Gloucester District News Of The Area 04 MARCH 2026

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GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News

Wednesday, 4 March 2026

By Marilyn SANDERSON

REPRESENTATIVES from the CWA Gloucester Branch and Evening Branch recently did battle with peers from across the region in a fiercely competitive cooking competition.

Ahead of the CWA state conference in Forster in May, the Wauchope branch hosted the Land Cookery and Friendship Day at Wauchope RSL Club on Thursday 19 February.

It was attended by 52 members from 11 branches, spanning Gloucester in the south to Nambucca Valley in the north.

The competition was hotly-contested with 110 entries from across the Mid

By John WATTS

John WATTS 0438 346 544 watts@newsofthearea.com.au

Wendy BUSWELL 0415 124 960 wendy@newsofthearea.com.au

Marilyn SANDERSON 0419 627 663 marilyn@newsofthearea.com.au

Kim TEOH 0491 008 417 teoh@newsofthearea.com.au

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

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Gloucester

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Newsagent

Club Gloucester

Lovey's IGA

R & R Property

Gloucester Library

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Barrington Barrington Shop

Logging company fined $34k

A MID NORTH COAST

logging company has been ordered to pay over $34,000, and its director placed on a two-year good behaviour bond, in the Taree Local Court for a range of private native forestry offences at a property in Belbora in 2023.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) launched a prosecution against

O’Connor Logging Pty Ltd and its director Stephen Sean O’Connor following a series of inspections which found evidence of forestry operations in the buffer zone around waterways (called the riparian exclusion zone).

NSW EPA Director of Operations John Forcier said the unlawful operations had impacted native vegetation and caused up to 140 tonnes

of sediment to be washed into waterways that feed into Burrell Creek.

“The Private Native Forestry Code of Practice exists to safeguard native vegetation, soil and waterways, and complying with these requirements is not optional,” Mr Forcier said.

“As well as constructing and using a snig track and two log dumps within a

sensitive riparian zone, the contractor was using unstable stream crossings that were not adequately constructed to prevent erosion.

“Riparian exclusion zones are established to ensure soil erosion and water pollution does not impact natural aquatic ecosystems and our inspections found much of the work occurring well within these buffer zones.”

In addition to the total penalty of $34,000, O’Connor Logging was ordered to publish a notice regarding the offence in the Manning River Times and pay the EPA’s legal costs of $15,000.

Mr O’Connor was convicted and placed on conditional release order requiring him to be of good behaviour for two years.

Fred and Tracey combine for exhibition

By Wendy BUSWELL

“FROM the Heart” is the third joint exhibition by Fred Bullen and Tracey Sales, currently on display at the Gloucester Gallery.

About four years ago, Fred and Tracey found themselves on the sales desk roster at the Hastings Valley Fine Art Gallery.

“We critiqued each other’s paintings, which was mutually beneficial, so we decided to do a number of joint exhibitions over the coming years,” Fred said.

Fred has exhibited several times at the Gloucester Gallery, but “From the Heart” is Tracey’s first.

“Fred asked me if I’d like to exhibit

in Gloucester, and I was excited to visit somewhere new and share my art with the local community,” Tracey stated.

Making art has been part of Tracey’s life since she was a child.

“My Mum’s sister, Aunty Marilyn, had a big influence on my artistic life,” she said.

“She was a gifted artist and did many portraits.

“Putting marks on paper or canvas just came naturally to her, and as a child, I was in awe and wanted to be able to do that too!

“My father is also an architect and painter, so there’s a bit of creativity in the family.”

In contrast to Tracey’s early artistic

influences, Fred discovered his passion for art after retiring and moving to the Mid North Coast.

He notes that he has been inspired by tutors who were willing to pass on their skills.

“But, in a broad sense, artists such as Jackson Pollock, Picasso, M.C. Escher, and the French impressionists have guided me,” he said. Although Fred and Tracey have their individual styles they both believe their art is complementary.

Tracey expressed that both she and Fred have a love of storytelling, enjoy playing with vibrant colours, and appreciate nature.

“I have a number of different ways of

depicting the same subject, so that, combined with Tracey’s unique style, means there are a lot of conversations the viewer can join in as well,” Fred said.

Together, Fred and Tracey hope visitors to the Gloucester Gallery will leave with a sense of enjoyment and that the artworks resonate or unlock a memory.

From the Heart can be viewed at the Gloucester Gallery, from Tuesday to Sunday until 22 March.

Two charged after vehicle stop

TWO men have been charged with alleged commercial drug supply offences following a vehicle stop near Taree.

About 8.15pm on Tuesday 24 February, officers attached to Manning/Great Lakes Police District stopped a vehicle northbound on the Pacific Highway.

During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly located and seized approximately 1.25kg cocaine, with an estimated potential street value of $469,000.

Two men – aged 30 and 36 –were arrested and taken to Taree Police Station.

The younger man was charged with “supply prohibited drug (greater than or equal to large commercial quantity)”, and “deal with property proceeds of crime (less than $100,000)”.

The older man was charged with “supply prohibited drug (greater than or equal to large commercial quantity)”, and “drive motor vehicle while licence suspended – second offence”. They were both refused bail to appear before Bail Division Court 1 on Wednesday, where they were formally refused bail to appear before Taree Local Court on Tuesday 28 April.

Gloucester’s country women cook to win

FROM Page 1

North Coast.

The judge, Ellice Schrader from Cessnock CWA Branch, was very impressed with the high standard of entries.

The combined Gloucester Branches secured an impressive nine first places, six seconds and five thirds across eighteen sections, which covered cakes, slices, biscuits, jams and chutneys.

The competition is overseen by a dedicated CWA Land Cookery Committee and

is sponsored by The Land newspaper.

This cherished tradition marks its 75th anniversary in 2026.

To celebrate the occasion the cooking schedule included a surprise butter loaf cake.

“This is a very difficult cake to make because you have to make two cakes of different colours then combine the two to bake,” the CWA’s Barbara Reichert told NOTA.

Trish Mason from Gloucester Evening Branch won this section while Denise Hawdon came second.

Trish was also awarded second place for her jam, chutney and peppermint slice.

Denise was awarded first place for her light fruit cake, steamed fruit pudding and plain butter cake, and secured second place for her sultana cake.

Barbara Reichert‘s coconut cake and gluten free magic bean cake were winning entries while her light fruit cake was awarded second place.

First time entrant Lauren McRae was awarded second place for her butter cake and strawberry jam.

Gloucester Branch stalwart Christine

Bolton was awarded first place for her sultana cake and third for her plain butter cake.

Judy Hopkins was awarded first place for her coffee sponge cake and third place for her peppermint slice and Alice’s fancy biscuits.

While a popular CWA challenge, the Land Cookery Competition is also open to anyone who resides in NSW or the ACT.

Local Gloucester identity and ardent jam cook Bob Lamb was awarded third place for his tomato jam entry.

Barbara Reichert told News Of The Area, “The highlight of the day was when Eli Stuckings, a first-time competitor in the Junior Section for 18 years and under, was awarded first place for his chocolate cake.

“The recipe Eli used was handed down through generations.

“The recipe was originally his great, great grandmother’s.

“It was a wonderful achievement.”

Gloucester’s nine finalists will now compete in the Land Cookery Competition to be held at the CWA‘s Annual State Conference at Forster in May.

A monthly munch with friends

By Kim TEOH

BRINGING together the community for a no-cost meal, Café on Cowper started at the Gloucester Uniting Church more than ten years ago.

Following a kitchen renovation, members of the congregation said the updated facilities were too good to be used only for church events.

Wanting to use the space to

bless others, a free community lunch was born.

The two-course meal is free, although some insist on offering a donation to help with the cost of groceries.

At a recent visit to Café on Cowper, volunteer Bob Tebbet encouraged News Of The Area to listen to the camaraderie in the room.

“Can you hear that?” he asked, as the sound of

laughter, chatter, and clinking crockery filled the air.

The monthly event is supported by a local band of volunteers, including people like Margaret Clayton who complements the gathering with her piano skills.

Anne Williamson is one of the team of cooks who work out the menu for the following month.

“That’s why we love to run

‘UNACCEPTABLE RISK’

FROM Page 1

dangerous Bucketts Way/ Pacific Highway intersection in the foreseeable future.

Café on Cowper, just to see people enjoying themselves and having a jolly good time over lunch,” she said.

Café on Cowper is held on the second Thursday of each month at the Gloucester Uniting Church from midday.

“Everyone is welcomed at our next lunch on Thursday, 12 March,” Bob said.

“Come, join us!”

the operations of its existing Seaham Quarry.

“Transport advises further funding will be needed to complete development and delivery of the identified projects.”

Despite the apparent lack of urgency, former senior RTA traffic engineer Gordon

“Further investigations are underway to inform development of a business case for staged upgrades to improve safety along this section of the M1 Pacific Motorway,” Transport for NSW (TfNSW) told NOTA at the time.

Chirgwin has expressed his strong concerns about both the Bucketts Way and Medowie Rd intersections.

“I believe that the intersections of the Pacific Highway with Bucketts Way at Twelve Mile Hill and Medowie Road are of high priority,” said Mr Chirgwin.

“Both intersections present a high risk of serious high-speed accidents.

“From a few hundred metres north of Bucketts Way to south of Medowie Road there are… entrances to a caravan park; the Bucketts Way intersection; the entrance and exit to a southbound rest area; the entrance, bypass and exit for a southbound heavy vehicle inspection facility; entrances and exits for a northbound rest area, with a facility to enter for southbound traffic; and the Medowie Road intersection.

“With this number of conflicts, and given the traffic volumes, the potential for a serious crash is high.

“Also, there are usually traffic queues in Medowie Road and Bucketts Way, especially in holiday periods, and any impatience by drivers is highly likely to precipitate an accident.

“In my professional view, the risk of an accident is unacceptable.”

The traffic situation may get worse in the near future, with several new gravel quarries set to begin operations, and an application by Yancoal to construct a renewable energy hub at Stratford.

Yancoal has indicated that 350 workers will be employed during construction, which is likely to generate significant traffic along Bucketts Way.

South of Bucketts Way the Stone Ridge Quarry and the Eagleton Quarry have both been approved, and Boral is seeking to expand

All three quarries will be serviced by the Pacific Highway and Italia Road.

When fully operational, together they will require large numbers of daily heavy vehicle trips north on the Pacific Highway through its intersection with The Bucketts Way, before performing a U-turn and heading south again.

The Deep Creek gravel quarry at Limeburners, which was approved in late 2024, is estimated to generate at least 250 heavy truck movements per day on Bucketts Way when it becomes operational.

Additionally the government is now considering whether to approve yet another gravel quarry (Hillview Quarry) in Maytoms Lane, which would pour an additional 250 trucks per day through the Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection.

A 4 July 2025 submission

by Boral to the NSW Planning Department said as follows: “In conjunction, the Hillview, Deep Creek, Seaham, Stone Ridge and Eagleton quarry projects may be expected to direct up to 1,135 daily heavy vehicle trips through (or across) the intersection of The Bucketts Way and the Pacific Highway’s northbound lanes.”

The Bucketts Way/ Pacific Highway intersection is near the boundary of both the Upper Hunter and Port Stephens state electorates.

NOTA approached MPs Dave Layzell (Upper Hunter) and Kate Washington (Port Stephens) for comment about what steps they have taken, or will take, to improve the situation.

Both MPs essentially repeated what TfNSW had previously stated, with Mr Layzell adding that the Bucketts Way intersection was located outside the Upper Hunter electorate in the electorate of Port Stephens.

Speakers locked in for social justice event

SPEAKERS have been announced for “Hidden In Plain Sight: Connection with Purpose”, a free event showcasing the social justice programs and community organisations working in the Gloucester region.

Hosted by Gloucester Transitions, the event will be held on Saturday, 7 March from 1:45-5:00pm at the Gloucester Senior Citizens Hall.

The afternoon will consist

of two panel sessions and two main presentations, light refreshments and an opportunity to network and share ideas.

“Enjoy the opportunity to connect, ask questions and be inspired when hearing from those in our community working to find solutions and positive change,” said Gloucester Transitions Chair Julie Lyford.

“We have 10 incredible women who will present

their passion and drive for community building and change-making.”

Sonja Duncan will be the afternoon’s main presenter, touching on issues of ethical supply chains, modern slavery and worker exploitation.

Julie Lyford will also present a short visual overview of a life-changing visit to rural India, after recently joining modern slavery advocacy group

Voices4Freedom.

Joining the panel discussion will be Donna Kemp, Sophie Lenehan, Laura Fraser, Anna Burley, Nat Simshauser, Taylah Eyre-Hughes, Diann Relf and Dominique Jacobs.

Louise Duff will facilitate the session.

Please RSVP to gloucestertransitions@gmail. com or text 0424269784 as numbers are limited.

Nationals urged to ‘come clean’ over gun reform

NSW MINISTER for Police

Yasmin Catley is calling on the NSW Liberals and Nationals to “come clean” about a plan to “water down” the state’s new gun laws passed in the wake of the Bondi terrorist attack.

Minister Catley cited comments made on radio by Shadow Minister Anthony Roberts (Liberals), which suggested that the Coalition intends to move amendments to the firearms reforms.

The reforms passed by Parliament include:

• A cap limiting individuals to four firearms (with exemptions for primary producers up to ten);

• Restrictions on straightpull, pump-action and leverrelease firearms;

• Reduced magazine

capacity for Category A and B firearms;

• Mandatory gun club membership for licence holders;

• Stronger safe storage inspections and compliance requirements;

• An audit of existing firearms licences;

• A gun buyback scheme in partnership with the Commonwealth.

Ms Catley said the Coalition must be upfront about exactly which reforms they wish to amend.

“After the worst antisemitic terror attack our state has ever seen, we strengthened our gun laws to reduce risk and protect the community,” she said.

“If the Liberals and Nationals are planning to

water down these laws, they need to say so plainly.

“Which safeguards do they want to remove? Which limits do they want to weaken?”

In a statement to News

Of The Area, NSW Nationals leader Gurmesh Singh clarified his position.

“It is widely acknowledged that the new firearms laws have many loopholes and unintended consequences,” he said.

“For example, shortening the maximum licence period from five years to two years puts into limbo many lawabiding citizens who now face uncertainty about when they need to renew their licences, or if their licences are still valid.

“Two months since the

laws passed parliament, we’ve yet to hear even a whisper from the Minns Labor Government about the regulations that will sit alongside the new laws.

“The laws don’t come into effect until these regulations are written and will form the basis of how the laws will operate in practice.

“We will commit to fixing the laws once the Government actually finishes writing them.”

Mr Singh says firearms owners across regional NSW, as well as the small businesses and clubs that support them, are struggling with uncertainty caused by “rushed legislation”.

“We’re seeing community meetings with hundreds of people venting their

anger and frustration at the Minns Labor Government's mismanagement of this issue.

“Across regional NSW, we’re seeing record pest pressure with wild pigs, deer, rabbits and other pests

wreaking havoc across the landscape.

“The government should be helping farmers to deal with these pests, not make them the scapegoats for terrorism.”

Seniors learn about the birds and bees

By Marilyn SANDERSON

MIDCOAST Council is celebrating the NSW Government’s Seniors Festival, which runs until 14 March.

The festival is now in its 68th Year.

Its express purpose is to “celebrate the role and contribution of older adults in our communities.”

The theme for this year’s Seniors Festival is Live Life in Colour and what could be more colourful than our local

birds and bees.

Gloucester Library is hosting two information sessions about them.

The first session to be held on Friday 6 March from 10.30am until 12.30pm, aims “to explore the incredible birdlife and natural beauty of our region.”

The second session, Native Bee Presentation, to be held on Tuesday 10 March between 10.30am and 11.30am, aims to teach participants “about our fascinating bee species and

how to keep stingless bees.”

Other events around the MidCoast Council area include an iNature walk, which will explore the Dawson Wetlands; a Rock Art Workshop at Taree Library; a Wallis Lake Stories Cruise; a Paella Made Simple cooking demonstration at Tea Gardens and Old Bar; and a performance by the Big Fins at Forster Civic Centre. More information is available at Gloucester Library and on the midcoast. nsw.gov.au/seniorsfest website.

Have your say on estuary management

RESIDENTS can now provide feedback on MidCoast Council’s draft Southern Estuaries Coastal Management Program (CMP) that aims to protect the lakes, lagoons and river systems stretching from Wallabi Point to Karuah River.

"Our estuaries are such an important asset to the community because of their recreational, environmental, social and cultural significance," said MidCoast Council’s Natural Systems

Manager, Gerard Tuckerman.

These waterways are also a powerhouse of the local blue economy, supporting industries such as agriculture, aquaculture, tourism, and both commercial and recreational fishing.

However, Council warns that local estuaries are under pressure. “Land-use change, agricultural impacts, loss of coastal wetlands, altered estuary entrances, climate change, water pollution,

flooding and inundation, declining community stewardship, recreational impacts, biodiversity and cultural heritage losses are all key issues that need to be considered in sustainably managing our estuaries,” it said in a statement.

Community feedback will help refine the management program before it goes to Council for endorsement.

To view the draft program and have your say, head to https://haveyoursay.

midcoast.nsw.gov.au/ oursouthernestuaries before feedback closes on Tuesday 7 April 2026.

The CMP has been developed with funding and technical support from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, in collaboration with state agencies, Aboriginal representatives, and the local community.

CSIRO unveils $3M upgrade to energy lab

THE CSIRO has officially launched the $3 million upgrade of the Renewable Energy Integration Facility (REIF) at its Energy Centre in Newcastle.

The national science agency says the upgrade will significantly expand Australia’s capability to test, validate and commercialise technologies needed for a more sustainable, reliable and secure electricity system.

The expanded facility includes a suite of advanced capabilities, including the ability to simulate microgrids and grid faults, test inverter performance under realworld conditions and run large-scale experiments combining solar, batteries and electric vehicles.

One of its standout demonstrations is vehicle-to-

grid technology, which uses electric vehicles as flexible batteries to store excess solar energy and return power to the grid during peak periods.

CSIRO’s Chief Executive, Dr Doug Hilton, said the new facility provides a powerful national capability at a time of rapid change in our electricity system.

“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility provides industry, researchers and system operators with an independent laboratory to test how technologies such as wind, solar, batteries and electric vehicles can integrate safely and reliably into the grid,” Dr Hilton said.

“As Australia transitions to a cleaner, more electrified economy, we need the confidence that new energy technologies can operate

safely and reliably across the system. This upgraded facility strengthens Australia’s capability to test exactly that.

“The facility will support more efficient use of electrical infrastructure, ultimately helping improve energy affordability for Australian homes and businesses."

CSIRO Energy Systems Research Program Director Dr John Ward said the new laboratory will help Australia tackle both local and global challenges in the energy transition.

“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility allows us to simulate and stress-test real-world grid conditions, giving us deeper insight into how inverter-based technologies like solar and batteries perform as their share grows across the

electricity system,” Dr Ward said.

“Australia faces unique challenges – from long, remote distribution networks and record levels of rooftop solar, to increasingly volatile weather and rising demand from energy-intensive data centres.

“This facility allows us to work side-by-side with industry and market bodies to design innovative solutions.

“The facility also supports Australian innovation and manufacturing by providing a rigorous, independent environment to evaluate new technologies before they reach market,” he said.

The facility is open to external industry and research organisations for collaboration and

q Demonstrating Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology in CSIRO's Renewable Energy Integration Facility.

commercialisation projects that help address energy sector challenges.

Expressions of interest should be directed to EnergyEOI@csiro.au.

Australian start-ups and small to medium enterprises are encouraged to explore support through CSIRO’s Kick-Start Program.

The Renewable Energy Integration Facility upgrade was made possible with funding from the Department of Education’s Trailblazer Universities Program.

Expressions of interest open for Volunteer Grants

FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging not-forprofit organisations to apply for funding under the Australian Government’s 2025–26 Volunteer Grants Program, with expressions of interest now open.

Volunteer Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible community organisations that rely on volunteers.

The program is designed to strengthen local volunteering by

helping organisations remove barriers to participation and better support the people who give their time to serve our community.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our region,” Ms Penfold said.

“From sporting clubs and service organisations to emergency response groups and community associations, volunteers keep Lyne connected and functioning.

“These grants – albeit small in amount – do provide practical

support to ensure they have the tools they need.”

Funding can be used for items and services that directly support volunteers and volunteering activities, including:

- Communication equipment such as laptops, tablets, and radios

- IT software and technology upgrades

- Volunteer insurance

- Training and support materials

- Equipment to assist specific

volunteer cohorts, including young people, seniors, First Nations volunteers, veterans, and people with disability

Eligible organisations must be not-for-profit and demonstrate that they rely on volunteers to deliver their services.

Expressions of interest must be submitted to Ms Penfold’s office by 5:00pm on Wednesday 1 April.

The form is available via Ms Penfold’s website under the ‘How I

COST OF LIVING ASSISTANCE

Can Help’ tab.

“Lyne has a proud culture of volunteerism,” Ms Penfold said.

“I encourage all eligible organisations to put forward an expression of interest so we can ensure our local groups receive their fair share of the funding available to the Lyne electorate.”

For further information, organisations can contact Ms Penfold’s electorate office.

Weed action program gets an update

FOUR-YEAR funding is being made available to local organisations to combat the impact of priority weeds, updating a previously annual grant program.

The new $40.7 million NSW Weeds Action Program (WAP) is a key component of the NSW Government’s Biosecurity Action Plan, with funding being provided to 97 Local Control Authorities (LCA).

Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “The NSW Government Weeds Action Program’s four-year grant model provides certainty in budgeting, giving local councils and other control authorities the ability to put boots on the ground, retain staff and train new

weed biosecurity officers across NSW.

“This network of biosecurity officers sustains the surveillance, eradication and containment efforts on key high-risk weeds, including parthenium weed, alligator weed and frogbit to protect our valuable farming lands.

“Our Government has modernised the Weeds Action Program to ensure it can effectively contribute to delivering our Biosecurity Action Plan by delivering trained biosecurity officers across the state who can confidently undertake emergency responses.”

Aside from environmental benefits, Ms Moriarty said the updated program has significant financial upsides.

“Across NSW, the local control councils will invest an extra $2.19 for every dollar invested in our Government’s $40.7 million program,” she said.

“Every dollar the program spends is keeping our state free of Parthenium weed and that delivers $777 in benefits through increased agricultural productivity, reduced health impacts and environmental protection.

“For every dollar spent eradicating tropical soda apple there is a productivity return of $410 and every dollar spent eradicating Hudson pear returns $59 to the community.”

The new funding model was introduced after a review into biosecurity to improve its implementation across the state, cut red tape and provide greater certainty to LCAs.

The program supports targeted surveillance and rapid biosecurity responses, and is building a robust statewide network to prevent, eradicate and contain priority weeds by undertaking a range of actions, such as:

• Preventing Parthenium Weed entering NSW

• Preventing spread with the aim of eradicating Parkinsonia and Tropical Soda Apple weeds

• Working with landholders to contain alligator weed, frogbit, Hudson pear, Harrisia cactus and sticky nightshade

• Instigating surveillance and rapid response resources to detect new high-risk weeds early and act quickly to stop their spread

These high-risk weed species, which can cause significant environmental and agricultural damage and pose serious health risks to livestock, wildlife and people, require urgent action to stop them from becoming more widely established.

The new Weeds Action Program strengthens weed biosecurity by providing stable funding for risk-based planning, compliance and education, and ensures accountability from the LCAs through biannual reporting and evaluation.

The modernisation of the program also includes increasing collaboration between government agencies, councils, and farmers groups.

Led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the new four-year program will be delivered in partnership with Local Land Services.

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

BLUE MURDER MOTEL

ABC TV, 7.30pm

McLeod’s Daughters co-stars Michala Banas and Brett Tucker (both pictured) reunite for this Kiwi murder mystery with a kooky twist. Recently retired from the Sydney homicide squad for reasons they’re not willing to discuss, married couple Vinny (Banas) and Cole (Tucker) head across the ditch for a fresh start, buying a rundown retro motel in a seaside town near Auckland. It’s not quite the dream they had in mind though – the plumbing’s a disaster, the sign is permanently askew… and there’s a dead body in one of the rooms.

FRIDAY, March 6

Dogs. (PG, R) 2.00 Dog Park. (Ml, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Mal, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG,

7.00 ABC News. 7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh visits a colourful slice of Malta. 8.35 Professor T. (PGa) Professor T is out of prison. 9.25 Tonight At The Museum. (PG, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.

9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

10.25 Dog Park. (M, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)

12.00 Smother. (Mls, R)

1.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.45 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs.

TUESDAY

MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT

NBN, 7.30pm

Rolling green hills, tranquil bird song and luxurious accommodation – it might sound relaxing but there’s no surer way to ensure chaos and conflict among Married at First Sight than the series’ infamous Retreat Week. Like a days-long dinner party, the couples are encouraged to mingle, gain a fresh perspective and find out if their connections really work outside the four walls of their Sydney apartments. This year, it’s a bad joke that has sent the experiment into meltdown – with the fallout isolating Rachel and Steven from the rest of the group. At the final drinks night, Bec (pictured) is caught at the centre of the drama as the lingering tensions reach an explosive conclusion.

(PGa, R) 11.05 The Toy Hospital. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Marseille: Birth Of A Megapolis. (PG,

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World.

9.25 Fly With Me. (Ml, R)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Sisi. (PGa)

12.05 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)

3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

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

THURSDAY CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA

“I’m not really drawn to heroes,” admits actor Hugo Weaving. Perhaps most famous The ’s menacing Agent Smith, the Sydney-based star aims to find the humanity within the fractured and complex men he plays on screen and stage – be it English cricket captain Douglas Jardine in Bodyline or monstrous father David in Patrick Melrose. Strolling around Sydney with host Virginia Trioli (pictured left, with Weaving) for this brilliant arts-focused interview series, Weaving shares insights on his career, iconic roles and creative process. A fascinating figure who refuses the Hollywood life, Weaving finds a sense of place and belonging in telling Australian stories.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! (2008, PGls, R) A young woman invites three of her mother’s former boyfriends to her upcoming wedding on a Greek island. Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth. 10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R) A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren. 12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Addy and Colette feel the heat.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Brisbane Broncos v Penrith Panthers.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.

10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R) An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt.

1.00 Next Stop.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) 7.30 Jamie Oliver: Eat Yourself Healthy. (Premiere)

SATURDAY, March 7

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (Premiere, PG)

Follows two married Australian detectives.

8.20 Top End Bub. (Premiere, PG)

A couple’s perfect Adelaide life is interrupted when a family tragedy strikes and they’re forced to return to Darwin.

8.50 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) Commissioner Selwyn Patterson is shot while celebrating 50 years of police service at the yacht club.

9.50 This England. (M, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. 10.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Neil And Martin’s Bon Voyage. (Final)

8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (R)

9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R)

10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. 12.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men.

3.15 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)

4.15 Going Places. (PGl, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session. 9.00 Women’s Test Cricket: Dinner Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far. 9.20 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 1.00 Devils. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) 8.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R) A family plans a wedding. Steve Martin, Diane Keaton. 10.40 MOVIE: Moonstruck. (1987, PGal, R) Cher. 12.35 Epic Builds. (R) 1.30 Open For Inspection. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

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

6am The Movie

Show. 6.35 Discovering Film. 7.30 The Remains Of The Day. (1993, PG) 10.00

2.55 Mr.

SUNDAY, March 8

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (Final, Ml) It’s the day of Samantha and Steve’s wedding.

9.00 This England. (Final, MA15+l)

The country continues to cope with COVID.

10.05 Blue Murder Motel. (PG, R) Follows two married Australian detectives.

10.55 Top End Bub. (PG, R)

11.20 MOVIE: Partisan. (2015, MA15+v, R)

1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Meet The Hedgehogs. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

(2015, PG) 4.50

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Pompeii: Life In The City With Dan Snow. (Premiere)

9.15 Ancient Empires. (MA15+v, R) 10.55 Roberta Flack. (PGa, R) 12.25 Jackie And Lee: A Tale Of Two Sisters. (Ma, R)

1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1.

3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

(2008, PG) 6.35 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 8.30 Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 11.50 Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story) (2015, MA15+, French) 1.35am Black Swan. (2010, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs. 6am The

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG) 8.00 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R) 10.00 The Hunters. (Mav, R) 11.30 Border Security: International. (PGadl)

12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights. 12.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R) 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)

Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: Rocky Mountain Murder Spree. (MA15+asv)

The First 48. (Mav, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGad, R) A loving deaf couple try to break through a cavoodle’s separation anxiety. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. After years of impasse, an intervention is necessary for a Hunters Hill couple. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGs, R) Olympia and Matty each put together their own collateral for Julian, hoping to regain his trust after he makes a shocking discovery. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.30 10 News+.

MONDAY, March 9

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return)

8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.05 SBS World News Late.

10.35 Other People’s Money. (Ml)

11.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R) 12.40 Kate And Larapinta. 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 2. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Gladiators UK. 9.35 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, March 10

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (Premiere) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics. 10.10 The Agenda Setters. (Return) 11.10 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls, R)

12.10 Conviction. (MA15+a, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 100% Footy. (Return, Mal) Features the latest rugby league news. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (Ml) 11.30

(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.

10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Exit. (Mals, R) 11.55 The Carnival. (MA15+l, R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 3. 3.15 Safe Home. (Malv, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 6.20 Mosley. (2019, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Discovering Film. 1.05 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 3.05 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 4.55 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 6.40 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 8.30 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 11.10 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+, German) 1.35am Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.05 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.10 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 10.00 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 12.35pm Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 3.00 Mosley. (2019, PG) 4.45 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 6.40 Summerland. (2020, PG) 8.30 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.15 And So It Goes. (2014, M) Midnight Secretary. (2002, MA15+) 2.00 Late Programs.

Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.30 Into The Void: Life, Death And Heavy Metal. (Premiere) 11.20 Brassic. 1.10am WWE Legends. 2.45 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane makes a huge decision.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) At Jake’s father’s funeral, grief helps clarify his feelings for Amy. 10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.10 Dirty John. (Premiere, MA15+v) 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(62) 7TWO (62)

Start your day with coffee and brekky from 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, and great hospitality all day. Open Tuesday

WEDNESDAY, March 11

6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip. (Premiere) 8.25 Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (PG)

9.25 Prisoner 951. (M)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Face To Face. (Mals)

11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malv)

12.45 MOVIE: Cold Water. (2023, PGa) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 4. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

10.10 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R)

11.10 Unfiltered. (Return, M)

11.40 The Agenda Setters.

12.40 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 Naked City: HITMEN. (MA15+dlvv) 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Freddy And The Eighth. (Return, Ml) 11.30 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R) 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6am Black

Narcissus. (1947, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.15 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) 12.20pm Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.15 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 4.00 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 5.50 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.30 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 10.40 Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.

THURSDAY,

March 12

7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)

8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma) 9.35 A Spy Among Friends.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv)

12.00 The Hollow. (MA15+v, R)

1.05 Dirty Bird. (R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 5. 3.15 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)

4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(64) SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.45 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 12.15pm Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 2.25 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 4.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Unforgiven. (1992, M) 10.55 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 1.25am Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 4.35 The Movie Show. 5.10 Discovering Film.

(64)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ml) A driver tries to U-turn on the Harbour Bridge. 8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.

10.30 To Be Advised.

12.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

DEAR Jasminda,

I am doing a complete clean out of my home, but I can't decide what to keep and what to cull.

How do I make these decisions?

Claudia D.

Dear Claudia,

I am the wrong person to ask about this.

When I decide to clean my bedroom, I enter the zone of nostalgia.

Soon, I am surrounded by clothes from the 1990s, boxes of electrical cords that seem important (and yet I have no idea what they belong to), a boxed wedding dress, letters from friends, artworks that no longer suit our decor, but hold

fond memories, the kids' baby teeth, orders of service from every funeral I've attended, and childhood teddy bears amongst other items.

No matter how hard I try, I'm unable to take the next step, which is to realise that these are items I will never use again, except to remove them from drawers and put them back with every spring clean.

Marie Kondo would weep over my inability to declutter.

With each item, she would ask if it brought me joy, and I would not have a sufficient answer, except to ponder if joy is really what we are after when we rearrange our belongings.

I suspect it is not the freeing nature of joy, but the sentimental pull of nostalgia.

One of my sons has inherited this sense of longing.

He has it much worse than I do.

A couple of times I have tried to give away some things from his childhood - his Lego, a jar of shells, a size 5 hand-knitted jumper - and he looks at me as though I am

PUZZLES

trying to sell one of his kidneys.

My daughter, on the other hand, is a Marie Kondo loyalist. She will throw anything away without a hint of reflection.

Cards, clothes, trophies. She tosses them with abandon.

Whenever she does a cull, I head to the bin and do some surreptitious retrieving.

Somewhere between these extremes is probably where you want to be with your complete cleanout, and there are some great strategies for achieving your goal.

The best one I've found is to clear everything out of the room and then sort your things into four groups: Keep, Move, Donate/Sell and Chuck.

Start with one cupboard and don't move on until you have finished.

If you are trying to work out what to keep, interrogate your reasons.

If it's a pair of shorts, for example, that you've kept for 10 years because you're going to squeeze into them one day, let

yourself move on from that thought.

If it's a wedding dress that carries nostalgic memories and you have room for it, you have every right to hold onto it.

Make your decisions quickly.

DO NOT SIT DOWN (this is important).

As soon as you sit on the floor

and open up that box of photos and letters, Coldplay's Warning Sign playing in the background, you're on your way to an emotionallyoverloaded situation that no amount of storage boxes and Glen 20 will fix.

Carpe diem, Jasminda

By Paul DORIN

Ask the real estate expert...

PRESENTING YOUR FARM FOR SALE

When preparing your acreage or farm for sale, think of it like presenting a residential home - just on a much larger canvas. One of the biggest presentation mistakes I see in rural sales is the accumulation of old machinery, spare parts and unused equipment scattered around the property. I understand the practicality - “that might come in handy one day” - but when you’re selling, perception is everything. Buyers struggle to see past clutter. Instead of seeing potential, they see maintenance issues and expense. The result? Lower offers - or no offer at all. Clear it, sell it, or store it neatly away. Let your land shine. Ground presentation is equally critical. Slashed paddocks create an immediate sense of care and pride. Think park-like, not overgrown. Well-maintained grounds don’t just look better in photosthey allow buyers and agents to comfortably explore the property, whether walking or driving. When buyers can easily access dams, fences and boundary lines, they connect more confidently with what’s on offer. Presentation influences price. A tidy, accessible acreage signals value, capability and opportunity - exactly what rural buyers are looking for.

Finals cricket

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16

Club Gloucester then continued the momentum in the Tier 2 Manning competition, batting first to post a competitive 146 from 39.5 overs.

Lucas Summerville top scored with a composed 23, supported by Michael Wooster’s brisk 20 and Hayden Cornall’s efficient 14 at a run a ball, with extras again proving generous.

With the ball, Alex Jones led the attack with 3 for 24, while Ken Maslen’s

An author’s journey

By Marilyn SANDERSON

FRENCH born Australian writer Michel Vimal du Monteil was Gloucester Library’s featured author in February.

He drew in his audience, many of whom were aspiring writers, with an engaging and humorous recount of his journey to becoming a published author.

Michel was born in provincial France.

As a teenager, he left home to pursue business studies at university but spent much of his time playing rugby, boxing and sailing around Europe and

North Africa.

“I knew I could write but I just didn’t have the time,” he said.

In 1979 he moved to Sydney on a sixteenmonth contract with the French Australian Chamber of Commerce and decided to stay.

He embraced Australia’s surfing culture and pursued an array of jobs.

Michel worked as a windsurfing instructor in the Whitsundays, a translator and conference interpreter in Sydney and the Asia Pacific region, a trade consultant, and a voice over artist and subtitler at SBS in the

early years.

In 1988 he embarked on a career as an investment banker where he worked until he retired in 2011.

Living on the northern beaches of Sydney he pursued his love of surfing, motor bike riding and golf.

Still, there was no time for writing.

That was until one day in 2005 when he thought he would take on the infamous Long Reef Bommie surf break and got smashed.

“It was beyond my level of competency,” he confessed.

For a time, he could

SPORTS

Gloucester Pony Club

By Erin LUTE

GLOUCESTER Pony Club enjoyed a fantastic start to the year, hosting its first instruction day with 10 enthusiastic riders in attendance. The day was especially exciting as the club welcomed four new riders: Florence, Isla, Mackenzie and Olivia, who attended their very first rally day. The morning featured a special obstacle course session led by a guest instructor Leah from

outstanding 3 for 8 applied decisive pressure.

With both Gloucester sides bowling simultaneously on adjoining fields, wickets fell at both ends and cheers echoed across the ground, creating an atmosphere that showcased local cricket at its very best.

This team will host the Tier 3 Grand final this weekend starting at 1pm.

Rounding out a memorable weekend for the town, Gloucester’s other Tier 2 side travelled to Wingham and bowled first in their Tier 4 finals clash after

Golden Eve Carriages, who adapted her instruction to suit the club’s smaller mounts.

Riders learnt valuable safety skills, including what to do if they lose a stirrup or drop their reins, and practised foundational riding techniques such as walk, trot and halt. As the day progressed, riders built their confidence through a range of activities, including barrels, bending and pony bounce exercises. Despite the warm

finishing 11th in the Tier 2 competition.

Gloucester’s attack set the platform early, with Albie Cameron leading the way

conditions, spirits remained high, and the day concluded with an apple-bobbing race. It was wonderful to see so many new faces alongside returning riders from Gloucester 2025. Pony Club’s next instruction day will be held on Sunday 8 March, with further details to be announced.

with 3 wickets, supported by Charlie Bignell and Paul Goldsmith, restricting Wingham before the chase.

In reply, Cameron

no longer pursue his active lifestyle, so he began to write and quickly got hooked drawing on personal experience to write fiction.

“I wrote when it was raining,” he said.

“I wrote on planes when I was travelling for work.

“I even wrote in the office when bored.”

Encouraged by his wife, Annemieke, a trained editor, he continued writing until he finally had a completed manuscript.

His next task was to find an agent, but as he explained: “I wasn’t famous; I wasn’t a wellknown sportsperson; I wasn’t a criminal.”

Feedback from publishers was mostly positive but conflicting.

Michel accepted constructive criticism and continued to refine his work.

By chance, years later, Annemieke met an agent who was looking for new authors.

But it would be several more years before his manuscript was sufficiently honed and

ready for publication.

Finally, ‘Where There is a Will’ was published in 2021, 16 years after he began writing it.

The book received very favourable reviews and in 2024 Ulverston UK published it in large print format and as an audio book.

Michel’s advice to aspiring writers is simple.

“The process of writing is the process of rewriting,” he said.

“You learn not to take rejection personally.

“There are a lot of talented writers out there and the manuscript needs to be as good as it can be.”

His second book, ’Where to Now’, was released in October 2025.

Thanks to the lessons learnt from the long, arduous journey to get his debut novel published, the second one only took three years from inception until publication.

“I am not a disciplined writer,” Michel explained.

“I don’t write every day.

“But when the juices flow, I will write from breakfast time until Annemieke inquires: ‘Are we going to have dinner then?’.”

anchored the innings superbly with an unbeaten 60, well supported by Christopher Bolton’s late 7 not out, steering Gloucester

into the Tier 4 Grand Final. Gloucester will now head to Old Bar this Saturday to face Old Bar in the Tier 4 Grand final.

Gloucester Study Hub opening soon

If you’re kickstarting a degree, retraining into a new industry or simply taking the first small step towards study, get in touch with us. Supported

FREE STUDY

HUB + FACILITIES

Available 5am – Midnight for Registered TUC Gloucester students!

SCAN HERETOFIND OU T M !ERO

Gloucester Lady Bowlers

By Jennifer BURLEY

THE last Wednesday of summer was quite warm for the start of the Bonnie Hazelwood 4s, as numbers are down due to members still holidaying or waiting for cooler conditions there were only 4 teams drawn.

Joan Ridgeway,Jenny Stevens,Jenny Burley and Di Pritchard 19 defeated Jill Everett, Karen Heiningher, Suzanne Cross and Joy Hurworth 10. And Bev Germon( sub for Jill Carson)Paula Standen,Val Pritchard and Judy Sheely 20 defeated Lou Clements,Bev Murray,Helen Banks and

Kerrie Green 10. Therefore next Wednesday 4th March

Judy's team will play Di's team in the Final. On Sunday 22nd the final of the Mixed Triples Championship was played,starting at 8 am to

Rabbet in Steamy Hot Vets Golf Win

By Peter WILDBLOOD

IT WAS indeed a steamy hot day on Tuesday 24 February for the regular Veteran Golfers outing with a playing temperature of 38 degrees matched by Dale Rabbett’s winning Stableford score. The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Anne Wand. The winner in a good-sized field was Dale Rabbett with a score of 38 points. Balls were won by

Big Win in Golf Ambrose

By Peter WILDBLOOD

NEITHER the threat of rain nor its reality prevented a capacity field of players at the Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday 28 February for the Kelly Partners sponsored Four Person Ambrose.

beat the heat,with very competitive bowls from both teams. Joan Ridgeway, Neville Atkins and Tony Tersteeg 19 defeated Julie Kriss,Bev Murray and Steve Kriss 14, congratulations to all players.

Chris Steele and Carolyn Davies 37, Ele Fraser, Steve Hurworth and Tony Burnet 36, with the last two trophy balls won by Gary Peters and Debbie Sate 35.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Dale Rabbett and Denver Webb. At the 6th and 15th holes that honour went to Mark Stone. Last Tuesday, 3 March, the Gloucester Veteran Golfers were due to play an Individual Stableford sponsored by Gloucester Auto Broker & Detailing. Next Tuesday, 10 March, Cathy and Denver Webb sponsor another Individual Stableford.

The event was won in standout fashion, almost two strokes ahead of second place, by Nigel O'Neill, Ryan O'Neill, Dave Lyall and James Sepos. Their net score of

55¾ was almost two strokes ahead of Will Bosma, Dave Saunders, Steve Macdonald and Liam Wamsley 57 1/8. In third place were Josh O'Neill, Andrew Hill, Cody Knott and Ben Turner just a quarter stroke back at 57 3/8.

The Nearest-to-thePin trophy at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Dave Saunders while Steve Macdonald picked up that trophy at the 6th and 15th holes.

The long drive at the 8th and 17th holes was won by Dave Lyall. At the 1st and 10th holes that honour went to Tom Carter.

The winner of the Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 27 February was Rod Borrows with a Stableford score of 16. He was followed by ball winners Paul Blanch, Chris Steele and Jonny Tighe 14, with Dave Saunders picking up the last ball on a count back with 13 points.

This coming Saturday, 7 March, the Gloucester Golf Club will be playing its Monthly Medal, an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Arkwood Organic Recycling. The following week there will be an Individual Stableford sponsored by McGrath Real Estate.

Women on Wednesday

By Carolyn DAVIES

THE Beginners Day for the Gloucester Golf Ladies last Wednesday, 25 February, was the chance for those just starting golf to come along for a fun game, to meet some fellow golfers and enjoy morning tea to top it off after the game.

The day’s competition was a team Ambrose event, with the day's sponsor the Gloucester Community Shop.

The winning team was Alison Boehme, Susie Higgins and Carolyn Davies, on a countback from the team of Maggie Doyle, Anne Wand, Deb Sate and Myrelle Fraser.

Myrelle Fraser took out

the Nearest-to-the Pin prize on the 6th hole. The Gloucester Golf Ladies will start their regular season this Wednesday 4 March, with an Individual Stableford. Next Wednesday 11 March, Cheryl Goodrich will sponsor a Four Ball Better Ball Aggregate Stableford.

Finals cricket

By Nige MCINTOSH

GLOUCESTER’S Tier 1 cricket side delivered a memorable performance at No. 1 Oval over the weekend, hosting Forster in a match defined by discipline and pressure.

Batting first, Gloucester posted 95, with Landon Blissett top scoring with a lively 28, well supported by Adam Cameron’s patient 25 and Ryan Yates’ useful 18. Michael Fraser also contributed 10 in a total that proved more than competitive.

Bowling second, Gloucester took control early, with wickets falling in clusters.

Jamie “Emu” Andrews was the standout, claiming 3 for 9 from five overs, including a memorable hat trick that followed his excellent 97 with the bat the previous week. Gloucester Tier 1 will now travel to Taree this weekend to face Taree United for the opportunity to progress to the Tier 1 Grand final the following weekend.

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