Gloucester District News Of The Area 06 MAY 2026

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News

Riders battle mud and mountains

By John WATTS

WHILE the Anzac Day weekend was a relaxing few days for some, for others it was a chance to challenge themselves to cycle a brutal 173 kilometre, 4,000 metre elevation, on the roads and bush tracks around Gloucester.

2026 was the 10year anniversary of the Thunderbolts Adventure, which are rides that begin and end in Gloucester township.

The event is organised by Graveleur, and riders wishing to take part have the choice of three options. The toughest option is known as “The Monument”

FUNDING WIN

By John WATTS

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

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

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.

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

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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 firedetecting technology, typically installed on fire

towers, uses ultra highdefinition 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

Riders battle mud and mountains

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 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.

Lovey's IGA

Gloucester Library

Gloucester Caravan Park

Hebbys Bakery

Yates & Twomey

Hannaford

and involves the 173-kilometre ride over difficult terrain.

Josh Amberger was the first to finish, completing the course in just 6:55:45.

Despite the huge elevation and the difficult and muddy tracks, he maintained a ripping pace of 24.96 kilometres per hour.

Like every other rider who completed this ride, Josh was covered in mud from head to toe, thanks to the heavy high-country rain showers the previous day.

The second option is a 92 km circuit known as “The Colt”, which

follows the Scone, Mud Hut, Bowman River and Bowman Farm roads.

Stuart Holder was first to finish this ride with a time of just three hours and nine minutes.

Only about five minutes behind was teen rider Max Amidy and his father, Paul Amidy, from the Hunter Valley.

“My favourite part was doing the whole thing with Dad,” said Max.

Max explained that his least favourite part was getting cow poo in his mouth.

“It’s hard to keep your mouth closed when you’re going at your limit, but I’ll have to try harder.”

The easiest of the three

rides is “The Remington”, which is a relatively leisurely 46-kilometre tour “through the beautiful, gently rolling cattle country around Gloucester,” following Gloucester Tops Road and Barrington Road East.

FROM Page 1 by the Gloucester community.

He was particularly grateful for the help provided by Rotary and the RSL.

Mother-daughter pair, Donella and Olive Tutt, said they enjoyed the ride.

“It’s the first time we’ve ridden together,” Donella explained.

“The gravel was gorgeous, and the hills were not too bad.”

A combined total of 250 riders took part in the event.

Organiser Mike Israel was delighted with how the rides were embraced

In return, the riders pumped money into local businesses, particularly the pubs and cafes.

“As organisers we were very grateful for all the support we received from local volunteers and the local businesses, and in the future we are looking for greater community engagement,” Mike said.

“We are aiming for 500 cyclists at next year’s event on 24 April.”

New disaster capability for the Mid North Coast

DISASTER response and recovery operations across NSW are being bolstered as the State Emergency Service (SES) delivers 11 new specialised High Clearance Vehicles (HCV), a combined investment of more than $11 million.

“This investment brings our total number of High Clearance Vehicles to 20 and represents a significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability,” said NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM.

“We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations and the unique challenges we face here in NSW.

“Whether it’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to residents cut off by floodwaters, this new fleet means that help will arrive

faster when communities need it most.”

The new vehicles are being delivered to multiple flood and storm hotspots across the state including Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Forbes, Goulburn, Ku-ring-gai, Mid North Coast, Moruya, Murwillumbah, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga, and can be deployed out of area during severe weather events.

HCVs are designed to operate in extreme offroad conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to complete rescues, deliver essential supplies and support other emergency services in remote and hardto-reach locations.

The new vehicles enhance crew protection and safety for rescued persons with a fitted canopy and side

seating, while protecting equipment in harsh environments with sealed and pressurised underbody storage.

They also increase operational safety and visibility with a significantly upgraded scene lighting package.

Some of the new vehicles also have the capability to carry and load heavy supplies or equipment using

an integrated crane, which will strengthen resupply and recovery missions.

This storm season, NSW SES responded to more than 1,500 flood-related incidents, with many requiring vehicles that can get through deep water and reach people in remote or cut-off areas.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “I would like to thank our NSW SES volunteers for their

Busy month for CWA branches

By Marilyn SANDERSON

GLOUCESTER’S day and evening CWA branches have had a busy April.

In the second week of the recent school holidays, Gloucester Branch again held a Kidz Crazy Craftz morning, which was attended by 11 children.

This successful activity will again be available for children on 15 July, in the next school holidays.

Mother’s Day

Both branches are involved in activities to celebrate this Sunday’s Mother’s Day.

Barbara Reichert from the

Evening Branch told News Of The Area that members were baking scones for the Mother’s Day Breakfast at Gloucester Primary School on Thursday 7 May.

Sandy Tebbet from Gloucester Branch said, “Because the community markets are not happening,

dedicated efforts this storm season, and the community for heeding the advice of emergency services.

“The work doesn't end here for the SES and this multimilliondollar investment by the Government ensures volunteers are equipped with purpose-built fleet to keep communities safe all year round.”

One of the CWA ‘s primary aims is to support families who are doing it tough.

we will have a Mother’s Day event on Saturday 9 May at the CWA rooms between 9.30am and noon.

“Our stall will have cakes and crafts for sale, and scones for morning tea.”

State Conference

This year’s five-day CWA State Conference is being hosted by the Mid Coast Group in Forster.

“There should be about 600 members attending,” Barbara said.

Along with Denise Hawdon, Trish Mason and Eli Stuckings, Barbara has entries in the State Land Cookery Competition.

She also has two pieces of embroidery in the State Handicraft Competition while Jill Carson has entries in the Art Competition.

Sue Salter, Claire van der Stal, and junior member Alice van der Stal, from the Gloucester Branch, also have items in the State Handicraft

Section.

Claire van der Stal created a jacket from recycled denim, which she entered in the Agriculture and Environment Competition.

Gloucester Branch also has an entry in the International Book Competition, which features last year’s country of study, the Republic of Korea.

Culture and Cooking

Every month the Evening Branch has a cultural outing.

In April, Di Mansfield arranged for members to attend the local production of “Twice the Drama”.

“We were excited to have two of our members participating in the production,” she said.

Members of both branches are learning about Fiji - this year’s International Country of Study.

A combined International Day celebrating Fijian culture will be held on Saturday 18 July.

To help address cost of-living pressures, Trish, Cookery Officer for the evening branch, asked members to bring recipes for “feeding the family well for less", to the next meeting.

Barbara also said, “Watch for our next Bric a Brac sale to be held at the CWA rooms on Saturday 6 June, where there will be plenty of saleable items plus a cake stall.

“It is one of our major fundraising activities."

The next meeting for the evening branch will be at the CWA rooms on Thursday 14 May commencing at 7pm. Gloucester Branch meets on the second Tuesday of the month commencing at 10am in the CWA rooms.

Gloucester Branch also meets socially for ‘Yarn and Yarn’ on the fourth Monday of the month.

New members are always welcome.

Prestigious win for apprentice Mat

RISING talent Mathew Thompson has been crowned Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious 2026 World Butcher Wars, following an outstanding performance at Sydney Meatstock over the weekend. Competing in front of

FUNDING WIN

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participants aged 18 and over, has approximately 170 registrations each year.

The club runs both a winter outdoor competition and a summer Futsal season, providing opportunities for players to stay involved in the game year-round.

It is also actively involved in the annual Masters Games, working alongside the local

Sports Committee to support community participation.

The funding, which comes through the NSW Government Infrastructure Grants Program, marks a significant milestone for the club and the wider community.

Club President Trudy Schultz said the announcement was an exciting moment for the club.

"The committee is

absolutely thrilled to receive this funding,“ said Ms Schultz.

“These facilities have been part of our long-term vision, and we are excited to move forward and bring this project to life for our players, referees, and community.”

Ms Schultz explained that the funding had come at a particularly meaningful time, with 2026 marking 50 years of soccer in Gloucester.

"It’s wonderful to see this long-term goal finally become a reality,” said grant

massive, energetic crowds at the Sydney Showgrounds, Mat demonstrated exceptional skill, precision and creativity in the butchery arena while proudly representing Stroud Butchery.

Held in Sydney as part of Meatstock, the event provided the perfect high-pressure stage for the world’s best emerging and well established butchers, and Mat rose to the occasion with confidence and professionalism beyond his years.

Remarkably, Mat achieved this victory just eight weeks into his second year as an apprentice butcher.

Throughout the competition, he stood side by side with exceptional

co-ordinator Wendy Hughes.

“We have put a lot of work into grant applications over the past 12 months, and receiving this funding is a fantastic result for the club.”

Ms Hughes also acknowledged previous support received from Northern NSW Football, which helped strengthen the club’s position in applying for this major grant.

The Club intends to share updates with the community as the project progresses.

and master butchers from Australia and throughout the world, many of whom have been competing and refining their craft for years.

The World Butcher Wars competition is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most respected contests in the industry, bringing together top apprentices and master butchers from across the globe.

Judges praised Mat for his technical excellence, efficiency, and innovative approach to cuts, setting him apart from a highly competitive field.

“Mat’s performance was nothing short of exceptional,” said Mick, owner of Stroud

Butchery.

“His attention to detail, speed, and understanding of the craft truly embody the future of the butchering industry.”

Reflecting on his win, Mat expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete and the support behind him.

“It was an incredible experience to compete in front of such a huge crowd at Meatstock.

“I’m proud to represent Stroud Butchery and my trade and thankful for everyone who has helped me along the way.”

The win cements Mathew Thompson as a name to watch in the Australian butchery scene, as he continues to refine his craft and build on this remarkable achievement.

By Appointment only

Talking tactics for the winter ahead

RECORD-BREAKING

saleyard numbers at Scone, Tamworth, and Dubbo signals that cattle producers are selling down, with Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) urging landholders to keep making these proactive decisions as conditions tighten moving into winter.

Three key indicators point to increasing pressure on producers.

Scone’s largest yarding on record, with more than 4,000 head, reflects current on-ground decisions, while the LLS Farming Forecaster shows soil moisture levels in the red zone, and the NSW DPI Seasonal Conditions team expects much of the Hunter to be droughtaffected by June.

In response, Hunter LLS is partnering with livestock marketing and

nutrition advisors to deliver a six-workshop Livestock Roadshow this May and June, bringing together Livestock Officers and District Veterinarians to provide practical advice on feeding, animal health and sale decisions.

Hunter LLS’ Sustainable Agriculture team leader, Sarah Giblin said the volume of cattle leaving the Hunter to both northern and southern interstate buyers, tells an important story about the drought planning strategies already coming into play at the farm gate this autumn.

“For Hunter producers, managing dry conditions is not new and many have made early destocking decisions to conserve available feed and reduce risk,” she said.

“There has been solid demand in the yards for

restocker and feeder cattle, and cattle breeders have met an easier market to sell lighter cows and weaners rather than opting to feed.

“It’s time for land managers to focus on practical strategies for managing a tough winter.

“With dry conditions expected to intensify, our Livestock Roadshow events provide a valuable opportunity to develop a clear, workable plan for your stock, regardless of the size of your operation.”

The livestock roadshow will provide an opportunity for producers to connect with local experts, ask questions and share ideaswhether assessing paddock feed, designing feed rations or navigating the rising costs of fuel, cartage and stock feeding.

The events will focus on building confidence through practical, on-farm tools such as stock feed calculators, feed testing and pasture forecasts.

Taking a planned approach to stock

management can help reduce stress, protect groundcover and support long-term productivity, while keeping paddocks ‘rain-ready’.

Livestock Roadshow events will be held across the Hunter region at Krambach on 8 May, Merriwa on 12 May, Millfield on 13 May, Gresford on 14 May, Scone on 20 May, and Denman on 25 May. To register visit the NSW Government Local Land Services events page.

Budget won't be war between generations: treasurer

By Tess IKONOMOU and Andrew BROWN, AAP

POTENTIAL changes to negative gearing or capital gains tax in the federal budget would not be breaking the trust of voters, the treasurer says.

As Jim Chalmers prepares to hand down his fifth budget, the government faces accusations it is coming after "mum and dad" investors as family trusts join capital gains tax discounts and negative gearing on the list of possible targets for change.

While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ruled out negative gearing changes ahead of the 2025 federal election, the treasurer said intergenerational pressures would be a focus of the budget.

"The best way to build trust is to make the right decisions for the right reasons, there are genuine intergenerational concerns and pressures," Dr Chalmers told reporters in Canberra on Monday.

"This budget is not about and never will be about setting some Australians against other Australians, it's about recognising some of these legitimate intergenerational concerns, which, in my experience, these concerns are often

shared by older Australians."

Senior Labor figures have done little to dampen expectations the budget will deliver major changes to the capital gains tax discount and negative gearing for investment properties.

Asked on Sunday if the public would support changes Labor had not taken to the 2025 election, Mr Albanese said voters would make their own decisions about his government's record.

The budget is being finalised later than normal due to volatility in the Middle East affecting economies around the world.

While the treasurer said there would be a range of contingencies for further cost-of-living relief, a decision on whether to extend the fuel excise tax cut beyond the end of June would not be in the budget.

The excise cut wiped 26 cents off a litre of fuel at the bowser and was unveiled as a three-month measure.

"We've made it really clear that it's a temporary thing," Dr Chalmers said.

"If we get closer towards the end of that three-month period... obviously we've got a range of contingencies."

The treasurer also said the budget would have net savings for the second year in a row.

Dr Chalmers said there would be more dollars in savings than revenue upgrades or tax reforms in the fiscal blueprint.

"Savings and spending restraint is doing a lot of the heavy lifting in the very responsible budget," he said.

"So much of the heavy lifting here is being done by savings and re-prioritisations to make room for those pressures."

Some of those savings have already been flagged ahead of the budget, with Labor announcing at least 160,000 people were expected to be removed from the NDIS by 2030 as the government curbs growth in spending on the scheme.

The move will do the heavy lifting in budget repair, providing more than $35 billion in forecast savings, although states have sounded the alarm about the financial burden of people with disabilities being shifted onto their health and education systems.

A further $3 billion will be saved by removing the agebased loading for the private health insurance rebate, also announced in April.

In a speech to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Melbourne on Monday, shadow treasurer Tim Wilson

will paint the expected changes as a "tax agenda assault on family".

"Their capital gains tax applies to everyday Australians, mums and dads, but probably won't to industry super funds nor foreign investors in renewable energy," he will

tell the business group.

"Labor is building a class of Australians dependent on them being in office. This government is not about a better Australia; it is about securing power."

The government will suspend the commercial broadcasting tax for a further

two years as part of the budget, which it estimated would save the industry $111 million through to June 2028. The move follows announced restrictions on gambling advertising, which are expected to hit many media companies' bottom lines.

Feedback sought on fish stocking plan

RECREATIONAL fishers are invited to have their say on which NSW dams and impoundments they would like to see stocked with their favourite freshwater fish species, as the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) develops its stocking program for the year ahead.

DPIRD Aquaculture Director Ian Lyall said NSW is home to numerous impoundments and reservoirs well suited to freshwater fish stocking, helping create and maintain some of the state’s most popular recreational fisheries.

“Each year, DPIRD partners with recreational fishers and local communities to release key sportfishing species, including Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Golden Perch, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout into public impoundments across NSW,” Mr Lyall said.

“DPIRD has now drafted a new recreational stocking plan for the 2026–2027 season and is seeking feedback on the proposed sites and species.

“This is a great chance for recreational fishers to directly influence where stocking occurs in future seasons.

“They can even put forward new dams for consideration, provided there is practical public access and fishing is allowed.”

Mr Lyall said all fish stocking activities in NSW are managed sustainably under a Fisheries Management Strategy (FMS) and supported by an Environmental Impact Statement, with all proposals assessed to ensure they align with the FMS.

“Last season, more than 5.2 million fish were stocked into NSW waterways, and more than 3.7 million have already stocked across regional NSW for the 2025-26 season,” Mr Lyall said.

“Recreational fishing in NSW is a significant contributor to the NSW economy, and stocking plans play an essential role in building healthy inland fisheries, delivering fantastic fishing opportunities and supporting regional communities.

“DPIRD operates a network of fish hatcheries across NSW that produce the freshwater species used in our stocking programs, including the Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute, Grafton Aquaculture Centre, and the Dutton and Gaden Trout Hatcheries.

“These annual stockings are a clear example of recreational fishing licence fees being reinvested to improve fishing opportunities right across the state.”

Recreational fishers are encouraged to email their feedback on the draft plan to fish. stocking@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 22 May 2026.

To view the NSW Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan and for more information, visit: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/ recreational/resources/stocking/enhancedfish-production

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

OOOPS! I BOUGHT A PUB

SEVEN, 8pm

An actor and a teetotal filmmaker walk into a pub… No, it’s not the set-up for a corny joke, but the premise of this charming country adventure that sees Kenny star Shane Jacobson and his mate Dean Murphy (above left, with Jacobson) buy a tired old pub sight unseen and restore it to its former glory as the heart of the community. Their project is located in the tiny Victorian town of Dederang, about halfway between Melbourne and Canberra, where they assemble a colourful team of locals, tradies and experts to pull off the massive renovation.

FRIDAY,

May 8

MONDAY 9-1-1

SEVEN, 8.40pm

It’s grim, but rather standard practice these days for an episode of a crime procedural to kick off with a dead body. However, this unusual instalment of 9-1-1 arrive at the police precinct on a bike and ask for Athena (Angela Bassett), intent on reporting his own murder. The confusing situation begins to make sense when he starts coughing and falls to the ground, apparently poisoned. While Athena teams up with Major Crimes on the confounding case, Buck (Oliver Stark, pictured) hits rock bottom and comes clean to Chimney (Kenneth Choi) about his recent reliance on prescription painkillers. In touching scenes, the entire 118 team rallies around as Buck recovers.

WEDNESDAY ALEXANDER ARMSTRONG

He’s on Australian screens every day as the host of hit game Pointless, but British broadcaster Alexander Armstrong (pictured) can’t be confined to the TV studio for too long. In this new three-part documentary, the well-travelled presenter visits India to explore some of the country’s most famous destinations, gaining a stronger understanding of its rich history, sacred traditions and culture along the way. Wednesday’s first leg sees Armstrong dive headfirst into the glorious chaos and splendour of Mumbai. He gets a well-rounded view of the bustling city, checking out colonial sites, sampling street food and even touring local homes with a real estate agent.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Patience. (PGad) A monk is found dead in a chapel.

9.20 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

9.55 Urzila. (Mals, R) Comedic chaos from Urzila Carlson.

10.20 ABC Late News.

10.40 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)

11.25 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R)

12.15 Love Me. (MA15+, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Mystery Of The First Temple.

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 The King. (Madlsv)

11.55 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R)

1.45 Brian Cox: How The Other Half Live. (Ml, R)

3.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore 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. 8.00 Sydney Weekender Special. Discovers the best Sydney has to offer. 9.00 MOVIE: Tower Heist. (2011, Mls, R)

A building manager and his staff join forces with a thief to take revenge on a Wall Street swindler. With only days to go before he gets away with his crimes, they must work out how to relieve him of his fortune.

Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck. 11.10 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) 12.55 Quacks. (MA15+d)

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. North Queensland Cowboys v Parramatta Eels.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Snitch. (2013, Mdv, R)

A father makes a deal with the US attorney. Dwayne Johnson.

1.00 Explore TV Viking. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 10

SATURDAY, May 9

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (M, R) 1.30 Patience. (PGad, R) 2.20 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. (R) 3.10 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. (R) 4.10 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. (Final, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.35 Landline. (R)

6.05 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

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

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M) A game show contestant is stabbed during filming of the series’ grand finale.

8.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+v) Benjamin is visited by the police who promise to look into Gloria’s disappearance. Nikki performs post-mortems on a couple found in the woods.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mdl, R)

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

3.00 Stories From The Cities. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-BastogneLiege. Men’s race. H’lights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 1.

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 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGa, R)

11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 Matched. (PG, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGaw, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 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 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (Mal) Hosted by Shane Jacobson. 8.30 MOVIE: Apollo 13. (1995, PGal, R) Three NASA astronauts find their lives in danger after a potentially catastrophic explosion. Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon. 11.20 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv, R) 12.20 Devils. (MA15+av) 1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 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 V – The Empire Strikes Back. (1980, PGv, R)

10.00 MOVIE: Conan The Destroyer. (1984, Mv, R)

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

12.45 Tasman Trails. (R)

1.35 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. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A couple are looking for an outgoing pup. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Newlyweds must decide if their townhouse is suitable.

8.30

7TWO (62)

6am Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015,

Straight Story. (1999, PG) 5.05 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 7.05 The Little Shop Of Horrors. (1960, PG) 8.30 Treasure. (2024, M) 10.35 The Piano Teacher. (2001, MA15+, French)

SUNDAY, May 10

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 The Assembly. (R) 3.20 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia. (Final, R) 4.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.00

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Jimmy Barnes. (PGa)

8.15 Bad Company. (M) Julia learns about Margie’s famous sister.

8.45 Bergerac. (Mlv) Bergerac and Barney’s relationship reaches breaking point.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) A game show contestant is stabbed during filming.

10.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+av, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Tiddler. 3.55 Children’s Programs. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.50 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.40 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (PG, R)

8.20 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (R) 9.20 Tulum: The Last City Of The Mayan Empire. (Ma, R) 10.20 The Kim Dynasty: A Family Affair. (PGa, R) 11.15 MOVIE: Duran Duran: A Hollywood High. (2022, G, R) 12.35 MOVIE: Sheryl. (2022, Ml, R) 2.20 Matched. (PG, R) 3.10 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 4.10 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGa, R) 4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 Betrayal. (Malnsv) John tracks down an elusive Iranian general. 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: Family Secrets. (MA15+a, R) Follows a police investigation. 12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (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. (PGl) 8.15 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.15 Australian Crime Stories:

Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

MONDAY, May 11

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 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. 9.40 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Kids Baking C’ship. 11.05 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 12

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R)

9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav)

12.05 Gomorrah. (Malv, R)

2.45 MOVIE: Fiona Clark: Unafraid. (2021, Malns, R)

4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PGa, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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A 7.30 Special. (R)

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 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 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Mal) 8.40 9-1-1. (Madv) 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)

10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGa) 12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.05 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Return)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at the work-life balance in 2026.

9.30 Dateline.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R)

11.05 Exit. (MA15+av)

12.00 Breaking Point. (Mlv, R)

2.35 Primitive Medium. (R)

2.45 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

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SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am

Programs. 7.55 Joan Baez: I Am A Noise. (2023) 10.00 Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 12.05pm Man Who Didn’t Want To See The Titanic. (2021, M, Finnish) 1.40 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 3.40 The Little Shop Of Horrors. (1960, PG) 5.05 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 7.30 The Three Musketeers: Milady. (2023, M, French) 9.40 The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 11.35 Late Programs. 6am Forever

Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 8.45 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 11.10 Little Loves. (2024, Spanish) 1pm The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.50 Joan Baez: I Am A Noise. (2023) 5.55 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 7.35 Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 9.30 Love And Mercy. (2014, M) 11.45 Sing Street. (2016, M) 1.45am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Preparations begin for Archie’s birthday. 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 9.05 Doc. (Ma) While navigating the fallout from Katie’s secret, Amy treats a critically-ill patient with a dark one of her own. 10.05 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well. 11.05 The Agenda Setters.

New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

Home Shopping. (R)

NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News.

Chargrilled steaks Fresh Fish Pub classics Chef’s specials WEEKDAY LUNCHES

$20 meals + $5 schooner WHAT’S ON Wednesday - Trivia from 6.30pm Thursday - Meat Raffle & Joker Poker from 5.30pm Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also

WEDNESDAY, May 13

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm 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 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.

News. 7.35 Alexander Armstrong In India. (Premiere) 8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

The Audacity. (M)

SBS World News Late.

Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+asv) 12.00 Blue Lights. (Malv, R)

2.05 Classified. (Malv, R)

3.45 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (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 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv) Recruits must maintain their composure.

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)

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Why Bridges Collapse. (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.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Events That Changed Australia. (Madlv) 8.30 Outback Murder Highway. (Mdv) 9.30 NRLW Wrap: Women’s State Of Origin Special. (PG) 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)

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6am Discovering

Film. 6.55 The Boy And The Heron. (2023, PG) 9.10

THURSDAY, May 14

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 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 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia.

8.40 American Prince: JFK Jr: Ladies And Gentlemen, Meet George. (Ml, R) John F Kennedy Jr launches George magazine.

9.30 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Premiere)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl) 11.50 DNA. (MA15+a, R)

2.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 11.00 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 12.40pm Post Coitum, Animal Triste. (1997, M, French) 2.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 4.55 Discovering Film. 5.45 Moonlighting. (1982, PG) 7.35 Xanadu. (1980) 9.30 Walk The Line. (2005, M) Midnight Body Melt. (1993, MA15+) 1.30 Late Programs. 6am Discovering Film. 6.25 Xanadu. (1980) 8.15 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.05 Corsage. (2022, M) 12.05pm Ali. (2001, M) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.45 Monsieur Verdoux. (1947, PG) 6.00 Golden Years. (2016, PG) 7.50 Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979, M) 9.30 The Commitments. (1991, M) 11.40 Long Story Short. (2021, M) 1.20am Unfaithful. (2002, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.

MOVIES (32)

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

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PG) A laptop left on a rooftop causes grief for a sole trader.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec. 10.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) 11.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, 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.

6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny.

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SPONSOR A DISADVANTAGED AUSTRALIAN CHILD TODAY. The Smith Family 1800 318 238 Billy doesn’t have what he needs for school.

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

Last night I made a birthday dinner for my mum.

I decided to make the veggie burgers that I used to love as a teenager because I thought it would be nostalgic.

The dinner was panned by every family member as being 'bland', 'missing something' and 'disappointing'. I feel as though my energy and enthusiasm was completely wasted.

I doubt I'll bother again.

Dear Innes,

Innes P.

In a strange way, this reminds me of a fateful trip to Europe to try to

News Of The Area OPINION

relive my younger days.

Before this, my memories of Europe were of languid afternoons sitting at bars on the top of snowcapped mountains, vigorous clubbing, copious quantities of chocolate, fondue, and, importantly, the joie de vivre one experiences in the giddy throes of youth with a childhood friend.

The return trip had a few key differences.

One: I was decades older.

Two: I was travelling with a family including sulky teens instead of my lifelong friend.

Three: It was a different season, so the snow-capped mountains were replaced with fields of green (still beautiful, but inconsistent with my memories).

Four: There was an inability to bounce back from an overconsumption of food (and Schnapps -- but that's another story).

Sitting now, on my back deck, my mind is travelling back to experiences only accessible by drawing on my memories.

And that is the point I am trying to make (if I can pull myself out of the depths of sentimentality).

You can't recreate the past, Innes. I suspect your decision around the veggie burgers was doomed from the start, because it was never about the veggie burgers.

It was about a time of life when dreams and ambitions were within your grasp.

It was about the salt in your hair after a day at the beach.

The smell of coconut oil that you'd plastered all over your body. It was about a time as vivid and evocative as a Don Henley song.

And now it has been replaced with the cold slap of being an adult, (and solar keratoses from too much youthful sun exposure) coupled with an ungrateful family, and, to top if off, an unpalatable veggie patty washed down with alfalfa, a whole grain bun and wilted lettuce.

Heck, Innes, now I'm feeling despondent.

From experience, sharing meals based on memories can be a success

or an unmitigated disaster. Either way, no one can hold you solely responsible.

We can't relive the past, and we certainly can't expect others to understand the deeply personal elements of our particular blend of nostalgia.

Instead, they may view something important to you as 'bland', 'missing something' or 'disappointing'. There's nothing you can really do about that.

Well... nothing except perhaps swap out the veggie burger for a

Dorin's Drawings

baked dinner with succulent roast lamb, potatoes twice-baked in duck fat to give them that satisfying crunch, honeyed carrots topped with sesame seeds, homemade gravy, and a selection of sauces including mint sauce and cranberry (gently warmed).

I suspect that may help your other family members lean into their sense of yearning.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Ask the real estate expert...

Is Marketing Still Essential?

In today’s fast-moving market, the old saying still rings true… you can’t sell a secret. But how we market property has changed dramatically.

The majority of buyers now begin their search online. They’re scrolling quickly on their phones, often making split-second decisions based on the first image they see. If your property doesn’t stand out instantly, it risks being overlooked. That’s why professional photography, strong headlines and well-written copy are no longer optional, they’re essential.

When choosing an agent, take the time to discuss their marketing strategy in detail. Ask who they see as the likely buyer, how they plan to reach them, and what platforms they will use. A clear, targeted approach will always outperform a generic one.

It’s also worth noting that in today’s digital world, no agent has exclusive access to “Sydney buyers” or any other market. Online platforms have levelled the playing field. What matters is not who an agent claims to know, but how effectively they position and promote your property.

Marketing remains a key investment. Done well, it creates competition, builds interest and ultimately helps you achieve a stronger result.

Denise

OPINION

Who will social media tax benefit?

By Claire STUCHBERY, Executive Director of the Local and Independent News Association

YOU may have heard that the government is proposing a new levy on tech giants like Google and Facebook to help fund Australian journalism.

Before you look away, thinking ‘what has this got to do with me?’ – a quick question.

What do you like about the website or newspaper you’re currently reading?

Maybe it publishes stories and issues that other news outlets would never cover.

Maybe it represents your culture and platforms voices that too often go unheard.

Or perhaps it tells you what’s on in the community and contributes to making the place you live feel like home.

All those things matter – a lot.

Which is why we are fighting for the funds raised from the new levy on tech giants to make their way to local and independent newsrooms.

Because the concerning thing is, under the government’s current plan, they probably won’t.

To back up a little, what the government is essentially trying to do is ensure Australians still have access to quality news

and information.

As advertisers have increasingly moved towards digital platforms, newsrooms – whose work is often read or watched on those same digital platforms – have lost revenue despite still providing a valuable service to the public.

To use a sweet little metaphor, you could say newsrooms are making chocolate, but because the ads are printed on the wrapper, only the wrapper manufacturers are making money.

As a result, many Australian newsrooms have closed, laid off journalists or simply have not had the resources to dive deeply into the stories that matter.

So the government’s on the right track, broadly-speaking, because protecting news from our own backyard is crucial. But it’s a question of which backyard.

Quality journalism is key to a well-functioning democracy, and democracy doesn’t just happen in Canberra. Or Sydney or Melbourne or any other capital for that matter. Democracy happens all around us, every day. In the decisions of councils, the actions of local MPs, and the experiences of everyday people. But in news deserts, democracy fights for air.

Australia already has one of the most concentrated media markets in the democratic world. Our democracy has strong foundations in many other ways – think compulsory and preferential voting – but the lack of diversity in media ownership and voices takes us down a rung on the democratic health ladder.

The government’s proposed legislation risks further entrenching this if it doesn’t create a clear path for local, independent and emerging newsrooms to benefit from the levy on tech companies.

A percentage of funds raised through the levy should go to growing diversity in the news media industry, bringing new voices into the public dialogue and addressing news deserts.

The good news is we already have a policy framework in place outlining where government intervention is appropriate and needed through the News Media Assistance Program Policy Framework. Government merely needs to apply its own policy objectives to the estimated $250 million per year the proposed levy would raise for Australian journalism.

Basing eligibility around revenue thresholds, as the

Bootlegger boom: big excise fuels black market booze

current proposal does, will only entrench the status quo, further harm small publishers and volunteer-based community media, and benefit the big players (who have an important role to play, but not the only role). It creates further barriers to entry in a field that is already difficult but is so needed to help us know what’s going on around us.

In Australia we have long known there are some extremely valuable public services that cannot be funded by the user alone – think healthcare, education or roads. News and information is no different.

The government's proposed levy on tech giants is a rare chance to move the needle on media diversity and public interest journalism without dipping into its own pocket.

The trick now is to make sure the benefits flow to strengthen publications like this one right here.

About the author: Claire Stuchbery is Executive Director of the Local and Independent News Association, a notfor-profit representing more than 170 digital, local and independent newsrooms around Australia.

Haynes 0414 725 482 Email questions to: denise.haynes@eldersrealestate.com.au

By Jacob SHTEYMAN and Nick WILSON, AAP

&R Property

Estate Group

A SPATE of fire bombings could be just the beginning as concerns mount the tax system is driving a burgeoning alcohol black market putting lives and the budget bottom line at risk.

Police have not confirmed whether illicit alcohol was behind 15 incidents at hospitality

venues across inner Melbourne since 14 April, but the industry is warning Australia's high excise settings is fuelling organised crime.

Two more Melbourne hospitality venues were attacked in the early hours of Saturday, as police investigate whether they are linked to the broader spree.

A Molotov cocktail was thrown towards a licensed venue on Cecil Street at South Melbourne about 2.20am.

About an hour later, the glass doors of a Docklands restaurant were smashed before accelerant was used to set it alight, police said.

Three males - aged 16, 19 and 22 - were arrested in relation to the Docklands attack while no alleged offenders have been identified for the earlier incident.

Detectives from Operation Eclipse will investigate whether the incidents are linked to the broader spate of attacks on licensed venues.

If the alcohol excise is

left unchecked, the nation could face a second black market scourge, after the explosion in illicit tobacco that has decimated the federal budget's excise take and spurred gang violence.

The experience of the tobacco market was a "cautionary tale", industry body Spirits and Cocktails Australia chief executive Steven Fanner told AAP.

High excise rates equate to more than $30 on a standard 700ml bottle of spirits.

Mr Fanner warns the excise is interacting with the alcohol manufacturers remission scheme - a tax break intended to support craft distillers by allowing small manufacturers to produce their first 8500 litres or so excise-free - to do more harm than good.

The system is being gamed by dodgy operators and opportunistic middlemen, who are exploiting the scheme to buy up tax-free alcohol and undercut genuine manufacturers.

Spirits and Cocktails

Australia and the Australian Distiller's Association have written to the treasurer outlining their concerns over the scheme and calling for stronger integrity measures to ensure it isn't exploited by bad actors.

They estimate tightening the scheme could save the federal budget about $224 million over four years.

Last November, the Australian Taxation Office estimated illicit alcohol sales were worth at least $767 million, which was more than 10 percent of all spirits consumed legally in Australia, said the National Drug Research Institute.

A spokesperson for Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino said the alcohol remission scheme was about supporting Australian distillers.

"We take integrity very seriously. The ATO is responsible for compliance and we expect them to crack down on anyone who is doing the wrong thing," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Police were aware alcohol could also be

coming into the nation without being taxed, said Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly, although it wasn't clear whether the attacks were the beginning of an illegal alcohol trade war.

"That's the milliondollar question," he told reporters on Tuesday. "Everything is on the table."

But Det Supt Kelly suggested unknown crime figures were employing the same techniques used in the state's long-running tobacco turf war.

Nationals MP Pat Conaghan wants a review of the alcohol excise, which he says is unsustainable for operators and drives consumers to the black market.

As a former undercover drug operative, he believes enforcement agencies are severely under-resourced and penalties are far too low to act as a deterrent.

Mr Conaghan says there is still time to "break the back" of the illicit alcohol networks before they become entrenched.

"If we don't get on top of it now, it will turn into the same kind of monster that tobacco is," he said.

Nominate for Aboriginal Reference group

INDIGENOUS community

members are invited to nominate for MidCoast Council’s Aboriginal Reference Group.

The reference group provides an opportunity for an Aboriginal voice to guide Council on strategic decisions that affect the Aboriginal community.

“The key focus of this group is to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people in the MidCoast region,” Council’s Manager of Libraries, Community and Cultural Services, Alex Mills said.

“Members will consult with community and provide feedback to the community on the group's meeting outcomes.

“The reference group will also provide Council with advice and direction on cultural and language protocols.”

The committee includes Councillors, representatives of the Local Aboriginal Land Councils and the four Aboriginal working parties from Gloucester, Great Lakes, Taree and Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest.

Council is seeking expressions of interest from Aboriginal community members with a focus on Elders, Traditional Owners, Aboriginal young people aged 18-plus and Gathang knowledge holders from across the MidCoast Council area.

The Aboriginal Reference Group meets four times a year.

To find out more or to nominate visit www.midcoast.

nsw.gov.au/AboriginalReference-Group

Proudly imperfect painters

“HAVE a good weekend” is a sentiment that rang true for a group of painters who gathered in the Gloucester Seventh-day Adventist Church Hall.

“What a lovely afternoon,” said attendee Kim of the Sip and Paint event.

“We learned to layer colours to create a textured background and to let go of perfectionism.”

Letting go of the need to be perfect proved to be both relaxing and enjoyable for many in attendance.

Tracy and her friend Ann Marie shared similar sentiments, saying, “What a great afternoon meeting some very lovely ladies (and a gentleman).”

The Sip and Paint marked the first Ladies’ Time Out event for 2026, a monthly gathering held on the last Sunday of each month.

It was facilitated by instructor Michelle Gow, who confidently led the participants in discovering a different approach to painting.

Beryl Landers, the coordinator of Ladies’ Time Out, was pleasantly surprised by the strong

turnout.

“I was most encouraged to see the keen interest in the event.”

Since then, interest has continued to grow, with attendees telling friends, and others asking to be notified of the next Sip and Paint session.

Two other participants, Michelle Wood and her daughter Francis, agreed that it was an afternoon well spent.

“We had such great fun together and with other ladies we didn’t know,” Michelle said.

“We can’t wait for the next one.”

Concern about climate change increasing in Hunter: poll

SOME 30 percent of Hunter locals are more concerned about climate change than they were a year ago, a new poll has revealed.

The polling of 302 Hunter residents, completed on 20 March, was part of a broader poll of 1,965 residents across key renewable energy zones.

Renew Australia for All commissioned research firm 89 Degrees East to investigate public support for Australia’s shift to renewable energy across select Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) in New

South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

The poll measured sentiment towards the shift to renewable energy as well as perception of that support in key REZs.

Highlighting the results is Farmers for Climate Action (FCA) CEO Verity MorganSchmidt, who said they showed growing concern around climate change.

"Thirty percent of those polled in the Hunter have become more concerned about climate change in the

past 12 months,” she said.

“Bushfires (77 percent), heatwaves (75 percent) and floods (68 percent) were the top answers when Hunter residents were asked what had made them more concerned about climate change.”

According to the polling, 56 percent of Hunter residents blame energy company profiteering as the key reason for high energy bills.

“Others named global energy price spikes and coal

power station breakdowns; just 15 percent said clean energy was responsible,” Ms Morgan-Schmidt said.

"Some 69 percent of Hunter residents name solar as the ‘significant’ energy source for the future, while 43 percent nominate onshore wind, 42 percent say offshore wind, 40 percent pumped hydro, with gas and coal equal at 30 percent, and nuclear last at 22 percent."

Ms Morgan-Schmid said the data shows a striking gap between real and perceived

support for clean energy.

“Support for clean energy in the Hunter remains strong at 60 percent, with 17 percent opposed, and 23 percent neither supporting nor opposing,” she said.

“Yet, only 40 percent of those polled said they thought there was majority support for clean energy in the region.”

Support for renewable energy projects is often seen as mixed in agricultural communities, but one Gloucester farmer says that

Push-ups for better mental health

By Sis HIGGINS

LIFELINE Mid Coast is urging locals to register now for The Push-Up Challenge, Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event.

The tenth annual challenge runs from 3 to 26 June.

Community members are encouraged to sign up as individuals or teams, with funds raised directly supporting Lifeline Mid Coast’s vital local services.

Lifeline Mid Coast CEO Catherine Vaara said registering for the challenge is a powerful way to make a difference.

“The Push-Up Challenge isn’t really about push-ups, it’s about starting conversations, breaking stigma, and

reminding people that mental health affects every family, every workplace, and every one of us.

“From our Lifeline Mid Coast Centre, our team answered around 26,000 calls last year.

“Behind every number is a real person reaching out for crisis support, and that care extends beyond the phones through the support programs, community education, and training we deliver here for local people.

“This challenge helps ensure we can continue to provide local support when it’s needed most.”

Participants of all ages and abilities can take part while raising funds, with daily targets linked to important mental health facts.

Individuals aim to complete 3,307 push-ups across 24 days to honour the 3,307 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2024.

Those who find pushups too challenging can set a personalised goal, substituting exercises such as sit-ups or squats.

“I haven’t done many push-ups in my life, but I’ll be stepping up and taking part, and I invite others to join me,” said Catherine.

“Together, we can show that mental health is something we stand up for as a community.”

Founder Nick Hudson said the event has already made a significant national impact.

“What started as a simple fitness challenge has grown into a fun way for every

energy sustainability is “just good farm management”.

“As a farmer in the region, our focus is simply on running a more efficient and resilient business,” said Macka’s Pastoral Director Robert Mackenzie.

“We’re improving soil health, animal performance and energy use, with a clear focus on reducing our footprint, delivering benefits for both the business and the environment.”

Australian to connect with their community, get fit, learn about mental health and honour the lives tragically lost to suicide.”

As the challenge enters its tenth year, it has already encouraged more than one million Australians to take a proactive approach to their fitness and mental wellbeing. It has raised more than $60 million for mental health services nationwide, with organisers expecting those numbers to continue to grow. By registering through Lifeline Mid Coast, participants ensure funds raised stay within the region, helping to deliver crisis support, education and community programs.

To register visit the Lifeline Mid Coast website: lifelinemidcoast.org.au/pushup-challenge.

Zonta launches online club

THE Zonta e-Club of NSW and ACT has been established as a new online branch of Zonta International, a global organisation with over 100 years of history.

The small but growing group is looking for others who want to help build an effective online advocacy community focused on key issues affecting women and girls.

This year, one of the

group’s major priorities is raising community awareness about the new coercive control laws in NSW, with similar legislation expected soon in the ACT.

Unlike traditional Zonta clubs which meet in person, the e-Club is designed for people in rural and regional areas and for others who prefer to meet online.

“We don’t just raise awareness - we take action,” a

club representative said.

“And we’re building something new, which means members can come in at an early stage and help shape the direction of our work.”

Members come from diverse backgrounds - farmers, students, businesspeople, teachers, professionals, employeesbut share a common goal: creating a better future for women and girls.

For those seeking more information, a ‘Discovery Session’ will be held at 6.30pm on Wednesday 20 May via Zoom.

Existing members will introduce attendees to current projects, opportunities for involvement, and how individuals can use their voice as part of a larger collective.

“This isn’t just about joining a club,” the group says.

SPORT RESULTS

Andrews Leads Golf Champs

By Peter WILDBLOOD

IT WAS the first round of the Men’s Championships at Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday 2 May and all players found the going hard although that did not stop Jamie Andrews from turning in a round that left him six strokes clear of the field.

The event was an Individual Stroke with the top net score of the day turned in by Peter Markey whose net 74 earned him the Monthly Medal for May. His net score on the day

flowed from his gross score of 98 giving him the two wins in C grade as well as the lead in the C grade championship.

In A grade it was Jamie Andrews’ net 75 after a gross score of 77 that gave him the two wins in the grade and the lead in the overall club championship. In B grade it was Geoff Reynolds whose net 75 and gross 93 earned him the two wins in his grade. Balls were won by Peter Markey 74 Jamie Andrews and Geoff Reynolds 75; Paul Garland 76 and Brendon Murray, Mitch

Andrews, Ryan Yates and Dave Mann 77.

The Nearest -to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Jamie Andrews in A grade and John Cornelius in B grade. It was a full house at the shorter 6th and 15th holes with Jamie Andrews on target to pick up a double for the day in A grade with Brian Osborne in B grade and Will Bosma in C grade closest to the hole off the tee.

The long drive trophies at the 8th and 17th holes were won in the three grades by

Farugia Stars in Vets Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

THE weather was perfect on Tuesday 28 April as the Glocester Veteran Golfers turned out in numbers for their regular outing with Joe Farugia turning in a card showing a score six better than handicap.

The event was an Individual Stroke sponsored by Chris Steele and the winner with an outstanding net score of 66 was Joe Farrugia. He was followed by seven ball winners headed by Hugh Torode 68, and followed by Steve Hurworth 69, Mark Stone 71, Carolyn Davies and Ken Kelly 72, Anne Wand 73, with Trevor Sharp, 74, picking up the last ball on a

count back. The best putter on that day was Steve Hurworth with 27 putts.

The Nearest-to-thePin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Anne Wand and Hugh Torode with Carolyn Davies and Ken Kelly taking that honour at the 6th and 15th

holes.

On Tuesday 5 May the Gloucester Veterans were due to play an Individual Stableford sponsored by Ken Kelly. Next Tuesday, 12 May, there will be another Individual Stableford this time sponsored by Debbie and Peter Sate.

q An online meeting of the

“It’s about being part of shaping what comes next.”

Contact zontaeclubnswact

Jamie Andrews, John Cornelius and Paul Garland.

The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 1 M ay was won by Craig McLeod with 20 Stableford points. Balls were won by Steve Williams 18, Dave Mann, Ken Kelly and Arthur Poynting 16, and by Wayne Maddalena and Will Bosma, 15, on a countback.

This coming Saturday the Gloucester Club will host the third and final round of the Men’s Club Championships with another Individual Stroke event. The following Saturday Gloucester Outdoor Solutions will sponsor a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford.

@gmail.com for the link to the Discovery Session.

Gloucester Lady Bowlers

By Jennifer BURLEY

AFTER the heavy fog that hung down over the Buckets, the two Finalists vying for the honor of being the Single Consistency Championship winner for 2025/26 enjoyed a

Scorpions under 14s seal first win

By Trudy SCHULTZ

THE Turner Freeman Gloucester Scorpions Under 14s have secured their first three points of the season, defeating Great Lakes Vikings 6–3 at Boronia Park last Saturday.

The Scorps started strongly, winning the midfield battle early and controlling the tempo.

Despite dominating possession, they were repeatedly denied in the final third before eventually breaking through.

bright sunny day.

Congratulations to both

Judy Sheely and Bev Germon for making the final, but there can only be one winner.

Bev Germon 122 defeated

Judy Sheely 98. Well played to both ladies.

First-half goals from Peter Clinch, Eli Soupidis and Brock Gruisinga gave Gloucester a deserved lead heading into the break.

The Vikings struggled to build momentum until midway through the second half, when a long-range strike opened their account.

Gloucester was then forced to defend deeper and conceded twice more as the pressure mounted.

Strong defensive efforts from Max Dellsperger and Ewan Sheely proved crucial in steadying the side during this period.

Shifting to a counterattacking approach, the

Many thanks to Suzanne Cross for marking the match. There were 3 games of Social Play, 2 of 4s, each with a swinger.

Denise Redman, Karen Heiningher, Kerrie Green (swinger) and Bev Murray held the team of Marge Moore, Val Pritchard, Kerrie and Penny Gibson to a 14 all draw.

Debbie English, Julie Kriss, Gina Dalmulder (swinger) and Jenny Burley defeated Norma Relf, Ruth Redman, Gina and Joy Hurworth 19 to 11. And 1 game of Triples, Deb Horner, Jill Carson and Cheryl West 13 accounted for Julie Worsley, Helen Banks and Jenny Stevens 12. The draw has been done for the Thelma Bolton Pairs and is on the board with play to start on May 13th.

Scorps regained control of the game.

Eli Soupidis and River Cowley capitalised on the space, helping Gloucester add three more goals to seal an impressive 6–3 victory.

A special mention to newcomers Dean Freeman, Cooper Wenham, Matthew Ruyter, Brock Gruisinga and Lachlan Maggs, who all slotted into their roles seamlessly.

The Scorpions return home next Saturday, 9 May, with a 9:00am kick-off.

Come down and support the team.

Up the Scorps!

Four Ball action

By Carolyn DAVIES

IT WAS the perfect Gloucester autumn day last Wednesday, 29 April, with the pink galahs flocking and the orange leaves falling, as the Gloucester Golf Ladies played their Four Ball Better Ball Championships. The winning pair was Susie Higgins and Carolyn Davies with 46 Stableford points, edging out Moya Harris and Rhonda Nightingale, 46, on a countback.

“We knew we needed to make that last putt” was the lament of the runners up.

The winners won a voucher each from the sponsor of the day, Amanda Robertson.

Moya Harris and Rhonda Nightingale each won a ball for their efforts, with balls also going to Anne Wand and Gai Falla, only a point behind on 45.

Rhonda Nightingale won the Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 4th and 13th holes while Carolyn Davies was on target at the 6th and 15th holes.

On Wednesday 6 May, the Gloucester Golf Ladies were due to play an Individual Stableford for their Monthly Medal and next Wednesday, 13 May, they will play a Canadian Foursomes sponsored by Lianne Markey.