REPRESENTATIVES from Dungog Shire Palliative Care volunteers recently attended an invitationonly award presentation in Sydney.
The little local group was nominated for the prestigious 2026 NSW Palliative Care volunteer team of the year award.
During Volunteer Week, on Wednesday 20 May, Margaret Jones, Lynne Moseley, Joy Berry and Annette O’Neill travelled to the NSW State Library, where the award ceremony was held.
Palliative Care organisations from all over
02
Eve NESMITH
0494 613 397
editor@newsofthearea.com.au
EDITOR
Historic home in the heart of Dungog
A FEDERATION residence, where classic charm meets modern comfort, has been listed in Dungog.
Set amid beautifully established gardens, a sweeping verandah and grand proportions create a sense of space and sophistication rarely found in contemporary homes.
OUTLETS
Where
Clarence Town Clarence Town IGA
Clarence Town Post Office
Clarence Town Bowling Club
Paterson
Paterson Friendly Grocer
Paterson Service Station
Paterson Country Cafe/Newsagent
Vacy
Vacy General Store
Dungog
Dungog Information Centre
Dungog Newsagent
Lovey's IGA
Dowling General Store
Dungog RSL
Long Room Cafe
Hidden Valley Clothing
Bottlemart
Farmers Warehouse
Royal Hotel
Gresford
Gresford Foodworks
Gresford Garage & Rural
Gresford Butchery Providore
Known as Gilchrist House, this iconic property carries a rich local history, named after a respected doctor who lived and practised here in the early 1900s. Today, it proudly showcases the finest features of its era - polished timber floorboards, soaring timber ceilings, original light fittings, a graceful central hallway, and striking stone fireplaces. Thoughtfully restored to honour its heritage
cellar, a working well, and abundant storage space, adding yet another layer of character and practicality.
Set on approximately half an acre (approx 2021sqm) of landscaped gardens with heritage
space, relevance and appropriateness. media@newsofthearea.com.au
roses and mature trees, the property enjoys picturesque views to the Cooreei Hills.
Despite its peaceful setting, it's just a short stroll to the centre of town. Dungog continues
to grow as a vibrant and welcoming rural community, offering an enviable lifestyle within easy reach of Newcastle and Maitland, and only a scenic drive to Barrington Tops or the stunning Mid North Coast beaches.
A few of its many features include a master suite with dressing room, ensuite and fireplace; formal lounge and dining with combustion fireplace; and an expansive wraparound verandah.
One of Dungog's most admired homes, offering exceptional potential as a stunning family residence. For more information, contact Elders Real Estate R&R Property Group Dungog on (02) 4992 1208.
Five green stars for Newcastle Airport
By Sis HIGGINS
WORLD Environment Day arrived with a major milestone for Newcastle Airport, with its Terminal Expansion becoming the first airport terminal in Australia to achieve a 5 Star Green Star Buildings ‘As Built’ certification.
under ’s new rating tool.
The certification, awarded by the Green Building Council of Australia,utilised its greenstar rating tool to recognise the sustainability initiatives incorporated into the terminal expansion.
These included energy efficiency, operational performance, environmental impact reduction and sustainable building practices.
Green Building Council of Australia CEO Davina Rooney said the achievement set a new standard for the aviation sector.
“Newcastle Airport has demonstrated how major infrastructure can reduce its environmental impact while creating lasting value for passengers, the community and the region,” Ms Rooney said.
“We congratulate the team on setting a new
benchmark for sustainable airport development in Australia."
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said sustainability had been a key consideration throughout the project.
“We were undertaking a major capital expansion and that gave us permission to fundamentally rethink how we design assets, source energy, finance projects and plan for long-term operations,” Mr Horton said.
“We see sustainability as integral to running a better airport for our region, with our sustainability strategy extending well beyond the terminal itself.
“We’ve achieved net zero Scope one and two emissions six years ahead of target, transitioned to 100 per cent renewable electricity and our solar installations now generate between 20 and 30 per cent of the airport’s electricity demand.”
Newcastle Airport Chair Samantha Martin-Williams said the certification was a significant achievement for both the airport and the Hunter region.
“This certification recognises Newcastle Airport’s commitment to delivering infrastructure
that supports both economic growth and environmental responsibility, while
Authorised by Alison Penfold MP, National Party of Australia, 144 Victoria St, Taree NSW 2430.
a new benchmark for sustainable airport development in Australia,”
Ms Martin-Williams said. Since the international terminal was completed last year, Newcastle Airport has expanded its domestic and international network.
q Artist’s rendering of the Newcastle Airport Terminal Expansion. Photo: supplied.
RSV virus is nothing to sneeze at
As RSV Awareness Week draws to a close, the Australian Medical Association is urging Australians to speak with their GP about vaccination against respiratory syncytial virus.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was not just a winter nuisance but
could cause severe illness, hospitalisation and death.
“This week is an important reminder not to be complacent about a virus that can have serious consequences,” Dr McMullen said. “Too many people still think RSV is just a bad cold, but for some Australians it can be far more serious than that.”
Dr McMullen said there
were now funded vaccines for people who needed protection most, with the federal government this year adding the vaccine to the National Immunisation Program for people aged 75 years and older. Last year, the maternal vaccine was added to the program.”
Dr McMullen said the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing illness was
very evident.
“More than 225,000 mothers have received the maternal RSV vaccine to protect their babies from serious illness since the vaccines were first made available in February last year. This has resulted in a drop of more than 9 per cent in RSV cases for young children from 86,000 in 2024 to 78,000 in 2025.”
Dr McMullen encouraged people who had concerns or questions about vaccines to speak with their regular GP.
"Through our national Have the Jab Chat campaign we are encouraging people who aren’t sure about vaccines to have a conversation with their trusted GP,” Dr McMullen said.
“[It’s] a good time to
stop, check what protection is available, and have a chat with your GP about what vaccines you might need, including those that protect against flu and COVID-19.
“That conversation matters because vaccine advice is not one-size-fitsall. Your GP can explain what is recommended for you, including whether RSV vaccination should be part of your winter protection plan.”
Caring Dungog team proudly does things differently
FROM Page 1
NSW were considered for the awards.
There were only four groups nominated for the team award, including the Dungog carers.
There are hundreds of organisations in NSW which provide palliative care and related services.
In comparison to some of the large, city-based groups, Dungog’s is a very small organisation.
And they do things totally differently.
Dungog Shire Palliative Care Volunteers supply a free care, transport and linen service.
Local people diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, as well as their carers and family, are helped by the Dungog Volunteers.|
Dungog Client Coordinator, Annette O’Neill said it was “an honour” to be nominated.
The awards were presented by Hebe Thomas, Principal Policy Officer, NSW Ministry of Health, and Felicity Burns, President, Palliative Care NSW.
Individual Volunteer of the year was awarded to Sandra Hiscock from
Southern Highlands Community Hospice.
The Volunteer Team of the year went to Nepean Hawkesbury Supportive and Palliative Care Volunteers.
The Dungog Palliative Care Volunteers welcome new volunteers.
There are a variety of volunteer roles available.
Some, such as driving people to appointments, involve direct contact with clients and carers.
Others are support roles, with no client contact.
Craftspeople can donate items for the Volunteers’ twice-yearly street stalls.
For more information, contact Annette on 0457846806 or email admin@dungogcarers.com.au
NSW public schools
q Volunteers Margaret Jones, Lynne Moseley, Joy Berry and Annette O’Neill with Hebe Thomas, Principal Policy Officer, NSW Ministry of Health, and Felicity Burns, President, Palliative Care NSW. Photo: Palliative Care NSW
No more trout fishing until October
populations for future generations of anglers.
Fishing in these waters during this period carries a standard $500 on-the-spot fine, with maximum penalties potentially reaching $22,000.
COST OF LIVING ASSISTANCE
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Director of Aquaculture and Industry Development Ian Lyall said the seasonal closure remained an important conservation measure.
“Each year, the winter closure plays an essential role in safeguarding our trout fisheries,” Mr Lyall said.
“By temporarily closing trout streams and rivers during the spawning season, we help ensure strong, healthy fish populations for recreational anglers to enjoy well into the future."
While trout streams and rivers closed for the winter period, anglers are still able to fish in the state's trout dams.
Mr Lyall reminded fishers that they must carry a current NSW recreational fishing fee receipt when fishing in trout dams during winter.
“A combined bag limit of five fish and a minimum size limit of 25 centimetres apply to trout or salmon in trout dams, except artificial fly and lure-only dams where the bag limit is two,” he said.
NSW DPIRD advised that Fisheries Officers would patrol inland waterways throughout the closure period to ensure fishers complied with regulations.
q Trout fishing in NSW is now closed. Photo: dpi.nsw.gov.au.
Of The Area News Reader Survey
Dear NOTA reader,
Dear NOTA reader,
Of The Area News Reader Survey
Did you know we publish across eight different areas?
Did you know we publish across eight different areas?
As a family-owned, independent newspaper celebrating 12 years in publication, we’re proud to serve our communities with local news, stories, and information that matter most.
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To help us continue improving and delivering the content you value, we’d love to hear from you. Your feedback will help shape the future of our publications and ensure we’re meeting the needs and interests of our readers.
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Please take a few moments to complete our reader survey and go in the draw to win one of 5 $100 gift vouchers to spend at any of our current advertisers businesses.
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BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
DEATH IN PARADISE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
After initially believing the official line that his late mother’s death was an accident, DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet, pictured) is closer than ever to the truth in this penultimate chapter of the Caribbean crime drama’s 14th season. Given the go-ahead to reopen the investigation, the detective now has the entire Honoré police department helping out. That is, except new Commissioner Sterling Fox (Trieve Blackwood-Cambridge), who is determined to make his presence known on the island. Just as the team starts to make headway in the case, Sterling pulls rank and throws a spanner in the works.
FRIDAY,
June 12
SUNDAY
SOCCER WORLD CUP: AUSTRALIA V TÜRKIYE
SBS, 1pm
As the Socceroos kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign in Vancouver this weekend, fans will be relieved to know that they won’t have to set any alarms for the opening match against Türkiye. This is only the third meeting on the pitch for the two nations – and the first since 2004, when the Crescent Stars prevailed in two friendlies. Marking their sixth consecutive FIFA World Cup, Tony Popovic’s Aussie squad will be hoping not only to record a historic first win against Türkiye, but also to build on their impressive Round of 16 run at Qatar 2022. Niav Owens and Claudio Fabiano host SBS’s live, free and exclusive coverage, while David Basheer (pictured) leads the call.
MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA
It’s the elimination that contestants dread: the taste test. Can they keep cool under pressure? Or will they melt down at the prospect of 48 unlabelled ice-cream scoops? One by one, they’ll need to step forward, choose a bowl and correctly identify the flavour to judges Poh Ling Yeow (pictured), Andy Allen, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli. With jackfruit, tomato and onion in the mix, it’s no easy task. The first four chefs to guess incorrectly will land in round two, where they have 75 minutes to cook a dessert using the 48 ingredients found in the first round, and under-bench staples. It will be a bittersweet departure for one of them.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. (Final) Millie Ross sheds light on garden lighting.
8.30 Shetland. (Malv) The team uncovers the sinister truth behind the facility. Astrid Jakobson goes missing.
9.30 Race Around The World. (PG, R) Six filmmakers travel the world.
10.30 Gruen. (PG, R)
11.10 ABC Late News.
11.25 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
12.10 Love Me. (Final, MA15+s, R)
1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (PG)
8.30 Record-Breaking Highways.
9.35 Michael Palin In North Korea. (R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. (Premiere)
11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 6. 1.20 The Typist. (Mav, R) 2.25 Rainbow Warrior: Murder In The Pacific. (PG, R) 3.20 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 3.55 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. CAN v BIH.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and the team demonstrate some terrific ideas for the house, garden and the kitchen. 8.00 To Be Advised. 12.00 MOVIE: Deadly Rideshare. (2020, Mav, R) A fashion designer develops a bond with a dangerous fellow passenger during a ride-sharing trip. Taylor Spreitler, Danielle Burgess, Amanda Grace Benitez.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Three contestants go head to head in a test of brain power. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 15. Dolphins v Sydney Roosters.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987, Mdlv, R) Two detectives pursue drug traffickers. Mel Gibson.
1.00 Fish Forever. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 10 News+.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa, R) The team helps a couple in Maroubra.
2.10 The Lost Scrolls Of Vesuvius With Alice Roberts. (PG, R)
3.05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)
4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. QAT v SUI.
Death Coast. (Premiere) 9.50 The Americans. 10.40 The Swiping Game. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.
6am The Movie
Show. 7.10 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 9.15
Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.55 Iris. (2001, M) 12.30pm Gosford Park. (2001, M) 3.00 84 Charing Cross Road. (1987, PG) 4.50 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.50 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 8.30 The Big Lebowski. (1998, M) 10.40 Stars At Noon. (2022, MA15+) 1.10am The Tunnel (Part 2) (2001, M) 2.50 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, June 14
6.30 Compass.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Race Around The World. (M) The six filmmakers face harsh challenges.
8.30 Ground Up. (Ml) AFL CEO Alistair is in town to help secure a site for the club’s new Training Centre.
9.00 The Capture. (Mv) Carey is further isolated from those around her.
10.00 Death In Paradise. (PGa, R)
11.00 The Hardacres. (PG, R)
12.30 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Movin’ To The Country. (R)
4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Australia v Turkiye. Replay.
9.30 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits: Dream Teams. (Mals, R)
10.25 Rock Legends. (PGl, R)
10.55 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.
11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 8. 1.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
1.50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)
2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group E. GER v CUW. 5.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group F. NED v JPN.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) An American nomad is caught with medicines.
8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+v, R) A retired CIA black ops operative is forced back into action when his friend is murdered. Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Ashton Sanders. 11.00 To Be Advised.
12.00 Devils. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
The Americans. 10.40 The Swiping Game. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Australia v Turkiye. Replay. 1am Creamerie. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Shopping. 8.30 Better
6am The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.00 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 8.40 Monsieur Verdoux. (1947, PG) 10.55 The Take. (2016, M) 12.35pm Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 2.30 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 4.35 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 6.35 Angel And The Badman. (1947, PG) 8.30 Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985) 10.25 Moonfall. (2022, M) 12.50am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 6. Finals. From Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
9.50 To Be Advised.
12.40 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) A UN diplomat is targeted by assassins.
1.35 Drive TV Presents. (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. (PGa, R) A terrier cross is looking for love.
7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PG) Mary and David need the team’s help to bring their house up to standard so they can move on when they relocate to the mainland. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows paramedics as they respond to calls, including a diver trapped underwater by a piece of concrete. 10.30 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGlv, R) A minor royal mysteriously dies. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on major breaking news events and long-form investigations of national significance.
9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody: Murder In The Woods Pt 1. (Madv, R) A look at the investigation into a murder.
9.45 The First 48: For Love And Honour/The Dark Side Of Love. (Malv) A West Tulsa man is gunned down.
10.45 American Ripper. (Mav) 11.45 Love Cheats. (Ma) 12.35 Fish Forever. (PGl, R) 1.05 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 CampByMe. (Premiere)
Today Early News.
Today.
6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. (PG) Guest chef is Adriano Zumbo. 8.15 Watson. (Return, PGas) Watson and the fellows spring into action when
9GO! (83)
9GO!
MONDAY, June 15
6.00
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.
SBS World News. 7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG) 8.40 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal) 9.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals, R) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
12.40 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 1.15 Jia. (PG, R) 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group H. ESP v CPV. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group G. BEL v EGY.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.10 The Rookie. (Mav) The LAPD prepares to protect the president. 10.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 11.10 The Agenda Setters.
12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)
1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
Shark! (Final, PGhln) 9.00 100% Footy. (Mal) Features the
Footy Classified. (Ml)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
6.10am Master
TUESDAY, June 16
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Monsters Of The Deep. 11.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
SBS World News Late.
Living Black. (R) 11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.30 The Negotiator. (MA15+a) 12.20 Divided We Stand. (Ml, R)
2.15 Great British Railway Journeys. (R)
4.00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PGa, R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. FRA v SEN.
VICELAND (31)
Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 8.10 Angel And The Badman. (1947, PG) 10.00 The Big Lebowski. (1998, MA15+) 12.10pm Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 1.55 Monsieur Verdoux. (1947, PG) 4.10 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 5.50 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 7.30 Harold And Maude. (1971, M) 9.10 I Like Movies. (2022, M) 11.00 Like Water For Chocolate. (1992, M, Spanish) 1am Late Programs. 6am Monsieur
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) Richard looks to redeem himself while treating an overworked food delivery worker.
10.10 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well. 11.10 The Agenda Setters.
12.10 Happy’s Place. (PGal)
12.40 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Sunrise Early News.
WEDNESDAY, June 17
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. FRA v SEN. Cont. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. IRQ v NOR. 10.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group J. ARG v ALG. 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group J. AUT v JOR. 4.30 The Granny Grommets. (PG, R) 4.40 Patagonia. (PGa, R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Eurostar: Minding The Gap. (R)
8.30 Mysteries Of Sink Holes. (PGa, R)
9.25 Coldwater. (Malsv)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.
11.20 Why Sharks Attack. (Ma, R)
12.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
1.40 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 2.15 Ran. (Madv, R) 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group K. POR v COD. 5.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group L. ENG v CRO.
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.45 Late Programs.
THURSDAY,
TV (2)
VICELAND (31)
Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 National News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Final, Malv)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 The Agenda Setters.
11.00 Australia: Now And Then. (Madln, R)
12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)
1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL State of Origin. Game 2. New South Wales v Queensland.
10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 2.
11.00 NRL Origin Story. (PGl, R) Looks at the original “Origin” rule.
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Explore TV Viking. (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 Drive TV Presents. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6am
6am Castle In The Sky.
(1986, PG) 7.45 Where The Money Is. (2000, PG) 9.20 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 11.05 Harold And Maude. (1971, M) 12.40pm I Like Movies. (2022, M) 2.30 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 4.10 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.00 P’tang, Yang, Kipperbang. (1982, PG) 7.30 The Graduate. (1967, M) 9.30 Riceboy Sleeps. (2022, M) 11.40 Heroic. (2023, MA15+, Spanish) 1.20am Late Programs.
June 18
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Gruen. (PG, R) 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 11.20 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Capture. (Mlv, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 4.00 Frankie Drake. (PG) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
11.10 The Business. (R) 11.25 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (Mv, R) 12.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)
5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 9.50 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.35 Amazing Animal Friends. 11.25 Late Programs.
(3)
6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group L. ENG v CRO. Cont. 8.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group L. GHA v PAN. 11.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group K. Uzbekistan v Colombia. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. France v Senegal. Replay. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts. (PGa, R)
8.30 Saving Yellowstone. (PG)
9.25 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Ma)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.
11.15 The Boys Who Said No. (MA15+avw, R)
12.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PGaw, R) 12.50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PGa, R) 1.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. CZE v RSA. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. SUI v BIH.
VICELAND (31)
9.00 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. 9.50 The Americans. 10.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group J. Argentina v Algeria. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00
6am Morning Programs. 8.25 P’tang, Yang, Kipperbang. (1982, PG) 10.00 Shaft. (1971, M) 11.50 Past Lives. (2023, M, Korean) 1.50pm Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. (1984, PG) 4.00 Where The Money Is. (2000, PG) 5.35 The Man Who Brought Down The White House. (2017, PG) 7.30 One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, M) 10.00 Blood Quantum. (2019, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGl, R)
8.30 Air Crash Investigations: Crash Landing. (PG)
9.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles. (Mdlv, R)
10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (Malv, R)
11.30 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.30 Brave New World. (MA15+asv)
1.30 ICU. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. Under-19s State of Origin. New
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51)
9GEM (82)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
On the Couch
By JASMINDA
DEAR Jasminda,
MY husband Glenn enjoys making spontaneous arrangements whereas I am someone who needs to plan. An example would be, 'I just had a call from Pete and Jude. They're dropping in sometime today.' He thinks I should be more easy going. What do you think?
Ursula R.
DEAR Ursula,
I’M going to deviate from stereotypical male/female roles,
OPINION & LETTERS Dorin's Drawings
because I'm sure there are many men out there who also need to feel organised before guests arrive, but from my experience, there is usually one person in a couple who runs around like a lunatic, dusting cobwebs, plumping cushions, lighting scented candles, whipping together grazing plates, and ensuring the bathroom is open-heart-surgery sterile.
Then, there's the other party who says, 'Sure Pete, come on over, I think there's a six-pack in the fridge.
We'll rustle up a feed. Hey Ursula, Pete's coming over. Pete, bring Jude. Are your kids home?
We'd love to see them. How are Johnny's tennis lessons going? Maybe we could have a friendly volley in the backyard. Ursula, have you seen my tennis racket?'
This is often thrown on Ursula (or her equivalent) when she' justs emptied the entire contents of the pantry for its annual spring clean, or she's plonked herself on the
lounge to binge on Bridgeton and Pete and Jude are not on her radar.
Now they are. She's wondering if Jude is still lactose-intolerant and whether they'll end up staying the night, which will require changing the sheets in the spare bedroom.
She's wondering if the ladder is handy so she can get to the mezzanine, which is where she last saw the tennis rackets.
She's wondering whether she can throw together a meal, get to the bottle shop, shave her legs and/or feign a migraine.
There is really only one answer here, and that's to have an adult conversation about your different personalities and how you can both adjust to make socialising a pleasure for all those involved (including Pete and Jude, who are certain to sense tension in the air when you aim for Glenn's head during the social game of tennis).
Psalm 119: 105 "Thy Word is a lamp unto me feet and a light unto my path."
Calling all Dungog and Gloucester families
Dear News Of The Area,
I AM writing to ask whether your newspaper might be willing to publish an old family photograph in the hope that members of the community may be able to help identify some of the people pictured.
The photograph is believed to include my husband’s greatgrandfather, Robert Alexander Laurie, who was born in 1878 at Rawdon Vale, Gloucester.
Based on his apparent age in the image, we estimate the photograph was taken when he was between 30 and 40 years old.
We believe this means the photograph may have been taken somewhere between 1908 and 1918, before World War I.
We have reason to believe the photograph may have been taken in the Dungog district.
Written on the photograph are the names Lin Smith and Dick Abbott, both of which appear to be Dungog family names. Unfortunately, beyond that, we have very little information about the image, the occasion,
Biological reality is logical
DEAR News Of The Area,
SONJA Duncan's letter in the of News Of The Area ‘Rights are not a zero-sum game’, (page 13, 3/6/26) gave me the impetus to re-play Alison Penfold's recent speech to Parliament about her private members’ bill proposing changes to the sex discrimination act.
I also re-read Ms Duncan’s letter a couple of times.
For myself, Ms Penfold’s arguments came across as solid, based on reality and convinced me far more than Ms Duncan’s letter, which opposed the proposed changes.
I would like to be sure that women do not have to compete with biological males in sports and that hard-won women's spaces are not penetrated by males either.
It seems logical to me that a solid definition of sex and gender, based on biological reality, is a good place to start any discussions.
Making provision for the continuing and expanding variant groups can continue on from there, probably for a long time.
Regards, Brian Lewis, Gloucester River.
or the identities of the other people shown.
As local newspapers are often read by people with long family connections to the area, we are hoping that someone may recognise a face, a family name, a location, or perhaps even have a similar photograph tucked away in a family album.
If you would be willing to publish the photograph, we
would be incredibly grateful.
Any information that helps us better understand the people and story behind this image would be greatly appreciated and would help preserve a small piece of local history.
Thank you for considering our request.
Hayley Laurie, Gloucester.
One of those days
By John BLACKBOURN
I WOKE up this morning feeling cynical.
Yes, it was one of those days when the morning news said that the government is to provide cheaper electricity for all its citizens.
When I listened a bit longer, it said we would all be getting our electricity with a saving of $64 per year.
Wow. Wasn’t that exciting news, but I had been hearing something similar for at least two years, and it had not yet happened.
“Hope springs internal” the old saying said but I was still engulfed by doubt.
What happens when the government’s tax on fuel for our cars runs its discounted time & reverts to its full attack on our vehicles’ running expenses?
The alleged electricity saving for the year would then be overrun by petrol price rises for our two cars in the first month.
But “oh no” there is still more to worry about. I thought that we were to expect higher electricity bills due to the constant need to effect repairs to our run-down poles and wires of their transmission lines.
Plus, the further need to finance newly planned transmission lines for these new solar farm installations which are supposed to save us more money because their power
is less expensive than the present coal fired production method.
Well, good luck with all of that is what I heard at the coffee shop this morning. Don’t tell me that there could be others feeling cynical too. Surely this is just another reason why the voting intentions of the general public, as detailed by recent opinion polls, say that a high proportion of voters are simply fed up with the grossly cynical spin of governments.
Next, we are likely to be told that getting “second hand” AUKUS subs will be a great deal after our government has committed billions of dollars to American manufacturing facilities in order for them to build us new ones.
I wonder if our contract has a refund policy for that change of mind?
It probably doesn’t really matter because it is only taxpayers’ money providing that largess and should help us reach that magical one trillion-dollar deficit that we appear to be in such a hurry to achieve.
Because it’s nearly tax time, I hope my fellow voters might get the opportunity to visit their accountant so they can ask him if racking up losses to that level is a good idea and if reverting to secondhand equipment might be a sound way for governments to solve their funding dilemma.
The ultimate fishing experience
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
RECREATIONAL fishers are forever seeking the ultimate fishing experience.
Fishing Utopia, the jewel in the crown. Well, I have found it!
Two kilometres off the coast between Port Stephens and Forster sits an island wonderland where the fishing opportunities are endless.
Three kilometres long and two
kilometres wide, Broughton Island is the only island off NSW that has inviting beaches where boats of all sizes can, in the right conditions, nudge onto the white sand.
Surrounded by an extensive reef system, the island offers a base from which to explore the beaches, rocky shoreline and the mountainous terrain.
If it’s the fishing that attracts you then you are in luck.
Snapper, mulloway, teraglin,
kingfish and tuna can all be caught on the reefs, within a kilometre of the island.
Whiting and dusky flathead laze in the sandy shallows along all the island’s beaches while tailor, salmon, groper, leatherjacket and drummer are targeted off the rocks.
If that is not enough lobsters and squid call Broughton home.
A recreational fishing paradise, the island is available to all who wish to visit and there is a growing
interest from fishers throughout NSW, interstate and overseas.
If you have the slightest interest, contact the Port Stephens Marine Rescue for safety information and National Parks and Wildlife for camping accommodation. You will not regret it.
Broughton Island is part of the Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park and rules do apply. Send me a photo of the fish that you catch.
q Can you help the author of this letter identify some of the people in this photograph?
q The northern face of Broughton Island looking toward Seal Rocks. Photo: Supplied.
Ideas and aspirations
FROM Page 1
“Our Community Action Plan has been published and we are inviting the community to celebrate this achievement with us and join us for an interactive [handson] workshop to shape the way forward,” Ms Anderson said.
The Action Plan is the result of more than a year of community consultation, with volunteers working alongside Rural Aid to gather feedback, ideas and aspirations from local residents.
According to the Community Builders Task Team, the document reflected the vision of the community and outlined a range of projects that could move from concept to reality.
Since early 2025, the group has been compiling community feedback and “BIG IDEAS” to develop the plan in collaboration with Rural Aid.
The initiative has also received $10,000 in seed funding from Rural Aid to support priority projects identified by the community.
The evening will include opportunities for residents to discuss priority projects and contribute ideas for the next stages of implementation.
Potential projects include strengthening community connections through festivals, community events and improved access to the Village Green.
Other priorities include town beautification through street planting and public art.
The plan also highlights opportunities to increase youth engagement through skate park upgrades, leadership programs and playground improvements.
Rural Aid representative Steph Walsh, who facilitated the original Community Opportunity Workshop, will return to assist with discussions on the night.
Organisers hope the event will inspire local individuals and organisations to become involved in working groups that will help turn community ideas into practical outcomes.
The Community Builders Task Team said the plan was a reflection of the aspirations of local residents and marked an exciting transition from vision to action for the township.
Beware of animals on roads
MOTORISTS are being urged to slow down and stay alert for wildlife as Transport for NSW launches its annual “Animals on Country Roads” safety campaign.
Between 2016 and 2025,
26 people were killed and more than 1,250 crashes resulted in injuries involving animals on country roads.
Sally Webb, Deputy Secretary Safety, Policy, Environment and Regulation
at Transport for NSW, said driving in regional areas often means encountering unpredictable wildlife and livestock.
“Driving on country roads means sharing the road
with animals that can move quickly and unpredictably,”
Ms Webb said.
“Slow down, stay alert –especially at dawn and dusk – and take note of the animal warning signs. Also look out
for animals near creeks and waterholes.
“If an animal appears, brake safely and avoid swerving, as this can lead to serious crashes.
"This four-week campaign is a great reminder to all drivers to be vigilant and cautious when traveling on
country roads, especially in regions known for wildlife activity.”
The campaign runs until 30 June, encouraging motorists to take extra care on country roads and be prepared for unexpected wildlife hazards, including reporting injured animals to WIRES on 1300 094 737.
Kangaroos were involved in the highest proportion of fatal crashes involving animals in NSW, accounting for 44 per cent of deaths over the past decade.
“Every crash has real consequences. By slowing down and staying alert, drivers can help protect their own lives, the lives of others on the road, and the wildlife that share our environment,”
Ms Webb said. For more information on road safety and driving tips in animal-prone areas, visit the transport.nsw.gov. au/roadsafety/road-users/ drivers/animals.
Further funding to unlock key housing infrastructure
ANOTHER round of the NSW Government’s LowCost Loans initiative has been opened, unlocking $12 million to support regional councils to accelerate housing delivery.
The program, which is now open to all 95 regional councils across NSW, will provide financial support for
infrastructure projects such as roads, intersections, water and sewer upgrades.
Under the competitive grants program, the NSW Government will cover up to 50 percent of interest costs on eligible loans, with the aim of helping councils bring forward projects that unlock new homes sooner.
“The Low Cost Loans Initiative helps councils right across rural and regional NSW deliver the essential infrastructure needed to support growing communities,” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces
Paul Scully said.
“It reduces borrowing costs, helping councils to fast-
track the roads, water and sewer services they need.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said regional communities urgently need more new homes and the supporting infrastructure that makes that possible.
“This initiative is helping councils invest in
the essential services that support new housing while strengthening the long-term liveability of regional NSW,” she said.
“By partnering with councils on infrastructure delivery, we’re creating more opportunities for people to live and work in our regional communities.”
Among previous projects, the initiative has provided $7 million towards the $152 million construction of the new Cowarra Water Treatment Plant in the Port Macquarie region, expected to support the provision of more than 5,300 homes. Applications close at 5 pm on 31 August 2026.
q Historic Clarence Town’s Community Action Plan to be celebrated and shared with the community. Photo: visitnsw.com
q The four-week campaign encourages drivers to look out for wildlife. Photo: TfNSW
q Kangaroos were involved in the highest number of fatal crashes involving animals.
Photo: TfNSW
Menopause campaign cuts through the stigma
By Sis HIGGINS
A NEW campaign has been launched to support Australian women experiencing perimenopause and menopause.
Perimenopause and menopause affect women differently, with symptoms ranging from hot flushes and sleep disturbances to anxiety, brain fog and changes to mental health and wellbeing.
The campaign aims to improve understanding, reduce stigma and help women access reliable health information and support.
A recent Federal inquiry found many women entered perimenopause and menopause with limited knowledge about symptoms, treatment options and available support services.
Minister for Finance and Women Katy Gallagher said the campaign addressed a long-standing gap in women’s health awareness.
“Menopause should not come as a surprise, but for too long silence
and stigma have left too many women in the dark,” Minister Gallagher said.
“Making sure women have credible, evidencebased information that is easily accessible is essential to supporting their health and wellbeing. And it’s important for women’s families and the broader community to have awareness too.”
The campaign has been developed in consultation with health experts and women with lived experience to ensure it reflects the diverse ways menopause and perimenopause are experienced.
The campaign is part of the Government’s $792.9 million women’s health package.
Since related reforms were introduced, more than 430,000 women have accessed cheaper menopausal hormone therapies through the PBS, collectively saving more than $70 million, while almost 105,000 women have undertaken a Medicare-funded menopause health assessment.
q Women’s health awareness campaign launched nationally. Photo: NSW Health
