further investigations are underway to inform development of a business case for staged upgrades to improve safety along this section of the M1 Pacific Motorway,” Transport for NSW (TfNSW) told NOTA at the time.
“Transport advises further funding will be needed to complete development and delivery of the identified projects.”
Despite the apparent lack of urgency, former senior RTA traffic engineer Gordon Chirgwin has expressed his strong concerns about both the Bucketts Way and Medowie Rd intersections.
“I believe that the intersections of the Pacific Highway with Bucketts Way at Twelve Mile Hill and Medowie Road are of high priority,” said Mr Chirgwin.
A SMALL army of volunteers mobilised for a Clean Up Australia Day event on Sunday,
“Both intersections present a high risk of serious high-speed accidents.
“From a few hundred metres north of Bucketts Way to south of Medowie Road there are… entrances to a caravan park; the Bucketts Way intersection; the entrance and exit to a southbound rest area; the entrance, bypass and exit for a southbound heavy vehicle inspection facility; entrances and exits for a northbound rest area, with a facility to enter for southbound traffic; and the Medowie Road intersection.
“With this number of conflicts, and given the traffic volumes, the potential for a serious crash is high.
“Also, there are usually traffic queues in Medowie Road and Bucketts Way, especially in holiday periods, and any impatience by drivers is highly likely to precipitate an accident.
“In my professional view, the risk of an accident is unacceptable.”
The traffic situation may get worse in the near future, with several new gravel quarries set to begin operations, and an application by Yancoal to construct a renewable energy hub at Stratford.
Yancoal has indicated that 350 workers will
disposing of rubbish in Wallaroo State Forest.
The community cleanup, coordinated by the
be employed during construction, which is likely to generate significant traffic along Bucketts Way.
South of Bucketts Way the Stone Ridge Quarry and the Eagleton Quarry have both been approved, and Boral is seeking to expand the operations of its existing Seaham Quarry.
All three quarries will be serviced by the Pacific Highway and Italia Road.
When fully operational, together they will require large numbers of daily heavy vehicle trips north on the Pacific Highway through its intersection with The Bucketts Way, before performing a U-turn and heading south again.
The Deep Creek gravel quarry at Limeburners,
NSW and ACT Four Wheel Drive Association, the Hunter 4WD Council, and Forestry Corporation was
which was approved in late 2024, is estimated to generate at least 250 heavy truck movements per day on Bucketts Way when it becomes operational.
Additionally the government is now considering whether to approve yet another gravel quarry (Hillview Quarry) in Maytoms Lane, which would pour an additional 250 trucks per day through the Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection.
A 4 July 2025 submission by Boral to the NSW Planning Department said as follows: “In conjunction, the Hillview, Deep Creek, Seaham, Stone Ridge and Eagleton quarry projects may be expected to direct up to 1,135 daily heavy
held on Sunday, 1 March from 8:30am. Forestry Corporation Partnership Leader
Alex Capararo said, “It’s fantastic to see so many volunteers, particularly 4WD club members across the region, putting their hands up to help care for Wallaroo State Forest.
“This level of community support makes a real difference and shows how much people value these forests as places to enjoy nature and the outdoors.”
Mr Capararo said while most visitors do the right thing, illegal dumping remains an
vehicle trips through (or across) the intersection of The Bucketts Way and the Pacific Highway’s northbound lanes.”
The Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection is near the boundary of both the Upper Hunter and Port Stephens state electorates. NOTA approached MPs Dave Layzell (Upper Hunter) and Kate Washington (Port Stephens) for comment about what steps they have taken, or will take, to improve the situation. Both MPs essentially repeated what TfNSW had previously stated, with Mr Layzell adding that the Bucketts Way intersection was located outside the Upper Hunter electorate in the electorate of Port Stephens.
ongoing issue in State Forests, particularly those close to towns and cities.
“Across NSW hundreds of tonnes of household and construction waste, scrap metal and abandoned vehicles are removed from state forests each year at a significant cost to the community,” he said.
“We know forests with strong community involvement tend to experience less dumping, and we’re grateful to regular forest users –bushwalkers, mountain bike clubs, horse riders, dog walkers and adjoining property owners – who help look after these areas.”
q The Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection.
q Volunteers ready for action in Wallaroo State Forest.
RODEO RIDES ON
But the story didn’t end there.
men returned from service in the Army, inspired by American rodeos they had seen staged in the Pacific.
Determined to bring the excitement home, they organised Dungog’s first rodeo in April that year.
Its success led to a second event in November, with early organisers hoping to raise funds to build a town hall.
Despite their efforts, the ambitious goal proved out of reach.
By the 1960s, interest waned and the rodeo faded away.
In 1978, a group of Dungog locals travelled to Sydney to witness a rodeo spectacular staged by advertising identity John Singleton.
Inspired once again, they returned home determined to revive the event.
Within a month, a new committee of 29 members was formed, and the modern Dungog Rodeo was born in 1979.
“It was a roaring success,” organisers recall, despite the enormous effort required.
In those early years, all equipment had to be
transported from Maitland, with heavy chutes loaded and unloaded by hand.
Over time, the committee built its own infrastructure, including chutes, fencing and a large shed constructed in 1986, making the job far more manageable.
Since then, the rodeo has gone from strength to strength, supporting charities such as the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, the Blind Foundation and the Heart Foundation.
Today, proceeds are directed towards local causes, keeping the benefits within the community.
While some traditions, including street parades and rodeo balls, have fallen away due to rising costs and volunteer shortages, the heart of the event remains unchanged.
Now in its 47th year of the modern era, the Dungog Easter Rodeo continues to draw crowds of 6,000 to 8,000 people.
Set within the natural amphitheatre of the Dungog
Construction begins on renewable energy zone
FROM Page 1 FROM Page 1
finance, operate and maintain the network infrastructure.
Ausgrid will upgrade its electricity network in the Hunter region (between Kurri Kurri and Muswellbrook) to provide an additional one gigawatt of network transfer capacity by 2028, enabling up to 1.8GW of generation and storage projects.
Energy Minister Penny Sharpe visited Kurri Kurri last week to meet workers and see the beginning of construction.
“Upgrading this critical
infrastructure is another step forward in securing clean, affordable and reliable energy for households and businesses as ageing coalfired power stations retire,” she said.
“This project will unlock hundreds of local jobs and boost the economy in the Hunter region.
“The renewable energy sector directories open another door for local businesses to participate in the growing pipeline of energy projects across the state.”
The project is expected
Make
to create 590 jobs during construction, with a further 220 local jobs once operational.
“It is a great day when you can announce hundreds of new jobs coming to our local area,” said Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr.
“I would strongly encourage locals to make every effort to be a part of this exciting time in upgrading our electricity system network.”
EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey said the start of construction is a “major milestone for energy security in NSW”.
“We are proud that 90 percent of the ongoing jobs are expected to be filled by locals,” she said.
“The Hunter region has a rich history when it comes to energy in NSW, and the REZ will ensure it remains a major player in future electricity generation.”
The network infrastructure project will connect an additional 1.8 GW of new renewable generation and storage projects.
It includes:
- upgrading approximately 85km subtransmission lines
- installing 18km of new underground fibre optic communications cable
- building two new energy hubs in Muswellbrook LGA (Sandy Creek and Antiene), and
- upgrading existing substations, including the one at Kurri Kurri
The Hunter-Central Coast Network Infrastructure Project is the first REZ project to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires instead of building all new transmission lines.
Dr Helen Nugent AC, the Independent Chairman of
Showground, it offers a full day of action-packed entertainment.
This year’s rodeo will be held on Easter Saturday, 4 April.
the Ausgrid Board, said, “As Australia’s first Distribution REZ, Ausgrid is proud to lead the way in demonstrating how we can play a key role in the energy transition.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work Ausgrid has done over the past 12 months to plan this project – and importantly to carry out extensive engagement with landowners, residents and local businesses.
“We look forward to our solution providing ongoing benefits for the Hunter region, for generations to come.”
Land
Explore our events and services near you.
q The crowd at last year’s Dungog Rodeo.
PATERSON Community Builders (PCB) representatives Julie and Andrew Overton attended an international communitybuilding conference in Goa, India from 27 to 30 January.
“Goa’s cultural diversity, scenic environment and historical richness of being a Portuguese colony for over 450 years was a vibrant backdrop for the gathering focused on learning and
community exchange,” they said in a statement.
The Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) International Festival was convened by social entrepreneur
Peter Kenyon OAM, who facilitated the development of Paterson’s Community Development Plan with Rural Aid during 2025.
The conference brought people from around the
world who practice and promote communityled, strengths focused community development, including attendees from Canada, USA, UK, India and Australia.
Julie presented on the work that the Paterson community is currently undertaking and outlined the area’s plans for the future.
Dungog Shire Council
Nationals urged to ‘come clean’ over gun reform
NSW MINISTER for Police Yasmin Catley is calling on the NSW Liberals and Nationals to “come clean” about a plan to “water down” the state’s new gun laws passed in the wake of the Bondi terrorist attack.
Minister Catley cited comments made on radio by Shadow Minister Anthony Roberts (Liberals), which suggested that the Coalition intends to move amendments to the firearms reforms.
The reforms passed by Parliament include:
• A cap limiting individuals to four firearms (with exemptions for primary producers up to ten);
• Restrictions on straightpull, pump-action and leverrelease firearms;
• Reduced magazine capacity for Category A and B firearms;
• Mandatory gun club membership for licence holders;
• Stronger safe storage inspections and compliance requirements;
• An audit of existing firearms licences;
• A gun buyback scheme in partnership with the Commonwealth.
Ms Catley said the Coalition must be upfront about exactly which reforms they wish to amend.
“After the worst antisemitic terror attack our state has ever seen, we strengthened our gun laws to reduce risk and protect the community,” she said.
“If the Liberals and Nationals are planning to water down these laws, they need to say so plainly.
“Which safeguards do they want to remove? Which limits do they want to weaken?”
In a statement to News Of The Area, NSW Nationals leader Gurmesh Singh clarified his position.
“It is widely acknowledged that the new firearms laws have many loopholes and unintended consequences,” he said.
“For example, shortening the maximum licence period from five years to two years puts into limbo many lawabiding citizens who now face uncertainty about when they need to renew their licences, or if their licences are still valid.
“Two months since the laws passed parliament,
we’ve yet to hear even a whisper from the Minns Labor Government about the regulations that will sit alongside the new laws.
“The laws don’t come into effect until these regulations are written and will form the basis of how the laws will operate in practice.
“We will commit to fixing the laws once the Government actually finishes writing them.”
Mr Singh says firearms owners across regional NSW, as well as the small businesses and clubs that support them, are struggling with uncertainty caused by “rushed legislation”.
“We’re seeing community meetings with hundreds of people venting their anger and frustration at the Minns Labor Government's mismanagement of this issue.
“Across regional NSW, we’re seeing record pest pressure with wild pigs, deer, rabbits and other pests wreaking havoc across the landscape.
“The government should be helping farmers to deal with these pests, not make them the scapegoats for terrorism.”
We encourage residents to take a look and share any comments , ideas or suggestions during the exhibition period .
To review the policy and provide feedback, please visit our website: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au
q Julie and Andrew Overton attended the international conference in Goa, India earlier this year. Photo: PCB.
q The reforms include a cap limiting individuals to four firearms, with exemptions for primary producers up to ten. Photo: Michael Kemp MP.
CSIRO unveils $3M upgrade to energy lab
THE CSIRO has officially launched the $3 million upgrade of the Renewable Energy Integration Facility (REIF) at its Energy Centre in Newcastle.
The national science agency says the upgrade will significantly expand Australia’s capability to test, validate and commercialise technologies needed for a more sustainable, reliable and secure electricity system.
The expanded facility includes a suite of advanced capabilities, including the ability to simulate microgrids and grid faults, test inverter performance under realworld conditions and run large-scale experiments combining solar, batteries and electric vehicles.
One of its standout demonstrations is vehicle-to-
grid technology, which uses electric vehicles as flexible batteries to store excess solar energy and return power to the grid during peak periods.
CSIRO’s Chief Executive, Dr Doug Hilton, said the new facility provides a powerful national capability at a time of rapid change in our electricity system.
“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility provides industry, researchers and system operators with an independent laboratory to test how technologies such as wind, solar, batteries and electric vehicles can integrate safely and reliably into the grid,” Dr Hilton said.
“As Australia transitions to a cleaner, more electrified economy, we need the confidence that new energy technologies can operate
safely and reliably across the system. This upgraded facility strengthens Australia’s capability to test exactly that.
“The facility will support more efficient use of electrical infrastructure, ultimately helping improve energy affordability for Australian homes and businesses."
CSIRO Energy Systems Research Program Director Dr John Ward said the new laboratory will help Australia tackle both local and global challenges in the energy transition.
“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility allows us to simulate and stress-test real-world grid conditions, giving us deeper insight into how inverter-based technologies like solar and batteries perform as their share grows across the
electricity system,” Dr Ward said.
“Australia faces unique challenges – from long, remote distribution networks and record levels of rooftop solar, to increasingly volatile weather and rising demand from energy-intensive data centres.
“This facility allows us to work side-by-side with industry and market bodies to design innovative solutions.
“The facility also supports Australian innovation and manufacturing by providing a rigorous, independent environment to evaluate new technologies before they reach market,” he said.
The facility is open to external industry and research organisations for collaboration and
q Demonstrating Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology in CSIRO's Renewable Energy Integration Facility.
commercialisation projects that help address energy sector challenges.
Expressions of interest should be directed to EnergyEOI@csiro.au.
Australian start-ups and small to medium enterprises are encouraged to explore support through CSIRO’s Kick-Start Program. The Renewable Energy Integration Facility upgrade was made possible with funding from the Department of Education’s Trailblazer Universities Program.
Expressions of interest open for Volunteer Grants
FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging not-forprofit organisations to apply for funding under the Australian Government’s 2025–26 Volunteer Grants Program, with expressions of interest now open.
Volunteer Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible community organisations that rely on volunteers.
The program is designed to strengthen local volunteering by
helping organisations remove barriers to participation and better support the people who give their time to serve our community.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our region,” Ms Penfold said.
“From sporting clubs and service organisations to emergency response groups and community associations, volunteers keep Lyne connected and functioning.
“These grants – albeit small in amount – do provide practical
support to ensure they have the tools they need.”
Funding can be used for items and services that directly support volunteers and volunteering activities, including:
- Communication equipment such as laptops, tablets, and radios
- IT software and technology upgrades
- Volunteer insurance
- Training and support materials
- Equipment to assist specific
volunteer cohorts, including young people, seniors, First Nations volunteers, veterans, and people with disability
Eligible organisations must be not-for-profit and demonstrate that they rely on volunteers to deliver their services.
Expressions of interest must be submitted to Ms Penfold’s office by 5:00pm on Wednesday 1 April.
The form is available via Ms Penfold’s website under the ‘How I
COST OF LIVING ASSISTANCE
Can Help’ tab.
“Lyne has a proud culture of volunteerism,” Ms Penfold said.
“I encourage all eligible organisations to put forward an expression of interest so we can ensure our local groups receive their fair share of the funding available to the Lyne electorate.”
For further information, organisations can contact Ms Penfold’s electorate office.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.
Weed action program gets an update
FOUR-YEAR funding is being made available to local organisations to combat the impact of priority weeds, updating a previously annual grant program.
The new $40.7 million NSW Weeds Action Program (WAP) is a key component of the NSW Government’s Biosecurity Action Plan, with funding being provided to 97 Local Control Authorities (LCA).
Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “The NSW Government Weeds Action Program’s four-year grant model provides certainty in budgeting, giving local councils and other control authorities the ability to put boots on the ground, retain staff and train new
weed biosecurity officers across NSW.
“This network of biosecurity officers sustains the surveillance, eradication and containment efforts on key high-risk weeds, including parthenium weed, alligator weed and frogbit to protect our valuable farming lands.
“Our Government has modernised the Weeds Action Program to ensure it can effectively contribute to delivering our Biosecurity Action Plan by delivering trained biosecurity officers across the state who can confidently undertake emergency responses.”
Aside from environmental benefits, Ms Moriarty said the updated program has significant financial upsides.
“Across NSW, the local control councils will invest an extra $2.19 for every dollar invested in our Government’s $40.7 million program,” she said.
“Every dollar the program spends is keeping our state free of Parthenium weed and that delivers $777 in benefits through increased agricultural productivity, reduced health impacts and environmental protection.
“For every dollar spent eradicating tropical soda apple there is a productivity return of $410 and every dollar spent eradicating Hudson pear returns $59 to the community.”
The new funding model was introduced after a review into biosecurity to improve its implementation across the state, cut red tape and provide greater certainty to LCAs.
The program supports targeted surveillance and rapid biosecurity responses, and is building a robust statewide network to prevent, eradicate and contain priority weeds by undertaking a range of actions, such as:
• Preventing Parthenium Weed entering NSW
• Preventing spread with the aim of eradicating Parkinsonia and Tropical Soda Apple weeds
• Working with landholders to contain alligator weed, frogbit, Hudson pear, Harrisia cactus and sticky nightshade
• Instigating surveillance and rapid response resources to detect new high-risk weeds early and act quickly to stop their spread
These high-risk weed species, which can cause significant environmental and agricultural damage and pose serious health risks to livestock, wildlife and people, require urgent action to stop them from becoming more widely established.
The new Weeds Action Program strengthens weed biosecurity by providing stable funding for risk-based planning, compliance and education, and ensures accountability from the LCAs through biannual reporting and evaluation.
The modernisation of the program also includes increasing collaboration between government agencies, councils, and farmers groups.
Led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the new four-year program will be delivered in partnership with Local Land Services.
q Parthenium Weed. Photo: NSW Gov.
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
BLUE MURDER MOTEL
ABC TV, 7.30pm
McLeod’s Daughters co-stars Michala Banas and Brett Tucker (both pictured) reunite for this Kiwi murder mystery with a kooky twist. Recently retired from the Sydney homicide squad for reasons they’re not willing to discuss, married couple Vinny (Banas) and Cole (Tucker) head across the ditch for a fresh start, buying a rundown retro motel in a seaside town near Auckland. It’s not quite the dream they had in mind though – the plumbing’s a disaster, the sign is permanently askew… and there’s a dead body in one of the rooms.
FRIDAY, March 6
Dogs. (PG, R) 2.00 Dog Park. (Ml, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Mal, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG,
ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh visits a colourful slice of Malta. 8.35 Professor T. (PGa) Professor T is out of prison. 9.25 Tonight At The Museum. (PG, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.
9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)
10.25 Dog Park. (M, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)
12.00 Smother. (Mls, R)
1.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.45 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
TUESDAY
MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT
NBN, 7.30pm
Rolling green hills, tranquil bird song and luxurious accommodation – it might sound relaxing but there’s no surer way to ensure chaos and conflict among Married at First Sight than the series’ infamous Retreat Week. Like a days-long dinner party, the couples are encouraged to mingle, gain a fresh perspective and find out if their connections really work outside the four walls of their Sydney apartments. This year, it’s a bad joke that has sent the experiment into meltdown – with the fallout isolating Rachel and Steven from the rest of the group. At the final drinks night, Bec (pictured) is caught at the centre of the drama as the lingering tensions reach an explosive conclusion.
(PGa, R) 11.05 The Toy Hospital. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Marseille: Birth Of A Megapolis. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World.
9.25 Fly With Me. (Ml, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Sisi. (PGa)
12.05 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY
9.00 The
Seven’s National News At
CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA
“I’m not really drawn to heroes,” admits actor Hugo Weaving. Perhaps most famous The ’s menacing Agent Smith, the Sydney-based star aims to find the humanity within the fractured and complex men he plays on screen and stage – be it English cricket captain Douglas Jardine in Bodyline or monstrous father David in Patrick Melrose. Strolling around Sydney with host Virginia Trioli (pictured left, with Weaving) for this brilliant arts-focused interview series, Weaving shares insights on his career, iconic roles and creative process. A fascinating figure who refuses the Hollywood life, Weaving finds a sense of place and belonging in telling Australian stories.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! (2008, PGls, R) A young woman invites three of her mother’s former boyfriends to her upcoming wedding on a Greek island. Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth. 10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R) A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren. 12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Addy and Colette feel the heat.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Brisbane Broncos v Penrith Panthers.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R) An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt.
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)
A couple’s perfect Adelaide life is interrupted when a family tragedy strikes and they’re forced to return to Darwin.
8.50 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) Commissioner Selwyn Patterson is shot while celebrating 50 years of police service at the yacht club.
9.50 This England. (M, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. 10.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
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 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Neil And Martin’s Bon Voyage. (Final)
8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (R)
9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R)
10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. 12.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men.
3.15 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
4.15 Going Places. (PGl, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session. 9.00 Women’s Test Cricket: Dinner Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far. 9.20 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 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 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R) A family plans a wedding. Steve Martin, Diane Keaton.
10.40 MOVIE: Moonstruck. (1987, PGal, R) Cher.
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 Australia. (PGad, R) A loving deaf couple try to break through a cavoodle’s separation anxiety. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. After years of impasse, an intervention is necessary for a Hunters Hill couple. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGs, R) Olympia and Matty each put together their own collateral for Julian, hoping to regain his trust after he makes a shocking discovery. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.35 Discovering Film. 7.30 The Remains Of The Day. (1993, PG) 10.00 Alcarràs. (2022, M,
12.15pm Mass. (2021, M) 2.20 The
2.55 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.50 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 6.35 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 8.30 Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 11.50 Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story) (2015, MA15+, French) 1.35am Black Swan. (2010, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, March 8
6.30 Compass.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (Final, Ml) It’s the day of Samantha and Steve’s wedding.
9.00 This England. (Final, MA15+l) The country continues to cope with COVID.
10.05 Blue Murder Motel. (PG, R) Follows two married Australian detectives.
10.55 Top End Bub. (PG, R)
11.20 MOVIE: Partisan. (2015, MA15+v, R)
1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of 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 Meet The Hedgehogs. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Pompeii: Life In The City With Dan Snow. (Premiere) 9.15 Ancient Empires. (MA15+v, R) 10.55 Roberta Flack. (PGa, R) 12.25 Jackie And Lee: A Tale Of Two Sisters. (Ma, R)
1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1.
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 8.15 Discovering Film. 9.00 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 10.50 While We’re Young. (2014, M) 12.40pm The Time Bandits. (1981, 6.35 Meek’s Cutoff. The Hurt Locker. (2008, MA15+) Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 1.15am 4.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG)
8.00 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R)
10.00 The Hunters. (Mav, R)
11.30 Border Security: International. (PGadl)
12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights. 12.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
Hallows: Part 1. (2010, M) 10.25 MOVIE: Three Thousand Years Of Longing. (2022, M) 12.35am Prodigal Son. (Premiere) 2.15 MOVIE: Just A Farmer. (2024, M) 4.20
6.30 10 News+.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: Rocky Mountain Murder Spree. (MA15+asv) 11.15 The First 48. (Mav, R)
Wild Cards. (Mv, R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
MONDAY, March 9
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return)
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Other People’s Money. (Ml)
11.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R) 12.40 Kate And Larapinta. 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 2. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly
MOVIES (32)
6am Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 6.20 Mosley. (2019, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Discovering Film. 1.05 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 3.05 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 4.55 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 6.40 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 8.30 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 11.10 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+, German) 1.35am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 10
(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Exit. (Mals, R) 11.55 The Carnival. (MA15+l, R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 3. 3.15 Safe Home. (Malv, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (Premiere) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.
10.10 The Agenda Setters. (Return) 11.10 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls, R)
12.10 Conviction. (MA15+a, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 100% Footy. (Return, Mal) Features the latest rugby league news. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (Ml) 11.30
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.05 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.10 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 10.00 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 12.35pm Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 3.00 Mosley. (2019, PG) 4.45 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 6.40 Summerland. (2020, PG) 8.30 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.15 And So It Goes. (2014, M) Midnight Secretary. (2002, MA15+) 2.00 Late Programs.
Morning Programs. 1.30pm Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Melbourne Supersprint.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane makes a huge decision.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) At Jake’s father’s funeral, grief helps clarify his feelings for Amy. 10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.10 Dirty John. (Premiere, MA15+v) 2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
(62) 7TWO (62)
Start your day with coffee and brekky from 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, and great hospitality all day. Open Tuesday to Sunday
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip. (Premiere)
8.25 Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (PG)
9.25 Prisoner 951. (M)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Face To Face. (Mals)
11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malv)
12.45 MOVIE: Cold Water. (2023, PGa)
1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 4. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
10.10 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R)
11.10 Unfiltered. (Return, M)
11.40 The Agenda Setters.
12.40 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 Naked City: HITMEN. (MA15+dlvv)
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Freddy And The Eighth. (Return, Ml)
11.30 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
7MATE (64)
6am Black
Narcissus. (1947, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.15 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) 12.20pm Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.15 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 4.00 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 5.50 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.30 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 10.40 Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.
March 12
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00
At The Museum. (PGa, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (Ml, R) 10.55 Creative Types. (PG, R) 11.30 QI. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) 2.00 Parliament. 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
(R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)
8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma)
9.35 A Spy Among Friends.
10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.45 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 12.15pm Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 2.25 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 4.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Unforgiven. (1992, M) 10.55 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 1.25am Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 4.35 The Movie Show. 5.10 Discovering Film.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)
8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ml) A driver tries to U-turn on the Harbour Bridge.
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.
10.30 To Be Advised.
12.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta
7MATE (64)
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51)
DINING
OUTDOOR
DEAR Jasminda,
I am doing a complete clean out of my home, but I can't decide what to keep and what to cull.
How do I make these decisions?
Claudia D.
Dear Claudia,
I am the wrong person to ask about this.
When I decide to clean my bedroom, I enter the zone of nostalgia.
Soon, I am surrounded by clothes from the 1990s, boxes of electrical cords that seem important (and yet I have no idea what they belong to), a boxed wedding dress, letters from friends, artworks that no longer suit our decor, but hold
fond memories, the kids' baby teeth, orders of service from every funeral I've attended, and childhood teddy bears amongst other items.
No matter how hard I try, I'm unable to take the next step, which is to realise that these are items I will never use again, except to remove them from drawers and put them back with every spring clean.
Marie Kondo would weep over my inability to declutter.
With each item, she would ask if it brought me joy, and I would not have a sufficient answer, except to ponder if joy is really what we are after when we rearrange our belongings.
I suspect it is not the freeing nature of joy, but the sentimental pull of nostalgia.
One of my sons has inherited this sense of longing.
He has it much worse than I do.
A couple of times I have tried to give away some things from his childhood - his Lego, a jar of shells, a size 5 hand-knitted jumper - and he looks at me as though I am
PUZZLES
trying to sell one of his kidneys.
My daughter, on the other hand, is a Marie Kondo loyalist.
She will throw anything away without a hint of reflection.
Cards, clothes, trophies. She tosses them with abandon.
Whenever she does a cull, I head to the bin and do some surreptitious retrieving.
Somewhere between these extremes is probably where you want to be with your complete cleanout, and there are some great strategies for achieving your goal.
The best one I've found is to clear everything out of the room and then sort your things into four groups: Keep, Move, Donate/Sell and Chuck.
Start with one cupboard and don't move on until you have finished.
If you are trying to work out what to keep, interrogate your reasons.
If it's a pair of shorts, for example, that you've kept for 10 years because you're going to squeeze into them one day, let
yourself move on from that thought.
If it's a wedding dress that carries nostalgic memories and you have room for it, you have every right to hold onto it. Make your decisions quickly. DO NOT SIT DOWN (this is important). As soon as you sit on the floor
and open up that box of photos and letters, Coldplay's Warning Sign playing in the background, you're on your way to an emotionallyoverloaded situation that no amount of storage boxes and Glen 20 will fix.
Carpe diem, Jasminda
By Paul DORIN
Kids Boot Camp 068
Bottleneck cleared at Hexham
THE long-awaited widening of the Hexham Straight is complete, clearing a bottleneck infamous across the Hunter.
Motorists can now travel on three lanes in each direction, along the full sixkilometre stretch.
The speed limit has also been increased to 80 kilometres per hour.
With all lanes now open, teams are carrying out minor finishing work across the project including landscaping and signage.
These finishing works will include upgrades to a reserve along the Hunter River, comprising upgraded parking,
seating and information signage that shares the cultural heritage of the area from an Indigenous perspective.
The completed project includes new twin bridges over Ironbark Creek to support the widened roadway, upgraded and modernised traffic lights at the intersection of the bypass and Old Maitland Road, a new U-turn facility, and improved pedestrian crossings and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care.
“I’m thrilled to announce the completion of the longawaited Hexham Straight Widening project,” said
Minister for Transport Catherine King on Friday.
“This project is delivering real benefits for people in the Hunter including safer journeys and improved travel times.”
The M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and Hexham Straight Widening is one of the largest transport infrastructure commitments in the region’s history.
The Federal Government is contributing over $1.79 billion towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing $448 million.
NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the
upgrade is a “game-changer” for the broader region.
“Like so many people across the Hunter, I’ve sat in traffic at Hexham frustrated at the crawling speed and bottlenecks.
“I know firsthand how disruptive and exhausting those delays have been for commuters, families and freight operators.
“Today, that changes.
“It (the upgrade) will improve travel times, strengthen freight productivity and play a major role in keeping our region moving as it continues to grow.”
More support for literacy program
THE Mutual Bank has again committed funds to support the Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program across the Dungog Shire.
Following a $540 donation to the program in 2025, it has now been confirmed the Hunter-based bank will continue its support for 2026 and beyond.
“Thanks to Maddi Beasley at our Dungog branch for securing $500 for 2026 and for the following two years as well,” said Anne
Higgins, Chairperson of Dungog Early Literacy.
The Dungog Early Literacy program provides free, ageappropriate books to children from birth to age five.
It is part of the internationally recognised Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which sends monthly books to participating children, building strong literacy foundations and supporting school readiness Anne said the
program sends kids off to school with a “rich literacy foundation”.
“We are very grateful to The Mutual Bank for providing these funds which will support children on the program for a year,” said Anne.
“We now have 126 babies enrolled which means we need over $13,000 to fund them all each year.”
Dungog Shire Council, community groups, businesses and individual sponsors help maintain funding
for the program.
One key source of program funds is the “Books & More” second hand bookshop on Dowling Street, Dungog.
“There are lots of great books for sale at $5 each… pop in and have a look,” Anne said.
Anyone who wants to support the program through donations or sponsorship can contact Anne at dungogearlyliteracy@ gmail.com or by calling 0403029181.
Country troubadour to take the Royal stage
music troubadour
Andrew Swift is bringing his Lucky Stars tour to the Royal Hotel Dungog on Friday 13 March.
“Audiences can expect a journey through love, nostalgia and tales from the road,” the Royal said in a statement.
“Whether you come for the volume or the vulnerability, this will be a show not to miss.”
Swift has four ARIA #1 albums and four CMAA Golden Guitar Awards to his name – most recently Male Artist of the Year in 2023.
Accolades have come thick and fast for Swift since his foray into country music some years ago.
A year after his appearance as a top ten finalist in the renowned Toyota Star Maker competition, his ARIA #1 debut album ‘Call Out For The Cavalry’ cemented him as one of Australia’s most discerning storytellers and earned him four Golden Guitar nominations in 2019 – from which he took home gongs for Alt Country Album of the Year and New Talent of the Year.
New recruits for transport and roads agency
SEVENTY-ONE new apprentices and trainees are kicking off their careers at Transport for NSW worksites this month.
From filling potholes to rebuilding flood-damaged roads, planning major works and maintaining heavy vehicles, the new Roads Maintenance and Resilience recruits will join and support frontline teams strengthening the state’s transport network.
Following group inductions in Wollongong, Newcastle and Dubbo, the new recruits will soon get
their hands on the tools.
They join an existing group of 92 apprentices and trainees progressing through the program from previous intakes.
Participants have the opportunity to earn and learn on the job while developing practical skills in their chosen field, from civil construction and bridge maintenance to heavy diesel mechanics, business, finance and project management.
New recruit Maddi Ormsby said the Bridge Construction
and Maintenance apprenticeship appealed to her because of the opportunity to do hands-on work outdoors.
“There’s such a great mix of bridges we look after, everything from concrete and timber structures to heritage ones,” Maddi said.
“We don’t just maintain them, we get the chance to build them too, and we work across all sorts of locations.
“I’ve only been in the job a few weeks, and I’ve already had the opportunity to travel and work in Singleton, Muswellbrook,
Dunmore and Dungog.”
Matt Fuller, Deputy Secretary for Road Maintenance and Resilience at Transport for NSW, said the program gives “people real skills, real experience and a recognised qualification while boosting the capability of our workforce across NSW”.
“As they build their skills on live sites, they’re helping lift the resilience of our transport network and supporting the teams who keep NSW moving,” he said.
Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said, “It
is fantastic to see new apprentices and trainees starting their careers here in our region, including at the Waratah Depot.
“These young workers are gaining practical skills on live projects while helping maintain the roads and bridges our local community depends on.
“This investment strengthens our local workforce and ensures we have the capability to deliver the infrastructure our growing communities need.”
Described as “an Australian songwriting heavyweight - with a powerfully evocative voice to match” by Country Update, Swift is undoubtedly a force to reckoned with.
Both a wayward vagabond and a sweetheart, his songs brood on gutwrenching heartache and revel in limitless joy.
Swift will be supported at the Royal by special guest Imogen Hall.
For further information, contact Howard Glenn on 0409 038 452.
COUNTRY
q Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison. Photo: Tim Crakanthorp FB.
q One key source of program funds is the “Books & More” second hand bookshop on Dowling Street.
q Andrew Swift is playing the Royal Hotel.
q Bridge Construction and Maintenance apprentice Maddi Ormsby. Photo: NSW Gov.
Hunter trainee lands port role
HUNTER trainee Tilley
Murgatroyd is taking her first steps into a maritime career as a Port Officer with Port Authority of NSW, after completing a hands-on traineeship delivered through a unique collaboration with Port of Newcastle and Svitzer.
Through the Newcastlebased industry traineeship, Ms Murgatroyd rotated across towage, pilotage support, on-water safety and port operations, gaining rare insight into the roles that keep one of the nation’s busiest ports operating
safely and efficiently.
“Training in maritime operations here in the Hunter has been an incredible opportunity,” Ms Murgatroyd said.
“Hands-on training like this is rare, and learning to operate vessels across different conditions, including day and night operations, has given me real on-water experience and the confidence to start my maritime career in Newcastle,” she said.
Port Authority Chief Operating Officer John Finch described Tilley as an
exceptional trainee, noting that she had been offered a 12-month contract as a Port Officer, based in Newcastle.
“This traineeship demonstrates how collaborative, handson training can open meaningful pathways into the maritime sector,” John said.
“By rotating across three organisations, trainees gain direct insight into the realities of maritime work and the teamwork, and specialist skills required to operate a safe, busy port.
“It is a merit-based
Dungog Shire Council
Gresford School of Arts Hall
Annual General Meeting
The Gresford School of Arts Hall is holding its Annual General Meeting (AGM ) and everyone in the communit y is invited to attend
Tuesday 17 March 7pm
Gresford School of Arts Hall
The Hall is at the heart of man y local events , gatherings and celebrations , and it thri ves because of the people who support it
If you’ve ever attended an event , hired the hall , or simpl y value having this important communit y space in Gresford , this is your opportunit y to get involved and help guide its future
New faces and fresh ideas are always welcome
pathway that provides a strong foundation for anyone aspiring to work on the water.”
Port of Newcastle Acting CEO Glen Hayward said programs such as this were important to support early-career entrants and strengthen the Hunter’s future workforce.
“Port of Newcastle, Port Authority, and Svitzer each play a vital role in the maritime supply chain, and this program reflects our shared commitment to developing local talent.
“Building the next generation of skilled maritime workers, including raising awareness and interest among women, is critical to developing the workforce required to keep up with the growing economy and the port’s diversified future.”
Svitzer General Manager East Dylan Sheehan said, "Towage is central to keeping Newcastle operating safely and efficiently, and we're proud to help give young people a real understanding of how it works. Supporting trainees helps to build the local skills pipeline and ensure the Hunter has the maritime workforce it needs into the future."
Knockout secured
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
of hosting major events.”
Founded in 1971, the event is centred around creating opportunities for talented Indigenous players to get into state level rugby league.
Last year, the Newcastle Yowies won the knockout, hence the event being hosted in the Hunter Valley.
Over its 55 years, the Knockout has become one of the biggest sporting and cultural events in Australia.
“This event will be more than a sporting competition. [It is] helping local families
experience a significant cultural event right here at home,” Cr Anderson said.
“It will inspire young people by showcasing our region’s capacity to host major events and celebrate the strength and leadership of Aboriginal communities.”
Cr Anderson expects that local businesses will see the benefits of so many people visiting the area.
“Major events like this do more than fill accommodation.
“They build community confidence in an area, bring people together and help create the sense of pride and belonging that strong communities are built on.”
Dungog Shire Council Management Committee Position Available
The James Theatre
Dungog Shire Council is inviting applications from local residents of all ages , skills , and backgrounds to join the James Theatre Section Committee
There is currentl y one vacanc y, with a fouryear term of appointment Committee members help guide the operation of this much -loved communit y venue and are re uired to follow Council ’s Code of Conduct and relevant policies in accordance with Section of the Local Government Act
Located on Brown Street , the historic James Theatre hosts a wide range of communit y events and acti vities It’s a great opportunit y to get involved and support a valued local space .
Application forms and more information are available on our website or from Council ’s Administration Building
For more information and to express your interest, please visit our website: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au Applications close 20 March, 2026
q Port Authority of NSW Port Officer Tilley Murgatroyd. Photo: Port Authority of NSW.
q The Koori Knockout will be held at King Park in Raymond Terrace.
Newcastle Football withdraws teams
A MAJOR shake-up may impact the way football competitions are delivered in the Hunter region.
Newcastle Football has advised the neighbouring zones of Macquarie Football and Hunter Valley Football that it will not enter its clubs in Inter-District competitions in 2025.
“Our clubs will feature in competitions solely within our zone,” Newcastle Football said in a statement.
“After many years, we have recognised that our zone now has divergent plans as well as differing governance and operational policies.”
While Inter-District
competitions look likely to be impacted, the statement indicated that Newcastle Football remains “passionately obliged” to managing the Zone Football League which features clubs from Newcastle, Macquarie, Hunter Valley and Mid North Coast football zones.
In response to the news,
Hunter Valley Football and Macquarie Football have written to Northern NSW Football to request a mediation session.
Board members and General Managers of the three zones will be invited.
“Thousands of players from across the three zones have already paid their registration fees and started training for the upcoming 2026 season in good faith, on the understanding that they were playing in the three-zone competition that has operated successfully for over 30 years,” said a joint statement from Macquarie Football chairman Doug Ross and Hunter Valley Football president Rick Allen.
“Our priority must be these players and not bringing the game we love into disrepute.
“These players should have the opportunity to play in the competitions they signed up for.
“Both Hunter Valley and Macquarie Football will enter the mediation session with this goal as their priority.”
The community football season was scheduled to start in late April.
Paterson Golf Club
SATURDAY 28TH FEBRUARY
INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD
FIELD | 34 members DIVISION
1 (<15) | Winner David Bambach (9) 39 Points, Runner
Up Jordan Wilkinson (6) 38 Points, 3rd Place Jarrod Roberts (14) 36 Points DIVISION 2 (16-
36) | Winner Fred Cox (21)
39 Points, Runner Up Michael Cairney (25) 38 Points, 3rd
