Nambucca Valley News Of The Area 05 JUNE 2026

Do what you love, says BMX contender

By Mike HELY

VALLA’S Simon Belfield is on his way to the UCI 2026 BMX World Championships in Brisbane in July and the 58-yearsyoung rider has a message for others of his vintage.

“You are never too old to do the things you love and let’s face it, if you have to keep active you may as well do something you enjoy,” Belfield said.

“I see so many people who are unhealthy for so many reasons and they can’t do what they love, but a lot of the time it’s motivation.”

Belfield started BMX racing as a 12-year-old in 1980 and certainly doesn’t lack motivation. He says BMX is not for the faint-hearted.

“There are many thrills and spills,” he said. “Starting from a five-metre hill, reaching speeds of around 40km/h, negotiating four to five straights, 180-degree corners, with numerous CONTINUED Page 2

Childcare crisis

'The scale of this issue demands bold action ...' - Holly Quin, parent

with Port Bus to Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane Sunday 26th & Monday 27th July 2026

Itinerary:

By Lani GREENHALGH

CHILDCARE was at the top of the agenda at the recent Nambucca Valley Council meeting. Councillors resolved

Day 1: Pickups commence by 06:00 (TBC). A few comfort stops along the way should have us checking in around 15:00. Dinner is in the Montague Restaurant onsite tonight at 16:30. Departing for QPAC, we will be walking approximately 600 metres, (if this is not possible a cab can be called for you at your own cost). Our showtime is 18:30. Two hours 30 minutes including interval, subject to change without notice.

Day 2: A buffet breakfast to start our day. We will checkout and head off around 08:30. A retail therapy stop at Pacific Fair before we commence our journey home. A few stops along the way should see drop offs commencing around 18:30.

Inclusions: Return airconditioned-coach transport, daily H2O, Port Bus Welcome Pack, 1 x Dinner, 1 x chosen ticket, a program, 1 x night accommodation @ Riverside Hotel, South Brisbane, 1 x buffet breakfast and a stop @ Pacific Fair!!

$569 pp twin share $673 pp single $129 pp deposit

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

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

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Valla BMX rider on his way to world titles

FROM Page 1

jumps along the way, a race is completed in around 40 seconds,” he said.

“It’s all self-generated power. You basically destroy all your energy. You need power, speed, skill, fitness. Particularly at my age, by the time you get to the finish your muscles are shot.”

Belfield is a member of the Coffs Coast BMX Club and rides at the Toormina track.

Other club members who qualified for the upcoming world titles are Erica Graham, David Graham, James Booth and Steven Longhurst.

Riding in the 50 years-plus division, and at his first world titles, Belfield will be competing against riders who are significantly younger, but will be giving it his all.

“You’ve got to be very confident with your bike, yourself, your gear,” Belfield said. “You can’t go out with any fear when you smash out of the gate.

“I’m a realist. If I can make the quarter finals I’ll be very happy.”

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Childcare crisis debate continues

FROM Page 1

After Cr Jane MacSmith’s previous childcare motions were deferred then narrowly defeated, Cr Susan Jenvey brought a similar motion to the May meeting.

Cr Jenvey moved to form an interagency working group with government agencies and childcare providers facilitated by Regional Development Australia (RDA).

While councillors agreed that the childcare issue urgently needed to be addressed and that the council has a critical role to play, there was robust debate about the best approach to take.

Cr MacSmith, who was thanked for her substantial work and advocacy on the issue, presented data from her recent survey of 24 local families.

Her research showed that although the last census showed there were 400 children under there were currently just eight spaces available in centre-based care for that age group across the Nambucca Valley.

Nineteen families reported that their income had been affected, totalling a combined opportunity loss of just under $1.2 million annually, and an average of $63k per family.

Cr MacSmith recommended adding an amendment for “an independent needs analysis and long-term childcare strategy for the Nambucca Valley”, however Cr Jenvey and Cr McWilliam disagreed, preferring an approach that drew on the local knowledge of industry insiders.

Members of the community made their voices heard at the public forum.

Macksville parent David Evans gave an emotional presentation about the critical importance of childcare. He emphasised that

the development of 700 new homes at Valla Urban Growth Area (VUGA) would drastically increase demand and needed to be considered in council’s future planning.

Dianne Wall, CEO of RDA, also spoke at the forum, highlighting that the organisation’s preliminary survey data showed the childcare crisis was worsening across the LGA with significant health and economic impacts.

She also noted the challenges that local businesses faced when trying to hire employees who could access adequate childcare.

Local Government NSW recommended that councils step in to ensure access where private providers could not viably operate, emphasising that 50 per cent of councils operated childcare services.

“The answer is clear - shift investment into not-for-profits, including council-run services, to lift safety and quality,” said Mayor Byrne, President of Local Government NSW.

Research by Social Ventures Australia (SVA) ranked Nambucca Heads at second in NSW for “need for an integrated early childhood hub”. SVA’s rationale is that Nambucca Heads is a place where significant disadvantage intersects with low access to Early Childhood Education and Care.

SVA notes that integrated Early Childhood Hubs “provide access to integrated, highquality early learning services, developmental checks and child health services, family and parenting supports, allied health and other early intervention supports, as well as providing a space where children and families can come together to build social networks”.

Speaking on behalf of the new grassroots organisation Nambucca Working Families (NWF), Holly Quin told News Of The Area that

while the group was pleased to see the council taking the crisis seriously, much more was required.

“We’re really pleased the council supported the Macksville preschool expansion. Unfortunately, it doesn’t scratch the surface of the crisis we’re seeing in Nambucca Heads and at the northern end of the shire.”

“The

Sunshine speeds infrastructure delivery

By Mick BIRTLES

FAVOURABLE weather conditions have allowed construction crews to make significant progress on two important infrastructure projects in Macksville, with a new footpath and kerb nearing completion in Boundary Street and major retaining wall works set to commence in River Street.

q Apex

Concreting Solutions

Director, Jackson Adams, was grateful for fine weather to get on with replacing a section of footpath and kerb on Boundary Street in Macksville, opposite the Macksville High School.

Nambucca Valley Acting General Manager David Moloney said the projects reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving public infrastructure throughout the valley.

“Every year out of Council’s capital works budget, Council allocates funding to maintain and improve our valley’s infrastructure,” he said.

“Keeping footpaths functional is particularly important as it improves accessibility and connectivity for pedestrians

and people using mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and prams.

“It’s great we’ve had this window of fine weather to get onto these two great projects for Macksville and I thank the community for their patience while contractors have carried out the works.”

Work on the Boundary Street upgrade has been undertaken by Eungai-based contractor Apex Concreting Solutions.

Director Jackson Adams said the project moved quickly once conditions allowed construction to begin.

“This has been a great local job for Apex, on what is a very busy street during school drop-off and pick-up times,” he said.

Mr Adams said the old footpath and kerb were removed on Monday, with formwork commencing the following day in preparation for the concrete pour.

“I expect high school students and community members will be walking on the new footpath from Tuesday 9 June, if the weather stays fine like it is forecasted to.”

Attention will now turn to River Street, where replacement of the deteriorating retaining wall beside the Macksville Wharf, also known as the old Government Wharf, is scheduled to begin on 9 June, weather permitting.

The project will involve replacing up to 80 metres of retaining wall adjacent to the riverside footpath. Construction is expected to continue for approximately two weeks, with completion targeted for around 23 June,

subject to weather conditions.

The works will require temporary traffic and pedestrian changes in the area. During weekday construction hours between 7am and 4pm, southbound vehicles travelling on Giinagay Way into Macksville will be unable to turn left into River Street from the intersection immediately south of the old Macksville Bridge.

A detour will be in place for motorists wishing to access businesses located between 13 and 18 River Street or continue through to Gumma.

Drivers will be directed via Partridge Street and other local roads.

Parking along River Street opposite the Star Hotel will also be unavailable during business hours while construction is under way, with motorists encouraged to use alternative parking locations.

Pedestrian access will also be affected, with the riverside footpath adjacent to the retaining wall closed throughout the project.

The pedestrian underpass beneath the old Macksville Bridge will also be inaccessible during the construction period.

Council is advising pedestrians to cross Cooper Street at the Wallace Street traffic signals and use alternative footpath connections to access River Street while the works are being completed.

The infrastructure upgrades are expected to improve safety, accessibility and the long-term condition of key public assets in Macksville once construction is complete.

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100 years of respect, family and service

By Mick BIRTLES

A CENTURY of life, including military service, family, travel and decades of community involvement, will be celebrated this month as Nambucca Heads resident and Army veteran Lena Crompton reaches the remarkable milestone of her 100th birthday.

Lena, who turns 100 on 11 June, has witnessed enormous change throughout her lifetime, from the hardships of the Great Depression and World War II through to the modern era.

Born in Trangie, NSW, in 1926, Lena's arrival into the world was far from straightforward. Due to complications during her birth, she was not expected to survive and was christened almost immediately.

However, Lena had other ideas and went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling life spanning an entire century.

During World War II, Lena was working in a fruit shop in Dubbo when she decided to enlist in the Australian Army.

She joined the postal service division and initially served in Sydney before being transferred to Perth.

While in Western Australia, Lena worked on deceased and prisoner-of-war records, carrying out an important role supporting Australia's wartime efforts.

She served for two years before being discharged at the end of the war.

Not long afterwards, she married

DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au

(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.

Applicant: The Trustee For 16 Adam Street Bowraville Property Unit Trust DA/File No: DA 2026/105

Property Description: Lot 32 DP 545883 & Lot A DP 411514 – 14 & 16 Adam Street, Bowraville

Proposal: Four (4) lot subdivision and 12 dwellings Consent Authority: Nambucca Valley Council

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 5 June 2026 until 29 June 2026. Documents relating to the proposal may also be viewed at www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au – Planning & Development – DA Tracking. Please note that when searching for a DA in DA Tracking the application number is entered first, then the year, eg DA 2026/105 would be entered as 105/2026.

Any person may make written submissions or objections in respect of the proposal which should be lodged with the undersigned no later than 29 June 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. ENQUIRIES TO:

Charles Watts

02 6568 0248 PO BOX 177

MACKSVILLE NSW 2447

www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au

her late husband Neville, and together they built a loving family, raising three children and sharing a passion for travel throughout their lives.

In 1984, the family moved to Nambucca Heads, where Lena quickly became involved in the local community.

She joined a garden club, a group she still attends today, and remained active in the sport of croquet until the age of 99.

When News Of The Area asked Lena about the secret to her longevity, her answer was characteristically straightforward.

“Well, I never smoked or drank and pretty much behaved myself so that may have had something to do with it,” she said.

Reflecting on what makes for a happy life, Lena offered a simple message that remains as relevant today as ever.

“People need to show respect for each other and strive to get on with each other.”

Family members describe Lena as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose positive outlook and strong values helped guide generations.

As she prepares to celebrate her 100th birthday, Lena remains a cherished member of the Nambucca community

King’s

and a living link to a significant chapter in Australia's history.

Lena will mark the occasion surrounded by family, celebrating a life defined by resilience, service, community involvement and an enduring appreciation for the people around her.

www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au

Birthday Public Holiday Operating Hours

Council advises that the following changes to operating hours will occur to Council facilities on the King’s Birthday Public Holiday.

Council’s Administrative Building: Closed Monday 8 June

Macksville and Nambucca Heads Libraries: Closed Monday 8 June

Waste Management Facility, Old Coast Road Nambucca Heads: Reduced opening hours 10am to 2pm, Monday 8 June

There will be no change to the kerbside waste collection day.

All facilities will re open on Tuesday 9 June at their usual business operating hours

Enquiries to: Bede Spannagle, General Manager, (02) 6568 2555. PO BOX 177, MACKSVILLE NSW 2447

5

Call for community voices

By Mick BIRTLES

PEOPLE living and working in the Nambucca Valley’s rural areas are invited to play a direct role in shaping the future of agriculture, land management and environmental outcomes across the region, with Nambucca Valley Council seeking community representatives for a new Rural Lands Consultative Committee.

Expressions of interest are now open for up to four people to join the committee, which will bring together representatives from the community, agricultural organisations, farming groups, relevant State Government agencies and Landcare to help develop a collaborative Rural Lands Strategy for the local government area.

Nambucca Valley Council Acting General Manager David Moloney said the formation of the advisory group and development of a Rural Lands Strategy would help support agricultural productivity while addressing potential land use conflicts.

“For two years, Council has been working to try and achieve improved outcomes in RU1 Primary Production and RU2 Rural Landscape Zones, specifically better management of water quality and land use conflict. During this process and consulting extensively with the NSW Department of Planning and other agencies, it became clear to Council that producing a Rural Lands Strategy would be beneficial, ” he said.

“Therefore at the 25 March Ordinary Meeting of Council, Councillors voted to defer the decision on an amendment to the Nambucca Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) and focus on delivering deeper collaboration with community and stakeholders and starting work on a Rural Lands Strategy and I encourage any community members with an interest in agriculture, or those people who live or work in a rural zone and who can meet the group’s

eligibility criteria, to apply for a position on the new group by Friday 26 June 2026.”

The committee will be chaired by Councillor Jane MacSmith and include representatives from the NSW Environment Protection Authority, Natural Resource Access Regulator, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Nambucca Environment Network, NSW Farmers Association, Berries Australia, Nambucca Valley Growers and Producers Association, NSW Local Land Services and Nambucca Valley Landcare.

Once established, the committee will provide advice and recommendations to Council.

Its work will focus on preparing a Rural Lands Strategy and supporting the implementation of recommended actions, identifying issues affecting agricultural productivity within the valley’s rural zones, examining matters that may contribute to land use conflict, and supporting environmental management outcomes.

Council is seeking community members

who have a strong connection to the Nambucca Valley and who either live or work within a rural zone.

Applicants must not already be members of any of the committee’s other stakeholder organisations, ensuring a broad range of perspectives is represented throughout the consultation process.

Community members interested in joining the Rural Lands Consultative Committee can review the eligibility criteria and application details on Council’s website.

Locals help to shape town centre

By Mick BIRTLES

A DIVERSE group of local residents, business operators and commercial property owners will play a key role in helping shape the future of the Nambucca Heads town centre after being appointed to a new community reference group established to support the town’s master planning process.

At its Ordinary Meeting on 27 May, Nambucca Valley Council endorsed the membership of the Nambucca Heads Town Centre Master Plan Community Reference Group, naming six representatives from across the community who selectors believed best met the criteria following a public expression of interest process.

The group comprises community members Maryjane Campbell and Barry Hezlett, business owners Sam Maier and Cassandra Doyle, and commercial property owners Wendy Mills and Kay Harkess.

Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee, who will chair the reference group, said he was looking forward to hearing community perspectives on the future of the coastal town centre.

“Nambucca Heads is a vibrant, coastal town

and it has many long-term businesses operating in it and passionate business owners,” he said.

“The Nambucca Heads Town Centre Master Plan Community Reference Group process will be to come together with the project consultant for a few meetings, meet with the community during community engagement and together create a comprehensive framework setting out a strategic vision for its land use and public domain outcomes and I look forward to working on it with my fellow Councillors, James Angel and Tamara McWilliam, and the community reference group members.”

Expressions of interest for positions on the Nambucca Heads Town Centre Master Plan Community Reference Group were invited from community members, business owners and commercial property owners between 22 April and 8 May 2026.

Meeting as required throughout 2026 and 2027, the reference group will work alongside Council staff and the master plan consultant, Redbelly Design, to provide representative community feedback and input throughout the planning

process.

While the group will help inform the development of the master plan, it will not have a decision-making role.

Community representative Barry Hezlett, who also owns Northpipe Constructions, said he was keen to contribute to discussions about the town centre from an urban design perspective.

“Nambucca Heads is a place I am passionate about and I’ve worked in it, in different roles, for about 27 years,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with the community about ideas the community reference group comes up with and using my hands-on experience in interpreting design plans and delivering construction projects to support improving this town strip.”

Commercial property owner and In Touch Boutique proprietor Kay Harkess said she hopes the reference group can achieve practical outcomes through the master planning process.

“I hope this committee will work together well and that there will be tangible actions to come from the master-planning process. I don’t want it to be a talk-fest, I want it to be a do-fest, even

if it’s just one action that it worked on first.”

Residents of Nambucca Heads and surrounding communities will also have opportunities to contribute

to the master plan through a series of community engagement activities in the coming months, including consultation on the draft master plan before it is

presented to Council.

Further information about the Nambucca Heads Town Centre Master Plan is available through Nambucca Valley Council.

ABS data highlights business pressures

FUEL prices and supply availability have negatively impacted 72 percent of Australian businesses, according to new data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

According to Head of Business Statistics Tom Lay, the data from the Survey of Business Conditions and Sentiments helps the ABS better understand the economic impacts of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Australian businesses.

“Businesses across all industries were impacted by rising fuel costs from global volatility and ongoing supply chain disruptions,” Mr Lay said.

“One in six businesses

experienced disruptions in their supply chain, with transport, logistics, agriculture and small businesses among those most affected.”

Over one third (36 percent) of businesses reported revenue had dropped over the past four weeks, while more than a quarter (27 percent) expect revenue to fall over the next four weeks.

Half of all businesses reported operating expenses had risen, with fuel prices and freight and delivery costs the most frequently reported reason.

About two thirds (60 percent) of businesses reported making changes to business operations

Have Your Say

because of fuel prices or availability in May.

This included absorbing cost increases (48 percent), increasing prices (11 percent), changing or delaying production targets, schedules or volumes (six percent) and implementing a fuel surcharge or levy (six percent).

Roughly one in four businesses (28 percent) made changes to their workforce in response to fuel prices or availability, including reducing or suspending non-essential travel activities to reduce fuel consumption (15 percent) and reducing the size of the current workforce (nine percent).

Local chess talent making moves on the national stage

By Mick BIRTLES

FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD Nambucca Heads resident

Matthew Jeffery is making a name for himself on the Australian chess scene following a string of impressive performances in major tournaments held in Sydney and Brisbane.

In April Matthew travelled to Sydney to compete in the Burwood ACF Tournament Classical (April).

The two-day event attracted strong

q Nambucca’s Matthew Jeffery is a 15 year old chess talent on the rise on the Australian Chess scene.

More apprentices employed in Mid North Coast

AN EXTRA 1000 apprentices and trainees have been employed across the public sector, to tackle skills shortages in essential services.

More than half are based in regional NSW.

The highest participation rates outside Sydney are in the Hunter and Central Coast (114) followed by the North Coast and Mid North Coast (110).

“More than three quarters of these roles are aligned to critical skills areas including construction and infrastructure, net zero and energy transition, healthcare, digital, and advanced manufacturing,” Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said.

Women account for 45 percent of the cohort, reflecting growing participation in apprenticeships and traineeships across a broad range of industries.

“This is just one step along the path to boosting the value of vocational education and rebuilding TAFE,” Premier Chris Minns said.

competition, with Matthew finishing in first place after recording seven wins from eight games.

His success continued the following day at the Burwood Saturday Rapid Tournament, where he placed second and took home $250 in prize money.

Not content to rest on his achievements, Matthew then travelled to Brisbane to compete in the 2026 Churchie International, which commenced on Friday, 1 May.

The prestigious tournament attracted 180 players and was contested over four days.

Matthew finished in an impressive equal 33rd position overall and was equal first among all unrated players competing in the event.

Matthew’s parents recently spoke about a ‘light bulb moment’ that occurred on a family holiday to Adelaide.

"We had watched Matthew play at a high level online for some time, so when he discovered a tournament was being held during our visit to Adelaide and asked to compete, we were keen for him to have the opportunity,” his parents said.

“He played exceptionally well and showed a remarkable understanding of the game.

"His younger brother, Ethan, is also showing plenty of promise as a competitive chess player."

Matthew credits local chess clubs for helping him develop and refine his skills.

He attends the Nambucca Heads Chess Club, which meets at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club from 4pm on the last Monday of each month and the Coffs Harbour Chess Club, which meets at Sawtell RSL Club from 6pm on Tuesdays.

When asked what he enjoys most about chess, Matthew said he liked the problemsolving.

“It's kind of like a big puzzle that you try to solve or simplify,” he said.

For anyone considering taking up the game, Matthew has a simple message.

“Yes, do it because it is fun and easy to pick up."

Building social resilience ahead of drought

MORE than $3,000,000 in grants is now available to empower eligible agriculturedependent communities to prepare for drought by building and maintaining their social resilience.

This is the second round of funding to be delivered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) through the Future Drought Fund’s (FDF) Communities Program, which is funded by

the Australian Government. Grants are available to local not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) for projects that establish and grow community networks; increase local collaboration

and engagement; share knowledge and develop leadership skills; or upgrade small-scale community infrastructure.

There are two grant elements offering funding for initiatives that strengthen social resilience and drought preparedness.

A total of $2 million in Regional Drought Resilience Plan (RDRP) Social Outcome Grants is available to bring to life the social resilience activities and projects already outlined in a region’s RDRP Plan.

A maximum of $100,000 is available to up to 50 RDRP regions over the life of the program, with 42 regions still eligible for some or all their allocated funding.

None of the local government areas (LGA) within the News Of The Area coverage area are currently eligible for this funding.

However, there is a

further $1 million available in Small Network Grants of up to $50,000 to support agriculture-dependent communities within 314 LGAs, including Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, MidCoast, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie Hastings and Port Stephens.

Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, said rural communities understand the value of investing early in social resilience because they know first-hand that drought is inevitable, even if there’s still rain on the horizon.

“While other parts of the FDF fund projects that benefit the environment or on-farm agricultural practice, through the Communities Program, we’re supporting grassroots initiatives that help people stay connected, build skills and strengthen the networks that underpin thriving communities,” Ms Karena said.

Partners in Sea Country monitoring

By Andrew VIVIAN

SOUTHERN Cross University (SCU) is partnering with Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation (NWAC) and the Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) to monitor estuary health and assess cultural resources throughout Gumbaynggirr Sea Country.

The project, titled Empowering Indigenous communities to monitor and measure estuary health and cultural resources in Gumbaynggirr Sea Country, has received $199,317 over three years through the NSW Environmental Trust’s Environmental Research Grants Program.

Indigenous rangers will

also work alongside a SCU PhD candidate to develop advanced technical skills in local estuary management on the NSW Mid North Coast.

SCU’s lead investigator Professor Kirsten Benkendorff said she was excited to be guided by Traditional Owners in collaboration with the NWAC Gumbaynggirr Sea Rangers and Yurruungga Rangers.

“This project builds on our successful collaboration with the rangers to investigate impacts on the local mangrove ecosystems in Boambee Creek,” Professor Benkendorff said.

“The survey protocols will be co-designed with Traditional Owners to tread lightly on Country, whilst collecting valuable data.”

The project team will establish sites at Boambee

Creek south of Coffs Harbour and the Bellinger River at Urunga to develop methods that can later be applied across other Gumbaynggirr estuaries.

Dean Kelly is the CEO of Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) which manages Budaabangbari daalbirrwirr, the Bellinger Valley Indigenous Protected Area consultation project.

“The Gumbaynggirr people have a long history of connection to the sea (gagaal), river (bindarray), creek (yamaan), and mangrove (baru baruga) ecosystems,” Mr Kelly said.

“Integrating modern scientific methods – such as environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling and baited underwater cameras – allows us to monitor changes in our estuaries in direct alignment with

our Indigenous seasonal calendar.

Katrina Widders, CEO of Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation,

said her organisation was proud to be working for the protection and preservation of Country and Cultural values.

“Both the RDRP Social Outcome Grants and Small Network Grants are designed to help communities get on the front foot, by strengthening local networks, supporting training and leadership development, and encouraging collaboration.”

Both RDRP Social Outcome Grants and Small Network Grants programs are available to not-for-profit organisations that have an ABN or Incorporation Certificate and support remote, rural or regional communities in agriculturedependent areas.

Applications for both RDRP Social Outcome Grants and Small Network Grants are currently open and close on 30 June at 5pm AEST.

Funding will be announced late October.

Learn more by visiting https://frrr.org.au/funding/ fdf-communities/.

“This work continues the vital responsibility shared by our communities to safeguard, nurture, and advocate for our lands and waters,” Ms Widders said. Professor Benkendorff said the project would get under way soon.

Anzac Park memorial jetty set to reopen in June

WORK is under way to reconstruct and reinforce Nambucca Heads’ Anzac Park memorial jetty and it is expected to reopen later this month.

The jetty’s refurbishment will include a new fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) support structure and a modern deck, which will be assembled soon.

Nambucca Valley Council General Manager Bede Spannagle said that repairs had been prioritised due to its significance to the community.

“The jetty was built in 2017 as part of the Centenary of Anzac commemorations, continuing the small park’s

long-standing history of honouring those service men and women who had served in World War I,” Mr Spannagle said.

“Council’s structures team have so far installed fibreglass girders, the first step in replacing the support structure for the jetty.

“Next week, weather depending, they will place the deck brackets and then start to install the FRP enviromesh-engineered decking. The following week, late May or early June, they will install the jetty’s handrail.

“I hope to see the new jetty being used by residents and fishermen sometime in June.”

The new Anzac Park jetty will utilise the same UV-resistant, marine-grade material as the refurbished pedestrian pathways that follow the banks of theNambucca River from The Boatshed down to the V-wall.

Anzac Park was established by Nambucca Heads Lions Club as a memorial place in 2001.

In 2017, the Nambucca Heads RSL Club constructed the first memorial jetty, from a $7000 donation and $2000 from Council. The project was part of the Centenary of Anzac commemorations and its special sign still sits alongside the jetty.

Exhibition probes the Australian Dream

By Mick BIRTLES

A THOUGHT-provoking exhibition examining how Australians have imagined, built and redefined the concept of home over the decades has arrived at Nambucca Library, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the nation’s changing housing aspirations.

‘The Australian Dream?’, a touring display developed by the State Library of NSW in collaboration with architecture commentator Tim Ross, opened this week at Nambucca Library and explores the history, myths and realities behind one of Australia’s most enduring cultural ideas.

Adapted from a larger exhibition of the same name, the display has been reimagined for public libraries across New South Wales and features reproductions of architectural drawings, archival photographs and vintage real estate brochures.

Together, these materials tell the story of the people, places and design ideas that have helped shape, and sometimes challenge, the traditional notion of the

Australian dream.

Nambucca Valley Council Libraries Team Leader Rowena Sierant said the exhibition tackled a subject that remains highly relevant today.

“Housing and its affordability and availability is such a topical subject in Australia,” she said.

“I’ve been fascinated with housing for many years and this exhibition is going to crack open this subject, following its theme all the way from the past to the present.”

To create the exhibition, Tim Ross spent a year exploring the State Library’s archives alongside co-curator Anna Dearnley, uncovering stories that revealed the diversity of Australian housing aspirations.

“For a long time, we've been told that the Australian dream means a quarter-acre block, a Hills Hoist, and a Holden in the driveway,” Mr Ross said.

“But that’s never been the whole story. My display shows how diverse our housing dreams really are –from prefab fibro houses to high-rise apartments – the

Australian dream has always been more than a single cliché.”

Among the highlights is a rare look inside the iconic Richardson House, also known as ‘Kumale’, a futuristic waterfront home designed by renowned architect Peter Muller.

Through striking photographs by celebrated photographer Max Dupain, visitors can explore the residence built by Victa lawn mower inventor Mervyn Victor Richardson.

Although Richardson made his fortune supplying products synonymous with suburban living, he chose a dramatically different lifestyle in a home Mr Ross has described as “part Bond villain lair, part architectural genius”.

The exhibition also shines a light on the largely forgotten influence of Beryl Guertner, the first editor of Australian House and Garden magazine.

Guertner helped shape post-war housing aspirations through design ideas and practical advice while creating her own sophisticated country retreat in the Blue Mountains.

q Nambucca Valley Council Libraries Team Leader Rowena Sierant, pictured left, this week finished unpacking the fantastic touring display from the State Library of NSW, ‘The Australian Dream?’. Photo: supplied.

Display co-curator Anna Dearnley said publications such as House and Garden played a major role in influencing Australian home design.

“Magazines like House and Garden were incredibly influential in shaping how our homes looked at the time. Beryl Guertner was a champion for the DIY movement. Her magazine would feature sets of house

from across the political spectrum.

plans by respected architects so you too could build your own well-designed house in your spare time.”

The exhibition also looks ahead, exploring contemporary housing challenges through a compelling photographic series by Paul Blackmore focusing on apartment living and evolving attitudes towards home ownership.

At a time when housing

affordability continues to dominate public discussion, ‘The Australian Dream?’ encourages visitors to consider whether some of the answers to today’s challenges may lie in ideas from the past. The exhibition will remain at Nambucca Library until Friday 19 June before moving to Macksville Library, where it will be on display from 29 June to 17 July.

Review into response of Reconstruction Authority to floods

A REPORT has been published examining the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s response to the

severe weather event that hit the east coast in May 2025. The review was undertaken by the Joint Select Committee on the NSW Reconstruction Authority, composed of MPs

the May 2025 flooding.

“This inquiry had a focus on the severe weather event that struck the broader NSW east coast in May 2025, particularly on the Mid North Coast region including Taree and surrounds,” said committee chair and Labor MP Clayton Barr.

In the report’s foreword, Mr Barr warned of the consistently high level of demand on the Authority.

“This single agency (NSW Reconstruction Authority) is expected to be so many things to so many people under a wide range of circumstances,” he said.

“Whether it is a power outage in the Far West, a flood in the Central West, a landslip on the North or South Coast, fires raging through the Hunter Valley, or a terrorist attack on the beaches of Sydney, we are increasingly turning to the NSW Reconstruction Authority for action.

“I have a personal concern that there must come a limit to the capacity of this one agency and that

Wolves lead the pack in Premier League

By Aiden BURGESS

THE Woolgoolga Wolves have maintained top spot on the ladder with a 4-3 win against the Yamba Breakers in Yamba during the latest round of North Coast Football’s Men’s Premier League season. The Wolves remain perfect this season with seven wins from as many matches.

The Northern Storm also remain perfect this season, after a 3-0 win at home against the Urunga Raiders at Korora Oval.

The Maclean Bobcats were also winners in Round 8, defeating Bellingen FC 2-1 at the Coffs Coast Synthetics. The scheduled match between the Coffs Coast Tigers and Sawtell Scorpions was

postponed.

Men’s ladder 1.

Woolgoolga Wolves. 21 points. 7 wins. 0 losses. Goal difference (g,d): 22. 2 .Northern Storm. 18 points. 6 wins. 0 losses. (g.d): 23. 3. Yamba Breakers. 12 points. 4 wins. 2 losses. (g.d): 5. 4. Sawtell Scorpions. 10 points. 3 wins. 1 draw. 2 losses. (g,d): 5.

5. Maclean Bobcats. 10 points.

3 wins. 1 draw. 3 losses. (g.d): -7. 6. Bellingen FC. 6 points. 2 wins. 5 losses. (g.d): -9. 7. Coffs City United Lions. 4 points. 1 win. 1 draw. 5 losses. (g.d): -7. 8. Coffs Coast Tigers. 4 points. 1 win. 1 draw. 4 losses. (g.d): -14. 9. Urunga Raiders. 3 points. 1 win. 7 losses. (g.d): -18.

Women’s

The Urunga Raiders kept their undefeated start to the

future government should be mindful of such a limitation.”

Broadly the Committee found that the Authority has strengthened its disaster recovery efforts since its establishment in 2022, however further improvements are needed to better support impacted communities over the long term.

The report makes 23 recommendations aimed at improving the Authority’s operations, including:

• Strengthening interagency coordination and partnerships with local councils and community organisations;

• Expanding existing initiatives to support impacted individuals to 'tell their story once’ following a disaster;

• Clarifying the Authority’s use of planning powers and interventions, including making improvements to the Resilient Homes Program;

• Increasing investment in disaster resilience and preparedness initiatives;

• Prioritising improvements to streamline payments to local councils as a matter of urgency.

Mr Barr said the review highlighted the importance of a communityled approach to disaster recovery.

“By working closely with local councils, community organisations and social service providers, the Authority can better support people who are most vulnerable in the wake of a disaster."

The report also highlights the need for continued improvements to disaster funding arrangements to ensure support reaches affected communities quickly and efficiently.

"Recovery is a long journey, and many communities are still rebuilding after this historic disaster.

“We hope the Committee's recommendations will ensure the Authority is providing the best possible support to help communities build back better," Mr Barr said.

SPORT

season going with a 4-1 win against the Northern Storm at York Street Oval. It was the Raiders fifth win from as many games this season.

The Coffs City United Lionesses were dominant in a 6-1 victory over the Boambee Eagles at the Coffs Coast Synthetics, their third win in a row.

Women’s ladder 1. Urunga Raiders. 15 points. 5 wins. 0 losses. Goal differential. (g,d): 17. 2. Coffs City United Lionesses. 12 points. 4 wins. 2 losses. (g.d): 17. 3. Woolgoolga Wildcats. 9 points. 3 wins. 3 losses. (g.d): -3. 4. Northern Storm. 4 points. 1 win. 1 draw. 4 losses. (g.d): -13. 5. Boambee Eagles. 1 point. 0 wins. 1 draw. 4 losses. (g.d): -18.

Compass Music Festival the biggest yet

By Andrew VIVIAN

NORTH Coast students from 73 public schools came together on 25 and 26 May for the area’s fifth Compass Music Festival – a major NSW public schools music event celebrating young performers in Years 3 to 12.

Presented by the NSW Department of Education’s The Arts Unit, the Compass Music Festival took place over two nights at the Wiigulga Sports Complex in Woolgoolga.

Students rehearsed and workshopped pieces through the day before performing in evening concerts for family, friends and the wider community.

The show featured seven lead student performers as well as a combined secondary choir, primary choir and recorder ensemble. These joined forces with the North Coast Festival Orchestra, which featured performers from the Bellingen Youth Orchestra.

This event marked the first time the North Coast Festival Orchestra performed on stage before travelling to the Sydney Opera House later this year to accompany the combined choir at the Festival of Choral Music.

Department of Education Arts Unit Student Access and Engagement Advisor Simon Kermode said the festival was a powerful example of the power of public education,

creating opportunities for students in regional communities and inspiring excellence in students across the state.

“Five years ago in 2022, we started with 300 student participants, and now we’re at more than 1100 student performers, with this year’s festival due to be the biggest one yet.” Mr Kermode said.

Compass Music Festival provides

regional and rural NSW public school students with the opportunity to perform in a large-scale local festival, reducing the need for families and schools to travel long distances for major performance opportunities.

“Last year’s show was a sellout and we’re not far off this year either, which demonstrates its importance to the local community,” Mr Kermode said.

Young singer-songwriter, Bellingen High School student, 2024 Schools Spectacular and 2025 Pulse Alive performer Teale Kelly-Wright featured on the Tuesday night with a cover of the popular Frank Sinatra song ‘Moon River’.

First-time performers, Coffs Harbour Senior College solo vocalists Somerley Bramall and Eden Davis and cellist Julius Taylor, made up some of the featured performers across Monday and Tuesday nights’ shows.

Valla event a true gift

By Mick BIRTLES

WHAT began as a friendly challenge between two mates has grown into a community event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for mental health.

The Valla Gift was born last year when two local lads challenged each other to a race to determine who was the faster runner.

What started as a simple contest quickly evolved into a community gathering, with organisers providing food and drinks while raising money

for mental health initiatives.

Following the success of the inaugural event, the Valla Gift returns on 6 June at Anderson Park, Valla Beach, with even stronger community support and a goal of raising approximately $5000 for the Black Dog Institute.

The Black Dog Institute is an independent not-for-profit mental health research institute connected to UNSW Sydney. Internationally recognised for its work, it describes itself as the only medical research institute in

Australia dedicated to investigating mental health across the lifespan, from childhood through to adulthood.

The organisation works to improve mental health outcomes and create hope for people experiencing mental illness.

This year, around 15 local businesses have come on board to sponsor races, donate products and support the event.

Among those lending a hand are Nambucca Butchery, supplying meat for the barbecue; Valla Beach Tavern, providing food and beverages; and R Supply Signs, assisting with event signage and sponsorship displays.

The family friendly event will feature a range of races with the main run commencing at 10am.

Visitors can enjoy a sausage sizzle, steak sandwiches and other refreshments, and the Valla Beach Tavern kitchen will remain open all day.

Live music will be held at the tavern from 1.30pm, providing an opportunity for participants and spectators to continue the celebrations after the racing concludes.

All proceeds raised from the event will be donated to the Black Dog Institute, supporting research, education and programs aimed at

Roosters edge out Comets in round 6 thriller

By Mick BIRTLES

THE Coffs Comets hosted the Nambucca Roosters on Sunday where four great games of rugby league were played out under clear blue skies, culminating in a firstgrade thriller that could have gone either way.

Geoff King Motors Oval in Coffs Harbour had held up well considering the deluge of the previous week.

The home side hit the paddock still riding high from their convincing Round 5 win over Grafton and the visitors came north determined to redeem last week’s loss to Woolgoolga.

The Roosters drew first blood just five minutes into the game thanks to a classy individual try from Cale Ogilvy who chip- kicked the ball between two Coffs defenders 15 metres from the line, recovered the ball and crossed next to the posts, setting up an easy conversion for Dwayne Roberts Jarrett and taking the Roosters lead to 6-0.

Maintaining the pressure on the Comets middle, Nambucca’s Robbie Inglis was next to add to the points, scoring on the back of an attacking play that momentarily outmanoeuvred the Comets defence.

The try was converted by Roberts Jarrett and the score went to 12-0 By addressing defence in the centre, Coffs was able to stem the flow of points and, with 25 minutes left in the half, struck back with a Max Sheard try. The conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the score at 12-4.

The points gave the home side a boost. Players began making big metres and five minutes after their first points, Arthur Wilkinson broke through the Roosters line for a try although the extras from a conversion still eluded them.

The Comets closed in 12-8.

The game settled into a real grind for the rest of the half, with opportunities appearing for both teams but neither side conceding points. At half time the score was at 12-8 to the Roosters.

The second half exploded with tries for the visitors, Inglis getting the ball under the posts three minutes from kick-off and Roberts Jarrett adding the extras to take the score to 18-8.

Just three minutes later an early kick from the Roosters got Cam Simon in behind the Coffs defensive line for a try. Roberts Jarrett again on-song with the boot and the Roosters lead grew to 24-8.

Nambucca bowls report

By Charlie POTTER

CONGRATULATION to Adam Laird and Adam Davies on reaching the last 16 of the State Club Champion

Pairs... a terrific effort. Wed May 27 was our only competition day due to the wet weather. 24 players competed and the winners were Wayne Ross, Paul

It was at this point where the Comets attacking play went up a notch and a cracking intercept close to the line got Sunia Tamale over for a try and a fight-back for the ages began.

This time Jett McCarthy had success with the boot and the points deficit shrunk to 14-24.

The pace of the home side’s attack ramped up and had the Roosters defence scrambling.

A short break in play due to an injury gave players a breather and a chance to reset. The Comets maintained their rage with Kellen Wood scoring, McCarthy converting and, just like that, it was 20-24.

Two minutes later, with the game in the balance, Nambucca’s Robbie Inglis scored another try, Roberts Jarrett having his only miss of the game and the score was at 20-28.

As the game went into its last 10 minutes a spectacular try by Coffs Harbour’s Wake Petera gave notice to the visitors that it was still very much game-on and his converted try took it to a two-point ball game with scores at 26-28.

Three minutes later his teammate Macauley Dawson scored. The try was not converted and the Comets took the lead 30-28.

With four minutes left in the

Stoi and Bill Mann. Second place went to Pip Bevan, Drew Stephens and Doug Cedelland and Lucky Losers to Jinx (in the money yet again), Marg Duffus and Brian Phillis. Stu Garvey was the Lucky Bowler but missed the Jackpot of $210.

improving mental health outcomes for Australians.

Organisers told News Of The Area that the event highlighted the power of community spirit, with local businesses, volunteers and residents working together to make a positive difference.

The Valla Gift will be held from 10:00am on 6 June at Anderson Park, Valla Beach.

Community members are encouraged to come along, enjoy a day of racing and entertainment, and help raise funds for an organisation making a significant difference in the mental health of Australians.

SPORT

game and members of the large crowd on its feet Nambucca’s Brodie Simon smashed through the defensive line to take the lead back. His try was converted by Roberts Jarrett and the win went to the visitors, the final score Roosters 34 - Comets 30.

The minor grades provided footy fans at Geoff King Motors Oval with three memorable games.

The under-18 clash went to the home side with the Comets chasing down a huge early lead by the

Sun May 31. We had a visit from 19 Park Beach Travelling Bowlers. Combined with 23 of our own, 7 rinks of fun and frivolity!

This Friday is the opening day of the $17000 Ken Howard Carnival with a full field entered for the

visitors to claw back a win 28-26.

The much- anticipated reserve grade game was also won by Coffs Harbour, with both sides playing great football but Coffs Harbour picking up the points 30-18.

The Women’s Tackle match-up was won by the Nambucca Roosters. In defiance of the 38-4 scoreline the home side played well in all aspects their game but were just unable to catch the likes of Wulaaran Walker and Xanthi Hand once they broke through the line.

Maurie Roberts Memorial Triples. Then 32 teams compete for the Ken Howard Fours on Saturday, Sunday with the final on Monday. Some great bowls will be on show... get down to the club and support your favourite players.

Future stars shine at SAP Gala Day

By David WIGLEY

MORE than 300 of the region's most promising young footballers converged on the Coffs Coast Synthetics on Sunday 31 May for a massive Skill Acquisition Phase (SAP) Gala Day.

A total of 26 teams from across Northern NSW, stretching from Newcastle to Coffs Harbour, took part in the event, with players aged from under-10s to under-12s showcasing their talents in a full day of competition.

The football festival kicked off at 9am and continued through until

5pm, providing young players with the opportunity to test themselves against some of the strongest SAP programs in the state.

North Coast Football’s Talent Development Manager Nico Bonarrigo provided insights into the program.

“The SAP program is a nationwide initiative designed to accelerate the technical development of identified players during the critical ages of nine to 12,” he said Widely recognised as the ideal stage for developing both fine and gross motor skills in a football environment, the program

focuses on building a strong technical foundation through structured training and high-quality competition.

“Players are selected through trials conducted each October before undertaking a training program that runs from February through to September.

“Throughout the season, SAP squads compete in a series of gala days across Northern NSW, allowing young footballers to measure their progress against other leading development programs from around the region,” Bonarrigo said. q

Seahorses maintain top spot on the ladder

By Aiden BURGESS

THE Woolgoolga Seahorses have maintained top spot on the ladder in dominant fashion with a 56-10 win at home against the South Grafton Rebels during Round 6 of the Group 2 Rugby League season.

The Seahorses remain perfect this season, having won all five of their games.

The Nambucca Roosters snapped

a two-game losing streak with a 3430 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets at Geoff King Motors Oval.

The Macksville Sea Eagles broke through for their first win of the season, edging out the Grafton Ghosts 22-20 in Grafton.

First grade ladder 1. Woolgoolga Seahorses. 12 points. 5 wins. 0 losses.

1 bye. Points differential (p.d): 128. 2. Sawtell Panthers. 12 points. 5 wins. 0 losses. 1 bye. (p.d): 80. 3. Coffs

Harbour Comets. 6 points. 2 wins. 3 losses. 1 bye. (p.d): -4. 4 .Nambucca Roosters. 6 points. 2 wins. 3 losses. 1 bye. (p.d): -30. 5. South Grafton Rebels. 6 points. 2 wins. 3 losses. 1 bye. (p.d): -70. 6. Macksville Sea Eagles. 4 points. 1 win. 4 losses. 1 bye. (p.d): -44. 7. Grafton Ghosts. 2 points. 1 win. 5 losses. (p.d): -60.

Reserves

The Woolgoolga Seahorses moved into second spot on the ladder

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club

By Chris KNIGHTS

ONE hundred years back in the roaring '20s, locals on the Mid North Coast decided to start a golf course.

Not one, but three. In 2026, the Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club celebrates its centenary, as does Coffs Harbour and Grafton.

A special history book tracking the tumultuous and delightful journey of Nambucca is being

produced - with recurrent themes of relocation and thoughts thereof, financial challenge and of course the F-word ... flood.

Nambucca will celebrate its milestone with a Centenary Cup two-day 36-hole golf tournament on Wednesday-Thursday 24-25 June. This is an open event for male and female players.

Paul Gow - two-time US Open player and host of numerous TV golf

U3A Fishing for Fun

By Bruce REDMAN

THE unreliable and often wet weather lately, meant it was a good idea to have a Plan B for the fishing location this month. River St, Macksville was chosen as that offered the option of retreating to the covered bandstand/wharf structure to get out of the rain.

Luckily the rain didn't arrive but unluckily neither did any big fish. The wharf structure provides a shelter for fish so there were plenty of bites and small fish caught. None were big enough to keep but it allowed us to practice our catch and release skills.

Heather was the star of the day catching 4 fish including 2 bream, a tailor and a trumpeter. Morelle, Alan,

Greg and Greg A also caught a variety of fish. It proved to be an entertaining morning.

with a dominant 42-0 win against the South Grafton Rebels.

The Coffs Comets defeated the Nambucca Roosters by 30-18.

The Grafton Ghosts had a 34-28 win at home against the Macksville Sea Eagles.

Women’s

The Nambucca Roosters consolidated their top two spot with a 38-4 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses got the job done at home beating the

South Grafton Rebels 16-8.

Under 18s

The Macksville Sea Eagles continued their undefeated start to the season with an 18-16 win against the Grafton Ghosts.

The Coffs Harbour Comets had a 28-26 win at home against the Nambucca Roosters.

The Group 2 Rugby League season takes a break for the King’s Birthday long weekend, before resuming with Round 7 on Saturday, 13 June.

shows - is the special guest speaker at a centenary dinner on Saturday 27 June. Tickets for this one-off event are on sale now and are being snapped up fast - contact the club or miss this once-in-your-lifetime moment.

Limited edition centenary golf shirts are also available.

On course, it's been a smidge moist this past week, so much

so that the only ridgey didge competition completed was a single stableford on Wednesday 27 May.

Steadier than a jeweller cutting a precious pink diamond, Glenys Thompson won the day with 35 points.

The 16-marker had a start more unpalatable than tripe with 6-7 which only kids find amusing before rattling home in 41 off the stick

round the back including four pars. The ball run saw Henny Oldenhove, Dianne O'Leary, Deidre Fletcher and Judith Boyle collect. Not enough for a comp, but the five men who embraced the moist on Thursday were John Buganey (36 points in the Toyota Genuine Service non-event), Bill Mann, John Morgan, Colin Dunne and Chris Lucas.

OPINION & LETTERS

Dorin's Drawings

By Manny WOOD

Estate fight brewing behind the bar

MARCO passes away suddenly at the age of 52, leaving behind four children, a small country hotel, and no Will.

At the time of his death, Marco was the hotel’s sole registered proprietor, while he and his brother, Tony, managed the business.

Their mother, Rosa, however, disputes the notion that the hotel belonged solely to Marco.

She claims to have contributed towards its purchase price and the ongoing operation costs and says it was always intended to be a family asset despite there being no written agreement to that effect.

Every few months, Rosa would come by and refresh the hotel’s look with new decor ideas and she rearranged furniture across the dining and bar areas.

Following Marco’s death, Rosa continues paying hotel expenses to keep the business afloat.

Tony takes over management of the pub, but tensions arise as the business struggles without Marco.

Marco’s children are advised that, under intestacy rules, they have priority to apply for Letters of Administration ahead of any creditor or other family member. None of them do so and the administration of Marco’s estate remains in limbo.

As years pass, one of Marco’s daughters begins requesting hotel financial records, details about Marco’s superannuation, and an account of the estate assets.

Tony claims that his longstanding involvement in the business entitled him to a share of its value.

Disputes arise as to whether the hotel forms part of Marco’s estate at all.

Despite Marco being the sole registered owner, Rosa maintains that the property was intended to benefit other family members.

Several years after Marco’s death, Rosa applies for Letters of Administration as a creditor of the estate.

Although this raised a potential conflict of interest, the Court is reluctant to appoint an independent administrator. Rosa is therefore granted Letters of Administration, subject to Court supervision and restrictions on the distribution of estate assets.

Thank you to Ellysha Laklem for her assistance with this column.

If you have a request for a Hypothetical, call Manny Wood on (02) 66 487 487 or email manny@ tblaw.net.au.

*This fictional column is not legal advice.

By Paul DORIN

Tobacco tax fine for young but not old

I HAVE never been a smoker and I grew up in a time when smoking was allowed on buses, airplanes, and inside public buildings. I have congratulated the various public health initiatives that have driven smoking out of public spaces, the banning of tobacco advertising, the shunning of tobacco sponsorship, increased taxes on tobacco products, and the introduction of plain packaging.

All of these measures have driven smoking rates down to record low levels and, importantly, discouraged young people from taking up the habit. This has enormous public health benefits. The taxes collected have never been enough to pay for the cost to the public health system, which accrues mostly many decades later.

However, we now have a situation where organised crime now runs the majority of illicit tobacco sales and distribution and does not pay tax.

The Big Tobacco industry has a history of smuggling tobacco into countries to create a market,

then pressuring the government to allow legal sales so that they can tax it, in order to create and expand their markets. I have no evidence that Big Tobacco is doing this in Australia at the moment but I would not be surprised if this was proven to be the case. All those illegal cigarettes are all manufactured by machines and packaged by machines and the criminals must source the tobacco from somewhere.

Reducing the taxes will not make a dent in the illegal trade at this point. This would play into the hands of the tobacco industry, which openly calls for this course of action. Unsurprisingly.

The other point to consider is that nicotine is an extremely addictive drug. I have a relative who found it easier to give up a 20year heroin addiction than to give up cigarettes. High taxes on tobacco to discourage younger people from taking up the habit are effective but the situation with older people is quite different.

It is one thing to chastise a teenager for smoking, but quite inappropriate to criticise someone who has been a nicotine addict for

Smartphone astronomy

By Dave RENEKE

WINTER astronomy in Australia comes with a bonus much of the world would envy: crisp, clear skies that seem polished overnight.

Right now, in the Hunter and Mid North Coast, the heavens are putting on a dazzling performance.

Tonight, step outside with me into your own backyard observatory. No ticket needed. Just curiosity.

And here’s the spooky part.

The starlight hitting your eyes tonight began its journey hundreds, sometimes thousands, of years ago.

Some of those stars might not even exist anymore.

Yet their ancient light is only arriving now.

On the Couch

Dear Jasminda,

Every time you look up, you’re peering into history itself. Forget Hollywood time machines, your telescope is one.

New to astronomy? Don’t panic about learning all those stars and constellations.

Nobody becomes an overnight Galileo sitting indoors glued to a keyboard.

Astronomy is wonderfully hands-on. The best classroom on Earth is the night sky itself.

Ironically, the very thing people blame for keeping us indoors - our phones and tablets - can become the perfect guide to the cosmos.

Modern astronomy apps are astonishingly clever.

Point your phone skyward and suddenly the universe introduces itself.

One of the best is the free mobile app SkyView.

It identifies almost everything above your head in seconds.

Curious about the Moon? Try The Moon for craters, phases, and lunar details.

Then there are the free ISS Flyover apps, which alert you when

mellow husbands who have left every part of the itinerary to their wives. I'm putting your partner in this category. He's already relaxed by the time he's on the plane. He doesn't have any of that residual “did we pack the passports and visas?” panic, because he's offloaded that to you.

By JASMINDA

When I travel with my partner on a plane, he ignores the safety announcements and instead reads a book. I feel like if something goes wrong, I'm the only one who will be able to assist.

Bettina L.

Dear Bettina,

I've come across a range of different travellers over the years. Because I am a nervous flyer, my pre-flight observation skills are heightened and so I take mental notes of passengers.

They fall into a few broad categories - those who look as though they've consumed three wines before their 10am flight; the confident business people who fly twice a week; the over-prepared passengers with their travel pillows, eye pillows, weighted blanket, rosewater spray, face mask, fluffy socks and lightweight baggage; and the

over fifty years. They have heard it all before and it is disrespectful to patronise them. Sometimes, it takes a heart attack to force them to change. Or the fact that they are denied necessary surgery because they are a smoker.

The current rise in illegal tobacco is due in large part due to a lack of law enforcement. A law is useless if it is not enforced. Police should have a focused campaign to close all the illegal outlets and prosecute all those involved.

Along with this we should consider a scheme whereby long time smoking addicts can purchase

the International Space Station glides overhead like a silent UFO carrying astronauts travelling at 28,000 kilometres an hour.

But wait until you try Star Chart.

This little beauty turns your tablet or laptop into a virtual planetarium.

Using GPS technology, it maps every visible star and planet above you in real time.

It feels less like software and more like science fiction.

If you really want to tumble down the rabbit hole, install Stellarium. It’s free, astonishingly realistic, and dangerously addictive. Hours vanish before you know it.

Another favourite is Celestia, which lets you roam through the universe like the captain of your own starship.

Humanity’s fascination with the stars stretches back tens of thousands of years.

Indigenous cultures worldwide used the sky as a calendar, compass, storybook, and spiritual map.

Long before GPS, the stars guided entire civilizations across oceans and deserts.

And here’s a surprise: your smartphone can now double as an

Once he's seated, your partner may as well be dosed up on Valium. He is in an oasis of calm that will not be interrupted by instructions for an event that has next to no chance of eventuating, particularly since you booked Etihad due to its outstanding safety record.

Let your partner be. I'm sure his adrenaline will kick into action if an emergency situation develops.

You, by contrast, will be in full control, knowing exactly how many steps to the emergency exit, your life jacket will be on but not inflated as per the instructions, and you will have the oxygen mask affixed to your face while your partner is madly navigating the situation, blowing his safety whistle, getting caught in his seatbelt, fighting with another passenger, and ultimately being restrained by the flight attendant. Keep up your efficiency, Bettina. Flight safety relies on people like you.

Carpe Diem, Jasminda.

legal cigarettes with minimal tax so that we do not have pensioners being forced into buying from criminal gangs. Perhaps a special smokers licence to allow access to cheaper cigarettes for people with a long term addiction.

We do not want our children to take up or continue smoking but it is unnecessary to persecute old age pensioners with high tobacco taxes for an addiction that was not discouraged when they started.

Regards, Peter SOBEY, Valla.

astro-camera. Seriously.

Today’s phones are remarkably good at capturing the night sky. You don’t need expensive equipment or a degree in astrophysics.

A cheap tripod helps, although I’ll confess I’ve used Blu-Tac and sticky tape in desperate moments. Want to photograph the Moon through your telescope? Easy.

Modern phone adapters like the Celestron NexYZ 3-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter make it simple to capture lunar craters, eclipses, Saturn’s rings, and even bright planets.

For night photography, the mobile app NightCap Camera is brilliant.

Hold your phone steady, tap the shutter, and suddenly your backyard starts looking like a NASA press release.

The universe is waiting outside tonight.

Jupiter, star clusters, shooting stars, maybe even a passing satellite or two. All from your own backyard. Who knows? One glance upward might spark the same wonder that inspired generations before us to ask the biggest question of all: what’s out there?

SUDOKU

Marion Wood nee Barnier

Passed away 1st June 2026

Aged 92 years.

Late of Autumn Lodge and formerly of Bellevue Drive, Macksville. Beloved wife of John (dec). Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Greg & Jane, Susie & Michael and Bartun & Kun. Loved Grandma and G-Ma of Clare, Nathan, Christie and Danielle and great grandmother of Charlotte, Alastair, Christina, Ivy, Kai and James.

Family and friends are invited to attend Marion’s funeral service at Macksville Ex-Services Club, Macksville on Wednesday 10th June 2026, commencing at 11:00am. Followed by interment in the Macksville Cemetery.

Bernard Laverty Funerals Tel: 6568 1555

Nambucca Plaza Sunday 7th June 8.00am - 1.00pm Rain or Shine ‘Serving the Community’

Notice of Precipe

For the record Mary Ann Catherine Turner(c) of Warrell Creek, New South Wales, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis. I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names. My lawful Conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 38431 35609 on Proclamation Date December 29, 2025, and tacit agreement was established by my unrebutted Living Testimony in the Form of an Affidavit. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Mary Ann Catherine Turner in fraudulent debased DogLatin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.

MALTESE Shih Tzu puppy - 1M MC# 991003003438663 BIN# B000616552 Located Port Stephens Ph/Txt 0474 378 452 TB Free

3.4m

NAMBUCCA VALLEY

SATURDAY

THE HARDACRES

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Like Downton Abbey but if Lord Grantham were an Irish dock labourer and Lady Violet a wily smuggler with a set of manners to match, this rags-to-riches tale is a breath of fresh air in the at-times stuffy period drama landscape. Loosely inspired by C.L. Skelton’s best-selling novels, the 1890s-set series follows the tight-knit Hardacre family from the moment a tragic accident leaves them on the brink of destitution. A bit of quick thinking in this eventful double-episode premiere results in wealth beyond measure and Mary and Sam (Claire Cooper and Liam McMahon, both pictured) promptly find themselves lording over a lavish Yorkshire estate.

FRIDAY, June 5

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (Final, PG, R) 1.45 Bad Company. (Final, Ml, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Aust. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross visits an insect expo.

8.35 Shetland. (Mv) Calder and Tosh wrestle with the revelation of Annie’s past life.

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

10.10 Urzila. (Final, Mdls, R)

10.40 ABC Late News.

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

11.45 Love Me. (M, R)

1.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

FAMILY (22)

SUNDAY

GROUND UP

ABC TV, 8.30pm

In a 2014 episode of Sitch) and his team of beleaguered bureaucrats debate the prospect of building a stadium in Hobart – whether the locals want it or not. As that prophetic storyline becomes a reality, this cheeky new office comedy starring Sam Pang (pictured) imagines the creation of Tasmania’s first AFL team. Sent from Melbourne to establish the league’s 19th club, administrator Hugh Shen (Pang) quickly realises he’s in over his head. Working alongside ambitious public servant Destiny (Emma Harvie, Colin from Accounts hapless assistant Jameson (Dylan Murphy), Hugh is under pressure to select the team song and a club mascot in Sunday’s hilarious premiere.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Jewels Of The Alps: Italy’s Great Lakes. (PGa, R) 11.05 Europe’s Waterways. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 The Lost City Of Ramses. (PGa, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (PG)

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. (Ml)

9.50 Rock Legends. (PGs, R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (Return, MA15+v)

11.45 The Typist. (Malv, R)

12.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R)

3.55 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (Malsv, R)

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

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.50 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

MONDAY FARMER WANTS A WIFE

The women of Australia have spoken: this year’s crop of farmers is the “hottest ever”. The five rural Romeos looking for love on the reality romance series this year inspired a record number of applications, setting the bar high from the beginning of this 16th season. Grazier Alex, almond grower Jarrad, cowboy Dylan, apple cultivator Zac and dairy farmer Jason all love what they do and life on the land, but they find themselves longing for something more. All that’s about to change. Host Natalie Gruzlewski (pictured) introduces each to eight potential partners in Monday’s premiere, leaving them spoilt for choice. They get to know the city girls in a series of speed dates, before inviting five back to the farm.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Sinister Cover-Up. (2023, Mav, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Angels & Demons. (2009, Mav, R) A professor and physicist race against time to find four kidnapped cardinals. Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Ayelet Zurer.

10.45 MOVIE: Gunpowder Milkshake. (2021, MA15+v, R) An assassin is reunited with her mother. Karen Gillan, Lena Headey. 1.10 Quacks. (Final, MA15+as)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 14. Canberra Raiders v Sydney Roosters.

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

10.30 MOVIE: Get Shorty. (1995, MA15+l, R) A debt collector becomes a film producer. John Travolta.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney.

7.30 Selling Houses

Magpies win in rain affected round

By Aiden BURGESS

THE PORT Macquarie Magpies have been victorious during a rain-affected round of the AFL North Coast season.

The Magpies reserves smashed the Grafton Tigers 15.14 (104) to 3.1 (19) in Grafton.

The scheduled matches between the Sawtell/Toormina Saints and Northern Beaches Blues at Richardson Park were cancelled due to wet weather.

The AFL North Coast season takes a break for the King’s Birthday long weekend, before resuming with Round 9 matches on Saturday, 13 June.

Senior men’s ladder. 1. Coffs Harbour Breakers. 20 points. 5 wins. 1 loss. 171.28%. 2. Sawtell/Toormina Saints. 12 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 105.65%. 3. Port Macquarie Magpies. 12 points. 3 wins. 3 losses. 147.25%. 4. Northern Beaches Blues. 0 points. 0 wins. 5 losses. 31.79%.

6.00

SATURDAY, June 6

6.00

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kath, Kim and Sharon go to the races.

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma)

A man is shot dead at his villa.

8.30 The Hardacres. (Premiere, PG)

A working class family in 1890s Yorkshire move from a grimy fish dock to a vast country estate.

10.05 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) Bergerac must negotiate for his life and solve the murder. 11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Wiggle. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Kangaroo Beach. 4.10 Dino Dex. 5.10 TBA. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 MOVIE: Next Goal Wins. (2023, Ml)

9.25 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)

10.20 Princess Anne: The Plot To Kidnap A Royal. (PGa, R)

11.15 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

1.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)

2.50 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (PG, R)

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

VICELAND (31)

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

8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (PG) Shane Jacobson buys a rundown pub. 8.30 MOVIE: White House Down. (2013, Mlv, R) During a tour of the White House, a policeman springs into action to stop a group of paramilitary invaders. Channing Tatum, Maggie Gyllenhaal. 11.10 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv, R)

12.10 Devils. (MA15+av)

1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Dune: Part Two. (2024, Mav) Paul seeks revenge against those who destroyed his family. Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya.

10.45 MOVIE: Arrival. (2016, Mal, R) Amy Adams. 1.05 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 Soccer. Women’s International Friendly. Australia v Mexico. From McDonald Jones Stadium, New South Wales. 10.00 Ambulance Australia. (Mlm, R) Sydney Call Centre is receiving a higher than average number of unusual calls as paramedics respond to a dog bite and a car crashed into a shop, as well as deliver one of the fastest response times in the

SUNDAY, June 7

The Assembly. (Final, PGa, R) 3.15 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. (Final, PG, R) 4.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 5.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Compass: Desert Sanctuary. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. (Return, PG) Six filmmakers travel the world.

8.30 Ground Up. (Premiere, Ml) Follows the behind-the-scenes drama in the creation of a Tasmanian AFL team.

9.00 The Capture. (Return, MA15+v) Rachel is caught up in a deadly conspiracy.

10.00 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R)

11.00 The Hardacres. (PG, R)

12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Movin’ To The Country. (R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am The Movie Show.

6.40 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 8.35 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 10.50 Let Me Go. (2023, M, French) 12.30pm Ghoomer. (2023, M, Hindi) 3.00 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 4.35 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 6.35 Charro! (1969, PG) 8.30 True Grit. (2010, M) 10.30 Eager Bodies. (2003, MA15+, French) 12.15am The Peacemaker. (1997, MA15+) 2.30 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 We Are Jeni. (Malv) 9.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 1. 11.05 Rescuing The Nile’s Sunken Temple. (R)

12.10 Australia Uncovered: Strong Female Lead. (Ma, R) 1.35 Entanglement. (PGa, R)

2.45 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (Ms, R)

4.20 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

VICELAND (31)

MOVIE: Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979, M) 10.15 Dinosaur. (Return) 11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. Stage 8. 1.50am Under The Banner Of Heaven. 3.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 2.15pm Jeopardy! 4.20 France 24. 4.50 PBS Washington Week. 5.15 PBS News Compass Points. 5.45 The Frontier. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 MOVIE: Monty Python And The Holy Grail. (1975, PG) 10.10 Dinosaur. 11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. Stage 9. 1.50am Under The Banner Of Heaven. 3.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am Roxane. Continued. (2019, PG, French) 6.40 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 8.40 Charro! (1969, PG) 10.40 Point Break. (1991, M) 12.55pm Suffragette. (2015, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 Discovering Film. 4.15 Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 6.55 Ride In The Whirlwind. (1965, PG) 8.30 First Blood. (1982, MA15+) 10.20 In The Land Of Brothers. (2024, M, Farsi) 12.05am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls, R) 8.10 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on long-form investigations.

9.10 The Philpotts: A Very British Horror. (Malsv, R) Examines a house fire.

10.45 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Malv, R)

11.45 Autopsy USA. (Mad, R)

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

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

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

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Shark! (PGal) 8.15 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.15 9News Late.

9.45 The First 48: Truly Lost. (Return, Mav) Two young men are shot and killed in a car.

10.45 American Ripper: No Rest For The Wicked. (Mav) 11.40 Love Cheats. (PGals, R)

Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

8.30 Paramedics. 9.30 Emergency. 10.30 Keeping Up Appearances. 11.10 Late Programs.

Beyblade Burst: Quad Drive. 6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Lady Torque TV. (Premiere) 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Boating.

PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games. (2012, M) 10.20 To Be Advised. 12.20am Gotham. (Final) 1.10 Arrow. 2.50 Australian Ninja Warrior. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s

Nambucca’s longest bream will take the biggest prize

FROM Page 20

There will be a special $500 prize for the longest bream caught, as well as prizes for the largest fish caught across a range of categories over the two days. Competitors must be financial members of the club.

Friday, 5 June 2026

Club publicity officer Richard Todd said the competition entry fee was $35 for adults and $5 for juniors, which included 12 months’ club membership.

Membership sign-on day is 14 June between 10am-2pm at the fishing club clubhouse, located at the Shelley Beach boat ramp. Todd hopes the bream fishing

competition will become an annual event, boosting club numbers and attracting keen fishers to the Nambucca Valley over the August weekend.

“As they say, you have to be in it to win it,” Todd said. “Through the competition we’re hoping to attract some younger members. Our junior members are going to be

the lifeblood of the club.

“This competition will help to promote the club and will also put a bit back into the community.”

Todd said the $500 prize for the longest bream was chosen because not all anglers had a suitable boat for ocean fishing.

“Not everybody can get outside, so this means people who fish

in the river or from the beach can still enter the competition and have a chance,” Todd said.

Fish weigh-in (not gilled or gutted) will be between 3pm and 4pm on 15 August and at 1pm on 16 August at the Shelley Beach clubhouse. A free barbecue will follow the Sunday weigh-in.

6.00

MONDAY, June 8

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Jewels Of The Alps: Italy’s Great Lakes. (PGa, R) 11.20 Europe’s Waterways. (PGa, R) 2.00 Pompeii: The Last Mysteries Revealed. (Ma, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Jeopardy! 4.25 Letters And Numbers. (R) 4.55 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R)

9.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Mother Of Chooks. (PG)

11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 2. 1.20 Gomorrah. (Malv, R) 2.15 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (Mas, R) 3.50 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.30 Chopped Junior. 10.10 Kids Baking Championship. 10.55 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, June 9

R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Aust. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (Return, PGal) 9.00 The Rookie. (Return, Mav)

10.00 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 11.00 The Agenda Setters. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)

1.00 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Shark! (PGal) 8.45 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 1. Finals.

100% Footy. (Mal) 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGal) 12.30 Footy Classified. (Ml) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Monsters Of The Deep. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

8.30 Insight.

9.30 Dateline.

7MATE (64)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.05 Likes. (Man) 11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 3. 1.20 Divided We Stand. (Mlv, R) 2.20 Waterman: Duke –Ambassador Of Aloha. (PG, R)

VICELAND (31)

SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 6.55 Ride In The Whirlwind. (1965, PG) 8.25 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 10.00 True Grit. (2010, M) Noon Jack Mimoun And The Secrets Of Val Verde. (2022, M, French) 1.55 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 3.55 Charro! (1969, PG) 5.50 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 7.40 Memory Lane. (2024, M, Dutch) 9.30 Tea With Mussolini. (1999, PG) 11.45 Late Programs. 6am Finding Graceland. Continued. (1998, PG) 6.55 Discovering Film. 7.45 Tea With Mussolini. (1999, PG) 10.00 In The Land Of Brothers. (2024, M, Farsi) 11.45 Memory Lane. (2024, M, Dutch) 1.35pm Ride In The Whirlwind. (1965, PG) 3.10 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 5.00 The Red Shoes. (1948, PG) 7.30 The Seed Of The Sacred Fig. (2024, M, Farsi) 10.30 Jane Eyre. (2011) 12.45am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well. 10.30 The Agenda Setters.

4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

11.30 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mamv, R) 12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7MATE (64)

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WEDNESDAY, June 10

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Wonders Of The Sun With Dara Ó Briain. (R)

9.20 Coldwater. (Premiere)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PGa, R)

11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour

Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 4.

1.20 Michael Mosley: Truth About Sleep. (R)

2.30 The American Fuhrer. (PGav, R) 3.20 Nazi Death Marches. (Mav, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv)

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) Hamish McLachlan chats with Mark Blicavs.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Australia: Now And Then. (Mal, R)

12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 3. Finals. 10.05

THURSDAY,

Gardening Australia. (R)

Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

FAMILY (22)

(Ma, R)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Crow’s Egg.

Continued. (2014, PG, Tamil) 6.15 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 8.10 The Red Shoes. (1948, PG) 10.40 The Seed Of The Sacred Fig. (2024, M, Farsi) 1.40pm Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 3.30 Tea With Mussolini. (1999, PG) 5.45 I Accidentally Wrote A Book. (2024, PG, Hungarian) 7.35 Hunt For The Wilderpeople. (2016, PG) 9.30 Pride & Prejudice. (2005) 11.55 Late Programs.

June 11

6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts. (PG, R)

8.30 Saving Yellowstone. (PG)

9.25 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Ma)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Banter.

11.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 5. 1.20 Rainbow Warrior: Murder In The Pacific. (PG, R)

3.10 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)

4.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Mexico v South Africa.

(31) VICELAND (31)

The Americans. 11.05 Soccer’s American Dream. Midnight Raw Comedy 2025. 1.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Hunt For The Wilderpeople. Continued. (2016, PG) 7.45 Pride & Prejudice. (2005) 10.10 Jane Eyre. (2011) 12.20pm The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 2.15 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 3.55 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 5.40 84 Charing Cross Road. (1987, PG) 7.30 The Lost King. (2022, M) 9.30 Iris. (2001, M) 11.10 The Daughter. (2015, M) 12.55am Hope Springs. (2012, M) 2.45 Late Programs.

Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00

7MATE (64)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) A life hangs in the balance.

7.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (Final) Judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and KSI must decide who will be the series winner.

10.10 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (Malv)

11.10 To Be Advised.

12.10 Brave New World. (MA15+asv)

1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R)

Home Shopping. (R)

NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News.

Sunrise.

7MATE (64)

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By Mike HELY