LOCAL business representatives attending Nambucca Valley Council’s Business Leaders event last Thursday were introduced to a free online tool designed to help them better understand the region.
The event, held on 26 March, highlighted Profile ID, a demographic and economic data platform available to both Council and the wider community.
Council’s Manager Economic Development and Tourism, Janice Rooney, thanked statistician Glenn Capuano for presenting the online tool at Council Chambers.
Ms Rooney said the resource could help local businesses make more informed decisions.
“Council subscribes to the Profile ID community profile, social atlas, and economic profile tool kits, which gives both Council and our community in-depth insights into what’s happening in our community,” she said.
The tool provides information on population trends, economic activity and social patterns across the Nambucca Valley.
“The community profile, for example, indicates that our gross regional product is currently $0.89 billion and approximately 200 people move into our valley each year from other parts of Australia, often from Sydney and the Gold Coast.
“Insights like this help local businesses better understand the community, track changing demographics, and identify emerging opportunities.”
The Community Profile section of the platform provides detailed demographic information about the local area.
The Social Atlas includes maps that show how different areas of the Valley are changing and where services and resources may be needed.
The Economic Profile module offers information on local industry, employment and the wider economy, along with modelling tools to examine the impact of future changes.
Council said the information could be useful for local businesses, community organisations and anyone interested in understanding how the Nambucca Valley is
growing and changing.
The Profile ID Community Profile can be accessed online through Council’s website.
The Social Atlas and Economic Profile are also available online.
Council’s monthly Business Leaders networking events are open to all local business owners and employees.
People interested in future events can subscribe to Council’s monthly Valley Biz News e-newsletter through the Nambucca Valley Council website.
q Business NSW Regional Director Mid North Coast Rod Barnaby, Council Manager Economic Development and Tourism Jan Rooney, local business owner James Byrne, and Business NSW Strategic Partnerships Manager Lauren Charlton. Photo: supplied.
begin to emerge.
Positive start for Scotts Head Master Plan Reference Group
FROM Page 1
The Reference Group met for the first time on Thursday 26 March following Nambucca Valley Council’s call for expressions of interest late last year.
The meeting was opened by Deputy Mayor Susan Jenvey and attended by representatives from Council, Reflections Holidays and the Scotts Head community.
“It was a productive night where we discussed the master plan’s scope, timeframe and everyone shared what they wanted to get out of the plan,” said Council Director Engineering Services David Moloney
“We are looking forward to engaging with the broader community to create the master plan together.”
Reflections Holidays Regional Manager
Scott Burns said there was strong enthusiasm among those taking part in the process.
“It’s heartening to see the enthusiasm of those at the PRG meeting as we work together to achieve a future vision for this coastal village,” he said.
Scotts Head Community Group Inc Chairperson Tony Crimmins said the process would allow residents to have meaningful input into the future of local public spaces and foreshore areas.
“The master planning process is a great opportunity for the Scotts Head community to review the current state and management of the town’s beautiful foreshore areas.
“Our community is really keen to have its say in how our foreshore areas and public spaces are managed into the future.”
The Scotts Head Master Plan is intended to provide a framework for the future management of the village’s foreshore areas and public spaces.
Reflections Holidays is contributing financially to the project and, as a major tourism operator in Scotts Head, will also help inform the planning process.
The project will include two phases of community consultation.
The first phase is expected to take place from late April to mid-May 2026.
It will include an online survey and a community event on 3 May 2026, where the key themes of the master plan will be presented.
A second round of consultation is planned for late June to early July, when early ideas and concepts for different parts of the plan will
The Project Reference Group is expected to meet twice more following each stage of community consultation.
A draft master plan is due to be presented to Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 28 October 2026.
If Councillors agree to place the draft on public exhibition, a further round of consultation and formal submissions will take place during October and November.
The Scotts Head Master Plan Project Reference Group includes Mayor Gary Lee, Director Engineering Services David Moloney, Reflections Holidays Scotts Head Park Manager Caroline Winter, Scotts Head Community Group Inc Chairperson Tony Crimmins, MacksvilleScotts Head SLSC’s Eric Graham and community representatives John Schmidt, Nicole Lane and Liam Swan.
More information about the Scotts Head Master Plan is available on Nambucca Valley Council’s website.
the entire network.
Mountain bike club launches new way to care for Jacks Ridge trails
FROM Page 1
kilometres from the Nambucca Visitor Centre, Jacks Ridge Mountain Bike Park sits within Nambucca State Forest and features more than 26 kilometres of hand-built crosscountry trails through bushland.
The park caters for riders of all skill levels and is well known for its impressive wooden features, including Phil’s Flyover and the legendary Big Boris.
Founded in 2011 as the Nambucca Valley Cycle Club, the club now trades as the Nambucca Valley Mountain Bike Club to better reflect its focus.
Club volunteers have always maintained the park through organised working bees.
However, feedback from riders revealed many people wanted to help but could not make the scheduled times.
The Adopt-a-Track scheme was created to provide a more flexible option.
Under the program, volunteers choose a section of track to look after, decide when they want to do the work and can even choose who they do it with.
The minimum commitment is just two hours a month.
“People told us they wanted to help, but work, family and other commitments meant they couldn’t always get to a working bee,” Nambucca Valley Mountain Bike Club member Ruth Miller told News of the Area.
“This scheme gives people the freedom to contribute in a way that suits them, while still making a real difference to the park.”
Volunteers complete a short induction before starting and sign on and off each time they work on the tracks.
Track safety signs are used and volunteers wear appropriate protective clothing, particularly for their eyes and ears.
Club membership also includes AusCycling volunteer insurance.
The work itself is straightforward.
Volunteers rake or blow leaves from the tracks, clear drains, trim light overhanging foliage, move sticks and branches and brushcut grass that is starting to creep onto the trails.
The trial has already produced impressive results.
In the first four weeks, 12 people signed up and completed 15 track maintenance sessions.
Together they contributed almost 39 hours of work and have adopted an estimated 6.6 kilometres of track, around a quarter of
The extra maintenance has made the tracks safer, easier to follow and more enjoyable to ride.
The club has also noticed improved emergency access to some areas.
On the Roller Coaster emergency exits off Big Boris, volunteers discovered trees blocking the access routes and quickly cleared them.
“Having more people out on the tracks more often means issues are picked up earlier,” Ms Miller said.
“It might be a blocked drain, a fallen tree,
a damaged timber feature or simply a section of trail that needs some attention.
“It also means our members can choose the cooler parts of the day or work around the weather, which makes it much easier for people to get involved.”
The club says the scheme has also created more opportunities for members to connect with one another and talk about the tracks.
It is hoped the program will also help promote the park to a wider audience through social media and encourage more people to visit.
Recent visitors to Jacks Ridge included
the Ride to Fly mountain bike fundraiser for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
The club believes having more of the network in top condition at any one time will help ensure visitors continue to leave with a positive impression.
“Jacks Ridge is already regarded as one of the best mountain bike parks on the east coast and this scheme will help us build on that reputation,” Ms Miller said.
Anyone interested in joining the Adopt-a-Track scheme or learning more about the club can contact Ruth Miller at ruthmiller5212@gmail.com.
PUBLICATION ORDER WILD CATTLE CREEK
Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) has been convicted in the Land and Environment Court for four offences under the Forestry Act 2012 for breaching conditions of the Coastal Integrated Forestry Operations Approval (CIFOA) during forestry operations in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest between June and July 2020.
FCNSW breached the CIFOA by failing to identify, map and record six giant trees and three hollow-bearing trees during broad area habitat searches conducted prior to forestry operations in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. As a result, these nine trees were unlawfully felled by FCNSW’s logging contractors, so causing harm to the environment.
The prosecution was brought by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (the EPA) and FCNSW pleaded guilty to the offences. On 13 March 2026 the Court convicted FCNSW of each offence and determined that FCNSW should pay a monetary penalty totalling $450,000. The Court ordered FCNSW to pay the amount of the monetary penalty in lieu of a fine to undertake restorative justice activities and bio-cultural repair of the affected locations. The Court also ordered FCNSW undertake an audit of its internal procedures, instruction and training relating to the identification and retention of giant trees and hollow-bearing trees and implement the recommendations of the audit. FCNSW was ordered to pay the EPA’s legal costs as agreed or assessed and publish this notice in State-wide, local and industry publications. LT1029
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Relief for struggling motorists as fuel tax slashed
By DE SILVA and Grace CRIVELLARO, AAP
AUSTRALIANS under the pump from sky-high fuel prices will get some financial relief after the federal government succumbed to pressure to halve the tax on petrol and diesel.
The decision to cut the fuel excise from the start of April will save motorists about $19 on a 65-litre tank, or 26.3 cents a litre, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said after a meeting of national cabinet on Monday.
State and territory leaders also ratified a plan to respond to the economic shockwaves from the war in the Middle East, which may include fuel rationing if supplies of oil begin to dry up.
"The longer this war goes on, the worse the impacts will be," Mr Albanese told reporters at Parliament House in Canberra.
"I and the government understand that people are really worried but we have a plan to get through this."
The framework for responding to fuel shortages has four levels of action: plan and prepare, keeping Australia moving, taking targeted action, and protecting critical services for all Australians.
The second level - keeping Australia moving - was in force, Mr Albanese said.
Under the third level - taking targeted action - governments will look for "practical measures" to reduce people's fuel use.
The highest level of response would require stronger demand measures to ensure emergency services, utilities and other critical workers can get access to fuel.
Senior ministers have previously said rationing and COVID-style mandates were a last resort, preferring voluntary steps like encouraging Australians to work from home where possible.
Along with cutting the fuel excise, the government will also cut the road-user charge, which affects heavy vehicles.
The two measures would work in tandem to provide cost-of-living relief, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.
Together, the reduced tax and levy incomes would cost the budget $2.55 billion over the three-month period.
A scheduled increase to the heavy vehicle road user charge will also be delayed by six months, costing an additional $53 million in foregone revenue.
Dr Chalmers said he had asked the consumer watchdog to ensure the price cut was passed on to consumers.
"If you do the wrong thing by Australian motorists and Australian truckies, the ACCC will come down on you like a tonne of bricks," he said.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor had been calling for the fuel excise to be cut since Friday, and on Monday accused the prime minister of being the "last to lead" in a national crisis.
"Australian families and small businesses will pay less for fuel because the coalition led and the government followed," he said in a statement.
"We welcome the national fuel security plan, but the reality is we still do not have a clear plan
to get fuel to the servos that have run dry."
The National Road Transport Association said the cut to the road user charge was welcome, but many freight operators would still be under financial pressure.
"These companies still have March's fuel bill to pay," the association's chief executive Warren Clark said in a statement.
"Fuel prices remain high, cash flow is tight, and businesses are working hard to stay on the road."
Earlier, Energy Minister Chris Bowen introduced emergency legislation to parliament, allowing the government to take on the financial risk of importing extra fuel into Australia.
"The risk premium for purchasing discretionary cargoes is rising," he told parliament.
"Work to scope deals and secure additional fuel is already under way."
"That's why today's bill is so urgent. This bill creates a strategic reserve to secure the supply of strategic materials that are vital for Australia's economy."
The laws were expected to pass the lower house with bipartisan support on Monday and be debated in the Senate on Tuesday.
Australia has 39 days of petrol, 30 days of diesel and 30 days of jet fuel stockpiled, Mr Bowen said.
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
(Notice of Application for Integrated Development pursuant to Schedule 1, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979).
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a development application has been received by Nambucca Valley Council. The proposed development is defined as “Integrated Development” under Section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 as approval is required from the NSW Rural Fire Service under Section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997 and from NSW Water under s91 of the Water Management Act 2000.
Applicant: Taree Lands Pty Ltd
DA/File No: DA 2026/049
Property Description: Lot 2 DP 773170 & Lot 1 DP 1298652 - 166 Bald Hill Road, Gumma
The development application may be inspected at Council’s Administration Centre, 44 Princess Street, Macksville, during office hours being 8.30 am to 4.00 pm weekdays from 7 April 2026 until 8 May 2026. Documents relating to the proposal may also be viewed at www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au – DAs Online. Please note that when searching for a DA in DAs Online the application number is entered first, then the year, eg DA 2026/049 would be entered as 049/2026.
Any person may make written submissions or objections in respect of the proposal which should be lodged with the undersigned no later than 8 May 2026. Submissions must be addressed to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447 or sent by email to council@nambucca.nsw.gov.au. It is requested that submissions in support or objection list reasons. The provision of a name, address and contact telephone number will enable Council to inform you about the progress and outcome of the matter. Please note that any submission may be incorporated in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed.
Note: Your attention is drawn to Section 10.4 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 which requires those making a submission to disclose all “reportable political donations and gifts”. All submissions will be acknowledged following Council’s determination of the application. For further information regarding this proposal, please contact Michael Coulter on 6568 2555.
PO BOX 177
MACKSVILLE NSW 2447
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
DRAFT POLICY ON EXHIBITION – CEMETERY POLICY DE 15
A copy of the Draft Cemetery Policy – DE 15 will be on public exhibition until 1 May 2026 with written submissions received up until 4.00pm on 24 April 2026. The Draft Cemetery Policy is available for viewing at Council’s Administration Centre, 44 Princess Street, Macksville, and on Council’s website, here https://www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au/Council/ News-Community-Feedback/Advertisements-Documents-on-Exhibition/Draft-CemeteryPolicy-DE15
Any submission may be incorporated in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed. Submissions should be addressed to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447 or via Email to council@nambucca.nsw.gov.au.
ENQUIRIES TO: Daniel Walsh, Director Development and Environment Services (02) 6568 2555
NEW ROAD NAME
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
The following name has been suggested for a new local road being constructed in association with a new subdivision off Red Ash Road, Valla: Location: Valla New Name: Buuluga Road
A period of twenty-one (21) days from the date of publication of this notice is allowed to receive written submissions to the proposed name. Objectors must set out relevant reasons. The closing date being 24 April 2026.
Please note that any submission may be incorporated in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed. Submissions should be addressed to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447.
ENQUIRIES TO: Development Engineer PO BOX 177 Nambucca Valley Council MACKSVILLE NSW 2447 02 6568 0257
q The fuel excise will be temporarily cut to ease the pain of high petrol prices for motorists. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
Resident says rail service ‘broken’
By Mike HELY
A MID NORTH COAST woman whose elderly sister was hospitalised while travelling by coach between Brisbane and Coffs Harbour, believes the NSW regional rail service is fragmented, unreliable and “a disgrace”.
Julianne McKeon said her 84-year-old sister and 90-year-old brother-in-law relied on public transport because driving long distances was no longer safe.
“What should have been a straightforward rail journey became a maze of coach substitutions, excessive delays, and late-night arrivals,” Mrs McKeon said.
“On the return journey, my sister fell while attempting to access an onboard toilet during an extended coach diversion and was admitted overnight to Byron Bay Hospital.
“This is not an isolated inconvenience - it is a systemic failure.
“I see it as an equity issue.
“The current service is unsafe for older
passengers, people with disabilities, people who cannot afford to fly, those who are more vulnerable and anyone who cannot drive.
“In regional NSW, rail is not a luxury - it is essential infrastructure.”
She said train departure times of approximately 5am southbound from Brisbane and midnight northbound from Coffs Harbour effectively exclude elderly passengers from using rail.
“Frequent and unexplained substitutions with long-distance coaches mean passengers are denied basic amenities such as access to food, toilets, and safe boarding,” Mrs McKeon said.
“In a country that prides itself on fairness and regional access, this standard of transport is unacceptable.
“No one should risk injury simply to visit family.”
She has written to Coffs Harbour MP
Gurmesh Singh and NSW Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison, seeking an urgent review of the Coffs Harbour-Brisbane service, improved timetable reliability, reduced coach substitutions, and assurances of safe, accessible travel for vulnerable passengers.
weather impacts.”
Mr Singh said he was waiting for a response from Minister Aitchison after making representations on Mrs McKeon’s behalf.
He said in an ideal world he would welcome additional services and more flexible time scheduling, “but given that we’re in the middle of that route between Sydney and Brisbane, often it’s us who are the most inconvenienced”.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said, “Over the past 12 months, approximately two percent of services between Brisbane and Coffs Harbour were fully replaced by coach transport, while 14 percent were partially replaced for sections of the journey.
“Planned disruptions and unplanned disruptions may at times cause train services to be replaced by coaches.
“These include scheduled trackwork and
He said the $40.3 million XPT Life Extension Project – the reason behind the switch to coaches locally on 28 April last year – was to “ensure the current fleet continues to provide passengers with a reliable and comfortable service until the next generation regional rail fleet is ready to be introduced into passenger service".
“For a 12-month period during the XPT Life Extension Project, premium coaches are replacing XPTs on the Grafton route,” the spokesperson said.
“These coaches are wheelchair accessible, maintaining our commitment to inclusive travel for all passengers. Trains are scheduled to resume on the Grafton service in the first half of this year.
“Throughout this period, Coffs Harbour has continued to be serviced by four other daily rail options - on the Brisbane and Casino XPT services.”
q
to Sydney pulls into Coffs Harbour Railway Station.
q Julianne McKeon, who is advocating for improvements to local rail services.
q An XPT service to Sydney departs Coffs Harbour Railway Station.
Valla suburb name to stay
By Mick BIRTLES
AT last week’s Ordinary Meeting of Nambucca Valley Council, Councillors voted to retain the suburb name of Valla for the area surrounding the Valla Urban Growth Area mixed-use precinct and Boggy Creek Road.
Deputy Mayor Susan Jenvey, who moved the motion, said the decision reflected the wishes of the community.
“I’m very pleased about retaining the suburb name of Valla as I know from many months, if not years of discussion, it is the name the majority of the community support,” she said.
“As you know, everyone at Boggy Creek, they do consider themselves to live at Valla.
“It supports Valla being a big presence within our LGA.”
The issue has been the subject of community discussion for an extended period.
At Council’s Public Forum in November 2025, three residents
from Boggy Creek Road spoke in support of keeping the Valla name.
Among them was Samantha Cox, who presented a petition signed by 57 residents supporting the continued use of Valla for the area.
“After doing a petition on behalf of our neighbours and other residents here, we are very happy Council is supporting the current name of Valla,” she said.
“It’s a historical name. We have many generations of people who have lived along Boggy Creek Road who have called this area Valla, so it is a relief to know the name will stay.”
Council also settled on the first internal road name for the Valla Urban Growth Area.
The road running through the centre of the Stage One industrial precinct will be known as Buuluga Road.
Buuluga means Black Myrtle in the Gumbaynggirr language.
The name had previously been endorsed by the Muurrbay Aboriginal Language and Culture
Cooperative.
An application for the name will now be lodged with the NSW Geographical Names Board.
The proposed road name will be placed on public exhibition for 21 days from 3 April 2026.
Community members wishing to comment on the proposed name can lodge submissions with the General Manager at Nambucca Valley
Council, PO Box 177, Macksville NSW 2447.
Council advised that any submissions received may be included in a future business paper or otherwise made public.
Submissions close on 24 April 2026.
Buuluga Road is expected to be bitumen sealed in May 2026.
The Stage One industrial land
within the Valla Urban Growth Area is expected to be released to the market later this year.
The first stage of the Valla Urban Growth Area project is being funded through a combined $11.2 million investment from the Australian and NSW Governments, together with a further $17 million contribution from Nambucca Valley Council.
Crown land bill to undergo further consultation
THE NSW Government’s Crown Land Management Amendment (Statutory Review) Bill 2026 has been deferred, to allow for more consultation on proposed changes.
The bill, introduced to parliament on 17 March, faced fierce criticism from legal experts and Indigenous land rights advocates.
Critics argued the bill would limit the ability of Aboriginal land councils to claim unused Crown land.
The NSW Aboriginal Land Council warned it could hollow out Aboriginal land rights, while the NSW Greens said it “attacks Aboriginal land claims by stealth”.
The Law Society of NSW (LSNSW) said the bill should be withdrawn immediately before it resulted in “further potential injustice” to NSW Aboriginal communities.
LSNSW President Ronan MacSweeney said one provision in the proposed bill could significantly affect land rights claims under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (ALRA) 1983 (NSW).
“This legislation fundamentally alters what has been long understood to be land claimable under the ALRA,” he said.
According to LSNSW, the proposed new section s 5.20B(4)
of the Crown Land Management Amendment (CLMA) would deem the granting of a lease under that Act as “lawful use for the purposes of another Act”.
They say this could enable the Government to “bank” any Crown land simply by granting a lease and then “sit” on that land without using it.
Mr MacSweeney said that this subsection was included in the Bill among a number of provisions which responded to a recent statutory review of the CLMA.
“The Law Society is concerned that this proposed section, which has the potential to thwart otherwise valid claims by Aboriginal communities to disused Crown land, was not a recommendation of the statutory review,” Mr MacSweeney said.
“It was not subject to consultation before being introduced without notice.
“The lack of consultation with affected stakeholders on this provision is exacerbated by the publication of the statutory review two days after the amending legislation was introduced.
“The Law Society is concerned that proposed s 5.20B has been
inserted into this Bill, rather than via direct amendment to the ALRA itself, to avoid scrutiny of a measure which would undermine the purpose and operation of the ALRA.
“The Law Society calls on the NSW Government to withdraw the provision and refer the remainder of the amending legislation to a parliamentary inquiry,” Mr MacSweeney said.
The Chairperson of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Dr Raymond Kelly, described the bill as an “attack in stealth to erode land rights in NSW”.
“For more than 40 years, Aboriginal land rights has been a driving force for justice, empowerment and selfdetermination for our communities,”
Dr Kelly said.
“We have secured land, defended Country, built housing, created jobs, and grown an economic base for our people. This benefits everyone in this State.”
Greens MP Sue Higginson labelled the process to date as “highly flawed”.
“This bill has sparked major opposition because people can see exactly what it is, an attempt to make serious changes to Crown lands
law, including changes that impact Aboriginal land claims, through a process designed to avoid proper scrutiny.
“The High Court made it clear that the State cannot defeat an Aboriginal land claim by pointing to a lease on paper where the land was not actually being used when the claim was made.
“This bill is designed to get around that decision by letting the Minister retrospectively change the use of Crown land after the fact, to defeat a claim that was valid when it was lodged.
“This is an injustice in the making and an attempt to avoid the return of Crown lands subject to Aboriginal land claims.”
The proposed amendments will now be the subject of further consultation before the bill is considered again.
A spokesperson for Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper told NOTA, “While a range of stakeholders were engaged as part of the statutory review of the act last year, the NSW Government will take the time to engage with stakeholders including Local Aboriginal Land Councils prior to the Bill being debated in the upper house.”
Have Your Say
The spokesperson said the land claims system has “arguably never properly worked since its introduction” in 1983.
“We have more than 43,000 historical claims, some dating as far back as 1984,” they said.
“We want a system that works for everyone.
“One that can protect vital community assets like well-used sporting fields, fire stations, surf clubs and community centres, but that can at the same time activate unused land for Local Aboriginal Land Councils.
“That’s why we invested $1.5 million in a business case to try and find a way to address the historic backlog in cases.”
Mr Kamper’s spokesperson said the NSW Government stands by the principle that unused Crown Land should be claimable and provided to Local Aboriginal Land Councils.
“The proposed changes we have put forward are there to address edge cases that became claimable due to technical non-compliance, such as an invalid sub-lease.
“These sites are well utilised by the local community.
“They were never intended to be claimable in the spirit of the Act.”
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. Email us media@newsofthearea.com.au
q Nambucca Valley Council has resolved to keep the suburb name surrounding the Valla Urban Growth Area as Valla. Photo: supplied.
Rainbow Pride Walk returns
By Jessica MILLER
RAINBOW Coffs Harbour (RCH) have announced their popular Rainbow Pride Walk event is going ahead this year, with another local organisation stepping in to host them.
Robyn Dever, Director and one of the original co-founders of RCH, spoke with News Of The Area about the updates.
“As an unincorporated community group, we lack the resources to cover all the legal requirements of holding a large outdoor event such as the Rainbow Pride Walk,” she said.
“As it has grown, so too has the need to obtain permits and insurance to allow it to go ahead in a public area.
“We are delighted that Live Theatre Inc. approached us and confirmed they are willing to host the event so the Walk can go ahead.”
In its third year, the Walk is one of the main events on the RCH calendar.
Participants grew from around 90 people in the first year to 120 in the second year and Robyn’s dream for the event is that it will continue to grow in attendee numbers, and awareness and reach.
Describing her motivation for co-founding RCH in 2014 she said: “When we first moved to the area we looked into the LGBTQIA+ scene and what was happening.
“There were a bunch of small groups doing things but there
wasn’t really a central organiser or group bringing everyone together.”
So, she joined forces with three others to get a regional group off the ground.
“In a regional area, visibility really matters.
“RCH is about showing people they’re not alone, building community, and creating a space where everyone feels safe and accepted.
“We started off by having some dinners and then lost some momentum during COVID, and three of the founding members left, but now it’s picking back up again.”
While she is proud of how far things have come, she knows there is still a lot of work ahead to keep a regional LGBTQIA+ community group strong, supported, and visible.
This includes getting the group incorporated so they can host their own events and apply for grant funding.
For Robyn, it’s also about the legacy of acting now to help future generations.
“There are still some staggering mental health stats in regional areas. If we can make that a little easier for the next generation, I want to do that.”
This year they are planning to get the word out to people from across the Coffs, Bellingen and Nambucca regions, and further north.
“We want it to be a big regional event that people are drawn to, akin to our very own Mardi Gras Parade.”
Emma Watson, President of the not-for-profit production company
Councillors defer blueberry decision
By Mick BIRTLES
NAMBUCCA Valley Council has deferred a decision on the proposed amendment to the Nambucca Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2010 relating to intensive plant agriculture.
The proposal would require development consent for intensive plant agriculture such as blueberry production in the RU1 Primary Production and RU2 Rural Landscape zones.
Councillors voted at the 25 March meeting to postpone the matter until May to allow more time for consultation and discussion.
The proposed amendment process began in 2024 as Council sought ways to improve the management of horticultural spray drift, water discharge and buffer zones around intensive plant agriculture properties.
During debate, Councillors reflected on the impact the issue has had on both the community and those involved in the amendment process.
All Councillors agreed residents had been significantly affected by both intensive horticulture practices
and the proposed planning changes.
Their comments followed the recent submission of 57 written accounts from community members describing their lived experiences and the impacts they say they have faced.
Council resolved to bring the matter back to the May meeting.
Before then, Councillors will meet within the next month to discuss their position on buffer zones and a number of exemptions currently included in the draft LEP amendment.
This includes sub clause 2, which is intended to clarify the responsibilities of public authorities.
Council also agreed to make the development of a Rural Land Strategy a top priority in the 2026-2027 budget process.
A consultative committee will also be formed to provide further input into the issue.
Council intends to invite representatives from the NSW Environment Protection Authority, the Natural Resources Access Regulator, the NSW Department of Primary Industries, North East Network, the NSW Farmers Association, Berries Australia and the Nambucca Valley Growers and Producers Association.
Councillors also resolved to lobby the State Government to seek changes to horticulture legislation.
Residents wanting to review the discussion can access an audio recording of last week's meeting through the ‘Live stream and archive’ section on Council’s website.
The meeting agenda, report and minutes are also available through Council’s business papers page.
SMART MARKETING
Live Theatre, attended the first two Walks.
“The first walk, being the inaugural year, you did have that feeling of being part of a change,” she said.
“The second walk was bigger, and we saw so many new faces as it had expanded to attract people from further afield.
“It really is a unique event.”
Ms Watson has only recently finalised her own organisation’s incorporation and understands the amount of work that goes into the administration of community groups and the hosting of large events.
“I am just lucky to be in a position where we can help out.
“Robyn works so hard and does an amazing job of staying true to the purpose of diversity and inclusion,
which is something we should all be doing.”
The event will be held at the Jetty Foreshore on Saturday 27 June from 11am, with the exact location currently being finalised.
A picnic will be held after the walk for those wishing to socialise and enjoy the atmosphere.
People are encouraged to dress up in rainbow colours, or simply wear whatever they feel comfortable in.
“Everyone is welcome to walk with us, including friends, family, allies and the general public,” said Robyn.
Anyone interested in being kept up to date on the Rainbow Pride Walk and other RCH events can join their Facebook group Rainbow Coffs Harbour or email rainbowcoffsharbour@yahoo.com.
Region represented at country mayors meeting
By Mick BIRTLES
NAMBUCCA Valley Council
Mayor Gary Lee and General Manager Bede Spannagle have returned from the NSW Country Mayors Association meeting held in Sydney on 27 and 28 March.
The annual meeting brought together representatives from regional councils across New South Wales to discuss the major challenges facing local government.
Mayor Lee said the event came at an important time, with councils across the state dealing with growing financial pressures.
He said rising costs and a reduction in grant opportunities were placing strain on regional councils.
The pair heard from Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and NSW Auditor-General Bola
Oyetunji during the gathering.
“What was clear from the NSW Country Mayors Association catch up is that all regional Councils are experiencing pressure from rising costs, spiked petrol prices, and cost-shifting from the State Government, while all the time our community’s expectations keep growing,” Mayor Lee said.
“I know businesses and communities in the regions are also feeling the pain from rising costs.”
While in Sydney, Mayor Lee and Mr Spannagle also met with NSW Police Force Commissioner Mal Lanyon.
The meeting included discussion about Council’s plan to relocate the Nambucca Emergency Operations Centre.
Council has resolved to pursue the co-location of the emergency centre with Marine Rescue NSW
on Crown Land at Old Coast Road in Nambucca Heads.
Mayor Lee said the move was being considered because the current Emergency Operations Centre at Kelly Close in Macksville can become isolated during floods.
“This move is because the current Macksville Emergency Operations Centre at Kelly Close in Macksville is regularly cut off from Macksville town and Council’s administration building by the Nambucca River during flooding,” he said.
Mayor Lee also used the meeting to raise concerns about the capacity of the Port Macquarie Emergency Operations Centre.
He said he had urged the Police Commissioner to support a future grant application aimed at expanding the facility.
“I also advocated for the Commissioner to consider supporting a grant application in future to extend the Port Macquarie Emergency Operations Centre," he said.
“Council staff were there twice last year, in March during ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred and again in May during flooding, and I was told the facility is not large enough to accommodate several regional Councils, plus the approximate 16 emergency response agencies.”
Mayor Lee said larger and better-equipped emergency operations centres would become increasingly important as severe weather events become more frequent.
“Given the increased likelihood of more extreme weather events in the future, it is important that our regional Emergency Operations Centre has enough space to accommodate all the various agencies and multiple councils in times of emergency.”
Report shows a ‘runaway train of AI slop’
By Andrew VIVIAN
THE Senate Select Committee on Information Integrity on Climate Change and Energy recently released its report about the causes and effects of climate change disinformation.
The report was welcomed by the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), which warns that lies are already harming communities.
The ACF wants tougher action to stop falsehoods derailing climate progress.
ACF Director of Engagement Jane Gardner, who wrote a submission and appeared before the inquiry, said Australians are grappling
with a “runaway train” of AI slop and malicious lies, designed to delay progress.
“Disinformation has serious real-world impacts,” she said.
“We’re seeing it turn neighbour against neighbour in renewable energy regions, create confusion during emergencies, and erode trust in the information people rely on.”
The Committee was chaired by Greens Senator Peter Whish-Wilson and Nationals Leader Matt Canavan with input from Senators Malcolm Roberts and Ralph Babet.
Senators Canavan, Roberts and Babet released dissenting reports.
ACF’s submission called for a national inquiry into the full impacts of disinformation on communities and
democracy, stronger accountability for social media platforms, truth in political advertising laws, and an investigation into coordinated disinformation networks and their funding.
The report contained 20 recommendations, which included improving support for regional and independent media outlets, social sciences research relating to threats to climate and energy information integrity, and relevant regulators to combat and expose corporate “greenwashing”.
It also recommended greater transparency of election campaign activities, and broadening the Australian Curriculum to strengthen media literacy.
Jonathan Cassell, Greens councillor for the City of Coffs Harbour, agrees that
disinformation about climate change is a regional issue.
"In my experience, regional voters tend to be more conservative," he said.
“They are likely to accept disinformation if it suits their beliefs of how things used to be or should be.
“Unfortunately, climate change is moving faster than people can cope with and so disinformation and denial reinforce each other."
Ms Gardner said social media companies must be held accountable for their role in amplifying false information.
"Social media giants profit from outrage and amplifying falsehoods.
"Self-regulation is failing."
The report can be found on the Senate website, via www.aph.gov.au
Visit newsofthearea.com.au to sign up for a FREE digital subscription to one / all of our newspapers. You will be sent an email when each of the printed editions are available to be read online.
q The type of AI-generated misinformation found on social media. Photo: Andrew Vivian.
q Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee and NSW Police Force Commissioner Mal Lanyon catching up at the NSW Country Mayors Association meeting. Photo: supplied.
Autumn school holidays at Yarrila
VISIT Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) this school holidays and experience
RELICS: A New World Rises, an immersive exhibition combining vintage objects with intricate LEGO® worlds, along with portrait painting by Coffs Coast artist Seabastion Toast.
The program is packed with free and low-cost activities including a special Youth Week tour of RELICS.
YAM is open every day of the school holidays except Good Friday.
Created by LEGO® Masters winners Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, RELICS
invites visitors into a future world where discarded everyday objects have been transformed into intricate LEGO® civilisations, offering wonder for all ages.
Collect your scavenger hunt then start exploring! RELICS is a special ticketed exhibition – book online or on arrival.
For a free creative holiday activity, pick up a children’s trail to learn about the history
of the Coffs Coast as you explore the interactive social history exhibition Yaamanga (around here).
Visit the RELICS Play Space and build your own creation, or test your skills in drop-in RELICS family challenges.
YAM also has low-cost art making workshops including a STEAM Challenge, expressive painting with artist Kelly Joy, and RELICS inspired tote bag printing. Visit the website for more details and bookings.
Visit Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) this school holidays and experience RELICS: The Exhibition, then extend your visit with free drop-in activities and challenges, or book a low-cost artmaking or STEAM workshop.
Created by LEGO Masters winners, Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, RELICS is an immersive exhibition that imagines a future world where humans have abandoned planet Earth after exhausting its natural resources and a series of discarded vintage objects are blossoming with LEGO brick civilisations built by minifigures ® ®
RELICS is a ticketed exhibition - book online or purchase on arrival
Visit the RELICS Play Space to design, build and display your own creation - open during gallery hours and is free for all visitors.
For more information about RELICS, to book tickets, or to see our full school holiday program visit our website.
q RELICS is an immersive exhibition combining vintage objects with intricate LEGO® worlds. Photos: Auckland Museum.
New support network for men
By Mick BIRTLES
MEN in the Nambucca Valley will soon have the opportunity to connect, talk openly and support each other through an initiative known as The Men’s Table, with an introductory “Entree” event planned for Nambucca Heads.
The Men’s Table is a growing Australian community movement designed to provide a safe, confidential space where men can share their experiences and feel heard.
“The Men’s Table is a place for men to share and be heard in a nonjudgemental environment, creating a greater sense of belonging, camaraderie and connection,” Alistair Stratton, The Men’s Table Western NSW Regional Host, told News Of The Area.
“Many men’s friendships revolve around surface conversations such as the old ‘footy and sh*t’ type of talk, but men are often looking for something deeper than that.”
The first step for men interested in joining a Men’s Table is to attend an Entree event, which introduces the concept and allows participants to see if it is something they would like to be involved in.
“The Entree gives men a good
feel for how a Table works and you will meet other interested men and decide if it’s right for you.
“There’s no obligation to join and no ongoing fees to be part of a Table,” Mr Stratton added.
The Men’s Table began in 2018, when a group of men, invited by Ben Hughes and David Pointon, decided to meet over dinner with the simple intention of creating a place where they could talk honestly about the highs and lows of their lives.
They have been meeting once a month ever since.
The initiative has since grown across Australia, supported by a central office known as “The Kitchen”, which assists local Tables while allowing each group to develop its own personality.
Men join The Men’s Table for many different reasons; some are navigating loss, financial pressures, family challenges or life transitions, while others simply want to be part of a supportive community.
“Navigating life can be tough if you do it alone,” Mr Stratton said.
“Some men come for support, some come to offer support, and some just want to know the community is there if they need it.
“Over time conversations have built strong friendships based on
trust, respect and acceptance.”
A key part of the Men’s Table philosophy is the idea that vulnerability is not weakness, but an important part of building strong relationships and healthy communities.
Mr Stratton concedes that many men grew up believing vulnerability was something to hide, but research shows that being open and honest with each other can lead to stronger relationships, better mental health
q Already established in other locations on the Mid North Coast, the Men’s Table will be holding an Entree in Nambucca Heads on Monday 13 April. Pictured is a recent Men’s Table dinner in Dubbo.
and deeper personal growth.
He acknowledges that attending an Entree event can feel daunting for some men.
“The first step can be nervewracking and it takes courage,” he said.
“But you’re not alone if you feel that hesitation. That’s exactly why the Table exists, to create a place where men can connect and support one another.”
The upcoming Men’s Table
Entree in Nambucca
to gauge local interest and potentially establish a regular Table in the community.
If established, the group would meet monthly over dinner, providing a consistent and supportive environment for local men.
The Mens Table Entree in Nambucca Heads is scheduled for Monday 13 April.
To find out more email hello@ themenstable.org.
Celebrating Stuarts Point’s junior athletes
By Jen HETHERINGTON
with a presentation night at the Scotts Head beach reserve on Friday, 27 March.
Coordinator Samantha Bonanno told NOTA, “For such a little club, we have achieved a great deal this season.
“Twenty-one athletes represented [the club] at Zone championships at Wauchope in November, 13 athletes progressed through to represent at Regional Championships in the Gold Coast in January, with three qualifying for State.
“A phenomenal result.”
The presentation night featured an awards ceremony, a BBQ and games of soccer in the park.
“A big congratulations to all our athletes who received a medal,” Sam said.
Raven Johnson and Jonathon Bonanno were announced as the two overall trophy winners, calculated through attendance data and individual personal bests through the season.
Record breaking performances were also recognised.
“We had three club records broken from 20 years ago this season: Lilly Darlington (200m 12 Girls), Myron Unterrheiner (400m 11Boys) and Remy Cartwright (80m hurdles 12 Boys).”
Sam thanked all those who contributed to making the season a success.
“I would like to thank George and Michael of the Scotts Head Oval Committee for the continuous
‘Vehement’ opposition to housing proposal
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE proposed gifting of Lot 1 Ferry Street, Urunga to the Waterfall Way Community Land Trust, ("Community invited to have a say on Urunga's affordable housing proposal," 27/3), if approved, would enable one of the most ill-conceived and destructive housing developments ever undertaken in Bellingen Shire.
No mention was made in your article of the vehement opposition to this proposal by local residents, ratepayers, and many others in Urunga.
The community feedback survey will ensure a big vote in favour of this project, as it is a
Shire-wide survey, meaning that the community affected - the Urunga community - will be swamped by voters who know nothing of the multiple negative impacts of the scheme, and will vote for the popular cause of affordable housing.
The site-scenarios proposed by WWCLT would crowd six families into a multiple-occupancy communal grouping of prefabricated cabin-style dwellings, with outside car-parking, hardup against the railway line, and susceptible to dangerous flooding in heavy rain.
Lot 1 is a landmark site on one of Urunga's main entrances, boasting dozens of healthy trees including a group of magnificent, towering 80
year-old blackbutts, which together form a little park-like eco-system of naturalised local plants and animals, easily accessible from the footpath and unique in Urunga.
Despite denials from the developers, all the big trees and most of the others will have to go, with the consequent loss of the many environmental, social, and visual values this irreplaceable little asset provides for Urunga, now and into the future.
Bellingen Council is also well aware of the development of a 14room boarding house immediately next door to Lot 1, and that the two developments combined would mean an influx of multiple dozens of people into a currently quiet
area of settled family homes and narrow street and laneways, never designed for such a high density of population.
All the resulting human congestion would be funnelled into Ferry Street, a short already-busy street constrained by a dangerous hump and blind corners at each end.
No other proposals to address affordable housing in Bellingen other than the Land Trust option appear to have been investigated by Bellingen Council, and we see this as a blatant lack of ethical due-process.
The imposition of this experimental, untried housing project on a community who passionately rejects it, is a heavyhanded, dictatorial act by Bellingen
support through the season, with line marking and mowing of the oval so our athletes had a good space to perform,” she said.
“We have had a fantastic season and our Friday nights are all about having fun, keeping fit and improving our athletes’ individual skill.
“Kids seem to always be enjoying themselves and push themselves to beat their own personal bests consistently.
“Thank you to the helpers every week who manage the age groups and keep the nights going.
“Also, a thank you to parents who assist with setting up and packing up on these nights, it is a great help.”
The next season will begin around August/September 2026.
Keep an eye on the club’s Facebook page or website for details.
The Association accepts athletes from Tiny Tots (three years plus) up to U20s.
councillors.
We are asking Council to pause proceedings until a proper and comprehensive overview of all the various options available to Council for alleviating housing stress is obtained, ones that do not cause such division and destruction.
of Ferry Street group.
Heads aims
THE Stuarts Point and District Little Athletics summer season concluded
q Lilly Darlington and Myron Unterrheiner.
q Raven Johnson and Jonathon Bonanno.
Sharks do battle with the Roosters
By Mick BIRTLES
THE Nambucca Roosters RLFC hosted four pre-season trial games against the Port Macquarie Sharks at Coronation Park, Nambucca Heads on Sunday, 29 March.
The Group 3 visitors travelled north with winning on their minds and the respectable crowd was treated to some top-notch football.
In the Under 18s match-up both teams showed that they were going to be contenders in their respective groups this year.
The game was played without spite and with an impressive level of on-field maturity for such young squads.
The home team took out the win, defeating the Sharks 34-12.
In the Women’s tackle game, last year's Group 2 premiers the Roosters demonstrated they still have a winning attitude and showed real form, particularly in attack, despite the visitors working hard to shut down the home side's runners.
The Roosters were victorious in an impressive 16-4 win.
In a hard-fought game of rugby league, the Sharks reserve grade side proved too strong right across the paddock against a new-look Roosters team, taking out a 38-4 win.
In the first grade clash a classy Port Macquarie side dominated
for most of the game however the Roosters showed real promise for the season in both their attack and defensive play.
The Sharks went home with a 30-4 win.
A highlight of the afternoon was the appearance of new Roosters signing Craig Garvey, formerly of the Dragons and the Bulldogs in the NRL.
Although he was unable to run on for the trial match on Sunday, Garvey injected his experience from the professional level of the game when speaking with players and coaching staff.
“I have been watching what the Nambucca Roosters have been
Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club
By Chris KNIGHT
GUN golfers from far and wide swooped on The Nambucca Heads Island course for the Mid North Coast Men's Championships - with big coin and titles up for grabs.
The 18-hole premier layout with its fabled bent grass greens is not long by the lineal metre and seems ripe for the picking, even though there's water in play on all bar one of the holes.
The field on Sunday included a number of plus-markers (collective noun for same group may be a 'seriousness' or an 'annoyance'). Despite the talent credentials, no
one broke the par of 69.
Scratch marker James Benson from South West Rocks did the best with a three over 72 to win Div 1 gross from clubmate Brandon Connor (+3 handicap) on 75.
Kempsey's Dempsey Donovan (5) took the nett with 70 ahead of Urunga's Dave McBarron (2) on 74.
Dane Callaghan (7) from K-Town swept the Div 2 gross with 75, five clear of local Kenny Klem (9).
Fredericton's Campbell Hoskins (9) nailed the nett with 69 ahead of Nambucca's Darrell Flanders (8) on 72.
Local Daniel Wassens (12) had 80 off the bat to collect the Div 3
q Playing as a group of two, these hard working Nambucca club volunteers Henny Oldenhove and Sue Brooks bulldozed their way through the field so staunchly on Saturday they should be nicknamed the D9s.
Nambucca Bowls Report
By Charlie POTTER
GOOD luck to Graham Hines who goes down to Mt Lewis in the NSW Champion of Champions. His 1st round draw is against Steve Pilcher (Condong) on Tue. March 31 at 9.45am. Also Kim Porter is at Merrylands for the Women's Champion of Champions, to play Susan Goode (Cabarita), same day same time.
Wed Mar 25: 24 bowlers signed in and the winners were The Welder
Coughlan, Headbutt Hines and Neil Davies, Second place to Ray Platt, Tony Stokes and Buzz Ruane and third to Jai MacAuliffe, Pipi Bevan and Tas Fribbins. Peter Lott, Roger McGuigan and Alan Cosgrave were the Lucky Losers. The Welder was Lucky Bowler but failed his jackpot attempt.
Fri. Mar 27: A good field of 66 turned out for Laverty's Day (doubleprizes). Michael Thomas, Todd Ryan and a very quiet Red Dog Ward were winners along
gross. Runner-up was clubmate Drew Glasson (11) on 83 who went all but a hole-in-one on the 15th. Kai Baker (16) collected the nett prize with 69, three better than Sawtell's Roger Chaffey (16).
Once was Nambucca now Urunga member Joe Street (18) won the Div 4 gross with 84, five ahead of Patrick Handsaker (18). Fredo's Damien Lane (22) had the best nett of the day in any grade with a 64 ahead of John Gysberts (21) on 69.
In Div 5, honours went to Wayne Bushnell (23) with 93 off the stick, six clear of Andrew Cuthbertson (24). Nambucca club captain Ray Guiana (26) took the nett with 67 from Houston Baker (25) on 80.
Paul McElhinney (27) - try pronouncing that Welsh surname with a mouthful of marblesstunned with plus 7 in the Pizza This Pizza That medley par on Saturday which was also the second chance to qualify in the Chris Knightsponsored Nambucca Skins.
His round included pars on five of the six par threes as he romped to victory in Div 2, four clear of Gysberts.
Michael Jolly (5) carded a stellar plus 4 and three birds around the front to win Div 1 from runner-up Daniel Wassens (13) on plus 3.
Andy Mackinnon zoomed the Ecomist longest putt on the 1st
with Joe Frank and Cozzie, Second places to Adam Laird, Demon Davies and Andrew Shearer and John McCollom, G Squires and Mayhem Meehan. Harry the Rock, Peter Hill and Mino Bettanin were third with Buzz Ruane, Dale Nancarrow and Col Crawford. The two Lucky Losers teams were Bob Sutton, Angry Lawrence, Paddy Byrne and Dale Scrivener, The Welder and Hagop Aladjadjian. John McCollom was the Lucky Bowler but the Jackpot of $240 was not threatened.
Sat. Mar 28: Pennants Round 9.
Grade 3, having won their section already, kept their unbeaten record
Ladies Pennants and Social Bowls
By Teresa MEEHAN
NAMBUCCA Heads ladies bowlers enjoyed a solid week of competition and camaraderie, with both pennants and social bowls played in good spirit. In the pennant competition, Grade 2 had the bye, while Grade 4 hosted Urunga for their match. The day was unfortunately interrupted when one of Urunga’s skips, Judy, became unwell during play. A substitute was found to allow the game to continue, and all players extend their best wishes to Judy for a speedy recovery.
On the green, results were mixed across the two rinks, with one closely contested match and the other more one-sided. Nambucca Heads performed strongly overall, securing the big board win 36–32 in a pleasing team result.
Earlier in the week, Tuesday’s social bowls saw a smaller field of 12 players take to the greens in cooler conditions. Two triples matches were played, with Teresa, Deb and Marg finishing as the lucky winners. On the same rink, Joan, Rosie and Elaine were named lucky losers, while Colleen
q Nambucca’s Daniel Donavan was devastating in defence during Sunday’s trial against the Port Macquarie Sharks.
doing over the past couple of years and it has been impressive,” Garvey told News Of The Area.
and the pins went to McElhinney on 5, Chris Knight on 7 and 13 (the latter for the gourmet frisbee), Stephen Kimber on 8, Jolly on 15 and Maitland's Gregory Eyb on 18.
Nambucca Club champion Graham Watson (8) has seen his handicap drift out to the comfort zone so a hot score was more when than if and he duly delivered with 45 points to win the Toyota Genuine Service Dolphin Day medley stableford on Thursday 26 March.
The retired licensing sergeant had a one under par 68 off the stick including birds on 1, 4 and 12 and will look resplendent in an embroidered golf shirt which accompanies the victory.
Hunter Valley's Ken Harris (12) carded 38 points to take Div 1 on countback ahead of Peter Miller (16).
Phiip Woodgate (21) had a rocky start but stemmed the bleed, with four pars and nothing worse than a bogey in the run home to post 41 points and 85 gross to salute in Div 2.
Ken Marriott (19) also had a good day at the office, posting 39 points to be runner-up.
Darrell Flanders dunked the putt from afar on 1, and flag magnets were Bryce McCarroll on 5 and 8, Tristram Edwards on 7 and Stephen Kimber on 15. Marriotts of Fire can look forward to one of Steve Ward's Michelin-star pizzas after
intact in their last round, defeating Kempsey Heights at Kempsey RSL 63-53 (9-1).
Grade 5 lost to Park Beach away 50-60 (½-9½) and need a clean sweep against leaders Stuarts Pt this weekend to clinch the section.
Grade 6 Red defeated North Beach at home 63-46 (9-1) which wins their section with a round to play.
Grade 6 Blue were at Port City but lost 57-63 (2-8) and lead by ½ point but having a no-points bye this weekend means Kempsey RSL needs to win just one rink in the final round to take the section.
claimed the lucky bowler prize. Raffle winners for the day were Marg and Rosie.
Nominations also opened this week for the Restricted Singles event. Newer bowlers are especially encouraged to enter, with the competition providing a great opportunity to gain experience and confidence in a supportive environment.
Another enjoyable week of bowls highlights the strong participation and community spirit within the club.
“There
slotting it close on 13 and Stephen Doherty surely covered his bets after pocketing the $70 Pro Pin on the last.
Lisa Urqhart and Maxine Townsend combined better than Vegemite and cheese to scream with 46 points for a big W in the women's fourball on Wednesday 25 March.
Runners-up were Fiona Chaffey and Debbie Grenenger (surely a high scoring surname in Scrabble when you think you don't have much to work with) on 43.
Pins on 5 went to Kerrie Eichorn and Chaffey, Townsend on 13 and Ann Antcliff banked $35 for the Pro Pin on the last.
Steve Doherty may have hung up his brushes but the crafty retired paint boss still knows when one coat will do as he posted 34 points for the win in the Pizza This Pizza That stableford on Tuesday 24 March.
After wiping the first three, Doh sizzled home with a bird on 5 and five pars round the back.
Pins went to Colin Habgood on 5, Andy Mackinnon on 7 and 15, and Jeremy Wilson on 8. Graeme Bassam diced and boxed the moreish flatbread on 13 and Stuart Johnston had $23 more to his name thanks to the Pro Pin on 18.
Catchya on The Island where the egg or ball hunt will be on for keeps at the Easter Bowl - a 36-hole tournament at the championship course this weekend. Big cash prizes and silverware are on offer.
Grade 7 defeated Urunga 73-46 (10-0) and remain third but out of contention.
Sun Mar 29: Social Bowls attracted 20 players again and the winners were Stu and Jen Thorne. Lucky Losers - Michelle Fredericks and Deb Mann. No name for the Lucky Bowler but the Jackpot was not won.
There is still time to enter for the Easter Shootout. 3 x 12 ends games of 2 bowl Triples with the top four to shoot out over 3 ends semis and final, to decide 1st to 4th. $1800 prizemoney and lunch included for $30 a player.
DEAR BUSINESS
is a winning culture up here in this club and I really want to be a part of it.”
By Manny WOOD
Carrot patch chaos
FOLLOWING an honourable career as the Easter Bunny, Sir Eggward Cottontail decided it was time to hang up his tail and retire to the quaint town of Cadbury Cove.
Eggward purchased a lovely cottage in Carrot Meadows Estate.
An easement over a garden on his neighbour, Mrs Henrietta Hopsworth’s property, grants Eggward the right to use half the garden for “garden use”. Mrs Hopsworth, a notoriously particular resident, is well known for her award-winning heirloom carrots.
Eggward, eager to make friends, decided to host a housewarming on Easter Sunday, inviting the residents of Cadbury Cove. He planned an elaborate garden party along with an easter egg hunt, carrot canapés and a game of pin the tail on the bunny.
Mrs Hopsworth took grave exception to the festivities and refused to attend.
Upon seeing a flurry of residents in “outrageous” costumes trampling through her prized carrot patch in pursuit of chocolate eggs, Mrs Hopsworth donned her carrot hat and furiously made her way to Eggward’s, proclaiming the easement over the garden permitted “garden use” only, not a full-scale invasion of her carrot patch and demanded the festivities cease.
Eggward argued that an easter egg hunt constituted “garden use” as it involved the placement and retrieval of items from the garden, although conceded he should not have placed eggs on her side.
The dispute escalated and Mrs Hopsworth commenced proceedings in the Supreme Court seeking an order that the easement be ruled invalid because it interfered with her owner’s rights.
Judge Hatchington held that the easement was valid and while the s88B instrument permitted “garden use” allowing the dominant tenement the right to use half the garden for “gardening”, it did not extend to “general recreational use” and certainly didn’t include large unruly gatherings.
His Honour also observed that Eggward’s party was excessive and unreasonably interfered with Mrs Hopsworth’s
OPINION & LETTERS
On the Couch
By Paul DORIN
Verse of the week
By JASMINDA
DEAR Jasminda,
How do we cope when there is so much chaos in the world? It feels as though every new day brings a worse news story than the day before.
Georgia D.
By Lynne MILES
John 3: 16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have eternal life." (Where will you spend eternity?)
Stargazing: What if we had no Moon?
Stargazing
By Dave RENEKE
IMAGINE a world where the Moon never showed up for its nightly shift.
No silver spotlight draped across oceans, no quiet companion hanging above late-night thinkers.
Just a blazing Sun clocking out each evening and leaving us with… a blackout.
Romantic? Not exactly. Mysterious? Maybe - but mostly inconvenient.
Let’s start at the beach.
Without the Moon’s gravitational pull, tides would shrink into polite little ripples, like the ocean forgot how to be dramatic.
Gone are the surging waves that crash with flair; instead, we’d get something closer to a lazy shoreline shrug.
Sure, the Sun would still tug at the oceans, but it’s like comparing a symphony to someone tapping a spoon on a mug. Predictable, mild, and a bit dull.
“Oh look, it’s high tide again… how thrilling.”
And then there’s the night skyor what’s left of it.
Without the Moon’s glow, stargazing might actually improve (hello, galaxies!), but stepping outside would feel like walking into a pitch-black room and hoping for the best.
Midnight strolls would turn into obstacle courses.
Romance would take a hit too. It’s hard to whisper sweet nothings
when you’re busy tripping over your own feet.
Culturally, we’d be in trouble.
No “moonlight” anything.
No iconic songs crooning about lunar longing.
Replace “Fly Me to the Moon” with “Fly Me Toward That General Direction of Space” and suddenly it’s not quite the same vibe.
Poets would scramble for metaphors.
“Your eyes shine like… distant traffic lights?” Not great.
The real chaos, though, comes from Earth itself.
The Moon doesn’t just sit there looking pretty - it stabilizes our planet’s tilt.
Without it, Earth could wobble like a spinning top running out of patience.
That means seasons going rogue.
Imagine one year of scorching heat followed by decades of deep freeze. Weather forecasts would become wild guesses.
Many animals rely on moonlight for navigation, hunting, and
Dear Georgia,
There is no point denying that the world feels as though it is in a massive state of flux at the moment.
It is hard to navigate each day when news stories alert us to escalating conflicts, rising fuel prices, and confoundedly, in the midst of it all, reports of a stoush between Kyle and Jacquie O (which is somehow up there as a headline with the war (I mean... excursion?!?) in Iran.
Georgia, you are not alone in the way you are feeling.
Many people are rubbing their collective heads so much that toupee sales are rising at the same rate as fuel.
The positive (yes, let's look for
reproduction.
Sea turtles, for example, use the glow of the horizon - often influenced by the Moon - to find their way.
Without it, their journeys could become confused and chaotic.
Predators and prey alike would have to rewrite their survival playbooks in a darker, less predictable world.
And then there’s the folklore we’d lose.
No werewolves dramatically howling at the full Moon - just regular wolves, howling at… vibes, I guess.
No “man in the Moon” to spark imagination. Bedtime stories would feel emptier, stripped of that glowing, watchful presence.
The sky would be vast, yes - but also strangely blank, like a story
a positive) is that times of immense chaos and uncertainty are often a precursor to a new state of being.
After flux comes renewal (or so the theory goes).
There will be a time when the events of today will form part of history, and that is when we can analyse what went wrong (and how) so future leaders can learn from the mistakes of current ones.
In the meantime, be as kind as you can to yourself and others.
Sometimes one gentle, understanding act can have a ripple effect.
Maybe it's as simple as saying hello to a stranger at a bus stop, or carrying a person's groceries to their car, or throwing a ball to your dog, or making your partner a cup of tea.
Don't underestimate the value of small steps, Georgia.
The world is full of decent people and sometimes it can be hard to see that when some current decision-makers seem hell-bent on destroying what we could have (namely a peaceful and sustainable world).
I'm not trying to get all John Lennon on you (imagine!) but at some point, for the sake of future generations, there will need to be a reckoning for those who get richer and more powerful by peddling the politics of division and hatred. This earth only has so much to give.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
missing its main character.
Even human behaviour might shift.
While the science is debated, there’s long been a belief that full moons stir something in usrestlessness, energy, maybe a dash of mischief.
See that rhythmic brightening of the night, our connection to natural cycles could feel a little less magical, a little more mechanical.
In the end, a moonless world wouldn’t just be darker - it would be quieter, flatter, less poetic.
The Moon doesn’t just light our nights; it shapes our planet, our stories, and our sense of wonder.
Take it away, and we’re left with a sky that works… but doesn’t quite sing.
Dave’s website: www. davidreneke.com.
SUDOKU
Over! - I Can Jump Puddles.
Kids Boot Camp 072
NEWS OF THE AREA
2nd
For Sale
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Camper Trailer
2020 Jayco Lark Bushpack camper trailer Sleeps 6, March 26 rego TR78ZR. Excellent condition added extras electric jockey, solar blankets, tinted windows etc. $21,000. Coffs Harbour 0422 422 866 Re240426
Caravan
2012 Billabong Caravan 16ft, single axle, full annex, toilet/shower, air cond, QB, lots of storage $32,000. Rego X91945 0431 736 481
VICTOR special and utility, 2 each also Sheerline and many other mower parts. $150 6558 9242 ALLRe310826
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Bonnie is a happy, friendly young Mastiff Cross with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging. She is food orientated, which makes training fun and easy. She already knows her basic commands. Her bright, eager to please nature means she’s ready to continue learning with her new family. Adoption fee for 2025/2026 is $230 and this includes microchipping, vaccination, desexing and Lifetime registration. 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
GARDENING AUSTRALIA
ABC TV, 7.30pm Autumn is synonymous with fallen foliage at the end of its life cycle, but leave it to optimistic Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis to find a fresh perspective to the season. In this episode, he focuses on fiery shrubs that can bring vibrant colour to any garden – without the epic clean-up. Meanwhile, Millie Ross focuses on seasonal produce, spending time with a Victorian family who operate a heritage quince orchard to learn more about the ancient, aromatic fruit. Plus, Sophie Thomson sets up wicking beds for vegie success.
FRIDAY, April 3
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC National News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Patience. (Mv) A music student is found dead. 9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) 9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Ms, R)
10.20 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)
12.20 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)
12.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 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 My Adventures With Superman. 8.45 BattleBots. 9.35 Gladiators UK. 10.30 Late Programs.
MONDAY
MASTERMIND AUSTRALIA
SBS, 6pm
Despite best efforts from rival networks, the hottest seat on Australian TV remains black chair. The only thing that could make facing host Marc Fennell’s (pictured) intense questioning more difficult is a touch of sibling rivalry – enter Family Week. The hardest quiz show on the box returns for its eighth season with a quartet of families eager to test not just their own knowledge, but their bonds. The Coutinho clan kicks things off in Monday’s premiere, when West Coast Eagles tragic Josh, Good Luck Charlie fan Aerin, Thirsty Merc enthusiast Tiarne and their vintage Chrysler Valiant-loving dad Kemal go head to head in their chosen categories and a gruelling general knowledge round.
Road To Referendum History Bites. 2.05 Tommy Fleming Live From Galway Cathedral. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Building The Vatican. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Secrets Of The Conclave.
9.40 Lost Secrets Of Jesus.
10.40 Haigh’s Chocolates: From Bean To Bar. (R)
11.10 Sisi. (Mav)
12.15 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+av, R)
2.05 Nordland 99. (Mals, R)
3.05 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (R)
4.00 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WEDNESDAY
TONIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 MOVIE: My Best Friend’s Wedding. (1997, Ml, R) After a woman’s friend announces his engagement, she realises she loves him and sets out to prevent the wedding. Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz.
10.15 MOVIE: The Bounty Hunter. (2010, Mlsv, R) A bounty hunter is assigned to find his ex-wife. Gerard Butler.
12.35 GetOn Extra.
1.05 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
host Alex Lee invites Becky Lucas, Takashi Wakasugi, Bron Lewis and Dilruk Jayasinha (all pictured) to unleash their creativity and showcase their knowledge of Australian history, animal facts, priceless artworks and prehistoric creatures. Perhaps most impressive: even though TMAG holds the world’s most significant collection of Tasmanian tiger specimens, it took episodes for a thylacine to become the topic of discussion. The winner will place a personal treasure on display – will visitors be treated to Lucas’s broken phone, Wakasugi’s dog statue, Lewis’s lock of hair or Jayasinha’s first plane ticket to Australia?
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 5. Penrith Panthers v Melbourne Storm.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: The Foreigner. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A restaurateur seeks justice. Jackie Chan.
1.00 Explore TV: Antarctica. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa, R)
7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Andrew Winter helps James and Brendan. 8.40 Location, Location, Location Australia. (R) Follows property experts Mitch Edwards and Mark McKie as they search for the perfect home for two sets of buyers.
9.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Guests include Bruce Springsteen. 10.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
11.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
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9GO! (83) 6am Without A Clue. Continued. (1988, PG) 6.40 Discovering Film. 7.30 Monty Python And The Holy Grail. (1975, PG) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.00 Flee. (2021, M, Danish) 11.40 Bad Eggs. (2003, M) 1.25pm Porco Rosso. (1992, PG) 3.05 The Boy And The Heron. (2023, PG) 5.20 Howl’s Moving Castle. (2004, PG) 7.30 What’s Love Got To Do With It? (2022) 9.35 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 11.55 Late Programs.
Bowraville Golf Club was buzzing on Saturday as players paired up for a lively round of 4BBB, where teamwork makes the dream work… or at least
makes up for the occasional wayward shot!
Taking out top honours on the day were the dynamic duo of Robyn McDonald and Veronica Lamb, who clearly had their games—and possibly their teamwork negotiations—well and truly in sync. Whether it was
precision, luck, or just knowing when to let the partner take over, the pair proved unbeatable.
Hot on their heels were Pam and Phillip Cotten, claiming the runner-up spot with a solid performance. Rumour has it there may have been some friendly household rivalry at play, but whatever the strategy, it paid off nicely. Veronica Lamb wasn’t content
with just a win, also claiming Longest Putt of the Day, proving that when she lines one up, it stays hit!
Nearest the pins went to Eliza McNally and Wendy Welsh, both demonstrating pinpoint accuracy and giving the rest of the field something to aim for—quite literally. All in all, it was a fantastic day on the course, filled with
good shots, great company, and just enough competitive spirit to keep everyone honest. As always, plenty of laughs were shared and a few “almost” shots were passionately discussed. We look forward to doing it all again next week—same time, same place, and hopefully just as many memorable moments!
SATURDAY, April 4
receives a mysterious phone call from his fatally-wounded former boss.
9.45 Frauds. (Mlv, R) Trouble from home catches up with Bilal. 10.30 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Chopped Junior. 9.35 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Abbott Elementary. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Edward Vs George: The Windsors At War. (Premiere)
8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (PGa, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 Bamay. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SUNDAY, April 5
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (PG)
8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms) Neha and Debbie team up.
8.50 Frauds. (Mal) An unforeseen disaster derails the gang’s plans.
9.40 Blue Murder Motel. (Ml, R) Vinny and Cole investigate a fun-run attack.
10.25 Top End Bub. (PGs, R)
10.50 MOVIE: Ten Canoes. (2006, M, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.45 Unforgotten. (Mal, R)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.55 Dream Gardens. (R)
5.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm MOVIE: Tummy Tom 2: A New Friend For Tummy Tom. (2024) 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Foxes: Their Secret World. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
SBS
6am The
Boy And The Heron. Continued. (2023, PG) 8.10
Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 10.15 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 12.40pm What We Do In The Shadows. (2014, M) 2.15 Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. (1984, PG) 4.25 Castle In The Sky. (1986, PG) 6.50 The Secret World Of Arrietty. (2010) 8.30 John Wick. (2014) 10.25 Sanctuary. (2022) 12.15am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Snow White And The Huntsman. (2012, Mhv, R) A sorceress orders for her former husband’s daughter to be killed after learning she will be defeated by her. Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron.
10.45 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998, Mlv, R) An autistic boy cracks a government code. Bruce Willis. 1.00 Devils. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Wonka. (2023, PGav)
10.50 MOVIE: The Legend Of Tarzan. (2016, Mav, R)
12.50 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGam, R)
1.50 My Way.
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.15 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Epic Builds. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House. (R) A couple dream of different dogs. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Andrew Winter tempts an Aussie larrikin to move. Neale Whitaker tries to convince Michelle to give up on her dream. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) Follows dispatchers and paramedics. 12.30 Elsbeth. (Mlv, R) 1.00 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Unwrapping King Tut: Secrets Of The Mummy.
8.25 Akhenaten, The Secrets Of The Forgotten Pharaoh. (R)
9.25 Leonardo Da Vinci. (PGadn, R)
10.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa, R)
11.20 Bronze Age Apocalypse. (R)
12.55 Me And My Tourette’s. (Mals, R)
2.00 Matched. (PG, R)
2.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.55 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
VICELAND (31)
6am Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. Continued. (1984, PG) 8.00 Howl’s Moving Castle. (2004, PG) 10.15 What’s Love Got To Do With It? (2022) 12.20pm Princess Mononoke. (1997, M, Japanese) 2.50 Mosley. (2019, PG) 4.35 My Neighbour Totoro. (1988, PG) 6.15 Spirited Away. (2001, PG) 8.30 The Miracle Club. (2023) 10.10 Io Capitano. (2023, MA15+, French) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Hosted by Lee Mack. 8.00 Working Class Man. (Madl, R) Looks at rocker Jimmy Barnes’s hit book Working Class Man and the next chapter in his life.
10.30 INXS: Live At Wembley. (Ml, R) A look at INXS performing at Wembley.
12.30 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
(64) 7MATE (64)
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 MOVIE: Blueback. (2022, PG) 10.00 Ice Hockey. NHL. New York Islanders v Philadelphia Flyers. 12.40pm Soccer. English Premier League. Newcastle v Sunderland. 2.40 Innovation Nation. 2.50 MOVIE: Mr Mom. (1983, PG) 4.40 MOVIE: Superman. (1978, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald. (2018, M) 10.10 Late Programs.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 8.00 MOVIE: Hot Potato: The Story Of The Wiggles. (2023, PGaa) The true story of The Wiggles. Jeff Fatt, Murray Cook. 10.15 9News Late. 10.45 The First 48: Escape Plan/ Path Of Terror. (MA15+av, R) 11.40 A Killer Makes A Call: Jackson. (Mav, R)
Oz Off Road TV. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
The Garden Gurus. (R)
Today Early News.
6am Morning Programs. 9.35 Seinfeld. 10.05 One Tank Holiday. 10.35 Surfest: 40 Years. 11.05 Limitless. 12.05pm Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Alabama Grand Prix. H’lights. 1.15 Soccer. English Premier League. Brighton v Liverpool. 3.15 Australian Ninja Warrior. 5.00 MOVIE: Tom & Jerry. (2021) 7.00 MOVIE: Charlie And The Chocolate Factory. (2005, PG) 9.20 MOVIE: Wonka. (2023, PG) 11.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 My Road To Adventure.
Tuesday 24th March 2025 1st Carol McKee & Amber Fox 58%, 2nd Alison Savage & Colin Denney 56%, 3rd Greg & Jane Wood 54%
/South
Jane Wood & Kevin Madgwick 54%, 2nd Sheila Bargon & Barb Maranik 53.8%, 3rd Carol McKee & Pieter Berkhof 53.2%
/West
1st Collin Tolley & Pauly Griffin 65%, 2nd Carol McKee &Amber Fox 59%, 3rd Maureen Cowan & Janet Dyson 53%
21st March 2025 1st Maureen Cowan & Barb Maranik 66%, 2nd Gary & Louise Walton 58%, 3rd Neil & Ali Tupper 54
6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) A night of rewards proves too much for some to handle. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Final, Mav) With a Stinger missile and murderer in the wind, the team races to prevent a deadly attack. 9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav) The hunt for a murder suspect uncovers a crime with shocking implications. Bruno protects his squad during a raid. 10.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) The
9GO! (83)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)
The Tower Of London. (PG) 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)
Never Mind The Buzzcocks.
SBS World News Late. 10.40 Herrhausen: The Banker And The Bomb. (Premiere, Ml)
11.35 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)
2.25 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.30 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 4.15pm Play School Dance It Out. 4.20 Fizzy And Suds. 4.40 Bluey. 5.00 Bluey’s Big Play. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Kangaroo Beach. 6.55 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.35 Gladiators UK. 9.35 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.20 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.
TUESDAY,
6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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. 9.30 BattleBots. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am My Neighbour Totoro. Continued. (1988, PG) 6.35 The Secret World Of Arrietty. (2010) 8.20 Spirited Away. (2001, PG) 10.35 Animalia. (2023, M, French) 12.20pm Discovering Film. 1.10 Castle In The Sky. (1986, PG) 3.30 Ponyo. (2008) 5.30 Kiki’s Delivery Service. (1989, PG) 7.30 Undercover. (2021, M, French) 9.50 Barbarella. (1968, M) 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (R)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 Rock Legends. (PGl)
10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Exit. (MA15+adlns)
11.55 Elvira. (Malv, R)
3.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.05 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Mosley. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.05 Kiki’s Delivery Service. (1989, PG) 9.05 My Neighbour Totoro. (1988, PG) 10.40 Barbarella. (1968, M) 12.30pm The Miracle Club. (2023) 2.10 Discovering Film. 3.05 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 5.20 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 7.35 The Delinquents. (1989, M) 9.30 Logan’s Run. (1976, M) 11.40 Mad Max. (1979, M) 1.20am Late Programs.
7MATE (64)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) The top six take to the stage. 9.15 9-1-1. (M) Harry’s first day as a probie proves to be more challenging than Chimney expects. 10.15 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 11.15 The Agenda Setters. 12.15 Conviction. (MA15+av, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 Doc. (Ma) The race for chief resident intensifies. 9.40 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well.
The Agenda Setters.
St. Denis Medical. (PGas)
Dirty John. (MA15+v)
Travel Oz. (PG, R)
7MATE (64)
WEDNESDAY, April 8
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 48 Hours: Escape From Chernobyl.
8.50 Chernobyl: The Lost Tapes. (Ma, R) Explores the story of Chernobyl.
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Rise Of The Raven. (Masv)
12.10 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malsv)
1.55 Classified. (Malv, R)
3.35 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm 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. 9.10 Adventure Time. 9.35 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Ponyo.
Continued. (2008) 7.45 Discovering Film. 8.45 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 11.00 Undercover. (2021, M, French) 1.15pm Mad Max. (1979, M) 2.55 Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 5.35 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 7.35 Hard Eight. (1996, M) 9.30 Zardoz. (1978) 11.30 Mad Heidi. (2022, MA15+) 1.15am Logan’s Run. (1976, M) 3.20 The Delinquents. (1989, M) 5.15 The Movie Show.
UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. 10.20 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Dark Side Of The 2000s. 2.50 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 8.40 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 10.40 The Delinquents. (1989, M) 12.35pm Logan’s Run. (1976, M) 2.50 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 5.05 Discovering Film. 5.50 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 7.40 Risky Business. (1983, M) 9.30 Mars Attacks! (1996, M) 11.30 Doctor Sleep. (2019, MA15+) 2.15am Zardoz. (1978) 4.10 Hard Eight. (1996, M)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hamish McLachlan chats with Alastair Clarkson. 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml) 12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)
12.30 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) 8.40 MOVIE: Vacation. (2015, MA15+ln, R) Ed Helms. 10.40 9News Late.
11.10 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
(64)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 Highway Patrol. (Ma, R) 8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ma) 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) More performers take to the stage. 9.45 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
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7MATE (64)
Friday, 3 April 2026
North Coast title
By Jen HETHERINGTON
YARRAHAPINNI surf sensation Avalon Vowels has taken out the under 18s girls division at the North Coast Regional Titles, in solid preparation for the NSW state titles in May.
Held at Emerald Beach in one-to-two foot conditions on Sunday 22 March, Avalon proved too strong for other North Coast representatives Chelsea Darling, Olivia Ottaway and Poppy Ensbey in the Surfing NSW Junior Regional Series event hosted by the Woolgoolga Boardriders Club.
Avalon, a member of the Scotts Head Boardriders Club, told NOTA, “My result on Sunday was first place in the under 18 girls division.
“This solidified my position in the NSW state team, and the state titles which will be held at the end of May.
“In my final I scored a combination of 17 points, achieved with two single scores of 8.50.
“This was the highest total across the board for the North Coast Regional Titles.
“This put all of the other competitors in a combination situation which meant that they needed multiple excellent scores to move into first place.
“Now I have qualified for State Titles in May and will hopefully, dependant on my results in State, qualify for the Australian Titles.”
Trivia from 6:30pm Pool comp from 6pm
MOnday TUESDAY Wednesday
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$20 schnitzels from 5PM from 5PM from 5PM
THURSDAY
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from
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q Avalon Vowels in fluid action at the North Coast Junior Regional Titles.
