Gloucester District News Of The Area 18 MARCH 2026

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News

Local Community News ~ Proudly Independent ~ Family Owned Wednesday, 18 March 2026

Hardwood supply chain at risk from soaring fuel prices

By John WATTS

GLOUCESTER State Emergency Service (SES) members were honoured at an awards ceremony at Taree on 10 March, some for bravery and others for years of dedicated service.

Among the award recipients were Rob McNeice and Robert Seale, who received the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage for the rescue of a person from fast flowing floodwaters.

On 7 July 2022 a vehicle, which had attempted to drive though floodwater at Faulkland, was swept off the road into deeper water, trapping the occupant.

“At approximately

By Wendy BUSWELL

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

Environment group celebrates women

By Wendy BUSWELL

THE Gloucester Environment Group (GEG) held its annual International Women’s Day (IWD) event on Sunday, 8 March. Co-organiser Dianne

Montague said the IWD event, brought to life for the first time three years ago, was always a “joyful day”.

Another GEG member, Megan Dewsnap, said the annual celebration is “an opportunity for local women to come together, tell stories and celebrate womanhood”.

This year’s guest speaker was ex-MidCoast councillor Kathryn Stinson, who shared what it was like being a young woman working in local government.

“We love having local women speak at this event,” member Sue Watts remarked.

International Women’s Day has deep roots.

Clara Zetkin first proposed the idea back

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in 1910 at the Second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen.

The idea was realised the following year when over one million women and men attended International Women’s Day rallies in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.

Australia held its first International Women’s Day event in 1928.

“It is important to honour the history of International Women’s Day,” GEG member Janine Phillips told News Of The Area.

“We have to remember the shoulders we are standing on.”

Sue Sedgewick said IWD was a time to not only celebrate women but also to consider what can be done in the future.

Building awareness was another key factor for organising the event.

“We have come a long way, but there is still inequality that needs to be addressed,” Ms Montague explained.

A community conversation with purpose

GLOUCESTER Transitions Inc brought the community together for a powerful and uplifting afternoon exploring social justice, modern slavery and the strength of community connection on Saturday, 7 March.

Around 75 locals attended the “Hidden in Plain Sight - Connection with Purpose” event, many arriving with homemade cakes to share.

A highlight of the afternoon was a panel of local women who shared stories about their work and passions.

“Donna Kemp, Diann Relf, Nat Simshauser, Anna Burley, Sophie Lenehan, Laura Fraser, Dominique Jacobs and Taylah Eyre-Hughes spoke about their involvement in Gloucester and beyond, reminding us of the many ways people quietly contribute to making our community stronger,” Gloucester Transitions said in a statement.

Guest speaker Sonja Duncan delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “33 Slaves Work for Me”.

Her talk explored the reality that modern slavery still exists around the world and that most of us are unknowingly connected to it through everyday global supply chains.

While confronting at times, Sonja’s

message encouraged people to think about the choices we make and how awareness can lead to positive change.

Julie Lyford shared a short photographic journey through northern India and the work of Voices4Freedom, an organisation helping entire villages escape bonded slavery.

Her presentation showed how communities can work together to create real change and opened the door for future local fundraising to support this life-changing work.

The afternoon concluded with a lively community conversation facilitated by Louise Duff, where attendees shared ideas about the future of Gloucester and what matters most to them.

Themes that emerged included:

• Supporting safe and empowered young people

• Caring for our elders

• Building ethical, sustainable communities

• Strengthening diversity and inclusion

• Creating opportunities for safe, active and equal participation for women Gloucester Transitions extended thanks

to everyone who attended and contributed to the day, especially Richard Birdsey, Vicki Coombes, Pam Hannaford, Jenny Lindsay, Garry Lyford, Pippa Robinson and Dom Jacobs for their help behind the scenes. Plans are already underway for the next community event in Autumn.

A FIFTH-GENERATION

family timber operation in Bulahdelah says it is absorbing an almost $8000 weekly fuel surge to keep hardwood moving to Australia's cities.

Anthony Dorney and his brothers operate two hardwood sawmills, SA Relf and Newells Creek, continuing a timber cutting tradition which has lasted for more than a century. Last

week, Anthony pulled up to the bowser and paid $2.90 a litre.

"It's obscene," he said.

In a single week, the Dorneys say daily fuel costs across the two operations have climbed by more than $7,800.

Every tonne of Tallowwood, Ironbark and Blackbutt that leaves Bulahdelah does so on the back of a fuel-powered truck.

The two mills employ more than ten percent of the local town's population and supply a large share of north-east NSW's hardwoodrunning supply chains south to Sydney and the Central Coast, west to Canberra, and north to Brisbane.

"It's not a case of panic buying," Dorney said.

"It's all due to a critical shortage at the bowser and growing rationing between customers."

Nationals MP Alison Penfold, the Member for Lyne, raised the issue directly to Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen in Federal Parliament last week.

“Yesterday the minister insisted that there is no fuel supply shortage,” Ms Penfold

said.

“The Dorney family in Bulahdelah run two timber mills, multiple hauling and felling crews, and a fleet of logging and freight trucks.

“In one week alone, their daily fuel costs have increased by $7,800.

“Minister, under your watch, why are Australians like the Dorney family, and their business, running out of fuel?”

Mr Bowen acknowledged regional supply chains are under severe pressure and confirmed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has been directed to impose hard penalties against profiteering.

“We've been very clear that no-one in the fuel supply chain should seek business or economic benefit out of that,” he said.

Timber industry body Forest and Wood Communities Australia

Body located after house fire

THE body of a man was located following a house fire at Gloucester on Monday, 9 March.

Emergency services were called to Mahogany Drive, Gloucester at about 10am, following reports of a fire.

At the scene, police located a home fully alight.

NSW RFS and FRNSW firefighters extinguished

(FWCA) is warning that soaring regional fuel prices are threatening the nation’s hardwood supply chain.

the blaze, however the home was destroyed.

Following a search of the home, police located the body of a senior man.

The scene was examined by police and other specialist resources, with inquiries continuing into the circumstances surrounding the fire. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

"With 90 percent of our population living on just 0.25 percent of Australia’s land mass, regional communities are feeling the impact of surging fuel prices more acutely than their city cousins,” said FWCA chairman Steve Dobbyns.

“The cost of fuel is up to a dollar higher in regional communities and they can’t just walk to the shops or catch a train."

SES members honoured for courage and long service

10.30pm Gloucester SES volunteers responded to a swift water rescue on a flooded causeway,” said Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns, when presenting the courage awards.

“A 65-year-old man had driven his vehicle into

floodwater and was swept off the crossing, becoming stranded on the top of his vehicle in a very fast-moving Gloucester River,” Kearns said.

“In extremely dangerous nighttime conditions, including strong currents, cold water, debris and limited visibility, these two entered the floodwater, while

other members secured the riverbank.

“They successfully reached the stranded driver and were able to bring him safely back to shore.”

John Johnson and Mark Campbell were also honoured for 45 years of volunteer service to the SES, and the Gloucester Unit itself received

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an award for its exceptional role in relation to the flooding.

“John Johnston and Mark Campbell both deserved recognition for their 45 years of exceptional professionalism, dedication and commitment in service to the Gloucester community,” said Mr McNeice, who serves as the Gloucester SES Unit

Commander.

“I am so proud of our Unit for being given an award recognising the work it put in during floods.”

Mr McNeice said the Gloucester SES unit is always seeking the support of new members from the next generation to carry on serving the community in its times of

need.

“If you can see yourself in orange, come and learn some exciting new skills to help others,” he added.

Members train every Tuesday night at 23 Tate street, Gloucester commencing at 7pm. Visitors or new members are most welcome.

Landscape inspires Stroud author

By Thomas O’KEEFE

STROUD author Rachel Barry has released a new children’s book inspired by the creeks, wildlife and landscapes of the region.

Set in Worimi Country, the story invites children to slow down and observe the quiet beauty of a bushland creek.

It was inspired by Rachel’s own experiences exploring local waterways with her children.

“‘Where Ripples Rise” encourages curiosity, mindfulness and a love of nature, including a special highlight of the local platypus – Yapii in the Gathang language – which is, happily, quite abundant across the region,” Rachel told News Of The Area.

“The project was developed in collaboration with Worimi Traditional Owner Justin Ridgeway, who assisted with the inclusion of words for local plants and animals in the Gathang language, giving children the opportunity to learn language while deepening their understanding of Country.”

Uncle Justin also provided a Worimi Dreaming story of Yapii the platypus, as an added bonus for the book’s publication.

Rachel and illustrator Estelle Leishman share a strong commitment to sustainability and nurture a love of the natural world in children.

They also hold a deep respect for Aboriginal culture

and knowledge, which is thoughtfully reflected throughout the book.

Estelle’s detailed artwork brings the creek environment to life.

The illustrations were made with eco-paints, created from natural materials gathered at the creek.

The book also includes a hidden creature activity, encouraging children to become naturalists and search the pages for bushland animals.

“‘Where Ripples Rise’ offers a meaningful learning opportunity for children,” said Karuah Public School Principal Toni Lyle.

“This gentle story shows us the bridge between curiosity, learning and genuine heartfelt

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connections to Country.”

Aboriginal Education Officer Nicki Ridgeway also praised the book, describing it as “a beautiful story that connects children to Country and encourages respect for waterways.”

The book was supported by a MidCoast Arts Support Grant, and printed locally in Newcastle on FSC-certified paper.

“Where Ripples Rise” is the first book published under The Bower Farm Collective imprint, reflecting the Collective’s commitment to nature, community, creativity and connection to Country.

Its release marks a special time for Rachel, who welcomed twins into the family just two weeks ago.

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Gloucester.

landowner Allan Reynolds, and local businesses.

Popular with visitors and locals alike, the Lions Scenic Walk on Bucketts Road now features newly constructed steps, making it more accessible.

At the end of the walk, a seat has been installed, offering walkers a place to rest and enjoy views of

“The Lions Club are very proud of this project,” said Club President Jeanette Mumford.

Alec Bruce, who coordinated the project for the Gloucester Lions Club, noted that the Reynolds family had played a pivotal role in the process.

“They have offered valuable contributions that benefited the work being

carried out,” Alec said.

“The owner’s willingness to help out has been a key factor in overcoming challenges, which has enhanced the efficiency and success of the project.”

Allan Reynolds told News Of The Area, “It was a community effort, and my family and I are very pleased to be part of it.”

To access the Lions Scenic Walk, visitors can use Bucketts Road.

Fuel stockpile topped up as minister says supply secure

By Robyn WUTH, Tess IKONOMOU and Zac DE SILVA, AAP

AUSTRALIA has stockpiled billions of litres of fuel - more than a month's supply - as frustrated motorists grapple with rising

and an

The country is "as prepared as possible" with 1.6 billion litres of petrol or 37 days' supply, Energy Minister Chris Bowen told reporters on Saturday.

The stockpile includes 2.7 billion litres of diesel, or 30 days of supply, and 800 million litres or 29 days of jet fuel.

Global concerns over the US-Israeli-led war in Iran have fanned fears of fuel shortages, leading to regional supply issues and price hikes.

"We have received all our expected shipping of petrol and diesel that our refineries continue to work, and the supply of petrol has been secure and has been just as expected," Mr Bowen said.

"What we have seen is real and unacceptable shortages in rural and regional areas in particular, as we've been dealing with a massive explosion in demand - demand up 100 percent at every terminal across Australia.

"This has seen shortages for farmers, for people in regional areas in particular, which the government has been working very hard with the industry to get addressed as quickly as possible."

The government has moved to ease the pain for motorists, releasing up to 762 million litres of petrol and diesel from emergency reserves to meet regional demand.

NSW will convene an urgent roundtable to address concerns over the impact of the US-Israel-Iran conflict, as its premier urges restraint at the bowsers.

Representatives from transport and logistics, fuel, agriculture, local councils, mining, unions and consumer protection groups were set to meet with government officials on Monday.

"Global events are putting pressure on fuel markets around the world and we are making sure NSW is prepared as we can be and well co-ordinated if those pressures continue," Premier Chris Minns said.

"I appreciate this is a stressful time for everyone but it's important people don't buy more fuel at the bowser than they need."

Iran has closed one of the world's busiest oil corridors

- the Strait of Hormuz - in response to the US-led war launched against it, causing a global shortage that has led fuel prices to skyrocket.

Fuel should have already been reserved for the regions, according to Westlink Petroleum managing director Danny Kreutzer, whose Queenslandbased company services 500 businesses.

"We've got a lot of angry

customers that want their fuel," he told AAP.

"A lot of them have been pretty good to deal with and understand the situation we're in.

"Every other fuel distributor in the country, we're all the same. It's really impacted our business because we just can't get the volume we require on a normal day."

One Nation MP Barnaby

Joyce has raised the prospect of city rationing to help address the issue.

"It is a crisis," he told ABC Radio on Friday.

Mr Joyce said trucks had to be kept moving to ensure food remained on supermarket shelves and other vital services were maintained.

The consumer watchdog has told fuel retailers to respond to claims they

dramatically hiked petrol and diesel prices soon after war broke out.

Penalties for false or misleading conduct and cartel behaviour have been doubled to a maximum of $100 million per offence as the crisis deepens. Australia has also relaxed quality standards for the next 60 days to boost the domestic market.

Motoring group puts brakes on city fuel ration push

By Tess IKONOMOU, AAP

RATIONING fuel in

by US and Israeli forces.

The conflict in the Middle East has spiked oil prices, sending unleaded petrol prices in Australia above $2.20 a litre, and diesel to more than $2.60 a litre.

Fuel transport companies support a proposal by One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce to reserve fuel for farmers and regional areas as the Iran war drags on.

Mr Joyce argues this would ensure supermarket shelves remained stocked and other key industries could continue operating.

organisation did not support the proposal.

"It will have an economic and social connection impact and we believe it's unnecessary," he said.

"Fuel supplies have continued throughout this war and urge Australians not to panic buy and stockpile, particularly diesel."

Mr Joyce said Australia should be part of a global effort to end Iran's blockade, as US President Donald Trump calls on countries to step up.

"When Australians are stockpiling fuel in jerry cans in homes, that behaviour will inevitably lead to shortages," he said.

"If that behaviour stops, it will go a long way to stabilising the situation."

The federal government on Friday announced up to 762 million litres of petrol and diesel from the emergency reserves of companies would be released to address shortfalls.

"We've got big stockpiles of fuel, whether it's petrol or diesel or jet fuel, and we work around the clock to make sure that Australia doesn't run out, we're certainly not expecting that we will," he told Sky News on Sunday.

Labor has also relaxed its fuel quality requirements, meaning higher sulfur petrol usually reserved for export can be sold in Australia in a bid to tackle increased demand.

Australia's major cities to supply the regions would cause unnecessary economic and social issues, a peak motoring body says.

Iran has closed the strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil corridors, after the country was attacked

Fuel should have already been reserved for the regions, said Westlink Petroleum managing director Danny Kreutzer, whose Queenslandbased company transports fuel for 500 businesses.

But NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury said the

"If you are part of a beneficiary of it being resolved, you got to do something for it," he told ABC's Insiders.

Mr Khoury said there were reports in some locations of people buying four times the amount of fuel usually sold.

Last call for local ideas

CHARITIES, community groups and not-for-profit organisations delivering community-led projects across Essential Energy’s network area are encouraged to submit their applications for the 2026 Essential Grants program before the end of March.

The program is offering grants of up to $15,000 to help eligible organisations bring their initiatives to life and deliver real benefits for people, communities and the environment.

One organisation that received funding in the 2025 round is Repurposing for Resilience, a Eurobodalla-based local group that is giving discarded solar panels a second life through creative, community-led reuse.

Lisa Cornthwaite from Repurposing for Resilience says the grant enabled the organisation to activate its Plate Forward initiative.

The project combines sustainability

outcomes with strong community and wellbeing benefits by repurposing an original 1950s Carapark trailer into a mobile dishwashing station.

“With the grant we’ve created a service that offers reusable cutlery and crockery, which we take out to events to stamp out single use packaging,” Lisa said.

“It might seem like a small thing, but it has a giant impact not only for the environment but also for the wellbeing of our community.”

Essential Energy’s Head of Sustainability, Sophie Cruickshank, says the program is

Energy Minister Chris Bowen has repeatedly provided assurances Australia has enough fuel and said shortages were down to people stockpiling.

He has also rejected calls to bring in fuel rationing in metropolitan areas.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the nation had plenty of fuel.

designed to support regional, rural and remote organisations across Essential Energy’s footprint, like Repurposing for Resilience, who are already leading positive change in their communities.

“We know there are many community-led organisations across our footprint doing incredible work in sustainability and resilience,” Sophie said.

“These grants are about giving local groups the support they need to turn strong ideas into real, on-the-ground outcomes - whether that’s improving sustainability, supporting

Nationals Leader Matt Canavan said despite there being enough volume of fuel in Australia, it was a "small mercy" for farmers and businesses.

"When they go to the petrol station or they call their contractor and there's no fuel available, they've got a supply crisis," he told Sky News.

the energy transition, or strengthening community resilience.”

With a total funding pool of $150,000 for FY26, the program supports projects aligned to two key themes: energy transition, and sustainability and climate adaptation.

“These focus areas are about helping organisations use energy in smarter, cleaner ways and supporting initiatives that protect the environment and prepare for future challenges.

“We encourage eligible community groups to apply before applications close,” Sophie said. Applications close 31 March at 5pm AEDT. For more information and to apply, visit: essentialenergy.com.au/EssentialGrants

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SATURDAY

BETTER

SEVEN, 7pm

HOMES AND GARDENS

A Friday-night fixture for the past 20 years, there’s now a double dose of home inspiration as this lifestyle staple branches out to Saturday evenings as well. That means twice as many renter-friendly DIYs, tasty tricks to try in the kitchen, pet care solutions and landscaping ideas. Host Johanna Griggs says the new schedule means “more house calls than Dr Harry” as the team showcase extraordinary properties and gardens from around the country. In this instalment, Charlie Albone and Juliet Love (both pictured) enlist the help of Dr Harry Cooper for a pet project.

FRIDAY, March 20

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Professor T. (Final, Mav) The Professor investigates a woman’s death.

9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.

9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGds, R)

10.20 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mv, R)

12.00 Smother. (Mlv, R)

1.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

MONDAY 9-1-1

SEVEN, 8.40pm

From a billionaire caught in the mouth of a humpback whale to an outer-space emergency and a giant Jack-o’-Lantern, the ninth season of this first responder drama seems to have given up entirely on believability. Monday’s instalment, titled “War”, changes all that. Bringing the team back down to earth, the heavy-hitting hour deals with internal conflict at Station 118.

Following his dismissal of Hen (Aisha Hinds), Chimney (Kenneth Choi) comes under fire from Athena (Angela Bassett, pictured) and Buck (Oliver Stark), but Eddie (Ryan Guzman) supports his captain’s decision. Meanwhile, in dispatch, Maddie (Jennifer Love Hewitt) is unsettled by a new AI assistant programmed to use her voice.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG) 8.30 Macchu Picchu: City Of Stone. (R) 9.30 The Lost World Of The Hanging Gardens. (PG, R) 10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Sisi. (MA15+as)

12.05 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R) 2.00 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+ds, R)

3.45 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

TUESDAY

THE MATTER OF FACTS

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: The Dressmaker. (2015, Malsv, R) After a woman returns to her home town in the Australian outback, old rivalries are reignited. Kate Winslet, Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth. 10.30 MOVIE: About A Boy. (2002, Mal, R) An immature man befriends a young boy. Hugh Grant, Toni Collette. 12.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

On the 1949 release of George Orwell’s dystopian 1984, the notion of rewriting history and events to fit political narratives was a daunting prospect to most of the Western world. In 2026, an era rife with social media trolls, AI chatbots and international campaigns designed to undermine our faith in facts, Orwell’s world is no longer far from our reality. Award-winning journalist Hamish Macdonald (pictured) wades into the fray in this compelling three-part documentary, heading to the frontline of the global information wars to explore how disinformation travels through the digital ecosystem. Tuesday’s premiere examines the effects of modern technology on our brains and belief systems.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 3. Melbourne Storm v Brisbane Broncos.

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

10.45 MOVIE: American Assassin. (2017, MA15+lv, R) Dylan O’Brien.

12.55 Fishing Australia. (R)

1.25 Garden Gurus Moments. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6.00

SATURDAY, March 21

deal with a cowboy. 8.40 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) Catherine finds herself entangled in a case when an old friend becomes a murder suspect.

Frauds. (Md, R) Follows a woman fresh out of prison.

10.30 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean.

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

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

10.20 Highclere: The Real Downton Abbey. (R)

11.15 Snowpiercer. (MA15+av, R)

1.05 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+ds, R)

2.55 Nazi Death Marches. (PGav, R)

3.55 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

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

Seven News.

6.00

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.00 MOVIE: Men In Black 3. (2012, Mv, R) A secret agent, who specialises in policing aliens living on Earth, must travel back in time to save the planet. Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin. 10.10 MOVIE: Knock At The Cabin. (2023, Malv) A family is taken hostage. Dave Bautista, Jonathan Groff. 12.10 Devils. (MA15+av, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PGan, 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: Dunkirk. (2017, Malv, R) A mission is launched to rescue stranded soldiers. Fionn Whitehead, Mark Rylance. 10.30 MOVIE: The Man With The Iron Heart. (2017, MA15+asv, R) 12.45 Epic Builds. (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: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Six contestants answer multiple-choice questions that escalate in cash-prize value. 7.00 Soccer. AFC 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Final. From Accor Stadium, Sydney. 11.00 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 12.00 Matlock.

6.00

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6am A United

Kingdom. Continued. (2016, PG) 7.00 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 9.10 Americanish. (2021, PG) 10.55 Blue Jean. (2022, M) 12.45pm Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 2.55 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 4.55 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.

SUNDAY, March 22

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano.

8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml) William struggles with his confinement. 8.50 Frauds. (Mls) Bert reveals her master plan.

9.40 Blue Murder Motel. (M, R)

10.25 Top End Bub. (M, R)

10.50 MOVIE: Sweet Country. (2017, MA15+v, R)

12.40 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. 5.55pm 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 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.55 Chopped Junior. 9.40 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 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 Badgers: Their Secret World. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Race For Ancient Egypt In Colour.

9.25 Leonardo Da Vinci: The Disciple Of Experience Pt 2. (PG, R)

10.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PG, R)

11.20 History Of The Sitcom. (MA15+l, R)

2.30 The Sculpture. (PGav, R)

3.55 Food, Sail, Love. (PG, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal) 8.10 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec. 9.30 The Hunters: Beaumont Children Mystery. (Mav, R) 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Madlv, R)

12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, 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.

Married At First Sight. (PGls)

My Wife, My Killer And The Secret Footage. (MA15+assv)

The First 48. (Ma, R)

A Killer Makes A Call: Lewis. (MA15+av, R)

David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PGav, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

MONDAY, March 23

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG) 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. (PGal) 11.30 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)

2.40 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R)

3.45 Food, Sail, Love. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 9-1-1. (Mav) Chimney grapples with his decision. 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.

10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Autopsy USA. (Mav, R) 12.40 Conviction. (MA15+av, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Boychoir. (2014, PG) 8.10 A King In New York. (1957, PG) 10.05 Cactus Flower. (1969, M) 11.55 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 2.30pm Selkie. (2000, PG) 4.05 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 5.55 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 7.30 Paris, Texas. (1984, M) 10.05 Birth. (2004, MA15+) 11.55 Yolngu Boy. (2001, M) 1.30am A Taste Of Hunger. (2021, M, Danish) 3.25 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, March 24

(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. (Return) 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 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 Rock Legends. (PG)

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Exit. (MA15+adv, R) 11.55 Wolf. (Mals, R)

2.10 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 3.15 Food, Sail, Love. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

4.55 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. (PGav) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by  Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 Doc. (Ma) The hospital brings in the FBI. 9.40 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma) A trapped crash victim needs rescuing. 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 St. Denis Medical. (PGals) 12.10 Dirty John. (MA15+v) 1.10

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Selkie. (2000, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.25 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 10.00 Paris, Texas. (1984, M) 12.35pm Let Me Go. (2023, M, French) 2.20 Boychoir. (2014, PG) 4.15 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 5.55 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 7.30 Empty Nets. (2023, M, Persian) 9.30 The Goldfinch. (2019, M) 12.15am The Son. (2022, M) 2.25 Birth. (2004, MA15+) 4.10 A Taste Of Hunger. (2021, M, Danish)

DUNGOG’S BEST FOOD

Chargrilled steaks Fresh Fish Pub classics Chef’s specials

WEEKDAY LUNCHES

$20 meals + $5 schooner

ENTERTAINMENT

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WHAT’S ON

Wednesday - Trivia from 6.30pm Thursday - Meat Raffle & Joker Poker from 5.30pm Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also available BEHIND THE BAR

8 tap beers • Great wines • Cocktails

WEDNESDAY, March 25

THURSDAY, March 26 6.00

9.20 Prisoner 951. (M) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Face To Face. (Mal) 11.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+sv) 2.35 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R)

3.40 Food, Sail, Love. (R)

4.15 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by  Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Mal)

12.00 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)

1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

A Current Affair.

Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 To Be Advised. 10.00 9News Late.

Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

6am The Movie Show. 7.05 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 8.45 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 10.20 The Goldfinch. (2019, M) 1pm Empty Nets.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes.

8.30 Our Medicine. (PGa, R)

9.40 A Spy Among Friends. (Final, MA15+)

10.45 SBS World News Late.

11.15 In Memoriam. (Madls)

12.10 Blackwater. (MA15+as, R)

2.25 Silent Road. (Mav, R)

4.15 Food, Sail, Love. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

(2017, M) 11.40 The Lawnmower Man. (1992, M) 2.15am Late Programs. 6am The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 7.05 Discovering Film. 8.00 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 10.00 The Killing Of A Sacred Deer. (2017, M) 12.10pm The Lawnmower Man. (1992, M) 2.40 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 4.10 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 5.45 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 7.30 Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, M) 9.45 The Peacemaker. (1997, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa, R) Documents the work of the highway patrol.

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal) Flat-tyres ruin some Christmas cheer.

8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Baby. (2016, Mls, R) Bridget Jones becomes pregnant. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth. 11.10 To Be Advised.

12.20 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

1.20 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.

United Gangs Of America. 10.20 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.10 Brassic. 12.55am The Swiping Game. 1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta a Catalunya. Stage 4. 3.20 Late Programs.

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Funeral Notice

FITZGERALD, Patricia Ethel

Known as Pat or Nan

Passed away peacefully on Monday 9th March, 2026

Aged 95 years

Beloved wife of Clarrie(dec). Mother and mother in-law to Christine, Ray & Kyoko(dec) and Michelle. Proud and loving grandmother of Kylee, Riko, Josie & Meg and the extended family of grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Pat’s Funeral Service to be held at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Gloucester on Thursday 26th March 2026 commencing at 11am prior to private cremation.

Funeral Notice

WAUGH

Robyn Tess

Late of Gloucester

Passed away peacefully on 6th March, 2026

Aged 81 years

Beloved wife of Joe. Loving mother and mother in-law to Anthony & Alice, Jason & Tanya. Proud and loving grandmother of Charlise, Chanelle, Cheyenne, Chloe & Jordan. Survived by sisters Denise & Claudia.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Robyn’s Funeral Service to be held at the Gloucester Bowling Club on Friday 27th March, 2026 commencing at 11am prior to private cremation.

ads@newsofthearea.com.au newsofthearea.com.au Wanted to Buy War Medals Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215

Antique china & figurines, Sterling silver items, old gold jewellery, wind-up watches & pocket watches, silver proof coin sets. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747

DINING chairs, 6 black leather & chrome, msg for photo. 0427 818 294

LOUNGE chairs x 4 pieces. good cond Ph 0493 777 707

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OUTDOOR table glass top, 8 chairs 150 x 150, VGC. 0412 949 695.

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double bed base with 4 drawers underneath. GC. Pick up Medowie. Ph 0466 013 853 F260226

WINDSURFING board F2 AXXIS plus boom & bag. 85 liters, No dings 0419 932 992 F091025

Plants for sale

BEGONIA plant $15 Ph 0477 827 291

CLIVIA Plants $15 Ph 0477 827 291

CHRISTMAS tree medium sized, $30 Ph 0477 827 291

COCA-COLA Memorabilia Collection $95. 0409 863 898

COKE bottles & cans x 14, some bottles full 2000 Olympic can, 1989 Ghost Busters can, 1987 America Cup bottle & more. $40. 0447 076 485

COFFEE table, lovely walnut with 3 drawers $100 ono 0448 521 466

CLOTHES, 000 - size 8, boys / girls clothing $20 per box. Some new, great cond. Pick up from Clarence Town. 0432 050 619

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COLLECTERS editions empty Chivas Salute Whisky porcelain flagons with velvet covers and boxes. Make an offer. 4981 2713 F190625

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COLLECTION of frogs approx. 60 pieces, all sizes. $50. 0457193 071

CORNINGWARE casserole dish $50 Ph 0477 827 291

VICTOR special and utility, 2 each also Sheerline and many other mower parts. $150 6558 9242

electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643

DOUBLE Pine Bed w/good mattress. $100 4982 0063 Motors ads@newsofthearea. com.au

CLASSIFIEDS 02 4981 8882

MAKYBE Diva framed print. Very good cond $50. Ph 0409 022 542

MARTAWILEY print $50 0477 827 291

PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1800 ono 0498 176 876

SPALDING tennis racquet with cover. $20 0457 193 071

STAND Up Paddle board, Kings inflatable Located in HN. $99.00 Call 0493 078 190

SWIMMING pool magnesium salt 25kg bag $90. Ph 0477 587 881

JACKAROO, 1999 Diesel 3lt, reg 11/26 GC, new major parts fitted inc tyres, still blows smoke when running $1,000+. DK28EY. Ph 0456 448 236 or 55 Skye Rd Barrington.

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda, MY daughter's class is holding a fundraiser to raise funds to paint the play equipment.

I've let the relatives know and now they are getting competitive with their offers.

Kylie G.

Dear Kylie,

Fundraisers used to be done in a clandestine way, much like nanna slipping little Jimmy a cool fifty bucks in an envelope.

No one else got involved, and the exchange was beneficial without being showy.

Money was still raised, but there

News Of The Area OPINION

was no leader chart of donations. No award for most funds raised. And no public humiliation.

Now things have moved online.

School fundraisers document funds raised in real time, with benevolent relatives able to leave a note for the school and broader community to see.

A fundraiser has, therefore, turned into a version of a sporting carnival (or perhaps The Hunger Games) with competitive relatives raising the stakes in $20 increments.

Nothing quite spurs on a family than to see that little Georgie is sitting level with the lowest donors, while silver spooner Ollie P is at the top of the charts with online messages like: 'Go, Ollie, we love a good colour run' and "Nanny and Pa love you, Ollie' and 'Colour Me Happy' (from an uncle who clearly hasn't watched Pretty Woman).

Then, before long, Georgie's aunt (a stockbroker by day) ups the ante with a cool $100. It's on! Ollie's Dad, who notices his son is down by $10 makes a further $11 donation

in a bid reminiscent of the ratingswinning bidding wars on The Block.

And so, while bank accounts are being depleted faster than oil reserves, the school's P&C sits back and watches the proceedings with glee.

What started as an exercise in raising funds to repaint play equipment has morphed into a whole new range of possibilities.

Gerald, the P&C president calls in an architect to draw up a new concept plan.

A full-scale pirate ship is in the works along with climbing towers, an Olympic pool, and a zipline from the school canteen to the lower carpark.

Mary the treasurer fires up her Excel spreadsheet. Meanwhile, the kids are none the wiser.

They just want to run around being doused by coloured powder.

Don't worry about competitiveness, Kylie.

Everyone's a winner in this scenario.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Dorin's Drawings

By

Verse of the week

Ask the real estate expert...

Things

When it comes to house sales, there’s no reason to go it alone. Trying to sell your home by yourself can lead to a range of problems, from settling for a bad deal to having trouble attracting buyers. These problems are much less likely to occur if you have a professional Real Estate agent on your side. An expert agent can help you through every stage of the process by doing the following things.

Determining a Realistic Asking Price

If you want to sell your home quickly, a realistic asking price is essential. A proper asking price can help discourage long negotiating talks. Not sure how to determine your house’s value? Your agent will know to contact a professional for a house appraisal. They can then use this information, along with research about homes in the area, to decide on the perfect asking price.

Identifying The Top Selling Points

A Real Estate agent knows what features are worth highlighting to buyers. With their experience, they can quickly determine what makes your property unique and appealing to potential buyers.

Running an Advertising Campaign

Your agent can launch an advertising campaign which can attract more buyers to your property. They may create promotional materials regarding your home, arrange for professional photos to be taken, write the home description themselves, and much more.

Arranging Open House Events and Showings

The benefit of hiring a Real Estate agent is that they have lots of time to dedicate to scheduling and supervising both property showings and open houses. This will result in more people seeing your home and getting a closer look at it.

Selling your property doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Real estate agents have the skills, experience, and market knowledge necessary and are here to help you through every stage of the selling process.

Denise

The Vision Splendid

DEAR News Of The Area,

It seems the newspaper is flogging the dead horse to resurrect another shot at addressing the unacceptable risk of two infamous intersections, Bucketts Way and Medowie Road, as well as roasting Labor politicians.

“Funding promises for highway intersections” (NOTA 17 April 2025) informs me of one certainty, the paper knows nothing of the design history of dual carriageways, particularly locally.

As I suggested in an unpublished letter in 2025, a long, long, long time ago in an office far, far away, a plan was conceived.

Turning a two lane, two way road into separated dual carriageways from the Victorian to Queensland borders with specific on/off ramps that excluded vehicles from making a left or right turn across a carriageway to the other.

Of necessity, to meet this requirement, bypassing villages and towns occurred.

As examples take Karuah and Bulahelah bypasses as to how it should be done, which is easy using Google Earth.

As examples of how it should not be done, take the politically-motivated suggestions for the Bucketts Way, the Medowie Road and Italia Road as cited in the article.

You could add the Myall Way too, whilst you have Google Earth open.

You could ask the likes of Gordon Chirgwin, formally of the Roads and Traffic Authority of NSW.

I respect his opinion because he is correct.

Politicians and reporters firing off the odd angry shot should know better when it comes to funding a design only.

It happens each and every time leading up to an election - local, state and federal.

This is why ‘design’ considerations should be left to the experts, not the wannabes.

A design is the cheapest ‘campaign promise’ any politician can make when only dubious upgrades to intersections are on offer, for all the good they will not do.

Is the “Vision Splendid" long gone?

You would say no looking at the changes to the M1 around Raymond Terrace.

The time to achieve it?

Well, regardless of affiliation (or not), all roads lead to Canberra.

Perhaps now might be a good time to ask the current incumbent: “What went wrong at Nabiac way back when?”

As a not so retired Scientific Officer, Geotechnical and Scientific Services Section, Engineering Technology Branch DMR/RTA/RMS these things are like infidelity, some always knows.

Yours, Mervyn MCCONNOCHIE, Karuah.

concert

DEAR News Of The Area,

ON the advice of a friend, my father and I travelled from Sydney to Gloucester for the concert of Christine Collister and Michael Fix.

Oh my! What a concert!

Thank you Gloucester Artists for bringing these two world renown artists to your beautiful town. How amazing to be able to walk from our motel to the Senior Citizens Centre (no traffic, no parking problems!).

Then to enjoy two hours of stunning vocals and sizzling guitar with these consummate professionals.

My soul felt replenished.

The next day we visited Gloucester Creatives, what a treat!

The cafes, shops and live music and amazing backdrop of the Buccan Buccans made for a really memorable visit.

Celebrating the sporting year that was

GLOUCESTER’S annual Sports Awards presentation will be held on Saturday, 9 May at the Gloucester Bowling and Recreation Club, highlighting the achievements of local sporting groups for the 2025 year.

Nominations are being accepted for all categories including Local Legend up until the closing date of Friday, 27 March.

Each nomination must include a digital or hard copy photo of the nominee.

“Following the success of last year’s presentation only (no dinner), the same format will apply this year with the Club’s restaurant available for those who wish to enjoy a meal either before or after the presentation,” said Gloucester Sports Committee

secretary/treasurer Lorraine Forbes.

“Once again there will be no cost to those who wish to attend the presentation, but a ticket will still be required so that sufficient seating can be provided.”

Tickets are available at Gloucester Furniture Zone and Flooring until Friday, 24 April.

Due to limited space for seating in the auditorium, just 200 tickets are available.

Each year, the Sports Committee invites a sporting identity to address attendees.

“This year local athlete Karen White has agreed to give an insight into her hockey career which spans 50 years,” said Lorraine.

“In 2025, Karen was given the opportunity to play in the

Over 55 Australian Spirits team at the European Masters Championships held in Nottingham, England.

“The team came home with a gold medal!

“This year Karen will once again be part of the 60s team to play at the Masters World Cup in Brasschaat, Belgium during July and August.

“Karen’s daughter, Mikaela will travel with Karen as the team manager.

“While representing her country at the highest level at age 60 is an incredible feat, Karen wants people to stop viewing age as a barrier.

“We look forward to learning more about Karen’s career and her current achievements.”

Member clubs have until Friday 27 March to submit their nominations, remembering that club administrators,

illustrious hockey career.

coaches and match officials can also be recognised for their contributions during 2025.

“Long serving ‘senior’ (75-plus) members who do so much for their clubs also deserve recognition!” Lorraine said.

Hockey season starting to ramp up

from 3:305pm at Cook Park.

Gloucester hockey coach

Ollie Rinkin has been running

this successful grassroots initiative for many years, playing a key role in the development of countless talented players.

Joanne Charlier from Gloucester Panthers Hockey

said the club is building on a successful 2025.

“Gloucester had a great season of hockey in 2025 with both our teams in the Manning Valley Hockey Association winning the Division 3

Juniors and Men’s C Grade competitions.

“Gloucester has formed a partnership with Taree West Raiders Hockey Club which has been going strong, allowing our players to progress

through the higher divisions and grades.”

Aside from the club’s progress, individual players also shone last season.

“We would also like to recognise some outstanding achievements by our Gloucester players,” Joanne said.

“In particular Jarrah Baker, who was awarded Division 2 Best and Fairest and also Rookie Umpire of the Year.

“Also Sebastian House, who was awarded Goal Keeper of the Year by the Manning Valley Hockey Association.

“Congratulations to these players for their achievements.”

The local public school also got in on the hockey action.

“Another fantastic hockey achievement was made by the boys at Gloucester Public School winning the NSW PSSA Boys Knock Out State Championships,” Joanne said.

“Mr Hayden White, who is one of the teachers at Gloucester Public School and who coached this winning side, is also a hockey player and this year he is coaching the Division 2 Taree West Juniors while also playing with the Men’s B grade team.”

q Gloucester teams enjoyed success in 2025.

Photos: supplied.

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

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SPORT RESULTS

Gloucester Lady Bowlers

By Jennifer BURLEY

A MILD summer morning

greeted the Ladies drawn to play the first match in the Bonnie Hazelwood Triples, Jill Everett, Jenny Stevens and Judy Sheely 18 in a very close game defeated Lou Clements,Bev Murray and Bev Germon 17, therefore Wednesday 18th in the semi final, Judy's team will play Joan Ridgeway,Ruth Redman and Kerrie Green and Jenny Burley,Jill Carson and Suzanne Cross will play Paula Standen,Karen Heiningher and Di Pritchard. As numbers for Social Play was somewhat depleted there was only one match of 4s with a swinger, Ruth Redman,Joan Ridgeway, Suzanne Cross and

Gloucester Parkrun

By Carolyn DAVIES

14 MARCH

There was a collection of all shades of green shirts, shorts and socks for the Gloucester parkrun last Saturday - an early St Patrick's Day perhaps?

No - the choice of colour was to celebrate Gloucester's 250th parkrun (with green being the parkrun's 250 milestone colour).

People had obviously trawled through their cupboards to find something green, with some shirts telling a story about their owner's past running events or long forgotten jobs.

The 62 finishers included visitors from Maitland and Sydney, joining a throng of locals. Some had been at the very first Gloucester parkrun including Di Mansfield, and Elaine, Bill and Chris Murray - while Steve Robinson was marking his 150th run at Gloucester.

The cooler conditions saw jumpers being worn for the first time in a while (although quickly discarded as people warmed up) and a number of personal best times being set. It was on for the young and those with more years/mileage in their legs - with personal best times by Zara Turner, Eli Soupidis, Josh Westley (must have been his green socks), Dallas Hennessey, Phoebe Thomas, Donna Sweeney, Katrina Morris

and Betty Bherens.

Some used incentives for a bit of funwhether it was the toys promised to one youngster if she achieved a PB (which she did) or the personal goal of passing the person just ahead of you as the finish flags came into sight.

The first male finisher was visitor Guy Higgins (who is close to reaching his own 250th milestone), with Darcy Thomas almost catching him on the home stretch. The first two female finishers were Jamie Sutton and Charlotte Marsden - running in sync around the course.

As usual, the event was delivered by a band of volunteers (also dressed in green), with Trudie Murray as the experienced timekeeper and husband Chris as scanner. Rod Eckels was handing out finish tokens after helping to set up the event earlier. Jenny Lindsay was again in the role of tailwalker, guiding the group from behind and getting some extra strength exercises in by carrying home the large cones used for marking the course. Visitor Michelle Higgins took some great photos to capture the occasion, as she made her way around the course.

Gloucester parkrun is at 8am every Saturday - so come along and join in the fun of a 5 kilometre walk or run around Gloucester District Park (it's a free event).

Joy Hurworth 19 defeated Ruth(swinger)Jill Carson,Val Pritchard and Jenny Burley 14, and the Trophy of the day being a draw of the cards went to the team of Judy Sheely. Results for the Semi Final of the Mixed 4s Championship

played Sunday 8th,were Joan Ridgeway,Kevin Everett with Judy and Mike Sheely 24 defeated Jill Everett(sub) Paula Standen,Alec Laurie and Jeff Kellie 5 and Jill Carson,Joy and Steven Hurworth with Tony Tersteeg 30 accounted for Jenny Burley,Alan Rose,Bev Germon and Neville Atkins 10,therefore Sunday 15th the final of this championship will be played, results next Wednesday 25th.

By Peter WILDBLOOD

THE Gloucester Veteran Golfers turned out in numbers on Tuesday 10 March on a fine day to see Peter McIntyre take the top prize in a close win.

The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Cathy and Denver Webb. The winner by one Stableford point was Peter

McIntyre, 37. Runner up on a count back was Trevor Sharp 37 and he was followed by ball winners Steve Hurworth 36, Will Bosma, Hugh Torode 34, Mark Stone, Carolyn Davies 33 and Ken Howlett 32.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Steve Hurworth who back up for another such trophy at the 6th and 15th holes, an honour he shared with Carolyn Davies. Last Tuesday 17 March the Gloucester Veteran Golfers were due to play a Four Ball Aggregate event sponsored by Karen Howarth. Next Tuesday, 24 March, there is scheduled an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Amanda Robertson.

McIntyre in Vets Golf win Yates best in Saturday Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

AT THE Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday 14 March Ryan Yates turned in the top score of the day under fair conditions at the course.

The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by McGrath Real Estate. In A grade Stacey Groves needed a count back to record a win in the grade with 37 points. Ryan Yates was the clear winner in B grade and Hayden Cornall’s 37 was good for a clear win in C grade.

Balls were won by Ryan Yates 39, Stacey Groves, Roy Crichton, Hayden Cornall, Chris Murray and Jeff Reynolds all with scores of 37 points and the last two balls went to Steve MacDonald and Lianne Markey, 35.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Jamie Andrews and Ryan Yates representing the top two

grades. It was a full house at the shorter 6th and 15th holes with wins to Stacey Groves in A grade, Jeff Reynolds in B grade and Bill Murray in C grade.

The top long drives at the 8th and 17th holes went to Stacey Groves, Ryan Yates and Jonny Tighe in the three men’s grades with Lianne Markey best of the women golfers.

The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 13 March was Stacey Groves with a handy score of 16 points. Balls were won by Dave Mann and Ken Kelly 15, and Dave Saunders 14.

This coming Saturday, 21 March, the Gloucester golfers will be playing their Derros Day, a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford event with an Individual Stableford in conjunction. The following Saturday the Club will celebrate the memory of Tom Blundell with a Four person Ambrose.

Easy living meets country sophistication

Lot 107 Tipperary Road, Tipperary

Price: offers over $1,200,000 Bed 2, Bath 2, Car 3

LOCATED in Tipperary, between Nabiac and Gloucester, this striking off-grid barndominium is a bold blend of modern rural design, sustainability and jawdropping valley views.

Inside, easy living meets country sophistication.

The lower level offers open plan living spaces, a generous bedroom, a character-filled bathroom with egg-shaped bath plus a fresh all-white laundry.

Upstairs, the loft-style master retreat includes ensuite, walk-in robe and a large picture window with built-in seat, framing the rolling rural landscape.

Completely off-grid and impressively equipped, the home features rainwater storage and an environmentally friendly wormfarm septic system.

The home’s 22 solar panels

produce approximately 36.6kW.

Heating is provided by a slowcombustion wood fire cleverly designed to heat the entire home.

The approximately 50 acre property comfortably runs around 14 steers, supported by quality steel stockyards including crush and race.

There is a stock dam plus permanent creek.

There is a chicken coop with a free range area supplying fresh eggs daily. Contact info@randrproperty. com.au.

& respite through the NDIS

Transport to medical appointments

Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA), community pantry & hardship assistance

Information, advice or referral to help solve homelessness, domestic/family violence & more

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT

Wednesday, 18 March 2026

Women’s Four Ball

By Carolyn DAVIES

THE Gloucester Golf Ladies played a Fourball Aggregate Stableford event last Wednesday 11 March.

The temperature was in the thirties, with a slight breeze to cool the golfers down.

The winners were Liane Markey and Julie Paterson with an aggregate score of 70 points, well ahead of the rest of the field. They both won a lovely plant from the sponsor of the day, Cheryl Goodrich. Balls went to Elaine Murray and Cheryl Goodrich on 60 points, and to Margaret Dunn and Julie Paterson, 59.

Carolyn Davies won the Nearest-to the-Pin prize on the 4th and 13th holes, while Pat Burrows took the prize for Division 2 on the 6th and 15th holes.

The Gloucester Golf Ladies pennant team is off to a perfect start to the season, with another close win on Monday 9 March. This time the 3-2 win was played against Port Macquarie Diamonds at Tallwoods, with Anne Wand, Debbie Sate and Cheryl Goodrich winning their matches.

The Gloucester Golf Ladies will play an Individual Stableford event on Wednesday 18 March with the field expected to be on the light side with some players supporting the Bulahdelah Ladies Open Day that day. Next Wednesday 25 March there will be the first round of the WGNSW Medal, an Individual Stroke event.

By Appointment only

$790,000 - $830,000 Land: 856 sqm (approx.)

Denise Haynes 0414 725 482

Set in a highly sought-after location with a picturesque outlook to the Bucketts Mountain range, this beautifully presented 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick and tile home delivers space, comfort and easy living for families, retirees or savvy investors. Designed for relaxed living and effortless entertaining, the home features open-plan living with multiple living and dining zones. There is plenty of space for the whole family.

At the heart of the home is a large, well-appointed kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar and walk-in pantry, offering both functionality and style. It flows seamlessly into a covered outdoor alfresco area via glass sliding doors - perfect for year-round entertaining. The bedrooms are generous and include built-in robes and ceiling fans. The generous master suite enjoys privacy with its walk-in robe and ensuite. The family bathroom is 3 way and includes a bathtub, shower, separate wc and handbasin.

Comfort is assured in every season with a wood-burning fireplace, reverse-cycle air conditioning, ceiling fans, awnings and blinds throughout. A double garage with remote-control door provides secure parking, while the fully fenced backyard and additional shedding add practicality and appeal.

The land is generous in size, approximately 856sqm. Immaculately maintained and truly “neat as a pin,” this quality home is ready to move straight in and enjoy, all while soaking up the stunning Bucketts backdrop.