Dungog Shire News Of The Area 28 JANUARY 2026

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THE people who help make Dungog such a special place to live have been recognised at this year’s Dungog Shire Council Australia Day Awards.

In describing these remarkable people, Council shared that they are locals who “give their time, energy and hearts to support others, often quietly and without expectation”.

The 2026 Citizen of the Year was awarded to joint recipients, Gillian Finch and Annette

They are “highly respected community members whose decades of service, volunteering and care for others truly represent the very best of our Shire”.

Also recognised are:

• Young Citizen of the Year, Isla Briggs

• Volunteer Service to the Community Award, Vicki Lee Rumbel

• Environmental Citizen of the Year, Simon Brownbridge and Louise Boothroyd

• Senior Sportsperson of the Year, Shelby Lee Wintle

• Junior Sportsperson of the Year, Shea Egan and Reid Townsend

• Arts & Culture Award, Helene Lene. The Shire also welcomed its two newest Australian Citizens, Carina Ryan and Rodelyn Jones.

Monday’s ceremony was also attended by State MP Dave Layzell and 2026 Australia Day Ambassador Viv Kartsounis.

Viv is a passionate changemaker and the founder of Shoes for Planet Earth, a charity that has transformed over 100,000 lives by providing sports shoes to people in need.

Recognising all community nominees

By Sis HIGGINS

DUNGOG Shire Council celebrated community spirit and service on Australia Day, recognising both the winners of this year’s Citizen of the Year awards as well as the many deserving nominees.

In the lead-up to Monday’s event, Council praised everyone on the shortlist for the diverse ways they contribute to the strength, resilience and wellbeing of communities across the Shire.

Citizen of the Year

Nominees for Citizen of the Year reflected a wide cross-section of community service, volunteering, business leadership and local advocacy.

A Council representative congratulated them in a message shared on social media.

“What an amazing group,” the post read.

Gillian Finch: Clarence Town local Gillian received recognition for her long-standing volunteer work at the local Op Shop, where she consistently supports residents with kindness, generosity and care. Her dedication makes a meaningful difference to individuals and families across the community.

Emma Spartalis: Emma was acknowledged for her work as a technology founder and digital consultant, supporting rural women in business through mentoring, connection and community building. Her efforts helped create opportunities for women to grow

sustainable businesses while remaining connected to regional communities.

Annette Ellicott: Annette was recognised as a lifelong volunteer and community leader, with decades of service through Paterson Meals on Wheels and the Red Cross. Her commitment ensures that vulnerable community members receive essential support and care..

Karen Drinan: Karen received a nomination for her extensive contribution to emergency response and disaster relief.

With experience across organisations including the Australian Federal Police, Rural Fire Service and Disaster Relief Australia, she supported communities during times of crisis and recovery.

David “Jimmy” Cox: a local business leader, David was nominated for his role as founding director and master brewer of Tin Shed Brewery. A passionate advocate for the region, he supports tourism, local events and community sponsorship, helping promote Dungog Shire as a vibrant destination.

Young Citizen of the Year

This award highlights the strength of youth leadership within the local community. Nominees included:

Delilah Papamau: The Co-Captain of Dungog Primary School in 2025 earned recognition as a confident and capable leader. She represented her school at major events and helped ensure young people had a voice through her involvement in the

Youth Planning Forum.

Benjamin Walters: Fellow Co-Captain Benjamin was also nominated, acknowledged for his growth in leadership and public speaking. He represented Dungog Primary School with pride and demonstrated a strong commitment to community involvement.

Isla Briggs: nominated for her long-standing volunteer work with the Dungog Show, where she played a key role in forming the new Youth Team.

In addition to her volunteer efforts, Isla balanced responsibilities as a lifeguard, school leader and youth exchange participant, contributing to the community across multiple areas.

Volunteer of the Year

Nominees in this category reflected a broad cross-section of service, spanning education, veterans’ support, sport, arts, heritage and community care.

John Enright: Mr Enright received a nomination for his lifelong commitment to service. A former educator and Vietnam veteran, he continues to give back through his involvement with the Dungog RSL, Probus, the local Golf Club and other community groups.

Vicki Lee Rumbel: Ms Rumbel was nominated for her long-standing role as Treasurer and scorer with Dungog District Cricket, where she consistently supports grassroots sport and community fundraising initiatives.

Lynette Moseley: Ms Mosely

earned recognition for her tireless volunteer work across a wide range of services, including palliative care support, transport coordination, fundraising and church programs. She has contributed countless hours over many years.

Greg Parrey: Acknowledged for his behind-the-scenes efforts at the James Theatre, Greg’s ongoing support helped keep the historic community venue operating smoothly.

Chris O’Neill: Recognised for his quiet but consistent assistance across multiple community groups in Clarence Town, Chris’ regular volunteering includes weekly support at the Senior Citizen Centre and the Courthouse Museum.

Junior Sportsperson of the Year

This award celebrated a year of outstanding achievement, commitment and sportsmanship.

Delilah Papamau earned a nomination as a standout allrounder at Dungog Primary School. She competed at regional level, approached every sport with enthusiasm and consistently supported her teammates both on and off the field.

Shea Egan was recognised for dedication to Pony Club, demonstrating strong sportsmanship, pride in the sport and a genuine sense of community spirit.

Reid Townsend received a nomination for his achievements in BMX freestyle, including State and

National titles. He also represented Australia internationally, showcasing his talent on a global stage.

Dominic Zanardi was acknowledged as a standout young soccer player representing Northern NSW and the Newcastle Jets. In addition to his representative success, he volunteered his time to help coach younger players, demonstrating leadership beyond competition.

Senior Sportsperson of the Year

Acknowledging excellence in sport, this award also considers dedication to community and service.

Shelby Lee Wintle earned a nomination for her achievements as an elite athlete and her contribution to education. A highly regarded high school teacher, Ms Wintle supports students with additional needs while also competing at the highest levels of sport. She has represented Australia in amateur boxing and long-distance running, balancing international competition with a strong commitment to her local community.

David Rumbel: A posthumous nomination recognised David Rumbel, affectionately known as “Mr Cricket”, for his service to local cricket. Mr Rumbel dedicated over 50 years to the sport as a player, coach, curator and leader, shaping generations of players and contributing tirelessly to the growth and sustainability of the game at a grassroots level.

DRAFT CLARENCE TOWN FLOOD STUDY

We need your feedback before 1 March 2026

The Draft Flood Study for the Clarence Town area will be on public exhibition from 12 January to 1 March 2026. th st

The study provides flood information for Council, emergency services and the community. Outcomes of the study will help to develop strategies to support the ongoing strategic development of Clarence Town and its surrounding environs, as well as inform decision-making to minimise potential flood risk for new developments.

You can find out if your property is identified as being flood-prone by scanning the QR code and visiting our website. You can also lodge your feedback via our website, or by writing to Dungog Shire Council: 198 Dowling Street Dungog NSW 2420 before 5pm, 1 March 2026.

Community drop-in session

Like to ask our Council planning team a question about the draft Flood Study? We will be holding a community drop-in session and would welcome you to come along and have a chat to us.

Date: Saturday, 14 February 2026

Times: 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm

Location: Clarence Town School of Arts Hall

www.dungog.nsw.gov.au

AGENT CRACKDOWN

FROM Page 1

Anoulack Chanthivong said the list will lift standards across the sector.

“Publishing serious breaches and repeated noncompliance sends a clear message that accountability matters,” he said.

Key information such as a trader’s name, ABN or ACN, licence number, and suburb are listed, as well as a clear description of the type of

action and why it was taken.

Processes are in place to ensure appropriate levels of privacy, according to Strata and Property Services Commissioner Angus Abadee.

“The list has been built with clear publication guidelines and timeframes and processes to correct errors and manage privacy where appropriate,” he said.

“It’s about transparency that’s fair to consumers and businesses.”

Last financial year, NSW Fair Trading undertook nearly 500 investigations and more than 300 inspections in the property and rental sector.

It issued over 300 penalty notices worth more than $430,000, and carried out significant licensing actions including cancellations, suspensions and disqualifications.

Backed by an $8.4

FREE ACCESS TO ALL NOTA

NEWSPAPERS ONLINE & IN PRINT

million investment, the newly established Strata and Property Services Taskforce has also placed additional inspectors in the field. Together, they have completed more than 186 Anytime, Anywhere inspections with a focus on maintaining compliance standards across the property sector.

This tool follows the Government’s proposed slate of reforms to the state’s underquoting laws.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)

Development Opportunities – Dungog Shire Council Land

Dungog Shire Council is inviting Expressions of Interest from suitably qualified parties for the development of several Councilowned land parcels within the Dungog Shire Council area.

Council is seeking proposals that deliver genuine value to the community, and submissions that identify potential opportunities for ongoing revenue generation for Council will be highly desirable.

Available land parcels include:

(South of) Melbee Circuit, Dungog – approx. 18ha (R1, R5)

Crolls Mill Lane – approx. 4050m² (MU1)

41 Common Road, Dungog – approx. 8600m² (RU1) 138 Abelard Street, Dungog – approx. 2.3ha (RU1, R1)

Proposals may include a range of opportunities (including residential and/or commercial, depending on the site), provided they are consistent with relevant zoning and planning requirements.

Expressions of Interest close 5pm Friday 20 February 2026.

For more information or to submit an EOI, please visit our website. www.dungog.nsw.gov.au

By Andrew STAFFORD/ AAP

AN AUSTRALIAN rock legend has spoken of the legacy of a fallen comrade who has been posthumously awarded Australia Day honours.

Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst - who wrote or co-wrote many of the band's biggest hits - knew he was to receive the gong before his death earlier this week after battling pancreatic cancer for almost three years.

Hirst has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the performing arts through music.

In a written statement, Jimmy Barnes told AAP Hirst was "the heartbeat that brought the whole sound (of

the band) together".

"My early thoughts of Midnight Oil are made up of a mix of confrontation and harmony," he said.

"Peter (Garrett), the frontman, stormed around the stage, so menacing that when he moved to the music, I was almost looking for a way to protect myself against the onslaught.

"Their whole stage presence was so untamed that I felt uncomfortable watching them from front of house, but there was also incredible harmony and melody."

Once he got past the initial shock and awe, Barnes noticed the driving force at the back, saying Hirst was like no one he had seen before or since.

"At the back of the stage there was a drum kit that, when it wasn't being drowned in beer, was being battered into submission by a man who appeared to be more of a long-distance

runner than a musician.

"He was directing the whole band. He didn't just play drums, he played the songs.

"Each fill was as important to the song as the chorus. Each kick drum was a place on which the band could hang a new passage.

"The Australian music community will sadly miss this amazing man."

Another Australian music veteran, GANGgajang's Mark Callaghan - whose band was best known for the hit Sounds of Then - said Hirst was fully deserving of the honour.

"His ability to hit the nail on the head with a song, in terms of getting to the heart of the matter, was extraordinary," he said.

"Songs like Beds Are Burning will live forever because they advanced not just Australian songwriting, but a much broader context of Australian cultural and political life."

By Kat WONG

EVERYTHING Kasey

Chambers and Shane Nicholson touch turns to gold - even a divorce.

The decorated country music collaborators and former lovers had not written a song together since they separated in 2013.

But on Saturday night, their reunion ballad The Divorce Song won song of the year and single of the year at the 2026 Country Music Awards of Australia, bringing their total career Golden Guitars to more than 40 between them.

"I don't think we thought we'd be standing up here together again," Chambers told the Tamworth ceremony.

"I want to thank Shane for this song. You are still one of my favourite singer-songwriters in the entire world - you weren't for a few years there, but you're back.

"We hadn't written a song together since the divorce and it's really special you took a chance on me."

Chambers and Nicholson married in 2005 and have two children together.

In 2008, Chambers released her first collaboration album with her then-husband. It debuted at number one, was certified platinum, and won the couple five Golden Guitars at the 2009 awards show.

Her second collaboration with

Nicholson in 2012 won the ARIA Award for best country album.

In some ways, the birth of The Divorce Song was easy.

"The writing of this song we did via text message, so we didn't tempt fate," Nicholson said.

"It seriously took us an hour, but in reality it took us probably close to 10 years of living, learning and growing to write this song."

The couple have continued to co-parent and maintain that they "do divorce pretty good".

Chambers' album

Backbone also won alt country album of the year at Australia's peak country music awards.

Though she was the

Astronaut and runner win nation’s highest honours

By Zac DE SILVA/AAP

AS A little girl, Katherine Bennell-Pegg would lie on the dry grass in her backyard, gazing up at the stars and dreaming about reaching them one day.

While she's yet to float in space, the now-41-year-old is closer than most others could ever hope for.

The first Australian astronaut to train under their own flag, Ms Bennell-Pegg has been awarded one of the nation's highest honoursAustralian of the Year.

The trailblazing space scientist said she was inspired by Paul ScullyPower and Andy Thomas - astronauts who grew up in Australia but travelled to

space as American citizens in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.

"When I received my blue flight suit, and right there, bright on the left shoulder was the Australian flag, it was quite emotional, because it marked something so much greater than myself," she said during her acceptance speech at a ceremony in Canberra.

"It said that the door has

opened for Australia to take our place at the forefront of human endeavour."

Ms Bennell-Pegg said she hoped to use the award to inspire young people to chase their dreams.

"It gave me hope - hope that one day more Aussie flags on spacesuits will follow," she said.

Born in Sydney, Ms

Bennell-Pegg grew up on the city's northern beaches and studied aeronautical engineering and physics at Sydney University. She then studied two masters degrees in Europe and in 2021 was invited to undertake astronaut training with the European Space Agency.

In 2024, she became the first Australian woman to graduate from the program, and the first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag.

While she waits to be called up for space flight, the 41-year-old now calls Adelaide her home, where she volunteers with the West Beach Surf Life Saving club.

In December 2024, she was also appointed as an Air Force reservist.

Ms Bennell-Pegg takes over as Australian of the Year from AFL legend Neale Daniher, who received the honour in 2025, for his work raising well over $100 million for research into motor neurone disease.

Daniher, who suffers from MND himself, didn't attend the awards ceremony at Canberra's National Arboretum because he was too unwell to fly, his wife Jan said.

"We call MND the beast. He's struggled in the last couple of months," she told awards night host Leigh Sales.

"MND has taken away Neale's ability to move, talk, eat swallow and eventually

it will take away his ability to breathe," Ms Daniher said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the creation of the Neale Daniher MND Clinical Network, a government-funded program to help tackle the neurological condition.

The program will help more Australians access clinical trials, treatment and care, Mr Albanese announced.

"Neale, your courage and advocacy has brought hope to so many, and we will ensure your work continues to change lives," he said.

Awards for Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero were also handed out on Sunday night.

Former electricianturned-ultra-marathonrunner Nedd Brockmann took out the Young Australian category, recognised for running from Perth to Sydney to raise money for a homelessness charity.

Pioneering dementia researcher Henry Brodaty won Senior Australian of the Year for his work identifying cost-effective, targeted interventions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The local hero award was given to Frank Mitchell, a Noongar man from Western Australia who has created more than 70 upskilling roles for Indigenous people in the construction and electrical industries.

Wolfe Brothers sweep Golden Guitars

By Kat WONG/AAP

THE Wolfe Brothers have swept Australia's peak country music awards, winning five Golden Guitars including the top gong for album of the year.

Australia's most decorated country duo were about to chase their American dream when they realised they couldn't call the US home.

The Wolfe Brothers' album Australian Made is a homage to the sunburnt country and the stories of its people, and on Saturday night, it helped the duo sweep the 2026 Country Music Awards of Australia.

Nick and Tom Wolfe won five of the eight Golden Guitar awards they were nominated for including the top gong for album of the year, contemporary album of the year, duo of the year, vocal collaboration of the year, and heritage song of the year at the ceremony in Tamworth.

Asked about almost moving to America, the brothers said they had made the right choice.

"This is our home, this is where our family is, this is the country we care about," Tom

told reporters after their win.

"Australian country music is from here - it's from the heart, it's songs about farmers, battlers, real people and us.

"Right now there is this wonderful international country music boom ... the best thing for us is to do our modern type of country and sing about this place: Australia."

The results bring the duo's career Golden Guitar haul to 15.

Country music veteran Kasey Chambers, who had received the most nominations in 2026, won three of the 13 categories she was up for.

The Divorce Song - a collaboration with exhusband Shane Nicholsonearned Chambers the Golden Guitar for single of the year and song of the year, while her album was awarded altcountry album of the year.

Male artist of the year and new talent of the year went to Wade Forster while Max Jackson took home female artist of the year for the second year in a row.

Two-time ARIA winner Fanny Lumsden and her husband Dan Stanley

Freeman won video

the year for Look At Me Now, which encapsulates the past decade and a half of her career through snippets of the life the couple share.

"This particular clip is quite different in that it's not the world of the song, it's the world of our lives," Freeman said.

FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

* Max Jackson MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR

* Wade Forster ALBUM OF THE YEAR

* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers SONG OF THE YEAR

* The Divorce SongKasey Chambers featuring Shane Nicholson SINGLE OF THE YEAR

* The Divorce Song -

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

* Look At Me Now - Fanny Lumsden ALT COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR

* Backbone - Kasey Chambers TRADITIONAL COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR

* Start All Over AgainBrendan Radford

HERITAGE SONG OF THE YEAR

* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers VOCAL COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR

* How Many One More Times - The Wolfe Brothers with Zac & George AAP travelled with the assistance of Tamworth Country Music Festival.

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

DOG PARK

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Studies have proven that dog owners have lower stress levels and an easier time making friends. However, those researchers haven’t met Dog Park’s Roland (Leon Ford). In the grip of a mid-life crisis, the pessimistic Roland recently became solely responsible for his daughter Mia (Florence Gladwin) and family dog Beattie while his wife works overseas, but isn’t particularly attentive to either. One day, a visit to the local park introduces Roland to eternal optimist Samantha (Celia Pacquola, pictured with Ford) and the “Dog Park Divas”, a close-knit group of friends eager to adopt him – whether he likes it or not.

FRIDAY, January 30

(Ma) A Titanic obsessive is found dead.

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.15 Smother. (Mal, R)

1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

MONDAY

MILLIONAIRE HOT SEAT

TEN, 7pm

After 15 years on air, is a quiz show most Australians know like the back of their own hands. But 10’s fresh take on the format hosted by national treasure Rebecca Gibney (pictured) is changing the game.

The Gold Logie winner is the first female to host Hot Seat high-risk, high-reward edition where just one wrong move can mean walking home empty-handed – and brings her bubbly personality, plenty of positivity and compassion to the role.

“I know I have big shoes to fill,” confesses Gibney.

“But I said when I turned 60 I wasn’t going to let fear stop me from trying new things – so here we go!” Six clever contestants try to win $1 million in Monday’s premiere.

TUESDAY NCIS

TEN, 9pm

Keeping viewers guessing by following an enigmatic special agent who plays his or her cards close to their chest is rule no.1 in the playbook. It allows the show’s writers to keep fans hooked by bread-crumbing the audience with tantalising reveals, and it’s also much easier than writing a back story that could cause complicated plot holes down the line. After four years at the helm of the team, it’s finally time we learn a little more about Alden Parker (Gary Cole, pictured). After his father was murdered in season 22’s finale, Parker is more determined than ever to track down the elusive Carla Marino (Rebecca De Mornay), even if it means ignoring the orders of Director Vance (Rocky Carroll) to carry out his personal vendetta.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Great House Revival. (PG)

9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Sisi. (Ma, R)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+ans, R)

1.30 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)

3.30 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)

4.00 Barkley Manor. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Adam Dovile fixes wobbly shelves.

8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017, MA15+sv, R) After the Kingsmen are attacked by a mysterious enemy, Eggsy and Merlin are the sole survivors. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong.

11.30 Doc. (Mav, R)

12.30 MOVIE: A Sister’s Grudge. (2021, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13. Men’s semi-finals. 11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R) An infection threatens Marcel’s transplant.

12.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) 1.00 Next Stop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R)

10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

Deal Or No Deal. (PGa, R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

Selling Houses Australia. (R) A couple struggle

SATURDAY, January 31

6.00 Back Roads: Local Heroes Special. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) A solo delivery puts Sister Julienne’s skills to the test.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Return, PGav) When a group of rival mudlarkers excavate the Holly Brook river, a dark and deadly past resurfaces.

10.00 The Jetty. (Final, MA15+a, R) Ember tries to uncover the truth about Amy. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

FAMILY

6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.25 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Jnr. 8.45 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Women On The Frontline. (PG)

8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Contrasting Bernina Railway. (R) Looks at the Bernina route.

9.40 The Secret DNA Of Us: Geelong. (Ma, R) The team heads to Geelong. 10.45 Lord Lucan. (Mav, R) 11.45 House Of Promises. (Msv, R)

3.15 Barkley Manor. (PG, R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 8.10 The Movie Show. 8.45 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.25 Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 12.15pm Tudawali. (1987, M) 1.55 Discovering Film. 2.55 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 4.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.30 The Gunman. (2015) 10.40

SUNDAY, February 1

6.00 Grand Designs Transformations: Turkish Queenslander And Newstead Bath House. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (Return, PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (Premiere, Ml) A man finds himself adopted by a pack of dog-tragics.

9.00 This England. (Premiere, Ml) Looks at Britain during Covid.

10.05 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)

11.05 Midsomer Murders. (PGav, R)

12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 7.50 MOVIE: Yogi Bear. (2010, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Abbott Elementary. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Lost Cities Of Genghis Khan. (Premiere)

9.20 Angkor: Hidden Jungle Empire.

10.20 Zelenskyy: Citizens At War. (PGalv, R)

11.15 A Year From Space. (PGavw, R)

12.30 Building The Impossible. (PGa, R)

1.25 The Deadly Bermuda Triangle. (PGa, R)

2.15 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)

3.20 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

Of The Rings. 6.50 Abandoned Engineering. 8.40 The Disappearance Of Jimmy Hoffa. 9.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. 12.30am Django. 2.30 NHK World News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 MOVIE: The Super Mario Bros. Movie. (2023, PGv) Two plumbers are sent to a magical kingdom. Chris Pratt.

9.00 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021, MA15+v, R) Members of a spy agency find themselves pitted against an evil cabal bent on starting a war. Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton.

11.40 Air Crash Investigations: Dream Flight Disaster. (PGa, R)

12.40 MOVIE: Betrayed Within. (2022, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. Women’s final.

12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R)

1.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple are at a crossroads about their home.

8.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives. 9.30 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) With junior doctors across the NHS on strike, ambulance crews respond to several road traffic accidents. 10.40 Matlock. (PGal, R) 11.40 Elsbeth. (PGav, R)

9GO!

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)

7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R) A celebration of John Farnham.

9.30 Queen: In Their Own Words. (Mal, R) The story of rock band Queen.

10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 Temple. (Malv)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. Men’s final. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 The First 48: Point Of No Return. (Ma, R) Two friends are found executed in a car.

1.00 Next Stop. A look

MONDAY, February 2

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Building The World’s Greatest Castle. 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Return) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Return)

10.05 SBS World News Late.

10.35 Like Water For Chocolate. (MA15+v)

11.25 Vigil. (Mav, R)

2.45 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Return, PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (Ma) Athena and Hen face increasing danger in space.

10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)

11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls)

9.30 Forging Champions. (PGl) A look at Canberra’s Australian Institute of Sport.

11.00 9News Late.

Sight Unseen. (Mv)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Hello SA. (PG)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6am The Movie

Show. 6.35 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 8.35

The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 10.25 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.30pm Swan Song. (2021, M) 2.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 4.30

The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.50 Here I Am. (2011, M) 9.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) Midnight Late Programs.

TUESDAY, February 3

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGals, R)

8.30 MOVIE: From Roger Moore With Love. (2024)

10.10 Rock Legends. (R)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)

12.05 DNA. (Mav, R)

1.45 Australia In Colour. (PGa, R)

3.40 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 Doc. (Mav) A patient forces Amy to confront the realities of medical tourism. TJ helps a veteran with his prosthetic. Joan drops a bombshell.

11.15 St. Denis Medical. (Ms) Joyce brings in a body scanner. 12.15 MOVIE: Broken Ties. (2023, Mav, R) Brianna Cohen.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 7.00 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 9.30

Another Country. (2015, PG) 10.55 Here I Am. (2011, M) 12.35pm Welcome Back, Mr. President. (2019, M, Italian) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 5.25 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 7.20 Out Of Season. (1975, M) 9.30 The Prestige. (2006, M) 11.55 Trespass Against Us. (2016, MA15+) 1.45am Late Programs.

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 for good food, drinks, functions and live music. And the place to stay for work or holiday. Check

WEDNESDAY, February 4

(2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.55 Mamirnikuwi. (PG, R) 11.10 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. (Return) 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 South America With Simon Reeve. (Ml, R) 3.00 Living Black: 50 Years. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Giant Mammoths. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Saving Yellowstone. (Premiere)

8.25 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (PGa, R)

9.20 Trespasses. (Premiere, Mlsv)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Face To Face. (Ma, R)

11.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R)

1.40 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R)

2.30 Australia In Colour. (Md, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 9.00 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.45 We

THURSDAY, February 5

(2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (R) 11.00 Creative Types. (PGv, R) 11.30 QI. (Ms, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mv, R) 1.45 Way Out Ag. (R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

(3)

6am The Movie

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw, R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Sabre-Toothed Tiger. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGal)

8.30 Highway Patrol. (Return, PG)

9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (Premiere, MA15+av)

10.15 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa)

11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)

12.35 The Last Weekend. (Premiere, Mav)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Let The Games Begin. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026. 10.45 9News Late.

11.15 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

7TWO (62)

6am Home In WA. 6.30 Escape To

8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)

9.20 In Flight. (Madl)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Before We Die. (Mal, R)

11.40 This Town. (MA15+dl, R)

2.00 Because We Have Each Other. (Mal, R)

3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Does Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (Return) 9.20 MOVIE: Paint. (2023, M) 11.10 MOVIE: The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 2am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Food That Built The World. 11.45 WorldWatch. 12.15pm Mastermind Australia. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Snatch. (2000, MA15+) 10.30 The UnXplained. 11.20 Homicide. 1.10am Threesome. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Late Programs.

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)

7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

Show. 6.15 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.10 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 10.05 The Prestige. (2006, M) 12.25pm Discovering Film. 1.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 2.50 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 5.20 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 7.30 Limitless. (2011, M) 9.30 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 11.45 Patrick. (2019, MA15+, French) 1.35am Late Programs. 6am Time

Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.15 Hajjan. (2023, PG, Arabic) 10.35 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 12.45pm Out Of Season. (1975, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Discovering Film. 4.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.55 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 9.40 The Quiet American. (2002, MA15+) 11.35 The Good German. (2006, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009, PGls, R) An editor gets engaged to her assistant to get a green card so she can continue working in the US. Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen.

10.50 To Be Advised.

12.35 Dare Me. (Premiere, MA15+asv) The arrival of a new coach threatens the tight bond between two cheerleaders.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Australia’s most controversial social experiment continues with plenty of love and drama.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Coverage includes curling, South Korea v Italy and ice hockey. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Overnight. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs. 6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 Elsbeth. (PGlsv) When a grief influencer’s presumed-dead husband returns, their reunion takes a fatal plunge. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news,

PUZZLES

Dear Jasminda, I was driving up a long and winding road in my ute on the weekend when I passed a cyclist. She seemed to be doing it very tough and wasn't making much progress. Should I have offered her [and her bike] a lift to the next town? I'm now regretting that I didn't stop to assist.

Gerard P.

Dear Gerard,

One person's torture is another's personal challenge.

Although the cyclist you

passed may have been in physical agony (her calf muscles screaming with each pedal push), when she finally reached the crest of the hill, she no doubt felt the elation of achievement, which would have sustained her through the remainder of her ride.

Unless she was sitting on the side of the road with a flat tyre, I think you were right to continue driving (even then, she probably had a repair kit).

Cyclists battle so many obstacles when they ride on roads -- cars that drive past too fast or too close, roadwork, potholes, inclement weather, and passengers getting out of their vehicles without looking -- that they are pretty seasoned (or soon learn to be).

She may have just been riding slowly to conserve her

remaining energy. Still, it was kind of you to be thoughtful enough to reflect on whether you should or shouldn't have stopped.

I'm sure she had a mobile phone in her backpack ready to ring a friend or family member if the going got too tough (unless she was a lone tourist, and then your offer may have been more alarming than the steep incline she was trying to navigate).

If you are thinking of stopping for an exhausted cyclist in the future, perhaps just ask if there is anyone you can call for them or check if they have enough water and provisions to sustain them until their next rest stop. A simple 'are you okay?' if it is safe to do so would no doubt be greatly appreciated.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

SUDOKU

Honours list: gender balance ‘cause for concern’

CONGRATULATIONS

to the 680 Australians recognised in the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list, which we the Council of the Order of Australia, recommended to the Governor-General.

This represents the highest number since Australia Day 2024.

The recipients come from all parts of the country and their service, achievements and impact are remarkable.

All are deserving of recognition through our nation’s honours system for their service to the Australian community.

It is particularly pleasing to note the significant number of people being recognised with the highest meritorious award in the system, the Companion of the Order of Australia – and on this occasion an equal representation between women and men.

However, the gender balance of this year’s

honours list more broadly is both a cause for concern and, the Council hopes, a prompt for community action.

Honours in the Order of Australia are a result of nominations – anyone can nominate a worthy Australian for recognition.

In previous years the Council has considered an even gender balance of nominations, however, over time, this has led to a significantly larger pool of nominations for men left to

be considered.

Many more nominations are still being received for men than women and the Council must consider the nominations for Australians that are in the system.

There is no doubt there are as many outstanding women contributing to our communities as there are men – the fact an equal number of women and men have been appointed Companions of the Order in this list underlines that.

The Council would like

Calling handy crafters

By Shannon BENTON

LOCAL crafters of all ages are being invited to put their skills on show, with the Dungog Clarence Town Country Women’s Association (CWA) calling for entries to their upcoming Hunter River Group Handicraft Competition.

Handicraft Officer

Julie Fitzgerald said the competition features a wide range of categories open to the general public, including children and young people.

The competition offers a valuable opportunity for local makers to showcase their talents beyond the local area.

“We’re looking for different items from across the community to include in our submission,” Miss

Fitzgerald said.

“Only one item per category can go forward, so we’ll be selecting the best examples at judging on Tuesday, 17 February at 4pm at the Dungog CWA Rooms.”

All entries must have been made within the past two years and be of a good standard.

Junior sections are open to boys and girls under 12-years, and those aged 13 to 18 years, with entrants able to submit any handicraft item such as sewing, woodwork, or similar creative pieces made by the contestant.

Junior competitors may also submit quilts up to a maximum size of 220cm x 220cm, which may be commercially quilted.

For adults, the Open

Age section is open to both men and women, with items required to be made from at least 70 per cent natural fibre.

Categories include handknitted or crocheted cot or knee rugs, garments made from various yarn weights, items created from 100 per cent pure wool, spinning, weaving, and felting.

Some categories require a sample of the yarn used and the original yarn tag to accompany the entry.

Miss Fitzgerald said successful items would advance to compete against submissions from 24 other branches within the Hunter River Group, with top entries progressing to the CWA State Handicraft Competition.

“Our area has a strong

history of success,” she said.

“Local entrants have previously placed first at Hunter level and gone on to achieve second and third at

to see this balance reflected across all nominations and, therefore, outcomes at all levels of award.

We need Australians nominating outstanding women for recognition.

Nominating is simple –the form is online and help is available.

Nominators need to provide information about the person they are nominating and three referees who can attest to the person’s service and impact.

state competitions, so we know the talent is here.”

We encourage all Australians to look around their community, their workplaces, and the whole of our society, identify the women, as well as the men, who make a difference and whose impact is profound and nominate them so they can be celebrated through the Order of Australia.

On behalf of the Council of the Order of Australia

The Country Women's Association encourages community members to get involved, celebrate traditional and contemporary craft, and support local creativity on a wider stage.

Community members wishing to submit an item, arrange a drop-off, or make enquiries are encouraged to contact Miss Fitzgerald on 0457 859 744.

$4.2m to improve shark detection

NEW research, real-time tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer.

The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviourparticularly before and after weather events.

Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS

NSW) shark surveillance has been significantly expanded with 30 beaches added to the 50 currently monitored during school holidays.

Nineteen of the new sites are in Sydney and 11 are in regional NSW.

They include Crowdy Head, where a woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in late November.

In the Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA),

drones currently operate at Fingal Bay and Birubi surf life saving clubs.

While, in addition to Crowdy Head, drones in the MidCoast Council LGA are at Cape Hawke, Tea GardensHawks Nest, Forster and Black Head.

Drones will also increase operations to seven days a week through to the end of the April school holidays.

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the

new package represents a 90 percent increase on the current shark surveillance drone program, which means an additional 35,000 flying hours from 24 January to 26 April.

"We know our SLS drones are an effective eye in the sky when it comes to early shark detection and warning beach users,” he said.

"So far in 2025/26, 50 Surf Life Saving NSW drones from Tweed to Bega have completed 29,431 flights over 8044 flying hours.

“During that time 461 sharks were sighted.

"Our lifeguards and lifesavers enacted 170 countermeasures including beach evacuations, beach siren, drone siren, and rescue vessels."

The additional funding follows heightened community concern and recognises the importance of clear, evidence-based safety messaging for swimmers and surfers.

In announcing the new measures, Minister for Agriculture, Regional and

Western NSW Tara Moriarty, acknowledged that there is no single solution to preventing shark attacks.

“No government can ever promise to make the water completely safe, which is why we’re using a range of tools to keep people informed and as safe as possible,” she said.

As part of the package, the NSW Government will strengthen community awareness, with an expanded SharkSmart education campaign, an additional mobile education van, new and updated signage, and increased social media alerts and community warnings during periods of elevated risk.

Shark listening stations will be installed in Sydney Harbour, allowing faster detection of tagged sharks, while focused research on bull sharks in the harbour and other estuaries will be carried out, including tagging and monitoring led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) shark scientists.

These measures sit alongside the 2025/26 Shark Management Program already operating across NSW, which includes 305 SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drumlines in 19 local government areas for year-round coverage, and tracking the movements of tagged sharks via 37 tagged shark listening stations, with at least one station in every coastal local government area for year-round coverage. In December, the Government announced an additional $2.5 million enhancement to its 2025/26 program, with drones starting a week earlier than normal in summer; weekend flights from February to April; an expedited rollout of additional drones and training for Surfing NSW; and, triple the funding for the rollout of community shark bite kits in regional coastal areas.

All drone locations across NSW can be found on the SharkSmart website at sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/.

Zone ‘revived’

By Sue STEPHENSON

THE Newcastle Port Stephens Game Fish Club (NPSGFC) has joined community groups in accusing Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen of attempting to revive the region’s failed offshore wind proposal by rebranding it research and demonstration (R&D).

Mr Bowen announced on Friday that he had opened applications for R&D licences in Australia’s six offshore

wind zones, including off Port Stephens.

While research “development” is largely theoretical and focuses on acquiring new knowledge, “demonstration” involves project-based testing in realistic or near-operational environments.

“These licences will give certainty to domestic and international developers, universities and research cooperatives to pioneer new technological advances in

Australian waters,” Mr Bowen said.

NPSGFC President Troy Radford said the minister’s announcement confirms the government is determined to push industrial-scale energy projects into sensitive marine environments, regardless of evidence or community opposition.

“The offshore wind farm off Port Stephens didn’t stack up - full stop,” Mr Radford said.

“It failed on environmental risk, economic justification, and social licence.

“Calling it ‘R&D’ doesn’t

magically fix those failures, it just tries to disguise them.”

The Federal Government had offered a feasibility licence to Norwegian Energy Company Equinor and Australian firm Oceanex to build the $10bn Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm.

But Equinor pulled out in August 2025, declining to take up the lease.

Despite the project being shelved and years of community protests, the 1,854 km² area off the Hunter Coast between Norah Head (Central Coast) and Port Stephens, remains a

DUNGOG SHIRE COUNCIL Bulky Waste Collection

&

designated offshore wind zone.

Mr Radford said the government has produced no credible explanation for how offshore wind infrastructure, even at an R&D stage, would avoid the same impacts that doomed the original proposal, including exclusion zones, disruption to marine habitat, and serious risks to navigation and fishing access.

“You don’t get a different outcome just because you change the label,” he said.

“Industrial structures in the ocean have industrial impacts. Anyone pretending otherwise is not being honest with the public.”

Port Stephens is one of Australia’s most significant recreational and game fishing regions, supporting tourism, small business, and a marine ecosystem that has been responsibly used and protected for generations.

Mr Radford said treating the area as an experimental zone showed a profound disconnect between Canberra and coastal communities.

“Port Stephens is not a laboratory, and our community is not a guinea pig for energy policy experiments.”

The club has called on the minister to release all environmental modelling, economic assumptions, navigational risk assessments, and stakeholder

impact analyses used to justify the R&D proposal.

Nationals Member for Lyne Alison Penfold noted how the announcement was “buried in a media release, late on Friday”.

“The Minister is back at it again, trying to force a wind farm against the community’s wishes”, Ms Penfold said.

“Offshore wind is simply not feasible or wanted off the Myall [or Hunter] Coast.

“Our community has made this blatantly clear.

“The fact that the Minister is doing this without any consultation with affected communities smacks of… arrogance and disregard.

Followers of the “Save the Myall Coast Save Port Stephens” community group have pledged to make this an election issue.

“Have no doubt, we will turn the protection of our precious beaches into a red hot issue at the impending NSW state election - and take out our frustration on Labor there,” wrote Ian Roberts. “We will also maintain the rage into the Port Stephens council election.”

Theresa Green wrote: “Only the polls can fix this.”

“Plenty of city people holiday in this area, perhaps they may have some interest in their future recreation locations not being contaminated by this rubbish.”

Clean-Up is starting soon, allowing you to dispose of large bulky items. The Bulky Waste Collection will run from Monday 2 February to Friday 6 March. Your collection week is determined by your weekly waste bin collection day.

Week 1 - if your waste bin collection is Monday

Bulk waste collection runs Monday 2 Feb - Friday 6 Feb

Vacy, Gresford, East Gresford, Lostock and back

Week 2 - if your waste bin collection is Tuesday

Bulk waste collection runs Monday 9 Feb - Friday 13 Feb

Paterson, Martins Creek and Dungog Roads

Week 3 - if your waste bin collection is Wednesday

Bulk waste collection runs Monday 16 Feb - Friday 20 Feb

Dungog

Week 4 - if your waste bin collection is Thursday

Bulk waste collection runs Monday 23 Feb - Friday 27 Feb Clarence Town, Glen Martin, Glen William

Week 5 - if your waste bin collection is Friday

Bulk waste collection runs Monday 2 March - Friday 6 March Flat Tops, Marshdale, Main Creek, Salisbury, Fosterton Loop

Please only place items out the WEEKEND BEFORE your collection! Early placement may be considered illegal dumping and can attract fines.

Acceptable Items

Metals - including whitegoods with doors removed.

Electronics - kitchen appliances, televisions and computers

Bulky household waste - furniture and hot water systems (smaller than 260 litres)

Unacceptable Items

Mattresses

Tyres and motor vehicle engines and parts

Greenwaste - branches, leaves, pruning etc

Commercial or industrial waste - building materials

Liquids - Fuels, oils, paints etc

Winter Olympians arrive in Italy

By AAP

AUSTRALIA’S Winter

Olympians have begun arriving in Italy ahead of the Games, with three skiers formally added to the 53-strong party.

The alpine skiers were officially added after successful appeals.

Phoebe Heaydon, Madison Hoffman and Harry Laidlaw were added to the 53-strong Australian team, which began to arrive in Italy on Monday.

Sydneysiders Hoffman and Heaydon will make their Olympic debuts in the slalom and giant slalom events.

Hoffman was selected for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics team but was injured just days out from the Games and had to withdraw.

PyeongChang 2018

Olympian Laidlaw makes his return in the giant slalom.

"Harry, Phoebe and Madison have each carved their own path through one of the most competitive global winter sports," Australian Winter Olympics team chef de mission Alisa Camplin said.

"Their selection is a testament to years of discipline, resilience and gritty performances.

“To be amongst the world's best is an outstanding achievement, I can't wait to see them in action

"Harry has waited eight long years to get another run at the Games, and Madi has come back from the heartbreak of injury at Beijing 2022 and a double knee reconstruction.

“These are truly inspiring stories of determination and

belief.

"Watching Phoebe's progression this season, to make her World Cup debut has been fantastic.

“She's only 20 years old.

“How great it is to see Australia's next-generation athletes rising to the top."

Members of the aerials, cross country and bobsleigh teams were the first athletes to arrive at the Australian Institute of Sport's European training centre in Varese, with an Aussie lunch held to coincide with Australia Day.

They were welcomed by Julianne Cowley, Australia's ambassador to Italy, and local officials.

The Milan-Cortina Games get under way on February 6 (local time).

Australian Indigenous honours for star netballers

Lucy

and Maalaa

By Chris KARAS

EMERGING star netballers

Lucy De Souza and Maalaa McLennan will represent the Australian Indigenous Netball Schools squad in 2026.

The outstanding duo earned selection after skilful performances at the annual Budgies Indigenous Junior Netball Carnival recently at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena.

Goal attack, 13-year-old, Maalaa and talented wing attack Lucy,14, are set to gain valuable international experience with the Australian Schools Netball teams on their upcoming representative tours to the Gold Coast, New Zealand and Fiji.

Both Lucy and Maalaa are junior products of Port Stephens Netball Association and now compete for the Norths club based at Stockton.

Midcourt ace Lucy, was named in the Australian Indigenous Under 15s squad while sharp shooter Maalaa, will line up for the Australian Under 14s team.

The pair impressed keen judges with their allaction displays for the NSW Echidnas at the Budgies Junior Netball Carnival - a national event that brings together Indigenous players from across Australia to represent their states and territories.

The four-day event was hosted at Nissan Arena, home of the Queensland Firebirds, and showcased some of the best emerging Indigenous netball talent in the country.

Not only did the Budgies tournament provide elite competition but also celebrated culture, connection and community - offering players the opportunity to build friendships, leadership skills and cultural pride.

In another huge fillip, Lucy was named as one of Hunter Netball’s 2026 Future Partner Program Athletes, a talented group of emerging players to be guided by Program Coach Lisa Lewis throughout the season.

Netballer Liberty Phillips was also chosen in the squad.

De Souza and McLennan were joined in Brisbane by two other top Port Stephens juniors in 12-year-old goalkeeper/shooter Leiana Manton and midcourter Sarah Byrne of the Paterson River Netball Club.

All four served the NSW Echidnas with distinction and demonstrated a steely dedication, skill and pride in representing their community at a national level.

Top prospect Lucy shone for the Echidnas Under 16s and also plays representative netball for

Dungog and Hunter Metro.

She has joined the Norths club that competes in the Newcastle Netball Association competition and her inclusion in the Australian Indigenous Under 15 Girls squad is a remarkable achievement at her age.

Prolific-scoring Maalaa, starred for the Echidnas Under 14s and her national selection underlines the young shooter’s exceptional talent and potential.

Young Leiana

represented the NSW Echidnas Under 12s, with her team achieving a strong fifth-place finish in a highly competitive division.

The Port Stephens junior representative has proved a stand out defender for the Pearls and continues to impress as a rising young athlete.

Sarah, another capable midcourter, represented the Echidnas Under 18s, with her team finishing with an impressive national ranking of three.

The inspirational leader continues to be a strong role model for younger players in the region and will represent Port Stephens at the Netball NSW State Championships in Sydney later this year.

The achievements of these four young athletes are a proud moment for Port Stephens and a testament to the strength of grassroots netball in the region, inspiring the next generation of players to aim high and dream big.

Looking ahead, the community will likely see both Lucy and Maalaa fundraising locally in the coming months as they work towards funding their upcoming representative tours.

These international opportunities will provide invaluable experience, further supporting their development as young athletes and ambassadors for Indigenous netball.

Mini-Boomerangs gives kids a first kick at soccer

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16

It is ideal for beginners and first-timers and is open to all interested families, even if children plan to play for another club later in the season.

Sessions focus on fun, participation and confidencebuilding, with activities centred on individual skills, coordination and getting comfortable with the ball.

Each session is led by an

Wednesday, 28 January 2026

experienced MiniRoos coach and includes mini halftime fruit breaks supplied weekly, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on enjoyment rather than competition.

The program will run over four weekly afternoon

sessions on Wednesdays from 4–5pm, starting Wednesday, 11 February 2026. Sessions will be held at Barnes Oval at Dungog High School, with entry via Chichester Dam Road.

A $10 donation will cover

the four weeks, with each participant receiving a MiniBoomerangs shirt, soccer ball and drink bottle.

Dungog, Gresford and Clarence Town soccer clubs all offer welcoming pathways into junior soccer.

Parents and carers can register their interest by emailing dungogsc. secretary@gmail.com or by messaging the Dungog Soccer Club Facebook page.

First kick at soccer

go.

By Shannon BENTON

FAMILIES across the shire can give their children a chance to try soccer before joining a team in 2026, with Dungog Soccer Club running its popular Mini-Boomerangs program.

Mini-Boomerangs is a four-week “come and try” program designed especially for children turning 5, 6 or 7 in 2026 who have never played soccer before.

Coach Michael Grant said Mini-Boomerangs is about giving kids a fun, pressurefree first experience of soccer that builds confidence and encourages participation across the whole shire.

The program offers a gentle introduction to club soccer in a relaxed, supportive environment, without the pressure of crowds, noise or full season registration costs. Open to children from across the shire, MiniBoomerangs aims to increase participation in soccer more broadly by removing common barriers to entry.

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