PARENTS and grandparents waiting at pick-up on the first day of the 2026 school year say opposition to the proposed Tacking Point Public School preschool has hardened, with every family spoken to raising concerns about playground loss, traffic congestion and impacts on local koala habitat.
Between 2.15pm and 3.45pm on Monday, News Of The Area spoke with 15 parents and grandparents waiting in cars or near the school’s front gate on Bangalay Drive as students were dismissed for the day.
All said they opposed the preschool being built on the existing school grounds.
It comes as a community demonstration opposing the new preschool is locked in for 7am-9am on 12 February, out the front of the school, with major construction activity on the site set to ramp up.
One of the protest organisers, Nicky Kingston-Davies, said strong attendance numbers would be key.
“We need over 100 people with their kids to make a statement,” she said.
On Monday at school pick-up, parent Cass, who was sitting in his car, said the project would worsen already difficult traffic conditions while removing valuable play space for students.
“It’s ridiculous what the government is doing with this,” he said.
“There’s not enough car parks as it is, let alone dozens more parents picking up at the preschool.
“They are taking a whole heap of valuable playground space for the kids.
“And look up there – there are two koalas I can see, a joey and its mumma.
“I just don’t understand why they are putting it here.
“It’s the wrong location for many reasons.”
Rebecca said most parents supported the idea of more preschool places, but not at the expense of existing students.
“I think the majority of parents are happy there’s a new preschool, but taking away much of a play area for children is far from ideal,” she said.
“And it’s already a nightmare to park here at pick-up time, as you can see.”
Riaan said his children were upset about losing access to part of their playground and felt overlooked in the decision-making process.
“My kids have been coming here since they started school, and they’re not happy because they are losing a chunk of their playground area,” he said.
“The Education Department should have been more respectful to the children.
“I’ll definitely be at the protest.
“My whole family don’t like what’s happening.”
Kate echoed concerns about a lack of consultation and said her family would be
attending the demonstration.
“It’s just so disappointing to see what’s happening,” she said.
“There’s been no consultation with what the local families want.
“I’ll be coming to the protest, and my kids will be too.”
The parents’ comments follow a statement last week from local MP Robert Dwyer, who said he would not attend the protest due to a Parliamentary sitting week.
Dwyer said he supported the State Government’s rollout of 100 new preschools,
including at Tacking Point, but added that local community consultation “could have been done better”.
He said he had met with concerned parents and residents on “numerous” occasions and had written twice to the Minister for Education but had been advised construction would proceed as planned.
Dwyer told another media outlet last week that all opportunities to halt the development had been “absolutely exhausted”.
Meanwhile, school parent Emma Schofield has warned Port Macquarie Hastings Council she will lodge a formal complaint with the NSW Ombudsman if outstanding compliance questions about the project are not addressed.
q A koala on a fence at the Tacking Point preschool construction site earlier this week. Picture: Jason Holten.
q Early site works on the new preschool at Tacking Point Public last week. Photo: Matt Taylor.
Deputy Mayor calls for united local stand against high-rise
By Matt TAYLOR
DEPUTY Mayor Nik Lipovac says local democracy has been undermined by the State Government’s decision to seize control of the proposed 18-storey Park Street development, leaving Port Macquarie Hastings Council on the sideline.
Cr Lipovac described the intervention as “really disappointing” and emblematic of a growing power imbalance between councils and Macquarie Street.
The high-rise proposal was declared State
Significant Development by Planning Minister Paul Scully just before Christmas, placing final determination in the hands of the State Government and limiting council’s role to providing feedback at a later stage.
“You’re here to represent the people and the local government area, and then you have a State Government edict that says you’ll have no involvement in this,” Cr Lipovac said.
“That’s really disappointing.
“Local voices are critical to major projects like this, particularly early in the
process, before things are set in stone.”
He said Council and the community would eventually be invited to provide feedback, but said there was no timeframe for when that would occur.
Asked whether the process amounted to tokenism, Cr Lipovac said: “That’s a good word for it, and it may even be box-ticking.”
Cr Lipovac said the situation highlighted a broader contradiction in how the State Government now treats local councils.
“Local councils are being given more and more
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responsibilities, often with very little extra funding to deliver them,” he said.
“Then you get something like this – a major development – where we have little or no say.”
In terms of leverage, Cr Lipovac said the Council’s options were limited.
“It doesn’t seem like we have much leverage at all, other than getting our state member (Robert Dwyer) to get behind what the community wants and needs,” he said.
“Once the process opens up, councillors will sit together and decide whether we think it’s suitable for the area and what needs to be adjusted before we make a submission.
“But in the meantime, it really needs to be the community, council and the local member working together.
“Hopefully people power can prevail in the end.”
Cr Lipovac has major concerns about high-rise development changing the character of Port Macquarie, saying he does not want it to resemble the Gold Coast.
He said population growth was inevitable, with the Port Macquarie-Hastings local government area now approaching 100,000
residents.
But he warned the growth needed to be balanced and sustainable, where infrastructure keeps pace with the influx of new residents.
“People have moved here to escape cities like Sydney and Melbourne,” he said.
“They want the amenities and facilities, but they also want that quieter coastal lifestyle.
If we start building highrises, that changes who we are.
“The skyline would be horrendous with one 18-storey building sitting in the middle of nowhere with water views.”
He also questioned the affordable housing component used to justify large-scale developments as State Significant.
“How affordable is that really going to be in a massive waterfront project like this?” he said.
“I’d love to see the State Government purchase the land off the proponent and develop something smaller and more suitable for the area.”
Beyond the Park Street proposal, Cr Lipovac said infrastructure remained one of the most pressing challenges facing the region.
“When I was first elected in 2021, we learned very quickly that we were already 10 to 15 years behind where we should be on infrastructure keeping pace with population growth,” he said.
“We’re behind the eight ball, and people keep moving here.”
Cr Lipovac also pointed to homelessness as an issue requiring urgent attention, saying the problem had been growing for years.
Looking ahead to his role as Deputy Mayor in 2026, Cr Lipovac is keen to see accelerated planning around sporting infrastructure.
“We need to work with developers to make sure that we have more than enough for our local area and think ahead towards the future,” he said.
“We've seen how Coffs Harbour and Tamworth have massive sporting venues that they thought about 30-40 years ago.
“And now they're drawing events and boosting their economy and making sure that they're being used regularly.
“This is about having a long-term vision to compete for bigger events, and deliver for locals at the same time.”
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q The vacant site of the 18-storey Park St development proposal. Photo: Matt Taylor.
Landcare volunteers recognised
By Luke HADFIELD
HASTINGS Landcare has been formally recognised in the NSW Parliament for its outstanding contribution to environmental protection, community education and volunteer engagement across the Hastings region.
Local MP Robert Dwyer acknowledged the organisation during a parliamentary address, praising Hastings Landcare volunteers as a driving force behind environmental stewardship and sustainability in the Port Macquarie electorate.
“I rise today to recognise the amazing volunteers at Hastings Landcare,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Through activities such as tree planting, habitat restoration and educational workshops, the group empowers individuals, rural landholders and communities to care for the land and
protect local ecosystems.”
Established in 1995, Hastings Landcare is a community-owned, notfor-profit organisation dedicated to improving the local environment while strengthening community connection.
The organisation currently has 230 paid members and more than 1,000 subscribers, supporting the work of 15 local Landcare groups throughout the Hastings region.
Last financial year alone, Landcare volunteers contributed more than 2,900 hours protecting and restoring biodiversity in local bushland.
Their work includes removing invasive weeds, collecting rubbish and planting native species across numerous sites. Hastings Landcare Coordinator Steve Allwood said Landcare offers a unique mix of purpose and connection. “Landcare is the
perfect blend of achievement, connection and enjoyment,” Mr Allwood said.
“Achievement through protecting our natural world, connection to community, people and place, and the enjoyment and empowerment that comes from making a real, positive environmental impact.”
The organisation also runs a wide range of events aimed at building community resilience, including bush regeneration days, community planting events, clean-up days, educational workshops, ‘Bush Breathing’ mornings and nature journalling sessions.
Volunteer Lyndon Harris said joining Landcare has delivered both physical and social benefits.
“I have improved my level of mobility and muscle strength since becoming a Landcarer,” Mr Harris said.
“I feel closer to the community, and I’m always
learning new things about weeds and native flora and fauna.”
property.
“We have learned about the diversity of trees, shrubs and grasses on our property and how important this habitat is for wildlife, including the threatened Glossy Black Cockatoos,” Ms Russell said.
“Landcare helped us with strategies for keeping the land healthy and weed-free.”
In his parliamentary address, Mr Dwyer also recognised the leadership of coordinator Steve Allwood and Landcare Support Officer Robyn Camozzato, noting their role in guiding successful projects and expanding Landcare’s reach across the region.
Landcare Support Officer Robyn Camozzato said the organisation welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds. “Volunteering with Hastings Landcare is a great way to improve your social network, learn about the bush and make a positive impact on your local area and environment,” she said.
Hastings Landcare is open to anyone interested in volunteering, becoming a member or supporting its work.
Local landholder Rowena Russell said the support had helped protect important wildlife habitat on her
Hastings Landcare also provides extensive support to private landholders, offering assistance with property planning, weed management, habitat restoration, threatened species protection and access to grant opportunities.
More information is available at hastingslandcare. org.au, by phone on 0467 864 465, or via email at office@ hastingslandcare.org.au.
q Local Landcare Volunteers.
q Landcare Volunteers on one of their planting days.
‘The Hangout’ for LGBTQIA+ youth
By Sis HIGGINS
DELIVERED by headspace Port Macquarie, The Hangout is a queer social group for high school students aged 12 to 17, along with their friends and allies.
The Hangout meets on the first Tuesday of every month, providing a safe and welcoming space where young
people can connect, feel accepted and be themselves.
The Hangout Cofacilitator Jenny Dunn said, “Connection plays an important role in wellbeing during adolescence.”
“Opportunities to form friendships, share experiences and feel part of a community can strengthen confidence, and support
healthy identity development.
“This is especially valuable for LGBTQIA+ young people, who can face additional challenges or a sense of not fitting in.”
headspace Community Engagement Worker Sandy Guthrie added, “LGBTQIA youth are a priority for headspace.”
“They are at increased risk of harm due to bullying and discrimination.
“So, when young people feel seen and accepted, you can see their confidence grow.
“Belonging isn’t optional for young people - it’s essential.
“Groups like The Hangout show them they are not alone, and that who they are is something to be celebrated.”
Each session offers young people the opportunity to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, build confidence and develop a sense of belonging.
For many attendees, The Hangout is the first place where they feel fully accepted and supported for who they are.
The group builds on more than 11-years of local support offered by headspace Port Macquarie to LGBTQIA+ young people aged 12 to 25 through social inclusion groups and
events.
Around 25 to 30 per cent of young people who access headspace Port Macquarie identify as LGBTQIA+.
The service works to ensure these young people and their families are met with understanding, respect and affirmation.
Staff involved in the program are trained in inclusion, diversity and youthsafe practice, and the service holds a Rainbow Tick of approval.
The team also promotes simple but meaningful actions, such as asking young people what their pronouns are or wearing a rainbow badge, as visible signs of support.
Research shows that safe social spaces help young people build selfesteem, strengthen social skills, reduce isolation and improve overall mental health.
For LGBTQIA+ youth, who may face stigma or discrimination, these benefits can be especially significant.
Headspace Port Macquarie continues to welcome local young people interested in joining The Hangout and encourages families to seek further information online - headspace.org.au/ headspace-centres/ port-macquarie/ lgbtiq-social-groups/
q High school students aged 12 to 17 hanging out.
Photo: Anna Shvets
Flavours of Australia
By Rachael THORPE
JANUARY was a month for celebrating in the Port Macquarie Hastings region with Council facilitating
a variety of events after successfully being awarded a grant by the National Australia Day Council. This included the Australia Day Citizen of the
Year Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, Splashfest and Flavours of Australia.
A council spokesperson told News Of The Area, “Port Macquarie Hastings Council is proud to be able to deliver a range of inclusive community events this year that celebrate both tradition and the cultural diversity of our region.”
The awards celebrated current residents, the ceremony welcomed new ones, while Splashfest gave free entry to the first 200 people to visit community pools in Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Laurieton and Kendall on 26 January.
Splashfest proved very popular considering the recent heat wave.
Flavours of Australia was held at Town Beach Amphitheatre on 28 January with the opportunity for everyone at the free event to enjoy a variety of food and entertainment in family friendly surroundings.
Acclaimed junior rugby league player and First Nations performer Jikyha
Dungay-Vitnell gave a moving performance on the didgeridoo.
Well known local and The Voice contestant Charlie O’Derry delighted the crowd
a guitar and vocal
An injection of vibrant colour was provided by the
COVER STORY: Twin trifecta at Wauchope Public School
FROM Page 1
and meeting others as part of the wider school community.
Starting school is a significant
milestone for children, their parents and carers, and their teachers, with careful preparation helping to ensure the transition runs as smoothly as possible.
The NSW Department of Education recommends simple steps such as preparing uniforms, lunches and school bags, encouraging children to dress themselves.
The advice also includes ensuring students wear a hat and sunscreen, confirming pick-up arrangements, and discussing road safety.
Wauchope Public School has welcomed 86 kindergarten students across five classes this year.
q Charlie and Emilia.
q Zoe and Thomas.
q Hale and Wolfe. Photos: supplied.
with
solo, with soulful African music by Tlarmon entertainment also a huge hit.
talented ladies of the Sati Shakti Belly Dance Tribe and the gifted Havana Salsa dancers from Haven Hastings Dance School.
q Jikyha Dungay-Vitnell playing the didgeridoo
q Sati Shakti Belly Dance Tribe
Show and Shine returns with classic hotrods
By Bill HARROW
PORT Macquarie Coasters
Hotrod Club will host its biggest event of the year on Saturday 7 February, bringing classic cars, community spirit and family fun to the heart of town.
The day will begin with a lunchtime showing at Kew Hotel from 11.30am, giving locals and visitors an early chance to admire some of the region’s most lovingly restored hotrods.
“This is a family fun day, free to the public, so bring the kids along and have a
chat with the hotrod owners who will be more than happy to chat about their pride and joys,” club member Tim Brown told News Of The Area.
Festivities will then move to the waterfront, with the Town Green Show and Shine running from 4.30pm to 7.00pm, where up to 100 hotrods are expected to be on display.
Vehicles will travel from across NSW, with additional entries anticipated from Victoria and Queensland, showcasing a wide range of meticulously rebuilt cars.
Port Macquarie Coasters
Hotrod Club is made up of around 20 dedicated volunteers who invest countless weeks, months and even years restoring their prized vehicles.
The club caters for hotrods of up to 1948 vintage, with additional qualifying criteria, and operates as a local not-forprofit organisation.
Through fundraising activities, the club regularly supports community organisations including the SES, RFS and the Base Hospital Oncology Unit.
This year’s Show and
vintage fire engine, adding to the appeal for all ages.
The club is also welcoming new members who own a
qualifying pre-1948 hotrod, with members available on the day to discuss details and membership enquiries.
By Pauline CAIN
SELECT 2026, the theatre program for The Glasshouse, launched its season on Thursday, 29 January to a full house.
The Glasshouse launches 2026 Theatre Program Region's artists 'exposed'
MC and comedian Bob Downe, resplendent in a gold glitter tracksuit, welcomed and warmedup the 400-strong crowd, setting the tone for a warm and engaging night.
Port MacquarieHastings Mayor Adam Roberts said The Glasshouse is now in its sixteenth year.
“[The Glasshouse] has cemented itself as a key element to providing amazing cultural and entertainment experiences not only for residents but for the many thousands of visitors who travel through our great regional city.
“The Glasshouse is now fully owned by our community.
“It is a jewel in the crown of the Port MacquarieHastings region and such a unique cultural space.”
Rebecca Washington, Events Services Coordinator and Curator of the SELECT Theatre Program, and Pam Miln, Venue Manager, walked the audience through the program show by show.
Ms Washington said, “The program has been curated to ensure it caters for diverse audiences and tastes, from comedy and satire to Shakespearean drama, children’s entertainment and dance.
“One of the highlights this year is Opera Australia’s Children’s Chorus where talented local children will have the unique opportunity to audition and perform on stage with some of the best opera singers in the country.”
Opera Australia’s Children’s Chorus will be guided under the tutelage of local Chorus Master, Annalie McRae.
With 18 productions and festivals featured, organisers say there is something for everyone in
the 2026 program, from theatre aficionados to children experiencing their first moments in a theatre.
Theatrical highlights include Circa’s “Duck Pond”; Bell Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”; “The Gospel According to Paul”, with Jonathan Biggins as Paul Keating; and “Bombshells”, with post-show questions and answers.
The program also includes a number of children’s shows, including a special musical adaptation of Tim Winton’s popular book “The Bugalugs Bum Thief”.
Audiences will be treated to world-class music with Puccini’s “La Bohème” on film from The Met Opera; performances by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Haydn Ensemble; and Opera Australia’s “Don Giovanni”.
More details about shows and tickets can be found on The Glasshouse website at www.glasshouse. org.au.
THE Northern Exposure exhibition officially opened to a capacity crowd at The Glasshouse Gallery on Saturday, 30 January, in support of the 78 selected artists.
First held at The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie, in 2010, the exhibition has become a key regional showcase, receiving nearly 200 entries this year.
Finalists were selected by a panel of industry professionals: Rachel Piercy, Director of Manning Regional Gallery; Lorrae O’Brien, Head Teacher, Culture and Experience Services at TAFE NSW; and Olivia Parker, Executive Director of Arts Mid North Coast.
Gallery Curator Bridget Purtill welcomed the crowd “to one of our most anticipated exhibitions and the cornerstone of the gallery’s exhibition program.”
“This year’s exhibition is a testament to the depth and vitality of artistic practice across our region, offering a compelling snapshot of the creative talent currently working on the Mid North Coast.”
Councillor Danielle Maltman officially opened the exhibition on behalf of Port Macquarie-Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts and conveyed his strong support for the event.
She said The Glasshouse plays a vital role in delivering positive outcomes for the community through education, the creative arts and entertainment, while
also making a significant contribution locally.
She acknowledged and thanked everyone involved in the exhibition.
Councillor Maltman said, “More than 500 artists have exhibited their works at Northern Exposure since it first started.
“Their work has been celebrated as part of this important regional showcase.”
Port Macquarie artist Jill Cairns thanked The Glasshouse for a “sensational opening night”.
“Northern Exposure has always presented a great variety of cultural delights from Mid North Coast artists.
“This year [is celebrated] with a boom of large works which the judges could not cull any further because of the quality.
“I feel honoured to be hung amongst such talent.”
From emerging talent to established creatives, the artworks are for sale, with purchases continuing to support the local arts community.
Northern Exposure will be on display until 26 April.
Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 2pm.
Shine will feature a sausage sizzle hosted by the local SES, along with displays including a police patrol car and a
q Coasters Hotrod Club member Mark Andre being welcomed by Club President Allan Cliff.
q MC, comedian Bob Downe at The Glasshouse. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Curator Bridget Purtill, Cr Danielle Maltman and artist Kay Thurston in front of ‘Tranquil Retreat’. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q The crowd at the opening of the Northern Exposure exhibition. Photo: Pauline Cain.
U3A opportunities for learning and connections
By Pauline CAIN
MEMBERS of the University of the Third Age (U3A) Port Macquarie Hastings branch returned to the classroom on Monday, 2 February, as classes for the new year officially began at its Lochinvar Place campus.
There was a buzz of activity as members signed in, reconnected with friends and welcomed new faces, embracing the organisation’s motto, “Learners Live Longer”.
U3A is an international organisation founded on the belief that people in their third age of life still have much to learn and contribute.
The Port Macquarie Hastings branch offers a wide range of courses designed to encourage lifelong learning, social connection and intellectual stimulation.
Course coordinator Jane Stevenson said the 2026 program builds on popular offerings from last year while introducing new opportunities for members.
“Our program is full of the courses that we have enjoyed throughout 2025, plus there are seven new courses that will be of great interest.
“We have so many new presentations that are great sources - so check out the program, enrol in the courses that interest you, and get ready for an exciting year of learning new things.”
New courses include Mahjong for Beginners with Bridget Earle, People of the Ancient World with Marguerite Fisher, Story Development with Wendy Haynes, Psychology and Sociology with David Smith, The World of Judaism with Gordon West, Recipes and Stories with Pauline Cain, and Understanding our Mobile Devices with John Peasley and David Hogan.
Long-time member Rose Pontifex, who has attended the crochet class since 2024, said U3A had helped her form lasting friendships.
”We encourage each other where we can,” said Rose.
“Wendy Byron (our teacher) has taught us how to do so many stitches and also offered lots of hints about how to finish our projects.
“We are such a happy group and I always look forward to our Monday morning classes.”
Newcomers are welcome to attend one or two sessions before committing to membership.
Membership is required to enrol in classes, and places remain available in many courses.
More information is available at www. pmhu3a.org.au, by phone on 6584 4192, or in person at 2 Lochinvar Place, Port Macquarie.
q U3A Crochet Class 2025, Elaine Barnes, Jo Ryan, Karen Hart, the Tutor Wendy Byron, Rose Pontifex, and Jenny McLean. Photo: supplied.
Survey works underway for PMBH’s $265m upgrade
By Sis HIGGINS
SPECIALIST survey works are now underway inside Port Macquarie Base Hospital and around its grounds, as the early planning stage of its $265m upgrade gets underway.
These works involve the use of advanced, body-worn scanning camera technology to capture highly accurate measurements of existing hospital buildings, both internally and externally.
A Health Infrastructure spokesperson said the technology plays a critical role in guiding the detailed planning required for a complex hospital redevelopment.
“The new and efficient technology enables spaces to be measured in a few seconds, minimising impact to patients, visitors and staff,” the spokesperson said.
“The technology does not capture images of people and there will be no impact to
hospital operations, or access to hospital spaces and clinical services while this work is carried out.”
The spokesperson confirmed that additional survey work inside and outside the hospital is proposed to take place in early February.
Master planning for the hospital upgrade is now nearing completion and has been shaped through planning sessions with key clinicians.
The sessions are said to ensure the future design supports optimal patient care and strong operational efficiency.
“This includes functional zoning to improve patient flow, staff movement, safety and value for money,” the spokesperson said.
Health Infrastructure will share the completed master plan with hospital staff, the local community and key stakeholders in the coming weeks.
The spokesperson said this next phase will provide opportunities for feedback to help shape the final design of the significant redevelopment.
“We look forward to sharing the master plan and hearing from staff and the community as we move closer to delivery,” they said.
Construction timeframes
and the appointment of a builder will be confirmed following completion of the detailed design stages and planning approval.
The redevelopment
represents a significant longterm investment in local health infrastructure and aims to support growing demand across the region.
Back on air: Nik Lipovac on the future of local radio
By Matt TAYLOR
NIK Lipovac is back behind the microphone at a time when the future of local broadcasting is under sharper scrutiny than ever.
Lipovac kicked off his drive show, airing weekdays between 3–6pm, last week on Cruze FM 93.5, formerly Radio 531 in Port Macquarie.
For Lipovac, who is also the Deputy Mayor of Port Macquarie Hastings Council, the decision to return to live
local radio is about more than nostalgia.
His career in broadcasting began three decades ago as a jack-of-all-trades at Sydney’s 2DAY FM after graduating from radio school, a pathway that would take him across multiple states and shape his life journey.
“I actually met my wife, Lynne, through [the] radio when I was in Tasmania.
“I then dragged her up to Coffs Harbour for about 15 months,” he said.
A move to Port Macquarie followed in 2003.
“We had one child and with one on the way at the time, an opportunity came up 2MC (now Triple M) as a promotions guy, and I did a bit of airtime stuff,” he said.
“My kids are not kids anymore.
“They’re aged 21 and 24.”
Like many broadcasters, Lipovac has a front-row seat to the changing habits of younger audiences, including in his own household.
“They may listen to a youth radio station funded by the government (Triple J),” he said.
“There’s also Spotify, which takes a big chunk of their listening.
“I know the kids will occasionally flick over if I’m on air, but I don’t get much feedback out of that.
“Maybe it’s, “What was that song you played? It’s a great song”.
“But otherwise, I can’t win them over, and that’s OK.
“We are targeted towards an older demographic.”
That reality is something regional radio stations must confront head-on.
“Every station has a specific target market.
“Ourselves and Triple M are fighting for the 35-plus demographic,” Lipovac said.
“We might be slightly older than that, but of course those listeners are not going to be around forever.
“So we obviously need to make sure we still have listeners and clients.
“All you can do is make sure you keep it as local as possible, mention local names, talk about local events.
“But we can’t be completely Port-centric.
“We can’t forget about our friends in the Kempsey Shire or Nambucca Shire either, because we broadcast out there as well, which is why we’re now 10 hours live and local (each weekday).”
After nearly a fortnight back on air, Lipovac said
the transition from sales had been smoother than expected.
“I wasn’t as nervous as I’ve been in previous gigs,” he said.
“Having filled in a number of times for John O’Callaghan (in the 12-3pm slot) over the last few years was very helpful.
“The only thing you really worry about is the temperamental computer,” he added with a laugh.
Technology, he said, has been both a blessing and a threat to local radio.
“The station technology has evolved immensely, which is also why so many stations have network shows from other areas,” Lipovac said.
“The bean counters ask, “Why do we need a local live show?”.
“Technology’s great – you don’t have to worry about records, CDs and carts now – but it’s also changed the economics.”
As someone who straddles both media and politics, Lipovac is conscious of perceptions around conflicts of interest.
“On air, I only refer to myself as “Niko”,” he said.
“It’s Niko on the radio doing a local show.
“There’s nothing I’m promoting or saying on air about myself or providing opinions on local issues.
“When politicians have come into the studio, I’ve declared it.”
Looking more broadly,
Lipovac believes the future of local media remains uncertain.
“It’s a bit scary, to say the least,” he said.
“Over the last 10 or 20 years, across newspapers, radio and TV, there are fewer and fewer people in the industry.
“If it can be done cheaper, that’s the direction networks prefer.
“I understand the business reality, but local content suffers.”
He said the Super Radio Network’s decision to back local programming at Cruze FM was significant.
“I’m glad they’ve decided local is important,” he said.
“But next week they could change their mind, so you make the most of the opportunity when you get it.”
Lipovac said the rise of independent local outlets was filling critical gaps.
“We’re seeing that on the Mid North Coast, and I’m glad News Of The Area has come to the fore, providing local news people have been missing out on,” he said.
“Without local media, people are forced to rely on social media.
“And how reliable is that?"
Success for Cruze FM, he said, won’t be judged solely by ratings.
“It’s about engaging with the community, resonating with them, making them want to listen longer and be part of what we offer,” he said.
“In the end, success is people stopping you in the street for a chat.
“We’ve only just changed our name after 25 years as Radio 531, I’ve replaced a 20year [old] sports show, and not everyone’s happy, but I’m here to give it a good crack.”
q Port Macquarie Base Hospital is being upgraded. Photo: Port Macquarie Base Hospital website.
q Nik Lipovac is hosting a new drive show on Cruze FM 93.5. Photo: Matt Taylor.
2WAY FM now live streaming
By Bill HARROW
THE 2WAY FM website has recently been upgraded with the assistance of a grant from the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia.
Listeners can now live stream 2WAY FM programs via their computer or smart phone.
2WAY FM committee member Andrew Clements
said, “I enjoy using new technology and methods to connect with people in a simple way, and using this site means listeners can listen, interact and get the information they need.”
“In the future we are looking at installing a direct message system so listeners can send a text from their phone to the presenter on air.”
Along with live
streaming, patrons can also play the last nine days of programs on demand.
The website also contains a program for the week, presenter’s profiles, listeners' questions, information for sponsors, details of community groups, merchandise deals and much more.
For full details go to www.2wayfm.com.au.
Community urged to step up for lonely seniors
By Sis HIGGINS
ACROSS Laurieton, North Haven and Port Macquarie, In Great Company Volunteering is calling on community members to step forward and become Friendly Visitor volunteers for older residents.
The program matches volunteers with seniors who have limited social contact, providing regular visits that offer companionship, conversation and a meaningful connection to the community.
Organisers say the impact of these visits can be lifechanging, not only for the seniors involved but also for the volunteers themselves.
“If you enjoy good conversation and would like to give back to the community,
this could be the perfect way to make a difference,” they wrote on Facebook.
“No special skills are required, just a warm heart and a willingness to listen.”
Many older people living alone can experience reduced mobility, or feel disconnected from family and friends, particularly after major life changes such as retirement, illness or the loss of a partner.
Australia’s population is ageing, with more than one in six people aged 65 years and over in 2022, according to the Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Older Australians make up 17.1 per cent of the population, reflecting strong growth over the past decade.
The Mid North Coast has
an older population profile than both NSW and Australia, with higher proportions of residents across all age groups over 65 years.
People aged 65 to 69 years make up 8.2 per cent of the local population, compared with 5.2 per cent in NSW and 5.1 per cent nationally.
Residents aged 70 to 74 years account for 8.2 per cent locally, compared with NSW and Australian averages of 4.6 per cent.
Older age groups, those aged 75 to 79 years make up 6.0 per cent of the population.
Residents aged 80 to 84 years account for 3.8 per cent and those aged 85 years and over 3.7 per cent, compared with just over two per cent nationally.
The figures highlight the ongoing demographic
shift and the growing need for services and community support for an ageing population on the Mid North Coast.
The Friendly Visitor program welcomes people from all walks of life who bring a warm heart, a willingness to listen, and a genuine interest in supporting others.
Trained volunteers spend time with seniors in their homes or aged care settings, sharing stories, enjoying a chat, or simply offering a friendly presence.
The initiative is funded by the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme, which provides the service free of charge to seniors in the local community.
Volunteers receive support and guidance to ensure visits are safe,
rewarding and tailored to each individual match.
Community members interested in becoming a volunteer can lodge an Expression of Interest online or contact Gemma for more information on 0427 167 106.
Further details about In Great Company Volunteering and how to get involved are available at www.feroscare. com.au/volunteer.
Bravissimo celebrates talented young musicians
By Pauline CAIN
FOUR local HSC music graduates have been selected to perform their examination pieces at the annual Bravissimo showcase at The Glasshouse on Tuesday, 17 February.
The not-for-profit event celebrating outstanding regional talent from all school systems has sold out.
The showcase celebrates
excellence and inspires future performers.
It provides valuable insight into the Band 6 standards of senior music courses for current students and their teachers.
Leanne Johnson, who spearheaded Bravissimo in 2012 and its development since, says, “These outstanding young people deserve to be celebrated by the Port Macquarie
community.”
”They will take to the Glasshouse stage, along with 15 other incredible young musicians.”
Dominic Matheson, a former student at St Joseph’s Regional College achieved a HSC Band 6 Music 1 result of 95/100 and an ENCORE nomination for saxophone and percussion.
Stephanie Dun was an accelerated student at
Hastings Secondary College Port Macquarie Campus in 2025.
She is a saxophonist and achieved a Music 1 result of 89/100.
Stephanie led the Royal Australian Air Force marching contingent with her band at the 2025 Sydney Anzac Day march in Sydney.
Molly Bridle, a vocalist and graduate of MacKillop College, achieved 89.5 in the
Music 1 course, her highest HSC result.
William Corrigan, a St Columba Anglican School graduate received an ENCORE nomination for both his performance and his music composition, along with a Band 6 Music 1 result of 93/100.
Students nominated for Bravissimo and ENCORE are chosen for their outstanding music performances and
compositions across all courses, including Music 1, Music 2 and Extension Music.
These four talented young musicians will join performers from schools in Tamworth, Armidale, Casino, Lismore, Gloucester, Tuncurry, Maclean, Coffs Harbour, Wingham and Taree.
HSC Music students are often accompanied by their tutors, classroom teachers and local musicians who provide support with their pieces.
Some accompanying ensembles are the bands that students usually perform with.
The backstage crew of volunteer music teachers participate for professional learning, working alongside The Glasshouse staff.
Bravissimo 2026 promises to be a true celebration of HSC Music student work in the region. Presented by the NSW Education Standards
Authority, ENCORE will be held at the Sydney Opera House in March.
q The station’s website is now live. Photo: Bill Harrow.
q Friendly Visitor volunteers for older residents. Photo: Andrea Piacquadio.
q Stephanie Dun, Hastings Secondary College Port Macquarie Campus. q Molly Bridle, MacKillop College.
q Will Corrigan, St Columba Anglican School.
q Dominic Matheso, St Joseph's Regional College.
ABS recruiting for 2026 Census
By Sis HIGGINS
THE Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is recruiting more than 2,700 Field Managers to help deliver the 2026 Census, providing job
opportunities on the Mid North Coast.
The roles form a critical part of the Census workforce, supporting communities across Australia to take part in one of the nation’s most
important data collections.
Field Managers will work locally wherever possible, bringing on-the-ground knowledge and community connections to the role.
Each Field Manager will
train, lead and manage a team of up to 12 Census Field Officers within their local area.
Census National Spokesperson Emily Walter said local recruitment helps
ensure communities receive the right level of support.
“To run a successful Census, we need to reach everyone across Australia, from our capital cities to our most remote towns,” Ms Walter said.
“While most people are expected to complete the Census online, some will need extra assistance, and Field Managers play a key role in making sure no one is missed.”
Beyond team leadership, Field Managers will also support places where people may be staying on Census night, including hotels, hospitals and caravan parks.
Ms Walter said the roles suit people with leadership experience who are looking for flexible, temporary work.
“We’re looking for people who have experience training and supervising teams and who are interested in flexible work starting in April 2026,” she said.
The ABS is also recruiting Local Engagement Officers to work closely with diverse communities.
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These roles suit people with experience supporting people experiencing homelessness, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and people who speak languages other than English.
In the coming weeks, applications will also open for Mobile Field Representatives, Remote Area Management team members and team leaders, and Community Field Officers.
The Census workforce plays a vital role in ensuring everyone can participate, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.
More information about current and upcoming roles is available at www.census.abs. gov.au/jobs, where people can also join the 2026 Census Talent Community to receive job alerts.
The ABS encourages people across regional, rural and urban Australia to consider applying and helping deliver the 2026 Census.
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Maven Accounting on why SMSF specialists matter more than
Self-managed super funds (SMSF) have always offered control and flexibility.
But in today’s environment, they also demand a far higher level of expertise.
The SMSF landscape is changing rapidly.
Regulatory scrutiny has increased, ATO guidance has become more technical, new large balance tax measures are at play, and the rollout of payday super is reshaping how money moves into, and is taxed inside, the superannuation system.
At the same time, SMSFs are being used in more sophisticated ways.
They are used in property strategies, related-party arrangements, borrowing structures, complex contribution planning, and intergenerational wealth transfers.
What worked five or ten years ago may no longer be appropriate—or compliant—today.
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When it comes to your super, confidence doesn’t come from guesswork— it comes from actively sourcing and engaging the expertise.
q Field Managers needed for Census 2026.
Photo: Manuel Guillén Vega/Pexels.com
q Be happy knowing your retirement is in good hands.
Plan with confidence with Morris Succession Lawyers
AS we move closer to retirement and beyond, we enter a new chapter –one that brings reflection, responsibility, and planning for the future.
It’s also the ideal time to ensure your affairs are in order through a wellconsidered estate plan.
Estate planning isn’t just about having a will.
It’s about protecting your family, your assets, and your wishes.
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Subsidies for future health workers
UP TO $12,000 in financial support is on offer for students enrolled in medical, nursing, midwifery, dentistry, Aboriginal health and allied health degrees across NSW.
The new round of applications for the Tertiary Health Study Subsidies Program opened on 28 January.
This year, support will be available for up to 4,000 students across the state.
“More than 7,900 healthcare students across NSW have already accessed financial support through
this Program, and even more will benefit in 2026,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.
The program is designed to create a future pipeline of health workers by supporting students with fees, technology, travel, and other costs related to their studies.
Successful students who are at the start of their degree will receive subsidies of $4,000 per year over three years. Graduating students will receive one-off payments of $8,000 after acceptance of employment for a position
within NSW Health.
Students must be willing to make a five-year commitment to working in the NSW public health system.
There are a limited number of subsidies available, and applications will remain open until all subsidies are awarded.
For details on how to apply, including the full list of eligible workforce groups and locations, visit health. nsw.gov.au/careers/Pages/ health-study-subsidies.aspx.
New tests for international drivers
INTERNATIONAL visitors must undergo a series of additional tests before hitting Australian roads, after new rules came into effect on 1 February.
Drivers and riders aged 25 years and over, from a broader selection of countries, are now required to pass knowledge and driving tests before converting their overseas licence to a NSW licence.
B” countries, including the US and UK.
The changes close longstanding inconsistencies that led to licences being granted to untested drivers from “List
Drivers under 25 already undertake knowledge and driving tests, and that requirement will remain unchanged.
Minister for Regional Roads Jenny Aitchison said
the government was pulling every lever to keep people safe.
“This reform lifts standards and ensures everyone driving in NSW understands our road rules and can drive safely in local conditions,” she said.
The reform builds on new requirements for long-term residents to convert their overseas licences within six months of moving to NSW.
It also brings NSW in line with other states and territories.
By Andrew VIVIAN
WALK to Work Day will take place on Friday, 26 March, encouraging Australians to build more walking into their daily routines while raising funds for better mental health outcomes nationwide.
The annual campaign, led by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, highlights the physical and mental health benefits of walking and this year supports the Black Dog Institute.
Every health professional promotes walking as beneficial to physical health, and the Walk to Work Day campaign also draws attention to the positive impact regular walking can have on mental wellbeing.
As part of the refreshed campaign, individuals, workplace teams and businesses are encouraged not only to walk, but to fundraise together between now and 27 March to support better mental health
outcomes nationwide.
Pedestrian Council of Australia CEO Harold Scruby said the partnership with Black Dog Institute was a natural fit and an exciting evolution for the campaign.
“We are thrilled to partner with Black Dog Institute.
“Given the benefits a simple walk can have on mental health issues like anxiety, depression and stress – we hope this simple reminder will go a long way in getting Australia’s working
population to walk more, not just on Walk to Work Day, but every day,” he said.
The latest research from Black Dog Institute estimates that mental illness costs businesses more than $39 billion each year through lost productivity, absenteeism and staff turnover.
Around one in five Australians experience a mental illness each year, yet almost half will not seek professional help.
Black Dog Institute Fundraising Director Laura Edwards said regular physical activity plays a powerful role in supporting mental health.
“Engaging in exercise has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression, including major depressive disorder, with studies finding that walking for an hour a day can reduce the risk of major depression by up to 26 per cent.
“This is because exercise promotes positive changes in the brain, including
Service NSW is temporarily increasing its testing capacity with online bookings updated weekly.
The list of impacted countries and testing requirements can be found on the nsw.gov.au website by searching “knowledge and driving test exemptions”.
Hastings locals encouraged to walk to work
neural growth, reduced inflammation and new activity patterns that support calm, focus and overall wellbeing,” Ms Edwards said.
Ms Edwards suggests workplaces have an important role to play in creating mentally healthy environments.
“Initiatives like Walk to Work Day are a simple and cost-effective way for organisations to prioritise wellbeing while supporting positive, sustainable habits with their employees.”
The initiative can result in a happier workplace with “significant savings to your bottom line,” she said.
Mr Scruby said Walk to Work Day offers flexibility for people to take part in ways that suit their routine.
Many people can park some distance from work and walk, get off public transport a stop or two earlier, or go for a walk during their lunch break.
“There are so many
MPs flood recovery appeal
MEMBER for Myall Lakes
Tanya Thompson and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp are calling on the Minns Government to urgently double the Small Business Recovery Grant from $25,000 to $50,000.
They say Labor has failed communities affected by the March 2025 floods, by allowing the deadline for recovery grants to pass
without delivering the support needed.
In a joint statement, the MPs said businesses across the Myall Lakes and Oxley electorates continue to be burdened with damaged premises, disrupted transport routes, delayed infrastructure repairs, insurance gaps and prolonged reductions in trade.
Mrs Thompson said frustration is growing among business owners who feel early commitments made during visits to floodaffected areas have not been followed through.
“Months on from the floods, our communities are still waiting,” she said.
“We aren’t talking about short-term impacts, they are ongoing, compounding
costs that $25,000 simply does not cover.
“We are hearing the same message everywhere - the support on offer does not match the scale of the damage yet the Government is refusing to listen.”
Mr Kemp said the reality on the ground is that many businesses simply cannot fully recover under the current level of support.
“We have businesses that still haven’t been able to reopen, others operating at a fraction of their capacity, and owners who’ve been forced to remortgage their homes just to keep the doors open,” he said.
“There is work to be done and customers ready to come back, but stock is damaged or unusable and the grant on offer doesn’t
benefits to walking more every day,” he said.
“As an added incentive, we’re asking Australia’s workforce to come together to raise funds for Black Dog Institute, using Walk to Work Day as a catalyst for positive change,” he said.
Working Australians are encouraged to get involved by forming workplace walking groups, introducing walking meetings or lunchtime walks.
Setting personal or team step challenges, and inviting employers, colleagues, friends and family to support their walk through donations is said to make a difference.
Now in its 27th year, Walk to Work Day continues to encourage Australians to build walking into everyday life, with benefits extending well beyond mental health.
More information, including how to fundraise, is available at www.walk.com. au.
come close to covering the cost of getting back up and running.
“When businesses cannot reopen properly or are forced to cut jobs, families feel it, workers feel it, and local economies suffer.
“The Minns Labor Government must deliver the level of support that allows businesses to properly rebuild and employ locals again.”
q Medical student Aimee Long is one of the 7,900 students who have benefitted from the program since 2024. Photo: NSW Health.
q Walking to work can improve mental health. Photo: Walk to work Day.
TOUCHY SUBJECT
“Our Local Government Area has strong participation across many sports, and with a finite number of fields and with increasing demand, facilities need to be managed carefully between the completion of summer and start of winter competitions, to ensure fair access and safe playing conditions for all users.
“While we love to see
so many enthusiastic local sporting clubs eager to pursue their winter preseason plans nice and early, Council must allocate an appropriate amount of time for fields to rest and recover from the seasonal workload from one season to the next.
“Sportsfield maintenance staff have a scheduled plan to remediate and protect our fields, to ensure equitable access and the ability to keep these facilities in the best condition for all seasonal sports.”
Cr Roberts said this approach was not about excluding any group, and recommended that both teams and individuals use alternative spaces including parks, beaches and open recreation areas.
“Using fields outside allocated times can damage surfaces, delay seasonal changeovers and impact player safety.”
Users can check ground access on Council’s website
Port Macquarie Sailing Club
By Jeff WALSH
16-2-25
PORT Macquarie Sailing Club
held their double header races on Sunday, consisting of Summer Series Race 4 at 11.30am and the 4th Club Championship starting at 2pm. The morning race was raced in the start of a big run-out tide with a nice little North Easter, and consisted of a work to a Port mark off Girraween road, a long run up to another Port mark across the river from the Governors Way Canal, and a reach across to the final Port mark just out off the canal before a work back to the Start/ finish line to complete the lap. The afternoon race saw the strength of the run-out tide increasing and the North Easter strengthening slightly, so the course was extended by moving the first Port Mark out off the mouth of Limeburners Creek. Gary and Kim Herbert set the course and the race was sailed in
warm conditions with a lot of hazy overcast patches.
Race 4 of the Summer Series in the morning saw 4 Arrow catamarans start their race of 3 laps. Frank O’Rourke on ‘Zero’ was first around the course for the scratch win ahead of Scott Witchard on ‘Lukim-Yu’, Tony Kuhn and his Grandson Julian on ‘Stella’, and Jack Corthals on ‘Crackerjack’. The handicap results were the same order.
The morning race 4 for the Monohulls saw a very
Bogie Bandits Results
By Colin EVERINGHAM
TUESDAY 27/01/2026
Number of Players – 16 ( a few away on holidays,etc)
Game Played –Stableford
Winner- Colin Mason - 38 Points ( On Count Back)
2nd Ken Gallie - 38 Points
3rd Ken Baldwin -36 Points
4th Col Hutchings -35 Points
5th Glen Holt - 34 Points
NTP 4th Steve Vickers
NTP 9th Col Everingham
NTP 11th Colin Stibbs
NTP 15th Col Everingham Congratulations to all winners!!-
Next week – 03/02/2026, we will be playing a Stableford event.
ONE MORE VERY,VERY,VERY IMPORTANT MATTER- our President, Ken Gallie has lost/misplaced a Titleist
ProV1 golf ball on the 6 th fairway. It was evidently a “much loved” golf ball and Ken has been fretting for some days now about the loss ( we all feel for you Ken!)
If anyone finds this golf ball could you let Ken know so he can finally get some sleep at night.
by searching “Sports Venues” and “Sports Field Closures”..
As of Wednesday, only a few grounds remained closed - including Regional Stadium.
Touch State Cups
In formally lodging its bid for both the NSW Senior and Junior state cups, Council hopes to build on its “fourdecade legacy as the spiritual home of touch football”.
Persistent issues with flooding and drainage at Tuffins Lane saw Port Macquarie lose the Junior State Cup to Dubbo in 2023.
The Central West city has
tight tussle between the 3 Impulses for the entire 2 lap race, with Jeff Walsh in ‘Serenity’ taking the yardstick win by 18 seconds over Terry Howard in ‘Flying Dragon’ who was only 7 seconds ahead of 3rd placed Rob Barwick in ‘Drift’. Simon Gandy and Esra Mert in their NS14 ‘Up-Beat’ were 4th followed by Steve Couch in his Laser ‘Lazybuoy’, Dave McNeil and Reuban Nees in the Tasar ‘Toy of Joy’, and Steve and Lucy Bohlsen in their MG14 ‘Interceptor’. The monohull handicap results
already indicated it will be bidding to extend its hosting rights beyond 2026.
December’s Senior State Cup was the last one in the current contract between NSW Touch and PMHC.
The annual event attracts around 245 teams to the Hastings, with 4000 players and officials among the 10,000 estimated to converge on the town over the tournament.
“These events are part of our region’s identity,” Cr Roberts said.
“Securing both the
were also in the same order.
The Arrow cats’ 4th Club Championship race in the afternoon again saw ‘Zero’ take both the scratch and handicap wins in the 4 lap race from ‘Stella’, this time without Julian, and ‘Crackerjack’. ‘Lukim-Yu’ raced with daughter Abbey but failed to finish. Again the handicap results were the same.
The monohulls’ 4th Club Championship in the afternoon saw the Impulses ahead on yardstick again in this 3 lap race. ‘Drift’ took
Senior and Junior state cups would allow us to continue building on the events’ legacies, providing a safe, family-friendly environment that supports participation, enjoyment, and development for players of all ages.”
Upgraded facilities at the Regional Stadium are central to the bid, including the recent replacement of 1000 grandstand seats.
In its statement, Council also said it is investigating infrastructure options to improve the Tuffins Lane Sporting Fields.
the win after overtaking ‘Serenity’ halfway through the race in another tight tussle, Paul Robertson and Warren Sykes in the Tasar ‘Flembouyant’ took the 3rd place and ‘Up-Beat’ was the 4th finisher. Interceptor had spinnaker problems and failed to finish. Once again, the handicap results were the same order.
Next Sunday is Race 3 of the Handicap Start Series starting at 2pm. Simon Gandy is rostered on duty.
By Colin EVERINGHAM
FRIDAY 30 JAN 2026
Weather: A Hot Muggy Day
280C with a nice breeze.
Number of Players: 22 playing on the Back 9 holes.
Winner: Bill Wagner Nett
32 was on 12, now on 5
2nd: Dave Horn Nett 33
3rd: Peter Casey Nett 34
4th: Bob Lineham Nett 35
5th: Colin Blott Nett 36
6th: Dennis Leembruggen
Nett 36 c/b
NTP 11th Hole Second Shot: John Rock
NTP 15th Hole First
Wagner
Raffle Winner: Don Jessop
By Robyn KING
TIME to welcome the 2026 golf year with our Opening Day next Tuesday, 10th February. We hope to see all our golfers and cardies return for another fun packed year of golf and socialising. Any ladies interested in joining are invited to be at Kew Country Club at 8am Alternatively, if you are not ready to play but would just like some
information about playing 9 holes of golf with our very friendly social group please join us after our game for a coffee and a chat (around 11.30am) and we can explain the fees and processes. Current members are reminded to be in the clubhouse at 8am so cards can be completed and handed out before our hit off time of 8.28am.
Our game on the day
will be a Stableford event with NTP. Please make sure you have the correct money for fees in an envelope to hand to our Treasurer - $17 for members/$27 for nonmembers.
The Summer comp has been completed and the results and prizes will be announced next Tuesday.
Wishing you all an enjoyable year of golf or cards,
By Julie FRASER
THURSDAY 29/1/2026 played at Wauchope Country Club
Winners Highest Score
Lil Allen , Faye Paine and Sandra Hackney
Runners up most shots any one end Simone Thompson, Glenda Elford and Margaret Wallis
Jackpot No 1 Marie Aitken not present Raffle winners were Doris McKinnon , Sandra Hackney , Kath Cooper and Heather Bartlett
Results for Saturday 31st January
Winners with the lowest margin were a pairs game Marie Winter and
Kathy Sweeney
Lucky Losers with the highest margin were Patricia Fletcher , Jenny Wooster and Glenda Elford Raffle winners were Patricia Fletcher , Lil Allen , Enid Brooker and Sally Webber
Major Triples first round starts Thursday 5/2
By Michael EYLES
THE Tuesday night competition held on 27/1/26 had 18 players compete. The Major Final was won by Barry Cooke, and the runner up was Glenn Kunze. The Minor Final winner was Graham Rees who defeated Kerry Dunne. The Thursday night competition held
on 29/1/26, attracted 17 players. Glenn Kunze won the Major Final, defeating Ron Phinn. In the Minor Final, Ron White prevailed defeating Kerry Dunne.
q Jeff Walsh in his Impulse ‘Serenity’ who won Race 4 of the Summer Series.
‘Flying Squad’ recognised NEWS
WEDNESDAY marked Primary Health Care Nurses Day with the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) recognising the expertise of those who play a vital role in keeping the community well and connected to care.
Primary health care nurses support people outside hospitals across a wide range of settings, including community health, aged care, schools and outreach programs.
Their work spans health
assessments, chronic disease management, health education, wound care, preventive health and immunisation. Their impact is particularly visible in programs like the Aged Care Outreach Service, which enables aged care residents to receive timely clinical support in their home, preventing unnecessary trips to hospital.
MNCLHD Chief Executive, Jill Wong said primary health care nurses were central to strengthening community-based care and improving health outcomes.
“Programs like the Aged Care Outreach Service show the value of bringing care directly to people in their home, and nurses play a key role in making this possible,” she said.
“I’m proud to acknowledge the contribution and the positive impact of the innovative work happening across our Local Health District.”
Since its launch in August, the program has supported residents across 26 facilities, with 80 percent safely managed in their residential
aged care homes. The service is supported by a specialist team of nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals, as well as a registered nurse “flying squad” that provides urgent interventions such as catheter care, wound support, and point-of-care testing.
Primary Health Care Nurses Day is a chance to shine a spotlight on this essential work and recognise the nurses whose commitment strengthens care across the region.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
Dear Jasminda,
Kids on e-bikes are on the rise. How do we share the road safely with them?
Hayley S.
Dear Hayley,
Having recently observed two young girls powering across a T-intersection on their e-bikes without looking left or right, and after conversations with friends who have similar stories, the safety issue you raise is a real one.
Figures back up the stories with hospitalisations on the rise (94 young people - up from 60 the previous year - were treated at Sydney Children's hospitals in 2025).
Not obeying basic road rules is dangerous enough, but when kids (sometimes without helmets) are simultaneously chatting and hooning along at 25km an hour, it's a game changer.
I always imagined an e-bike was for people who were getting close to needing a knee replacement, but the e-bike is now ubiquitous with status.
Nothing quite says mum and dad are time-poor entrepreneurs too busy microdosing ayahuasca and holding Zoom conferences to spend time with their kids than an e-bike under the Christmas tree.
And in 10 years' time, for every kid who ends up on the psychologist's couch talking about their poverty-riven childhood: 'It started the year Mum gave me a clapped-out, second-hand pushy she scored off Marketplace ...', there will be another ruminating (perhaps from their wheelchair) on the lifelong injuries they sustained from their e-bike.
Or maybe they will be there to work through the guilt they feel following the injuries an elderly person sustained after they side-swiped them (though some of those mobility scooter riders are like Mad Max extras, so be on the lookout for them too).
Your question asks about the responsibility of motorists.
Being on the road is a shared responsibility, and you are right to seek out how to safely navigate the road with e-bikes. You should treat an e-bike rider the same way you would treat a traditional cyclist.
They wear the same protective gear as a traditional cyclist (bugger all), but their increased speed leads to an increase in the potential for damage.
As a responsible motorist, you should give them plenty of space, take particular care when overtaking, show them the same respect you would hope a motorist would show your own children, and drive defensively, because you can never tell what level of experience or common sense another road user has.
For my part, I'll be sticking to my acoustic bike on designated bike paths where I will continue to channel my passive aggression at e-bike kiddies overtaking me by inwardly chanting, 'Use your legs, you lazy silver-spooner,' to get me up the hills.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
q Members of the MNCLHD flying squad RN Emily Skeen, EN Beth Hannan, RN Keiralee Robson, Clinical Nurse Educator Royce Vitug and Nurse Unit Manager Cassie Deans.
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AUTOMOTIVE car SOS tools torque wrench, vlavle lifters, timing light and numerous guages $95 6585 7393
BAR fridge, Westinghouse, white $75 6581 2683
CHILD’S scooter & helmet. Found in Stuart Park, Saturday 25/10 6581 1939.
car seat up to age 7, as new, pick up pt Macquarie, $55 Tel. 0407 257 473 BANJO Paterson Collected Works Hardcover, as new $15 Also paperback $5, Ph 0447
BEATRIX Potter figurines. Mr & Mrs Puddleduck & Foxy Whiskered Gentleman $85 each 0401 226 410
GOLF club set - left handed $90. 0459 154 409 f171025
GOLF Iron: Dynacast Up n Downer, stainless steel, 37-degree golf chipper. $30. 0416 135 363
SOLD
HARD Rock Cafe jacket bought a few years ago never worn, size medium, cost over $200 sell $50 can send you photos. 0404 228 018
DOLL, pedigree first walker, $100 6584 4954 F220825
RETRO Turntable Flea Market Brand FMRTC-AU. As New $50. 0428 559 572 F160126 PIERRE Trudeau biography by George Radwanski. $5. Ph 0447
WESTINGHOUSE Refrigerator. Good cond $90 ono 1702mm H x 790mm W x 612mm D 0419 226 048
DRYER Fisher & Paykel AD55 $80. 0427 842 434
ENTERTAINMENT unit, Tasmanian Oak 200 x 75 x 65cm H Plenty of storage. $250 0418 403 389
KNEE Scooter, as new Used for 6 weeks, adjust seat, steering, front and rear brakes. $150 ono 0417 663 219
avaliable 02 6585 1564
GUITAR Valencia TC40 acoustic guitar with stand also learners literature and CD’s $60 ph 0418 214 394 F090126 BED stick, vgc $50 Ph 0419 224 403 For Sale SINGLE bed inc mattress cover & sheets $90. 0408 826 678
foldable brand new GC $95 Ph 0412 310 475 F230126
HOME brew, complete kit and bottles etc $60 Ph 02 6584 9884 WOOD turning lathe and motor, 600mm bed $60 Ph 02 6584 9884 NEW printer ink cartridges epson 73N 1 each of genuine cyan magenta and yellow plus 1 each of generic cyan and yellow $25 Ph 02 6584 9884
SOLID pine timber TV cabinet. GC. $50. Ph 0400 779 531
KONICA Minolta colour laser multifunction printer Suit small to medium office, exc cond, spare toner, full working order $750 ono. 0417 663 219
TIMBER bookcase 2-door glass front $80 0427 842 434
EPSON Eco Tank Single Function Printer Model ET-1810, as new . $95 0422 318 119 ROYAL Albert bone
0408 652
Caravans
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BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
AACTA AWARDS 2026
TEN, 7.30pm
While Australia is generally well represented on red carpets during Hollywood’s annual awards season, this true-blue celebration of local screen excellence is where the stars truly shine. The Gold Coast ceremony is a chance to showcase local talent on home soil. Apple Cider Vinegar and The Narrow Road to the Deep North lead the nominees, with 20 and 12 nods respectively. Succession and All Her Fault star Sarah Snook (pictured) will be recognised for her indelible impact on Australia’s entertainment industry with the Trailblazer Award.
FRIDAY,
February 6
schoolteacher Cushla (Lola Petticrew, barrister Michael (Tom Cullen). Their connection deepens before a disturbing discovery in Wednesday’s
second chapter. An intoxicating watch, the four-part romance is rife with betrayal, suspicion and violent consequences as fear seeps into every aspect of Cushla’s life.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG) Mrs Hall’s world is rocked by bad news.
8.35 Art Detectives. (Final, PGa) Mick’s father is taken hostage.
9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)
10.20 Dog Park. (Ml, R)
10.50 ABC Late News.
11.10 Smother. (Mal, R)
12.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 TKO: Total Knock Out. 10.35 Late Programs.
News. 1.55 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Terror Whale. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: One Of A Kind Love. (2021, PGa) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Juliet Love meets a former textiles teacher. 8.30 MOVIE: Pretty Woman. (1990, Mal, R) A businessman, in need of an escort for the evening, gives a sex worker a first-hand look at the lives of the mega-rich. Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Hector Elizondo.
11.05 Australian Idol. (PGal, R)
12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026.
8.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight.
3.00 Next Stop. (R) 3.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.30 Beyond The Dream: Ice Breakers — Chasing Olympic Gold. (PG, R) 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Opening Ceremony Pre-Show. The Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026.
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 11.00 Surfing Aust. 11.30 Parental Guidance. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Voyage Of The
9GO! (83) 6am Dancing At Lughnasa. Continued. (1998,
Tougher In Alaska. 11.00
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 AACTA Awards 2026. Honours Australian television creatives and performers. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
Resto. 11.45 NFL: Road To The Super Bowl. 1pm NFL. Awards show. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Tougher In Alaska. 4.30
Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Road Wars. 8.30 MOVIE: The Longest Yard. (2005, M) 10.50 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm Words Matter. 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 2.30
Resto. 5.00
6.00
SATURDAY, February 7
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)
Kim moves in with Kath.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Joyce faces a difficult situation when a mother suffers postnatal complications.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (M) Two teams compete in the local lawn bowls’ championship as the season draws to a close.
10.00 This England. (Ml, R) Looks at Britain during COVID. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean:
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (PG)
8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Tenacious Davoser Railways. (R) Looks at the funiculars of Schatzalp and Parsenn.
9.35 The Secret DNA Of Us: Bathurst. (PG, R)
10.40 Lord Lucan. (Malv, R) 11.45 Outlander. (MA15+asv, R)
2.30 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Two men keep changing their stories.
7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy. (1999, Mhv, R) A former soldier disrupts the burial place of a 2000-year-old mummified Egyptian priest. Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz.
10.00 MOVIE: American Made. (2017, MA15+l, R) A pilot is recruited by the CIA. Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson. 12.20 MOVIE: Daughter In Disguise. (2021, Mav, R) Emily Alatalo.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
7TWO (62)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Hajjan.
Continued. (2023, PG, Arabic) 7.25 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 9.10 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 11.05 First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 12.55pm Gloria Bell. (2018, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021) 5.00 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 6.50 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 8.30 The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+) 10.40 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, February 8
6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (M) Roland guides his daughter through a breakup.
9.00 This England. (M) Looks at Britain during COVID-19.
9.50 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) Joyce faces a difficult situation.
10.55 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Dominic West: Extreme Silk Road. (Premiere)
8.25 Grand Canal: China And Its Wondrous Waterway. 10.15 Dunhuang: Ancient Frontier Fortress. (MA15+v, R) 11.15 George Michael: Portrait Of An Artist. (Mdls, R)
1.00 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. (PGa, R) 1.50 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R) 2.55 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.55 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Allison Langdon and James Bracey.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Post Midnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon.
3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano
Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Overnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon, Sylvia Jeffreys and Dylan Alcott.
H’lights. 3.55 LEGO Masters. 5.35 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PG) 10.15 Late Programs.
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (Return) A couple have outgrown their property. 8.40 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives. 9.50 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) The low blood sugar levels of a 23-year-old type-1 diabetic have led to a dangerous seizure.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 7.00 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 8.50 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 10.35 Escape From Alcatraz. (1979, M) 12.40pm Dating Amber. (2020, M) 2.20 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 4.15 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 6.10 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 8.30 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 11.00 Sundown. (2021, MA15+) 12.30am The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+) 2.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal)
8.40 The Fall Of The House Of Beckham. (Premiere, M) Looks at the public fallout of the Beckhams.
9.40 The Royal Rich List. (Premiere, PG) Looks at royal assets worth £21 billion. 11.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R) 12.20 Temple. (Mal) 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
Million Dollar Minute. (R)
Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) In the final two weddings, one bride takes a big leap of faith in an experiment first.
8.35 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. Coverage includes women’s downhill alpine skiing, men’s 10km cross-country skiing and men and women’s parallel giant slalom qualifiers and finals.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Overnight.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
10.50 Matlock. (PGa, R) 11.50 Elsbeth. (PGlsv, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 8.30
7MATE (64)
Lightning v Flyers. 2.30 Snackmasters. 3.50 LEGO Masters. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Three Men And A Baby. (1987, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001, M) 10.00 Late Programs.
SBS World News. 7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return) 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Other People’s Money. (Premiere, Mn)
11.30 Vigil. (Malv, R)
2.30 The Great House Revival. (R)
3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (Mls, R) 4.00 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. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
9.15 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena and Hen navigate their way back home.
10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)
11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)
12.35 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) After nine weddings, the next phase of the experiment begins.
9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. Coverage includes men’s team downhill alpine skiing, women’s ice hockey and freestyle skiing slopestyle finals.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano
Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Post Midnight.
3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano
Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Overnight.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
TUESDAY, February 10
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)
8.35 MOVIE: I Am Raquel Welch. (2025)
10.10 Rock Legends.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)
12.05 DNA. (Malv, R)
1.50 We Hear You. (PG, R)
2.40 The Great House Revival. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 7.55 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 10.15 Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 11.45 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 2.15pm Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 4.05 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 5.50 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 7.30 La La Land. (2016, M) 9.50 One Of A Kind. (2023) 11.45 Falcon Lake. (2022, M) 1.40am Sundown. (2021, MA15+) 3.10 Late Programs. 6am A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 10.00 Someone Who Takes Care Of Me. (2023, M, Spanish) 11.50 La La Land. (2016, M) 2.10pm Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.05 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 5.45 Enigma. (1982, PG) 7.35 Walkabout. (1971, M) 9.30 The Blue Caftan. (2022, M, Arabic) 11.45 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, M, Danish) 1.35am Late Programs.
MOVIES (32)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
7.30 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (PG) From Edinburgh Castle, Scotland. 9.30 Doc. (Ma) A popular weight loss medication reveals the cracks in a couple’s relationship. Two sisters face an unexpected diagnosis.
10.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)
11.30 Autopsy USA: Anthony Bourdain. (Madl, R)
12.30 Childhood’s End. (Premiere, Mav)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Over two nights, a new task is revealed and the photo ranking returns, where connections and cracks start to form.
9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. Coverage includes short track mixed team relay finals, 500m and 1000m qualifiers, women’s alpine skiing and men’s moguls qualifiers. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Post Midnight.
3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano
Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Overnight. 5.30 Today.
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51) 9GEM (82)
6.00
WEDNESDAY, February 11
6.00 WorldWatch.
Of Ancient Egypt. (Mav, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Race For The Sky. (PGalv, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Saving Yellowstone. (PG)
8.30 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (PG, R) 9.25 Trespasses. (Mls)
10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Face To Face. (Ma, R)
11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav, R)
1.30 Golden Boy. (MA15+s, R)
2.20 The Great House Revival. (R)
4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 8.55 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl)
8.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl)
9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (MA15+av)
10.00 Air Crash Investigations. (Return, PGa)
11.00 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)
12.15 The Last Weekend. (Malv)
1.15 Travel Oz. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Revelations week sees the couples show some vulnerability as a new task begins.
9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Night. Coverage includes women’s snowboarding halfpipe and moguls and men’s super alpine skiing.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Post Midnight.
3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Overnight.
5.30 Today.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 8.05 The Movie Show. 8.40 Enigma. (1982, PG) 10.30 The Blue Caftan. (2022, M, Arabic) 12.45pm Falcon Lake. (2022, M) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.35 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 5.45 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 7.35 My Own Private Idaho. (1991, M) 9.30 Bare. (2015, MA15+) 11.10 Late Programs. 5.50am The Big Steal. (1990, PG)
THURSDAY, February 12
6.00
Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Secrets Of The
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)
8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)
9.20 In Flight. (Madlv)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Before We Die. (MA15+v, R) 11.40 Forest Of The Missing. (MA15+asv, R)
1.40 Silent Road. (Ma, R)
3.35 Celebrity Mastermind. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 MOVIE: Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 11.35 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Food That Built The World. 12.30pm WorldWatch. 1.00 The Billionaires Who Made Our World. 1.55 Bamay. 2.15 Mastermind Aust. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.05 Brassic. (Return) 12.05am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.10 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 10.10 Walkabout. (1971, M) 12.05pm My Own Private Idaho. (1991, M) 2.00 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 3.35 Enigma. (1982, PG)
5.30 55 Steps. (2017, PG) 7.35 St. Vincent. (2014, M) 9.30 The Mattachine Family. (2023, M) 11.20 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, M) 1.10am Late Programs. 5.45 55 Steps. (2017, PG)
7MATE (64)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) Harper’s guilt surges.
8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002, PGl, R) A New York socialite returns to Alabama to divorce the man she married and left behind years earlier. Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas.
10.50 To Be Advised.
12.30 Dare Me. (MA15+asv)
Addy gets closer to Colette.
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 MOVIE: A Love Yarn. (2021, PG) 11.30 Home In WA. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Inspector George Gently. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Home In
7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Night. Coverage includes men’s skeleton runs, snowboard cross, moguls qualifiers and finals and women’s super alpine skiing.
12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Post Midnight. Coverage includes men’s snowboard cross final and women’s 10km cross-country skiing and 5000m speed skating final.
3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Overnight. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
9GEM (82) 9GEM (82)
SVNS Series Perth. H’lights. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
TOUCH TENDER
By Sue STEPHENSON
The
q Mayor Adam Roberts joined local touch football players to announce Council’s bid for the Senior and Junior State cups. Photo: PMHC
