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Celebrating Gloucester’s citizens on Australia Day
FROM Page 1
flags and a Welcome to Country, delivered by President of the Australia Day Committee, Luke Hester.
Murray Bowden delivered an address, which highlighted the reasons he was selected as the Gloucester Australia Day Ambassador.
Along with his parents, siblings, friends, teachers, music and the community, he acknowledged the importance of place; the rivers, mountains and beautiful valleys that surrounded him, molding him into the person he is today.
His advice to young people was clear.
“Do not listen to the naysayers who will try [to] tell you the world is worse off than when your parents and grandparents were young.
“The world is still an amazing place, and it is your oyster to discover.
“Remember life is coming from you, not [directed] at you.
“Every day you have a chance and a choice so choose wisely.
“The world is not as scary as the headlines would have you believe.
“Good people are common and the peaceful thread of humanity covers all races and [religions] wherever you go.
“I believe in the human spirit.
“A free country debates its history.
“It does not deny it.
“Our mission as Australians should be to defend and protect our country, its rights and its citizens so that we might learn from our
mistakes, of which there are many, but let’s not shirk away from making this place better than when we came into it.
“Australia is the most multicultural place in the world, and we should be proud of that,” he stated.
A free breakfast of bacon, eggs, sausages, juice, tea and coffee, drew the crowd and was cooked and served by the local service organisations Rotary, Lions, Quota and the Country Women’s Association.
During breakfast this year’s Australia Day Ambassador, Murray Bowden and his brother, Phil, performed the Gloucester Song cowritten by the Bowden Brothers and Mike McClellan.
It is their moving tribute to Gloucester, and they thanked McClellan whose words and music “completely captures the spirit of our home.”
The formal proceedings kicked off with an address by Gloucester High School captains Brodie Taylor and Blake Walker.
Winners of The Best Dressed Competition, judged by Brodie and Dylan, were Paula Standen, Mikita Partridge, Earl McLachlan, and Ray Fitzgerald.
The winning entry in the colouring competition, by Harriet Christensen, graced the delicious Australia Day Cake.
Ambassador Murray Bowden assisted with cutting the cake before it was shared with the attendees.
Shared dignity
By Marilyn SANDERSON
LAST year, the Gloucester Uniting Church Ladies Fellowship decided to support the charity Share the Dignity.
Founder Rochelle Courtney established Share the Dignity in 2015 after identifying a genuine need to provide vulnerable women with access to basic period products.
Many of these women live in shelters, experience homelessness, flee domestic violence or face financial hardship.
Reports have shown
that some women are forced to choose between buying food or purchasing expensive period products to manage their menstruation.
Rochelle Courtney describes herself as a selfconfessed graduate from the school of hard knocks.
“[hard times] is a powerful teacher.
“Its lessons can either close your heart or open it up.”
Barbara Reichert from the Gloucester Uniting Church Ladies Fellowship told News Of The Area, “We were pleased to donate 30 bags plus eight
bags of nappies which we dropped off at Bunnings in November 2025.”
Taking on the mission, members of the Gloucester Uniting Church congregation donated personal hygiene products and funds to purchase essential items for dignity bags.
Donors contributed items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, feminine hygiene products, soap, tissues, and bottles of shampoo and conditioner, placing them in clean handbags, backpacks or shopping bags.
Woolworths also supports the charity, with donation boxes placed in stores each March and August to collect items donated by customers.
Woolworths Supermarkets Community Program Manager Loretta Arrastia said, “There’s always a tremendous amount of passion for the Dignity Drives in our stores, with countless team members enthusiastically dressing in pink and hosting local events to rally support for Share the Dignity.”
Dignity Drive runs twice each year, in March and November.
Share the Dignity has expanded its support to include teenagers and
mums with babies. Rochelle’s compassion and determination continues to drive the charity’s work in supporting women most in need.
With the support of more than 6,000 volunteers, the charity has delivered more than 4-million packets of period products and over 800,000 handbags filled with essential items to women and girls across Australia.
Donors are encouraged to visit the charity’s website at sharethedignity. org.au for guidance on items suitable for Teenagers, Mums and Bubs or Bag Essentials or to make a donation.
Lovey's IGA
R & R Property
Gloucester Library
Gloucester Caravan Park
Hebbys Bakery
Yates & Twomey
Hannaford Stock & Land Real Estate Barrington Barrington Shop
q Harriet Christensen and Murray Bowden cut the cake. Photo: Marilyn Sanderson.
q President of the Australia Day Committee Luke Hester and Alison Penfold MP for Lyne.
Australia Day honours locals
By Sis HIGGINS
TWO MidCoast residents have been recognised in the national Australia Day honours list for their longstanding achievements as part of the Australia Day commemorations.
MidCoast Council acknowledged the achievements as part of its Australia Day commemorations, highlighting the dedication and impact of volunteers and community leaders across the region.
message on his Facebook page recognising their achievements.
“Congratulations to the MidCoast local legends recognised in today’s Australia Day honours list,” Cr Miller said.
Deputy Mayor Jeremy Miller publicly congratulated the recipients, sharing a
John Hahn received an Order of Australia
Medal (OAM) for service to surf lifesaving and to the community of Forster–Tuncurry.
Mr Hahn has been widely recognised for his commitment to water safety and his long-term involvement in supporting the local community through
surf lifesaving.
Deborah Brassey was also awarded an OAM for service to the community of Pacific Palms, acknowledging her dedication and ongoing contribution to community wellbeing and local initiatives.
Australia Day honours
recognise Australians who have demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to their communities, professions or causes.
For the MidCoast, the awards reflected the strength of local volunteering and the lasting impact individuals can have through years of dedication and service.
Barbies and tractors make for a classic Aussie Day: and NOTA win's community award
FROM Page 1
“We love bringing out our weekly newspaper full of community news and are humbled by the acknowledgement,” she said.
“We whole-heartedly thank the Gloucester community for their support over the past 12 months.
“After the closure of the longterm paper, it was important for us to fill the void and keep local news circulating within the Gloucester community.”
The Best Business Australia Day Display was awarded to the Community Op Shop.
The Local Project Award went to Cuppa and Conversation, a joint initiative involving Gloucester High School students and the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group.
Tyler Standen received the Acknowledgement of Achievement Award for his leadership and advocacy through Black Dog Ride, raising awareness and funds for mental health.
The Local Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Dylan Crossley, whose achievements to date reflect a strong commitment to community service and leadership.
The Gloucester Australia Day celebration was a fitting reminder of the community spirit that makes Australia feel like home.
Gloucester.
FRESH EYES, CLEARER VISION
q Old tractors and cars proudly joined the parade through the streets of
Photos: Rochelle Timony-Wright.
q News Of The Area General Manager Rochelle Timony-Wright accepts the award for Local Community Business of the Year.
Stinkhorns and snakes on Careys Peak bushwalk
By Tibor KOVATS
TWO YEARS ago, in January 2024, 15 bushwalkers from Gloucester Environment Group (GEG) hiked up to Careys Peak from Junction Pools in Barrington Tops National Park.
The cooler climate of The Tops was a welcome escape from Gloucester’s sweltering 41°C heat that day.
Fast forward to Sunday 18 January 2026, and despite forecasts for heavy rain and chilly temperatures, eight walkers pushed ahead and were rewarded with mild and occasionally wet weather - perfect for a 13 kilometre trek.
Travel time from Gloucester to Junction Pools is roughly two hours.
Junction Pools is close to the origin of the Barrington River.
Before starting out, each participant made sure to use the boot wash station to help prevent the spread of Phytophthora, a destructive mould responsible for plant dieback.
The Aeroplane Hill track presented the initial challenge en route to Careys Peak.
This hill, 1,531m above sea level (ASL) is known for an RAAF Mosquito fighter bomber crash on April 16, 1945, which tragically claimed two lives.
A topic that frequently comes up about Barrington Tops is Scotch Broom, an invasive plant species.
It has so overtaken the high country that even wallabies struggle to move through its dense undergrowth.
Fortunately, Nationals Parks staff and volunteer groups are working hard to clear Scotch Broom from popular tracks and areas.
Two years ago, we encountered three black and brown snakes along the trail.
This time, the sightings included two pairs of copperheads.
It’s always interesting to note how some hikers are drawn to snakes, while others keep their distance.
Thankfully, the Snake Bite Kit stayed unused.
After climbing Aeroplane Hill and tackling another, shorter ascent, the path flattened with snow grass beneath our steps and snow gums, mountain gums, and pepperbush lining the sides.
Along the way, we spotted the distinctive Stinkhorn fungus - attractive but notable for its strong smell.
An hour into the hike, we arrived at the beautiful Black Swamp, a natural wetland dominated by sedges, filled with water and featuring a pleasant campground.
Continuing, we passed an old emergency hut still standing.
Throughout The Tops, you’ll find a few rustic timber and corrugated iron huts built between the 1930s and 1960s by bushwalking clubs to serve as refuge during winter snowstorms.
Lunch was enjoyed at Careys Peak (1,544m ASL).
Unlike the breathtaking views of 2024, this year offered only a whiteout.
During our meal, we learned about the history of Trig Stations in NSW.
The Trig at Careys Peak is one of many preserved for historical reasons, although GPS now surpasses their original function.
Rain began soon after our return journey to Junction Pools; not torrential, but persistent enough to drench anyone who didn’t come prepared.
A highlight on the way back was appreciating the vast expanse of Edwards Swamp.
These high-altitude wetlands feed several rivers spreading out from Barrington Tops.
Once back at our cars at Junction Pools, walkers enjoyed snacks and hot drinksthough, swimming wasn’t on the agenda.
GEG encourages everyone to experience our National Parks and the reserves set aside for public enjoyment.
New members are welcome. Contact gloucester.environment.group@ gmail.com.
A plethora of courses on offer at Gloucester U3A
By Wendy BUSWELL
GLOUCESTER University of the Third Age (U3A) will launch its first semester for the year on 2 February, offering residents a wide range of learning, fitness and social activities designed to keep minds active.
With 36 classes available, participants can choose from everything from tai chi and pickleball to discussion groups, creative workshops and monthly talks led by local experts.
Jenny Jensen, Program Co-ordinator said, “We have so many classes on offer that we have had to increase the number of slots to four sessions each day.”
Classes run Monday through Thursday at various locations throughout Gloucester to accommodate the diverse range of activities.
“While the Senior Citizen Centre remains our primary venue, we’ve secured additional spaces around
town to accommodate the variety of sessions available,” Jenny explained.
“We have a few new classes starting this year, such as line dancing.”
One of U3A's biggest successes has been Pickleball.
Pickleball began in 2024 with five players and now offers five weekly sessions, reflecting growing interest.
“For anyone interested in trying pickleball, we’ve
dedicated Friday mornings specifically for beginners,” said Brad Moore, Pickleball Coordinator.
“We have also added Saturday mornings to the schedule.”
Alongside the regular weekly classes, the U3A has a series of monthly talks starting in February, the first on Green Energy.
“We’re always seeking local experts willing to share
their knowledge with our community,” Jenny said.
“If you have expertise and an idea for a talk, we’d love to hear from you.”
When asked about U3A’s popularity in Gloucester, currently there are over 230 members, Jenny explained that participation “is a wonderful way to connect with yourself and build meaningful relationships with others.”
“I’ve witnessed the pure joy on members’ faces when they master something completely new,” she said.
There are also the added benefits of connecting to other members of the community.
“Many members plan their week around their U3A commitments”.
Newcomers to U3A can
sample up to two sessions before committing to membership, making it easy to explore what the program offers.
For details, visit the Gloucester U3A website or pick up a hardcopy enrolment form at McRaes Fashion Centre.
q Pickleball players Robyn, Belle, Hildegard, Nerida, Lorna and Ray. Photo: Sue Moore
q U3A’s Ukulele group. Photo: Wendy Buswell
q Members of the Gloucester Environment Group on their hike to Careys Peak on 18 January. Photos: supplied.
q The distinctive but smelly Stinkhorn fungus. Photo: supplied.
By Andrew STAFFORD/ AAP
AN AUSTRALIAN rock legend has spoken of the legacy of a fallen comrade who has been posthumously awarded Australia Day honours.
Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst - who wrote or co-wrote many of the band's biggest hits - knew he was to receive the gong before his death earlier this week after battling pancreatic cancer for almost three years.
Hirst has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the performing arts through music.
In a written statement, Jimmy Barnes told AAP Hirst was "the heartbeat that brought the whole sound (of
the band) together".
"My early thoughts of Midnight Oil are made up of a mix of confrontation and harmony," he said.
"Peter (Garrett), the frontman, stormed around the stage, so menacing that when he moved to the music, I was almost looking for a way to protect myself against the onslaught.
"Their whole stage presence was so untamed that I felt uncomfortable watching them from front of house, but there was also incredible harmony and melody."
Once he got past the initial shock and awe, Barnes noticed the driving force at the back, saying Hirst was like no one he had seen before or since.
"At the back of the stage there was a drum kit that, when it wasn't being drowned in beer, was being battered into submission by a man who appeared to be more of a long-distance
runner than a musician.
"He was directing the whole band. He didn't just play drums, he played the songs.
"Each fill was as important to the song as the chorus. Each kick drum was a place on which the band could hang a new passage.
"The Australian music community will sadly miss this amazing man."
Another Australian music veteran, GANGgajang's Mark Callaghan - whose band was best known for the hit Sounds of Then - said Hirst was fully deserving of the honour.
"His ability to hit the nail on the head with a song, in terms of getting to the heart of the matter, was extraordinary," he said.
"Songs like Beds Are Burning will live forever because they advanced not just Australian songwriting, but a much broader context of Australian cultural and political life."
By Kat WONG
EVERYTHING Kasey
Chambers and Shane Nicholson touch turns to gold - even a divorce.
The decorated country music collaborators and former lovers had not written a song together since they separated in 2013.
But on Saturday night, their reunion ballad The Divorce Song won song of the year and single of the year at the 2026 Country Music Awards of Australia, bringing their total career Golden Guitars to more than 40 between them.
"I don't think we thought we'd be standing up here together again," Chambers told the Tamworth ceremony.
"I want to thank Shane for this song. You are still one of my favourite singer-songwriters in the entire world - you weren't for a few years there, but you're back.
"We hadn't written a song together since the divorce and it's really special you took a chance on me."
Chambers and Nicholson married in 2005 and have two children together.
In 2008, Chambers released her first collaboration album with her then-husband. It debuted at number one, was certified platinum, and won the couple five Golden Guitars at the 2009 awards show.
Her second collaboration with
Nicholson in 2012 won the ARIA Award for best country album.
In some ways, the birth of The Divorce Song was easy.
"The writing of this song we did via text message, so we didn't tempt fate," Nicholson said.
"It seriously took us an hour, but in reality it took us probably close to 10 years of living, learning and growing to write this song."
The couple have continued to co-parent and maintain that they "do divorce pretty good".
Chambers' album
Backbone also won alt country album of the year at Australia's peak country music awards.
Though she was the
most nominated artist at Saturday's Golden Guitars - with nominations in 13 categories - country-rock duo The Wolfe Brothers swept the awards,
winning five Golden Guitars including for album of the year. AAP travelled with the assistance of Tamworth Country Music Festival.
q The late Rob Hirst has been recognised for significant service to the performing arts through music. (James Gourley/AAP PHOTOS)
q Shane Nicholson and Kasey Chambers' The Divorce Song won song of the year and single of the year. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)
Astronaut and runner win nation’s highest honours
By Zac DE SILVA/AAP
AS A little girl, Katherine Bennell-Pegg would lie on the dry grass in her backyard, gazing up at the stars and dreaming about reaching them one day.
While she's yet to float in space, the now-41-year-old is closer than most others could ever hope for.
The first Australian astronaut to train under their own flag, Ms Bennell-Pegg has been awarded one of the nation's highest honoursAustralian of the Year.
The trailblazing space scientist said she was inspired by Paul ScullyPower and Andy Thomas - astronauts who grew up in Australia but travelled to
space as American citizens in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.
"When I received my blue flight suit, and right there, bright on the left shoulder was the Australian flag, it was quite emotional, because it marked something so much greater than myself," she said during her acceptance speech at a ceremony in Canberra.
"It said that the door has
opened for Australia to take our place at the forefront of human endeavour."
Ms Bennell-Pegg said she hoped to use the award to inspire young people to chase their dreams.
"It gave me hope - hope that one day more Aussie flags on spacesuits will follow," she said.
Born in Sydney, Ms
Bennell-Pegg grew up on the city's northern beaches and studied aeronautical engineering and physics at Sydney University. She then studied two masters degrees in Europe and in 2021 was invited to undertake astronaut training with the European Space Agency.
In 2024, she became the first Australian woman to graduate from the program, and the first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag.
While she waits to be called up for space flight, the 41-year-old now calls Adelaide her home, where she volunteers with the West Beach Surf Life Saving club.
In December 2024, she was also appointed as an Air Force reservist.
Ms Bennell-Pegg takes over as Australian of the Year from AFL legend Neale Daniher, who received the honour in 2025, for his work raising well over $100 million for research into motor neurone disease.
Daniher, who suffers from MND himself, didn't attend the awards ceremony at Canberra's National Arboretum because he was too unwell to fly, his wife Jan said.
"We call MND the beast. He's struggled in the last couple of months," she told awards night host Leigh Sales.
"MND has taken away Neale's ability to move, talk, eat swallow and eventually
it will take away his ability to breathe," Ms Daniher said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the creation of the Neale Daniher MND Clinical Network, a government-funded program to help tackle the neurological condition.
The program will help more Australians access clinical trials, treatment and care, Mr Albanese announced.
"Neale, your courage and advocacy has brought hope to so many, and we will ensure your work continues to change lives," he said.
Awards for Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero were also handed out on Sunday night.
Former electricianturned-ultra-marathonrunner Nedd Brockmann took out the Young Australian category, recognised for running from Perth to Sydney to raise money for a homelessness charity.
Pioneering dementia researcher Henry Brodaty won Senior Australian of the Year for his work identifying cost-effective, targeted interventions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
The local hero award was given to Frank Mitchell, a Noongar man from Western Australia who has created more than 70 upskilling roles for Indigenous people in the construction and electrical industries.
Wolfe Brothers sweep Golden Guitars
By Kat WONG/AAP
THE Wolfe Brothers have swept Australia's peak country music awards, winning five Golden Guitars including the top gong for album of the year.
Australia's most decorated country duo were about to chase their American dream when they realised they couldn't call the US home.
The Wolfe Brothers' album Australian Made is a homage to the sunburnt country and the stories of its people, and on Saturday night, it helped the duo sweep the 2026 Country Music Awards of Australia.
Nick and Tom Wolfe won five of the eight Golden Guitar awards they were nominated for including the top gong for album of the year, contemporary album of the year, duo of the year, vocal collaboration of the year, and heritage song of the year at the ceremony in Tamworth.
Asked about almost moving to America, the brothers said they had made the right choice.
"This is our home, this is where our family is, this is the country we care about," Tom
told reporters after their win.
"Australian country music is from here - it's from the heart, it's songs about farmers, battlers, real people and us.
"Right now there is this wonderful international country music boom ... the best thing for us is to do our modern type of country and sing about this place: Australia."
The results bring the duo's career Golden Guitar haul to 15.
Country music veteran Kasey Chambers, who had received the most nominations in 2026, won three of the 13 categories she was up for.
The Divorce Song - a collaboration with exhusband Shane Nicholsonearned Chambers the Golden Guitar for single of the year and song of the year, while her album was awarded altcountry album of the year.
Male artist of the year and new talent of the year went to Wade Forster while Max Jackson took home female artist of the year for the second year in a row.
Two-time ARIA winner Fanny Lumsden and her husband Dan Stanley
Freeman won
the year for Look At Me Now, which encapsulates the past decade and a half of her career through snippets of the life the couple share.
"This particular clip is quite different in that it's not the world of the song, it's the world of our lives," Freeman said.
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
* Max Jackson MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
* Wade Forster ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers SONG OF THE YEAR
* The Divorce SongKasey Chambers featuring Shane Nicholson SINGLE OF THE YEAR
* The Divorce Song -
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
* Look At Me Now - Fanny Lumsden ALT COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Backbone - Kasey Chambers TRADITIONAL COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR
* Start All Over AgainBrendan Radford
HERITAGE SONG OF THE YEAR
* Australian Made - The Wolfe Brothers VOCAL COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
* How Many One More Times - The Wolfe Brothers with Zac & George AAP travelled with the assistance of Tamworth Country Music Festival.
video of
Kasey Chambers featuring Shane Nicholson
q Australia's first female astronaut, Katherine Bennell-Pegg was named 2026 Australian of the Year. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)
q The Wolfe Brothers have stormed the Country Music Awards of Australia, winning five Golden Guitars. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
DOG PARK
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Studies have proven that dog owners have lower stress levels and an easier time making friends. However, those researchers haven’t met Dog Park’s Roland (Leon Ford). In the grip of a mid-life crisis, the pessimistic Roland recently became solely responsible for his daughter Mia (Florence Gladwin) and family dog Beattie while his wife works overseas, but isn’t particularly attentive to either. One day, a visit to the local park introduces Roland to eternal optimist Samantha (Celia Pacquola, pictured with Ford) and the “Dog Park Divas”, a close-knit group of friends eager to adopt him – whether he likes it or not.
FRIDAY, January 30
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.15 Smother. (Mal, R)
1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
MONDAY
MILLIONAIRE HOT SEAT
TEN, 7pm
After 15 years on air, is a quiz show most Australians know like the back of their own hands. But 10’s fresh take on the format hosted by national treasure Rebecca Gibney (pictured) is changing the game.
The Gold Logie winner is the first female to host Hot Seat high-risk, high-reward edition where just one wrong move can mean walking home empty-handed – and brings her bubbly personality, plenty of positivity and compassion to the role.
“I know I have big shoes to fill,” confesses Gibney.
“But I said when I turned 60 I wasn’t going to let fear stop me from trying new things – so here we go!” Six clever contestants try to win $1 million in Monday’s premiere.
TUESDAY NCIS
TEN, 9pm
Keeping viewers guessing by following an enigmatic special agent who plays his or her cards close to their chest is rule no.1 in the playbook. It allows the show’s writers to keep fans hooked by bread-crumbing the audience with tantalising reveals, and it’s also much easier than writing a back story that could cause complicated plot holes down the line. After four years at the helm of the team, it’s finally time we learn a little more about Alden Parker (Gary Cole, pictured). After his father was murdered in season 22’s finale, Parker is more determined than ever to track down the elusive Carla Marino (Rebecca De Mornay), even if it means ignoring the orders of Director Vance (Rocky Carroll) to carry out his personal vendetta.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Great House Revival. (PG)
9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Sisi. (Ma, R)
11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+ans, R)
1.30 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)
3.30 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)
4.00 Barkley Manor. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Adam Dovile fixes wobbly shelves.
8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017, MA15+sv, R) After the Kingsmen are attacked by a mysterious enemy, Eggsy and Merlin are the sole survivors. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong.
11.30 Doc. (Mav, R)
12.30 MOVIE: A Sister’s Grudge. (2021, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13. Men’s semi-finals. 11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R) An infection threatens Marcel’s transplant.
12.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) 1.00 Next Stop. (R)
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 GolfBarons. (PG, R) 6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa, R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (R) A couple struggle
SATURDAY, January 31
6.00 Back Roads: Local Heroes Special. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) A solo delivery puts Sister Julienne’s skills to the test.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Return, PGav) When a group of rival mudlarkers excavate the Holly Brook river, a dark and deadly past resurfaces.
10.00 The Jetty. (Final, MA15+a, R) Ember tries to uncover the truth about Amy. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
FAMILY
6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.25 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Jnr. 8.45 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Women On The Frontline. (PG)
8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Contrasting Bernina Railway. (R) Looks at the Bernina route. 9.40 The Secret DNA Of Us: Geelong. (Ma, R) The team heads to Geelong. 10.45 Lord Lucan. (Mav, R) 11.45 House Of Promises. (Msv, R)
3.15 Barkley Manor. (PG, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31)
6am The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 8.10 The Movie Show. 8.45 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.25 Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 12.15pm Tudawali. (1987, M) 1.55 Discovering Film. 2.55 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 4.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.30 The Gunman. (2015) 10.40
SUNDAY, February 1
6.00 Grand Designs Transformations: Turkish Queenslander And Newstead Bath House. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (Return, PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (Premiere, Ml) A man finds himself adopted by a pack of dog-tragics.
9.00 This England. (Premiere, Ml) Looks at Britain during Covid.
10.05 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)
11.05 Midsomer Murders. (PGav, R)
12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 7.50 MOVIE: Yogi Bear. (2010, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Abbott Elementary. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Lost Cities Of Genghis Khan. (Premiere)
9.20 Angkor: Hidden Jungle Empire.
10.20 Zelenskyy: Citizens At War. (PGalv, R)
11.15 A Year From Space. (PGavw, R)
12.30 Building The Impossible. (PGa, R)
1.25 The Deadly Bermuda Triangle. (PGa, R)
2.15 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)
3.20 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
Of The Rings. 6.50 Abandoned Engineering. 8.40 The Disappearance Of Jimmy Hoffa. 9.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. 12.30am Django. 2.30 NHK World News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 MOVIE: The Super Mario Bros. Movie. (2023, PGv) Two plumbers are sent to a magical kingdom. Chris Pratt.
9.00 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021, MA15+v, R) Members of a spy agency find themselves pitted against an evil cabal bent on starting a war. Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton.
11.40 Air Crash Investigations: Dream Flight Disaster. (PGa, R)
12.40 MOVIE: Betrayed Within. (2022, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. Women’s final.
12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R)
1.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)
Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple are at a crossroads about their home. 8.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)
7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R) A celebration of John Farnham.
9.30 Queen: In Their Own Words. (Mal, R) The story of rock band Queen.
10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Temple. (Malv)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
9GO!
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. Men’s final. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 The First 48: Point Of No Return. (Ma, R) Two friends are found executed in a car.
1.00 Next Stop. A look
(22)
MONDAY, February 2
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
Building The World’s Greatest Castle. 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Return) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Return)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Like Water For Chocolate. (MA15+v)
11.25 Vigil. (Mav, R)
2.45 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 TKO: Total Knock Out. 9.15
6am The Movie
Show. 6.35 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 8.35
The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 10.25 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.30pm Swan Song. (2021, M) 2.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 4.30
The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.50 Here I Am. (2011, M) 9.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) Midnight Late Programs.
TUESDAY, February 3
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (Return, PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (Ma) Athena and Hen face increasing danger in space.
10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)
11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls)
9.30 Forging Champions. (PGl) A look at Canberra’s Australian Institute of Sport.
11.00 9News Late.
Sight Unseen. (Mv) 12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGals, R)
8.30 MOVIE: From Roger Moore With Love. (2024)
10.10 Rock Legends. (R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)
12.05 DNA. (Mav, R)
1.45 Australia In Colour. (PGa, R)
3.40 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 Doc. (Mav) A patient forces Amy to confront the realities of medical tourism. TJ helps a veteran with his prosthetic. Joan drops a bombshell.
11.15 St. Denis Medical. (Ms) Joyce brings in a body scanner.
6am The Movie Show. 7.00 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 9.30
Another Country. (2015, PG) 10.55 Here I Am. (2011, M) 12.35pm Welcome Back, Mr. President. (2019, M, Italian) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 5.25 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 7.20 Out Of Season. (1975, M) 9.30 The Prestige. (2006, M) 11.55 Trespass Against Us. (2016, MA15+) 1.45am 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. Check
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WEDNESDAY, February 4
9.20 Trespasses. (Premiere, Mlsv)
10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 11.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R) 1.40 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R)
2.30 Australia In Colour. (Md, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGal)
8.30 Highway Patrol. (Return, PG)
9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (Premiere, MA15+av)
10.15 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa)
11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)
12.35 The Last Weekend. (Premiere, Mav)
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Let The Games Begin. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026. 10.45 9News Late.
11.15 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R) 12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
THURSDAY,
February 5
6am The Movie
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)
8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)
9.20 In Flight. (Madl)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Before We Die. (Mal, R)
11.40 This Town. (MA15+dl, R)
2.00 Because We Have Each Other. (Mal, R)
3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
MOVIE: Snatch. (2000, MA15+) 10.30 The UnXplained. 11.20 Homicide. 1.10am Threesome. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Late Programs.
Show. 6.15 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.10 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 10.05 The Prestige. (2006, M) 12.25pm Discovering Film. 1.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 2.50 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 5.20 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 7.30 Limitless. (2011, M) 9.30 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 11.45 Patrick. (2019, MA15+, French) 1.35am Late Programs. 6am Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.15 Hajjan. (2023, PG, Arabic) 10.35 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 12.45pm Out Of Season. (1975, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Discovering Film. 4.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.55 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 9.40 The Quiet American. (2002, MA15+) 11.35 The Good German. (2006, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009, PGls, R) An editor gets engaged to her assistant to get a green card so she can continue working in the US. Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen.
10.50 To Be Advised.
12.35 Dare Me. (Premiere, MA15+asv) The arrival of a new coach threatens the tight bond between two cheerleaders.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
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PUZZLES
Dear Jasminda, I was driving up a long and winding road in my ute on the weekend when I passed a cyclist. She seemed to be doing it very tough and wasn't making much progress. Should I have offered her [and her bike] a lift to the next town? I'm now regretting that I didn't stop to assist.
Gerard P.
Dear Gerard,
One person's torture is another's personal challenge.
Although the cyclist you
passed may have been in physical agony (her calf muscles screaming with each pedal push), when she finally reached the crest of the hill, she no doubt felt the elation of achievement, which would have sustained her through the remainder of her ride.
Unless she was sitting on the side of the road with a flat tyre, I think you were right to continue driving (even then, she probably had a repair kit).
Cyclists battle so many obstacles when they ride on roads -- cars that drive past too fast or too close, roadwork, potholes, inclement weather, and passengers getting out of their vehicles without looking -- that they are pretty seasoned (or soon learn to be).
She may have just been riding slowly to conserve her
remaining energy.
Still, it was kind of you to be thoughtful enough to reflect on whether you should or shouldn't have stopped.
I'm sure she had a mobile phone in her backpack ready to ring a friend or family member if the going got too tough (unless she was a lone tourist, and then your offer may have been more alarming than the steep incline she was trying to navigate).
If you are thinking of stopping for an exhausted cyclist in the future, perhaps just ask if there is anyone you can call for them or check if they have enough water and provisions to sustain them until their next rest stop.
A simple 'are you okay?' if it is safe to do so would no doubt be greatly appreciated.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp 063
OPINION Honours list: gender balance ‘cause for concern’
CONGRATULATIONS
to the 680 Australians recognised in the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list, which we the Council of the Order of Australia, recommended to the Governor-General.
This represents the highest number since Australia Day 2024.
The recipients come from all parts of the country and their service, achievements and impact are remarkable.
All are deserving of recognition through our nation’s honours system for their service to the Australian community.
It is particularly pleasing to note the significant number of people being recognised with the highest meritorious award in the system, the Companion of the Order of Australia – and on this occasion an equal representation between women and men.
However, the gender balance of this year’s
honours list more broadly is both a cause for concern and, the Council hopes, a prompt for community action.
Honours in the Order of Australia are a result of nominations – anyone can nominate a worthy Australian for recognition.
In previous years the Council has considered an even gender balance of nominations, however, over time, this has led to a significantly larger pool of nominations for men left to
be considered.
Many more nominations are still being received for men than women and the Council must consider the nominations for Australians that are in the system.
There is no doubt there are as many outstanding women contributing to our communities as there are men – the fact an equal number of women and men have been appointed Companions of the Order in this list underlines that.
The Council would like
MidCoast LGA welcomes 35 citizens
marking a significant milestone in their personal journeys.
By Sis HIGGINS
MIDCOAST Council hosted its annual Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming new Australian citizens from across the MidCoast community.
The ceremony recognised the commitment made by participants as they formally became Australian citizens,
MidCoast Council General Manager Adrian Panuccio said they are “delighted to welcome 35 new Australians to the region.”
“They were joined by many of their friends and family at the ceremony to celebrate this momentous occasion.”
Held as part of national Australia Day celebrations,
the event highlighted the shared values of respect, inclusion and belonging that unite people from diverse backgrounds across the region
Citizenship ceremonies continued to play an important role in Australia Day observances, providing an opportunity for communities to reflect on what it means to be Australian and to acknowledge the contributions migrants make
to local life.
For many new citizens, the ceremony represented the culmination of years of connection, perseverance and involvement within the community.
Family members, friends and community representatives attended the ceremony to share in the occasion and offer support as participants took their pledge of commitment.
The gathering also gave
to see this balance reflected across all nominations and, therefore, outcomes at all levels of award.
We need Australians nominating outstanding women for recognition.
Nominating is simple –the form is online and help is available.
Nominators need to provide information about the person they are nominating and three referees who can attest to the person’s service and impact.
the wider community a chance to celebrate cultural diversity and recognise how citizenship strengthens social cohesion across the MidCoast.
MidCoast Council held the ceremony on Monday, 26 January 2026, from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
The formal proceedings brought together people of all ages and backgrounds, reinforcing the idea that citizenship is both a privilege and a responsibility.
By hosting the annual ceremony, MidCoast Council
We encourage all Australians to look around their community, their workplaces, and the whole of our society, identify the women, as well as the men, who make a difference and whose impact is profound and nominate them so they can be celebrated through the Order of Australia.
On behalf of the Council of the Order of Australia
continued to support inclusive community building and to acknowledge the evolving story of Australia as a nation shaped by migration. The Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony served as a reminder that the MidCoast is home to people from many walks of life, united by a shared commitment to community, democratic values and a strong sense of belonging in Australia.
Visit newsofthearea.com.au to sign up for a FREE digital subscription to one / all of our newspapers. You will be sent an email when each of the printed editions are available to be read online. www.newsofthearea.com.au
q Gillian and William Maher receive their certificate. Photo: supplied.
q A young Adav family at the ceremony with Mayor Claire Pontin. Photo: supplied.
Zone ‘revived’
By Sue STEPHENSON
THE Newcastle Port Stephens Game Fish Club (NPSGFC) has joined community groups in accusing Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen of attempting to revive the region’s failed offshore wind proposal by rebranding it research and demonstration (R&D).
Mr Bowen announced on Friday that he had opened
applications for R&D licences in Australia’s six offshore wind zones, including off Port Stephens.
While research “development” is largely theoretical and focuses on acquiring new knowledge, “demonstration” involves project-based testing in realistic or near-operational environments.
“These licences will give certainty to domestic and
international developers, universities and research cooperatives to pioneer new technological advances in Australian waters,” Mr Bowen said.
NPSGFC President Troy Radford said the minister’s announcement confirms the government is determined to push industrial-scale energy projects into sensitive marine environments, regardless of evidence or community opposition.
“The offshore wind farm off Port Stephens didn’t stack
up - full stop,” Mr Radford said.
“It failed on environmental risk, economic justification, and social licence.
“Calling it ‘R&D’ doesn’t magically fix those failures, it just tries to disguise them.”
The Federal Government had offered a feasibility licence to Norwegian Energy Company Equinor and Australian firm Oceanex to build the $10bn Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm.
But Equinor pulled out in August 2025, declining to
take up the lease. Despite the project being shelved and years of community protests, the 1,854 km² area off the Hunter Coast between Norah Head (Central Coast) and Port Stephens, remains a designated offshore wind zone.
Mr Radford said the government has produced no credible explanation for how offshore wind infrastructure, even at an R&D stage, would avoid the same impacts that doomed the original proposal, including exclusion zones, disruption to marine habitat, and serious risks to navigation and fishing access.
“You don’t get a different outcome just because you change the label,” he said.
“Industrial structures in the ocean have industrial impacts. Anyone pretending otherwise is not being honest with the public.”
Port Stephens is one of Australia’s most significant recreational and game fishing regions, supporting tourism, small business, and a marine ecosystem that has been responsibly used and protected for generations.
Mr Radford said treating the area as an experimental zone showed a profound disconnect between Canberra and coastal communities.
“Port Stephens is not a laboratory, and our community is not a guinea pig for energy policy experiments.”
The club has called on the minister to release all
$4.2m to improve shark detection
NEW research, realtime tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer.
The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviour - particularly before and after weather events.
Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW) shark surveillance has been significantly expanded with 30 beaches added to the 50 currently monitored during school holidays.
Nineteen of the new sites are in Sydney and 11 are in regional NSW.
They include Crowdy Head, where a woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in late November.
In the Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA), drones currently operate at Fingal Bay and Birubi surf life saving clubs.
While, in addition to Crowdy Head, drones in the MidCoast Council LGA are at Cape Hawke, Tea GardensHawks Nest, Forster and Black Head.
Drones will also increase
operations to seven days a week through to the end of the April school holidays.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the new package represents a 90 percent increase on the current shark surveillance drone program, which means an additional 35,000 flying hours from 24 January to 26 April.
"We know our SLS drones are an effective eye in the sky when it comes to early shark detection and warning beach users,” he said.
"So far in 2025/26, 50 Surf Life Saving NSW drones from Tweed to Bega have completed 29,431 flights over 8044 flying hours.
“During that time 461 sharks were sighted.
"Our lifeguards and lifesavers enacted 170 countermeasures including beach evacuations, beach siren, drone siren, and rescue vessels."
The additional funding follows heightened community concern and recognises the importance of clear, evidence-based safety messaging for swimmers and surfers.
In announcing the new measures, Minister for
Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty, acknowledged that there is no single solution to preventing shark attacks.
“No government can ever promise to make the water completely safe, which is why we’re using a range of tools to keep people informed and as safe as possible,” she said.
As part of the package, the NSW Government will strengthen community awareness, with an expanded SharkSmart education campaign, an additional mobile education van, new and updated signage, and increased social media alerts and community warnings during periods of elevated risk.
Shark listening stations will be installed in Sydney Harbour, allowing faster detection of tagged sharks, while focused research on bull sharks in the harbour and other estuaries will be carried out, including tagging and monitoring led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) shark scientists.
These measures sit alongside the 2025/26 Shark Management Program
already operating across NSW, which includes 305 SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drumlines in 19 local government areas for year-round coverage, and tracking the movements of tagged sharks via 37 tagged shark listening stations, with
at least one station in every coastal local government area for year-round coverage.
In December, the Government announced an additional $2.5 million enhancement to its 2025/26 program, with drones starting a week earlier than
environmental modelling, economic assumptions, navigational risk assessments, and stakeholder impact analyses used to justify the R&D proposal.
Nationals Member for Lyne Alison Penfold noted how the announcement was “buried in a media release, late on Friday”.
“The Minister is back at it again, trying to force a wind farm against the community’s wishes”, Ms Penfold said.
“Offshore wind is simply not feasible or wanted off the Myall [or Hunter] Coast.
“Our community has made this blatantly clear.
“The fact that the Minister is doing this without any consultation with affected communities smacks of… arrogance and disregard.
Followers of the “Save the Myall Coast Save Port Stephens” community group have pledged to make this an election issue.
“Have no doubt, we will turn the protection of our precious beaches into a red hot issue at the impending NSW state election - and take out our frustration on Labor there,” wrote Ian Roberts. “We will also maintain the rage into the Port Stephens council election.”
Theresa Green wrote:
“Only the polls can fix this.”
“Plenty of city people holiday in this area, perhaps they may have some interest in their future recreation locations not being contaminated by this rubbish.”
normal in summer; weekend flights from February to April; an expedited rollout of additional drones and training for Surfing NSW; and, triple the funding for the rollout of community shark bite kits in regional coastal areas.
All drone locations across NSW can be found on the SharkSmart website at sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/.
q The designated zone runs between Norah Head and Port Stephens.
q The state government has significantly increased shark surveillance through to the end of the April school holidays. Photo: SharkSmart.
Property agents ‘named and shamed’
THE State Government has launched a “Name and Shame” list of real estate agents, property managers and strata managing agents who have faced enforcement action.
Available through the NSW Fair Trading website, it allows homeowners, buyers and renters to check if an agent has been fined, suspended or had their licence cancelled.
It also includes public warnings to protect consumers from highrisk traders, enforceable undertakings and prosecution outcomes.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said the list will lift standards across the sector.
“Publishing serious breaches and repeated noncompliance sends a clear message that accountability matters,” he said.
Key information such as a trader’s name, ABN or ACN, licence number, and suburb are listed, as well as a clear description of the type of action and why it was taken.
Processes are in place to ensure appropriate levels of privacy, according to Strata and Property Services Commissioner Angus Abadee.
“The list has been built with clear publication guidelines and timeframes and processes to correct errors and manage privacy where appropriate,” he said.
“It’s about transparency that’s fair to consumers and businesses.”
Last financial year, NSW Fair Trading undertook nearly 500 investigations and more than 300 inspections in the property and rental sector.
It issued over 300 penalty notices worth more than $430,000, and carried out significant licensing actions including cancellations, suspensions and disqualifications.
Backed by an $8.4 million investment, the newly established Strata and Property Services Taskforce has also placed additional inspectors in the field.
Together, they have completed more than
q Fair Trading Minister Anoulack Chanthivong launched the ‘Name and Shame’ list on 25 January. Photo: minister’s website.
186 Anytime, Anywhere inspections with a focus on maintaining compliance standards across the property sector.
Gloucester Lady Bowlers
By Jennifer BURLEY
AFTER a weekend of much needed rain Wednesday dawned brightly and the ladies arrived to do battle for the first Point Score Trophy of 2026.Two games of Triples and two of Pairs were drawn, Jill Everett, Debbie Cushway
and Judy Sheely in a tight tussle 18/8 were beaten by Deb Horner,Penny Gibson and Jenny Burley 19/14. and in the other Triples game Deb English,Joy Hurworth and Bev Germon 17/15 defeated Deb English(swinger)Lou Clements and Val Pritchard 10/8.
Higgins Wins Women’s Golf
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE course was looking green after the recent rain, on Wednesday 21 January, as Susie Higgins took top honours in the Gloucester Golf Ladies 12hole Summer Competition.
Susie Higgins was back in the winner's circle, with a solid score of 27 points. Balls were won by Pat Burrows, 25 points, Dale
Rabbett,24 and Myrelle Fraser, 23.
Anne Wand took out the prize for Nearest-tothe-Pin at the 4th and 13th holes, with Dale Rabbett closest at the 15th hole.
The Gloucester Golf Ladies will continue their Summer Competition this Wednesday 28 January and will continue to do so throughout the summer.
And in the Pairs games
Di Pritchard and Suzanne Cross 18/14 defeated Julie Kriss and Denise Redman 15/8 with the other game
Jenny Stevens and Joan Ridgeway 21/15 accounting for Ruth Redman and Jill Carson 10/7, thus the team of Jenny and Joan,on a count
This tool follows the Government’s proposed slate of reforms to the state’s underquoting laws.
Subject to consultation,
back, won the trophy of the day. Further results from the Mixed Pairs Championship played on Sunday 18th are:
Max and Jenny Stevens defeated Rob Heiningher and Janette Mumford 25 to 20.
Mark Groves and Suzanne Cross defeated John Andrews and Jenny Burley 25 to 9.
Robert and Debbie Cushway defeated Adrian Rovere and Cassie Wallace 19 to 12. Rob
the legislative changes will significantly increase penalties for misleading price estimates to $110,000 or three times the agent’s commission (whichever is greater), mandate a price or price guide on all advertising,
and Penny Gibson defeated Mike and Judy Sheely 19 to 13. Kevin and Jill Everett defeated Aaron Kellie and his daughter Echo 25 to 11.
It is noted that this was Echo's first competition match and being 11 years young, it just goes to show that bowls is not only for the elderly, well done Echo. Owing to the rain 3 matches scheduled for afternoon play
were abandoned, to be played prior to next the round on Sunday 8th February. One game has since been completed, Tony Tersteeg and Bev Murray defeated Alec Laurie and Paula Standen 28 to 9. The draw has been done for the Mixed Triples Championship and is on the board play to start Wednesday 4th February
Benson, Murray win Four Ball Golf
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
The best Individual score was that of Steve Macdonald, 40, although he needed a count back to claim that honour.
The three grades were represented in the Nearestto-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes by Craig
McLeod, 342 cm, Geoff Reynolds, 617 cm, and Paul Coote, 370 cm. At the 6th and 15th holes it was Craig McLeod, 170 cm, in A grade and Hayden Cornall, 427 cm in C grade together with Dale Rabbett, 782 cm, the top woman competitor off the tee.
The long drive trophies at the 8th and 17th holes were
won by Ken Kelly, Zed Van der Velte, John Nicholson and Gai Falla.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 23 January was won by Peter Markey with 19 points. Ball winners were Paul Thibault 18, Derek Wand, Matt Yates and Steve Yates 17, with Sally Higgins, 16, taking home the last ball.
On Saturday next, 31 January the Gloucester Golf Club will be playing an Individual Stableford sponsored by Gloucester Auto Brokers & Detailers; the following Saturday, 7 February, there will be the Monthly Medal, an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Arkwood Organic Recycling.
Sate, Wand Storm Home in Vets Golf
By Peter WILDBLOOD
ON Tuesday, 20 January, the Gloucester Veteran Golfers turned out in numbers with wins to Anne Wand and Peter Sate on a cool, dry day with a course improving nicely after recent rain.
The event was an Individual Stroke sponsored by Paul Thibault. The winner with a net score of 70 was Peter Sate with Anne Wand turning in the top Stableford score of the day of38 points, just pipping Peter on a count back. Once again, the top putter on the day was Carolyn
Davies with 29 putts. Balls were won by Rod Burrows and Derek Bardwell 73, Peter McIntyre and Gary Peters 75, with the last three balls going to Sally Higgins, Gai Falla and Steve Kriss, 76.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 6th and 15th holes was won by Chris Steele.
On Tuesday 27 January the Gloucester Veterans played a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford sponsored by Di and Derek Bardwell. Next Tuesday 3 February, Amanda Robertson will sponsor an Individual Stableford.
