NEW research indicates Manning River turtles are being recorded at pre-flood numbers, 12 months after one of the region’s worst floods on record.
Gloucester and its nearby waterways were battered in the floods of May 2025, with serious concerns held about the long-term effects on fish and animals living in the rivers, particularly on the endangered Manning River turtle.
Found only on the Mid North Coast, the turtle has been monitored in seven rivers over the past four years by the NSW
By John WATTS
An endangered Manning River Turtle being released into the Barrington River by Aussie Ark in February. Photo: Aussie Ark.
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Gloucester
Woolworths Information Centre
Better Flooring
Elders
Bucketts Building
Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Centre
Newsagent
Club Gloucester
Lovey's IGA
R & R Property
Gloucester Library
Gloucester Caravan Park
Hebbys Bakery
Yates & Twomey
Hannaford Stock & Land Real Estate
Barrington Barrington Shop
Have Your Say
Lyne MPs bid to redefine ‘woman’ and ‘man’
By Sue STEPHENSON
MEMBER for Lyne Alison Penfold has introduced a Private Member’s Bill to the Australian Parliament to amend the Sex Discrimination Act.
Ms Penfold wants to reinstate the Act’s 1984 definitions of a man and woman, which were based on biological sex, not self-identification.
In a statement, she said, “The Parliament has a responsibility to provide clear legal protections for women and girls in Australian law.
“This would ensure [that] where there is a conflict, biological sex prevails.”
The introduction of the Bill follows the landmark Federal Court ruling on 15 May in the long-running case of Giggle for Girls v Tickle.
In a unanimous decision, three judges ruled that the operators of Giggle v Girls discriminated against transgender woman Roxanne Tickle, by excluding her from the women-only app.
Equality Australia
Legal Director Heather Corkhill said the ruling was a win for both women and LGBTIQ+ people because it found that the concept of womanhood “is not to be understood by reference to any narrow
or rigid conception of femaleness.”
“For decades, Australian laws have recognised that a person’s legal sex is not limited to the sex they were assigned at birth – any other interpretation would deny the reality and existence of trans people,” she said.
Ms Penfold said the timing of her Bill is a “coincidence” as it had been on the parliament’s Notice Paper for more than seven weeks.
However, she said the Giggle for Girls case shows that “the current law created by the Gillard Labor Government in 2013 was not fit for purpose”.
“Every Australian deserves dignity, safety
BOUND TO HAPPEN
FROM Page 1
“I believe that the intersections of the Pacific Highway with Bucketts Way at Twelve Mile Hill and Medowie Road are of high priority,” said Mr Chirgwin at the time.
“Both intersections present a high risk of serious high-speed accidents.
“From a few hundred metres north of Bucketts Way to south of Medowie Road there are… entrances to a caravan park; the Bucketts Way intersection; the entrance and exit to a southbound rest area; the entrance, bypass and exit for a southbound heavy vehicle inspection facility; entrances and exits for a northbound rest area, with a facility to enter for southbound traffic;
and the Medowie Road intersection.
“With this number of conflicts, and given the traffic volumes, the potential for a serious crash is high.
“Also, there are usually traffic queues in Medowie Road and Bucketts Way, especially in holiday periods, and any impatience by drivers is highly likely to precipitate an accident.
“In my professional view, the risk of an accident is unacceptable.”
The accident on 15 May resulted in serious injury to two people.
“About 3.30pm on Friday 15 May 2026, emergency services were called to the intersection of Pacific Highway and the Bucketts Way, Twelve Mile Creek, following reports of a crash,” a
Police spokesperson told NOTA.
“Upon arrival, police were told four vehicles, including a Toyota SUV and a Ford van, had crashed.
“NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the driver of the Toyota - an 82-year-old woman - and the driver of the Ford - a 30-year-old woman - for serious injuries before they were both taken to John Hunter Hospital.
“The driver of the other two vehicles - a 42-year-old woman and a 23-year-old man - were uninjured.
“Inquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.”
Gloucester local Megan Benson is concerned that the proliferation of gravel quarries near the Bucketts
and respect but women and girls deserve certainty that sex-based protections in law mean something in practice –on the sporting field, in women’s only gyms, on women-only online apps and in women’s prisons and domestic violence shelters.
Way intersections and a proposed pumped hydro project at Stratford will make a bad situation even worse, and considers that both MidCoast and Port Stephens councils should make further representations to the NSW Government about the state of the intersection.
“Sex is biological and binary and should not be ambiguous.”
The Bill also includes protections for female services, spaces and activities.
A copy can be found at alisonpenfold.com.au/ protectingwomenandgirls.
“The intersection has passed its use by date and I believe that both councils should inform the Department of Planning that an equitable resolution and action plan for the Bucketts Way intersection to the Highway must be agreed to before there are any further development approvals,” Ms Benson said.
“Everybody but the Department of Planning and developers seem to appreciate how dangerous this intersection is.”
q Lyne MP Alison Penfold showing a copy of the Private Member’s Bill to her followers on social media.
q Vehicles queueing at the Bucketts Way/Pacific Highway intersection in early 2026.
Supporting the education of Afghan girls
By Marilyn SANDERSON
IT WAS a dark day for Afghan women and girls when the Taliban poured into Kabul on 15 August 2021, with universities and high schools quickly closed to females in the aftermath of the government overthrow.
More than 11,500 kilometres away, the unfolding scenes made a major impact on a group of friends in Gloucester.
Mayee Warren, a senior practitioner in the management of international criminal trials - whose career includes working for The International Criminal Court, the War Crimes Court for Bosnia-Herzegovina, and the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia - was one of those friends.
Mayee informed her friends of the work of Angela Ghayour - an Afghan educator who the BBC recognised as one of their Top 100 people for 2021 - in founding the Herat Online School for Afghan women and girls stripped of their right to an education by the Taliban.
The Gloucester friends,
including Dominique Jacobs and Pat Burrows, recognised the need and asked how they could help.
Mayee explained that one way to help was to fund a humanitarian visa (which cost US $500), so that a young woman could continue her studies abroad.
To raise the money, the group decided on a market stall selling local produce including fruit, vegetables, honey, flowers, eggs, pickles and preserves, all of which were donated.
“We hoped to raise $575. We raised $3000,” Dom Jacobs told NOTA.
“We were so excited and happy with our success that later, when we were in the coffee shop, we asked Mayee what else we could do.”
Mayee informed them that the school needed more online teachers.
Four years later, online teachers like Dom are still contributing, helping students improve their English skills using resources available from Cambridge.
The Herat Online School is an initiative of UK-registered charity Afghan Education
Action (AEA), which now incorporates the AEA International School formed in 2023.
Over 400 volunteer teachers and administrative staff around the world offer online classes with planned lessons and activities, taught in Persian, to around 820 students a day.
There are 84 subjects available via live or recorded lessons
For those students who seek admission to university or similar post secondary facilities, the school offers formal qualifications in English.
Dom described the students she has worked with as “brave, intelligent and resilient”.
“I don’t know how they still get up with hope in their heart,” she said.
“They get up and are thankful for what they do have.”
Lessons are delivered via encrypted apps on mobile phones, but inconsistent internet proves an ongoing challenge.
“And then there’s the danger,” Dom said.
“They have to be careful about what’s on their phone.
“But we can’t manage the danger. They have to.”
Student ‘M’ described her experience on the school’s website.
“The resurgence of the Taliban brought fear and uncertainty, casting a shadow over my dreams,” they said.
“It felt like everything I had hoped for was slipping away, leaving me feeling lost and hopeless.
“The weight of this despair was suffocating, and
it seemed impossible to find a way forward.
“In the midst of my darkest moments, some of my friends introduced me to the Herat Online School.
“Within its virtual walls, I found a community of likeminded individuals who shared similar experiences and struggles.
“It was a space where judgement was replaced with compassion and support.
“This newfound understanding lifted the weight off my shoulders and
allowed me to breathe.”
A fundraiser with a difference will be held on Saturday 30 May at the Uniting Church Hall in Cowper Street, Gloucester.
Three of Gloucester’s yoga teachers will guide participants through an alllevels flow.
This will be followed by a relaxed morning tea and an inspiring talk by Dom Jacobs. The cost is $35 with all proceeds going to Afghan Education Action.
Gloucester Masonic Lodge support Meals on Wheels Kitchen
By Wendy BUSWELL
GLOUCESTER Masonic Lodge
ran a Trivia Night on Saturday, 16 May to raise funds for the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group's new kitchen.
The Neighbourhood Group operates the Gloucester Meals on Wheels program and has long needed a dedicated kitchen to better support its efforts.
“Meals on Wheels is a vital program, providing both food and social connection
to people in our community,” said Ian Shaw, Director of Ceremonies at Gloucester Lodge.
Shaw was also responsible for creating the trivia questions.
“I really enjoyed putting the questions together,” he remarked.
“It was a varied set of questions from sport to arts and music; so everyone had a chance to answer something.”
The event was a tremendous success, raising over $16,000.
“Much of the funds came from auction items generously donated by local
businesses,” said Shaw.
“I’d also like to thank Peter Markey for serving as auctioneer on the night.”
District 44 Charities, the fundraising arm of the Masonic Lodges in the Manning Valley, donated $5,000, which was matched by Masonicare, the charitable arm of the Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT.
“Gloucester is a wonderful community, and people are always willing to support meaningful causes.
“You never know when you might need the support of Meals on Wheels yourself,” Shaw explained.
q The initial market stall fundraiser.
q Funds raised at the trivia night being presented.
Flood funding closing soon
SMALL businesses and nonprofits who have already successfully applied for the NSW Government’s initial $25,000 flood recovery grant have until 5 June to lodge additional claims.
MidCoast Council Mayor Claire Pontin urged business owners and notfor-profits impacted by the May 2025 floods to lodge their applications before
it’s too late.
Last month Premier Chris Minns and Minister Janelle Saffin announced an increased grant of an additional $25,000 for businesses and organisations directly impacted by the May 2025 floods.
“These applications can be time consuming so it is very important you don’t
leave it to the last minute or you could miss out,” she said.
“Council campaigned vigorously for the community to receive these grants so we want to see everyone who qualifies get the help they need and deserve.”
The NSW Government’s $25,000 Recovery Grant for Small Businesses and Non-
Profit Organisations aims to help with the clean up and restoration costs for those impacted by the May 2025 flood event. For more information contact the Service NSW Business Bureau on 13 77 88 or book a call at www.service.nsw.gov.au/ business.
Applications close 5 June 2026.
CWA branches debate record number of motions
By Pauline CAIN
THE COUNTRY Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW held its 104th annual State Conference in Forster 3 - 7 May, hosted by the Mid North Coast Group at Club Forster.
The conference was attended by over 600 delegates and observers.
They spent four days debating a record number of more than 50 policy and six urgency motions from branches across the state.
Tanya Jolly, president of the CWA of NSW, said the urgency motions that come before the conference each year reflect issues of immediate and high concern to members and their communities.
This year, vulnerabilities around fuel security were front of mind.
“The announcement by the Federal Government this week that the budget will include a $10 billion funding package aimed at increasing Australia's fuel stockpiles is certainly welcome and a step in the right direction when it comes to questions of fuel security,” she said.
“But it’s imperative now that we maintain this momentum, and the CWA of NSW will be doing all it can to keep our regulators firmly focused on this issue.”
Ms Jolly said it was also gratifying to see the urgency motion on maintaining critical roads over the Great Dividing Range pass
unanimously, and the motion related to opposition to compulsory land acquisition for the likes of roads and pipelines.
“Critical road links between the coast and western NSW, like the Waterfall Way, Oxley Highway and Great Western Highway, have been closed or seriously impacted recently, and in the case of the Great Western Highway across the Blue Mountains, that closure appears to be long-term.
“It not only impacts NSW residents’ ability to travel across their state and get where they need to go, it has severe economic impacts on the communities in those areas.
“When these major roads
are closed, too, the bypasses that are put in place often have to be on secondary roads that aren’t designed to withstand high volumes of
traffic, causing major damage and compromising the safety of motorists.”
In line with CWA current Medical Research Project
focus, the association also presented $45,000 to Pankind Australia, to assist with pancreatic cancer research.
q Victoria Street, Taree after the May 2025 flood event.
q Delegates at this year's conference.
Magpies ‘swoop’ into top spot
THE results of the 12th national bird count are in, with the Australian Magpie taking out top spot.
The Aussie Bird Count was held last October and saw a record breaking five million birds counted over one week.
Organiser, Birdlife Australia, said 64,000 citizen scientists took part in the event.
Half of all surveys included a sighting of the iconic black-and-white magpie.
The Rainbow Lorikeet claimed second position on the list of most commonly spotted species, ahead of the native Noisy Miner, the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, and the Magpie-lark.
As in previous years, the Rainbow Lorikeet was the most abundant bird.
“Because rainbow lorikeets are more social, hanging out in flocks.. we see more of them,” said BirdLife Australia’s National Public Affairs advisor Sean Dooley.
“But the magpie is the
E: Shannon@HunterSL.com.au
bird we encounter most often.
“Every second person who did the Count last year added a magpie to their list.”
The 10 most commonly seen birds are: 1. Australian Magpie; 2. Rainbow Lorikeet; 3. Noisy Miner; 4. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo; 5. Magpie-lark; 6. Galah; 7. Red Wattlebird; 8. Crested Pigeon; 9. Welcome Swallow; and 10. Common Myna.
Sightings were recorded across the mainland and in the territories of Christmas
Island and Cocos Island, and sub-Antarctic Heard Island.
Around 70 percent, however, were conducted in built-up areas, providing a snapshot of the birds sharing increasingly urbanised environments.
Some birds outside the Top 10 were shown to be climbing the ranks.
The Australian White Ibis went from 23rd place in 2021, to 14th in 2025, while in NSW and Queensland the Australian Brush-turkey moved up the ladder.
“Birds respond to the changes we make to our environment,” Mr Dooley said.
“Everybody knows the bin-chicken, especially in Sydney and Brisbane where they’re doing well in the city.
“[They] have found ways to take advantage of urban growth.
“Sadly, the flipside is… smaller bush birds get pushed into decline as their habitats are destroyed.
“Adding native plants to your garden can offer
a lifeline to those other Australian native birds that we’re more worried about.”
“BirdLife Australia turns 125 this year, and it all started when a passionate community of people observed the birds around them and shared their sightings with others.
“That’s still the backbone of everything we do.”
The full results can be found on aussiebirdcount. org.au/.
The 2026 Aussie Bird Count will take place in Bird Week from 19–25 October. For more information, visit aussiebirdcount.org.au.
be
q Magpies are Australia’s mostseen bird according to the latest national count. Photo: Kim Duggan.
Jaguars roll in to town
By John WATTS
DRIVERS travelling along the Bucketts Way on the morning of 22 May may have passed a unique convoy of Jaguar cars. Every second year the Jaguar Drivers’ Club of Australia (JDCA) holds its Mountain Rally, and this time the route included stops in Dungog and Gloucester.
The rally began in Heatherbrae, stopping several times in the Upper Hunter before heading to Tamworth.
Held every second year, this year the rally involved 46 cars and 92 club members, who were treated to a delicious lunch in the Gloucester Rec Centre prepared by the local CWA
branch.
The cars taking part were of varying ages, with the oldest being a 1953 XK120 Jaguar owned by Peter Grant.
The XK120 is famous for being the fastest production car of its era.
“I’ve had this car for close to fifteen years and it’s got the famous XK motor that Sterling Moss used to win Le
Mons in,” said Peter.
“I mainly drive it at Jaguar rallies and the occasional weekend or Sunday drive.
“The car has been modernised with power steering and disc brakes.”
Clerk of the Course this year was Roger Liddle, who lives near Gloucester and is a past club vice-president.
“This year’s rally goes up Thunderbolts Way, and then onto Topdale Road towards Tamworth where we stay for two nights,” said Roger
before the event.
“We’ll do a day trip on the Saturday before returning through Gloucester on the Sunday.
“The idea of the event is to have some fun-to get out and enjoy driving your car on some nice roads.
“One interesting local fact is that one of the entrants who did this rally course in 2019 liked the Gloucester area so much that they moved here.”
The JDCA, which has been
operating for over 60 years, presently has nearly 700 passionate members, many with several Jaguars.
The inaugural Mountain Rally was staged in 1991.
“What had been envisaged initially as a weeklong drive in the countryside on secondary roads to give owners an excuse to get their special vehicles out of the garage, quickly became a fullon serious navigational rally,” the club shared.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330
q Peter and Marlene Grant with the 1953 XK120 Jaguar.
q Jaguars lined up outside the Gloucester Rec Centre.
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
SILENT WITNESS
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Crime doesn’t take a day off – not even for the nuptials of lovebirds Jack Hodgson and Nikki Alexander (David Caves and Emilia Fox, both pictured) in this two-part season 28 finale. However, the loved-up professionals are as dedicated to the job as they are each other. So as they investigate a mass shooting at a London restaurant, they also discuss their wedding plans, dress choices and Jack’s search for a best man. It’s a delicate dichotomy that demonstrates how the couple’s relationship serves as a vital sanctuary from the horrors they see at work every day.
FRIDAY, May 29
1.00 The Assembly. (R) 1.45 Bad Company. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Advice for the home gardener.
8.30 Shetland. (Mv) The search is on for Ian, as Calder and Tosh dig into Annie and Bergen’s relationship.
9.30 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.
10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R)
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
11.40 Love Me. (Mls, R)
1.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
SUNDAY SHARK!
NBN, 7pm
With this daring entry, reality TV has officially jumped the shark. Four-time Olympic gold medallist Ariarne Titmus (pictured), Gold Logie winners Scott Cam and Lynne McGranger, NRL legend Sam Thaiday, actor Matt Nable and influencer Tammy Hembrow are about to come faceto-face with one of the ocean’s greatest predators. With the aim of demystifying these oftenmisunderstood creatures, the celebrities will be guided by former Australian navy diver and shark attack survivor Paul de Gelder, alongside researcher and photographer Annie Guttridge. Together, they will attempt a series of escalating challenges, working towards their goal: swimming outside a cage with tiger sharks.
11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Land Wars. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains.
8.30 China With Ben Fogle.
9.50 Rock Legends. (PGs, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 The King. (MA15+av)
11.40 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R)
1.40 Syndrome E. (MA15+s, R)
3.35 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
TUESDAY SHAUN MICALLEF’S GOING FOR BROKE
Shaun Micallef (pictured) has uncovered several sobering truths behind the glitzy facade of the gambling industry in this insightful docuseries, but Tuesday’s conclusion ups the ante. Visiting a Wollongong family, the comedian finds out if the odds are already stacked against the next generation of Australians, for whom sports matches seem to go hand in hand with advertising and betting. He also spends a baffling afternoon with poker machine influencer Luca Kante and his fans, before heading to Parliament House in Canberra for a chat with independent senator and former Wallabies captain David Pocock about the Murphy Report and gambling For support, call Gambler’s Help (1800 858 858).
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) An academic uncovers a conspiracy while helping investigate a murder inside the Louvre. Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen. 11.00 My Reno Rules. (PG, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.
12.35 Quacks. (MA15+dns) John falls in love with a woman from the apothecary.
1.20 Harry’s Practice. (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 13. Cronulla Sharks v Manly Sea Eagles.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: Rambo III. (1988, Mlv, R) Rambo sets out to rescue his former commander. 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)
6.00 10 News+.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca
SATURDAY, May 30
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kath’s first husband moves back in.
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 Death In Paradise. (Mv) A star football player is found dead.
8.30 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+av) When six people are slaughtered by a gunman, Nikki and Jack must find the shooter.
10.15 Bergerac. (Mlv, R) Bergerac’s career is on the line as the case gets personal. 11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 The Scarecrows’ Wedding. 4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.05 Octonauts And Operation Deep Freeze. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGaw)
8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (Mn, R)
9.25 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)
10.20 The Wonders Of Europe. (Mv, R) 11.20 Snowpiercer. (Mv, R)
2.05 Matched. (PG, R)
3.50 My Unique B&B. (PG, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News. 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) Shane Jacobson buys a rundown country pub sight unseen and attempts to bring it back to life. 8.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000, Mav, R)
A successful Roman general seeks revenge after he is betrayed and his family is murdered by the emperor’s heir. Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen.
11.40 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv, R) 12.40 Devils. (MA15+av)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Dune. (2021, Mav, R) A young nobleman and his family accept stewardship over a dangerous planet. Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson.
10.30 MOVIE: Species. (1995, MA15+hlsv, R) Scientists chase a half-alien girl. Natasha Henstridge, Ben Kingsley.
12.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 Soccer. UEFA Champions League. Final. Paris Saint-Germain v Arsenal.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House. (R) A biker looks for a new sidekick.
7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (Return, PGl) The team helps a family of six that is bursting at the seams in a two-bedroom house.
9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mad, R) NSW Ambulance crews race to a call for a slashed
6am Morning Programs. 7.10 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 9.10 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 10.40 Haywire. (2011, M) 12.20pm Blackout Love. (2021, M, Italian) 2.10 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 3.50 Discovering Film. 4.40 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 6.15 Trinity Is Still My Name. (1971, PG) 8.30 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000,
SUNDAY, May 31
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly: Ian Thorpe. (Final, PGa)
8.15 Bad Company. (Final, Ml) Opening Night of Le Paysan... arrives.
8.40 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv) Bergerac must negotiate for his life and solve the murder.
9.40 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) A star football player is found dead.
10.40 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+av, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Movin’ To The Country. (R)
4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Hunt For The Last Nazis. (Malv)
9.00 Mysteries Of Stonehenge. (Mav, R)
10.50 Pan Am: Rise And Fall Of An Aviation Icon. (PG, R)
11.50 The Fastest Bicycle. (Ml)
1.40 Matched. (R)
3.25 U-96, The True Story Of Das Boot. (PGaln, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan 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, R) 8.10 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.10 How To Poison Your Husband. (Ma, R) Details the shocking crimes of Heather Mook. 10.45 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Mav, R)
12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R) 1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Shark! (Premiere, PGal)
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.40 9News Late.
10.10 The First 48: What About Me/Last Round. (Mal, R) 11.10 American Ripper. (Mav) 12.00 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
The Garden Gurus. (R)
Today Early News.
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, June 1
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
SBS World News.
7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)
8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (PG, R)
9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav)
12.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+s, R)
2.45 My Unique B&B. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 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 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Madls) 8.40 9-1-1. (Mav)
(R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30
6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 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 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. (MA15+av) 11.55 Divided We Stand. (Mal, R) 2.40 My Unique B&B. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am The Movie Show. 7.10 Notorious. (1946, PG) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.00 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, M) Noon 100 Yards. (2023, M, Mandarin) 2.05 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 3.35 Trinity Is Still My Name. (1971, PG) 5.50 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 7.40 Hope Springs. (2012, M) 9.30 Cats. (2019, PG) 11.35 Let Them All Talk. (2020, M) 1.40am Late Programs. 6am The Movie
(64)
Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (Ma) Hosted by Dr
Harry’s Practice. (R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6.30 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 8.15 Cats. (2019, PG) 10.15 Confessions Of Felix Krull. (2021, M, German) 12.25pm Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 2.00 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 4.00 Notorious. (1946, PG) 6.00 RabbitProof Fence. (2002, PG) 7.40 My Uncle Jens. (2025, M, Norwegian) 9.30 Victoria & Abdul. (2017) 11.35 Late Programs.
MADE FRESH, MADE DELICIOUS
Chargrilled steaks Fresh Fish Pub classics Chef’s specials WEEKDAY LUNCHES
(64)
$20 meals + $5 schooner WHAT’S ON
Wednesday - Trivia from 6.30pm Thursday - Meat Raffle & Joker Poker from 5.30pm Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also available BEHIND THE BAR
8 tap beers • Great wines • Cocktails ENTERTAINMENT
WEDNESDAY, June 3
The Audacity. (MA15+a)
SBS World News Late.
Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+av)
Golden Boy. (Mal, R)
Classified. (Mlv, R)
3.05 My Unique B&B. (R)
4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 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 Steven Universe. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.30 Adventure Time. 10.55 Late Programs.
THURSDAY,
June 4
6am My Uncle
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) Hamish McLachlan sits down with key football stars and personalities to reveal their stories. 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R) 12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
Harry’s Practice. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (Final, PG)
8.40 Saving Yellowstone. (Return, PG)
9.35 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Mals)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl)
12.10 De Gaulle. (Mv, R)
3.05 My Unique B&B. (R)
4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Jens. (2025, M, Norwegian) 7.50 Victoria & Abdul. (2017) 10.00 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) Noon Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.00 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 3.55 Cats. (2019, PG) 6.00 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 7.35 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 9.30 Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 11.45 Crash. (1996, MA15+) 1.35am November. (2017, MA15+, Estonian) 3.45 Late Programs. 6am Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 7.20 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 9.20 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 10.55 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 12.50pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.45 Victoria & Abdul. (2017) 4.50 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. (1968, PG) 7.30 An Unfinished Life. (2005, M) 9.30 Red Joan. (2018, M) 11.25 Beneath Hill 60. (2010, M) 1.40am Crash. (1996, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane lays down the law. 7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGadl, R) A look at badly behaved drivers. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec. 10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (M)
To Be Advised.
Brave New World. (MA15+asv)
Harry’s Practice. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
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I am aware that during meetings, staff members appearing via Zoom are more insightful and intellectually engaged. I don't understand the disparity. When they appear in person, they seem very different. Should I move all meetings to Zoom?
Kevin P.
Hi Kevin,
I remember the good old days of staff meetings.
The whole purpose of the Monday morning meeting was to act as a two-hour transition
News Of The Area OPINION
between a weekend full of cheese platters and sparkling wine and languid hours in the outdoor spa, to the cold hard slap of 30 people in ill-fitting polyester, non-ergonomic chairs, hands fused to keyboards, and seven monitoring reports due by 5pm.
Back then, everyone knew where they stood in a staff meeting, and a CEO knew how to manage them.
Staff members included the socially-awkward IT guy who told inappropriate jokes, the bored 20-something who was nursing a hangover, the woman who carried the same piece of paper around for five years - with no one really knowing how she came to be in the office - the chain-smoking supervisor agitated by flickering fluorescent lights, and so on.
It was a given as to who was going to offer purposeful responses and who was going to vague out and draw plans for a new outdoor table on the back of their agenda sheet.
Hence, the meeting could take place in a constructive, yet predictable manner.
Now, with meetings largely online, nothing is as it seems.
Most of the types listed above will have Chat GPT or its equivalent open, and they will be able to multiskill, planning a trip to conquer the Camino de Santiago while throwing in the occasional insight that makes them appear ready for a promotion.
You'll know though, Kevin, it isn't that hard to work out.
If, for example, middlemanagement Roger has gone from saying things like “Get Mary to do it or I'm going on stress leave”, to “The current process is causing delays because approvals are duplicated across two teams. I think we should centralise signoff to one manager. There is a significant degree of operational and psychological pressure associated with this matter,” then it is clear your staff members have transitioned to using AI for anything
requiring a modicum of analysis. There is only one way around this.
You either need to accept that the average workforce is soon going to resemble a crew of postlobotomy Randle McMurphys (i.e. the guy from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest) or insist on inperson, device-free meetings, so workplaces recognise genuine strengths and diverse talents and reward real thoughts not fast fingers.
Dorin's Drawings
Kids Boot Camp 080
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Ask the real estate expert...
“Will a granny flat enhance or reduce my properties value”
In today’s market, a granny flat is increasingly seen as a major value-add, particularly as more buyers look for ways to bring extended families together under one property. Multi-generational living is becoming far more common, with families wanting space for ageing parents, adult children or r elatives, while still maintaining privacy and independence.
A well-designed granny flat offers the perfect balance. Whether attached to the home or built separately, the most important features are functionality, comfort and a private entrance. Fully self-contained accommodation is especially appealing, giving families flexibility for changing needs over time.
Beyond family living, granny flats also provide valuable extra space that can be used as guest accommodation, a teenager’s retreat, home office, studio or even rental accommodation. This versatility broadens a property’s appeal and can make it stand out strongly in the marketplace.
Buyers are increasingly prioritising properties that offer adaptable living arrangements, and a quality granny flat can future-proof a home for years to come. When thoughtfully planned and well presented, it’s no longer just an “extra building” - it’s a highly sought-after lifestyle feature that can significantly enhance both liveability and property appeal.
Denise
Turtle and fish numbers bouncing back
FROM Page 1 Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
A study released last week by DCCEEW found that while the turtle remains endangered, its population has persisted in the Barnard River, upper Barrington River and upper Gloucester River post-flooding.
However, it stated that turtles may have been displaced further down the river system.
“While (flood) recovery is ongoing, we’re starting to see some encouraging signs - particularly when it comes to the health of the river itself,” said Mitchell Isaacs, Executive Director of Water Planning and Knowledge at DCCEEW.
“We’re now seeing the endangered Manning River turtle show up back in sites where they were prior to the floods, in good numbers.”
Underwater video surveys used to observe
the turtles as part of the Manning River Results Survey also captured valuable information on fish communities.
Following the May 2025 flood, several native fish species that rely on estuaries and lowland rivers for spawning have also shown a boost in young fish populations, with large numbers of juvenile Australian bass, freshwater herring and freshwater mullet being detected.
“Fish populations are also recovering well,
with some species even booming,” Mr Isaacs said.
“Taken together, the turtle and fish results show that despite the flood damage, the Manning River system is resilient.
“We want to continue monitoring this important catchment to ensure we can track how things fare during future droughts and floods.
“When we support healthy river habitats through environmental flows, native species can recover from disaster
and even start to thrive.”
In February Aussie Ark conducted a wild release of 21 endangered Manning River Turtles into the Barrington River, with eight turtles fitted with VHF transmitters for ongoing monitoring.
The release was delivered in collaboration with Western Sydney University's Professor Ricky Spencer and DCCEEW, with all turtles bred in the Conservation Ark facility in Somersby NSW.
Private landholders’ key role in the future of koalas
By John WATTS
THE Koala Friendly Carbon Initiative is keen to hear from local landholders interested in having koala habitat trees planted on their properties.
The initiative is a collaboration between the World Wide Fund for Nature Australia (WWF-Australia) and carbon farming service provider, Climate Friendly, supported by the NSW Government and HP Inc.
This first-of-its-kind carbon farming program aims to regenerate 10,000 hectares of koala habitat across eastern Australia over the next decade.
So far the program has seen 177,800 trees being planted across 135 hectares on several private properties in northern NSW.
“Koala Friendly Carbon is one of the highest integrity carbon initiatives the world has seen,” said Tanya Pritchard, Senior Manager at WWF-Australia.
“We believe that the market will pay a
premium for a quality product.”
Landholders Steve Posselt and Lyn Thomson were delighted after their 31 hectare former cane farm near Woodburn was recently planted with 35,000 trees designed to encourage local biodiversity.
“I’m really pleased that we did it,” said Mr Posselt.
“It’s great to be able to sit back and watch the ecosystem developing, and we get paid in carbon credits.”
Australian Carbon Credits are a Federal Government initiative whereby eligible landowners can be paid for taking action to abate carbon emissions, such as tree planting, installing more energy efficient equipment, improving waste and landfill methods, improving carbon in soil and recycling and reusing animal waste.
So far the tree plantings through the WWF scheme have been concentrated in the north coast area
of NSW, however the initiative is keen to look further afield to places such as Gloucester for large scale tree planting opportunities.
“We know that koalas are present in the Gloucester area, and many local landholders are already doing a lot to care for their land,” said Ms Pritchard.
“WWF would like to hear from property owners interested in planting trees for koalas through the Koala Friendly Carbon Initiative.
“These plantings can help restore habitat while also supporting healthier soils, shelter for stock, and long-term resilience of farming landscapes.”
There are regular sightings of koalas in the countryside near Gloucester.
Over the past few years the Gloucester Environment Group (GEG), with the assistance of MidCoast Council, has planted thousands of koala friendly trees and plants on private land in an effort to connect areas of native vegetation and
Pengelly photographs the natural world
By Wendy BUSWELL
ROGER Pengelly’s new exhibition, “My Father’s World” at the Gloucester Gallery, highlights the unique beauty of the natural world.
Pengelly does not view himself as a photographer but rather as an artist who uses photography as a medium to create art.
"There are stories in the natural environment; stories of flood and fire, growth, and of water, land and sky,” he said.
“The land invites me to explore and study its intricacies.”
An important influence on
Pengelly is American landscape photographer Ansell Adam.
Adams is widely regarded as the father of landscape photography and is especially noted for his technical excellence in developing photographs.
“I include several Ansel Adams quotes in the exhibition because his philosophical approach to photography resonates with me,”
Mr Pengelly said.
Continuing in this tradition, like Adams, Pengelly takes time with his shots.
Rather than adopting a rapidfire approach, taking thousands of photographs, and simply hoping that one will be enough, Pengelly
plans his shots after exploring how the subject responds to light, temperature, and angle, and considering its orientation to the sun at different times of day.
He argues that photographs must embed natural elements to provoke a visceral or imaginative response from viewers.
Many of Pengelly’s prints consist of ten or more individual photographs, each serving as a distinct element of the final composition.
“As I take each photograph, I plan the final print,” he said.
“In musical terms, each negative is the score, and the final print is the performance.”
sustain koalas.
“Over the past few years our KoalaWays program has planted approximately 8000 seedlings,” said GEG president Tibor Kovats.
“This may seem a small number of plants compared to what is needed, but each planting leads to a better understanding of how to balance biodiversity and agriculture practices in the Gloucester area.
“Landholders can contact GEG via gloucester. environment.group@ gmail.com, our website or Facebook page.”
Koala conservation projects are also progressing on Stateowned land, with
Despite his careful planning, Pengelly explains there are times when you must be present because the environment is rapidly changing.
“You have to concentrate and be very focused in moments such as these: always accept the chance when it comes along.”
Pengelly also notes that there are dangers in photographing the natural world.
As he acknowledges, “there is no sense in getting a great wave shot at the beach if you are swept away by a rogue wave”.
‘My Father’s World’ is on display at the Gloucester Gallery until 14 June 2026.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe visiting Coffs Harbour recently to advance plans for the Great Koala National Park, designed to protect a critical koala population and other threatened species.
“The Great Koala National Park is a landmark investment in the Mid North Coast, securing our unique environment while driving new local jobs and economic opportunities for our communities,” said Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin, who accompanied Ms Sharpe. To learn more about the WWF initiative, contact TPritchard@wwf. org.au.
q A recent Environment Group koala planting near Gloucester.
q Roger Pengelly. Photo: Wendy Buswell.
Gloucester Study Hub opening soon
If you’re kickstarting a degree, retraining into a new industry or simply taking the first small step towards study, get in touch with us. Supported
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Available 5am – Midnight for Registered TUC Gloucester students!
Full Field for Gloucester Mixed Classic Golf
By Pat BURROWS
SUNDAY 17 May, the Gloucester Women Golfers hosted their annual Mixed Classic at the Gloucester Golf Course. The good weather, combined with great course condition ensured a big field of entrants including players from Yamba, Kiama, Terrigal and Howlong as well
as more local clubs Taree, Forster Tuncurry, Hawks Nest, Stroud, Tallwoods and Wingham.
The competition was novelty form of Four Ball Stableford; based on teams of four with two women and two men in each team, the team’s score for each hole was the sum of the better woman’s and men’s Stableford scores.
The winning team with a score of 83 Stableford points was a combination of visiting and local players: Allan Jack, Branxton, John Foreman, Charlestown, Moya Harris. Gloucester and Julie Paterson, Gloucester. One point back on 82 were runners up, all from Taree: Chris Cordner, David Heagney, Kerry Stephen and Bronwyn Heagney.
Another three points away in third place were a team of Gloucester players made up of Mark Stone, Paul Griffiths, Karen Howarth and Dale Rabbett, 79.
Balls were won by four additional teams. First were Brian Clarke, Charlestown, Kieran Kelly, Viney Creek, Cindy Googh, Taree, and Jo Richardson, Forster Tuncurry,
Beginners Day at Gloucester Golf
By Peter WILDBLOOD
AT THE Gloucester Golf Club, last Saturday, 23 May, Level Electrical & Air sponsored a Four Person Ambrose as a Beginners Day to encourage new players to the game.
78; next was Mark Hicks, Ron Aldham, Janice Hicks and Krys Aldham from Tallwoods, 78; then cam Steve Prykaza, John Payne, Julie Prykaza and Theresa Payne, again from Tallwoods, 77; next was Doug Blanch, Peter Markey, Evelyn Blanch and Liane Markey, from Gloucester, 76; and finally a Gloucester team on a count back, Derek Wand,
Arthur Poynting, Anne Wand and Gai Falla., 75. Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Evelyn Blanch, Gai Falla both from Gloucester and by Tony Jay from Forster Tuncurry. At the 6th and 15th holes it was Pauline Barnard, Tony Jay and Peter Markey. The long drives at the 8th and 17th holes were won by Natalie Harvey, Barbara Green, Michael Stinson and Kieran Kelly.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies were won by D Saunders and C P Markey. The long drive trophies went to K Kelly, R Moore, P Markey and L J Hamilton.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 22 May was won by Graeme Marsh with 16 points. Balls
The winning team with a net score of 59 was B Rose, L Kellner, N Maguire and A Ribbons. The runners up were D Saunders, S Fox, P Garland, and B Veitch 60¾ and in third place were J Sweeney, W Bandy, P Grady and M Young 62½.
were won by Rob Moore and Wayne Maddalena 15, with Greg West 14, picking up the last on offer on a count back.
This next Saturday 30 May the Gloucester Course will be hosting an Individual Stableford and the following Saturday, 6 June, there will be the Monthly Medal an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Arkwood Organic Recycling.
Gloucester Lady Bowlers Report
By Jennifer BURLEY
RAIN had cleared to be replaced by sunshine and a stiff breeze for the Semi Final of the Thelma Bolton Pairs, each game was keenly contested with varing results.
Julie Kriss and Cheryl West, in a close game 16/12 defeated Suzanne Cross and Bev Germon 13/9. And Ruth Redman and Val Pritchard,20/17 in a run away
game defeated Jenny Burley and Di Pritchard 6/7.Thus the final will be between Cheryl and Julie, against Ruth and Val,should be a good game.
The numbers were down for the girls playing a Social game of Triples, Debbie English(swinger)
Jeanette Mumford and Bev Murray 19/15 defeated Debbie,Deb Horner and Penny Gibson 15/6. Point Score, the trophy of the day was won by Ruth and Val on 17,
congratulations girls. The draw for the Minor Singles Championship with play to start on June 3rd: Suzanne Cross versus Jeanette Mumford and Helen Banks versus Jill Carson. Deb Horner and Ruth Redman have a bye.
The Lady Bowlers are having a Beginners day on Friday June 26th, 9 for 9.30 enquires to Jenny Stevens or Pat Cox, bowls can be provided.
Tuggerah Lakes Caravan Club
By Bev MURRAY
WEDNESDAY last week Croquet
had a lovely morning with 16 members from the Tuggerah Lakes Caravan Club. They were visiting Gloucester for the week, staying in our Caravan Park. Members from our Gloucester Club were hosts and coaches for our visitors and President Ash had come along to extend a warm welcome to them.
The rain, after a short shower at the start, held off allowing a most enjoyable morning of croquet. After a few hits on a ball, we were straight into organised games. Our visitors displayed a keenness to participate and were quick to grasp the game showing some great ability with a nice touch of competitiveness thrown
in as well. Those assisting from our club were Pam Howard, Chris Sims, Al Minis, Bev Fagan and Bev Murray.
The morning finished with a shake of hands and all joining in the clubhouse for a muchdeserved morning tea. They were all so impressed with their visit. Fay, their organiser, mentioned they had had a lovely morning at Gloucester Creatives, a most enjoyable country trip taking in some of our local river crossings as well as a meal at one of our local clubs. The men tried some fly-fishing, and it seemed the ladies enjoyed some local shopping too. They indicated they’d like to return, so we look forward to that too.
Vets week of golf
By Peter WILDBLOOD
IT WAS a busy week at the Gloucester Golf Course Monday 22 May through Friday 22 May with the annual Gloucester Veteran Week of Golf taking the four day stage just setting aside the Wednesday for the Gloucester Women Golfers. The VWOG as it is colloquially named is run under the auspices of the NSW Veteran Golfers Association with VWPOGs run throughout the state each one attracting players from all over, so much so that our Gloucester Veterans confined to organising and stand aside from regular play for the week.
There are three Individual Stableford events on each of the Mondsay, Tuesday and Thursday with a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford for those intrepid enough to stay on for the final day after a Thursday night presentation, which catered or one hundred guests.
The main Individual event is for the NSW Veteran Golfers Association Trophy and the Women's Winner for 2026 was Sheryn Fuller 37 on a count back from Tina Wasilewicz 37 with Lynette Logan 36, in third spot. The Men's Winner was Stephen Palfrey 37 with Wayne Fuller 36, second and Allan Jack, 33, third.
The winners of the three-day 54-hole overall event were Tina Wasilewicz 111 for the women players and Stephen Palfrey 99 for the men players. Michelle Palfrey 105 and Lynette Logan 105 finished second and third for the women and Allan Jack 98 and Peter Olsen 95 on a count back did so for the blokes. The 54-hole scratch winners were Jan Kearsley and Wayne Fuller.
q Allan Jack, Joe Farrugia (Tournament Director), Tina Wasilewicz, Wayne Fuller, Sheryn Fuller, Michelle Palfrey, Lynette Logan and Stephen Palfrey.