Gloucester District News Of The Area 20 MAY 2026

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News

Jim Grech named Sports Star of the Year

BOWLING sensation Jim Grech has been named Gloucester’s Sports Star of the Year for 2025.

He was among the many athletes recognised for their sporting achievements at the Gloucester Sports Committee's Sports Awards presentation held on Saturday, 9 May at the Gloucester Bowling and Recreation Club.

“The night was a great success with 150 adults and juniors filling the auditorium,” said the committee’s Lorraine Forbes.

Mr Grech was acknowledged for his outstanding achievements in Blind Bowls.

In 2025, his results included a gold medal in Category B1 Singles and a bronze medal in Pairs at the National Blind Bowls Championships held in Perth.

He also took home a silver medal in Singles and

PROTECTING HOMES

By John WATTS

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

Farmers urged to act early on feral pig control

WITH dry seasonal conditions being experienced in many parts of the region, Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) is urging producers to act early on feral pig control.

As feed and water become limited, feral pigs are concentrating around remaining resources, increasing the risk of damage to crops, pastures and infrastructure, and putting additional pressure on livestock production systems.

Hunter LLS

biosecurity staff say these seasonal conditions create a critical window for control programs, where well-planned action can deliver stronger results.

Luke Booth, Team Leader for Invasive Pests for Hunter LLS said, “We are working with landholders to deliver large-scale control across priority areas.

“This includes the distribution of free grain to support baiting and trapping programs, supply of traps, the

deployment of dedicated feral pig control contractors, coordinated ground baiting programs and targeted aerial shooting operations.”

To stay ahead of population growth, landholders are encouraged to take a strategic approach that combines multiple control methods and aligns with seasonal conditions and farm operations.

Effective programs typically include:

• using free feeding

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to establish consistent feeding patterns prior to control activities

• selecting appropriate trap types and locations based on feral pig behaviour and movement

• combining control methods such as trapping, baiting and shooting to increase effectiveness

• following up initial control within three months to maintain pressure on populations

• coordinating control programs with neighbours to maximise impact across the landscape.

Feral pigs are highly adaptable and reproduce rapidly, making ongoing control essential.

A single sow can produce up to two litters per year, with as many as 10–12 piglets per litter, allowing populations to recover quickly if control efforts are not sustained.

Sows can breed as early as six months in favourable conditions.

“Continued control is critical to further

suppress populations, particularly as pigs become more exposed and vulnerable due to reduced food availability and limited ground cover,” Luke said.

Conducting control programs ahead of key production periods, such as crop establishment, can help reduce production losses and protect valuable inputs.

Feral pig control also helps protect biodiversity and reduce biosecurity risks, with feral pigs capable of damaging native habitats and spreading weeds, parasites and diseases.

Local Land Services is supporting landholders through the NSW Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025–26, which provides access to practical tools and resources to improve control outcomes.

Landholders are encouraged to seek advice to ensure control programs are well planned and compliant with requirements.

For more information or tailored advice, contact your local biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299 or visit the Local Land Services website.

Jim Grech named Sports Star of the Year

FROM Page 1

a bronze in Pairs at the NSW Blind Bowls Championships held in Gloucester.

Mr Grech participated at club level in Men’s Championships and Social Bowls regularly in 2025 with the dedicated support of Rob Heininger, who acts as his director/ guide for all events.

Following the awards presentation, Mr Grech travelled to compete in the 2026 Blind Bowls National Championships at Tweed Heads (13-18 May).

Local sporting identity Karen White was on hand to provide the audience with an insight into her 50-year association with hockey and the opportunities the sport has provided her.

“She also had some inspiring words and encouragement for our young athletes,” Lorraine said.

Brian Beesley was the MC for the event and kept the audience entertained throughout the evening.

“He was ably assisted by our young local sporting talent, Miss Courtney Webeck, who entertained the younger audience members throughout the evening with some novel activities,” Lorraine said.

Two Local Legends were acknowledged for their involvement in Gloucester sport over many years: Mrs Betty Pearson for her 60-year contribution to netball and Mr Colin Weismantel (posthumous) for his long-term involvement in croquet.

Betty was on hand to receive her award from Sports Committee President John Hughes while Colin’s son, Tony, accepted the award on behalf of his father.

Encouragement Award medals were presented in acknowledgement of sportsmanship and effort throughout 2025.

Also presented on the night were certificates in recognition of the continued involvement of Gloucester sportspersons aged 75-plus.

Acknowledged with certificates this year were Val Pritchard, Gordon Pritchard, Paul Sheridan and Peter Sansom, who are all involved in bowls.

Other winners on the night were:

Junior – Charlie Coombe (Athletics) Veteran – Neville Atkins (Bowls) Junior Team – Gloucester Public School PSSA Hockey Team

Senior Team – Gloucester Bowling Club’s Grade 7 Pennant Team

Coach – Hayden White (Gloucester Public School Hockey Team)

Match Official – Chris Rose (Soccer) Club Administrator – Margo Cameron (Netball)

Event of the Year – NSW/ACT State Blind Bowls Championships

Para Athlete – Jim Grech (Bowls)

“A special thanks to the sporting clubs who acknowledged the achievements of their members in 2025 with an outstanding number of nominations once again,” Lorraine said.

“Thank you also to Mrs Claire Pontin (Mayor, MidCoast Council) and Ms Alison Penfold (Federal Member for Lyne) who were able to attend to assist with the presentation of some of the awards.”

Lyne MP’s response to Federal Budget

By Sue STEPHENSON

NATIONALS Member for Lyne Alison Penfold has called the Labor Government’s Federal Budget a “bloodbath for regional Australia”.

In her response to Labor’s Federal Budget, delivered by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 12 May, Ms Penfold said regional and rural communities like those in Lyne had been left behind.

“Budgets can make or break the ability of our region to thrive, and this Budget lets us down big time,” Ms Penfold said.

Her key concerns are related to the funding of roads, health, water and telecommunications.

“In terms of local services and infrastructure, there is no funding for the roads and grade-separated interchanges on the Pacific Highway, which our communities need.

“They have stripped $21.4 million from regional telecommunications funding making the challenge of addressing mobile and internet blackspots even harder.

“$103 million has been cut from the National Water Grid – the pool of funds that had the potential of providing funds to MidCoast Council for the Kiwarrak Off-River Water

Storage Project to secure the Manning’s long term water supply.

“In a funding commitment of $1.8 billion for Urgent Care Clinics, there is no funding for one in Taree despite the clear case that has been presented to them over the past 12 months.

“There is a pittance for aged care which won’t even scratch the sides of the Support at Home Waitlist, or address provider and workforce shortages in the regions.”

However, Ms Penfold acknowledged several measures in line with her pre-budget submission.

These include $2 billion for housing infrastructure such as power, water and sewerage, an additional round of the Stronger Communities Program, further funding for the Growing Regions Program and an extension of the Local Sporting Champions programs.

“A few small positives do not excuse a Budget that has fundamentally forgotten communities from the Hunter to the Hastings,” she said.

Key measures In a joint statement, the Treasurer, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior ministers, described

the Budget as being about "resilience and reform.”

“It’s all about getting Australians through the global oil shock and building an economy that works for more people.

“We’re delivering more cost-of-living help and building a more productive economy, a better tax system, a fairer housing market and a stronger and more sustainable budget,” the statement read.

The Budget focuses on cost-of-living relief, housing tax reform, and energy security.

A $31.5 billion deficit is forecast with $45 billion in improved revenue.

Key measures include:

- Income Tax Cuts: From July 1, 2026, the 16% tax rate for incomes $18,201–$45,000 drops to 15%.

- Worker Offset: A new $250 permanent Working Australians Tax Offset and a $1,000 instant tax deduction for work-related expenses.

- Medicare: Increased Medicare levy low-income thresholds.

- Negative Gearing: Limited to new builds, with existing investments grandfathered.

- Capital Gains Tax (CGT): The 50% CGT discount is scrapped and replaced by an

indexation system to target real gains.

- Securing Australia’s near-term fuel and fertiliser security through Export Finance Australia’s $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility.

- Strengthening longer term fuel security with a $3.2 billion Australian Fuel Security Reserve.

- Boosting energy sovereignty by making more clean fuels in Australia, promoting electrification, and implementing a 20 percent gas reservation.

- Approvals: $500 million-plus to expedite environmental and project approvals using AI.

Confidence in councils

Australia’s peak local government body, the Australian Local Government Association, says the Federal Budget is a vote of confidence in the country’s 538 councils to deliver on national housing infrastructure priorities.

But it argues that more needs to be done to address the growing financial pressures threatening local government services across the country.

ALGA President Mayor Matt Burnett said councils were on the frontline of delivering national

productivity, housing growth, climate resilience and essential local services, but needed to be backed to deliver.

“We welcome the Federal Government’s trust in local government to support new housing and growing communities, through its announcement of $2 billion over four years to help deliver enabling infrastructure,”

Mayor Burnett said.

“However, councils have not been given the

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same support to meet local community needs through secure untied funding and, in fact, support through Financial Assistance Grants has gone backwards as a share of Commonwealth taxation revenue.”

Mayor Burnett said the ALGA also welcomed the ongoing attention on local government sustainability through the Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Fiscal Sustainability.

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Free breast screening in Gloucester

MIDCOAST Council is providing long-term support for three major events expected to inject an estimated $34 million into the local economy.

Council will provide a total of $90,000 in funding support to the Old Bar Beach Festival, the Barrington Coast Air Show and the Barrington Coast Beach 5s.

THE BreastScreen NSW van will be providing free breast cancer screening in Gloucester from 9 June to 8 July.

BreastScreen NSW Hunter New England manager Rebecca Delaporte said a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment,

Each event will be provided support for three years.

The Barrington Coast Air Show will be delivered biannually from this year until 2030.

Council’s Executive Manager Sustainable Development, Rachel Pleasant said the move shows a commitment to

such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,” she said.

“Around 90 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.

“This is why breast cancer screening is so important for all eligible women.”

Women aged 50-74 are recommended to be screened every two years.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to screen from age 40.

“Bringing these vital services to Gloucester means

grow the region’s economy.

“These agreements are about backing events that bring real economic value to the MidCoast,” Ms Pleasant said.

“By providing longterm certainty, we’re giving organisers the confidence to grow these events, while helping local businesses plan for the increased visitation

more local women can be screened,” Ms Delaporte said.

“Life gets busy and we want women to make their health a priority.”

The BreastScreen NSW van will be located in Billabong Lane carpark, corner Billabong Lane and Denison Street, Gloucester.

An appointment with BreastScreen NSW is free, takes less than 20 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.

Any woman with a family history of breast cancer

should discuss their specific needs with their GP.

Anyone with breast symptoms should contact their GP or health worker without delay.

The mobile clinic visiting Gloucester is equipped with a lift system to support women with mobility issues or disability to have their mammogram.

Women with additional needs are encouraged to let van staff know when booking their appointment.

To book a free mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, visit breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or call 13 20 50.

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living areas.

The heart of the home is the open plan kitchen, dining and living space, designed for both everyday living and entertaining.

The kitchen has stone benchtops, a large island breakfast bar, dishwasher,

they bring.

“More visitors means more people staying in our accommodation, dining in our restaurants, shopping locally and experiencing what makes the MidCoast such a special destination.”

The funding to support the events will come from Council’s Grants, Donations and Sponsorship Program.

electric cooking with induction cooktop, loads of storage and a generous butler's pantry.

The property features:

- Four bedrooms, all with BIR, the master has a walkthrough robe

- Media room which could serve as a fifth bedroom

- Ducted air conditioning

- Tar sealed driveway and a storage shed

- Positioned at the rear of the rural/residential Briton Court Estate

- Easy walk to the Karuah River.

A brand new home, a generous parcel of land, and a lifestyle to match - this property offers the complete package.

Contact Denise Haynes for further enquiry on 0414 725 482.

Budget brawl escalates over rival tax cut proposals

By Zac DE SILVA, AAP

A ROW has broken out over the cost of cutting taxes for millions of Australians as Labor and the opposition try to sell rival economic plans to

voters.

After a week dominated by the state of the nation's finances, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused the opposition of failing to properly price its plan to

bake in tax cuts to every federal budget.

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor wants to index tax brackets in line with inflation, effectively giving most Australians a tax cut

each year from 2028/29, while Labor has announced a $250 rebate each year for all working Australians.

But Mr Albanese said the hit to the budget would be bigger than the opposition

predicted.

"They came out with a costing of $22 billion... we know it's at least $35 billion," he told reporters in Hobart.

"There were no facts there at all."

Mr Taylor said he stood by the four-year costing, which would be offset by cuts to government programs, including funds for social and affordable housing that the coalition believes are wasteful.

The opposition leader argued leaving current settings in place would amount to a tax hike due to bracket creep as people were pushed into higher tiers through wage inflation.

"This betrays the fact that the government plans to raise income tax rates to the tune of $35 billion... the faster inflation goes up, the more they hike them," he told Sky News.

An opinion poll published on Sunday suggested the government's plan to wind back negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount had been poorly received and was widely regarded among voters as a broken election promise.

According to Freshwater research published by News Corp, 44 percent of voters think the budget will leave their household worse off while 13 percent think it will

Fuel transparency differing between regions

THE NSW Government’s ongoing FuelCheck inspection program has revealed which regions across the state have the best and worst compliance rates for price transparency.

While approximately half of all inspections have taken place outside of Sydney, around 70 percent of all fines have been issued in regional NSW.

The Central Coast comes out on top for fuel transparency, with only one fine issued for price mismatching through the Bowser Buster campaign.

The Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions came in a close second, recording only three fines since March.

Three regions have demonstrated the worst compliance rates, with multiple fines issued to fuel retailers in the area.

The Southern Tablelands and South Coast has recorded the highest number of fines in the state, with 33 penalties

issued, predominantly for mismatches between the price at the pump and the price on FuelCheck.

Service stations in the Riverina and Central West are also amongst those logging the highest number of price mismatches, each with 30 and 21 penalties.

Service stations that display ‘red flag’ behaviours, such as receiving fines or multiple consumer complaints, will continue to be the target of NSW Fair Trading’s re-inspections.

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said, “Our inspectors have been working around the clock and in every corner of the state checking for compliance in petrol stations to stamp out price mismatches.

“FuelCheck is a crucial tool that puts power back in the hands of motorists.

“When families pull up for fuel, they deserve clear and accurate information.

“This is about strengthening fuel price transparency and ensuring FuelCheck works for everyone.”

Single service stations in Cooma, Lismore, Kelso, Newcastle, Goulburn and Port Kembla have all been issued multiple fines in an inspection, while a fuel retailer in the Murray region was dealt with a penalty for a 24 percent price mismatch for diesel.

NSW Fair Trading has now conducted over 4,600 field inspections and reinspections.

Inspectors have also issued more than 270 fines, with around 80 percent of these penalties being for price mismatches.

Legislation that passed the Legislative Assembly last week will also make it illegal for service stations to fail to notify FuelCheck of a standard price of fuel or fuel unavailability at the bowser.

The proposed legislation

will also increase the fines for individuals from $22,000 to $55,000.

On-the-spot fines for service stations will be tripled to $3,300 for the first offence and $11,000 for the second

offence within 12 months.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Our proposed laws, coupled with our inspection program, are all about deterring

improve their circumstances.

More than 80 percent of those surveyed thought Labor had broken its promise to leave property tax concessions unchanged.

Asked whether he was disappointed by the survey results, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he wasn't expecting support for the government to increase due to its budget reforms.

"I'd be more surprised if there was a bounce," he said, pointing to the oil crisis and a "predictable scare campaign" as factors driving down support for the government.

"We're not doing this to help our primary vote, we're doing this to help more people into housing."

Startups could still be carved out from changes to capital gains tax due to fears the new inflation-linked method of calculating the charge could drive investment away from up-and-coming businesses.

"There are particular issues when it comes to the cost-based calculation in startups, particularly in tech and when it comes to (venture capital)," Dr Chalmers said.

"We recognise that there are specific issues here and so it's not unusual for there to be consultation on implementation after a big policy change is announced."

service stations from taking motorists for a ride.

“As we close in on the final retailers in the most remote regions, we want motorists to be alert to price mismatching at their local servo and report their concerns directly to FuelCheck.”

DUNGOG SHIRE News Of The Area

Steps taken to address fuel security

THE NSW Government’s Investment Delivery Authority (IDA) will run a targeted Expression of Interest (EOI) round calling for major projects that safeguard the state against future global fuel supply shocks.

The EOI will focus on commercial-scale projects valued at $100 million or more that would directly improve fuel security, including:

• fuel storage and

distribution infrastructure

• domestic, importindependent liquid fuel production, focused on renewable fuels and their feedstocks such as sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, biodiesel, biomethane and green ammonia

• heavy electric vehicle charging hubs and fleets, to reduce reliance on diesel over time.

According to a NSW Government statement,

the IDA will use its existing operating model to help remove delivery barriers, coordinate engagement across government and support endorsed projects to progress more quickly.

Alongside the EOI round, the NSW Government will run a market sounding process to help understand what’s needed to unlock future investment related to fuel security.

This will provide an option for proponents

whose projects do not yet meet IDA EOI criteria, such as those at an earlier stage of development, to still put forward information about potential projects as part of the fuel security round.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “This is about making sure NSW is better prepared, better protected and better positioned to deal with global shocks, while keeping our economy and essential services moving.

“We also recognise that

not every good idea is ready to go on day one, which is why we’re running a market sounding process alongside the EOI round.”

In a further attempt to improve fuel security, the NSW Government will also expand the Renewable Fuel Scheme to include lowcarbon and renewable liquid fuels.

The Scheme currently provides financial incentives for green hydrogen and will shortly be expanded to

include biomethane.

The government will now add renewable liquid fuels such as sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and biodiesel, pending consultation with industry.

The fuel security round of the IDA and the market sounding process will open on 1 June, 2026.

Proponents will have three weeks to submit their projects.

For more information on the IDA visit www.nsw. gov.au/departments-andagencies/investment-nsw/ investment-deliveryauthority.

Police charge 900-plus in DV operation

NSW POLICE have charged over 900 people following a four-day statewide operation targeting offenders with a history of domestic violence.

Operation Amarok XIII ran from Wednesday 13 to Saturday 16 May.

The operation is described as an “intelligenceled, offender-focused operation that aims to ensure the safety and wellbeing of domestic and family violence victims and the broader NSW community”.

The Domestic and Family Violence Commandled operation also involved officers from each regions’ Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team (DVHROT), along with specialist officers from State Crime

Command’s Raptor Squad, Youth Command, State Crime Command’s Child Protection Register, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, and the Police Transport Command.

Across the four days, 993 people were arrested and charged, with 299 arrest warrants executed.

Police laid 2,063 charges and conducted 1,847 bail compliance checks and 14,318 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 391 breaches identified.

Officers conducted 142 firearms prohibition order (FPO) searches, with 94 firearms and 48 weapons seized.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said that Operation Amarok sent a clear message to the “cowards committing

domestic violence offences”.

“Police target the people who pose the greatest risk: repeat offenders, wanted offenders and those with outstanding warrants,” Minister Catley said.

“Domestic and family violence is a stain on our society.

“These offenders rely on fear and control, and Amarok is about turning that pressure back onto them.

“If you use violence, intimidation or coercive control, police will come for you.”

Domestic and Family Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Dunstan, said officers were committed to identifying offenders, protecting victims and disrupting violent behaviour before it escalated.

“Too many people in our community are living in fear inside their own homes, and Operation Amarok is designed to intervene, support victims and ensure offenders are put before the court.

“Our focus is on removing violent offenders from homes and enforcing protection orders.

“This operation reinforces our ongoing commitment to tackling domestic and family violence year-round.

“Amarok may be a targeted operation, but our dedication to protecting victims and pursuing offenders occurs every day and never stops.”

“This operation is about holding perpetrators to account,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Dunstan said.

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY SHETLAND

ABC TV, 8.30pm

It’s freezing cold, claustrophobically small and the whole place knows your business, but even reluctant returnee Ruth Calder (Ashley Jensen, pictured) can’t deny that Shetland is home. Officially a resident of the Scottish isles when this ninth season begins, Calder is thrown into an uncomfortable situation by a double missing person’s case that blurs the line between private and professional lives. Annie (Sarah MacGillivray), the woman who has vanished with her young son, is a friend of Tosh (Alison O’Donnell), and had arranged to speak to her about something important the night before she disappeared.

FRIDAY, May 22

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson meets a horticulturalist.

8.30 Shetland. (Return, Mlv) Calder and Tosh investigate when a woman goes missing with her nine-year-old son.

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

10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R)

10.30 ABC Late News.

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

11.35 Love Me. (Mdl, R)

1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (Premiere)

WEDNESDAY

GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

Living in the advent of autocorrect and AI, you might wonder who spell these days. Comedians, that’s who. Logie Award-winning host Guy Montgomery won’t let the written word go quietly, enlisting a roster of famous stand-ups, rising stars and bewildered actors to spell homophones, esoteric scientific terms and names of audience members alike. Brimming with zany set-ups and lightningfast improv, it’s one of the truest joys on Australian TV. In Wednesday’s episode, Montgomery and his sidekick Sam Campbell (near left, with Montgomery) find out if Rose Matafeo, David O’Doherty or Tim McDonald can topple the carryover champ.

THURSDAY

RICK STEIN’S AUSTRALIA

Whether he’s at home in Cornwall or soaking up

residence, chef Rick Stein (pictured) rarely strays far from the ocean. And with a gift for preparing seafood with such fresh, natural flavour, who could blame him? However, for this tasty travelogue, the Englishman is leaving the coast behind and taking in Australian landscapes further inland. After venturing into the Outback last week, Stein heads to New South Wales’ Riverina region. He’s keen to see how the area’s floodplains have become a food bowl for the entire nation, stopping by an emu farm, the De Bortoli winery and a “perfect” Italian bakery.

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. (Premiere)

9.50 Rock Legends. (PGa)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (Mas)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.00 MOVIE: Ladies In Black. (2018, PGl, R) A young woman learns about life and love while working at a department store in ’50s Sydney. Angourie Rice, Julia Ormond.

10.15 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 12.00 Quacks. (MA15+d)

12.45 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Canterbury Bulldogs v Melbourne Storm.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran rescues POWs. Sylvester Stallone.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, 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)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning

10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Love It Or List

6.00

SATURDAY, May 23

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim goes into labour.

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. (PG)

A distillery owner is poisoned.

8.30 Silent Witness. (M) When a mysterious contagion spreads on a flight, Dr Nikki Alexander must contain a deadly illness.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mal, R) Bergerac’s pursuit of Monica has severe consequences. 11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGaw)

8.20 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)

9.20 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)

10.15 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGav, R) 11.15 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

1.55 Matched. (PG, R)

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

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (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. 8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: Armageddon. (1998, Mv, R) A veteran oil driller and his team must save humanity after an asteroid is discovered on a collision course with Earth. Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler.

11.35 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 1. Highlights. 1.35 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return Of The Jedi. (1983, PGv, R) Mark Hamill. 10.10 MOVIE: Stargate. (1994, PGv, R) Kurt Russell. 12.20 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

1.10 Tasman Trails. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

9.00 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving, as they deal with a diabetic coma, a rescue from a burning car, a child in anaphylaxis and an explosion in Chinatown.

6am Mr. Holmes.

Continued. (2015, PG) 7.10 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 9.00 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 11.00 Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 12.40pm The First Day Of My Life. (2023, M, Italian) 2.55 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 4.55 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 6.55 The

SUNDAY, May 24

6.00

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Jessica Mauboy. Autistic students interview Jessica Mauboy.

8.15 Bad Company. (M) Staff are trapped when new smart locks malfunction.

8.45 Bergerac. (Mlv) Bergerac’s career is on the line as the case gets personal.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

A distillery owner is poisoned.

10.30 Silent Witness. (M, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Shut Your Big Fat Mouth John Safran! (Ma)

8.45 Cannes Uncut. (Maln, R)

10.15 Osher Günsberg: A World Of Pain. (Mads, R)

11.25 The Rise And Fall Of Boris Becker. (Mals, R)

1.15 Matched. (PG, R)

3.00 The Sculpture. (PGav, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Scandinavia Bitesize. (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 The Real Adolescence: Our Killer Kids. (MA15+av) 10.30 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Mad, R) 11.40 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R) 12.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 2. Highlights.

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 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 8.00 The Michael Jackson Story: Fame. (Premiere, Mas) Follows Michael Jackson’s rise to fame. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

MONDAY, May 25

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

SBS World News.

Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

Ancient Greece By Train. (R)

Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

SBS World News Late. 10.55 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav) 12.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R) 3.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 My Unique B&B. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Ml) 8.40 9-1-1. (M) Buck is faced with his past. 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGal)

New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Footy Classified. (Ml)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. Continued. (1952, PG) 7.55 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 10.00 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 12.20pm The Fence. (2022, M) 2.00 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 4.00 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 5.35 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 7.35 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 9.15 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 26

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.05 The Negotiator. (Ma) 12.00 World On Fire. (Malv, R) 3.15 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R) 4.15 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.50 Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 9.15 Doc. (Ma) While navigating the fallout from Katie’s secret, Amy treats a critically-ill patient with a dark one of her own. 10.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well. 11.15 The Agenda Setters. 12.15 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30

7.50 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.45 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 9.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 16. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 7.05 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 8.50 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 10.25 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 12.30pm Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. (1952, PG) 5.40 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 7.30 The New Boy. (2023, M) 9.40 Samson And Delilah. (2009, M) 11.35 Late Programs.

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Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also available BEHIND THE BAR

8 tap beers • Great wines • Cocktails ENTERTAINMENT

Morning Programs. 8.30

WEDNESDAY, May 27

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 11.00 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, May 28 6.00

SBS World News.

Alexander Armstrong In India. (Final, PGan)

The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

The Audacity. (MA15+l)

SBS World News Late.

Rise Of The Raven. (Mv) 11.55 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R) 1.40 Classified. (MA15+v, R) 3.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 4.20 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

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

VICELAND (31)

6am Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 10.10 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 11.50 The New Boy. (2023, M)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv) Recruits tackle an extraction task.

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 Australia: Now And Then. (Mal, R) 12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL State of Origin. Game 1. New South Wales v Queensland. 10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 1. 11.00 NRL Origin Stories. (PGl, R) Looks at the history of the NRL Origin series.

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Explore TV Viking. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PG)

8.40 Titanic: Our Secret History. (PGa, R)

9.35 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Ma)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (MA15+l) 11.55 De Gaulle. (Ma, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

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

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGl, R) Takes a look at some blatant busts.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec.

10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (Malv)

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 Brave New World. (Premiere, MA15+asv)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30

CONGRATULATIONS to Les and Joan Houston, celebrating 65 years of marriage on 20th May 2026. Best wishes from your sons, their wives and lots of grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

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On the Couch

DEAR Jasminda,

By JASMINDA

MY friend is a good listener, but sometimes I forget my train of thought and ask her what I was talking about and she never knows. Does this seem odd?

Delia H.

Dear

Delia,

There is a very big difference between pretending to listen and using actively listening skills.

Many people become adept at the former and give a damn fine impression of the latter,

News Of The Area OPINION

when in reality they only hear the occasional word.

It is a skill, and sometimes a survival mechanism, when you have friends or family members that frequently unload for hours at a time.

A conversation is a two-way contract, so if you think your friend is a good listener, consider if you are also a good listener, or if you are simply getting things off your chest that may be of no consequence.

There is nothing wrong with working through issues, but if your friend is merely a sounding board, it may be becoming exhausting for them to be constantly listening (or pretending to listen) to the (no doubt riveting, but possibly not) details of your life.

The clear cue that your friend is not listening is that she can never recall what you are talking about. Perhaps she is perimenopausal and can't remember anything.

Or perhaps, while you are unloading about your kids, or

your husband, or your dog, she is a million miles away, possibly imagining she is skiing in the swiss alps, or immersed (up to the neck) in a hot tub (a glass of pinot gris in her hand) or maybe she is imagining that she is frolicking in the ocean with Jason Momoa and/ or a seal.

Then, in the midst of these diversions, you interject with 'now I've forgotten my train of thought, what was I talking about?' and her imaginative escape is shattered.

Then she has to take a stab in the dark as to whether you were talking about your son's recent tooth extraction, or your husband's propensity to cut his toenails on the mohair rug, or your desire to paint your walls Hog Bristle because you're sick of Lexicon White.

A friendship is a give-and-take arrangement.

I'd suggest next time you catch up, you ask her what she has been up to.

And then you listen. Really listen. And ask questions to show

you're listening. Unless, of course, she starts talking about home renovations, in which case you have permission to adopt any of the above

Dorin's Drawings

imaginative escapes or come up with your own.

Ask the real estate expert...

Over-capitalising

If you’re renovating with plans to sell in the next couple of years, it’s important to avoid over-capitalising - spending more on improvements than you’ll recover at sale time. Start by understanding your home’s current market value with an appraisal from a local real estate agent. This gives you a realistic guide for setting a renovation budget.

Generally, many homeowners work within around 10% of the property’s value for cosmetic and lifestyle upgrades. Focus on areas that buyers notice most: kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor entertaining spaces and energy-efficient additions such as solar power or water tanks. Always renovate with the future buyer in mind. While features like swimming pools may appeal to some, they can also deter buyers concerned about maintenance and running costs. Functional design, good layout and quality workmanship are far more valuable in the long run.

Careful planning is key. Choose experienced tradespeople, create a realistic budget and allow for unexpected costs along the way. A well considered renovation can add strong appeal and valuewithout the financial regret.

Denise

PROTECTING HOMES

FROM Page 1

people’s homes.

Fire safety inspections play a crucial role in protecting families by identifying potential hazards before they become lifethreatening emergencies.

As previously reported in NOTA (15 April 2026), in an effort to reduce the number of fire fatalities across the state, Fire and Rescue NSW is encouraging residents across NSW to book in a fire safety visit to help protect themselves and their loved ones.

The program specifically targets households that may statistically, be at higher risk of fires occurring, including: - over 65s, - people who live alone, - those with limited mobility, hearing or vision impairments, - residents who are supported by carers, family or friends, and - anyone with English as a second language.

Gloucester Station Officer Beau Douglas told NOTA that his station is currently completing approximately a dozen safety visits per week, and hopes this number increases, particularly moving into the cooler months.

“It is concerning that we are finding homes with smoke alarms that are 20, even 30 years old, or worse, and homes with no smoke alarms

at all,” said Mr Douglas.

“It is important that all households have a working smoke alarm as it provides early warning of a fire to allow the best chance to escape the home safely, particularly of a night while sleeping, when our ability to smell smoke is reduced.

“We are happy to work with residents and provide replacement batteries or install smoke alarms for residents that do not have one installed.

“We also provide fire safety advice during the visit, particularly around the use of fireplaces and the charging of lithium-ion batteries.”

NOTA had the opportunity to observe a house fire safety inspection and was impressed by its thoroughness and attention to detail, such as the positioning of fire blankets,

fire extinguishers and exit door keys.

Mr Douglas indicated that because Gloucester has a large number of aged residents, lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire risk, particularly when they are not charged correctly, and those charging scooters and other devices should only use the charger that came with the device.

“Just because the plug fits, doesn't mean it's compatible,” added Mr Douglas.

“As the weather cools and we begin to use fireplaces and other heating devices - I would also encourage residents to keep everything at least a metre from the heater.”

Anyone who wishes to book a Safety Visit can do so by visiting fire.nsw.gov.au/ visits.

SPORT RESULTS

Gloucester Lady Bowlers

By Jennifer BURLEY

WEREN'T we lucky with the weather for the first round of the Thelma Bolton Pairs? With showers threatening all games were completed before the the rain really got serious and lay in puddles on the rink. Results of the 2 scheduled games were: Bev Germon and Suzanne Cross 20 defeated Bev Murray and Jill Carson 16. And Cheryl West and Julie Kriss 19

defeated Judy Sheely and Joy Hurworth 11.

Thus the Semi Final on Wednesday 20th, Bev and Suzanne will play Cheryl and Julie and the pair of Ruth Redman and Val Pritchard will play Jenny Burley and Di Pritchard.

There were 2 games of Social Bowls that played 3 bowl pairs: Val Pritchard and Ruth Redman 18 defeated Helen Banks and visitor Julie

Painter 11.

And Penny Gibson and Jeanette Mumford 16 accounted for Jenny Burley and Deb Horner 12. And as the Trophy for the day was a draw of all cards the winners were team Penny and Jeanette, congratulations girls.

Names please on the board for the Minor Singles Championship for play to start Wednesday 3rd June.

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT VETS

By Trudy SCHULTZ

ANOTHER beautiful sunny morning provided the perfect backdrop for Round 3 of the Gloucester Scorpions local competition, with strong participation, plenty of smiles and some fantastic football across all divisions.

The Accommodation Gloucester Mini Roos competition continues to grow in confidence each week, with players

developing their ball skills, learning the game and enjoying being out on the field with their teammates. It has been wonderful to see the improvement in confidence and coordination from our youngest Scorpions.

In the LMD Building Services Division 3 competition, all teams played exceptionally well, with players showing great enthusiasm, sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the morning.

The kids are clearly enjoying their games and continuing to improve each week.

Loveys IGA Gloucester Division 2 is shaping into an exciting competition, with teams beginning to work together strongly and several players already showing outstanding skill and confidence on the ball.

The development across the division has been fantastic to watch.

The Gloss-Ter Carwash

Division 1 competition continues to deliver thrilling football, with both teams proving to be evenly matched.

Each week’s game has been a nail-biter, with strong competition, excellent teamwork and some high-quality soccer on display.

Gloucester Soccer Club would like to thank all players, coaches, managers, referees, volunteers, sponsors and families for their continued support throughout the season.

Veterinarian Dr Claire O’Brien is now offering professional dental care for horses and donkeys following completion of her Level One Equine Dentistry Course.

Regular dental care is important for maintaining a horse’s comfort, health and performance, helping prevent issues such as oral pain, difficulty chewing, weight loss, colic and behavioural changes.

To celebrate the relaunch of this service, Gloucester District Vets is holding dedicated Equine Dental Days with limited spots available at a special fixed price. Each horse will receive:

• Complete oral health examination

• Dental correction and floating of teeth

• Removal of deciduous or wolf teeth where required

• Take-home goodie bag

This is a great opportunity for local horse owners to ensure their horse’s dental health is up to date.

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL.

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Exposed to asbestos or silica dust?

FOR many in our community, hard work in industries like timber, farming, power generation, construction and mining has been a way of life.

But for some, that work has come at a hidden cost.

Diseases caused by asbestos and silica dust often take decades to appear.

By the time symptoms develop, the connection to past employment may not be immediately obvious.

Yet under New South Wales law, people diagnosed with dust diseases may be entitled to significant compensation - even if exposure occurred many years ago.

Carter Hawkins Lawyers is a specialist firm dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by dust disease.

With a strong focus on client care, the firm assists with claims through the Dust Diseases Tribunal and the Dust Board (iCare), guiding clients through what can often be a complex and emotional process.

Importantly, exposure is not limited to a single workplace.

Many cases arise from years spent working across local power stations, coal mines, construction sites and industrial employers throughout regional New South Wales.

Even brief or secondary exposure can be enough to cause serious illness.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a dust-related condition, it is worth seeking advice. Early guidance can make a meaningful difference - not just financially, but in securing support and peace of mind for the future.

Carter Hawkins offers a free in-home consultation to discuss your entitlements.

You can then decide whether to proceed with a claim from there.

Gloucester Tennis Club

By Anthony KINGSTON

THE first round of the 2026 tennis interclub competition was held recently, with Laurieton travelling to Gloucester to take on the local team.

With fine weather, the courts in excellent condition

and the four local women and four local men primed to take on their Laurieton counterparts, all was set for an excellent afternoon of tennis.

And so it was, with players from both teams giving their best and everyone enjoying both the camaraderie and the

Saturday Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

THERE was a large field of golfers on course at Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday 16 May for the Gloucester Outdoor Solutions sponsored event with Mark Ball and Brett Jones taking top honours.

The size of the field owed much to the early arrival of visitors for the Veterans Week of Golf which was due to begin on Monday 18 May.

The event was a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford and the winners with a handy score of 47 Stableford points were Mark Ball and Brett Jones. Runners up were Simon Fox and Bill Murray 46 and the top individual score was Mark Ball’s 40.

Balls were won by Mark Ball and Brett Jones 47, Simon Fox and Bill Murray 46, John Payne and Simon Fox 43, Jamie Andrews and Luke Woods 43, and by John

competition.

In the end, Laurieton proved too strong on the day and travelled home worthy winners.

Gloucester will play Cundletown in coming weeks in the next round of the competition.

Cornelius and Matt Young 41.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Jamie Andrews in A grade, Michael Stinson in B grade and by Peter Markey in C grade. At the 6th and 15th holes the three grades were represented by Mark Ball, Graeme Pitman and John Payne with Jo-Ann Stinson closest of the women players.

The long drives at the 8th and 17th holes were won by Ken Edwards, John Cornelius, Bill Murray and Maria Pitman. The trophies for the long drive

Gloucester Night Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

LAST Thursday evening

the Gloucester Veteran Golfers staged a special Night Golf event with 28 players turning out for some fascinating golfing experiences.

The course was especially lit for the occasion and all golf balls used glowed in the dark all of which meant that the balls were easily found. The evening was cool enough though judged by all to be “playable”.

The event played was

and Nearest-to-the-Pin at the 1st and 10th holes were won by Dave Hitchick, Simon Fox and Nick Pepper while the trophy for the Nearest-to-thePin at the 9th and 18th holes was won by Sam Tooley.

Griffiths' Narrow Win in Vets Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

IT WAS a close-run thing on Tuesday 12 May for the Gloucester Veteran Golfers with three players sharing the leading score and just one, Paul Griffiths prevailing on a count back.

The day was fine and

mild with a good-sized field turning out. The event, sponsored by Debie and Peter Sate was an Individual Stableford with Paul Griffiths’ 37 taking top honours on after a favourable count back.

Balls were won by Karen Howarth and Peter Sate 37, Anne Wand and Arthur

Poynting 35, Peter McIntyre 34, with Max Shepherd, 32, picking up the last ball on a count back.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Peter McIntyre. At the shorter 6th and 15th holes, that honour was won by Anne Wand and

Bill Murray. For four days Monday 18 through Friday 22 May, the Gloucester Veteran Golfers are hosting their annual Veterans Week of Golf with members and visitors.

Next Tuesday, 26 May, they play a Four Ball Aggregate Stableford.

an eight-hole Ambrose with seven teams of four intrepid players vying for club house honours postmatch.

The top prize was won by a team of Peter Markey, Liane Markey, Phil Bowden and Ken Kelly with a score of 23½ points. In second place, just a touch back, was Mark Stone, Tony Berecry, Derek Wand and Matt Peters 25 3/8.

In third place was Denver Webb, Ian Maggs, Brian Osborne and Tony Burnet with a score of 27½ points.

The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 15 May was won by Wayne Maddalena with a score of 17 points. Ball winners were Will Bosma 16 sand Graeme Marsh 13/

After the fun and games on the course there was a dinner catered for by the Gloucester Veteran Ladies under the careful eye of Margaret Dunn, a smorgasbord of hot crockpot dishes and casseroles followed by some homemade slices.

There were thumbs up all round and special thanks were recorded to Tony Burnet, Jim Dunn and Trevor Sharp and the team of veteran golfers who set up the course with the lighting.

On Saturday 23 May there will be a Four Person Ambrose sponsored by Level Electric & Air and the following Saturday there will be an Individual Stableford.

Canadian Foursomes

By Carolyn DAVIES

THIS Wednesday 13 May, the Gloucester Golf Ladies played a novelty event called Canadian Foursomes with Rhonda Nightingale and Moya Harris winning the day. Canadian Foursomes is played in pairs; both players hit tee shots, select the best ball, and play alternate shots until the ball is holed.

The course had no need for watering this week, with squalls of showers during the preceding days and that of the event. Pin placements still reflected the challenging needs of the Men's Club Championship final round on Saturday. The winners were Rhonda Nightingale, following up from her win from the week before, and Moya Harris, both wearing matching bright orange shirts combining for a net score of 72. They both won a colourful tray of fruit and vegetables from the sponsor of the day, Liane Markey. Balls were won by Cheryl Goodrich and Carolyn Davies, 75, and Margaret Dunn and Karen Howarth 76.

Sharing the prizes around, Jo Richardson and Pat Burrows won the Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 4th and 13th holes while Cindy Gooch was on target on the 6th and 15th holes.

On Wednesday 20 May there will be a Women's Golf NSW Medal event, an Individual Stroke event for the Mabel McKenzie Brooch. Next Wednesday, 27 May, there will be a Three Person Ambrose.