Nambucca Valley News Of The Area 01 MAY 2026

By Mick BIRTLES

CHILDCARE ACCESS

By Ned COWIE

Mick BIRTLES 0408 167 891 birtles@newsofthearea.com.au

Jen HETHERINGTON 0413 871 625 jen@newsofthearea.com.au

Andrea FERRARI 0410 067 966 andrea@newsofthearea.com.au

David WIGLEY

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

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Council votes down development of childcare strategy

FROM Page 1

childcare access was raised for the second time in as many months by Councillor Jane MacSmith, when she brought a motion seeking a maximum of $100,000 to engage an independent party to develop a “Childcare Access Analysis and Strategy for the Nambucca Valley LGA”.

The Council was tied in its support of the proposal, at four votes to four, before Mayor Gary Lee cast the deciding vote and the motion was lost.

Cr MacSmith’s motion noted “critically low childcare availability” in the region, citing data from advocacy group The Parenthood which shows there are four children per available childcare place in some areas of the valley.

According to the councillor, families with children under two are most severely impacted.

She became visibly distressed as she discussed some of the community’s struggles with the issue, citing the experiences of Nambucca mother of two Holly Quin, who spoke at the previous night’s public forum.

Ms Quin, a senior policy officer with the state government, told councillors her family had lost over $40,000 in a single year in wages due to a lack of access to childcare.

The issue was initially raised in March, when Cr MacSmith moved a motion that “Council commission an Independent Childcare Access Analysis and Strategy for the Nambucca Valley LGA, and include funding for this work in the 2026–27 Budget Bid process”.

This was deferred until feedback could

be received from Regional Development Australia, a Federally Government-funded organisation currently conducting research into childcare access in the region.

Nambucca Valley Council General Manager Bede Spannagle told the March meeting, “Council has no available childcare resource or expertise in-house to deliver the analysis and strategy, so I concur with the recommendation to commission an independent report.”

Mr Spannagle went on to suggest exploring opportunities for grant funding for the project, either in full or co-contribution.

At last Wednesday’s meeting, Cr MacSmith said it was essential that Council’s 2026/27 budget reflect its commitment to addressing the issue by allocating a maximum of $100,000, a figure she said had been given to her by Council staff as the potential cost of engaging outside help.

She said she was “flabbergasted” by some of the discussion from councillors opposing the motion.

“This is also an economic concern. You’ve got $35 million being left on the table from parents not being able to work.

“It’s clear. We have to do a strategy, we have to sort this out. Council has to play a part. That’s it.

“Are you supporting childcare, are you supporting a strategy in the Nambucca Valley?”

Mayor Gary Lee and councillors McWilliam, Jenvey and Vance said while they recognise the importance of the issue, they consider engaging outside help to formulate a strategy to be excessive and unnecessary at this stage.

Cr McWilliam, a director of both Macksville Preschool and Lifetime Connect, argued against the motion and for a “more collaborative approach”, stating that community members were already aware of the issue and were acting to resolve it.

During discussions of the motion, Cr McWilliam declared a “non-pecuniary - less significant conflict of interest” due to her work with Lifetime Connect.

In a statement to NOTA, Cr MacSmith reaffirmed her commitment to work towards a Council-based solution to the issue for parents of the region.

She has launched a community survey on childcare access in the Nambucca Valley, which can be accessed at https://bit. ly/4mVlJby.

CORRECTION

NEWS Of The Area wishes to correct information printed in our 24 April edition.

The p8 story, “Strengthening community resilience”, included incorrect contact details for the Australian Red Cross.

For those wishing to volunteer with Australian Red Cross Emergency Services, visit https://www.redcross.org.au/ emergencyvolunteer.

Valla Beach land sells at auction

A HEAVILY-WOODED 3.22-hectare (32,230 sqm) piece of land on Langsford Way, Valla Beach has been sold at auction for $1.9 million, following months of community action to stop potential residential development on the site.

As previously reported in NOTA, the land was formerly owned by the NSW Department of Education and identified as surplus during a 2024 government property audit.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has assessed the land to be suitable for around 60 dwellings.

It was taken to auction by Belle Property Nambucca Heads on behalf of the NSW Government on 22 April.

The property was passed in initially, selling later that day to a registered bidder for $1.9 million.

In the days before the auction, Nambucca Valley Council made a last-ditch attempt to defer the sale.

On 17 April councillors MacSmith and Jones called for an extraordinary council meeting to discuss the issue.

On 21 April during a public forum, community members Teena Pitman, Judith Kirwood and Sally Townley outlined their concerns over the sale to councillors and council staff, covering issues such as wildlife protection, habitat destruction, infrastructure shortages and a lack of transparency from the government.

Councillors later resolved that Council would “urgently contact by phone” Lands and Property Minister Steve Kamper MP, Education Minister Prue Car, Oxley MP Michael Kemp and Cowper MP Pat Conaghan, to request the sale be deferred until further consultation could take place.

The motion also authorised the Mayor or General Manager to make direct contact with the DPHI prior to the auction to negotiate

on Council's behalf regarding alternative outcomes for the site, including “housing sympathetic to the existing village character that creates genuine opportunities for new and younger home buyers and ecological protection”.

Despite the last-gasp Council motion, the auction proceeded in Sydney last Wednesday and the land was sold.

Later that day councillors resolved to write to Premier Chris Minns requesting that any proceeds from the sale of Lot 1 Langsford Way be allocated to Council to undertake detailed design work for future residential land within the Valla Urban Growth Area (VUGA).

Mayor Gary Lee said he did not agree with the State Government’s process to divest the Department of Education land, citing a lack of community consultation.

He said he wanted to ensure the proceeds of the sale deliver a direct benefit to the Nambucca Valley community, by supporting the development of VUGA.

“While this visionary project (VUGA) has its Stage One industrial precinct being constructed now, thanks to an investment of $11.2 million from the Australian and NSW Governments and $17 million from Council, we need further government investment if we are to unlock its residential housing supply,” Mayor Lee said.

“VUGA is a Council-led, strategically planned precinct, underpinned by more than 25 years of planning, community consultation and rezoning.

“If the State Government and the Premier Chris Minns are serious about delivering new regional housing supply, which was their premise for selling Lot 1 Langsford Way in the first place, they should be serious about funnelling its proceeds into VUGA.

“The land Council directly controls at

q Land on Langsford Way, Valla Beach has been sold at auction, much to the chagrin of local residents. Photo: supplied.

VUGA could yield 140 new homes, should the Federal and State governments commit to funding its lead-in infrastructure.

“And then there’s the privately-owned adjoining land, which I estimate could deliver a combined 700 new homes.”

The DPHI has informed NOTA that proceeds from the sale of audit sites are returned to NSW Treasury and are factored into the funding of the NSW Government’s $6.6 billion commitment to social and affordable

housing.

“The NSW Government expects the site to be able to deliver up to 60 homes, with the land zoned R1 General Residential under the Nambucca Local Environmental Plan 2010,” a spokesperson for DPHI told NOTA.

“Any development activity is a matter for the new owner with appropriate oversight from the NSW planning system and Nambucca Valley Council’s Environment Plan.”

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Generations unite on Anzac Day to honour

FROM Page 1

Macksville High School student Taylor Whalley, who focused on the role of women in times of war, both in active service and in support roles.

She spoke of her great nan, Rose Ellen Miller, who enlisted on 7 March 1944 and served during World War Two.

The service was attended by Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan, State Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, and Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee, alongside members, guests and the broader community.

A highlight of the main service was a brief flypast by an RAAF F35A jet, which drew the attention of the large crowd gathered.

Bagpiper Shaun Manning performed at all Macksville services, contributing to the solemn atmosphere of the day.

Students from schools across Macksville and Kempsey participated, delivering prayers and readings.

Melissa Robertson from Macksville High School, along with students, assisted subBranch members in placing flags on veterans’ graves at the Macksville Cemetery.

The Macksville RSL sub-Branch acknowledged the support of local organisations, including the Nambucca Valley Band, Jocelyn Leplaa for leading the singing, Bernard Laverty Funerals for the loan of chairs, and Jules for the creation of wreaths.

The Scotts Head Surf Life Saving Club was also thanked for its participation in the dawn service.

In Nambucca Heads, Anzac Day was commemorated with a dawn service at 5:30am and a main service at 9am, following a march down Bowra Street to the Cenotaph at Anzac Park.

“I was delighted with the numbers who turned out considering the possibility of inclement weather,” said Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch President Denis Lane.

“I would go as far as to say that both services enjoyed the largest crowds I have seen.”

A moving address was delivered by Janelle McKay of Legacy Mid North Coast.

The weather took a dramatic turn as the heavens opened during the laying of wreaths, leaving those without rain protection completely soaked.

Mr Lane thanked those who attended to honour the ANZACs and all men and women who have served, and continue to serve, their nation in uniform.

At Scotts Head, students from Scotts Head Public School played a central role in the dawn service.

Their participation was widely praised as a highlight of the morning.

Retired Army Officer Colonel Mike Collie delivered the address, adding depth and reflection to the service.

In Bowraville, approximately 250 people attended the dawn service, while more than 500 attended the main service.

The weather cleared in time for both services, allowing proceedings to continue without disruption.

Senior students from Bowraville Central School (BCS) led the main service with the support of service members.

honour service across the Nambucca Valley

Students from both BCS and St Mary’s School delivered readings honouring the ANZACs.

Tyler Bellamy travelled from Armidale to read the Roll of Honour.

Guest speaker Dr Trisha Grace, Principal of Frank Partridge VC Public School, spoke on the theme of honouring women in service and those supporting from home.

Service members later gathered for a luncheon at the Bowraville Ex-Services Club.

At Taylors Arm, both the dawn and main services were very well attended.

Around 60 people attended the traditional gunfire breakfast at the Pub With No Beer following the dawn service.

The main service featured a large parade

that brought together community members and veterans.

Participants included members of the Taylors Arm Vietnam Veterans and Peacekeepers, cadets from 331SQN Coffs Harbour, and local school communities.

Lisa Boyle led the march with Benny the horse and Raptor the working dog, creating a memorable moment for attendees.

Students and staff from Medlow Public School, St Patrick’s Macksville, Macksville Public School and Macksville High School all took part.

The parade moved in time to the Nambucca District Band, bringing the service to a fitting and respectful conclusion.

Community voices to guide town centre vision

By Mick BIRTLES

DEVELOPING a collaborative plan to revitalise the Nambucca Heads central business district (CBD) has long been a priority for both Council and the community.

At its Ordinary Meeting on 22 April, councillors resolved to launch an expression of interest process for a community reference group to guide the development of a Nambucca Heads Town Centre Master Plan.

“Nambucca Heads is a great coastal town, with a winding commercial strip, anchored by many longterm businesses, cafes and restaurants,” said Nambucca Valley Council Acting General Manager David Moloney.

“We want to build on these

positives by putting into place a comprehensive framework to set out a vision and a strategic direction shaping land use, connectivity and public domain outcomes in the town centre.

“It will respond to community priorities and better define a long-term direction for the important CBD."

Council is seeking to appoint six community members to the group, including two local residents with relevant experience in urban design and planning, two business owner representatives, and two commercial property owner representatives.

The group will also include three Council representatives - councillors James Angel,

Tamara McWilliam and Mayor Gary Lee (chairperson).

While the community reference group will not have a decision-making function, it will work closely with Council staff and project consultants to provide input and feedback throughout the planning process.

Broader community input will also be encouraged, with residents from Nambucca Heads and surrounding areas to be given further opportunities to contribute during later stages of consultation.

Community members interested in joining the reference group are encouraged to submit an expression of interest via the Council’s website by 5pm on Friday 8 May 2026.

Affordable housing model gets Council backing

By Leigh WATSON

THE Bellingen Shire has taken a landmark step towards addressing the housing crisis, with Council voting unanimously to progress the Waterfall Way Community Land Trust (WWCLT) project.

The decision comes after an extensive community consultation process that attracted 280 submissions, with 76 percent supporting

the proposal to hand over public land in Urunga for affordable housing.

The project, to deliver around six homes for local working households, is set to become the first Community Land Trust (CLT) development in Australia.

Under the CLT model, the Trust retains ownership of the land while residents purchase the homes. It effectively keeps the land in the community

to ensure long-term affordability for future generations.

Bellingen Shire Mayor

Steve Allan described Council’s decision as significant, while noting that further steps are required before the project can proceed.

While the majority of submissions supported the proposal, some residents raised concerns, including the loss of green space, increased traffic, proximity to the railway line, and the design of the development.

“This step is not final, but it is nonetheless significant,” Cr Allan said.

“We have heard the concerns [from the community] and they are not being dismissed – valid points will now be fleshed out and discussed.”

Cr Allan said these issues would be addressed through the standard development application process, with further opportunities for community input.

“If the land is transferred, we will work closely with the neighbours and nearby residents to understand their concerns and find ways to address them in the plans and development application.”

Council will now enter direct negotiations with the WWCLT, with a range of safeguards to ensure the public asset delivers longterm community benefit.

“In essence, the Council will require assurance that the land can and will be developed for affordable housing in perpetuity.”

This next phase will include an independent land valuation, development of a probity framework, and agreement on key contractual conditions.

These may include requirements for development approval, demonstrated financial capacity, and legal protections to ensure the land is used solely for affordable housing.

WWCLT Executive Officer Kerry Pearse said the strong level of support has given them confidence they are working on something that is needed and people care about.

“The proposal we are talking to Bellingen Shire

Council about is for the land to be transferred at no cost for homes that are affordable for locals on moderate incomes into perpetuity,” she said.

But while the Community Land Trust model is dependent on free or lowcost land, they will be investigating costs and financing for the build, which will eventually be repaid through purchase by eligible co-owners.

They have also committed to ongoing engagement with nearby residents.

Significantly, the Trust has drawn on the work of academic Dr Louise Crabtree, a renowned expert on affordable housing models, including community land trusts, who welcomed the decision and applauded the community effort.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see this decision by the Council and a testament to the work of the community in seeking to establish housing solutions in the region,” she said.

“It’s a pivotal moment for the establishment of CLTs in Australia and [sets] a precedent.”

Dr Crabtree’s team has developed a toolkit to provide the emerging sector in Australia with the resources it needs to implement new affordable housing models. The model has the potential to be replicated both within Bellingen Shire and in other regional areas grappling with similar housing challenges, offering a community-led pathway to long-term affordable housing.

Bridge closure to impact travel

By Mick BIRTLES

THE Tilly Willy Bridge is set to close from 4 May as major refurbishment works get underway, with traffic to be impacted for up to six weeks.

The bridge is a key heavy vehicle route connecting Macksville to Bowraville via Wilson Road.

Nambucca Valley Council advised that essential structural upgrades are now in progress to ensure the long-term safety and usability of the bridge.

Director Engineering Services David Moloney said the concrete casings on the bridge’s piles have corroded, causing its structural steel to be exposed to the salt water and deteriorate.

“Council’s structures team are working below the bridge doing preparatory work for its new bridge piles right now,” he said.

“Once the bridge is closed from 4 May, the team will be

able to pour new concrete bridge piles, effectively encasing the old piles and reinforcing them with new steel.

“After the piles are complete, other components of the bridge will need to be refurbished, causing it to close for a period of up to six weeks.

“Detours will be in place and motorists should expect moderate delays in travel time.

“I thank our community for its patience while we carry out these essential works.”

A full closure of the bridge is expected from approximately 4 May through to 7 June 2026, although this may extend depending on weather conditions.

Mr Moloney stressed that once works are complete, the current ban on heavy vehicles and the previous five tonne load limit will be able to be removed from the bridge, allowing milk tankers,

haulage trucks and other heavy vehicles to use it.

The works will involve forming and reinforcing new concrete bridge piles around the existing piles, constructing new headstocks, replacing timber girders, improving ride quality, replacing the concrete deck and reinstating guardrails.

A full closure of the bridge is expected from approximately 4 May through to 7 June 2026, although this may extend depending on weather conditions.

During this time, detours will be in place for all motorists, vehicles and pedestrians.

Kings Point residents with light vehicles will be able to detour through Kings Point estate via Jellico and Sturdee Streets, then cross Little Tilly Willy Bridge on Taylors Arm Road to reach Macksville.

will instead be directed through the Kings Point estate detour to access Macksville.

There will be no pedestrian access across Tilly Willy Bridge during the closure period.

Pedestrians and cyclists

Residents travelling between Macksville and Bowraville are encouraged to use Rodeo Drive wherever possible to minimise congestion within Kings Point estate.

Fishermen may experience disruptions when accessing Tilly Willy Creek and the Nambucca River, with commercial operators encouraged to contact Council for further information. Council is encouraging residents to stay informed about the project and other local works by downloading the Antenno app, which provides real-time updates and notifications.

Bowraville legend Margaret Ussher

By Ned COWIE

BOWRAVILLE matriarch Margaret Ussher, 85, was either present for, or the instigator of, many of the events which have shaped the town over the last 50 years.

A descendant of the Nambucca Valley‘s Mackay clan, Margaret grew up in Macksville but did not visit Bowraville for the first two decades of her life.

After attending Macksville High School, Margaret left the Valley to live and work in Sydney before returning a few years later to take care of her father.

It was at this time that she met her husband-to-be, Missabotti dairy farmer Allan Ussher, at the ‘Headland Palais Dance’ in Nambucca, marrying him in 1964.

“Allan was a keen dancer and I took a trip in my little red Mini Minor with a girlfriend to find out where he lived,” Margaret explained.

“That was the first time I saw Bowraville.

“The town didn’t look much different to how it is now, but a lot of the shops have closed [since then].”

Soon after, Margaret came to live on the Ussher family’s dairy farm along Bellingen Road just a few kilometres from Bowraville.

She and Allan re-named the enterprise Bowralea and the farm operates under this name to this day.

Life was busy and within a few years Margaret and Allan had begun their family of three children.

Margaret soon realised the area was in need of a playgroup.

Since there was none, she began her own and held regular meet-ups at the farm.

As numbers grew the group moved into town, eventually assimilating with the early Bowraville Preschool.

Around this time, Margaret, Allan and several community members including Bernadette Ballangarry and her brother Martin, worked with the Christian Youth group from Sydney to build a house on the corner of Wilson Road and Carbin Street.

This house and the Youth Centre in the Mission were two projects which Margaret and Allan were to work on for Bowraville’s Aboriginal community.

The life of dairy farmers involves milking cows twice every day, and Margaret was expected to help.

After only a few months of this intense

work, painful eruptions of eczema on her hands began to make the job unbearable.

The cost of living wasn’t far from either Margaret or Allan’s mind however, and Allan quickly came up with a solution.

“He said: ‘You find something else which is profitable within three months and you can go’,” Margaret recalled with a chuckle.

In response, Margaret set up a shop selling material in the main street of Bowraville, from the building which now contains both the Pioneer Community Centre and Aunt Emily’s Craft Shop.

“I bought ‘jobbers ends’ from Sydney,” she explained, referring to surplus fabric from garment manufacturers.

“I sold most of the fabric by the kilogram, just some good pieces I sold by the metre,” she added.

The old Bowraville Theatre later came up for sale and Margaret purchased it.

She moved her business, ‘The Remnant Basket’, into the front of this historic building.

“Allan did the renovations (so it could be used as a haberdashery and a hairdresser’s studio) but we never touched the back (the theatre section), because I always knew it could one day become a theatre again,” she said.

Margaret and a friend began the Aunt Emily’s craft group and set up the current shop bearing the same name to display the group’s handiworks.

In 1975, Bowraville celebrated its Centenary with a festival like none the region had seen before.

It lasted nearly two weeks and included many events like dances, music concerts, the first-ever Bowraville Cup, and a street parade.

Margaret’s playgroup mothers and children waved to the crowd from their spectacular float, the boot of the ‘Old Woman who lived in a shoe’, which they had created from papier mache and fabric.

Two time capsules were buried and many important officials and famous people attended.

Margaret and her friends decided they had enjoyed the 1975 festival so much, they established a committee and in 1977 they began staging yearly ‘Back to Bowraville’ events.

Margaret, often acting as Secretary and or Treasurer of this committee, helped organise the festival almost every year for more than

three decades.

In 1986, Margaret was working at her High Street material shop from the front of Bowraville Theatre when she was approached by a location scout for the makers of ‘The Umbrella Woman’.

The main street of Bowraville with its lineup of historical verandah-post buildings was an ideal setting.

The film, starring Rachel Ward and Bryan Brown, was set in pre-war Australia and brought world-wide attention to Bowraville.

Allan Ussher even appeared in the film as a cattle farmer.

‘The Umbrella Woman’ changed the town significantly, according to Margaret.

“Many Bowraville locals took part in the film and people would gather every day at the theatre to watch the raw footage being cut,” she said.

Afterwards, there was the question of what to do with the boarding house façade that had been constructed for the film.

Margaret negotiated with the Folk Museum to place this on the vacant lot between the old top pub and the museum, where it can still be viewed today.

At the height of her business career, Margaret owned three shops selling fabric across Bowraville, Macksville and Nambucca Heads.

While Allan ran successfully for the Nambucca Shire Council as a councillor in the late 1980s, Margaret was elected president of the government-backed Urban Committee for the area.

Margaret and her shop, the Remnant Basket, began the tradition of staging a yearly Quilt Show.

This tradition continues today, with the Verandah Post Patchworkers now holding the show in the Senior Citizen’s Centre in Macksville.

Aside from her interest in fabric creations, Margaret also enjoyed painting and drawing which led to her forming an art group which she says still meets regularly at the Bowraville Racecourse.

As a committee member of the MackayMcKay Family Reunion Association, Margaret helped organise many reunions for the large extended family.

These were often held in conjunction with Back to Bowraville festivals and family members based outside the district would

return for the yearly events.

In 2000, Margaret sold the Bowraville Theatre to Nambucca Valley Council and an arts group.

Today it is once again used as an entertainment venue under the auspices of the Bowraville Arts Council.

Its first rate acoustics and old-world original decor make it one of the most outstanding buildings to remain in the Nambucca Valley.

Sadly, Margaret’s husband Allan Ussher passed away in 2013.

Nowadays, after some recent poor health, Margaret mostly watches the world from the lounge room of her Missabotti home or garden. She keeps herself busy with family and reading, while enjoying the view of her cattle as they walk past the house to and from Bowralea dairy.

Navy sailor honours fallen relative at Villers-Bretonneux

By Captain Annie RICHARDSON

FOR Able Seaman Brenton Knight, travelling to France for Anzac Day this year was not just a ceremonial duty, but the continuation of a legacy that was almost lost to history.

More than a century ago, his great-great uncle, Private Victor Hardaker of the 28th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, left his home on the north coast to serve his country in World War I.

In 1917, fighting near Bullecourt, he was severely wounded; shot in the head and struck by shrapnel that tore through his body, costing him four fingers.

Returned to Australia, Private Hardaker died of his wounds in 1918 at just 23-years-old.

For decades, his sacrifice remained largely unrecognised; his name was absent from official records,

and his story was carried only by family and community memory.

It was not until 2009 that members of the Macksville RSL sub-branch uncovered the oversight.

After years of advocacy from his descendants, Private Hardaker was finally recognised as a war dead, with a rededication service held at his graveside in Eungai Creek in 2011.

Standing in Eungai Creek that day, sounding the Last Post on a bugle, was his greatgreat nephew, a young Able Seaman Knight.

More than a decade and a half later, Able Seaman Knight has returned to the place Private Hardarker’s legacy began.

He travelled recently to France for Anzac Day commemorations as a member of Australia’s Federation Guard, to stand on the ground where his

uncle fought and was gravely wounded.

“Honestly, it’s more than a privilege,” Able Seaman Knight said.

“The fact that I’m completing that full circle, from being there when his service was first recognised, to now being able to stand where he fought, it’s something I never thought would happen.”

As the only member of his immediate and extended family to serve, Able Seaman Knight feels he carries forward a legacy that now rests with him, and, he hopes, will continue beyond him.

“It’s a heavy weight, but it’s a weight worth carrying,” he said.

“Knowing that it’s sort of been passed down, and I’m carrying that legacy forward… hopefully one day, when I have kids, they’ll be able to look at that and go ‘wow’ and want to continue that tradition.

“That’s something that means a lot to me, that it doesn’t just stop here.”

While Able Seaman Knight’s sense of legacy is deeply personal, he feels it also extends far beyond his family.

“You realise very quickly that it’s not about you anymore,” he said.

“You’re representing something bigger than yourself, you’re representing your country, the ADF and all Australians back home.

“When performing a catafalque party, we are there to not only perform drill movements, but to make those watching feel the drill movements and capture the

significance of the occasion.

“That is what makes our role in this occasion so personally significant.

“For the people back home who can’t make the journey, we’re there for them, we’re there to pay our respects on their behalf, and to do it to the highest standard we can.”

Help shape a 20-year transport plan for the North Coast

along with longer term outcomes, across public transport, active transport, roads and freight.

THE NSW Government has released a Draft North Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP), described as a “20-year vision to guide the future of the region’s transport system”.

According to the government, the plan sets out transport priorities based on “evidence, data and consultation with over 800 stakeholders including councils, members of parliament and community groups”.

The North Coast SRITP is one of nine plans being developed across regional NSW.

The Draft Plan identifies more than 50 short and medium-term initiatives,

Key directions of the Draft Plan include improving regional connectivity for people and freight, building a more resilient, disaster-

ready transport network, expanding sustainable transport options, reducing transport disadvantage and supporting the visitor economy.

Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said, “This is a long-term, integrated blueprint for the North Coast, developed in partnership with the community to meet the

needs of a growing and changing region.

“We’ve already seen strong engagement, with more than 2,000 items of feedback helping to shape the Draft Plan.

“We heard clearly that people want more travel choices, safer roads and better, more resilient connections - and this Draft Plan reflects those priorities.

Youth Week celebrations a hit

By Mick BIRTLES

NSW YOUTH WEEK

delivered a lively program of events and activities for young people across the region from 16-26 April, with celebrations held in Bowraville, Nambucca Heads and Macksville.

The program was shaped by the Nambucca Valley Youth Council, who developed a list of preferred activities and workshops, with Council and local organisations selecting a number of these ideas to present during Youth Week. A variety of activities

were held across the Valley, including painting, karaoke and more at Grants Hall in Bowraville hosted by Jaanymili Bawrrungga Aboriginal Corporation, DJ music and food at the Nambucca Youthie, and a Dungeons and Dragons tournament at Nambucca Library.

“We had terrific feedback from parents, carers and more importantly from the kids themselves who attended the Dungeons and Dragons tournament,” Dungeon Master Adam Norris said.

“From older teens who usually struggle in social situations, all the way to an energetic 13-year-old who debuted her character Samantha the Barbarian, complete with exploding worm sidekick.

“It was a hugely inventive day and everyone involved expressed hope that it could become a regular event.”

Tuesday evening saw Bellwood Park come alive for Under the Stars, an outdoor movie event attended by more than 50 young people and several adults.

Attendees took part in activities such as hulahooping and badge-making before settling onto bean bags to enjoy the movie.

Popcorn was available, along with coffee and hot chocolate from Feath’s Mobile Coffee Van, while the Macksville Lions Club provided a sausage sizzle and baked goods.

On Wednesday, Becoming U launched the first of ten sessions for the Macksville Youth Hub, marking the beginning of a new initiative for young people in the area.

The establishment of a Youth Hub in Macksville was strongly supported by the Nambucca Valley Youth Council in 2025, with the goal of creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all young people.

Becoming U is currently trialling a drop-in style hub operating from 3pm to 5pm each Wednesday, allowing young people to explore activities and contribute ideas to help shape the future of the hub.

Young people from across the Valley are invited to attend the weekly

“Community feedback will help us refine the final plan and ensure we deliver a transport network that improves connectivity, supports local economies and enhances quality of life across the North Coast.” Community members can view the Draft Plan and provide feedback until Sunday 14 June 2026 at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov. au/sritp/north-coast.

sessions and be part of the co-design process.

For the opening session, the Macksville Lions Club donated food, Mission Australia supplied popcorn, and Carers NSW and Jaanymili Bawrrungga Aboriginal Corporation provided activities and information.

Young people aged between 12 and 18 are encouraged to visit the Macksville Senior Citizens Centre, located next to Macksville Library, to experience the Youth Hub.

The space offers a relaxed environment where young people can spend time between school and other commitments, including sport or waiting for transport home.

“Huge thank you to all the services that came together to put on diverse activities across the Valley,” said Council General Manager, Bede Spannagle.

“Its great to be able to bring to life the vision of young people and to do so collaboratively with other organisations.”

Musicians combine for Latin America concert

By Andrea FERRARI

COFFS Harbour City Orchestra is presenting a concert of Latin American music at Nambucca Community and Arts Centre on Sunday 17 May.

Joining the orchestra on the day is the Bellingen Big Band.

The combined performance will also feature solos and is set to be an outstanding musical experience.

Conductor Tim Egan told News Of The Area, “It’s very exciting to be teaming up with and presenting a concert in collaboration with the Bellingen Big Band once

again.”

The Latin genre of music brings a wide mix of music including tango, Bossa nova, samba and rhumba styles.

“The percussion sections for the two groups will certainly bring to life these popular Latin American dance styles for our audience,” Tim said.

“It will also be quite a spectacle when the two groups join together and perform Mas Que Nada and Oye Combo Va, two of the most popular pieces written in the Latin genre.”

The orchestra will also perform a medley from the movie Evita.

“The movie was released in 1996 and the music was written by Andrew LloydWebber,” said Orchestra spokesperson Cathie McIntyre.

“The beautiful song Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, sung by Madonna, [was] spine tingling.”

Throughout the year the Orchestra works to a program of themed concerts.

“Some years ago the orchestra committee decided that themed concerts may appeal to audiences,” said Cathie.

“When we plan our annual concert calendar, we brainstorm ideas and then elect what we think will be appealing.

“Last year's concert with soloist Nick Fairbanks was very popular and our Disney concert at the Race Club was a hit with children, who dressed up in character.

“Our Space Themes music some years ago, presented at dusk, attracted a very different audience and was

quite successful too.”

The Bellingen Big Band is a community-based group including some of the Coffs Coast’s finest ensemble players.

It has been running for over 25 years, providing training and performance opportunities in a supportive

musical environment.

Over the years, the band has performed regularly at community events and festivals including “The Cotton Club”, the Bello Winter Music Fest, Bellingen Jazz Festival and The Fine Music Festival.

Last year, it was part of the Beyond Jazz Weekender and Urunga Lights Christmas Carols.

Early performances include the 2000 Sydney Olympic Torch Relay in Urunga. It has also played in Dorrigo and elsewhere up and down the coast.

Council’s draft budget released for feedback

By Mick BIRTLES

NAMBUCCA Valley Council has placed its 2026–27 Draft Annual Budget on public exhibition, giving the community an opportunity to provide feedback on proposed spending and priorities.

The draft budget will remain on exhibition until Wednesday 27 May 2026.

Nambucca Valley Acting General Manager David Moloney said community members can now have their say on the draft budget, which proposes expenditure of $56.11

million on capital works and services over the 2026–2027 financial year.

“The draft budget proposes delivering a good range of infrastructure, assets and facilities improvements,” he said.

“Community members are invited to view the

2026-27 Draft Annual Budget, Draft Fees and Charges 2026-27, and Draft Long Term Financial Plan on Council’s website and make a submission, should they wish to.”

Residents can access the draft documents online via Council’s website or review

hard copies available at Council’s Administration Building at 44 Princess Street, Macksville, and at Nambucca Valley Libraries.

Celebrating the arrival of ‘buluunggal’

THE fifth annual Buluunggal (Mullet) Festival will take place at the V-Wall, Nambucca Heads on Saturday, celebrating the arrival of buluunggal in the Nambucca

River and the enduring connections of Gumbaynggirr people to Country.

q A previous Buluunggal (Mullet) Festival

Led by the vision of recently passed Gumbaynggirr Elder Uncle Bud Marshall, the festival continues this year as an ongoing expression of his commitment to respect, connection and togetherness.

In planning the event, Uncle Bud had said that “everyone is invited to come join us to celebrate the ongoing significance of the mullet run for relationships with Country”.

“I want this to be a fun day for people to experience how strong this place is and to connect with Gumbaynggirr culture,” he said.

“The day is about connection and respect.

“That is the important

thing and the main thing I want to share.”

The festival will include Gumbaynggirr storytelling, carving and weaving tents, dance, music, stalls, and a mullet BBQ.

Performers include Jumbaal Dreamin’, Emma Donovan, Michael Donovan, Allira Williams, Gunganbu, and Hot Mess.

Part of Uncle Bud's vision for the festival this year was to connect Māori and Gumbaynggirr people to share and learn from one another.

Thanks to community fundraising and organising efforts to fulfil his vision, Māori dance and musical

Submissions received may be included in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed.

All submissions must be lodged by the closing date of 27 May.

Community members wishing to provide feedback are required to make their submission in writing to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447.

groups will perform at the festival.

Uncle Bud’s nieces Hannah Smith and Elaine Carmady are co-organisers of the event.

“In Aboriginal culture, Country brings us together as one big family,” they said.

“Whether you are related or not, our culture is inclusive of everyone… it’s about that togetherness… so to care for Country is to care for everybody.”

All are welcome to this family-friendly community celebration.

A free shuttle bus to and from the V-Wall will be operating from outside the Nambucca RSL from 9.30am to 5pm. The event runs from 10am–4.30pm on Saturday, 2 May.

Ageing Well Expo returns in expanded format

WHAT started as a simple conversation about end-of-life planning has grown into something much bigger - the Ageing Well Expo in Laurieton.

This free community event brings together Mid North Coast organisations, services, and support groups who are passionate about helping people live well and plan confidently for the future.

No longer just about planning for later in life, the expo has become a space where people can come together, have a chat, learn something new, and realise just how much support is available.

It gives people the chance to plan

ahead with a bit more confidence, find helpful information, and discover ways to stay connected and supported at every stage of life.

For organiser Michelle Freeman from Simplicity Funerals, the event is all about opening up conversations that we often put off but really shouldn’t.

“I do this because I’ve seen how hard it can be for families when they’re trying to figure things out on their own,” she said.

“If we can make it a little easier and connect people with the right support before they need it, then it’s worth it.”

Now in its fourth year, the Ageing Well Expo returns to the Laurieton United Services Club on Thursday 18 June 2026.

U3A (University of the Third Age) is worldwide, volunteer retired or semi learning, socialising, and sharing skills in a relaxed, non offers low classes without exams or qualifications, often run by members for members

based, or educational

often run by members for members

U3A Nambucca Valley runs Gardening, Book Clubs and more.

U3A Nambucca Valley runs 30+ classes each month Yoga to Cards to Petanque, Mahjong to Gardening, Book Clubs and Art Trails and so much

Annual Membership fee of $30 enables you to join as many courses as you wish Contact us and/or check out our website for more information www.u3a.com.au contact@u3a.com.au 0494 157 164

Annual Membership fee of $30 enables you to join as many courses as you wish

Contact us and/or check out our website for more information

Annual Membership fee of $30 enables you to join as many courses as you wish Phone: 0494 157 164

Wreath workshop blooms ahead of Anzac Day

By Mick BIRTLES

LEGACY Mid North Coast played a meaningful role in Anzac Day commemorations across the region through a successful community wreath-making initiative.

In the lead up to 25 April, volunteers gathered to create wreaths that would be presented at services across the Mid North Coast.

“We had a very successful wreath making workshop prior to Anzac Day,” Belinda Smith from Legacy Mid North Coast told News Of The Area.

“Legatees came with armfuls of cuttings from their gardens which included some delightful flowers and a broad variety of greenery.”

Participants contributed a wide variety of garden cuttings to create unique and personal tributes.

Each wreath reflected both the creativity of the volunteers and the deep respect held for those who have served.

A significant contribution to the workshop came from Michelle Coleman, owner of Congarinni Bush Gems, who donated many buckets of superb blooms.

The completed wreaths were distributed across a number of commemorative services throughout the region.

Legacy Mid North Coast wreaths were presented at services in Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Bowraville, Stuarts Point, South West Rocks, Willawarrin and Kempsey.

Panthers go top of the ladder

By Aiden BURGESS

THE SAWTELL Panthers have gone to the top of the Group 2 Rugby League ladder after a dominant win during Round 2 of the first-grade season.

The Panthers won 36-6 against the Grafton Ghosts at Rex Hardaker Oval.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses also remain undefeated after having a 30-16 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets at Geoff King Motors Oval.

Defending premiers the Nambucca Roosters recorded their

first win of the season, defeating the South Grafton Rebels 22-12 during Friday night footy at McKittrick Park.

First-grade ladder

1.Sawtell Panthers. 4 points. 2 wins. 0 losses. Points differential (p.d): 52.

2.Woolgoolga Seahorses. 4 points. 2 wins. 0 losses. (p.d): 50.

3.South Grafton Rebels. 2 points. 1 win. 1 loss. (p.d): -6.

4.Nambucca Roosters. 2 points. 1 win. 1 loss. (p.d): -12.

5.Coffs Harbour Comets. 0 points. 0 wins. 1 loss. (p.d): -14.

Nambucca Golf Report

By Chris KNIGHT

THE WORM finally turned for a once barefoot golfer while another hit his tee shot into a toilet at the Nambucca Heads Island Golf course.

In a day of drama in the Valla Tavern medley par on Saturday, Colin Wormleaton whaled Div 1 with plus-6 for the win in a round which included a bird on 17 to the postage stamp temporary.

'Wormo' - who used to play sans shoes on the back of a melanoma scare - has seen his handicap drift to 12 but he was onsong in carding 11 pars to head home John Morgan (14 handicap) on plus-1.

Heather Gray (26) - who salutes the heavens in her pre-shot routinewon Div 2 on a countback with plus3 from William Mann (23).

Trevor Peck was the clubhouse talking point though after far from flushing his tee shot on 13 which after ricochets finished inside the outhouse on the 13th. Perhaps Pecky was still chasing the Easter Bowl.

David Bartos guided the longest putt on the first for the Ecomist prize pack and the pins went to

Wormo on 5, Glenys Thompson on 7 and Bryce McCarroll on 8 and 15. Trevor Hopkins hit it oh so close on 18 for the $60 Po Pin and made the putt.

Shoutout to the small, hardworking greenkeeping team at The Island who have created temporaries on 16 and 17 to give the flat-stick surfaces a chance to recover.

Chairman of temporary greens, Geoff Brooks (19), found the shortened targets to his liking as he posted a mega 44 points to slay Div 1 of the Valla Beach Tavern medley stableford on Thursday 23 April.

His round was the best of the day and included 10 pars and 37 off the stick round the back - way too hot for runner-up, club champion Graham Watson (6), on 37 points.

Gary Rumble (27) sizzled to win Div 2 with 42 points, four clear of Andrew Cuthbertson (22).

After his only wipe of the round on the 2nd, Rumble hustled like a pro including back-to-back birds on 8 and 9.

Pins were shared democratically - Garry Johnstone on 5, Dan Wassens on 7, Rumble on 8, and Chris Tinson on 15. Peter Moxon scored the Pizza

Nambucca Bowls Report

By Charles POTTER

WEDNESDAY Apr 22: A field of 24 bowlers ... and the winners were Ray Platt, StuThorne and Tas Fribbins. Second place went to Jai MacAuliffe, Paul Stoi and Robert Chibnall. Ron Hill, The Welder and Peter Fredericks were third. The Lucky Losers went to Wayne Bolton, Chris D'Elboux and Doug Cedelland. Tony Utquhart was

the Lucky Bowler who missed the Jackpot of $210. Fri Apr 24: It was Laverty's Day again with double prizes. First places went to Jai MacAuliffe, Barry Redman and Peter Fredericks and Hoggy, Mitch McGill and Peter MacRitchie. Stoi and Grant Lawrence were second along with Wayne Dargon, Robert Chibnall and Col Crawford. Third places went to John Morgan

6.Grafton Ghosts. 0 points. 0 wins. 2 losses. (p.d): -34.

7.Macksville Sea Eagles. 0 points. 0 wins. 1 loss. (p.d): -36.

Reserves Sawtell Panthers won their second straight game to start the season, triumphing 24-12 against the Grafton Ghosts.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses opened their account for the season with a 6-0 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets.

The Nambucca Roosters had a 28-24 win against the South Grafton Rebels.

Defending premiers the Nambucca Roosters won their second straight game to start the season, beating the South Grafton Rebels 24-0.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses also won their second straight game to start the season, besting the Coffs Harbour Comets 26-16.

The Grafton Ghosts also won their second straight match to start the season, edging out the Sawtell Panthers 18-16.

Under 18s Coffs Harbour Comets started their season with a 32-14 win

This Pizza That voucher on 13 and Johnstone banked the $65 Pro Pin on the last.

The women played an unusual format in a fourball best ball stroke on Wednesday 22 April.

Deb Booth and Robyn Dyer came in at 11-under par with 59 (the equivalent of 47 stableford points) for the victory, one clear of Lisa Urqhart and Debbie Greneger.

Completing the podium on 61 was Urqhart (swinger) and Kerry Shearer.

Pins on 5 went to Henny Oldenhove and Dyer, Susan Barnett on 13 and Greneger on 18 for the

and Chris D'Elboux and Adam Laird, David Davies and Psycho Carr. The Lucky Losers... The Welder, Frank Ronan and Adam Davies and Todd Ryan and Paul Ward. Joe Franck drew Lucky Bowler but missed his rink to make a $540 Jackpot this week.

Sun Apr 26: 24 Sunday Social bowlers and Patto, Bob and Hans won the morning. Deb Key, Jinx and Michelle were the Lucky Losers. The Jackpot was not won and is $85 this week.

$40 Pro Pin.

at home against the Woolgoolga Seahorses.

Sawtell Panthers had an 18-10 win at home against the Grafton Ghosts.

Round 3

The Group 2 Rugby League season continues this weekend with Round 3 matches.

Early season ladder leaders the Sawtell Panthers host the South Grafton Rebels on Sunday afternoon at Rex Hardaker Oval.

The Coffs Harbour Comets hit the road to take on the Macksville Sea Eagles on Sunday afternoon.

The Grafton Ghosts host the Nambucca Roosters to kick off Round 3 on Saturday afternoon.

Rocks, diamonds and always chaotic Ben Venner (24) carded 37 points for the 'W' in the Valla Beach Tavern medley stableford on Tuesday 21 April.

Venner had five pars and a quadruple bogey on the 17th for a tidy 93 off the stick.

Hans Jansen took the NTP on 7, Keith Elphick on 8, Daryl Wall on 13 for the pizza and Peter Miller on 18 for the $20 Pro Pin.

The NIV fun day four person ambrose on Sunday was taken out by J Johnston, I Kenny, M Kenny and B Johnston (team handicap of 6) with

Runners-up were K Pollard, S Pollard, Hope and E Pollard (10) on 54 on countback from Cuthbertson, Glasson, Dyer and Wall.

As well as being posted online and in print by our champion Nambucca News Of The Area, the weekly golf report can be found on the club's website homepage (handy for visitors who may have won something but can't access the members' portal).

Catchya on The Island where the hopes and dreams are at their strongest on the beer garden river deck.

By Manny WOOD

Beachfront deal breaks down

SOLARA, a boutique spa and therapy retreat operating from a prominent beachfront premises on the Gold Coast, agreed to sell their business to Lai Liora, a newly established wellness and recovery centre, for the sum of $2.7 million.

Specialising in cryotherapy and lymphatic drainage treatment, Lai Liora, were eager to establish themselves within the rapidly growing wellness market and viewed the acquisition as a strategic opportunity to secure an established and high-end clientele base in the perfect location.

Lai Liora paid a deposit of $270,000 and the parties executed a standard contract for the sale and purchase of business.

The contract included several special conditions, one of which set out various conditions for completion. It further provided that either party, could rescind the contract by written notice if the completion conditions were not satisfied and upon valid recission, the purchaser was entitled to a refund of the deposit.

Completion was conditional on the purchaser obtaining a lease of the premises within 3 months after exchange. Despite entering into active negotiations with the landlord, Lai Liora was unable to secure a lease within the specified timeframe.

The vendor’s solicitor subsequently issued a notice of termination on the purchaser, stating their client’s intention to retain the deposit, alleging that their failure to obtain a lease constituted a default under the contract. Additionally, claiming Solara had suffered damage exceeding the sum of the deposit.

The purchaser commenced proceedings in the Supreme Court, seeking repayment of the deposit, together with interest and costs.

Satisfied that the contract had been validly rescinded, the Court found that Lai Liora was entitled to a refund of the deposit and ordered in favour of the plaintiff in the amount of $270,000 plus interest and a further order the defendant pay the plaintiff’s costs and disbursements.

Thank you to Rhiannon Beck, for her assistance with this column.

This fictional column is not legal advice.

OPINION & LETTERS Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Verse of the week

By Lynne MILES

Life in a childcare desert

DEAR News Of The Area,

WHEN I fled a violent relationship with my two-year-old son, I didn’t have the luxury of waiting on a two-year childcare waitlist.

I added my son to every waitlist in the area, only to wait four months for a single day of care per week.

Even now, with my son in preschool, the lack of Out of School Hours Care (OOSH) and holiday programs means I am still effectively locked out of the workforce.

My story isn’t unique, it is the baseline for parents in the Nambucca Valley.

We live in a “childcare desert” where more than three children compete for every available childcare space.

For decades, we have left childcare to the “free market”.

In regional Australia, that market has failed us.

When the private sector has failed to provide an essential service, government intervention is the only solution.

On Wednesday night, Nambucca Valley Council decided to do exactly nothing.

I watched with outrage as a proposal to fund a childcare strategy (not to build a childcare centre, just to coordinate a council response) was defeated.

Despite Councillor Jane MacSmith making multiple concessions to address concerns around cost and potential duplication, Councillors Jenvey, McWilliam, Vance, and Mayor Lee voted it down.

This resulted in a 4-4 deadlock and the Mayor used his casting

vote to defeat the strategy.

The excuse given - that it would be a “waste of ratepayers’ money”.

This is a stunningly shortsighted view.

The costs of the lack of childcare are immense.

Regional Development Australia estimates that the lack of childcare in the Mid North Coast region costs families an estimated $384 million a year in lost wages.

Nambucca Heads mother-of-two Holly Quin told the council it had cost her family alone an estimated $40,000 in lost wages over a year.

The impacts are not just economic.

Recent research from the University of New England suggests that childcare is a key determinant of health, and childcare deserts can increase developmental risks for children and mental health struggles for parents.

The lack of childcare unequally impacts women.

In my placement as a social work student, I’ve seen high school students who were forced to miss school to care for younger relatives while their parents worked to keep a roof over their heads.

Is this not a “waste” of our young people’s potential?

Other councils understand that childcare is essential infrastructure, and nearly half of NSW councils operate childcare centres because they are “the provider of last resort”.

Council-run services provide consistently higher quality care than for-profit providers and support vulnerable families that are often turned away by the private market.

The Council’s own Operational Plan promises to “explore long term solutions” for affordable childcare.

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

I RECENTLY went to a fancy dress party as a tradie.

While I normally feel a bit reserved at parties, I was surprised at the number of people who initiated conversations with me.

This helped me relax, and I ended up enjoying myself, whereas normally I'd be looking for an early exit. What does this mean?

Anna L.

Dear

Anna,

This is interesting on a couple of levels.

I could turn it into a punny joke around the tool that tradies hold up against every surface when they visit, straightening picture frames and swivelling the adjustable foot on the washing machine to stop that annoying spin wobble, and holding it vertically against your mother-in-law to make sure her legs are plumb after her knee replacement, but I won't.

I mean it's a genuinely interesting observation you've made.

I have some theories.

1. You felt comfortable in a physical sense: I've spent a time looking at tradies (not in a pervy, don't they make those King Gee Cotton Drill shorts shorter, hey, those Argyle Zip abrasion resistant scuff cap boots sure do accentuate calf muscles, ahem).

I'm of the opinion that tradie gear is practical, roomy, and appropriate for a whole range of social situations.

Compare tradie wear to normal party attire, particularly when you're a woman. Females commonly have to hold parts in and lift parts up and teeter around on heels the size of a precision screwdriver.

Our made-up faces involve more prep than an internal paint

Yet that commitment remains unfunded and, according to internal staff, the Council lacks the internal resources to enable it to be fulfilled.

Council cannot hide behind “lack of resources” when they refuse to even fund the analysis required to get those resources.

We need our councillors Jenvey, McWilliam, Vance, and Mayor Lee

Robbing Mark to pay Richard

DEAR News Of The Area,

LAST week Health Minister Mark Butler announced cuts to the $50 billion NDIS budget with little detail other than the end of support which is coming for an estimated 160,000 current recipients; not to mention future hopefuls.

While few would disagree that there are national budgetary constraints and the NDIS needs structural and financial reform, one questions the motivation

and timing behind such a blunt public policy, especially given that at the same time Defence Minister Richard Marles was announcing an additional $53 billion funding to a pivotal national AUKUS Defence program which has not been debated in our Federal Parliament, and ironically lacks the same fiscal oversight and transparency that we are asking of the NDIS.

While we hear allegations of organized crime using the NDIS to rort the system, you could fill a

job, and don't get me started on the hair and nails.

It's a wonder, by the time we arrive at a social event, that we have the energy to lift a champagne glass, let alone hold a conversation.

And can you imagine, male readers, what it's like to wear heels at an event with multiple surfaces? They get wedged in deck gaps, they act as golfing tees on grass, and the trip hazards on loop-pile carpet aren't worth navigating.

These are the concerns running through our minds while you chat about negative gearing.

What we wouldn't give for some comfort-technology soles, a shirt with handy pockets and elasticised waistband shorts to accommodate the cheese and biscuits. Anna, I can imagine you felt the most comfortable you've ever felt in a party situation.

2. Because you felt comfortable, you looked comfortable, and hence approachable: Because women at parties are going through mental flow charts based on their attire, their facial expressions can give the wrong impression.

A woman pondering, for example, whether another champagne will result in her having to use the bathroom (potentially getting embroiled in new conversations, tripping over a Portuguese Water Dog, stepping gingerly across the aforementioned carpet, breaking a heel on the spiral staircase, then, finally, attempting to wrestle off her shapewear before she wets herself) will not look approachable.

A tradie, though, who knows if he needs a leak he only has to saunter over to the nearest lemon tree, is going to say 'hell, yes' to that fifth beer, another five cracks at the cob loaf dip, and an in-depth conversation about flooding and drainage, because he's relaxed. And the other guests will respond in turn, thinking, 'That Jim guy is easy going. Great conversationalist. Always ready to pass a plate or lift an esky. Not so sure about his wife though. Seems uptight.'

couple of Royal Commissions with the allegations of tendering rorts, corruption and wastage in Defence contracts.

Since when did a percentage of GDP ever become a sensible rationale for setting a Defence budget anyway, let alone a ‘strategy’; unless of course your ‘strategy’ is to appease an increasingly dodgy major alliance partner?

Of course, if we asked the gas exporters to pay tax on our gas which they sell overseas, we would

to start treating this like the crisis this is. Instead they have chosen to leave working families stranded in a childcare desert.

Way Way.

probably be able to service the needs of pretty much all Australians with special needs.

It’s called ‘investing in our future’ isn’t it?

It’s pretty obvious who has the current Government's ear.

Regards, Dave WOOD, Boambee East.

SUDOKU

To that good samaritan: thank you. Kindness sits really nicely with you. Regards, Judy QUICKENDEN, Coffs Harbour.

John Gardner

Aged 98 years.

Of Nambucca Heads passed away on 23 Apr 2026. He was the beloved husband of Joyce (dec), Much loved father to Eric, Geoffrey and Robyn, and Cherished Pa to 6 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

John will always be remembered for his lifelong commitment and contributions to the community.

A private cremation was held.

Bernard Laverty Funerals Tel: 6568 1555

Public Notices

NAMBUCCA HEADS

LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL (NHLALC) NOTICE OF MEMBERS MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

Date: Monday, 11th May 2026

Time: 4:15pm

Notice is hereby given of the 2023/2024 Annual Meeting of the NHLALC.

Public Notices

Location: Nambucca Heads Community & Arts Centre

DATE: Friday 28th March 2025

21 Ridge Street, Nambucca Heads

TIME: 10am

Agenda:

LOCATION: Muurraby Language Centre Bellwood Rd, Nambucca Heads

AGENDA:

1. Welcome & Apologies

3. Update of the NHLALC operations - Finance & compliance

4. Update on proposed Lease - Pre-School

1. Welcomes/Apologies;

2. Receipt of the Annual Report and CLBP Implementation report 2023/2024;

All enquiries about this meeting should be directed to the LALC office during business hours. All Members are encouraged to attend.

3. Receipt of the Audited financial statements and management letter 2023/2024;

NAMBUCCA HEADS LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL (NHLALC) NOTICE OF ORDINARY MEMBERS MEETING

Date: Monday, 11th May 2026

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

Time: 3.30pm

Notice is hereby given of the 2023/2024 Annual Meeting of the NHLALC.

AUTHORISED: Nambucca Heads LALC.

4. Casual Vacancy Election; 5. Other Business.

In relation to the election for Board members:

Location: Nambucca Heads Community & Arts Centre

21 Ridge Street, Nambucca Heads

DATE: Friday 28th March 2025

Agenda:

TIME: 10am

1. Welcome & Apologies

LOCATION: Muurraby Language Centre Bellwood Rd, Nambucca Heads

3. Update of the NHLALC operations - Governance - Office and Staffing

A voting member of NHLALC is not entitled to vote, nominate, accept a nomination or be elected to office in elections for Board Members if the voting member has not attended at least 2 meetings of the NHLALC in the preceding 12 months as a voting member.

Public Notices

Positions Vacant

News Of The Area newspapers is looking for an Advertising Sales Representative to work for the Coffs Coast and Nambucca

News Of The Area publications.

The fantastic local role is available full-time or part-time, to ensure we appoint the right person for the position.

Whilst you are part of a great team, bringing out the local newspaper each week, you would be working from home, so a suitable home-office setup is required.

The right person would be a proven sales professional. You might not have newspaper or media experience, however a track record within a sales environment is essential.

Your daily role is focused on finding and presenting-to businesses who may use our newspapers to reach their customers.

You would require a driver’s licence, car and computer with reliable internet service.

An attractive base remuneration is offered, along with car allowance, internet allowance and great bonus structure. You will be provided with a business smart phone. Applications can be made by emailing your resume, together with a Letter of Application, which should outline why you would be the best person for this role.

Email: office@newsofthearea.com.au Applications close: 5pm, 11th May 2026.

AGENDA:

1. Welcomes/Apologies;

2. Receipt of the Annual Report and CLBP Implementation report 2023/2024;

All enquiries about this meeting should be directed to the LALC office during business hours. All Members are encouraged to attend.

Any queries in relation to this meeting can be directed to the NHLALC CEO during business hours.

AUTHORISED: Nambucca Heads LALC

3. Receipt of the Audited financial statements and management letter 2023/2024; 4. Casual Vacancy Election; 5. Other Business.

In relation to the election for Board members:

A voting member of NHLALC is not entitled to vote, nominate, accept a nomination or be elected to office in elections for Board Members if the voting member has not attended at least 2 meetings of the NHLALC in the preceding 12 months as a voting member.

Any queries in relation to this meeting can be directed to the NHLALC CEO during business hours.

Alterations Home based clothing/homewares alterations. Nayomi 0412

AUTHORISED BY: Alana Greenup, Chairperson - Nambucca Heads LALC

Nala is a lovely Sharpei x with a gentle nature and a soft heart. She can be a little timid when you first meet her, but once she feels safe and begins to trust you, her true personality shines through. With time and patience, Nala blossoms into a fun, affectionate little sweetheart who enjoys attention and being around her people.

Adoption fee for 2025/2026 is $230 and this includes microchipping, vaccination, desexing and Lifetime registration.

AUTHORISED BY: Alana Greenup, Chairperson - Nambucca Heads LALC

Please visit Councils website to view the full list of animals available for adoption or lost. For any adoption enquiries please complete the Adoption Enquiry Form on Council’s Website.

NAMBUCCA VALLEY

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

PATIENCE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

The simmering tension between unconventional crime solver Patience (Ella Maisy Purvis, pictured) and detective Frankie Monroe (Jessica Hynes) reaches boiling point this week as the two clash over a crime scene. While they don’t see eye to eye on whether foul play is involved in the death of a botanist – or indeed the order in which they ought to investigate it – Patience really puts her superior offside by tripping over and destroying evidence, creating a mountain of paperwork. While Monroe charges headfirst into proving her instincts about the victim’s brother, Patience takes her time delving into the woman’s work history to find answers about the undetectable poison used to kill her.

TUESDAY

CLARKSON’S FARM

NBN, 8.30pm

Old habits die hard, and for professional revhead and former Top Gear co-host Jeremy Clarkson, that means there’s no problem that can’t be solved by acquiring an overpowered luxury vehicle. With his creaking old tractor out of action, the all-the-gear-and-no-idea Clarkson needs to get the ploughing on his Cotswold farm finished in time to plant a field of durum wheat. The answer?

A bright green Lamborghini (naturally!) with GPS, a 7.8L engine and 340 horsepower. Farm manager Kaleb (above right, with Clarkson) is enthusiastic about the equipment at first, but a complex new console design and Clarkson’s “press buttons and find out” approach become a hilarious headache.

FRIDAY, May 1

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6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.55 The Assembly. (PG, R) 1.40 Bad Company. (PG, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. (PG) Josh Byrne uncovers a rare fruit collection.

8.35 Patience. (Mad) A woman is found dead under a poisonous tree.

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

10.00 Urzila. (Mals, R)

10.25 ABC Late News.

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

11.30 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R)

12.20 Love Me. (MA15+s, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.20pm

6.40

6.35

6.25

6.50

And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.10 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.50 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 A New ANZAC. (Ma)

9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PGa, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 The King. (Madlv)

11.50 Babylon Berlin. (Ma, R)

1.35 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R)

3.45 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

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

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

8.00 Sydney Weekender Special. Discovers the best Sydney has to offer.

9.00 MOVIE: Shotgun Wedding. (2022, Malv) When a couple gather their families for the ultimate destination wedding, the entire wedding party is taken hostage. Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel.

11.05 To Be Advised.

12.40 Quacks. (Premiere, MA15+d)

1.25 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

THURSDAY

TASKMASTER AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7.30pm

It’s been a long time coming –the lineup for this fifth cast of Taskmaster Australia was announced in March 2025 – but the latest edition of the comedy game show is worth the wait. Three-time Gold Logie winner Rove McManus, Rosehaven award-winning stand-up Celia Pacquola (pictured), radio star Joel Creasey, comedian Brett Blake and up-and-comer Anisa Nandaula don’t hold back when it comes to trying to earn the approval of Taskmaster Tom Gleeson. In this season premiere, the quintet of comics hold memorials for eggs and take on new middle names.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 9. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm.

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

10.45 MOVIE: The Many Saints Of Newark. (2021, MA15+alsv, R) Alessandro Nivola.

1.00 Open For Inspection. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 The Nanny. 9.30 The Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 My Way. 11.45 Rugby Heaven. 12.45pm Premier League Stories. 1.15

The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew

SATURDAY, May 2

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (M) The team welcomes a new recruit before they’re faced with a cryptic case in which the victim has left them a mysterious message.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Return, Mlv) Jack is apprehensive about the arrival of his new boss, having heard she is difficult. 10.15 Bergerac. (M, R) Shocking events unfold at a wedding reception.

11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGa)

8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)

9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (R)

10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 Matched. (PG, R)

2.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)

3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

8.00 Oops I Bought A Pub! (Premiere, PGal) Hosted by Shane Jacobson.

8.30 MOVIE: Hidden Figures. (2016, PGal, R) Three African American mathematicians play a vital role in NASA during the early years of the space program. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe.

11.05 To Be Advised.

12.05 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. (1977, PGv, R) A young man sets out to rescue a princess. Mark Hamill.

10.00 MOVIE: Justice League. (2017, Mv, R) Ben Affleck.

12.10 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

1.05 Tasman Trails. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A new couple are ready to make a commitment. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (PGl) A couple contemplate leaving their home of 11 years. While he loves it, she feels the place is outdated. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R) In Brisbane, a bystander calls in a crash in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD involving a motorcyclist and taxi. 10.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) The team continues tracing Senior’s money trail. 11.30 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) A patriarch is stabbed at a debutante ball. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.40 Merlin. 11.25 Late Programs.

SBS

6am The Movie Show. 6.10 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 7.45 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 10.00 Heartbreak Ridge. (1986, M) 12.20pm But I’m A Cheerleader. (1999, M) 1.55 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 3.40 Discovering Film. 4.35 One Of Our Aircraft Is Missing. (1942, PG) 6.30 Le Samourai. (1967, PG, French) 8.30 The Gentlemen. (2019, MA15+) 10.40 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 3

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Claudia Karvan.

8.15 Bad Company. (Mn) Threatening staff cuts, Julia is challenged when her bored son explores the theatre.

8.40 Bergerac. (MA15+) Bergerac believes police corruption played a part in a murder.

9.25 Death In Paradise. (M, R) The team welcomes a new recruit.

10.25 Silent Witness. (Mlv, R)

12.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.05 Tiddler. 10.30 Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Emerald. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper Crew. 8.05 Secrets At Red Rocks. 8.30 Animal Park. 10.00 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Anne Boleyn And Elizabeth I: Prisoner Queens.

8.25 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (PG, R) 9.25 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (Maw, R)

10.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa, R) 11.10 Frogmore House: Royal Retreat. (PGa, R)

12.25 My Rembetika Blues. (PGadl, R) 2.00 Matched. (PG, R) 2.50 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PG, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

News Compass Points. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Star Wars. 10.20 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 11.25 House Of Blak: Miss First Nation. 11.55 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 1am Late

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 10.20 Wonderfully Beautiful. (2022, M, German) 12.45pm 20,000 Species Of Bees. (2023, M, Spanish) 3.00 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 4.30 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 6.35 Loophole. (1981, PG) 8.30 Snatch. (2000, MA15+) 10.25 The Invisible Wounds. (2024, M, French) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The 1% Club. (PGdln) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.

8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.00 Betrayal. (Premiere, MA15+lv) When an assassination links a veteran MI5 agent to a conspiracy, he races to find the truth.

11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: Predators. (MA15+a, R)

12.30 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

9GO!

6am Children’s Programs.

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Gowings progresses vision for shark-deterrent surfboard fins

FROM Page 20

and make safety accessible to everyone.”

The core goal is the creation of a commercially viable solution

integrating shark deterrent technology directly into the surfboard fin, thus removing the need for additional wearable devices or equipment. The project partners include the

fin manufacturer FCS, renowned Australian industrial design studio Vert Design, and academic collaborations with the University of New South Wales and the University of Wollongong.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Floor. (PG)

8.10 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators: Deadly Obsession. (Mav) Looks at Rachel Barber’s disappearance. 10.15 9News Late.

The First 48. (Mav, R) 11.40 American Ripper. (Mav)

Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

Today Early News.

8.00 MOVIE: Twinkle All The Way. (2019) 9.50 MOVIE: Christmas In Alaska. (2023, PG) 11.35 Seinfeld. 12.05pm Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Newcastle. 2.05 Snackmasters. 3.40 MOVIE: The Dust Factory. (2004, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. (1987, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Suicide Squad. (2016, M) 9.55 MOVIE: Joker. (2019, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 MOVIE: How To Fall In Love By Christmas. (2023) 10.45 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 6 Hours Of Imola. H’lights. 11.50 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester United v Brentford. 1.50pm The Summit. 3.30 The Toys That Built The World. 5.30 MOVIE: The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part. (2019, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Godzilla: King Of The Monsters. (2019, M) 10.05 Late Programs.

Material innovation is a critical component and additional partnerships with the Australian Composites Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (ACM CRC) will enable the development of advanced, lightweight solutions suited to surfing.

The innovation is designed to work with the inherent properties of the board, maintaining responsiveness, maximising

lightness and ensuring minimal interference for the surfer.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) supports the use of personal shark deterrents as part of broader shark management strategies to reduce, though not eliminate, bite risk.

Independent testing has shown that electronic deterrents can be effective in deterring white sharks within a close range

MONDAY, May 4

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.30 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. (Final) 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (Return) 8.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) 9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Premiere, Masv) 12.15 Gomorrah. (MA15+sv, R) 3.00 Mountain Vets. (PGa, R) 4.05 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (Mal, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (M) 8.40 9-1-1. (M) May attempts to secure her first law internship.

9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)

10.40 The Agenda Setters.

11.40 Happy’s Place. (Premiere, PGal)

12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie

Show. 6.35 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 8.35 Loophole. (1981, PG) 10.30 Ghoomer. (2023, M, Hindi) 12.55pm Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 3.00 Discovering Film. 3.50 Le Samourai. (1967, PG, French) 5.50 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 7.30 The Three Musketeers: D’artagnan. (2023, M, French) 9.50 Heavy Trip. (2018, MA15+, Finnish) 11.30 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 5

7MATE (64)

The Nanny. 9.30 The Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Innovation Nation. 11.40 Jeopardy! UK. 12.40pm MOVIE: Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. (1987, PG) 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Bodyguard. (1992,

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.05 Exit. (MA15+av)

12.00 Breaking Point. (MA15+a, R)

2.35 Giving Back: Students Who Returned. (PGal, R)

4.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.25 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 8.25 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 10.05 White Squall. (1996, M) 12.25pm Let Me Go. (2023, M, French) 2.05 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 4.00 Loophole. (1981, PG) 6.00 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 The King Of Laughter. (2021, M, Italian) 10.00 Fame. (1980, M) 12.30am Made In America. (1993, M) 2.35 Late Programs.

Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PGl) An announcement turns the competition on its head. 9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

The Agenda Setters.

Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav, R)

New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

Harry’s Practice. (R)

Home Shopping. (R)

Sunrise Early News.

7MATE (64)

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WEDNESDAY, May 6

Chronology Of A Disaster.

8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (Premiere)

9.25 The Audacity. (M) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+sv) 12.05 Blue Lights. (MA15+a, R)

2.05 Classified. (Mlv, R)

3.45 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R)

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

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

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M)

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Why Trains Crash. (PGa, R)

12.15 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R) 12.45 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

Events That Changed Australia. (Mal)

Outback Murder Highway. (Mavv)

The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav, R)

9News Late.

Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm TBA. 5.40 Children’s Programs. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.30 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.35 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.30 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Most

Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.00

The Movie Show. 8.35 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 10.10 The Three Musketeers: D’artagnan. (2023, M, French) 12.25pm Fame. (1980, M) 2.55 Discovering Film. 3.50 Lassie: A New Adventure. (2023, PG, German) 5.35 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.45

A Private Function. (1984, M) 9.30 Brassed Off. (1996, M) 11.25 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, May 7

1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: Born Without

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PGav)

8.35 American Prince: JFK Jr. (Ml, R)

9.25 Riot Women. (MA15+l)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Under The Bridge. (Ml)

11.55 The Unusual Suspects. (Mdl, R)

1.50 Beyond Signs. (MA15+av, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 Colors Of The Islands: The Caribbean. (PGaw, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 American Godfathers: The Five Families. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Brassic. Midnight Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.25 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 10.25

The King Of Laughter. (2021, M, Italian) 12.55pm Official Competition. (2021, M, Spanish) 3.00 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 4.35 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 7.25 The Straight Story. (1999, PG) 9.30 Danny Collins. (2015, M) 11.30 May December. (2023, MA15+) 1.40am Late Programs.

Australia’s Deadliest. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s

7MATE (64)

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

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGa) Street racers reach 192kmh.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec. 10.30 To Be Advised.

11.30 Code Blue: One Punch Killers. (Madv, R)

12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7MATE (64)

Lifelong surfer John Gowing leads the “Sea Surf Force Field” project, with recent shark attacks across Australia bringing renewed urgency to the mission.

John's vision has evolved, over a lifetime involved with the ocean, into a focused effort to design a practical solution.

“As surfers, we accept the ocean comes with risk but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep pushing for better solutions,” said John.

“If we can build protection directly into something every surfer already uses, like fins, we remove barriers

CONTINUED