Gloucester District News Of The Area 25 FEBRUARY 2026

GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News

Local Community News ~ Proudly Independent ~ Family Owned Wednesday, 25 February 2026

Steroids and cocaine seized

Funding flows for community groups

THIRTY-THREE

community organisations in the Gloucester and Stroud regions have benefited from a share in $92,000 through Stratford Coal’s 2026 Community Support Program.

The funding will support a diverse range of local organisations including primary and high schools, rural fire services, creative and cultural associations, historical societies, sporting clubs, community halls, country clubs, preschool services and support groups.

Over 30 community representatives attended a presentation on 3 February at The Little Avon in Gloucester to celebrate the funding boost.

Rod Williams of the

CAPACITY CONCERNS

By John WATTS

REPORTERS

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

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

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

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

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

Steroids and cocaine seized

A MAN has been charged with alleged drug supply after vials of steroids and cocaine were seized on the Mid Coast.

About 10.40pm on Friday 21 February, officers attached to Manning Great Lakes Police District stopped an Isuzu Ute on Salt Water Road, Old Bar, following reports of alleged drug supply.

The driver – a 23-yearold man – was spoken to by police and subjected to a roadside drug test, which returned an alleged positive result for cocaine.

A subsequent vehicle search was conducted where officers allegedly located and seized cocaine, resealable bags and $2690 cash.

The man was arrested and taken to Taree Police Station.

Following inquiries,

about 1.22am on Saturday 21 February, officers attended a home on Holden Road, Rainbow Flat, and executed a search warrant.

During the search, police allegedly located and seized 168 vials of steroids and a further $12,850 cash.

The man was charged with 14 offences being;

- Supply prohibited drug greater than indictable and less than commercial quantity

- Two counts of possess prohibited drug

- Two counts of recklessly deal with proceeds of crime less than $5000

- Six counts of possess drug (not cannabis leaf/ MDMA) not exceed small quantity

- Three counts of possess/attempt to, prescribed restricted

q A vehicle search was conducted where officers allegedly located and seized cocaine, resealable bags and $2690 cash.

substance He was refused bail to appear before Bail

Division Court 1 last week, where he was granted conditional bail to appear before Taree Local Court on Tuesday 17 March 2026

Funding flows for community groups

FROM Page 1

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Stroud Road Community Hall and Progress Association said, “We would like to thank Stratford Coal for their ongoing support in the local community.

“Most of the organisations receiving funding are run by volunteers, and continued financial investment is needed for the organisations to continue

to operate.

“All yearly running costs for the Stroud Road Community Hall and Progress Association are raised through either donations or fundraising events.”

Stratford Coal Operations Manager John Cullen congratulated the successful 2026 recipients.

“We are dedicated to making a positive difference to the

Gloucester and Stroud communities and its people and a key way of doing this is funding programs and initiatives year on year through our Community Support Program.

“We always enjoy hosting a Community Support Program presentation so we can get everyone together to celebrate their donation and discuss how they are going to invest it into

their programs or bring a new idea to life for the benefit of the people in our community.

“This year we are pleased to see that our funding will go towards enhancing school programs and learning opportunities, help run local community events, purchase vital firefighting equipment, build new playground equipment at schools, improve local signage, update outdoor

community spaces, install a publicly accessible defibrillator and upgrade buildings and facilities.”

The Stratford Coal Community Support Program runs annually.

Funded by Yancoal Australia it provides financial assistance to local groups working in the areas of health, community, environment, arts, culture, education and training.

Highway Patrol seize over $1 million worth of illicit drugs

HIGHWAY Patrol officers have charged a driver and seized over $1 million worth of cocaine and cannabis during a vehicle stop at Nabiac.

About 12.40am on Saturday 21 February, officers attached to Port Stephens–Manning Highway Patrol stopped a Toyota Camry on

Bucketts

Club Gloucester

Lovey's IGA

R & R Property

Gloucester Library

Gloucester Caravan Park

Hebbys Bakery

Yates & Twomey

Hannaford

the Pacific Highway for roadside testing.

The driver – a 22-year-old man – allegedly returned a positive roadside drug test for cocaine and was arrested.

During the arrest the man allegedly supplied police with a fake licence and following initial checks police determined the

22-year-old was a suspended learner driver.

Following the arrest, officers searched the Toyota locating and seizing 4kg of cocaine and 45kg of cannabis.

Police also seized $980 cash and several electronic devices from the vehicle.

The street value of the drugs seized is estimated to be worth around $1,450,000.

The man was taken to Forster Police Station where he was charged with “supply prohibited drug more than or equal to large commercial quantity”, “supply prohibited drug more than or equal to commercial quantity”, “drive motor vehicle while licence suspended”, “driver or rider state false name or home address”, “recklessly deal with proceeds of crime less than or equal to $5000”, and “possess prohibited drug” (two counts).

CAPACITY CONCERNS

FROM Page 1

construction phase of the project, but the company has provided no details about whether the workers would

of the potentially significant impact on the town.

“The glib recommendation for a Construction Workforce Accommodation Strategy only

and experienced builder of mines and associated infrastructure in a variety of geographies in Australia and it should be able to give

Worker Accommodation Strategy and a Community Enhancement Plan that details measures to provide the health, education and other social services that the construction workers (and their families) will require

“An influx of workers wanting accommodation will increase rental rates and could displace many locals already renting.

“I would also be concerned that if all the motels were booked out by particularly during peak tourism periods and any additional pressure from proposed projects has the potential to reduce visitor capacity, which is a valid concern for a town where tourism plays a vital role in

Arts Group launches all-ages writing contest

By John WATTS

FANCY yourself as a writer?

If so, then this might be just the competition for you.

For some time, James Hooke has been concerned that writing skills do not receive the recognition that they should.

“I have noticed that there are always lots of awards and prizes for sport, but few for the important skill of writing,” said James.

“I decided that Gloucester needed a writing competition which hopefully could do a little bit to change that.”

So, James, in association with Gloucester Arts and Cultural Association (GACCI), has organised a writing competition which

will be open to all ages.

“We want kids in particular to understand how important reading and writing is,” added James.

“The competition will be open to everyone from ages 6 to plus 90, with the writing up to 2,000 words, which can be on any topic, and in any format.

“It might be a short story, or a poem, or a play –anything.”

There will be a cash prize of $500 for the winner, $300 for second, $200 for third, and several $50 encouragement prizes.

More details about the competition and the judging criteria will soon be available on social media, via street posters, and on the GACCI website.

Greyhound euthanised after injuries

A GREYHOUND has been euthanised after sustaining significant injuries during racing at Taree on Sunday, 22 February.

An assessment of the injuries by the on-track veterinarian determined the greyhound, Effie, was unable to enter the Greyhound Racing NSW care scheme which provides ambulatory, surgical and rehabilitation care for dogs injured racing.

Effie’s passing brings the number of on-track euthanasias to five for the 202526 financial year.

“The sad loss of Effie was the first ontrack euthanasia in 128 days of racing on NSW racetracks,” GRNSW said in a statement.

“Our condolences go out to the trainer, owners and connections of Effie.

“While such outcomes have reduced by more than 90 percent since 2017-18… the NSW greyhound racing industry remains committed to delivering the highest welfare for its canine athletes.”

New play area for Gloucester’s best friends

By John WATTS

SARAH Wortley from Gloucester River Dogs is delighted with the announcement a new fenced off-leash dog park will be developed within the existing off-leash area of Gloucester District Park.

Gloucester River Dogs is an informal assembly of dog lovers who for some time have been meeting regularly with their dogs for a couple of hours of socialising, play, and connection by the Gloucester River.

“We had a good meeting recently on site where the Council gave details of the plans for a new off-leash area,” said Sarah.

“It will cover an area of over 2,000 square metres and have separate areas for big and small dog, double gates, and water supplies, which is great.”

According to MidCoast

Council the park concept has been developed using feedback from previous community engagement projects, including the Open Space and Recreation Strategy.

Construction is scheduled to begin in late February and completion is expected by the end of March, weather permitting.

“Gloucester Lions Club have been instrumental to this project and have worked closely with Council to develop the concept, identify the site, get feedback from Gloucester dog owners and will be working with Gloucester Men's Shed on the construction of the dog agility equipment and other facilities in the park,” said Council in a statement.

Funding for the project comes from the Duralie Community Infrastructure Contributions program.

Childcare

By Robyn WUTH, AAP

AUSTRALIA’S childcare workers are on "ick" alert as they scramble to rebuild public trust after the sector was engulfed in sexual abuse scandals and widespread safety concerns.

A Senate inquiry into the troubled industry moved to Brisbane on Monday as it probes quality and safety in the nation's early childhood education and care system.

It was sparked by calls for reform after a series of highprofile scandals, including allegations of sexual abuse, unnecessary restraints and other failings in the sector.

Goodstart Early Learning chief executive Ros Baxter, representing a non-profit group that is the nation's largest operator of childcare centres, said the organisation's staff were urged to report any uncomfortable incidents.

"Nothing is more critical than children's safety," Dr Baxter told the inquiry.

"I have met several times over the last year with every one of our centre directors in every centre across the country... we talk about anything that gives you an ick.

"Anything that gives you a moment of something just

not looking right, you will absolutely be supported through that process" of reporting, she said.

The sector has been battling child-safety concerns since it was revealed a Queensland worker sexually abused dozens of girls at childcare centres in one of the worst paedophile cases in the nation's history.

Ashley Paul Griffith was sentenced to life in prison in November 2024 after admitting to more than 300 offences at daycare facilities in Queensland.

He is separately accused of abusing at least two dozen children in NSW and in Italy.

The distressing abuse scandal deepened after a second worker from the Affinity Education Group was charged with more than 70 sex offences in Victoria.

Joshua Dale Brown worked at 24 facilities between 2017 and 2025, including many run by Affinity.

"These are all very serious and troubling matters, and I want to express how profoundly sorry I am that something like this could occur to any child in our care," Affinity chief executive Glen Hurley told the inquiry.

"It is something that

should never have happened.

"We have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of child harm and will dismiss employees found to be in breach of this safeguard.

"On behalf of Affinity, I offer my sincere apology for the incidents that occurred at centres."

Affinity has since conducted a review to address safety concerns and implemented strict new childcare requirements, which have led to a reduction in reported incidents, he said.

CCTV has been installed and incident reporting simplified under a "see something, say something"

policy.

"Our full focus is on strengthening safety, quality, and oversight across our services," Mr Hurley said.

"The early indicators have been reassuringwe've witnessed reduced complaints, breaches, and a more stabilised workforce."

Affinity childcare centres recorded more than 1,700 regulatory breaches between 2021 and 2024, the inquiry heard.

"We treat all of these safety incidents and breaches extremely seriously," Mr Hurley said.

By Nick WILSON, AAP

GEN Z is leading a new wave of city dwellers eyeing a move to the regions, with almost half considering swapping skyscrapers for the great outdoors.

Australians aged 18 to 29 have overtaken millennials (aged 30 to 45) as the cohort most eager to leave the city for the regions, with 49 percent considering the move, Regional Australia Institute research shows.

More than 5.3 million Australians - about 37 percent of metropolitan residents - say they would consider making the shift.

For generation Z, the financial pull is particularly strong, with more than half (52 percent) citing cheaper living costs as a key driver and 50 percent pointing to more affordable housing.

At 28, economic development worker Mikaela Carroll is part of that shift.

After finishing university at the onset of the COVID-19 lockdowns, she and her

partner Ryan left Brisbane in a van with plans to stop briefly in Bunbury, a regional town south of Perth.

"We ended up staying there for five years," she told AAP.

"We really loved it."

Originally planning to "top up the bank accounts" somewhere more affordable for a few months, the couple found themselves with good jobs and a lifestyle their city-based friends couldn't afford.

The pair have since relocated to Launceston in Tasmania, where they retain the benefits of regional life while being closer to family.

"Living down here, we were able to buy a place that's only a six-minute drive to work," Ms Carroll said.

"That, in itself, is a huge, huge challenge in metropolitan areas."

While perceptions are shifting, it remains to be seen how many young city dwellers will act on their intentions.

Only 23 percent of gen Z Australians considering

the move said they would do so in the next two years, climbing to 37 percent in the next five years.

Fear of isolation remains the biggest hurdle preventing young Australians from making the move, with 44 percent worried about being cut off from family and friends.

Ms Carroll admitted the distance had been trying, but said the benefits outweighed the downsides.

"I definitely feel like I've got better mental health than I did when I was living in Brisbane because I'm not constantly worrying about the end of my lease," she said.

While more Australians are leaving cities for the regions than the reverse, the think tank's Regional Movers Index shows it is not a one-way phenomenon.

Capital-to-region migration accounted for 11.5 percent of all major relocations in the September quarter, only a few points ahead of the 8.4 percent who moved the other way.

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Regional housing market booms, outpacing capital cities

By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP

WITH the prospect of paying at least $1 million for a home in many of Australia's capital cities, buyers are once again looking to escape to the country.

The regional property market surged in the three months to January, outpacing the capitals, according to

figures from data firm Cotality released on Wednesday.

Dwelling values rose 3.2 percent for the quarter in regional areas, compared to 2.1 percent in the combined capitals.

Competitive market conditions in the cities, poor housing affordability and a boost in internal migration sent buyers packing for the country long after COVID-19

lockdowns sparked the initial migration trend.

"With capital city prices still near record highs and stock levels tight, many households are once again looking to regional Australia for greater value and livability," the firm's head of research Gerard Burg said.

"We're seeing momentum build across a wide range of regional markets, from inland

hubs to coastal centres and mining-adjacent regions.

"This reflects a renewed movement of people and capital into areas where buyers' budgets stretch further and competition for available homes is strong."

Sydney's median home value sat at $1.23 million in January, followed by Brisbane at $1.02 million, with Perth and Adelaide tipping over

$900,000, according to a PropTrack report released on 2 February.

Compared to those cities' prices, many of the fastest-growing regions can offer only modest housing affordability relief, if any.

Queensland's Sunshine Coast had a median value of more than $1.2 million in January, with weekly rents at $832, Cotality's data showed.

FED up farmers and families facing poor regional, rural and remote mobile services are being encouraged to “keep complaining”.

The latest report from the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) revealed an increase in complaints in NSW, with almost a quarter coming from regional areas.

A total of 4,285 complaints were made by

people in NSW, up four percent since the previous quarter.

"No phone or internet service” had the largest increase, up 32.2 percent to 608 complaints.

Other notable increases were observed for intermittent service or dropouts, up 25.9 percent; slow data speed, up 23.9 percent; and partially restricted service, up 21.3

percent.

Service and equipment fees observed the largest decline of 10.1 percent, down 1,463 complaints.

22.6 percent of complaints were from regional areas and 77.4 percent were from major cities.

Sarah Thompson from the NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee said the stats reflected what farmers

were saying.

“A lot of people are fairly fed up with complaining about this long-running issue, and it’s clear enough isn’t being done to fix the problem,” Mrs Thompson said.

“I agree with Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Cynthia Gebert when she says consumers don’t see phone and internet connectivity as optional anymore, these are vital not only for business and education but the basics of everyday life.

“We’re encouraging people who aren’t satisfied with their service or the resolutions from their providers to go to the TIO to try and get a better outcome and make sure the issues are reported on.”

In December 2025,

Geelong, a Victorian port city and hotspot for Melbourne escapees, had a median value of $771,298, with rents at $558.

The NSW Hunter region has long been one of the fastest-growing areas in Australia, with a median of $956,142 and rents at $698 in Newcastle-Maitland.

The market report showed Wagga Wagga, in southern NSW, experienced the highest growth in value at 8.1 percent for the quarter.

The median value in the regional city was $665,062 in January.

Regional Western Australia had the strongest growth among the states, with values rising 6.1 percent, up from 4.9 percent.

Albany, a coastal city on the state's southern tip, experienced a value hike of 7.7 percent, with a median value of $783,389.

Queensland and South Australia's markets also grew, while regional NSW and Victoria only shifted slightly.

Small local market declines were recorded in the Bowral, Mittagong and Bateman's Bay regions in southern NSW, and in Warrnambool on Victoria's Great Ocean Road.

A renewed focus on the regions is not good news for all locals, as low rental vacancy rates are met with rapidly increasing rents.

Regional rent growth was slightly above the capitals at 1.6 percent, compared to 1.4 percent.

Rents outside the cities have risen by almost 42 percent in the past five years, well ahead of wage growth at 17.5 percent.

NSW Farmers organised multiple regional and rural visits from the TIO, offering communities a chance to raise connectivity concerns and learn about services.

Attendees reported concerns about their ability to call emergency services, with many people citing previous failures, and that rural and regional Australians felt forgotten and tired of complaining, particularly since unreliable mobile connectivity had become a persistent issue since the 3G shutdown.

“The government’s Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation is a critical step toward better voice and data services,” Mrs Thompson said.

“Requiring that mobile coverage be reasonably available outdoors across the

country will improve safety and improve liveability for everyone, not just those who live in the capital cities.

“But there’s still a lot of work that needs to be done to make sure that providers are accountable to the UOMO and deliver what’s been promised.

“NSW Farmers continues to advocate that UOMO must be a complementary tool and not replace investment in improvements to the existing terrestrial network – we know a lot of farmers struggle daily with reliable and quality connection.

“So I think we need to keep being the proverbial squeaky wheel and keep complaining, but do it in a way that matters, and that’s to the TIO.”

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY PROFESSOR T

ABC TV, 8.30pm

“Truth and justice are not always compatible,” muses Professor Jasper Tempest (Ben Miller, pictured) after witnessing the process firsthand. Having spent some time on remand charged with attempted murder, the fastidious academic finally gets his day in court this week. As the trial progresses, Tempest must weigh whether to tell the truth and save himself, or lie and protect his former lover, DCI Christina Brand (Juliet Aubrey). The court proceedings unfold alongside investigation into the grisly death of a prison officer.

FRIDAY, February 27

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson visits a home orchard with unfamiliar fruits.

8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T must make a tough decision.

9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

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

10.20 Dog Park. (Ml, R)

10.45 ABC Late News.

11.00 Smother. (Mal, R)

12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

WEDNESDAY

TONIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

ABC TV, 8pm

The brainiacs behind quirky quiz show QI will be kicking themselves for not thinking of this format first: in a museum after dark, four comedians compete in a series of cheeky but clever challenges. Filmed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart, it’s hosted by Alex Lee (pictured) and even borrows QI stalwart Alan Davies for its inaugural episode. Each week’s winner will earn the honour of having their personal treasure placed on display at TMAG in perpetuity – be that an actual treasure or just a seriously strange object they’re keen to get out of their house. Zoë Coombs Marr, Tegan Higginbotham and Brett Blake join Davies to puzzle their way through Wednesday’s premiere.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo.

8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World. (Premiere)

9.25 Fly With Me. (PGal, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Sisi. (Return, Ma)

12.00 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+as, R)

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

3.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

THURSDAY THE

HOSPITAL: IN THE DEEP END

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Adam Dovile transforms a cluttered garage.

8.30 The Marlow Murder Club. (Mav) After a revered member of the sailing club is brutally bludgeoned to death, Judith, Becks and Suzie must navigate simmering grudges within the tight-knit community in a hunt for justice.

10.30 To Be Advised.

12.10 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.40 Dare Me. (MA15+asv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

Real patients, real medical emergencies and real emotions – this landmark medical series puts three famous faces in the thick of the public health system to witness firsthand what our frontline heroes face every day. Food journalist Matt Preston (pictured), tennis star Jelena Dokic and Hollywood actor Ruby Rose scrub in for a life-changing experience at St Vincent’s Hospitals in both Sydney and Melbourne. Each has a personal connection to public health, and viewers will see a new side to the stars as they observe specialists working in departments close to their own hearts. Honest, raw, vulnerable and surprisingly heart-warming, this excellent docuseries is essential viewing.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Sea Lion Surprise. (PGm)

8.30 MOVIE: Olympus Has Fallen. (2013, MA15+lv, R) A former agent must save the White House. Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman.

10.50 MOVIE: Lions For Lambs. (2007, Mlv, R)

12.35 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)

SATURDAY, February 28

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim gives up smoking.

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

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

7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2026. (Mln) Coverage of Australia’s largest celebration of diverse LGBTQIA+ communities from Sydney.

10.00 This England. (Ml, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. Cabinet discusses setting up a temporary hospital in East London.

10.55 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Neil And Martin’s Bon Voyage.

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

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

10.20 Highclere: The Real Downton Abbey. (PG, R) 11.15 Outlander. (MA15+av, R)

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

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.00 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31)

6am The Movie Show. 6.30 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 8.30 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 10.20 Radioactive. (2019, M) 12.20pm The Daughter. (2015, M) 2.10 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 3.55 Discovering Film. 4.45 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 6.30 My Girl. (1991) 8.30 Argo. (2012, M) 10.55

SUNDAY, March 1

6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (Final, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (Ml) Penny announces Farty Marty has to be put down.

9.00 This England. (Ml) Looks at Britain during COVID-19.

9.45 MOVIE: Shine. (1996, PGav, R) A pianist suffers a nervous breakdown. Geoffrey Rush.

11.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

1.40 Ragdoll. (MA15+av, R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.50pm Peppa Pig. 5.00 Thomas And Friends: Sodor Sings Together. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Meet The Hedgehogs. 9.30

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rome: Secrets From Above. (Premiere)

9.35 Ancient Empires. (MA15+av, R) Looks at the life of Julius Ceasar. 11.40 Powerful Women.

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

2.00 MOVIE: The Endangered Generation? (2022, PGal, R)

3.35 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

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Continued. (2018, PG) 7.35

8.25 My Girl. (1991) 10.25 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001, M) 12.05pm Argo. (2012, M) The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 4.25 The 6.25 Charade. (1963, Parasite. (2019, MA15+, Korean) 10.55 1.25am Petrol. (2022,

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A passenger tries negotiating a deal.

7.30 MOVIE: Fast X. (2023, Mv) A terrifying threat from the past surfaces and is determined to destroy everything and everyone Dom loves. Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez.

10.30 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017, MA15+v, R) A getaway driver gets involved in a doomed heist. Ansel Elgort.

12.50 Devils. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. (Return, PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Runaway Bride. (1999, PGls, R) 11.00 MOVIE: Something Borrowed. (2011, Mls, R) 1.05 Find My Beach House Australia. (PG, R)

Great Australian Detour. (R)

The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

(PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (PGl) Megan and Justin are on the hunt for a home. 8.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined by Sir Idris Elba, Martin Freeman, Erin Doherty, Wunmi Mosaku and singer-songwriter Olivia Dean. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGa, R) The team takes on a harassment case. 12.00 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol.

8.20 The Mystery Of The Lady In The Lake. (Mav) Takes a look at the murder of Shani Warren. 9.50 The Hunters: The Car Bomb And The Underworld War. (Madv, R) Takes a look at the murder of John Furlan. 11.20 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Madl, R) 12.20 Temple. (MA15+alv)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

Married At First Sight. (PGls)

60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

Hunting Bundy:

6.30 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t

MONDAY, March 2

6.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG)

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

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Other People’s Money. (Ml)

11.35 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R)

2.45 Greenland: Survival At The Edge. (R) 3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (Masv) Hen’s attempts at keeping her health issues private start to impact more than just her physical wellbeing.

10.15 Granny Killer: The Unsolved Murders. (Mav, R) Takes a look at John Wayne Glover.

11.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)

12.50 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

5.40pm

6.05

6.20

6.25

6am The Orator.

Continued. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.10 Charade. (1963, PG) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.05 Man Up. (2015, M) 11.40 Michael Collins. (1996, M) 2.10pm Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 3.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 5.40 Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 8.30 Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 11.05 The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 1.55am Late Programs. 5.55 The Movie Show.

TUESDAY, March 3

3.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R)

8.30 Insight. (Return)

9.30 Dateline. (Return)

10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Exit. (MA15+ads, R)

11.55 Syndrome E. (MA15+s, R) 1.55 Safe Home. (Mal, R) 2.50 Greenland: Survival At The Edge. (PG, R) 3.45 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

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

9.10 Doc. (Mav) After receiving tragic news, Jake refuses to give up on a beloved patient, landing himself in conflict with several Westside surgeons.

10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (MA15+al) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.10 St. Denis Medical. (PGals)

12.10 MOVIE: Taken Again. (2023, Mav, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

9.00 Epstein: Making Of A Monster. 10.00 9News Late.

10.30 Love Cheats. (Return, Ma)

6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Discovering Film. 7.25 Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 10.20 Eiffel. (2021, M, French) 12.20pm First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 2.10 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 4.10 Charade. (1963, PG) 6.10 Wings Of Desire. (1987, PG, German) 8.30 Memoirs Of A Geisha. (2005) 11.10 Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 1.25am Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 4.00 Late Programs.

Start your day with coffee and brekky from 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, and great hospitality all day. Open Tuesday to Sunday for good food, drinks, functions and live music. And the place to stay for work or holiday.

WEDNESDAY, March 4

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Diabolical: The Epstein Files. (R) 11.15 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 4.00 MOVIE: Murdoch Mysteries: Under The Dragon’s Tail. (2005, Mv) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum. 9.05 Destination Flavour: Singapore. 9.25 My Unique B&B. 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. 11.10 The Toy Hospital. (Premiere) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.

The Social Schism.

Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (Premiere)

Prisoner 951. (Premiere)

SBS World News Late. 11.00 Face To Face. (Return, Malv) 12.00 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Return, Mav) 1.50 Divided We Stand. (Mal, R) 3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Scandinavia 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 The 1% Club UK. (PGa)

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

9.30 Australia: Now And Then. (Mal, R) Hosted by Shane Jacobson.

10.30 Marching In. (Premiere, PG)

12.00 On The Inside: Collingwood’s 2025 Season.

1.00 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

9.00 Naked City: Hitmen. (Premiere, MA15+dlvv)

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mlv, R)

11.30 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)

Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30

THURSDAY,

March 5

(2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PG, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (Ml, R) 11.00 Creative Types. (Final, PGv, R) 11.30 QI. (M, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Ml, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (Final, R) 4.00 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

9.25

9.00 The

6am Sometimes

To Referendum. (R) 9.05

B&B.

Flavour:

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)

8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Return, Ma)

9.35 A Spy Among Friends.

10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 In Memoriam. (Madlv)

12.00 The Hollow. (Madlv, R)

2.05 Silent Road. (Mav, R)

4.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

Always Never. (2018, PG) 7.40 Discovering Film. 8.35 Wings Of Desire. (1987, PG, German) 10.55 Moving. (1993, M, Japanese) 1.10pm Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 4.05 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 5.55 Tokyo Story. (1953, PG, Japanese) 8.30 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 10.50 Arcadia. (2024) 12.45am Memoirs Of A Geisha. (2005) 3.25 Late Programs. 5.40 The Movie Show. 6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 8.10 Tokyo Story. (1953, PG, Japanese) 10.40 The Longest Week. (2014, M) 12.15pm Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 Discovering Film. 4.00 Limelight. (1952, PG) 6.25 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House. (2017, PG) 8.30 Gravity. (2013, M) 10.15 Misery. (1990, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. Tane’s court date looms.

7.30 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Sydney v Carlton.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.00 Kick Ons. (Return) A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Tragic news spreads through town.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

(64)

I

GERMON, Noreen June

Known

thank our families, friends and the Gloucester community for their support during the loss of Jerry. For your cards, Facebook messages, flowers and those who attended the memorial service. It was greatly appreciated. Sincerely Bev.

News Of The Area OPINION

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

PUZZLES

On theCouch

DEAR Jasminda,

HOW do we agree on a movie as a family?

I'm so sick of scrolling through trying to locate a movie everyone will enjoy.

Heather P.

Dear

Heather,

You are right. Trying to find a movie that incorporates everyone's interests is a nightmare.

How is it possible, for example, to find a movie where a swashbuckling pirate discovers a solution to the climate crisis while finding/losing/finding a romantic partner, creating a genetic

mutation that saves humanity, meeting a loyal dog, and forming a singing/dancing troupe that wins the national titles.

That is what it would take to find a movie that satisfies everyone in my household.

We have such divergent tastes, that it is often easier to part ways (armed with our laptops) so we can be entertained without causing friction.

This solution does mean that we are not enjoying an activity as a family, but the alternative, where everyone talks over the top of each other, falls asleep, or keeps asking for plotline explanations, is hardly enjoyable either.

The only way around this conundrum is to give each family member a turn.

You could, for example, each select a movie you'd like to watch, and then have someone draw a movie selection out of a hat.

This can continue until all suggestions have been enjoyed

(or totally pulled apart), and then the process can start again.

Though not every family member will be happy, it may give you a chance to explore each family member's interests, and perhaps you will learn something new about them (a secret desire to sing in an acapella group, for example or, more worryingly, an obsession with serial killers).

There are so many movie options with streaming services, that we are spoiled for choice. I miss the days when we would go to the video shop to select a new release.

Others will no doubt remember when the only movie choice was whatever was on free-to-air.

Perhaps a family board game night could be a nice alternative to your dilemma.

Now, will it be Monopoly, Scrabble, The Game of Life, Uno or Rummy-O?

Ask the real estate expert...

LENGTH OF SETTLEMENT

“How much flexibility can I ask for in my settlement date?”

I’m assuming you haven’t exchanged contracts yet. Once you have, then the settlement process is usually the last hurdle you’ll have to jump before the keys to your new property are in your hand.

While you’re in the negotiation phase you’ll see that your Contract of Sale usually includes a clause clarifying the settlement as taking place 42 days (6 weeks) from exchange of Contracts. Settlement date must be mutually agreed so there is a certain amount of ‘wiggle room’and if you state from the outset that you need more/ less time, then you have the opportunity to reach a mutually agreed outcome before everything is set in stone. It’s important to understand that once contracts have been exchanged, should you ask for an extension, the vendor has the right to refuse. Regardless of the settlement time frame, you should have your finance in order, including all fees and duties; undertaken all necessary due diligence on the property; taken out home insurance; booked in your power connection, telephone connection, conducted your pre-settlement inspection and kept your legal representative and Agent up to date on your position.

Denise

New minimum age for e-bike usage

A MINIMUM age to ride an e-bike is being introduced in NSW.

Under current NSW Road Rules, a child of any age can ride an e-bike and bicycle riders of any age can carry passengers if the bike’s design allows.

motorbikes.

Under this standard, e-bikes must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and power assistance must cut out at 25km/h.

THE NSW Government has released a new guide to support councils to undertake land audits to identify vacant operational land that could be used to deliver affordable housing projects.

The “Council Led Affordable Housing on Operational Land Guide” released by the Office of Local Government

A review led by Transport for NSW will recommend a legal minimum age between 12 and 16 for riding an e-bike in NSW, while also considering whether children and teenagers have the skills, maturity and awareness of potential dangers required to safely carry passengers.

“As part of this review there will be consultation with experts in child

Caravan partners sought in disaster recovery push

THE NSW Government is establishing a panel of caravan suppliers to deliver “At-Home Caravan Programs” for disaster recovery.

Activated immediately after a disaster, the program will support the NSW Reconstruction Authority to provide temporary accommodation for residents who have lost their homes.

The program will see caravans placed on impacted residents’ private property, allowing them to remain close to their community while they rebuild or repair their home, or make longer-term relocation arrangements.

NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Recovery Ashlee Abbott said, “The AtHome Caravan Program

has proven to be a critical option for communities recovering from disasters, particularly in regional and rural areas.

“Establishing a dedicated panel of caravan suppliers means we can act faster, with confidence, and scale up temporary accommodation when future events occur.

“It also gives industry a clear pathway to support recovery efforts and play

development and road safety, including the NSW Office for Youth and Young People, and will listen directly to parents and young people before making a final decision on the appropriate age threshold,” the NSW Government said in a statement.

“Advice and findings will be provided to the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads by June, with the NSW Government to make a final decision on an age limit and passengers.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism

Yasmin Catley said, "Police see firsthand the consequences when powerful e-bikes are misused.

"By introducing sensible age settings and cracking down on illegal, high-powered bikes, we are helping police prevent dangerous behaviour before more people are seriously hurt.”

NSW to adopt EU Safety Standard

NSW will also adopt the European safety standard (EN15194) in March this year to ensure e-bikes operate like bicycles, and not

a direct role in helping communities through some of their toughest moments.”

The panel of caravan suppliers will be formed under the new Disaster Recovery Standing Panel, established in late 2025, and will support the rapid deployment of temporary accommodation following floods, bushfires, storms and other emergencies.

An open market Request for Quotation (RFQ) will identify capable caravan suppliers who can supply caravans quickly to help communities when

Councils supported to identify land for affordable housing

provides step-by-step guidance for councils on identifying and managing affordable housing sites utilising operational land –from planning through to construction and delivery.

“A major barrier to building more affordable housing is the high cost of acquiring well-located land,” the NSW Government said in a statement.

“Council owned sites such as former depots or unused facilities that are well serviced and close to public transport can be ideal locations for affordable housing to support lowincome households.”

The guide provides detail on delivery options available to councils to release and manage operational land for affordable housing and

how councils can form partnerships with entities such as government agencies and housing providers to maximise the impact of affordable housing.

It also includes case studies showcasing successful affordable housing projects led by councils to meet the needs of their communities.

For example, Shoalhaven

No power assistance is delivered at all after 6km/h if a rider is not pedalling the bike.

The standard also includes strict battery, electrical and firesafety requirements, as well as anti-tampering protections to prevent power and speed limits being altered.

A three-year transition period will apply.

From 1 March 2029, only e-bikes meeting the European standard will be road legal in NSW.

After a period of consultation, retailers will be required to clearly specify whether a bike meets the EU standard and is therefore road legal in NSW.

Minister for Transport John Graham said, “The adoption of the EU standard is part of building a safe and clear framework of rules around this popular form of transport.

“The community has spoken against souped-up motorbikes masquerading as e-bike and this new standard makes clear that e-bikes must perform like bicycles not motorbikes.”

temporary accommodation is needed most.

Suppliers appointed to the Disaster Recovery Standing Panel will form part of a pre-qualified network of suppliers, ready to be activated as required to support recovery needs and programs across NSW. The RFQ will run from Wednesday 18 February to Wednesday 18 March and can be accessed via the Buy NSW website. You must be a registered supplier to access the RFQ.

completion targets for 43 local government areas in Sydney, the IllawarraShoalhaven, the Lower Hunter and Central Coast, and a single housing target for regional NSW.

City Council transformed surplus council land in Bomaderry into 39 affordable housing units, while Lismore City Council is partnering with Landcom, Homes NSW and a community housing provider to construct 56 new affordable housing units.

The NSW Government has set five-year housing

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “All levels of government need to play their part to help address the housing shortage.

“The Minns Labor Government’s land audit has identified several sites that are no longer being used that can deliver thousands of new homes.

“With the support of this new guide, we’re asking councils to do the same.”

A plan for creativity in the regions

ARTS Mid North Coast (AMNC) has welcomed the NSW Government’s launch of “Heartland: A Plan for Regional NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries 2026–2035”, backed by a $5.2 million investment aimed at strengthening arts, culture and creative industries across regional NSW.

AMNC is the Regional Arts Development Organisation (RADO) and peak body for arts and creative industries across the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Nambucca Valley, Kempsey, Port MacquarieHastings and Mid Coast LGAs.

The “Heartland” plan identifies six strategic priorities designed to support growth, drive innovation and embed inclusion, and to address the unique opportunities and challenges faced by regional NSW:

• Champion regional First Nations arts and culture

• Strengthen regional partnerships and networks

• Unlock regional creative spaces

• Open doors to regional creative careers

• Showcase regional storytelling and creative innovation

• Amplify statewide arts and cultural tourism

According to Arts Mid North Coast, the plan opens new opportunities for collaboration through funding streams such as the Regional NSW Strategic Partnerships Program, which supports co-investment between councils, cultural organisations and community partners.

It also includes establishing a RADO

Sustainability Fund to restore funding levels and support the long-term stability of the RADO network.

Arts Mid North Coast

Executive Director Olivia Parker was part of the Regional Plan Working Group that worked alongside Create NSW to help shape the strategy.

“We are pleased to see the NSW Government’s

commitment to a dedicated strategy and funding for regional arts - a significant milestone,” said Ms Parker.

“The recognition of RADOs, such as Arts Mid North Coast, as essential to the regional arts ecosystem is especially encouraging.

“The work we do in supporting artists, delivering programs, and fostering partnerships will be key to

achieving the goals of this plan.”

Arts Mid North Coast sees this as a valuable opportunity to collaborate with Local Government, health, education, tourism, business and community sectors across the region.

“Extensive community consultation emphasised the important role of arts and culture in bringing people

together, keeping young people in our communities and supporting community wellbeing,” said Ms Parker.

“We also know that the Arts are a key economic driver, and by strengthening strategic partnerships, we can collectively enhance and expand cultural activity on the Mid North Coast.”

away in a hidden location in Stroud, this property offers the rare combination of being in town but on acreage. The spacious modern brick home with Colorbond

Gloucester Lady Bowlers

By Jennifer BURLEY

SUNDAY 15th saw the culmination of the Mixed Pairs Championship, after many weeks of competition two pair of players, Jill and Kevin Everett along with Joy Hurworth and Jeff Kellie, emerged to vie for the honor of being the 2026 winners.Fellow Bowlers who came to watch were not disappointed as after 16 ends the score was at 16/16 with two ends to go, the match was a real nail biter, but the pair of Joy and Jeff managed to snag 3,thus win by 19 to 16. Congratulations to Joy and Jeff.

Back to Wednesday 18th and the Point Score Trophy for the Lady Bowlers.

Suzanne Cross,Kerrie Green and Bev Germon 18/16 defeated Cheryl Tull, Paula Standen and Penny Gibson 12/7. Jenny Stevens, Debbie English,Lou Clements and Di Pritchard 12/8 defeated Jenny Stevens,Jill Everett,Jill Carson and Joy Hurworth 11/8. The point score winners were Bev Germon's team. The Semi Final of the Mixed Triples Championship was also played and completed on Thursday 19th, due to the heat :Joan Ridgeway, Neville Atkins and Tony Tersteeg defeated Jenny Burley,Vic Hebblewhite and Mark Groves 22/4 and the team of Julie and Steve Kriss and Bev Murray defeated Debbie Horner,Joe Pfeifer and Gary Moss 30/11, the final is to be played Sunday 22nd between Tony's team and Steve's.

Steele Wins Vets Golf

By Peter WILDBLOOD

IT WAS another fine and warm day for the Gloucester Veteran Golfers on Tuesday 17 February all of which was good for a narrow win for Chris Steele. The event, sponsored by Joy and Steve Hurworth, was an Individual Stroke with a putting competition held in conjunction. The winner was

By Carolyn DAVIES

THE Gloucester Golf Ladies played their final round of the 12-hole Summer Competition last Wednesday, 18 February. They played under bright blue skies with the temperature already rising by the 8am hit off with Dale Rabbett taking most advantage of the conditions.

The course was in great condition after some more rain earlier in the week, although the lush grass meant there was little run and balls were hard to find in the rough.

Dale Rabbett was back in the winning circle with a solid score of 24 points. Balls went to Julie Paterson, 23, and Gai Falla, 22. Moya Harris took home the last ball with 21 points and a favourable countback from two other players.

Carolyn Davies took out the prize for Nearest-

Challenging conditions Rabbett Wins Women's Golf

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16

Steve Macdonald and Mark Stone 33.

The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Trevor Sharp, 310 cm, in B grade, Paul Coote, 722 cm, in C grade and Dale Rabbett, 420 cm, for the women golfers.

At the shorter 6th and 15th holes just the

to-the-Pin at the 4th and 13th holes, with no one managing to hit the green on the 15th.

This Wednesday 23 February, the Gloucester Golf Ladies will have their

Beginners Day, playing a three-person Ambrose. Next Wednesday, 4 March, they will commence the formal 2026 season with an Individual Stableford.

three men’s grades were represented: Steve Burns, 192 cm, Bill Murray, 1151 cm, and John Herd, 307 cm.

The long drive trophies at the 8th and 17th holes were won by Ben Veitch, Rob Moore and Steve Benson.

The winner of the Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 20 February was Derek Wand 20.

Balls were won by Dave Mann, Wayne Maddalena

and Chris Steele 16, with Dave Mann picking up the last on offer at 15.

This coming Saturday 28 February, the Gloucester Club will be hosting a Four Person Ambrose sponsored by Kelly & Partners.

The following Saturday, 7 March there will be the March Monthly Medal, an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Arkwood Organic Recycling.

Chris Steele with a oneover-par net score of 73. He was followed by ball winers led by Ken Kelly 74, and followed by Arthur Poynting, Hugh Torode and Carolyn Davies 75, with the last two trophy balls going to Colin Clarke and Tony Burtnet, 76.

The top putter of the day was, once again, Carolyn Davies with 27 putts.

No Veteran golfer hit the green in regulation at the 4th and 13th holes so the only Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy was won by Mark Stone at the 6th and 15th holes.

On Tuesday 24 February the Gloucester Vets were due to play an Individual Stableford sponsored by Anne Wand and next Tuesday 3 March Gloucester Auto Broke and Detailing will sponsor another Individual Stableford.

By Peter WILDBLOOD

THE Gloucester Golf course is recovering so well after the dry spell during December and January that, although the course looks good, the rough is tough and top scores difficult to manage.

This was duly reflected in the scores on Saturday 21 February when players found the rough off the fairways was thick and unresponsive with not a single player in a good sized field finished inside their handicap.

The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Avon Valley Concreting.

The winners across the three men’s grades were Steve Williams, Chris Steele and Paul Coote all with 35 points, a score matched by Anne Wand, the leading woman player.

Runners up in the corresponding events were Chris Murray 34, Mark Stone 33, Paul Griffiths 32, and Gai Falla 28. Balls were won by Anne Wand, Steve Williams, Chris Steele and Paul Coote 35, Chris Murray 34, and by Roy Crichton,

CONTINUED Page 15