THE community came out in force on Anzac Day to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who’ve served, and recognise the lasting legacy of the ANZAC spirit.
More than 250 people attended a dawn service at the Dungog RSL war memorial.
According to Dungog RSL sub-Branch representatives, the turnout was a lot bigger than expected and far surpassed last year’s attendance.
The much-needed rain held off during the service and thick fog did not dampen spirits.
POSTMASTER PHIL
to the main service in Dungog. Photo: Dungog High School.
Lisa WISEMAN 0437 315 191 lisa@newsofthearea.com.au
Dungog writer awarded prestigious fellowship
DUNGOG writer and emerging novelist
Shannon Benton has been awarded a fellowship with the Association for the Study of Australian Literature (ASAL) and The Copyright Agency.
Shannon is developing her novel Fragmented, a work of literary fiction that engages with themes of memory, authorship and myth, set between Victoria’s Mulberry Hill and Hanging Rock.
We
You
Her work explores memory, place and creative identity, often drawing on Australian literary history and landscape.
"The fellowship will
significantly increase my visibility within the national literary landscape, opening pathways for future publication, collaboration, and engagement with publishers and literary organisations,” Shannon told NOTA.
“It will also allow me to represent and advocate for regional voices, contributing to broader conversations about access, place, and storytelling in contemporary Australian writing.”
Shannon’s writing has previously been recognised through a range of emerging writer
opportunities.
She was shortlisted for the Newcastle Writers Festival Fresh Ink Emerging Writers Prize and for The Best Australian Yarn, and her work has been published in Mona Magazine.
She is currently undertaking advanced study through the Faber Writing Academy’s Writing a Novel program.
Shannon also works in allied health and aged care, specialising in report writing and narrativebased documentation.
She was previously a contributing reporter for Dungog Shire News Of The Area.
Stroud locals plan for big bicentenary
By Thomas O’KEEFE
A HOST of commemorative activities are being planned for Stroud’s 200th birthday celebrations in November.
Settled less than 40 years after Sydney Cove, Stroud’s long history has been preserved and researched by the Stroud and Disrtict Historical Society, members of which hosted a special meeting at the Stroud Country Club on Wednesday 22 April.
Clarence
Clarence
Clarence
Paterson
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Vacy
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Dungog
Dungog
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Lovey's
Dowling
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Long
Hidden
Bottlemart
Farmers
Gresford
Gresford
Gresford
A range of bicentenary celebrations are planned between Friday 20 and Sunday 29 November 2026.
“We are building the schedule to be a journey over the 10 days in November, starting with an opening ceremony that tells the story of Australian Agricultural Company Chief Agent Robert Dawson and his party traveling up the Karuah River from Tahlee,
to find better land for the company’s activities,” explained Stroud local Veronica Frost.
“Dawson apparently had 13 children, so some of his many descendants will be tracked down and invited.”
The schedule includes heritage walks, historical plays, tours, bush dances, films, monastery open days, late night shopping, a history-themed trivia night, a poetry and open mic night, and more.
One of the hallmark events will be a new historical play, “Stroud 1826”, based on the journey of Dawson and his group to find the beautiful Stroud valley.
“Young people especially should see this,” said Anne Frost from the organising team.
“I’ve learned so much in researching for this play, and young people should know that Stroud has an important place in our country’s history.”
Another highlight is the planned Art Trail.
“The Art Trail will be a very special piece of art itself, over several different locations, and the whole event is meant to be a culmination of all the things Stroud means to us,” added Veronica.
Local clubs and schools are already involved, with community members of all ages encouraged to take part.
“This is Stroud’s event,” said Eamonn Donohoe from the Historical Society.
“We are hoping everyone will get involved,
as this will only succeed if we get the community behind it.”
One significant event will be the honouring of a historic Indigenous person from the local area.
“One group of locals has been hard at work locating a historical Indigenous figure who was buried somewhere in St John’s Anglican Church graveyard, his exact location lost due to prevailing prejudices of the time,” Anne Frost said.
A debutante ball has also been planned, to be run by St John’s Anglican
Church.
Seven debutantes have already been found, with organisers looking for more.
More than 40 locals attended the first planning gathering at the Stroud Country Club, highlighting the level of community interest. The Society has already applied for several grants at local, state and federal levels, and will be working out ways to rally sponsors, including ‘in kind’ deals with regional media companies and local businesses.
q Emerging novelist Shannon Benton.
Photo: NOTA.
q Veronica Frost speaks to the group at the Stroud Country Club. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe.
q Quambi House, one of the oldest restored structures in Stroud.
Photo: supplied, Emma Mellows
Education for landholders
LOCAL Land Services (LLS) is hosting workshops in Paterson and Gresford to support producers to adapt to current conditions and issues.
The first session, to be held on-farm in Paterson on Wednesday 6 May from 9–11am, explores pasture dieback.
Pasture dieback is a condition causing premature death of high yielding tropical and sub-tropical grasses.
It is now present in the Hunter region with new infections identified in an increasing geographic area.
Workshop attendees will hear from Dr Suzanne Boschma and Sarah Baker (NSW DPI) on the latest pasture dieback research and how the condition is being managed in other areas.
According to LLS, attendees can expect “a clear understanding of what pasture dieback looks like in the Lower Hunter, and practical ideas on simple management options you can start using now”.
A second workshop, to be held at the Gresford School of Arts Hall on Thursday 14 May from 9:30am to 1pm, will focus
on managing livestock through a tight winter, with expert local insights to help landholders make confident, informed decisions.
Presenting the workshop will be LLS Livestock Officer Teresa Hogan, District Veterinarian, and Sustainable Agriculture Officer Sam Harwood.
Topics include:
• outlook of current season
• assessing paddock feed to understand how long stock can be grazed
• determining what supplements to use and
how much to feed, based on production goals and pasture quality
• current animal health issues affecting the region
• a local market outlook, supporting decisions around buy, sell, or hold.
“This is a valuable opportunity to hear from local specialists, ask questions, and take away practical tools you can apply immediately onfarm,” LLS said in a statement.
For details of LLS events, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/ departments-and-agencies/ local-land-services/events.
POSTMASTER PHIL
that Phil gave to his community," said Mr Bryden-Brown.
community for 17 years until his sudden passing in March 2025.
The project was spearheaded by the Paterson Rotary Club as a permanent tribute to a man widely regarded as the heart of the local post office and village.
Rotary president Phil Bryden-Brown spoke at the event regarding the significance of the occasion.
"The club thought that a plaque to commemorate Phil’s service on the new flagpole out the front of the post office was the ideal way to commemorate the wonderful, caring service
Beyond his 17-year tenure behind the counter starting in 2008, Mr Ellicott was a stalwart of public safety, serving in the Rural Fire Service (RFS) for two decades.
The ceremony included poignant tributes from RFS brigade members Darryl Jordan and Matt Findlay, who reflected on Ellicott’s "quiet and dedicated service" to the region during times of crisis.
His daughter, Lisa Ellicott, also addressed the crowd, sharing heartwarming memories of her father’s life and his love for
the Paterson district.
The Federal Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold, attended the ceremony as the guest of honour to officially unveil the plaque.
In her remarks, she noted the profound impact Mr Ellicott had on the daily lives of local residents.
The event concluded with a community gathering at the Court House Hotel, where refreshments were provided by the Red Cross, allowing friends and neighbours to share stories and celebrate the lasting legacy of a man who spent his life in service to others.
Draft Operational Plan, Budget and Fees & Charges 2026
- 2027
COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSIONS
Council’s Draft Operational Plan and Budget 2026–2027 is now on public exhibition, giving you the chance to find out about the services and priorities planned for the year ahead.
The draft Plan outlines proposed works across the shire, including infrastructure upgrades, community services and how funding will be allocated
Council will be holding community information sessions and invites the community to come along and hear from our Council team, who will present the key themes of the Plan
Dates and times include:
o Dungog: 4 May 2026 from 5-6pm at the Doug Walters Pavillion
o Vacy: 5 May 2026 from 5-6pm at the Vacy School of Arts Hall
o Clarence Town: 6 May 2026 from 5-6pm at the Clarence Town School of Arts Hall
For more information and to provide your feedback, please visit: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au
q A workshop in Gresford will focus on managing livestock through a tight winter. Photo: LLS website.
q The plaque was unveiled at a moving ceremony last week. Photo: supplied.
LOCAL DUNGOG
Stargazing
By Dave RENEKE
that turns an ordinary day on the water into a season-long bragging right.
But what if I told you there’s a way to plan your fishing trips like a pro, know when the bite will be at its best, and head home feeling like a champion?
Believe it or not, the secret weapon isn’t a fancy lure, a hightech rod, or some expensive new gadget.
It’s been hanging over your head the whole time. The Moon.
If you’ve ever fished around our region, surrounded by winding rivers, wild scenery, and that quiet magic that only locals truly understand, you’ll know our waterways feel alive.
The fish are there, plenty of them, but they don’t always feel like cooperating.
Some days you could swear the river is full of fish, yet not one of them is in the mood to bite.
That’s where lunar fishing comes in.
Most beginners start out the same way: trying different baits, swapping lures, changing spots, and slowly spending a small fortune chasing “the perfect technique.”
Fishing by the moon phases
Over time, they get better, but the real question remains: how do you go from catching a few decent fish to landing something that makes people’s jaws drop?
It’s not about throwing more money at the problem. It’s about understanding nature’s timetable.
A group of fishing enthusiasts from our own community decided to test a theory many old-timers have sworn by for years: does the Moon really affect fishing?
Over an 18-month mission, they tracked Moon phases, weather patterns, moonrise and moonset, and matched it all against their catch results.
The verdict?
It works - and it’s far easier than most people think.
We all know fish tend to feed during those classic golden hours, dawn and dusk, but here’s the twist: the Moon can be just as influential, sometimes even more so than the Sun.
The real hidden gold is moonrise and moonset.
These moments, especially when they line up with a new moon or full moon, act like a feeding trigger.
The fish don’t read calendars, but they do respond to the Moon’s pull and the subtle changes it creates in the water.
Here’s the key rule: fish are most active during the 90-minute windows around four daily events: sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset.
That’s 45 minutes before and 45 minutes after each one.
Hit the water during those windows and you’re stacking the odds in your favour.
And if you ever have to choose between sunrise and moonrise?
Go with the Moon. Its influence is stronger than most people realise.
Luckily, you don’t have to stand outside squinting at the sky.
These days there are apps that tell you exact moonrise, moonset,
and lunar phase times, so you can plan your trip right down to the minute.
And here’s a bonus: this week brings a full Moon!
When a full Moon rises it can appear 20 percent brighter and 14 percent larger than usual.
It’s spectacular to look at, and perfect for fishing too.
So, the takeaway is simple: Moon phase fishing really works.
Fish smarter, not harder.
Check the Moon, pick your moment, and you might just land the one that turns you into a ‘Local Legend.’
David Reneke is a feature writer for major media outlets and a science correspondent for ABC and commercial radio heard on over 50 stations weekly across Australia.
Get David’s free astronomy newsletter at www.davidreneke. com.
COST OF LIVING ASSISTANCE
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using
entitlements.
Japan and Ireland to face off in Newcastle
PREPARATIONS for the 2027
Rugby World Cup in Newcastle will ramp up early, with Japan and Ireland confirmed for an international rugby Test at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 11 July 2026.
Japan’s head coach Eddie Jones was in Newcastle last week to make the announcement, with the fixture forming part of the lead-up to the team’s 2027 Rugby World Cup clash with Samoa at McDonald Jones Stadium.
“Securing the Japan Ireland international rugby Test is a huge win for Newcastle, which has quickly become a powerhouse for major events,” NSW Sports and Tourism Minister Steve Kamper said.
“To have two world-class
teams playing in Newcastle’s own backyard will give fans a taste of what’s to come when the 2027 Rugby World Cup comes to town.
“These major events are providing real benefit to the Hunter community, boosting the visitor economy and showcasing Newcastle on the global stage.”
Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said, “Japan’s Cherry Blossoms and Ireland’s national team are two of the top teams in the game.
“It’s destined to be a great match and I know Newcastle will turn out for it.
“This announcement, alongside the Rugby World Cup in 2027, further confirms Newcastle as a premier sporting destination.”
Funding for animal organisations
FIVE animal rehoming organisations across the Hunter are sharing in more than $150,000 in funding, delivered as part of the first round of the NSW Government’s $6 million Companion Animal Welfare and Rehoming Grants program.
This funding will support projects like the
construction of a new cattery, and subsidising desexing, microchipping and vaccination.
Successful grant recipients in the Hunter include:
• Hunter Valley Animal Facility & Rehoming Centre at Neath - $46,440
• Central Coast Animal Care Facility T/As Maitland
Animal Rehoming Centre$32,940
• Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation$29,700
• The Stay Foundation$24,300
• Hunter Valley Cat Haven - $18,900
Hunter Valley Animal Facility and Rehoming Centre
President Peta Smith said,
“This funding is an immense help.
“It’s a lifeline that means we can now build a cattery on our property to house more than 20 cats at a time, helping to keep these precious animals off the street and away from harm.
“We’re all volunteers, so we rely on funding to help us meet the growing demand for animal rescue in the Hunter.
“This grant will also help us upgrade our power supply, ensuring our cats and kittens have a comfortable and secure environment yearround.”
Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation
Chairman Steven Fordham said, “We have many Aboriginal families across Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter who love their pets unconditionally.
“But for some families, the cost of important preventative veterinary care, such as desexing, can be a real barrier.
“This funding will help us strengthen our existing partnerships with local veterinary services so we
can provide more affordable desexing support.
“We are determined to help prevent unwanted litters and ensure pets remain safe, healthy, and at home with the people who love them.”
The Stay Foundation Managing Director Jesse Reinhard said, “Our goal is to keep pets away from pounds and rescue organisations in the first place, and this funding will help us provide vulnerable pet owners essential veterinary services in the Newcastle and Hunter region.
“This money will make a tangible difference to so
many pets and owners’ lives.
“It will help us provide subsidised desexing, vaccinations, and microchipping for approximately 74 pets, including 40 dogs and 34 cats, whose owners cannot afford preventative veterinary care.
“This is life-saving money, we’re grateful as it means we can keep this initiative running and save people from the devastating decision to surrender their pets due to financial hardship.”
The $6 million program, administered by the Office of Local Government, will allocate $1.5 million each year to eligible organisations over a four-year period through a competitive grant process.
q Members of the Hunter rugby community and local dignitaries with Japan coach Eddie Jones at the announcement last Thursday. Photo: Tim Crakanthorp MP.
q A cat saved by the Hunter Valley Animal Facility and Rehoming Centre. Photo: supplied.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
PATIENCE
ABC TV, 8.35pm The simmering tension between unconventional crime solver Patience (Ella Maisy Purvis, pictured) and detective Frankie Monroe (Jessica Hynes) reaches boiling point this week as the two clash over a crime scene. While they don’t see eye to eye on whether foul play is involved in the death of a botanist – or indeed the order in which they ought to investigate it –Patience really puts her superior offside by tripping over and destroying evidence, creating a mountain of paperwork. While Monroe charges headfirst into proving her instincts about the victim’s brother, Patience takes her time delving into the woman’s work history to find answers about the undetectable poison used to kill her.
FRIDAY, May 1
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. (PG) Josh Byrne uncovers a rare fruit collection.
8.35 Patience. (Mad) A woman is found dead under a poisonous tree.
9.25 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.
10.00 Urzila. (Mals, R)
10.25 ABC Late News.
10.45 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
11.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R)
12.20 Love Me. (MA15+s, R)
1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
TUESDAY
CLARKSON’S FARM
NBN, 8.30pm
Old habits die hard, and for professional revhead and former Top Gear co-host Jeremy Clarkson, that means there’s no problem that can’t be solved by acquiring an overpowered luxury vehicle. With his creaking old tractor out of action, the all-the-gear-and-no-idea Clarkson needs to get the ploughing on his Cotswold farm finished in time to plant a field of durum wheat. The answer? A bright green Lamborghini (naturally!) with GPS, a 7.8L engine and 340 horsepower. Farm manager Kaleb (above right, with Clarkson) is enthusiastic about the equipment at first, but a complex new console design and Clarkson’s “press buttons and find out” approach quickly become a hilarious headache.
THURSDAY
TASKMASTER AUSTRALIA
TEN, 7.30pm
It’s been a long time coming – the lineup for this fifth cast of announced in March 2025 – but the latest edition of the comedy game show is worth the wait. Three-time Gold Logie winner Rove McManus, co-creator and award-winning stand-up Celia Pacquola (pictured), radio star Joel Creasey, comedian Brett Blake and up-and-comer Anisa Nandaula don’t hold back when it comes to trying to earn the approval of Taskmaster Tom Gleeson and impress his assistant Tom Cashman. In this season premiere, the quintet of comics hold memorials for eggs, take on new middle names and travel to a new location. May the silliest sausage win.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 A New ANZAC. (Ma)
9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PGa, R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 The King. (Madlv)
11.50 Babylon Berlin. (Ma, R)
1.35 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R)
3.45 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.00 Sydney Weekender Special. Discovers the best Sydney has to offer. 9.00 MOVIE: Shotgun Wedding. (2022, Malv) When a couple gather their families for the ultimate destination wedding, the entire wedding party is taken hostage. Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel. 11.05 To Be Advised.
12.40 Quacks. (Premiere, MA15+d)
1.25 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 9. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: The Many Saints Of Newark. (2021, MA15+alsv, R) Alessandro Nivola.
1.00 Open For Inspection. (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)
Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.10 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.50 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 The Nanny. 9.30 The Addams Family. 10.30
6.00
SATURDAY, May 2
6.00
7.00
News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Death In Paradise. (M) The team welcomes a new recruit before they’re faced with a cryptic case in which the victim has left them a mysterious message.
8.30 Silent Witness. (Return, Mlv) Jack is apprehensive about the arrival of his new boss, having heard she is difficult.
10.15 Bergerac. (M, R) Shocking events unfold at a wedding reception.
11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.40 Merlin. 11.25 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGa)
8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)
9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (R)
10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 Matched. (PG, R)
2.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)
3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 Oops I Bought A Pub! (Premiere, PGal) Hosted by Shane Jacobson. 8.30 MOVIE: Hidden Figures. (2016, PGal, R) Three African American mathematicians play a vital role in NASA during the early years of the space program. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe. 11.05 To Be Advised. 12.05 Devils. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. (1977, PGv, R) A young man sets out to rescue a princess. Mark Hamill.
10.00 MOVIE: Justice League. (2017, Mv, R) Ben Affleck.
12.10 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.05 Tasman Trails. (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 new couple are ready to make a commitment. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (PGl) A couple contemplate leaving their home of 11 years. While he loves it, she feels the place is outdated. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R) In Brisbane, a bystander calls in a crash in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD involving a motorcyclist and taxi. 10.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) The team continues tracing Senior’s money trail. 11.30 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) A patriarch is stabbed at a debutante ball. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00
SUNDAY, May 3
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly: Claudia Karvan.
8.15 Bad Company. (Mn) Threatening staff cuts, Julia is challenged when her bored son explores the theatre.
8.40 Bergerac. (MA15+) Bergerac believes police corruption played a part in a murder.
9.25 Death In Paradise. (M, R) The team welcomes a new recruit.
Show. 6.10 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 7.45 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 10.00 Heartbreak Ridge. (1986, M) 12.20pm But I’m A Cheerleader. (1999, M) 1.55 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 3.40 Discovering Film. 4.35 One Of Our Aircraft Is Missing. (1942, PG) 6.30 Le Samourai. (1967, PG, French) 8.30 The Gentlemen. (2019, MA15+) 10.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Anne Boleyn And Elizabeth I: Prisoner Queens.
8.25 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (PG, R)
9.25 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (Maw, R)
10.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa, R) 11.10 Frogmore House: Royal Retreat. (PGa, R)
12.25 My Rembetika Blues. (PGadl, R) 2.00 Matched. (PG, R) 2.50 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PG, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
(31) VICELAND (31)
MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 10.20 Wonderfully Beautiful. (2022, M, German) 12.45pm 20,000 Species Of 3.00 The Red Turtle. Viceroy’s House. Loophole. (1981, PG) 8.30 Snatch. The Invisible Wounds. (2024, Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGdln) Hosted by Jim Jefferies. 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.00 Betrayal. (Premiere, MA15+lv) When an assassination links a veteran MI5 agent to a conspiracy, he races to find the truth.
11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: Predators. (MA15+a, R)
12.30 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)
2.00 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. 7.00 The Floor. (PG)
8.10 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
9.10 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators: Deadly Obsession. (Mav) Looks at Rachel Barber’s disappearance. 10.15 9News Late. 10.45 The First 48. (Mav, R) 11.40 American Ripper. (Mav) 12.35 Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
The Garden Gurus. (R)
Christmas In Alaska. (2023, PG) 11.35 Seinfeld. 12.05pm Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Newcastle. 2.05 Snackmasters. 3.40 MOVIE: The Dust Factory. (2004, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. (1987, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Suicide Squad. (2016, M) 9.55 MOVIE: Joker. (2019, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs. Morning Programs. 9.00 How To Fall In Love By Christmas. (2023) Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester United v Brentford. The Toys That Built The The
6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, May 4
6.00
6.00
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (Return) 8.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) 9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Premiere, Masv) 12.15 Gomorrah. (MA15+sv, R) 3.00 Mountain Vets. (PGa, R) 4.05 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (Mal, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.30 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. (Final) 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.30 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.35 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 8.35 Loophole. (1981, PG) 10.30 Ghoomer. (2023, M, Hindi) 12.55pm Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 3.00 Discovering Film. 3.50 Le Samourai. (1967, PG, French) 5.50 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 7.30 The Three Musketeers: D’artagnan. (2023, M, French) 9.50 Heavy Trip. (2018, MA15+, Finnish) 11.30 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, May 5
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.05 Exit. (MA15+av)
12.00 Breaking Point. (MA15+a, R)
2.35 Giving Back: Students Who Returned. (PGal, R)
4.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 8.25 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 10.05 White Squall. (1996, M) 12.25pm Let Me Go. (2023, M, French) 2.05 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 4.00 Loophole. (1981, PG) 6.00 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 The King Of Laughter. (2021, M, Italian) 10.00 Fame. (1980, M) 12.30am Made In America. (1993, M) 2.35 Late Programs.
MADE FRESH, MADE DELICIOUS
Chargrilled steaks Fresh Fish Pub classics Chef’s specials WEEKDAY LUNCHES
$20 meals + $5 schooner
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (M) 8.40 9-1-1. (M) May attempts to secure her first law internship. 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (Premiere, PGal) 12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7MATE (64)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PGl) An announcement turns the competition on its head. 9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.
The Agenda Setters.
Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav, R)
New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
7MATE (64)
6am Children’s Programs.
8.30 The Nanny. 9.30 The Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Innovation Nation. 11.40 Jeopardy! UK. 12.40pm MOVIE: Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. (1987, PG) 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Bodyguard. (1992, M) 11.10 Seinfeld. 11.40 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Explore. 11.40 Motor Racing. Formula E C’ship. Berlin ePrix. 12.50pm LEGO Masters. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Waterboy. (1998, M) 10.20 Seinfeld. 11.20
WHAT’S ON
Wednesday - Trivia from 6.30pm
Thursday - Meat Raffle & Joker Poker from 5.30pm
Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also available BEHIND THE BAR
8 tap beers • Great wines • Cocktails ENTERTAINMENT
Plenty to keep locals and visitors coming back
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
WEDNESDAY, May 6
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.20 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.25 Brush With Fame. (R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 China Bitesize. (R) 9.10 Matched. (PG, R) 10.05 Hidden Beauty Of Spain. (PGa, R) 11.05 Van Gogh: The Real Story. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Chernobyl: Chronology Of A Disaster.
8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (Premiere)
9.25 The Audacity. (M)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+sv)
12.05 Blue Lights. (MA15+a, R)
2.05 Classified. (Mlv, R)
3.45 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.30 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.35 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 The Agenda Setters.
11.00 Why Trains Crash. (PGa, R)
12.15 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)
12.45 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6am Australia’s Deadliest. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Business Builders. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Reno Rules. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30
9.30 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav, R)
10.30 9News Late.
11.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
THURSDAY,
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 11.20 Urzila. (Mals, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (MA15+, R) 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
(PG, R)
Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
7.30. (R)
(PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And
6am The Most
Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.00
The Movie Show. 8.35 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 10.10 The Three Musketeers: D’artagnan. (2023, M, French) 12.25pm Fame. (1980, M) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.50 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 5.35 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.45 A Private Function. (1984, M) 9.30 Brassed Off. (1996, M) 11.25 Late Programs.
May 7
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Hidden Beauty Of Spain. (PG,
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PGav)
8.35 American Prince: JFK Jr. (Ml, R)
9.25 Riot Women. (MA15+l)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Under The Bridge. (Ml)
11.55 The Unusual Suspects. (Mdl, R)
1.50 Beyond Signs. (MA15+av, R)
2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
3.50 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGaw, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Edge Of Tomorrow. (2014) 10.40 Brassic. 12.15am Count Abdulla. 1.15 Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.10 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Alone. 1.55 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 American Godfathers: The Five Families. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Brassic. Midnight Late Programs.
6am 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.25 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 10.25 The King Of Laughter. (2021, M, Italian) 12.55pm Official Competition. (2021, M, Spanish) 3.00 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 4.35 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 7.25 The Straight Story. (1999, PG) 9.30 Danny Collins. (2015, M) 11.30 May December. (2023, MA15+) 1.40am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)
8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGa) Street racers reach 192kmh.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec.
10.30 To Be Advised.
11.30 Code Blue: One Punch Killers. (Madv, R)
12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Police Academy. (1984, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
DRAMA
DRAMA (51) 9GEM
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
DUNGOG STORE CATTLE SALE
This Friday, 1st May @ 11:30am Dungog Saleyards
Full list of cattle to be sold available on website or from agent. www.dillonandsons.com.au
Further entries are invited and expected
Dungog Ph 02 4992 1704
A/h Kel Sullivan 0427 921 704 or Paddy Dillon 0428 921 009
ads@newsofthearea.com.au newsofthearea.com.au
NDIS Providers
Apoio - Plan Management & Support
Coordination
Area: Port Macquarie based, service Australia wide Ph: 1300 136 999
Email: admin@hunterpodiatry.com.au
Services: Podiatry
Hunter Podiatry Services
Address: 2/3 George Road, Salamander Bay Ph: 1800 693 338
I RECENTLY went to a fancy dress party as a tradie.
While I normally feel a bit reserved at parties, I was surprised at the number of people who initiated conversations with me. This helped me relax, and I ended up enjoying myself, whereas normally I'd be looking for an early exit. What does this mean?
Anna L.
Dear Anna,
This is interesting on a couple of levels.
OPINION
I could turn it into a punny joke around the tool that tradies hold up against every surface when they visit, straightening picture frames and swivelling the adjustable foot on the washing machine to stop that annoying spin wobble, and holding it vertically against your mother-in-law to make sure her legs are plumb after her knee replacement, but I won't.
I mean it's a genuinely interesting observation you've made.
I have some theories.
1. You felt comfortable in a physical sense: I've spent a time looking at tradies (not in a pervy, don't they make those King Gee Cotton Drill shorts shorter, hey, those Argyle Zip abrasion resistant scuff cap boots sure do accentuate calf muscles, ahem).
I'm of the opinion that tradie gear is practical, roomy, and appropriate for a whole range of social situations. Compare tradie wear to
normal party attire, particularly when you're a woman. Females commonly have to hold parts in and lift parts up and teeter around on heels the size of a precision screwdriver.
Our made-up faces involve more prep than an internal paint job, and don't get me started on the hair and nails.
It's a wonder, by the time we arrive at a social event, that we have the energy to lift a champagne glass, let alone hold a conversation.
And can you imagine, male readers, what it's like to wear heels at an event with multiple surfaces?
They get wedged in deck gaps, they act as golfing tees on grass, and the trip hazards on loop-pile carpet aren't worth navigating.
These are the concerns running through our minds while you chat about negative gearing. What we wouldn't give for
News Of The Area
some comfort-technology soles, a shirt with handy pockets and elasticised waistband shorts to accommodate the cheese and biscuits. Anna, I can imagine you felt the most comfortable you've ever felt in a party situation.
2. Because you felt comfortable, you looked comfortable, and hence approachable: Because women at parties are going through mental flow charts based on their attire, their facial expressions can give the wrong impression.
A woman pondering, for example, whether another champagne will result in her having to use the bathroom (potentially getting embroiled in new conversations, tripping over a Portuguese Water Dog, stepping gingerly across the aforementioned carpet, breaking a heel on the spiral staircase, then, finally, attempting to wrestle off her shapewear before she wets herself) will not look approachable.
A tradie, though, who knows
if he needs a leak he only has to saunter over to the nearest lemon tree, is going to say 'hell, yes' to that fifth beer, another five cracks at the cob loaf dip, and an in-depth conversation about flooding and drainage, because he's relaxed. And the other guests will respond in turn, thinking, 'That Jim guy is easy going. Great conversationalist. Always ready to pass a plate or lift an esky. Not so sure about his wife though. Seems uptight.'
diem, Jasminda.
Kids Boot Camp 076
AI cameras spotted more than 1000 bushfires over summer
By Jennifer DUDLEYNICHOLSON, AAP
ARTIFICIALLY intelligent cameras detected more than 1100 bushfires in Australia over summer, including some that would have been missed by humans until they posed a greater risk.
One fire outbreak caused by lighting strikes, for example, could have damaged a pine forest if cameras had not alerted firefighters.
Pano AI revealed the findings on Tuesday after installing more than 100 high-resolution cameras across areas of NSW, Victoria and South Australia.
The detections follow a summer of severe heatwaves
in several Australian states, and the fourth warmest January recorded since 1910, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Pano AI's fire-detecting technology, typically installed on fire towers, uses ultra high-definition cameras to scan for smoke during the day and heat at night.
It compares what it finds to a database of more than three billion images and alerts emergency services if it detects fire with a high level of confidence.
The technology identified 1132 unplanned fires during summer, including 667 in NSW.
Those fires were detected using 19 cameras, Forestry
Corporation NSW innovation manager Jamie Carter said, and had proven particularly useful at night when fire towers were unstaffed.
In one instance, fire could have risked a pine plantation if not spotted by the technology and brought under control by fire crews.
"There was a big lightning storm that moved across the Victoria-NSW border and one of the cameras over at Timbillica picked up about six or seven new ignitions after dark," he told AAP.
"Knowing they were there in the evening, a lot of good work got done that night which meant we didn't have big fires developing the next day."
The technology could not replace humans with local knowledge, Mr Carter said, but it was helping to monitor more areas and predict the spread of more bushfires.
"They're definitely having an impact on reducing the number of fires that would get to a size where they'll cause significant damage," he said.
The technology is used by more than 150 government agencies in Australia, including the NSW Rural Fire Service, Country Fire Authority in Victoria, and National Parks.
While early in its adoption, Pano AI chief operating officer Arvind Satyam said it had helped
firefighters reduce the time needed to call for aerial support from 30 minutes to five minutes.
"AI is absolutely being applied for good here," he said.
"AI can give you that advantage, can allow you to understand these incidents
A ‘beautiful’ morning as Dungog remembers
FROM Page 1
Number 2 Squadron from Williamtown RAAF base, operators of “Wedgetail” Boeing E-7 aircraft, supplied the Catafalque Party.
Wing Commander David Johnstone gave the
commemorative address, while Reverend Amanda Brockwell and Father Andrew Doohan gave readings and prayers.
Soloist Liz Stuckings led the singing of hymns and national anthems.
Bugler Bob Humphries played The Last Post and
Reveille as the flag was lowered and raised.
President of the Dungog RSL sub-Branch, Neil Tickle said that it was a “beautiful, foggy morning”.
He also mentioned in his final remarks that the RSL has opened a commemorative gallery of
photos and images.
He invited attendees at the Anzac day services to visit the gallery, which opened that day, situated at the rear of the RSL building.
Many of the images are of local servicemen and women.
As is customary, only
two wreaths were laid at the dawn service.
Dungog Shire Council’s wreath was laid by Councillor Liam Ley.
Other organisations, businesses and individuals were invited to lay wreaths at the main service.
The dawn service
sooner, gives you the context, allows agencies to respond safely and more effectively." Other efforts to detect bushfires early include Google's FireSat program that will use a constellation of 50 satellites to monitor remote parts of Australia by 2030.
was followed by a gunfire breakfast at the RSL club.
The main service and parade took place later that morning.
All around the Shire, numbers were significantly higher at services.
Parking was at a premium in Dungog, with the club crowded by lunchtime.
Lest We Forget.
Taskforce launched to accelerate hazard reduction
A NEW multi-agency taskforce has been launched to accelerate hazard reduction and better protect communities across NSW.
Launched by the NSW Government, Taskforce Fire Guard will bring together fire agencies and land managers to strengthen coordination and prioritise high risk areas over the coming months.
services and weather intelligence to support agencies to target efforts where they are needed most.
Service, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Crown Lands and Transport for NSW.
windows available when conditions are right.”
Operating from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) State Operations Centre, the taskforce will use predictive
Participating agencies include the Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife
The centralised body will support existing local arrangements by coordinating resources and using technology to plan and deliver hazard reduction more efficiently across the state.
Fire and Rescue NSW’s Acting Commissioner, Mick Morris said, “Taskforce Fire Guard is about strengthening how agencies work together to deliver hazard reduction burns where it will make the greatest difference to community safety.
"It does not replace existing planning or command arrangements, rather it supports them by improving coordination, situational awareness and access to specialist capability, enabling agencies to take advantage of the narrow
Current conditions have created a valuable window for hazard reduction activity with burns underway across multiple regions.
These activities are reducing fuel loads, helping to lower fire intensity and better protect communities ahead of future fire seasons.
There may be periods when communities experience smoke and residents are encouraged to download the Hazards Near Me app, follow health advice and take care while driving.
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said, “Hazard reduction is one of the most effective ways to reduce bushfire risk, and we will take advantage of favourable conditions wherever possible to safely carry out this work across multiple regions.
“While people may see
or smell smoke, these burns are carefully planned and closely monitored to ensure community safety.”
Since 1 July 2025, agencies have treated 45,000 hectares across NSW, helping to protect more than 127,000 properties through a targeted focus.
A list and map of planned burns can be found on the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw. gov.au/hr or download the Hazards Near Me app for information on upcoming hazard reduction burns in your ‘Watch Zone’.
People with respiratory conditions who are affected by bush fire smoke are advised to activate their health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary.
Health information is available on the NSW Health website and the National Asthma Council website.
q The technology is assisting firefighting forces to monitor more areas and predict the spread of more bushfires. Photo: NSW Rural Fire Service.
q Reverend Amanda Brockwell during her dawn service reading. Photo: Lisa Wiseman.
q The march through Dungog ahead of the main service. Photos: Dungog SES.
q Dungog High School students commemorating Anzac Day on Saturday. Photo: Dungog High School.
q Dungog High School students paying their respects during the main service. Photo: Dungog High School.
q The centralised body will support existing local arrangements by coordinating resources and using technology to plan and deliver hazard reduction more efficiently across the state. Photo: NSW Government.
Encouraging girls to join emergency services
THE NSW Government is encouraging young women and girls in the Hunter to seek opportunities in emergency services through the Girls on Fire program.
Girls on Fire received over
$180,000 in funding under the government’s Investing in Women grants, to provide teenage girls in regional and remote areas with a hands-on, practical program of what it’s like working in
Memorial triathlon
an ongoing fixture on the club calendar, honouring Brian’s legacy for years to come.
stated.
“Brian was loved and respected by so many.
“Whether it was seeing him flying around Hell of the West on his iconic bright green Trek Equinox, or proudly rocking his MTC budgie smugglers, he created memories that will live on in our club forever.”
The memorial handicap event is expected to become
This year’s competitors were met with a chilly, yet sunny morning, as the kids/ junior events kicked off first.
The young athletes showed determination and resilience in the cold conditions after leaving the pool and transitioning to their bike ride.
As the day warmed, so did the atmosphere, with strong participation across all races.
emergency services.
The nine-week program includes training in realworld fire and emergency skills, disaster preparedness across urban fire, bushfire, flood and climatic impact, and
support with applications to volunteer or work with emergency agencies.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison dropped in on a workshop in the Hunter last week and observed the impact the program has had building local girls’ leadership skills and confidence.
The program has run successfully in South Western Sydney, Casino, Moree, Walgett, Wilcannia, Tamworth and Albury, and has now made its way to Newcastle and the Hunter.
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said, “Welcoming this program to the region is a proud moment
for the Hunter and a big step toward getting more women into our emergency services which are so vital to our communities.
“We know the calibre of women in the Hunter - strong, capable and committed to their communities - and those qualities are what these roles require.
“When more women are there in the hardest moments of people’s lives, we’re building a frontline that better reflects the community it serves and delivers the kind of support that really matters.
“This program is about backing local women in and giving them the opportunity
to step forward.”
Girls on Fire CEO Bronnie Mackintosh said, “The nineweek Vocational Pathways Program gives young women the time, space and support to build real confidence, develop practical skills and see themselves as capable leaders.
“It’s not just a one-day experience – it’s a journey that creates lasting impact, stronger connections, and genuine pathways into future opportunities.
“The program highlights the importance of creating pathways, building confidence and investing in regional young people so they can see what is possible for their future.”
Some 500 girls have so far participated in the program.
Authorised by Alison Penfold MP, National Party of Australia, 144 Victoria St, Taree NSW 2430.
q Minister for Women Jodie Harrison dropped in on a workshop in the Hunter last week and observed the impact the program has had building local girls’ leadership skills and confidence. Photo: supplied.
q Scenes from the Brian Lawrence Memorial Handicap. Photos: Cory Small/Camera Crave.
Paterson Golf Club
SATURDAY 25TH APRIL
INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD FIELD | 41 members.
DIV 1 (<15) | Winner Greg Scott (6) 36 Points, Runner Up Jarrod Roberts (13) 35 Points, 3rd Place Paul Langley (13) 35 Points DIV 2 (16-36) | Winner Buck Campbell (24) 38 Points, Runner Up Cain Gorfine (17) 38 Points, 3rd Place Margaret Walker (23) 37 Points
Joseph Jackson (21) 36 Points, David Bambach (7) 35 Points, Lee Hunt (10) 34 Points, Peter Griffin (18) 34 Points, Noah Bambach (18) 34 Points, Edwin Orchard (18) 34 Points, Graeme Valentine (13) 34 Points, Greg Kellner (18) 34 Points, John Walker (11) 33 Points, Clinton Bridge (11) 33 Points, Greg Sainsbury (19) 33 Points & Benjamin Herden (18) 33 Points.
NEAREST THE PIN |
5th/14th - Noah Bambach (18),
6th/15th - Michael Dobosz (24), 7th/16th - Allan McKinnon (12), 9th/18th - Clinton Bridge (11) MEMBERS DRAW | No.20, Mark Farley (41st/41), $107.21 won, $107.21 carries forward MEMBERS EAGLES NEST | Unclaimed - 5 Balls UPCOMING EVENTS | 2-May Individual Stroke & Monthly Medal, 9-May Individual Stableford, 16-May 2-Person Ambrose Championships (1st Round), 23-May 2-Person Ambrose Championships (Final Round), 30-May Individual Stableford. Schedule subject to change.
NSW Origin cap for Olivia Higgins
By Chris KARAS
WOMEN’S State of Origin fever has gripped the Hunter region with Raymond Terrace golden girl Olivia Higgins a key figure in the 2026 NSW Sky Blues rugby league squad.
The Newcastle Knights international hooker gets another opportunity to impress in the Origin arena after missing the 2025 series that was claimed by the Blues.
Origin-winning NSW coach John Strange has named a 20-player squad to take on Queensland this Thursday night in
the opening clash at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
Higgins will play second fiddle to Sydney Roosters number nine Keeley Nizza but is tipped to make an impact off the interchange bench with her guile around the rucks and copybook defence.
She will be joined in the Blues squad by power running forward and Knights team mate Yasmin Meakes.
NSW selectors have named a well-balanced squad to tackle the Maroons that is more than capable of defending the prestigious Shield.
DUNGOG SHIRE COUNCIL
CONSENT PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
APPROVED DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS AND COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATES
Notice is hereby give pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (as amended) that the following applications have been granted consent during the period of 1 March28 March 2026
Game Two will be played at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, 14 May to kick-off the NRL’s Magic Round and Game Three at Gold Coast’s Cbus Super Stadium on Thursday May 28.
q Raymond Terrace rugby league product Olivia Higgins will play for NSW against Queensland in the 2026 Women's State Of Origin opener at McDonald Jones Stadium. Photo: NSW Sky Blues.
By Cory SMALL
q A young athlete competes in the Brian Lawrence Memorial Handicap event. Photo: Cory Small/Camera Crave.
