Myall Coast News Of The Area 16 JULY 2026

Free-range flock keeps Barrington family smiling

By Sis HIGGINS

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POST: PO Box 1000, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

Native bird flu case sparks 'nightmare' wildlife fears

By Robyn WUTH, AAP

A KILLER bird flu strain has been discovered in an Australian native seabird for the first time, sparking fears it could trigger a wildlife emergency.

Testing detected the H5N1 strain in a greater crested tern discovered at Robe in South Australia.

The case marked a major escalation in the crisis, Invasive Species Council policy director Carol Booth said.

"We're potentially about to face a devastating wildlife emergency," she told AAP.

"It's really a worst nightmare."

It's the first known infection in a wild non-migratory mainland bird rather than a migratory species from the Southern Ocean.

Wildlife ecologist Bill Bateman said it was a concerning development and the disease could spread inland.

"It is a route for it to spread into our ducks and geese and potentially also then into scavenging birds like crows, and then further inland and into bush birds," he said.

"What we can expect to see is probably a collapse or a very, very deep crash of many of our breeding species of birds.

"That's the worry."

The worst-case scenario would be if the disease spread into mammal populations, Curtin University Associate Professor Bateman said.

"We have the most unique mammal fauna of anywhere in the world," he said.

The alarm came as CSIRO testing determined another case in a migratory seabird, bringing the total confirmed or presumed H5 cases to 13.

Bird flu was detected in a petrel found at Horrocks Beach in Western Australia, Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said on Friday.

While the sequencing of the virus could not be determined, the case was considered positive as a precaution.

Two further birds in SA and another in Western Australia have also been confirmed as carrying H5.

A New Zealand fur seal in NSW is reportedly under observation in what could be the first infection in an Australian mammal species.

Scientists were trying to understand how the tern became infected, federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said.

"What we do know is that this is a coastal seabird with an overlapping coastal range with migratory seabirds that have previously tested positive for H5," she said.

Ms Collins stressed there was no evidence of mass mortality among wildlife, no infections in commercial poultry or other agricultural settings and the risk to human health remained low.

"While this is a concerning development, it is not unexpected and is another sign that

our strong biosecurity system is working," she said.

SA Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven said the tern was an isolated case and there was no evidence of other deaths in the Robe area.

Environmental groups fear the first native bird case is a worrying turning point, warning an entrenched wildlife outbreak could be devastating.

Conservationists are urging the Albanese government to fund a $200 million wildlife resilience package, arguing surveillance alone will not be enough if H5 becomes established.

"The best thing we can do for wildlife is to reduce other threats now so they have the best chance of surviving and recovering from disease outbreaks," Dr Booth said.

That includes tightening control on invasive cats and foxes that prey on native animals, eradicating invasive species from islands and restoring wetlands to strengthen habitats for aquatic birds.

The SA government is leading the response around Robe, on the Limestone Coast, where the tern was discovered, with enhanced surveillance in the area.

Federal experts, including Australia's chief veterinary officer, had met to guide the national response, authorities said.

People have been warned not to touch sick or dead birds or wildlife, to keep pets away and to report unusual deaths or behaviour.

July Christmas Shopping

By Thomas O’KEEFE

ST ANDREWS Anglican

Church in Tea Gardens

once again held its famous Christmas in July sale, offering everything from toys to tableware.

The event was held last Friday and Saturday, 10-11

July, and featured a massive display that was sorted and presented by a team of dedicated volunteers led by Sue Nicholls.

The op shop dug into its overstocked stores to help those around town celebrating ‘Christmas in July’ to do it with as much

glitz as possible.

“Sales have more than doubled in the last four years and donations of goods have increased even more,” said the new op shop manager Gary King.

“Storage is becoming more of a pressing issue, as we receive up to 1000

donated items per week which need to be sorted, and we are hoping to purchase an extra storage shed in the near future to ease this situation.

“We also rehome excess clothing and other goods, keeping them out of landfill, and currently have around

Stay away from Southern Right Whales

THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has issued a Special Order for all vessels to stay at least 500 metres, and swimmers 100m, away from all Southern Right Whales in NSW waters.

The Order will be in place until 30 November 2026 when the breeding and calving season ends in NSW.

Southern Right Whales attract a lot of attention as they stay close to beaches and move slowly on the surface. Although incredibly rare, they are easily spotted when they visit.

The Order comes after a mother and calf were recently spotted off Sydney, with curious boaters and locals venturing close to the pair.

The NPWS citizen science project ‘Right Whale ID’ has

tracked individual whales through their unique white facial callosities for the past 6 years. Research has found that even a single swimmer approaching too enthusiastically can trigger a significant negative behavioural response in the whale.

Identifying one of the handful or so Southern Right Whales off the NSW Coast each whale season, as opposed to one of the 40,000 humpback whales, is fairly simple.

Any slow moving, 1416 metre long whale which is 500m or less off an ocean beach could be a Southern Right Whale. Identifying features include: a distinctive V-shaped blow when they exhale large broad body size,

absence of a dorsal fin white markings (skin growths) on their faces and heads known as ‘callosities’ the tail/fluke is geometrically angular and usually black on both top and bottom sides.

Unlike Humpbacks, mother and calf Southern Right Whales spend more than 90 per cent of their time in waters shallower than 20m, and often less than 500m from shore.

While nursing they move very slowly, engaging in a still, energy-saving behaviour called ‘logging’, which is floating at the surface for long periods.

These behaviours make them highly susceptible to disturbance from overly curious people swimming, paddling or boating too close

FRY BROS

35 amazing volunteers, many who have been serving the op shop for many years.

“The number of volunteers has not increased, despite the increase in donations, meaning the Op Shop is facing a very real shortage of workers.

“We would welcome volunteers from the community to assist with sorting and receiving of stock.”

Mr King said new volunteers would need to complete the essential Newcastle Diocese Ministry course, but did not necessarily need to be churchgoers in order to help out.

The St Andrews Op Shop turnover makes a major contribution to the operations of the church as well as supporting many charities both in Australia and overseas.

The proceeds from the two annual Christmas sales – in July and December – historically go to local charities and groups as chosen each year by the management and members.

“In the last five years, these sales have supported

Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Destiny Haven refuge for women, TGHN SLSC, the local Free Clinic Bus, and Tea Gardens Public School, and we are also currently supplying warm clothes and blankets to the Red Cross Winter Appeal,” Mr King said.

Members of the Tea Gardens Red Cross conferred with the op shop this year when the Winter Appeal started.

This resulted in three bags of warm clothing and blankets being delivered to the local drop-off point. These will make their way to Newcastle to assist those sleeping rough in the region this winter.

“The Op Shop provides a safe and friendly environment allowing the community to purchase a huge range of clothes and other goods at extremely low prices,” Mr King said.

“Clothes range from $2.50 to $5, and our volunteers are also always willing to have a friendly chat with anyone who drops by. We are open Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8:30-12:30.”

for the mum’s comfort.

Disturbances can cost the animals precious energy budget as their responses often include significant increases in swim distances as they try to evade them. The disturbance effect is seen in tracking data over subsequent days.

NPWS asks people to comply with the keep-away distances to help protect these mammals.

Members of the public, partner organisations and NPWS staff will collect witness accounts when people venture too close to Southern Right Whales and proceed with investigations where warranted. Noncompliance could result in fines or court appearances.

If anyone spots a Southern Right Whale please report to NPWS or ORRCA hotlines on 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) or (02) 9415 3333 immediately, which allows the Right Whale ID

team to get on site as soon as possible.

“Doing the right thing by Southern Right Whales means the southeast Australian population has a better chance of recovering,” said NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service marine wildlife project officer Andy Marshall said.

“I would like to think that future generations will be able to see these incredible animals and be awed by them, in the same way we are today.”

by Cavelle Lindsay

The divorce of a Will maker or the annulment of his or her marriage revokes the entitlement of the Will maker’s former spouse under the terms of a Will in existence at the time of the divorce or annulment. Further, the divorce or annulment revokes the appointment of the Will maker’s former spouse as an Executor under the terms of the Will. However, if the Will specifically provides that the former spouse shall be a beneficiary or Executor (or both) notwithstanding the divorce or annulment then the divorce or annulment has no

effect on the Will. Further, the Divorce or annulment of the marriage of the Will maker does not revoke the appointment of the Will maker’s former spouse as Trustee of any property left by the Will in trust for beneficiaries that include the former spouse’s children.

If you are intending to divorce your spouse or seek an annulment of your marriage it is wise to consult your solicitor as your actions may have an effect on your Will.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Free-range flock keeps Barrington family smiling

FROM Page 1

in incubators, and has noticed a remarkable difference between the two.

"My chicks that are hatched under the broody hens seem more independent from an earlier age.

"They are born out into the yard and taught from the hen within the first week what to eat and the awareness of their surroundings.

"They're highly intelligent, more so than the incubator hatchlings."

The chickens begin life on starter feed before progressing through grower feed and eventually layer pellets and scratch mix once they begin laying eggs.

Melissa also supplements their diet with fruit and vegetables, and enjoys watching them forage naturally.

"When these chooks are out in the yard they are very busy eating all they can find in the grass, from bugs to worms and anything in between," she said.

Happy, free-ranging hens generally lay between four and six eggs a week, depending on their breed, age and the season.

Eggs from free-range hens are often prized for their rich yolks and can contain higher levels of beneficial nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, largely due to the birds' varied diet and access to sunlight.

While life is peaceful for the flock now, Melissa is concerned about the possibility of bird flu restrictions.

"Sadly, if bird flu eventuates I may have to confine the chooks to the sheds," she said.

"Chooks need sunlight to prosper.

"I hope people don't just give up on hope. We can get through this and keep our beautiful poultry culture alive."

Locals wanting to learn more about the chooks can contact Melissa via Facebook’s Barrington Brahmas page.

New-look Blueys Beach Village

THE final Blueys Beach Village concept design aims to improve pedestrian and motorist safety while enhancing the area’s visual amenity and preserving the area’s relaxed, coastal atmosphere.

The chosen design was adopted by MidCoast Council following community consultation. Two concept designs were placed on public exhibition for community feedback.

During the consultation period, Council staff had 145 conversations at two drop-in events to discuss the plans. 121 formal submissions were received, and staff had multiple meetings with stakeholder groups.

At the end of the process, Option 1 was selected. Feedback results showed that option one was preferred by 73 per cent of people who selected an option.

Director of infrastructure and engineering service, Rob Scott, thanked the community for their engagement.

"Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their ideas and feedback," Mr Scott said.

"We heard that pedestrian safety, parking and traffic speed were big concerns for people. [Option 1 will] make the area suitable for a highpedestrian activity speed zone in the future."

Council will consider other feedback themes like formal pedestrian crossings, timed parking and speed limits as part of the detailed design.

"This feedback was important as it will guide us while we get the project ready to build,” Mr Scott said.

The project will progress as funding becomes available.

Free asbestos disposal

FROM Page 1

stream. Its goal is to improve the way NSW handles asbestos waste and create safer environments for workers and the community.

Kim Brislane, CEO Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI) said that more than 4000 Australians died each year from historical exposure to asbestos.

“We must be vigilant about the risk of asbestos and take precautions when it is detected in the workplace or the home,” Ms Brislane said.

“ADDRI supports patients and families affected by asbestos-related diseases every day, giving us a clear understanding of the devastating impact of asbestos exposure. That's why we strongly support action to better protect workers and the broader community from this preventable risk.”

The Government has earmarked $16 million for its Asbestos Plan of Action. Of that, $9 million will be used to establish the trial household collection program.

The Plan was developed through strong consultation including with SafeWork NSW, the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Institute, industry, workers and the

NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee.

“One in three houses built before 1990 contains asbestos – that’s why it’s important to make it cheaper and easier for NSW families to dispose of these materials,” said Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.

“To avoid the looming

Potions, powders and PROBUS

By Thomas O’KEEFE

POISON was on the menu at the Hawks Nest & District Probus Club’s July meeting, with a special presentation by local Alan Barr, on the topic of ‘Poison – A History of Potions, Powders and Murderous Practitioners from the Medieval royal courts of Europe to Leongatha, Victoria’.

The 82 members and one visitor heard from Alan, whose historical interests stem from England’s Tudor period, where many of the stories and folklore around witchcraft and poisons collided and ran into the modern day.

There appeared to be many frantic scribblings and pricked ears around the room as Alan elaborated on the definition of a poison, pointing to Swiss alchemist (and father of modern toxicology) Paracelsus, who first declared that ‘all substances can be poisonous… the only difference between a poison and medicine being the dosage’.

“The ‘lethal dose’ concept was coined by Dr JW Trevan, who determined that, for most people, six litres of water, or 118 coffees (175 espresso shots), or 12 shots of 40 per cent ABV alcohol are all likely lethal,” Alan explained.

Unlawful examples of poisonings spanned several high-profile murders in the 20th century, genocide during WWII, and famous cases of suicide, while ‘lawful’ ones included the modern concept of ‘voluntary assisted dying’, which the NSW Government has been one of the last to implement in Australia.

“Poisons have many sources, encompassing plants, animals, elements, and synthetics, with many losing their efficacy once cooked, although some, like the amatoxin found in death cap mushrooms, do not, remaining quite powerful,” Alan said.

Plants named included hemlock, death caps and belladonna, and animals included box jellyfish, funnel web spiders and snakes. Two thirds of the given examples are endemic to Australia.

“The most venomous animal on Earth is the Australian Inland Taipan –

waste crisis in NSW, we need to increase resource recovery and reduce barriers to safely disposing of problematic waste types, like asbestos.

“We’re acting upon recommendations to tighten the entire supply chain – making sure it is safer for workers, better for industry and trusted by the community.”

20 times more potent than the king cobra, 400 times the rattlesnake.

“One bite can kill 100 adults, but they are typically shy and docile.

“Their coastal cousins are very fast … they raise up in a ‘S’ shape when ready to strike,” said Alan.

“Australia is home to five of the top 10 most venomous snakes.”

Elements included some well-documented suspects like arsenic, mercury, lead, and thallium, which is banned in Australia due to its historic efficacy.

“Synthetics have included botulinum, a bacterial neurotoxin and the source of Botox, which some people inject into their faces and lips; cyanide, called ‘Zyklon B’ during WWI; polonium; and Novichok nerve agent,” Alan said.

“It is no coincidence that the history of poison runs in tandem with the history of medicine, like Warfarin, which was originally devised as a rat poison, until someone realised that in small doses it worked as an anticoagulant in humans, too.

“Henry VIII closed all the monasteries during his Reformation, and their big herb gardens fell to females to tend, allowing plantderived poisons to become the female weapon of choice, also enabling the ‘witchcraft’ crossover,” Alan drew on his historical knowledge.

“Henry VIII was paranoid of poisoning, had his food and his bed tested. His son Edward VI shared that paranoia and decreed that poison murderers would

be boiled alive, while his daughter, Queen Elizabeth I, was also paranoid, although her lead- and mercury-based makeup likely killed her in the end.

“In the 19th century, arsenic was the ‘miracle product’ of its time, used in many things, including toys, paint, soap – Louisa Collins killed two husbands with it, while strychnine had medicinal uses in aiding paralysed nerves, and were even sold in chocolatecovered tablets.”

“In the 20th century, the Nazis industrialised genocide, aiming to kill 2000 people per hour.”

“In the 21st century, 2006 saw Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko, while in the UK, poisoned by rare polonium in his tea. Doctors say the radiation sickness turned his organs to mush inside him.”

Alan also looked at the suspicious poisonings of Russian double-agent Sergei Skripal, and his daughter, who were exposed to Novichok in 2018, and the case of Russian opposition leader and human rights activist Alexei Navalny, who was killed by an allegedly synthetic version of a South American dart frog poison while in a penal colony in Siberia.

“Poisons were historically the most common weapon used by females, although superseded by firearms lately,” Alan said.

He highlighted the 2024 case of Erin Patterson, which made world headlines, from Leongatha, Victoria, when she located and processed

“Apparently there are

Utes allow Service NSW to give help afer disaster strikes

REGIONAL and remote communities across NSW are set to benefit from a major boost in access to government services, with new Service NSW Mobile Service Centres hitting the road this month.

Four tough new four-wheel-drive singlecab utes will replace the existing Mobile Service Centres, which have reached their end of life after covering more than one million kilometres since 2019.

The new fleet will be modified with ‘branch in a box’ technology – a customer service terminal which can be removed from the vehicle and continue to operate independently – helping ensure continuity of service even if the vehicle has broken down or is undergoing repairs.

The four-wheel drive capability will also make it easier for the Mobile Service Centres to be deployed to communities impacted by natural disasters, where staff play a critical role in the delivery of financial support grants and recovery efforts.

Communities can access all the same services available in a Service Centre, including more than 1,300 NSW Government transactions such as vehicle and driving transactions, applying for a Seniors Card or Working With Children Check as well as accessing support for cost-of-living initiatives.

Mobile Service Centres will continue their existing 9-week circuits, visiting more than 148 regional and remote communities across NSW which are typically more than 30 minutes’ drive from the nearest Service Centre.

This includes the “Kangaroo Bus” Mobile

Service Centre which visits more than 40 Aboriginal communities and includes Aboriginal Outreach officers from Revenue NSW, NSW Births, Deaths and Marriages and a business specialist from the Business

Bureau to help provide tailored and culturally sensitive advice and support. For more information on upcoming Mobile Service Centre visits, please visit: service.nsw. gov.au/mobile-service-centres

Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle

Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston

Hawkes Nest / Tea Gardens: Door-to-Door Pick-up | Drop-off

Walkers wade through June

By Thomas O’KEEFE

JUNE began with a special outing for the Thursday Walkers, to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service administration and maintenance base at Broadmeadow on a special Wednesday, 3 June.

“The aerial rescue service delivered a very informative talk about their activities throughout the north of the state with bases at Lismore, Tamworth and Newcastle, plus a tour of the base and a nice morning tea,” Ray Hughes told NOTA.

“They have a fleet of five helicopters to service the three

bases, with four on call at any time while the fifth is rotated through a maintenance schedule at Broadmeadow, and Newcastle-based flights operate out of the Belmont (Pelican) Airport.”

Unfortunately for the walkers, the helicopter was undergoing maintenance during their and being repainted so was unavailable for a close-up inspection of the specialist interiors.

The first Thursday of the month delivered a respite from the previous slew of wet Thursdays, with a cool, windy but dry one, and even a little sunshine between the scattered clouds to illuminate

a new route through and around Hawks Nest that has been developed by the local Myall Koala and Environment Group (MKEG).

The new route highlighted flora and fauna that share the habitat, with a series of information plaques placed by MKEG to provide interesting facts.

The walkers were told that MKEG plans to extend the walk soon.

Alum Mountain was next on the list. The walk offered several viewpoints near the top of the mountain that overlooked Bulahdelah, and at the southern end the walkers found views even further south over the Myall River and to the east with glimpses of the ocean. Northern-end views looked over the township and out to the Markwell Valley in the west.

The long climb up the old mining trail and the ups and downs out to the northern lookout and back kept everyone comfortably warm.

“It really is a spectacular walk passing several old quarries, highlighted by a wide range of forest including some superb grass trees plus huge boulders and rock formations scattered here and there,” Ray Hughes said.

The day was topped off with a visit to the local

Indonesian restaurant in Bulahdelah for lunch.

Another local outing the following week. The walkers trekked around Shearwater’s semi-rural estates, built on the hillside acreages leading into Tea Gardens, starting and ending at the Elouera Lions Lookout.

The walk followed a mixture of streets and bush tracks, passing some very nicely presented homes and offering some magnificent views overlooking forest, farmland, the township and out to the coastline.

The walk was followed by an invitation to attend an introduction/refresher session on First Aid, conducted by Tea Gardens’ own first aid rockstar, Kelly Pietsch from Mid Coast First Aid and Safety Training.

The group was advised

of the latest techniques to respond to heart attack, stroke, snake bite and lacerations – all necessary skills for a bushwalking group.

Particular emphasis was placed on CPR and the use of a defibrillator to treat cardiac arrest, with the variations required to assist young children, older children and teens and adults.

The final walk for June was a new one, discovering some of the history of Paterson, an historically important river port dating back to 1801.

“Perched on the side of the Paterson River, in the 1870s the town had four general stores, two butchers, a bakery, four blacksmiths, a tannery, a sawmill, two shipyards and five hotels plus a boarding school for girls,” Ray said.

“Later came a coach

depot, which is now the Paterson Tavern, an ideal spot for lunch.”

“The early-morning rain that day delayed the start of the adventure, but a large group made the trip anyway, only to meet more rain so, it was off to the tavern for an early lunch and afterwards, after more rain, a contracted tour of the town area before heading for home.”

The Thursday Walkers have another busy one planned for July, including Boat Harbour to look for whales, along the Humpback Highway, another new walk from Lorn to Bolwarra to discover the history of both, an extension of last month’s Hawks Nest Nature Walk, a trip down to Pindimar and, finally, Bather’s Way - from Queen’s Wharf to Merewether Beach.

Port Stephens Car Show attracts thousands

By Nico LOMBARDO

FOUR hundred custom cars, thousands of people, dozens of stalls and many special guests; on Sunday 12 July, Nelson Bay once again hosted the yearly Port Stephens Car Show to resounding success.

In what has been described as the highlight of the Winterfest, car owners from all over the region got to showcase their vehicles in

the streets surrounding the marina.

There was plenty to look at for everyone, with machines ranging from modern to historical, a few DeLoreans, and even a Batmobile replica.

Australian motorsport legend John Bowe was one of the special guests of the event, and he was more than happy to chat with fellow enthusiasts about his passion for racing.

Mr Bowe was also surprised at the sheer size of the exhibition.

“Three months ago I didn’t know anything about it, and now it’s huge, it’s mind blowing,” he said.

“The whole thing has been a very uplifting experience. Lovely people, big cars, who couldn’t enjoy it?”

Other special guests included Porsche enthusiast Ron Goodman, who showed

By Dave RENEKE

Space travel no longer the stuff of Star Trek re-runs

THE dream of space travel, once confined to the realms of science fiction, is rapidly becoming a tangible reality.

In 2025, the space tourism industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with companies like Blue Origin leading the charge.

The recent Katy Perry all-girl

mission has not only captivated the public’s imagination but also paved the way for a future where space travel is as commonplace as a plane journey.

This isn’t just about billionaires escaping Earth’s gravity for a few fleeting minutes. We are at the dawn of a new era - one where space is no longer the exclusive domain of astronauts or scientists but a destination open to curious civilians, adventurers, and even vacationers.

What was once the stuff of Star Trek and Asimov novels is quickly becoming part of our everyday lexicon: spaceports, suborbital flights, zero-gravity lounges, and lunar resorts.

The initial phase of space tourism has been largely suborbital flights that shoot passengers just past the boundary of space, letting them float in microgravity and glimpse the curvature of Earth before returning home.

Blue Origin’s New Shepard and Branson’s Virgin Galactic are

off his collection, and pilot Matt Hall, who stunned guests with daring air stunts at 400 km/h over the Nelson Bay shore.

The event was a good time even for those less enthusiastic about cars, with plenty of food to go around, live music, family friendly activities and performances by the Marching Koalas and the Sydney Swing Katz.

Another highlight of the day was the Tennis Ball Run,

a spectacular raffle in which 4,000 tennis balls were released down a hill.

All the profits from the raffle will go to the Mark Hughes Foundation, a charity active in the fight against brain cancer.

The best vehicles exhibited were awarded prizes, but school children had the chance to participate too with the cardboard “Green Machine” competition, which was

won by the small Salt Ash Public School for the second consecutive year.

After the extraordinary turnout of this third edition of the Port Stephens Car Show, many locals are curious to see how the exhibition will outdo itself in the future.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson shared her confidence that the show would “get bigger and better year on year.”

perfecting this quick-hop model, and demand is already high, with passenger rosters filling up months in advance.

But the next generation of travel is orbital - and beyond. SpaceX, with its Dragon capsule and upcoming Starship, is preparing for longer-duration flights, possibly circling Earth multiple times or ferrying tourists to lunar orbit.

Soon, we may board sleek, reusable rockets from dedicated spaceports, jetting off into the stratosphere with the same casual confidence we now step onto international flights.

Initially, the destination will be the journey: a few minutes in zero gravity, a view of the Earth no photograph can prepare you for.

But that’s just the beginning. Next stop? Earth orbit.

SpaceX and others are laying the groundwork for private missions to the International Space Station and eventually to other worlds.

Lunar bases are already on the

drawing board.

NASA's Artemis programme and various commercial partners are planning sustainable Moon habitats, which could be adapted for tourism.

Mars is a longer shot, perhaps though just a few decades away!

Space hotels are no longer scifi; they’re serious business.

Orbital Assembly Corporation plans to launch Voyager Station by the end of the decade, a rotating space station that mimics gravity via centrifugal force.

Aerospace firms are already designing luxury accommodations for low Earth orbit. These will cater to both short-term tourists and long-term researchers, blending adventure with comfort.

While big price tags remain steep, costs are dropping rapidly thanks to reusability, private competition, and maturing technology.

In the same way air travel evolved from an elite luxury to an everyday utility, space tourism is

following the same curve.

Analysts expect the market to grow into a multi-billion-dollar industry by the 2030s. It won’t be long before travel agencies offer "space vacation packages" and high schools run zero-gravity science camps.

It's closer than you think.

In 2024 alone, we saw multiple successful missions with civilian passengers.

By the end of the decade, regular orbital vacations and even lunar flybys could be a reality.

By 2040, it’s likely that the middle class will have viable options for saving or financing a trip to orbit.

The future isn’t just coming— it’s launching. The final frontier is open for business, and before long, space will be just another dot on the travel map.

A little farther than Paris or Tokyo, perhaps—but infinitely more awe-inspiring.

See Dave’s website: www. davidreneke.com:

Free breast checks in Bulahdelah

By Sis HIGGINS

MORE women in Bulahdelah will have easier access to free breast cancer screening when the BreastScreen NSW mobile screening van visits the town from 16 July to 24 July from 8.40am to 4pm.

The mobile clinic will be located outside Bulahdelah Community Hospital on Richmond Street, with one female radiographer working to provide the free mammograms.

Mammograms are free for eligible women without the need for a doctor's referral.

BreastScreen NSW Hunter New England Manager Rebecca Delaporte said regular screening plays a key role in detecting breast cancer early.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while

reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,” Ms Delaporte said.

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

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

Ms Delaporte said bringing the service to Bulahdelah removes barriers that can prevent women from attending their recommended screening appointments.

“Bringing these vital services to Bulahdelah means more local women can be screened.

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

Appointments are free, take less than 20 minutes and are recommended every two

years for women aged 50 to 74, although all women over 40 are eligible to attend.

BreastScreen NSW recommends Aboriginal women begin screening from age 40.

Women with a family history of breast cancer are encouraged to discuss their individual screening needs with their GP, while anyone experiencing breast symptoms should seek medical advice without delay.

The mobile screening van is also equipped with a lift system to assist women with mobility issues or disability.

Women with additional support needs are encouraged to advise staff when making their booking.

The Hunter New England Breast Screen service travels to 52 destinations throughout the region.

After Bulahdelah the

Jasmine Christie wins Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship

By Nico LOMBARDO

FAÇON Magazine has announced artist Jasmine Christie as the winner of the 2026 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, awarding her with $10,000 to support her creative aspirations.

Hosted by the Murrook Cultural Centre, the Indigenous Storytellers Event was all about celebrating and supporting Indigenous creatives from across NSW, giving them the chance to be mentored by some of Australia’s top artists.

“Creatives are part of our DNA,” said Andrew

CEO of Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council.

“We are the fastestevolving people on the face of the planet, having gone from stone age to digital age, and we are the oldest living culture on the face of the planet. We’re the only people left with an intrinsic connection to an ancient period.”

The event marked its fourth edition and the celebrations were bigger than ever, with special guest Australian Idol Casey Donovan joining in for a performance after the Welcome to Country and the smoking ceremony.

“What began as an idea to support emerging First Nations creatives has grown into something truly special,” said Lara Lupish, founder and editor of the Façon Magazine.

The winner of the scholarship, Jasmine Christie, is a proud Palawa artist, who impressed the judges with her rich and layered paintings inspired by motherhood, healing, ancestry, and shared experiences.

With the $10,000 scholarship, Ms Christie plans to support the development and expansion of her current body of work, purchasing high-quality materials and accessing studios to continue her

creative journey.

The eight other finalists, who had been selected across a variety of differing disciplines, received a $1,000 cash prize, and all their works were exhibited to the public.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson congratulated all the finalists, praising their role in preserving Indigenous history.

“Your exceptional talent, passion, and dedication are demonstrated throughout your work,” Mayor Anderson said.

“And you’re not just creating beautiful things, you’re preserving history, and you’re challenging perspectives. You’re keeping the sacred tradition of storytelling alive and thriving, and you should all be very proud.”

The squid mystery remains

Stinker's Stories

By John 'Stinker' CLARKE

I WAS reading through some old articles I wrote years ago when I came across this story of squid.

I can clearly recall when catching squid did not offer a challenge. Anywhere from Kiddies Corner in Fingal, south to Big Rocky, squid could be found in every protected bay.

Simply by tossing out a squid jig and slowly retrieving resulted in an immediate strike, where a squid would grab the jig and take off in the opposite direction.

Once near the boat or shoreline, other

accompanying squid could be seen chasing the jig.

The following story tells of the simplicity to catch squid.

The big question now is –where are the squid? Where have they gone?

There are a few odd catches being reported but nothing like it was in the good old days.

***

TIME to dust off the “Squidometer” as the slippery customers cruise into the quiet bays from Tomaree to Rocky Point before entering the port and resting over the weed beds in Shoal Bay.

Thumping green-eyed squid love this place, particularly Shark Bay off the Outer Light, the southern bay on Boondelbah Island and Esmeralda Cove on Broughton.

Not what you would call a real challenge, squid simply cannot resist a prawn jig

moving past their noses at a gentle walking pace.

They do show surprising pace as they zoom towards the jig before striking with their candles – long tentacle-like extensions.

Once “hooked” on the jig they attempt to swim away in steady, jerky movements.

What is required, when you have one on your line, is to maintain pressure without pulling too hard, as it is possible to break the tentacles off.

As the cranky squid nears the boat or rock that you are standing on – look out! These strange creatures have an amazing ability to squirt you with a black, gooey mixture that is common to their cousins, octopus and cuttlefish.

I’ve tried everything possible to avoid being “inked” however to date I have not discovered any way to get out of the road.

My only advice is to wear a black shirt and don’t worry about it.

Once caught the fun really starts.

To clean a squid is no simple task but it is important that you save the head and gut section as it

is sensational snapper and mulloway bait.

The washed canopy is generally sliced into rings in preparation for the kitchen.

Crumbed, salt and peppered or simply tossed on the BBQ, calamari is great tucker.

Here’s a tip – the big squid can be a bit on the tough side. To tenderise them, cover the squid rings with blended kiwi fruit for no more than 30 minutes. You will be surprised at how tender the squid will become.

If you have any ideas as to the disappearance of squid send me your thoughts: stinkerfishing@yahoo.com

Be alert but not alarmed

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

IT’S about this time of the year that we all become increasingly jumpy at the prospect of coming face-toface with a creature from the deep.

Port Stephens has a long history involving sharks.They were so common in the 1930s that an industry was based in Pindimar to catch and process sharks for their oil, skin, fins and meat.

After catching more than 20,000 sharks the business closed down because there were very few sharks remaining.

Our pioneering fishermen will all tell you that sharks were so common that all fishing boats carried a gun.

The water around the Fishermans Coop in Nelson Bay was a favoured shark gathering spot where they could be seen cruising around the boats searching for an easy feed.

I am regularly asked: "Are there many sharks around Port Stephens?"

The answer is: "Yes, there are, not as many as there were."

Just about every boatowning fisherman that I know has either sighted or had an encounter with a shark and the mullet-haulers on Fingal Beach last season were continually harassed by a school of the big predators.

My message is: learn to live with sharks rather than becoming paranoid and terrified of the big fish.

I oppose any culling and it is interesting to note that the Port Stephens beaches from Boxy to Birubi have never been netted in 150 years and we have never had a fatal shark attack.

Yes, there have been serious shark incidents that are unfortunate, however my feeling is that we remain aware of the presence of sharks but don't overreact.

Victims of Crime Commissioner will advocate for rights and reforms

NEW South Wales will soon have its first independent Victims of Crime Commissioner, who will identify systemic issues in the NSW justice system and advocate for reforms that deliver better outcomes.

This will include promoting consistent treatment of victims through the Charter of Victims’ Rights and identifying areas where government agencies can work together more effectively and improve practices.

The Commissioner will also be responsible for establishing a new

complaints handling framework, which will provide certainty to victims of crime about how complaints will be managed.

The framework will empower the Commissioner to resolve complaints through practical actions, including recommending agencies apologise to complainants or review policies and procedures.

The appointment of the new Commissioner, Hannah Damkar, has been approved by the State Government and will be formalised by the NSW Governor.

Ms Damkar will be

appointed for a five-year term from 30 July 2026, and brings extensive public sector experience supporting victim-survivors and communities through major crises.

“Ms Damkar’s appointment as Victims of Crime Commissioner is a significant step to strengthen support and advocacy for victimsurvivors,” said Kate Washington MP, acting attorney general and Member for Port Stephens.

“We have heard from victims of crime who have felt voiceless in systems that are meant to deliver them justice, so we've acted.

“Our new Victims of

Crime Commissioner will give victims the voice they deserve.”

Ms Damkar has coordinated government recovery efforts, community support and engagement following tragedies including the Greta bus crash and the Bondi Junction attack, and has significant experience working with people affected by domestic and family violence.

Most recently, she served as Deputy Coordinator General for the NSW Government's response to the Bondi Beach terror attack in December.

In that role, she worked closely with victims to navigate support

services and ensure their experiences helped shape the NSW Government's response, including financial assistance packages.

She was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2023 in recognition for outstanding public service during the New South Wales 2019 – 2020 bushfires, COVID-19 pandemic and Northern Rivers floods.

Ms Damkar has served in various roles across the NSW Public Sector for over a decade, including the NSW Bushfire Recovery Taskforce, Resilience NSW and Transport for NSW.

The legislation to establish the role of

the Victims of Crime Commissioner passed in October 2025, as the Minns Labor Government took the first step to fulfilling its election commitment to create the victim advocate role.

The Office of the Commissioner will sit within the NSW Premier’s Department, while the Department of Communities and Justice will continue to administer the Victims Support Scheme and register for victims of forensic patients. The Commissioner will also appoint a new Victims Advisory Committee to replace the existing Victims Advisory Board.

TOP FLIGHT

By John EDWARDS

MOTHER-and-son duo Lyn and Matt Peirson emerged as winners at the Hawks Nest Social Club Thursday Night Darts competition after a playoff between two previously undefeated teams.

Christine McKenzie and Daren Rapley finished as runners-up following a closely contested evening of darts.

Sharon Carter recorded the ladies' highest score with 90, while Wayne Sullivan topped the men's scores with an impressive 121.

Thursday night darts are held each week at Hawks Nest Social Club, with names to be in by 6.45pm for a 7pm start. New and experienced players are all welcome to come along and join in.

Surf club grants available

NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs can now apply for a share of $5.5 million through the NSW Government’s Surf Club

Facility Program, to upgrade, rebuild or future-proof the facilities that keep our beaches safe.

COME, PLAY, REST

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 20

sessions and no previous experience or special equipment helping attract newcomers.

"Tea Gardens Soccer Club introduced Walking Football at the beginning of the 2025 soccer season," Mr Reynolds said.

"It has proved so popular that nearing the end of that season, the players all voted to continue playing through summer, and a twilight season was developed to cater for the demand through the warmer months."

"With well in excess of 50 players signing up in the first year, the offer of a free comeand-try day to everyone and no special sports gear or

Bulahdelah Golf Club News

By Thora-Lou SMITH

WEDNESDAY 1st July was a Stableford event for the ladies, and Barbie Gordon was the winner with 31pts from Terry Stellema with 28pts. Barbie doubled up on Saturday 4th July, Tea Gardens Country Club Bowling Club

By Lynda RICHARDS

TUESDAY 7th July: No bowls played due to rain. Wednesday 8th July: Unbelievably it didn't rain and 44 bowlers enjoyed

experience required, the game has grown from strength to strength."

Games are played on smaller fields with mixed teams selected each week from those who attend.

Matches are made up of two 15 to 20-minute halves with unlimited substitutions, allowing players to participate at their own pace.

Mr Reynolds said the appeal extends beyond the football itself.

"Not only the game is enjoyed by all who attend but there is a social aspect during and after the games that has resulted in new friendships and social connections being made every game day, not to mention the mental stimulation and great exercise."

winning with 35pts from Alison Benson with 34pts. Thursday 2nd July was the Vets' Monthly Mug (or Monthly Mud as some would say). 31 players sloshed around and the winner was Ray Mansell with 79nett from Peter Norman with 72nett and Craig Littlechild with 74nett. Dave Kerr was not only a great day of bowling but a lunch of beef soup and fresh bread rolls. Many thanks to Master Chef Craig McDonald and his helpers Les Smith and Jim Rutherford. The morning winners were Graham Uff, Geoff Paige and Dave Ransom, afternoon games won by

three categories, including design and planning.

The program backs projects from concept to completion, with grants of up to $1 million available across

He said the club's motto summed up the relaxed approach: "Come when you can, Play when you want, Rest when you need.

This year's funding round has a focus on climate resilience, ensuring clubs can withstand extreme weather and severe storm events, as

“The oldest participant is a lady 84 years young,” Mr Reynolds said.

While most players are aged between 60 and 75, many are returning to football for the first time since their school days.

Walking football is a

well as boosting participation so more people from all backgrounds can get involved in surf life saving. Applications for Category 1 close 1pm Monday, 17 August 2026. Applications for Categories 2 and 3 close 1pm Monday, 31 August 2026. For further information and to apply visit: https:// www.nsw.gov.au/grants-andfunding

modified, non-contact version of the game designed to improve physical and mental wellbeing. Players must always have one foot on the ground, there is no heading, and the focus remains on enjoyment, exercise and making new friends.

Football NSW supports programs for players aged 50 years and over across metropolitan and regional communities.

SPORT RESULTS

the best putter with only 27putts. NTPs were Toby Carroll, Lou Smith, Stewart McNaughton and Ray Mansell. No birdie putts this week. Long drivers were Toby Carroll, Kevin Martin and Paul Long. Steve Hoad visited us from Woy Woy.

Craig Littlechild was the A grade winner on Saturday

Graham Lainy, Geoffrey Muggleton and Mark Hair. Dennis Ashbridge, Mark Nightingale and Craig Benson were the overall winners. Welcome to our new member Graham Lainy.

Thursday 9th July: Mixed bowls postponed due to rain.

Sunday 12th July :

4th July with 37pts. Ryan McSweeny was the B grade winner with 38pts from Geoff Matheson with 37pts. Terry Griffis was the C grade winner with 41pts from Joel Slack with 35pts on a c/b from Charlie Matheson. Max Schlenert, Kevin Styles and Barbie Gordon (x2) got the NTPs. Long drivers were Max 18 bowlers braved the variable weather conditions thankfully the sun was shining most of the time. Format for play 3 bowl Triples 12 ends, the winners by drawing a card were Lon Richards, Lynda Richards and Graham Uff.

Coming events: July/ August proves to be a busy

Schlenert, Zac Watt, Charlie Matheson and Bernie Newton. Geoff Harvey won the jackpot.

The golf news for last week is that there's no news! The course was closed all week due to the on-going wet weather. The players are all hoping for a drier week ahead.

Congratulations to the month of bowling; please put your name down on the appropriate sheet which are on the notice boards in the bowl area of the club if you are interested in participating in any of the following: Saturday 25th July

Shirts v Skirts, Tuesday 28th July the annual

Tennis Club who celebrated 60 years of tennis at the Prince Street courts on 12th July with a birthday party that attracted more than 100 past and present players. Many Bulahdelah folk are proud members and supporters of both clubs. Well done to the organisers, volunteers and helpers.

Ladies RSL Pairs, Saturday 1st August Tea Gardens members v Hawks Nest members, Tuesday 4th August Ladies Minor Pairs Competition round 1, Saturday 8th August Taree Travelling Bowlers visitation and finally the Mixed Pairs will commence on Saturday 15th August.

Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Verse of the week

By Lynne MILES

Have Your Say

News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the editor around available space, relevance and appropriateness. media@newsofthearea.com.au

The Write Direction

By John BLACKBOURN

OVERSEAS travel is a bonus for many, but was a way of life for me.

It was a necessary factor in my line of business as the best way for me to expand opportunities when advising clients in my professional practice.

It was therefore somewhat of a shock to see that the number one travel booking agency, which is based in Holland, was coming under attack in Europe.

This follows Booking.com advising me by email that some 15,000 clients who use them regularly have been accessed by scammers and that detailed parts of my information have been obtained by the scammers.

This has resulted in me receiving scam attempts by telephone several times each day, which my telco provider and I are unable to block.

Like everything that you do

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

I AM a Doctor of Philosophy. When my husband and I recently travelled interstate, he put my title down as Doctor for our booking. I was unaware of this until the boarding staff greeted me as Doctor Ronstad, wishing me a good flight and thanking me for being on board. I was also moved to a better seat, offered more wine than other passengers, and generally treated like a person of substance for the first time in my flying life. Should I continue to use this title in the future?

G. Ronstad.

Dear Dr Ronstad,

MAY I call you that?

The title of doctor brings with it certain expectations.

Though I am not discounting the many years of study involved in attaining your Doctorate of Philosophy, there is a level of presumption involved when there is a doctor on board a flight.

Flight attendants receive extensive training, making mental

online, there is a cost, usually hidden, for any service.

I love the ability to book accommodation and trips online from home, where the cost is known and can be cross-checked, with the added benefit that you can cancel without cost up to 24 hours before the booking commences.

The issue is not only in Europe, where the company is now being sued, but also in Australia, where users are finding the hidden costs to be prohibitive.

It is said that the hidden fees for this service are at least 15 percent, but in some cases as high as 30 percent, and these costs

notes of who is boarding the plane.

They keep their eye out for strapping young men (or women) who will be helpful in an emergency; anxious flyers, who will want to jump out of the plane during periods of turbulence; the elderly and infirm, who may require additional assistance; the sporting teams, who want to get out of their seats at regular intervals.

They also look out for medical practitioners, who may be particularly useful during a mid-flight emergency.

That is the category, Dr Ronstad, that the attendants put you in. They greeted you with enthusiasm and gave you extra attention because they knew they would be able to call on you if Mary Smith in row three had a stroke, or Peter Howard in row 22 knocked himself out while trying to get his bag out of the overhead locker.

As you would know, Dr Ronstad, the doctoral requirement for original research means that PhD subject matter is increasingly obscure, and though important in certain contexts, it has limited applicability to most situations (including life or death ones).

It also has limited social cache at dinner parties, where you will be asked about your research topic by well-meaning types with the query quickly followed by a glazed expression and a polite conversational segue, like, 'Is that a cob loaf?', but I digress.

are regularly the same for both the client and the service provider being booked.

These fees are said to generate some $700 million in revenue each year for the company, an outstanding amount.

The game is to get what you pay for, and no one is holding a gun to your head when it comes to booking accommodation or services online.

From what I am reading, the issue covers many aspects, such as unfair contracts for suppliers, price parity clauses that create misuse of market power, and the legal powers held by our ACCC, which could

A quick review of some recent doctoral theses highlights the issue.

While no doubt of great interest to the author, ‘An ideotype of a short-season, late-sown wheat for a changing Australian climate’ or ‘A Kauwhau Whakapapa Reading of Genesis 49:1-50:14’, or ‘Molecular insights into oyster neuroendocrine control of gonal maturation’, are areas of analysis that are not going to help when you are escorted out of your seat to deliver an onboard tracheostomy using nothing more than a wooden fork, a drop-down oxygen mask and some hand sanitiser.

For this reason, Dr Ronstad, may I suggest that your husband puts you down as plain old Mrs Ronstad for future flights.

Though it doesn't carry the same level of prestige, you will be able to enjoy your flight, relaxed in the knowledge that you have not been misidentified as a medical expert.

Instead, you will have hours to ponder new research questions.

Perhaps you could make preliminary notes as to why interstate flights offer Beef Rendang as the only lunch option on a plane with 485 passengers and two toilets?

That question certainly kept me occupied (along with both toilets) on my last flight.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

be used if it finds companies are abusing the Consumer Act 2010.

The rights and wrongs of pricing tourism-related fees and services are now to be tested through legal processes, but the tightening conditions of the Australian economy are proving to be an incentive for people to become more selective and price-conscious when spending their travel dollars.

I only book flights directly with the airline selected, after investigating all pricing options openly available on comparison websites.

It's a safer way of doing business.

Most farmers support renewable energy

DEAR News Of The Area, THE media narrative suggesting regional people oppose renewable energy projects when the data unarguably shows the opposite is now the subject of a published academic paper ("Growing discontent on data centres as farmers fear renewable rollout repeat, The Land, 7/6).

Poll after poll after poll, from Porter Novelli, 89 Degrees East, CSIRO and more, all find huge support for local clean energy

projects with opposition much less (but amplified by media coverage and social media algorithms that promote conflict).

Recent polling in April showed overall local support for clean energy projects at 63 per cent and opposition at 17 per cent. In coal regions, Hunter showed support of 60 per cent and opposition at 17 per cent, Gladstone showed support of 65 per cent and opposition of 17per cent, and the Latrobe Valley showed support of 60 per cent and opposition

at 18 per cent. In Illawarra the support was 68 per cent and the opposition 12 per cent, Central West Orana support was at 60 per cent and opposition at 20 per cent; in western Victoria the support was 69 per cent and opposition was 12 per cent. Even in New England, support held strong at 55 per cent with opposition less than half that figure at 24 per cent.

Professor Rebecca Colvin's peer-reviewed paper, published in Science Direct, finds that in addition to social media and media

promoting conflict, people are more likely to speak up against things than for them.

Farmers for Climate Action represents 8000 farmers across Australia. Our "Billions in the Bush" report found Australian farmers are on track to make a billion dollars in total from clean energy rent by 2030.

Modern solar contracts pay up to $1500 per hectare per year while the farmer continues to graze sheep underneath.

Modern wind farms typically

pay $40,000 per wind turbine per year in rent to the farmer, while cattle and sheep continue to graze around it.

Hosting solar and wind projects is entirely voluntary and how a farmer chooses to farm on their land is their choice.

If farmers do not stay united around that principle, farming will become very difficult.

Regards,

Verity Morgan-Schmidt, CEO, Farmers for Climate Action.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR APPOINTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER GROUP MEMBERS TO THE SEAHAM QUARRY COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

Do you want to contribute to your community? Community Consultative Committees work to improve engagement on State significant projects.

The committee for the SEAHAM QUARRY (the project) will provide a forum for open dialogue between the proponent, Boral Resources (NSW) Pty Ltd and representatives of the local community, stakeholder groups and local council on issues directly relating to the project. Further details of the project can be found on the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure major projects website https:// www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/ seaham-quarry-project

We are looking for a mix of volunteers who live or work locally, may be impacted by the project or are members of a local community or stakeholder group (for example Aboriginal, environmental, social or industry) to join our new SEAHAM QUARRY Community Consultative Committee*. As a volunteer committee member, you will be expected to contribute constructively to committee discussions, attend an estimated four meetings a year, and communicate information about the project to the committee and the broader community.

For more information, contact Michael Ulph at Michael.ulph@bigpond.com or on 0458 049 847.

If you would like to apply, please address the selection criteria found in the nomination form at www.planning.nsw. gov.au/assess-and-regulate/development-assessment/ community-consultative-committees .

Completed nomination forms and a supporting letter must be sent by Friday 7 August 2026 to the independent chairperson of the Community Consultative Committee: Michael Ulph at Michael.ulph@bigpond.com

* Please note that employees and contractors of the proponent are generally not eligible for appointment to the committee as a community representative.

Wanted to Buy

Antique china & figurines, Sterling silver items, old gold jewellery, wind-up watches & pocket watches, silver proof coin sets. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747 War Medals Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215

TWO seater lounge OZ Design, fabric, VGC 0429 990 351

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

ELECTRIC chair, does eveything. 2 seater lounge. Ph 0402 207 519 F080126

SINGLE bed with some single bed linen included. Medowie Ph 0423 688 327

TABLE tennis table with accessories. Ph 0427 970 636

and hutch $100. Ph 0429 945 604

FISHER Price walkers x 3. $20 each. Ph 0432 050 619

MENS top quality leather jacket with detachable liner. Purchased in Turkey, as new, suits 40” chest, dark brown. $99 0419 932 992

FRIDGE, 4 door with water dispenser, ice maker, spill proof, ex cond, make an offer Ph 0493 777 707

CHINA cabinet display unit, 3 glass shelves and storage at bottom. $50 Ph 0403 632 701

GLASS bottles with lids, suitable for pickles preserves etc., Ph 0458 693 754

GLASS turbo oven $20; RUSSELL Hobbs Electric steamer $20 LARGE outdoor table $20. 0432 671 259 F241025

MICROWAVE, Omega chrome & black, GC $100. 0493 777 707 F270226

NAHWAL tusk, make an offer Ph 0493 777 707

NEW Levi Jeans, size 8, with tags, $30 Ph 0493 777 707 F290126

OUTDOOR coffee table new in box. Top black durostone 93 x 93cm Freedom range. 45cm H $55 4981 2713

For Sale

hand sewing machines x 2, antique Make an offer. 4982 3495

WOMEN’S new jumper M-L. $20. Ph 0493 777 707

SNOW chains. Never used. Suit 13-inch wheels. $80. Peter 0419 932 992

SOFA bed vgc double $50 Ph 4982 2335 F060325

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

DINGHY fiberglass 2.5m (L) x 1.3m (W) + 2.5

2 x cane chest of drawers (L) 70cm H x 36cm D x 36cm W, $15. (S) 66cm H x 35cm D x 26cm W $10. 3 drawers each 4982 8787

F240925

COAT, ladies, new Medium. $50. Ph 0493 777 707

newsofthearea.com.au

COCA-COLA

Memorabilia Collection

$95. 0409 863 898

COFFEE table, hand crafted, mahogany $100. 0493 777 707

COLLECTORS cards 54 Space Odbodz $100 Ph 0493 777 707

ANTIQUE Skillion over the hooks pendulum weighing scale for cattle $90. Ph 6585 7393 F100426PMCH

BUDGIES - 4 budgies in bird cage. $50. 0418 272 304

lillies, burgandy and

leaf w/peach flowers. $5ea 0477 827 291 e160726

BIKE safety helmets for kids x 3. $20 each Ph 0432 050 619

BOOTS, leather, ladies made in Canada. EUC $60 4982 8787

COMMODE chair w/ pan. $25. Pick up Tea Gardens. Ph 0417 404 530

CURTAIN and rod in original packaging. $70 Oslo pencil pleated curtain 270 - 340 x 250cm, colour stone Ph 0417 044 660

CURTAIN rods and tracks plus all fittings. 5 straight rods for windows 118-164cm plus bay window track and rod for 219cm and 5 other tracks. All in good cond $60. Ph 0410 275 495 F110626

DINING table $30. Ph 0429 945 604

DINING table, stainless steel legs. $100. 0493 777 707

DOONA, new with valance, new with cushions $100 Ph 0493 777 707 F290126

DVDs x 250, exc cond great variety. $100 the lot. 0439 440 112

HEDGE trimmer Ryobi, 18v 60cm w/ sweeper. $80. Ph 0408 945 040

HOMER Simpson Framed Picture, New $100. 0493 777 707

IRON for clothing, brand new, GC. 0493 777 707

KIDS’ clothing, various sizes, great cond, some new. N’born to size 8. $20 Ph 0432 050 619 F110626

LADIES ankle boots tan, size 6, BNIB $10. Ph 4982 8628 F110626

LADIES clothes, new size 16-20, 3 bags, make an offer 0493 777 707

LADIES clothes - pants dresses, blousees. Sizes 12-14 new and near new. Make an offer. Ph 0419 409 913

LAMPS large, new worth $600 selling for $100. Ph 0493 777 707

LEATHER coat, mens Made in AU. $95. 0428 287 239

LIFEJACKETS PFD Level 50. Adults $50 Juniors $40. Good used cond. Located in HN. 0493 078 190

HEATER . $5. Used working condition Ph 4982 9225 F280526 LP records, large mixed collection. Ph 0428 567 653 for info

OUTDOOR setting New, make an offer ph 0493 777 707 F041225

OUTDOOR setting 8 piece, glass top cushioned seats, good condition. $80. Pick up only. Ph 0409 877 099

TOILET seat aid to increase seat height for disabled or eldery. $40 Ph 0427 122 098

QUINTREX Eclipse 3.15m traveller, 4m galvanised trailer, reg S42731, 10” spare wheel water snake 12v motor 2 lifejackets, plus more $2400. Ph 0407 095 748

PAINTING of vase & flowers, framed, 4ft x 2.5ft. $100. 0493 777 707

PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1,800 ono. 0498 176 876

PIRATE ship - water activity for children. $80 Ph 0432 050 619

PNEUMATIC tyres x 6 on 10” diameter rims off tandem boat trailer $90. 0419 932 992

PRINTER Cartridges x2 suitable for Brother printers $20.00 for both. 0418 603 286

QUEEN quilt, with butterfly print & matching pillowcases. $60. Ph 0466 880 639

RIPSTIK, near new $45 Peter 0419 932 992 BOOTS, ladies, new

MATTRESS, suitable for caravan w/extension as new, VGC. $100ono Ph 0402 081 752

SAND anchor, galv unused. $50. Peter 0419 932 992

SIDE Steps x 2, suit 91 Nissan Patrol, with brackets. $80. 0435 580 192

TYRE and rim for wheelbarrow, 10” Pneumatic. $40. 0419 932 992

Caravans

WALKER - 4 wheel Aspire with tray table Perfect condition. Near new. Ph 0408 431 488 $100 F190326

WALT Disney, black & white, 8mm movie ‘The Grocery Boy’ in original box $80. 0416 089 747

machine

Good cond.

2006 Supreme Territory 18ft offroad pop-top w/ full annex, exc. cond Reg S87771. $21,000 ono Ph 0405 221 590

Paykel top loader

JAYCO Swift 2019 exc cond., 1 owner full service records many extras (e.g., TV and antenna) Easily towed with a car Reg TF28JW. $15,000 ono. Ph 0450 069 155

WETSUIT, waterproof welded seams, O’Neil 3/2mm, L/S, new cond $80. 0421 286 861

WIGGLES chest of drawers. $60. Ph 0432 050 619

TV unit , new, $100 ph 0493 777 707 RV TV antenna digital upgrade kit Wineguard retrofit in box. $100. Ph 0407 461 464

WINDSURFING carbon boom. Chinook. $80 Peter 0419 932 992 F091025

WINDSURFING sail in new condition, 9m2 Used 3 times. $90. Peter 0419 932 992

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

THE EXPANSE

SBS VICELAND, 9pm

Science fiction enthusiasts may have already seen this outer-space saga, which premiered on Netflix in Australia, but for any who haven’t tuned into the acclaimed drama, SBS has you covered. Just be sure to put the phone down – this is not a secondscreen show. Based on the series of novels by James S.A. Corey, it’s set hundreds of years in the future and follows detective Josephus Miller (Thomas Jane, pictured) who joins forces with a rogue commander (Steven Strait) to unravel a mystery involving a missing woman.

FRIDAY, July 17

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. (Final) Monty Don travels across the southwest of Britain.

8.30 Saint-Pierre. (Mav) When a billionaire is found decapitated, Fitz and Arch dig into the victim’s family.

9.15 Gruen. (Final, PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

9.55 Would I Lie To You?

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R)

12.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

SUNDAY

TREASURE & DIRT

ABC TV, 8.30pm

The locals in Nulla aren’t afraid of anything – least of all law enforcement. The dust-choked opal-mining town in the middle of the Outback does things differently, as big-city detective Ivan Lucic (Michael Dorman, Territory) is about to discover in this unmistakably Australian crime thriller. Teamed up with ambitious rookie Nell Buchanan (Liv Hewson, pictured) to investigate the grisly beheading of a miner, Lucic doesn’t receive a warm welcome when he breezes onto the scene. Based on the novel by Chris Hammer (Scrublands) and filmed in the striking landscape of Coober Pedy, this intriguing mystery hides its secrets both above and below the surface.

TUESDAY

KITCHEN CABINET

ABC TV, 8.30pm

In the 15 years Annabel Crabb (pictured) has been catching up with Australian politicians for a personal sit-down in this popular interview series, she’s broken bread with prime ministers past, present and future – but one kitchen has escaped her reach: The Lodge. The journo jumps at the chance to visit the Georgian revival mansion in Canberra, where Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has offered to host her for a lunch of orecchiette pasta with broccolini and anchovies. Their playful chat, while Albo cooks in the grand home’s commercialstyle kitchen, covers his childhood in Camperdown, his downtime with wife Jodie and how 30 years in federal politics prepared him for the country’s top job.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. The weekly winners return.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Trade Secret: The Polar Bear Market. Three unlikely allies try to protect polar bears. 9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 13.

2.30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (R)

4.20 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. (R) 4.50 Haka Warriors 2023. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 MOVIE: The Spiderwick Chronicles. (2008, PG) 9.10 Caper Crew. 10.00 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 19. Sydney v Adelaide. From the SCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa, R) Jason and Zac head into final dates.

1.35 ICU. (PGa, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 20. Sydney Roosters v Melbourne Storm. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.

10.45 NRL Origin Story. (Ml, R) Looks at the original “Origin” rule.

11.55 Resident Alien. (Msv, R) 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)

9GEM (82)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Motor Racing. FIA

Escape To The Country. 11.00 Late Programs.

Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham

DRAMA (51)

Hawks Nest Bridge Club

By Diane RUSSELL

10th JULY.

Monday: N/S 1. C Richards & S Matheson, 2. J Whalan & B Treharne, 3. G Smith & L Wood.

E/W 1. J Patfield & L Howarth, 2. S Bowen & A Ryan, 3. L Hulme & L Winter. Tuesday: N/S 1. P & B Ness, 2. E Buckpitt & D Russell, 3. D Dummett & N Partridge.

SPORT RESULTS

E/W 1. B Murray & J Urquhart, 2. K McMurray & G Muggleton, 3. A & J Macintosh.

Wednesday: 1. S Pearson & M Rowden, 2. A Ryan & E White, 3=. K McMurray & D Hipkins, 3=. D Ahmling & S Robinson. Friday: N/S 1. C Rands & L Falla, 2. J Whalan & C Richards, 3. T & J Thatcher. E/W 1. S Pearson & M Rowden, 2. E & A Greenhalgh, 3. P & B Gibbs.

ADVERTISING

Advertising within the News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call (02) 4981 8882 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au

SATURDAY, July 18

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Cooper & Fry. (Ma, R) 2.00 Saint-Pierre. (Mav, R) 2.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 3.40 Griff’s Canadian Adventure. (PG, R) 4.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.35 Landline. (R)

6.05 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

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 Cooper & Fry. (Ma) When a man is found beaten to death, Cooper and Fry travel to a village fighting for survival.

9.05 Doc Martin. (PG, R) Martin attends Stewart’s survival course, but not as a participant like Al and Penhale.

9.50 The Capture. (Final, MA15+v, R) An impossible situation awaits Carey as she is drawn deeper into Simon’s insidious plan. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 3.50 Odd Squad. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Tummy Tom And The Lost Teddy Bear. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Chopped Junior. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Abbott Elementary. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.10 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (PG, R) 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 Mother Of Chooks. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PGa, R) 4.20 Wogball: Australia’s Beautiful Game. (PGal, R) 5.30 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean: Corsica. (PGa) A look at life on the French island of Corsica.

8.25 Sagrada Familia: Gaudi’s Challenge. (R) A look at Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 14.

2.05 Underground Army. (Ma, R)

3.55 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.55 Beautiful Game Changers. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

The Expanse. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final. England v Argentina. Replay. 2.30am NHK World English News. 5.00

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SUNDAY, July 19

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. (Final, R) 2.30 Race Around The World. (PG, R) 3.30 The Assembly. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs. (R) 5.00 Back Roads. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. Lucinda travels to France.

8.30 Treasure & Dirt. (Premiere) Two detectives arrive in a remote opal town to investigate the beheading of a local miner.

9.30 Believe Me. (Premiere) The victims of a serial rapist fight for justice.

10.20 Cooper & Fry. (Ma, R) 11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.45 Poh’s Kitchen On The Road. (R)

3.10 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Isadora Moon. 3.50 Odd Squad. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Superworm. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. 8.10 Epic Adventures With Bertie Gregory. 8.50 Animal Park. 10.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 11.00 Late Programs.

Myall Coast Vets

By Tony SMITH

9/07/2026. STABLEFORD. A Grade 1. Don McGill 34 c/b 2. Rod Brown 34 3. Brian Newbery 33

Grade

Tony Smith 32 c/b

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Wknd. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Winter Challenge Day and VRC Members Race Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team explores fairytale castles in France.

8.30 MOVIE: Jurassic Park III. (2001, Mv, R) A rescue team is sent to Jurassic Park. Sam Neill, William H. Macy.

10.20 MOVIE: Cocaine Bear. (2023, MA15+dv)

12.20 MOVIE: The Good Sister. (2014, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

7TWO (62)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Surfing Australia. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Canberra Raiders v Roosters. 2.30 NRLW Wrap.

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby Union. Nations Championship. Round 3. Australia v Italy.

10.00 Nations Championship: Australia v Italy Post-Match.

10.30 MOVIE: Three Kings. (1999, MA15+alsv, R)

12.45 The First 48. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Surfing Australia TV. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) Sao and Chrissy are struggling with two mortgages and want to sell so they can start fresh with their beloved pets. 9.40 Ambulance UK. (Mlm, R) An advanced paramedic responds to reports of a man found lying facedown in the road. A call handler deals with a verbally abusive patient who has called the service 35 times in the past year.

12.00 FBI. (Mals, R) Maggie partners with Eva to hunt a killer. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

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6.00 DW English News. 6.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Third place play-off. 9.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final. ENG v ARG. Replay. 1.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Third place play-off. Replay. 4.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 4.30 Building The Snowy. (PG, R) 5.30 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eiffel Tower: Life Behind The Scenes: Pt 3. (PG) Looks at the preparation of the Bastille Day fireworks.

8.30 Structures Of Marvel: Medieval Paris. (R) Takes a look at how Paris’s Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie, two parts of the former royal palace of Palais des Rois, are among the most impressively constructed buildings remaining from the Middle Ages.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 15.

2.25 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

3.25 Beautiful Game Changers: Gel Freire – Keeping Brazil Close. (R)

3.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Final.

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Morning Programs. 3.55pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 14. Highlights. 4.55 PBS Washington Week. 5.15 PBS News Compass Points. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.30 The Expanse. 10.25 Sports Gone Wrong. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Third place play-off. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.45 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 10.25 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 12.35pm Escape From New York. (1981, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 4.55 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.35 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 8.30 A Walk In The Clouds. (1995) 10.25 Paris, 13th District. (2021, MA15+, Mandarin) 12.25am Late Programs. 6am Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.50 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 8.45 A Walk In The Clouds. (1995) 10.40 Chain Reaction. (1996, M) 12.40pm Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.45 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 5.00 Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. (1989, PG) 6.40 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 8.30 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022) 10.30 The Rover. (2014, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs.

2. Colin Bell 32 3. Denis Casey 31 c/b C Grade 1. Peter Campbell 34 2. Steven Carruthers 32 c/b

3. Peter Parrett 32 NTP. A B C

3rd. Kerr, Bill Ward, Tony Forrest,

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Lady Torque TV. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Top Doorslammer. Round 2. Nitro Champs. 4.15 Surveillance Oz. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Counting Cars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. (2019, M) 10.15 MOVIE: Tower Heist. (2011,

6.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa, R) 4.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal)

8.50 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on major breaking news events and long-form investigations of national significance.

9.50 7NEWS: Disappearance Of William Tyrrell. (R) A continued look at the disappearance of William Tyrrell.

11.20 Police Custody USA. (Malv, R)

12.20 Angelyne. (Mls)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

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

4.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm

50 Years Of Star Trek. 3.30 MOVIE: The Cure. (1995, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Elf. (2003) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies. (2014, M) 10.20 The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power. 11.30 Prodigal Son. 1.15am MOVIE: A Savage Christmas. (2023, M) 3.10 MOVIE: Santa Hunters. (2024, PG) 5.10 LEGO Friends Holiday Special. 5.30 Barney’s World.

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John 5th Ward, Tony 10th Newbery, Brian Gibbs, Breton Parrett, Peter 16thBrown, Rod Ward, Tony Hudson, Keith Balls to. A 31 C/B B 29 C 28

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 LEGO Masters Bricktacular. (PG) The teams road-trip to the Bluey universe.

8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

9.30 9News Late.

10.00 The First 48: End Game. (Mav)

11.00 Love Cheats. (Mal)

11.50 Murder In The 21st. (Premiere, MA15+aa)

12.40 Running. Gold Coast Marathon. Highlights.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 CampByMe.

5.00 Today Early News.

5.30 Today.

Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 3. Newcastle Knights v St George Illawarra Dragons. 8.00 David Attenborough’s Asia. 9.10 Paramedics. 10.10 Emergency. 11.10 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.45pm MOVIE: The Pink Panther Strikes Again. (1976, PG) 2.55 MOVIE: Curse Of The Pink Panther. (1983, PG) 5.10 MOVIE: City Slickers. (1991, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Wild Hogs. (2007, M) 9.30 MOVIE: The Mask. (1994, PG) 11.35 Top 20 Funniest. 12.30am Arrow. 3.00 The Summit. 4.15 My Way. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Hop. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike.

Hawks Nest Vets By Len GOUGH ‘ 7/7/2026. HN VETS Stableford (Due to Weather only One nine played) Front Nine. Nett Scores

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

7.00 MasterChef Australia. (PG) Amateur cooks take to the kitchen. 8.15 Watson. (PGm) Watson and the fellows race against time to save the life of a 21-year-old athlete with a fastgrowing, seemingly incurable cancer. 9.15 FBI. (Madv) The team investigates a drug trafficking crew when a robbery at a community clinic turns deadly and soon uncovers that the clinic’s doctor may be more involved than they initially thought. 12.00 10 News+. (R) 12.30 Home

SPORT RESULTS

Laurence Collison 19c/b

Errol Chivers 19c/b Balls down to 13c/b Nearest to Pin

Ross Hutchison 5th Paul Young Congratulations to our Alf Ziehlke Trophy Winners Winner :- Darell Scott Runner-up :- Robert Simmons

MONDAY, July 20

6.00

ABC

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Final. Replay.

9.30 Alone Australia. (R) Ten survivalists are taken to Sapmi, Finland, where they face a gruelling survival experiment.

11.45 Gomorrah. (Madl, R)

3.15 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (PG, R)

4.10 Hitler’s Putsch: Birth Of The Nazi Party. (PGa, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6am Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 8.10 Xanadu. (1980, PG) 10.05 The Eight Mountains. (2022, M) 12.45pm Goodbye Lenin! (2003, M, German) 3.00 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 4.55 Callie & Son. (1981, PG) 7.30 Our Ties. (2022, M, French) 9.10 From All Sides. (2024, MA15+) 11.25 White Squall. (1996, M) 1.50am Transcendence. (2014, M) 3.55 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022)

TUESDAY, July 21

6.00

5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 8.50 Ice Age. 9.35 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.00 BattleBots. 10.45 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory. 11.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Portugal With Michael Portillo. (PGan, R)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks into ultra-processed foods.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 16.

2.20 Anne Boleyn. (Masv, R)

3.10 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (PG, R)

4.10 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6am Callie & Son. (1981, PG) 8.30 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 10.20 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022) 12.20pm Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 2.00 Xanadu. (1980, PG) 3.50 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 5.40 The Comic. (1969, PG) 7.30 Godzilla Minus One. (2023, M, Japanese) 9.55 Bad Company. (1972, MA15+) 11.35 End Of Watch. (2012, MA15+) 1.35am Cold. (2023, MA15+, Icelandic) 3.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

8.40 The Rookie. (Mav) Harper and Chen go undercover in Baja.

9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.

10.40 The Agenda Setters.

11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGals)

12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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

7.30 First Dates Australia. (Mas) A woman is set up with someone younger. 8.40 Doc. (Ma) A mysterious, fast-acting and deadly virus triggers an emergency lockdown on the sixth floor of Westside Hospital.

10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGal)

12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

Travel Guides. (PG) 8.40 100% Footy. (Mal) 9.40 9News

WEDNESDAY, July 22

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.05 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (R) 11.00 Search For The Last Great Tusker. (PG, R) 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 Insight. (R) 4.00 Going Places. (R) 4.30 The Cook Up. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml)

8.40 Concorde: Days That Shocked The World. (Ma) 9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 17. 2.00 Anne Boleyn. (Mlsv, R)

2.55 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (R)

3.50 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.20 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. (R)

4.50 China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur

9.10 Adventure Time. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.50 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, July 23

6am Xanadu.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05

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

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml)

9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 The Fall And Rise Of Reggie Dinkins. (PGals)

11.30 Stumble. (PGalsv)

12.00 Everything I Know About Love. (MA15+l)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Tipping Point: Celebrity Families. (PG) 8.45 To Be Advised. 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 GolfBarons. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 8.50 Ultimate Vets. 9.10 Animal Park. 10.10 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Spain With Michael Portillo. (PG)

8.30 Eva Longoria: Searching For France. (PGaw) Eva Longoria explores Bordeaux’s world-famous vineyards, looking at wine production in Saint-Émilion.

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18.

2.00 Anne Boleyn. (Masv, R)

3.00 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (R)

3.55 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Greatest Mysteries. 9.20 The UnBelievable With Dan Aykroyd. 10.10 Alone Australia. 11.20 The Expanse. 1.10am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

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Continued. (1980, PG) 6.50 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 8.40 Marie’s Story. (2014, PG) 10.25 Our Ties. (2022, M, French) Noon White Squall. (1996, M) 2.20 Satellite Boy. (2012, PG) 4.00 Selkie. (2000, PG) 5.40 Men In War. (1957, PG) 7.40 After Hours. (1985, M) 9.30 The Big Lebowski. (1998, M) 11.40 Your Monster. (2024, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs. 6am Men In War. (1957, PG) 8.10 The Comic. (1969, PG) 10.00 Godzilla Minus One. (2023, M, Japanese) 12.25pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 4.00 Marie’s Story. (2014, PG) 5.45 The Ploughman’s Lunch. (1983, PG) 7.45 The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 9.30 Hell Or High Water. (2016, MA15+) 11.25 Only The Brave. (2017, M) 1.55am Late Programs.

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

8.30 Air Crash Investigations: Monsoon Approach. (PGal) Looks at the crash of Air India Express Flight 1344. 9.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles: Gary Adams. (Mav, R) 10.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) 11.30 Motorway Patrol. (PGl) 12.00 Brave New World. (MA15+asv) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 4.45 Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games: Opening Ceremony.

6.00 9News. 7.00

By Sis HIGGINS

WALKING football is continuing to grow in Tea Gardens, with players aged 50 and over embracing the sport for its health benefits, social connections and welcoming atmosphere.

Tea Gardens Soccer Club introduced the program at the beginning of the 2025 season and its popularity quickly exceeded expectations, prompting players to vote to continue through summer with the introduction of a twilight competition.

Organiser Shayne Reynolds told News Of The Area that more than 50 people signed up during the first year, with free “come-and-try”

COME, PLAY, REST