Port Macquarie News Of The Area 10 JULY 2026

NAIDOC Week - celebrating

By Pauline CAIN

NAIDOC

As the

Jikyha Dungay-Vitnell, from Wauchope High School, played didgeridoo.

Elder Uncle Bill O’Brien welcomed local mob and community members to Birpai country.

For five decades NAIDOC Week (National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee) has celebrated indigenous voices.

“NAIDOC is a time to recognise and celebrate the rich history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal CONTINUED Page 4

By Mellissa MEEHAN, AAP

This discovery was NSW’s first confirmed case of the H5N1 strain, and prompted poultry farms to be asked to consider housing their birds indoors. Agriculture minister Tara Moriarty called for calm. "I want to stress it’s the only one time that it has been found, we still have one bird that has tested positive," Ms Moriarty told reporters.

"There is no crisis, there is no need to panic."

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Bailey’s Law campaign gains momentum

By Rachael THORPE

IN December of 2022, 18-year-old Bailey Jones had his whole life ahead of him.

He had goals of becoming a welder, and was on the cusp of falling in love for the first time.

He lived with his mother and stepfather Caroline and Lawrence Micallef, with whom he enjoyed a very close bond.

That life of promise was destroyed in moments when he was fatally stabbed by a man who, at the time, was subject to an intensive corrections order (ICO) under home detention.

With the support of her husband, his mother has turned her immense grief over the loss of her son into a force for change, creating an ePetition which, to date, has more than 26,000 signatures.

It calls on the NSW State Government to emulate Queensland in implementing stricter requirements around ICOs, with the requested reforms named Bailey’s Law.

“I have heard from so many people who have been affected by this issue, and it has spurred me to turn the heartbreak into something positive,” Mrs Micallef said.

“I’m so proud of my son. He was an incredible human being.”

Mrs Micallef has a goal of 50,000 signatures on the petition, with the 20,000-signature threshold triggering a parliamentary debate.

She believes that tougher criteria around the granting of ICOs, more stringent monitoring of those subject to them, and increased restrictions are essential to stop more lives like Bailey’s being lost.

Over the years the Micallef family regularly enjoyed holidays in the Port Macquarie region with the area holding many happy memories for them.

After Bailey’s death they travelled up from the South Coast to paint a rock on the breakwall in his honour and were overwhelmed by the support they received from the local community.

The petition can be found at Sign ePetition | Parliament of NSW and closes on 26 August.

Local coffee at its Peak

By Sis HIGGINS

We have this Printed Edition available online for FREE, as well as archive editions.

THE Peak Coffee team has returned from the 2026 Golden Bean Australasia competition in Brisbane with a silver medal after showcasing its roasting expertise.

The competition, hailed as one of the the industry's largest coffee events, attracted more than 750 coffee entries from across Australia, with more than 100 coffee professionals judging coffees through a blind tasting process.

The event was hosted by Latitude Coffee Roasters, t

Port Macquarie’s Peak team joined roasters from across Asia Pacific, with the event recognising excellence across espresso, milk-based coffee and filter coffee categories.

Peak took silver in super automatic, which was a sub-category of filter coffee.

Golden Bean head bean Sean Edwards said the competition provided an opportunity for coffee roasters to benchmark their products against some of Australia's best.

"The Peak team has been working hard at this year's Golden Bean," Mr Edwards said.

"With over 750 entries, we are excited to share the top medaling coffees from the event with our coffee community."

Mr Edwards said the Golden Bean competition continued to bring together coffee professionals from across the industry while highlighting the quality and diversity of Australian coffee roasting.

The 2026 Overall Champion was

Milk, Yahava KoffeeWorks for Decaf and White Horse Coffee

Espresso Club also claimed the Small Chain Champion title, while Grinders Coffee secured its first Large Chain Champion award.

Gold medals were awarded across a range of categories, including One of Six Coffee Roasters for Espresso, Espresso Club for MilkBased Coffee, Latitude Coffee for Pour-Over Filter, Auro Specialty Coffee for Alternative

More than 100 Gold, Silver and Bronze medals were presented during the awards ceremony, with successful roasters now eligible to compete at the Golden Bean World Series in Fiji in February 2027.

The Peak team said it looked forward to sharing its medal-winning coffees with customers following the successful Brisbane competition.

Police honoured for dedicated service

By Sis HIGGINS

MEMBERS of the Mid North Coast Police District have been recognised for their dedication and years of service at the NSW Police Force Awards 2026.

The awards acknowledged officers and staff for their commitment to protecting the community, with long service medals, commendations and certificates presented across a range of categories.

State Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer MP said the awards reflected the professionalism and commitment shown by police across the district.

“The awards are more than a celebration of individual achievement; they reflect a policing family built on dedication, professionalism and quiet courage,” Mr Dwyer said.

He said sworn and unsworn members worked together every day to help keep local communities safe.

“Whether responding to emergencies, supporting victims of crime or confronting dangerous offenders, they show compassion, resilience and strength in equal measure,” he said.

Mr Dwyer also acknowledged the challenges faced by police officers throughout their careers.

“Officers are called into people's darkest moments.

“They attend traumatic incidents, deliver devastating news and work tirelessly, sometimes over many years, to achieve justice.

“They witness both the best and the worst of humanity, and yet they continue to serve with integrity.”

Mr Dwyer recognised the leadership of Mid North Coast Police District Commander Superintendent Shane Cribb and senior officers for guiding and supporting their teams.

He also thanked the families of police officers, saying their support helped officers remain resilient throughout demanding careers.

Among those recognised were former Sergeant Crystal Manusu, who received the National Police Service Medal, Constable Patrick Leary, who received the National Medal for 15 years of service, and Sergeant Elisha Campbell, Sergeant Matthew

Horsington and Senior Constable Noelene Little, who each received the National Medal First Clasp for 25 years of service.

Constable John Casey received the National Medal Second Clasp and the NSW Police Medal Fifth Clasp for 35 years of service.

Mr Dwyer said every recipient represented “the very best of policing in our region” and thanked all officers and staff for their “dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to our community”.

will be celebrating 40 years since becoming a congregation on Sunday 2nd August at 13 Kemp St beginning from 9am. ST

Honouring 50 years of strength

FROM Page 1

and Torres Strait Islander people,” said Tamika Edwards.

“It is an opportunity for all Australians to come together, to learn, to listen and to connect with First Nations’ cultures.

“2026 marks a powerful milestone - 50 years of deadly.

“This theme is both a

reflection and a declaration, recognising the strength it has taken to reach this milestone.”

Ms Edwards paid tribute to those who built the movement, elders who stood firm, organisers who made space, artists who turned resistance into expression, and members of the community who keep

showing up year after year.

She also spoke about the future.

“It is also about the next 50 years - the young ones growing up proud, the return of language, the return to country; the fight for justice continuing with new tools, new voices, and the same fire.

“This is our story, this is

our celebration, this is our future.”

Samantha McKinnon introduced the Yapun Yapun girls from Wauchope, who performed a dance of cleansing.

”These girls are here today, dancing for their ancestors and also for their great grandbabies who will come after them.

“They are dancing to pay respect to our beautiful

dungang (Birpai word for river), which keeps us alive.”

“That’s what the legacy is all about - these beautiful

girls stepping up, showing up, and continuing our culture,” said Aunty Rhonda Radley.

Community groups unite to improve koala habitat

By Rachael THORPE

MORE than 300 koala food and shelter trees have been planted during a community day aimed at creating better habitat for koalas and other native wildlife.

Hastings Landcare joined The Nature School; National Parks and Wildlife Service; Koala Conservation Australia; the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water; and community volunteers to plant grey gum, tallowwood, forest red gum and a range of understorey species at a restoration site near Port Macquarie.

The site, purchased for long-term conservation, has been regenerating naturally over the past 18 months.

The latest planting will strengthen the existing vegetation, improve habitat connectivity and provide more food and shelter for koalas into the future.

Koala Conservation Australia Conservation

Projects Officer Louise Hoade said the project was already showing encouraging signs.

"During the site preparation stage, we were excited to see a koala right next to our planting site and we would expect our koalas to be able to use the trees within six to 10 years," she said.

National Parks and Wildlife Service's Libby Jude said the planting would make a significant difference.

"This planting will turn a very narrow wildlife corridor into a robust habitat where koalas can live and travel safely through," she said.

Hastings Landcare representative Stephen Allwood said partnerships like this were vital to restoring koala habitat.

"When schools, conservation organisations and government partners work together on the ground, we can make a real difference for the future of koala habitat in our region," he said.

For students from The

also an opportunity to put classroom learning into practice.

Teacher Jess Agnello said taking part in the planting helped students understand how they could make a

positive difference to the environment.

"For our students, being part of this planting day was a powerful way to connect learning with realworld action. It gave them

the chance to care for the environment in a hands-on way," she said.

"The site is also on the way to school so students can watch the trees grow over time."

The planting was supported through the NSW Government's NSW Koala Strategy and is expected to strengthen the wildlife corridor as the trees mature over the coming years.

‘There is no crisis, there is no need to panic’: Minister

FROM Page 1

Shoppers are also being urged to continue buying poultry and eggs as normal.

The deadly strain was confirmed in a migratory bird in NSW, making it Australia's sixth confirmed case after five others were

discovered in WA and SA.

The strain was first detected on the Australian mainland on June 14 in a brown skua found in Esperance, on WA's south coast.

NSW's chief veterinary officer Jo Coombe said thousands of department

staff, including 500 specially trained officers, have been deployed to bolster surveillance along the coastline.

"The reality is that we've got one bird, a wild bird, that has tested positive for H5N1 bird flu," she said on Sunday.

"We know that bird is a

bird that usually wouldn't land in Australia and it's ... landed in Australia because it's been sick."

Invasive Species Council policy director Carol Booth warned surveillance won't protect Australian wildlife if the disease reaches native species.

She urged the federal government to fund a $200 million resilience package to accelerate feral predator control, restore habitat, and protect breeding sites.

'This killer disease has been wiping out millions of birds around the world. The impact this could

have on Australia's native birds and sea mammals as it continues to spread is frightening," Dr Booth told AAP.

Until June, Australia had been the only continent free of the highly contagious virus, which has wiped out millions of birds worldwide and also killed mammals.

Rural spotlight on voluntary assisted dying

By Sis HIGGINS

PORT

Macquarie

nursing researchers have helped produce the first comprehensive review of how people living in rural and remote communities access voluntary assisted dying (VAD), highlighting barriers that continue to affect end-of-life care.

The research was conducted by four academics from Charles Sturt University's School of Nursing, Paramedicine and Healthcare Sciences based at the University's Port Macquarie and Dubbo campuses.

Their paper, “Implementing assisted dying in rural and remote Australia and comparable jurisdictions: A scoping review”, has been published in the journal Death Studies.

“This work matters because voluntary assisted dying is now legislated across all Australian states and the Australian Capital Territory, except the Northern Territory, yet rural and remote communities continue to face disproportionate challenges in accessing safe, timely and compassionate care,” lead author Melissa Hanson said.

“Many of the research articles reviewed call for legislative amendments that clarify legal uncertainties, align state and federal laws, and remove barriers, such as those relating to telehealth that impede equitable access for patients, particularly those in rural and remote areas.

“Innovative models such as nurse practitioner inclusion, care navigation

and culturally safe outreach offer potential solutions.”

According to Go Gentle Australia, VAD accounts for between one and three per cent of all deaths in Australia each year.

Most people who choose VAD are aged between 70 and 79 years, with cancer the most common reason for requesting the service.

The review examined peer-reviewed research and reports from Australia and comparable jurisdictions, identifying five key themes affecting VAD implementation in rural areas.

Ms Hanson said the findings show that access is influenced by more than eligibility.

“Access is shaped by geography, culture, infrastructure and the relational dynamics that

define small communities,” she said. “Families and clinicians alike carry disproportionate burdens, navigating grief, stigma and systemic barriers in pursuit

of compassionate choice.

“To honour the intent of assisted dying legislation, reforms must go beyond legal clarification.

“The reforms must

invest in culturally safe care, telehealth access, expanded provider roles and adapted bereavement support.”

q Voluntary assisted dying accounts for between one and three per cent of all deaths in Australia. Photo: news.csu.edu.au/latest-news.

Council unveils First Nations boat design

PORT Macquarie Hastings Council has unveiled a First Nations design on one of its environmental monitoring boats, marking another step in the development of its Sea Country Action Plan with the Birpai community.

The unveiling took place at Fisherman's Wharf in Port Macquarie, where Mayor Adam Roberts joined Biripi artist Jacinta Janik and Council staff to launch the vessel.

Mayor Roberts said the unveiling recognised both the region's waterways and Birpai culture.

“Thank you to Jacinta for her design, which will now be seen in motion, moving up and down our waterways as our staff continue to do their work in maintaining our waterways and coastline,” he said.

“This is a great opportunity to combine PMHC's cultural and environmental priorities.

“Our boats cover more than 200km of estuary between the Hastings River, Camden Haven, Lake Cathie and Lake Innes, inspecting

30 priority erosion sites each quarter by boat and drone survey.”

The boat, which is used to monitor more than 200 kilometres of coastline and estuaries across the region, now carries Ms Janik's artwork.

Ms Janik was selected through a Council competition held last year to create the artwork.

She said the design reflects memories of growing up on the Mid North Coast.

“Growing up by the beach, I spent hours walking the shoreline with my family and collecting shells.

“These experiences fostered a deep connection to Country which continues to influence and inspire my artworks, such as this one,” she said.

“My art captures the natural patterns and rhythms of Country – flowing lines, organic forms and earthy tones that speak to harmony, movement and life.”

Council said the design will also become the identity of its Sea Country Action Plan, which is being developed

with the Birpai community.

The plan aims to support marine ecosystems, include Birpai knowledge in the management of Sea Country and strengthen partnerships between Local Aboriginal Land Councils, government agencies and community members.

Council Coordinator Coast and Estuaries Ben

Foster said the 4.5-metre Stacer Proline boat was chosen because it can access shallow waterways while also travelling long distances across local estuaries.

“It took us a bit of research to find the right vessel for our needs and one of the advantages is that it has a front deck for launching drones which help with our

environmental surveys,” he said.

The boat is used throughout the year to monitor estuary health, inspect erosion sites and carry out biosecurity work along waterways across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

Currently PMHC’s Coastal Management Plan (CMP) is

out for community feedback, both online and in-person sessions in Port Macquarie, Laurieton, Wauchope and Bonny Hills until 15 July.

Stage 3 and 4 of the CMP focuses on collaborating with the community, stakeholders and government agencies to explore potential management options, assess risks and opportunities.

Measles alert issued for Port Macquarie

PORT Macquarie residents are being urged to remain alert for symptoms of measles after a confirmed case was identified in the community.

Mid North Coast Local Health District has advised that the person acquired the infection locally after coming into contact with another confirmed case.

People who attended the Port Macquarie Base Hospital Emergency

Department between 2.00am and 10.45am on 28 June are being asked to monitor for symptoms over the next 18 days, although the location no longer poses an ongoing risk.

North Coast Population and Public Health Regional Director Dr Valerie Delpech said anyone who develops symptoms after visiting an exposure site should seek medical advice while taking steps to protect others.

“If symptoms develop and you’ve been at one of the locations at the time listed on the website, see your doctor or health service, including an emergency department,” Dr Delpech said.

“Call ahead to let them know that you may have come into contact with measles so you don't spend time in waiting rooms with other patients.”

Dr Delpech said early

symptoms include fever, sore eyes, a runny nose and a cough, followed several days later by a red, blotchy rash that usually begins on the face before spreading across the body.

“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it's important for people who visited these locations to look out for symptoms for this period,” she said.

There have been

53 confirmed measles cases across NSW since 1 January 2026.

Health authorities are also reminding the community to ensure their vaccinations are up to date, with the measlesmumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine providing effective protection against the disease.

Anyone born after 1965 should have received two doses of the MMR

vaccine, particularly before travelling overseas where measles outbreaks are occurring in several parts of the world.

People who are pregnant, have weakened immune systems or have an infant who may have been exposed within the past six days should contact their local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 for advice.

Discrimination rises against LGBTQ+ people in regional Australia

By Sis HIGGINS

REGIONAL Australians who identify as LGBTQ+ are reporting growing levels of discrimination, with new research led by Charles Sturt University (CSU) academics revealing many people still do not feel safe being themselves in country communities.

Professor Suzanne McLaren, from CSU's School of Psychology in Port Macquarie, co-led the second Regional Rainbow Survey alongside Associate Professor Clifford Lewis from the University's School of Business in Bathurst.

The survey, completed by 117 LGBTQ+ adults living in rural and regional Australia, found more than 40 per cent of respondents had experienced discrimination from strangers over the past 12 months, while around one quarter reported discrimination at work or from family and friends.

The findings also revealed participants had noticed an increase in hate directed towards LGBTQ+ people, particularly trans women.

Fifteen percent of respondents said they had

experienced discrimination while accessing physical healthcare, while 16 per cent reported a need for greater access to gender-affirming healthcare services and more knowledgeable general practitioners.

Associate Professor Lewis said the results highlighted the continuing

challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people outside metropolitan areas.

“LGBTQ+ people in rural or regional Australia still report worse mental health compared to those in our cities,” he said.

“One in three with a diverse sexual orientation, and two in five with a diverse

q LGBTQ+ adults living in rural and regional Australia, found more than 40 percent of respondents had experienced discrimination. Photo: news.csu.edu.au.

gender identity, are not out to some degree.

“This speaks to the fear LGBTQ+ people in regional communities live with.”

Released during Pride Month, the research also points to the importance of community allies in improving wellbeing and inclusion.

“We need more allies in rural and regional towns,”

Associate Professor Lewis said.

“Allyship can happen in all the small thingslike reporting anti-trans hate speech on social media, reminding your LGBTQ+ friends, family and neighbours that you

love them, and calling out discrimination when you see it.”

The researchers hope the ongoing Regional Rainbow Survey will build evidence to inform future government policies, improve access to services and help create safer, more inclusive communities across regional Australia.

Susannah Glenn swaps the newsroom for page-turning thrills

By Sis HIGGINS

FORMER Kempsey journalist Susannah Glenn has come full circle, returning to the Mid North Coast that shaped her life and career as the setting for her gripping second psychological thriller, ‘Without A Trace’.

After spending 30 years working in journalism and corporate communications, Ms Glenn decided it was time to pursue a lifelong dream of becoming a published novelist.

Growing up in Kempsey before studying communications in Newcastle, she balanced a demanding career with raising two children

as a single mother.

“When the kids finished school and left home for university, and I was made redundant from a job I loved at around the same time, I decided the time was now or never to embark on the career of my dreamsbecoming a published author of psychological thriller novels,” Ms Glenn said.

She immersed herself in online writing courses and discovered that novel writing was vastly different from journalism.

“I wrote like mad, soaking up as much information as I could find about how to write a novel.,” she said.

That dedication paid off when her

first manuscript was picked up from the publisher’s unsolicited submissions pile, earning her a two-book publishing contract.

Her latest novel, ‘Without A Trace’, took around two years to write and is set between Sydney and a fictional Mid North Coast town inspired by the region she calls home.

“The book was inspired by its colourful array of characters, as well as the stunning surrounds of the place I call home – the Mid North Coast of NSW,” she said.

Ms Glenn said she wanted readers to question how well they really knew the people closest to them.

“History is full of people who are not all they seem,” she said.

She also explores the importance of

trusting intuition.

“If something doesn’t feel right - about a person, a place or a situation - it usually isn’t.

“Yet too often we try to explain away our feelings, or ignore them in order to be polite, or nice.

“And sometimes, the consequences are deadly.”

Readers will have several opportunities to meet Ms Glenn during her Mid North Coast book tour, including an in-store signing at Big W Kempsey on 29 July, the official regional launch at Gladstone Heritage Hotel on 9 August, and appearances at Kempsey, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Taree, Gloucester, Forster and Harrington libraries throughout August and October.

Help to get future plans off the drawing board

By Bill HARROW

LOCAL community-based businesses with plans for the future may be able to secure a $5000 Community Design Grant to help get their project off the drawing board.

Port Macquarie design business Collins W Collins is offering the grant, which may include concept design, feasibility planning, and assistance with Council processes around application preparation and submission.

The idea of the grant came about following a proposal from the firm’s administration manager, Danielle Innes.

“Community drives design and design drives community,” Danielle said.

This inaugural grant is expected to become an annual event.

Collins W Collins, which was established in 2003, has more than 20 years of design experience. It has expertise in working with community groups such as sporting clubs and organisations.

The new grant is considered a structured way to give back to the community.

“No project is too large or too small for us to consider,” said Shannon Collins, director of Collins W Collins.

“The grant is designed to help the successful applicant overcome challenges that may prevent projects moving forward.”

Applications are now open at the Collins W Collins web page with information available on their social media pages. Further information is available by emailing them at design@collinswcollins.com.au. Applications close on 1 August 2026.

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Plastic Free July pledge calls for simple changes

THOUSANDS of Australians are being encouraged to make one simple change this month by taking the Plastic Free July pledge.

Councils along the east coast of New South Wales are supporting the global campaign, encouraging residents to refuse just one unnecessary plastic item during July and help reduce plastic waste in their communities.

The Plastic Free July pledge invites individuals, families, schools, workplaces and community groups to choose one plastic item to avoid, whether it is single-use coffee cups, plastic shopping bags, drink bottles or heavily

packaged produce.

A Port Macquarie-Hasting Council spokesperson said on Facebook, “This week, more than 100 pledges were made at our Plastic Free July popups across Port Macquarie and Wauchope.

“Each pledge starts with one simple swap, and when more people get involved, those small changes can create a powerful local impact.

“You don’t need to change everything overnight. Choose one swap that fits into your everyday routine and can become a lasting habit beyond July.

“Plastic Free July is about progress, not perfection.

Every small change helps reduce plastic waste.”

More than 4,400 people have already signed the Plastic Free July pledge, demonstrating how small individual actions can contribute to reducing plastic pollution.

While many people focus on items such as shopping bags and takeaway containers, campaign organisers are also drawing attention to less obvious plastics, including cigarette filters, which are made from cellulose acetate, a form of plastic that can persist in the environment for years.

Discarded cigarette butts remain one of the

most commonly littered items worldwide, breaking down into microplastics and releasing harmful chemicals into waterways and natural environments.

Council encourages the community to get involved in the Plastic Free July pledge.

Plastic Free July organisers say every item refused helps reduce waste and encourages longer-term changes in consumer habits.

The campaign aims to

Bands entertain lunchtime crowds

By Pauline CAIN

St Agnes’ Parish Secondary Schools (SAPSS) showcased a number of bands and ensembles, playing some familiar toetapping tunes as well as some more contemporary and improvised pieces.

Robert Denham, SAPSS music ensembles manager, welcomed the midday crowd and thanked them for supporting students and staff.

The jazz ensemble was a crowd favourite, with music teacher Zachary Horne encouraging the crowd to applaud each of the jazz soloists, who were improvising.

"It was a great opportunity for both St Joseph's Regional College and

MacKillop College to combine and make music together,” music teacher Josh Salter.

“We love sharing what we do in our co-curricular music programs with the wider community, and it is a great opportunity for students to hone their performance skills.”

show that choosing to refuse just one plastic item each day can collectively make a significant difference towards a cleaner environment and a plastic-free future.

This is the second in the series of free lunchtime concerts by SAPSS student musicians.

There will be further opportunities throughout the year for the local community to see students performing both onsite at MacKillop and St Joseph’s Regional Colleges, as well as some more lunchtime concerts at The Glasshouse.

Of The Area News Reader Survey

Dear NOTA reader,

Dear NOTA reader,

Of The Area News Reader Survey

Did you know we publish across eight different areas?

Did you know we publish across eight different areas?

As a family-owned, independent newspaper celebrating 12 years in publication, we’re proud to serve our communities with local news, stories, and information that matter most.

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To help us continue improving and delivering the content you value, we’d love to hear from you. Your feedback will help shape the future of our publications and ensure we’re meeting the needs and interests of our readers.

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Please take a few moments to complete our reader survey and go in the draw to win one of 5 $100 gift vouchers to spend at any of our current advertisers businesses.

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Giant petrel found near Hawks Nest tests positive for deadly H5N1 bird flu

By Melissa MEEHAN, AAP

AUTHORITIES insist there's no bird flu crisis and no need to panic, despite a growing number of birds testing positive to the deadly virus along the Australian coastline, including a giant petrel at Hawks Nest on the Mid North Coast.

This discovery was NSW’s first confirmed case of the H5N1 strain, and prompted poultry farms to be asked to consider housing their birds indoors.

Agriculture minister Tara Moriarty called for calm.

"I want to stress it’s the only one time that it has been found, we still have one bird that has tested positive," Ms Moriarty told reporters.

"There is no crisis, there

is no need to panic."

Shoppers are also being urged to continue buying poultry and eggs as normal.

The deadly strain was confirmed in a migratory bird in NSW, making it Australia's sixth confirmed case after five others were discovered in WA and SA.

The strain was first detected on the Australian mainland on June 14 in a brown skua found in Esperance, on WA's south coast.

NSW's chief veterinary officer Jo Coombe said thousands of department staff, including 500 specially trained officers, have been deployed to bolster surveillance along the coastline.

"The reality is that we've

got one bird, a wild bird, that has tested positive for H5N1 bird flu," she said on Sunday.

"We know that bird is a bird that usually wouldn't land in Australia and it's ... landed in Australia because it's been sick."

Invasive Species Council policy director Carol Booth warned surveillance won't protect Australian wildlife if the disease reaches native species.

She urged the federal government to fund a $200 million resilience package to accelerate feral predator control, restore habitat, and protect breeding sites.

'This killer disease has been wiping out millions of birds around the world. The impact this could have on Australia's native birds and

sea mammals as it continues to spread is frightening," Dr Booth told AAP.

Until June, Australia had been the only continent free

of the highly contagious virus, which has wiped out millions of birds worldwide and also killed mammals.

The public has been urged

to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife and report any finds to an emergency hotline, as well as recording locations and taking photos.

Kendall rescue specialist bound for Tonga

By Rachael THORPE

AT only 35 years of age, Kendall resident Alli Thorning-McGoldrick has already built a life where she is living her out her lifetime goals.

As a humanitarian aid worker and member of the RFS’s aviation rescue team, her skill set sees her deployed to natural and man-made disaster zones in Australia and overseas.

Her next assignment has her joining the Rotary Vocational Training Team [VTT] as part of a group of

seven specialists across NSW who were selected from the RFS, Marine Rescue, SLSC, Fire & Rescue, SES, Volunteer Rescue Australia and Ambulance, who will spend a month in the Kingdom of Tonga.

Ms Thorning-McGoldrick joined the RFS.

“I just wanted to help people,” she said.

“I’m a practica,l hands-on person so I joined and I love it.

“Four weeks in Tonga will allow us enough time to be embedded locally, to get to know people and to make a difference.”

New Justice of the Peace

By Luke HADFIELD

NSW is home to approximately 64,000 people who volunteer their time to carry out duties as a Justice of the Peace, or JP.

The early origins of the role can be traced back to the reign of King Richard I in 1195 who commissioned knights to preserve the peace and uphold the law across his territories.

Upon arrival of the first fleet in 1788, under then Governor Arthur Phillip, JPs were responsible for maintaining law and order via judicial, policing and administrative duties, which included overseeing convicts.

As society became more complex, requiring professional legal expertise, the JP position evolved to become the honorary community role that exists today.

Port Macquarie resident Barry Hacker coordinates five JP desks under the NSW Justice of the Peace Organisation.

He has been carrying out JP duties since 1974, and the activity has kept him busy since his wife passed away last year.

“I enjoy doing it, it’s a good interest and really rewarding.,” Mr Hacker said.

“During COVID I was one of the few JPs still operating. I set up a long table at my front door. I had a screen up to protect everyone whilst distancing,” he said.

Rachael Thorpe, who lives in Dunbogan, is acting Secretary of Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce and a recently appointed JP.

“I’m an immigrant and I believe that brings an obligation to give back to the country that has given me a great life,” Ms Thorpe said.

“Being a JP aligns with

Her role when deployed overseas as an aid worker sees her coordinating within communities and liaising with local authorities to provide non-food aid, predominantly in post-disaster relief.

“My aviation rescue work involves winching down from a helicopter to rescue people who are lost or trapped,” she said.

“It’s a demanding role and I couldn’t do what I do without the support of my very closeknit family.”

She combines her work with studies for a Masters in Humanitarianism.

Travel expenses, food and accommodation in Tonga are being funded by Rotary.

my community service goals, which I pursue via my membership of the Rotary Club of Laurieton and as a disability advocate.

“As a full-time wheelchair user, representation is important; this allows

society to see that a disability doesn’t prevent you from participating in all aspects of life.”

The primary roles of a JP are to witness a person making a statutory declaration or affidavit, and

to certify copies of original documents.

JPs are not permitted to unreasonably refuse to provide JP services, charge you a fee or accept a gift for providing JP services, assist or write in a statutory

declaration or affidavit, nor provide you with legal advice.

In NSW JPs cannot certify photos unless they have known the person in the photograph for a minimum of 12 months.

New board chair for MNC Health District

MID North Coast Local Health District has welcomed Brendan Walsh as its new Board Chair.

Mr Walsh brings extensive experience in health and human services, governance, executive leadership and strategy.

With a career spanning senior executive, board chair and governance advisory roles across community health, disability, aged care and not for profit organisations, Mr Walsh is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), holds a Master of Business Administration from Melbourne Business School, Diploma of Corporate Governance (AICD) and has completed executive governance programs through Harvard Business School.

Mr Walsh has a strong track record in organisational transformation, sustainability and service improvement and is widely regarded for his considered, collaborative approach to governance. His depth of experience, strong understanding of health systems and commitment to accountable, high quality public services will be an asset to the Board and the District.

MNCLHD Chief Executive Jill Wong said Mr Walsh’s appointment comes at a significant time of opportunity for the District.

“Brendan’s leadership and experience will support our continued focus on delivering safe, high-quality healthcare and improving outcomes for communities across the Mid North Coast,”

Ms Wong said.

Ms Wong thanked Deputy Board Chair the Hon Luke Hartsuyker for serving as interim Board Chair this year after Peter Treseder AO concluded his tenure in late 2025.

“I sincerely thank Luke for his outstanding leadership during this transition period. His stewardship of the Board has provided stability and continuity, and his contribution is greatly appreciated,” Ms Wong said.

Mr Walsh said he was honoured to take on the role and looked forward to working with the Board, staff and community.

“I am proud to be supporting the great work already happening right across the District. We are delivering high-quality and accessible healthcare.

With my talented Board colleagues, we will further strengthen the governance so we can help meet the needs of the Mid North Coast community, now and into the future,” Mr Walsh said.

“After moving to Coffs Harbour several years ago, I am thrilled to add my experience and leadership skills to build on the good governance offered by my Board colleagues.

“I had the opportunity to attend the MNCLHD Excellence Awards earlier this month and was truly impressed by the innovation, dedication and excellence demonstrated by staff through the programs and services they lead and deliver. I look forward to hearing and sharing more of these inspiring stories in the future."

The sound of progress

By Rachael THORPE

ROSE Smith has been hearing the noise of tradies Monday to Friday for months and wouldn’t have it any other way; in fact, she refers to it as the sound of progress.

She has been living at Experience Laurieton Residential Park, formerly known as Christmas Cove, for the last 15 years and can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Under new ownership the park has been completely revitalised.

Camden Haven SES shows everyone has a role to play

By Rachael THORPE

CAMDEN Haven SES unit commander Carolyn Dobson is passionate about educating the community and reminding everyone that they have a role to play.

A recent initiative by the unit involved students who were engaged in distance education receiving training in how the SES uses radios and how to utilise a rescue mule.

Ms Dobson was full of praise for the students.

“We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusion, and programs like this reinforce our belief that there is a role for everyone,” Ms Dobson said.

“This activity is a first for the SES in NSW; we wanted to open the world up to them and show them all the things they can do.”

The students will return next month to learn about

flood rescue, with the aim of ensuring they are not left behind in an emergency.

In a busy week for the Camden Haven unit, they supported the Rotary Club of Laurieton by shifting 10,000 books for the Club’s annual winter book sale, and held a muster evening where volunteers were celebrated for passing their field core skills course.

Several members were presented with epaulettes reflecting their experience and skill set, vehicles and equipment were checked, a stocktake was carried out and the unit was cleaned.

“Since the extensive upgrades I feel extremely safe,” Ms Smith said.

“We have a great variety of permanent residents here now, and we enjoy having social catch-ups.

“It is comforting knowing that there are people around if I need a hand, and it has been great to see the local community so excited about this transformation.”

Day to day operations of the park are overseen by highly regarded site manager Damian Urbanica, who has a hands-on approach as the park transitions.

“In 15 years of park management these residents are the nicest people that I have ever dealt with,” Mr Urbanica said.

“Our vision is to build a beautiful, safe, and affordable community for people over 55 years, and we are well on the way to achieving that.”

The park has undergone significant improvement with upgrades to infrastructure including roads, streetlights, stormwater, firefighting equipment, electrical distribution and plumbing. Future works will focus on increasing the accessibility of common areas.

Structures in poor condition have been demolished, and others have been renovated to a high standard.

Brand new park homes are also being installed with options to add accessibility features.

PCYC prepares for Nations of Origin

By Sis HIGGINS

PCYC NSW’s Nations of Origin program will bring together almost 900 young people from across the State this month, with Port Macquarie participants preparing to represent their community in a program that combines sport with cultural education.

The annual event returns for its 12th year from 13 July to 16 July, with 896 young people aged 14 to 16 representing 21 First Nations.

Rugby league, basketball, netball and gymnastics competitions will be held at PCYC Hawkesbury and Whalan Reserve.

Held following NAIDOC Week, the program aligns with this year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly”, highlighting the strength of First Nations communities while building cultural pride through sport.

PCYC Port Macquarie Club Manager Zac Campbell said 46 young people from the club would travel to Sydney to compete across six teams.

“I am beyond proud to be able to take 46 young people to Sydney to compete in the annual Nations of Origin tournament in Sydney,” Mr Campbell said.

“We have two male 3v3 basketball teams, two rugby league teams (male and female), one mixed netball team, and one female gymnastics squad.

“The young people have been training the past couple months and are now ready to head to the tournament to showcase their skills and learn more about culture, reconciliation, and respect.”

Nations of Origin is more than a sporting competition, with participants taking part in a 12-month program before the tournament.

For many young people from regional communities such as Port Macquarie, the event also provides an opportunity to travel to Sydney and compete at a major sporting carnival that may otherwise be out of reach.

Player Jax Gillard, one of the

competitors, said the tournament was also about bringing communities together.

“I am not Aboriginal myself, but I am proud to represent Birpai Nation and come together for reconciliation,” Jax said.

Throughout the year, young people work alongside PCYC staff, volunteers and local Elders, participating in cultural activities including Aboriginal art, traditional dance and bush tucker workshops while developing leadership and teamwork skills.

The program also encourages positive engagement outside sport.

To be eligible, every team must include a 70-30 balance of First Nations and non-First Nations participants.

Players must also maintain more than 80 per cent school attendance and have no negative interactions with NSW Police.

Organisers say these expectations have helped many participants improve their school attendance and educational

outcomes as they work towards earning selection for the tournament.

The Nations of Origin program continues to use sport as a pathway

to promote education, cultural identity and positive community engagement for young people across New South Wales.

Set sail for calmer seas and great fishing

By Kate SHELTON

AFTER a week of poor weather, anglers will be hoping to make the most of a much-improved forecast this weekend.

Conditions are expected to be favourable for both estuary and offshore fishing, although those heading out to sea should remain vigilant with the annual whale migration well under way.

q Members of the Lake Cathie Fishing Club committee present a cheque for $6,200 to Marine Rescue Camden Haven following the club's successful Charity Fish Auction. A second cheque for $6,200 was also presented to the Lake Cathie Rural Fire Service, with the event raising funds to support both local volunteer organisations.

A number of near misses have already been reported, with boats narrowly avoiding collisions with whales, so keeping a careful lookout at all times is essential, particularly when travelling at speed during darker hours.

The southern areas of our region have produced some quality fishing. Drummer have been the standout around Crowdy, while both rock and offshore anglers have also been finding success on mulloway.

Beach fishers are having a lot of fun catching Australian salmon that are moving through, with small metal lures proving hard for these powerful fish to resist.

A few tailor have been mixed in with the salmon, although numbers remain patchy.

North Haven Beach and Rainbow

Beach are holding good numbers of bream, along with the occasional flathead.

For those chasing mulloway, Lake Cathie continues to be the most consistent location.

As the new moon approaches, anglers fishing the inshore reefs should find snapper becoming more active, with soft plastics and vibes accounting for some quality fish.

Further north in the Hastings River, luderick fishing has slowed slightly, although the breakwalls are still worth a visit using green weed or cabbage.

Bream fishing has improved noticeably, with spots around Pelican Island producing some excellent fish on prawns and worms.

Flathead remain a reliable option throughout the system.

We all want a slice of the good

life

Along the beaches and headlands, Point Plomer and Queens have been producing some solid tailor, while the Lighthouse has been rewarding anglers with both tailor and bream, particularly during the early morning bite.

Offshore anglers are eagerly awaiting Saturday's favourable conditions.

Kingfish numbers continue to build, with knife jigs proving to be the most effective technique.

However, leatherjackets have arrived in force and are making life difficult on the deeper reefs by cutting off expensive jigs.

Snapper remain in good numbers, with anglers casting soft plastics and other lures enjoying the best results, particularly on larger fish.

of who they vote for, in any meaningful way.

We all want a slice of the good life.

DEAR News Of The Area,

PEOPLE are asking themselves: why work in an economy that’s not working for me?

The cost of basic services - food, housing, electricity, healthcare, childcare, educationhas all gone up.

Yet our pay packet remains the same! All after the era of privatisation when we were promised efficiency and lower prices because the market does it better. But does it?

household to pay off over 30 years.

Think about the fact that young people, on average, will spend a decade saving for a deposit on a house that will cost ten times their salary and require a two-income

Voting is the only way

DEAR News Of The Area,

LAST week’s letter from Peter Williams (‘Australia is headed in the wrong direction’, NOTA, 3/7/26) is right.

Pull your head out of the sand and really look at our living standards, high everything.

The pollies are only in the game (and it is a game to them) for themselves, not the people. It is time for the people to take our future back next time at the Ballot Box. Read Peter’s letter. Well said Peter.

Regards, Guy Vidler.

A generation ago, you could go to university for free and an average house cost you three times your wages. You were also probably paying it off on one person’s salary.

This generation will be the first in history to be worse off than their parents. Some folks still have it good.

Our mate Gina Rinehart has it so good, she owns the media, politicians and now wants to give our land away to foreign governments.

I don’t think someone so wealthy should be able to influence politics in this way.

Most people don’t think they can change outcomes, regardless

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WRITE in response to Pat Conaghan’s glossy newsletter and comments about poor aged residents who are sacrificing other essentials in order to be able to afford the private health cover they vitally need. My suggestion is: use your

Medicare card like the thousands of other aged pensioners do, and leave those expensive private health insurance companies who make profit from your health coverage.

Regards, Beverley Sharpe.

I invite everyone, no matter how you align politically, to take part in The Good Life Survey.

Have your say at - greeninstitute. org.au/goodlife/.

Together, we can make life better for everyone!

Regards, Renee Gerlach.

Advertising within the Port Macquarie News Of The Area reaches your local customers.

Connect with them from the next edition.

Print media has never been so affordable for your business. Call Chan now 0431 232 820 or email chan@newsofthearea.com.au

Hypothetical, Legal Eye

By Manny WOOD

Equal isn't always fair

HANS dies at 82, leaving behind his wife of 22 years, Greta, his daughter from a previous marriage, Anna, and a Will that, at first glance, seemed perfectly sensible.

Hans appointed Greta and Anna as executors and, aside from a gift to a local charity, directed the family home and the balance of his estate be sold, with the proceeds divided equally between them.

The house was also home to Hans’ pride and joy, a century-old grand piano occupying almost half the living room. According to Hans, it had survived two world wars, two moves, and one enthusiastic removalist armed with a crowbar. One thing was beyond dispute; nobody was moving the piano. Not in theory, not in practice, not under any interpretation of the Will.

For Greta, complying with the Will meant more than selling a house. She had lived in the property for over a decade and expected to remain there.

Now 73 and retired, she faced leaving the property she had been in for more than 15 years.

“Half the estate” sounded generous on paper, but provided limited security in a property market where suitable replacement housing was increasingly difficult to secure.

Anna understood her father’s wishes but recognised Greta’s predicament. An equal division of the estate would give Greta half its value, but not the security of a roof over her head.

Greta commenced proceedings seeking further provision from Hans’ estate.

Before the hearing, the parties agreed Greta would receive a 75 per cent interest in the home together with a 10-year right to reside, and Anna the remaining 25 per cent interest and balance of the estate.

The Court approved the compromise, allowing Greta to remain in the home for the next 10 years.

As a result, the family never discovered whether Hans’ century-old grand piano could have survived another move, or whether the removalist ever actually needed the crowbar.

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. Note: This fictional column is not legal advice.

OPINION & LETTERS

Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Verse of the week

The Write Direction

By John BLACKBOURN

Political reality: merger or madness

OUR political system seems to have only one objective. That is to gain power then hang onto it. It could just be the ego of the players but the financial rewards available must have something to do with the result as well.

The benefits include a respectable salary, good expense allowances, free vehicle and running costs plus office with

staff, all paid for including the best unfunded superannuation scheme available to any occupation.

What seems to be missing with politicians’ thought processes is the fact that they are elected to represent the views and aspirations of the residents within their electorate but tend only to say or deliver their own views plus the overall direction of the party of their choice.

The people are simply forgotten but I concede that sometimes what the majority of their electorate wants is difficult to ascertain and may not fit their party’s plan.

Getting into power of government is their primary objective as the personal rewards for the senior players are what their game is all about.

Hence the issue becomes, how do we get into government for political power?

Federally, with the ALP holding such a commanding seat majority over all the other parties and independents, plus the fact that

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

A friend's son has asked me to write a personal reference for him as he is going to court.

I hardly know the kid and what I do know isn't very positive.

I think I have only been asked because I have a good standing in the community.

How do I tactfully get out of this situation?

Rhiannon G.

Dear Rhiannon,

You most certainly shouldn't write a reference for a person you don't know very well.

My advice to you is that what is said in person is hearsay, but anything you put down on paper could one day be held against you.

This is a hard but important lesson for everyone to learn.

In the past, these 'putting down on paper' experiences, often written in the heat of the moment, or the dead of night, and resulting in pages of self pity and recriminations have given rise to the receiver dragging those letters out in the future and using them in ongoing discussions.

each term of parliament has a three-year cycle, it seems unlikely that the present federal government can be replaced at the next election, even if the expectation is that they are returned to power with a measurably reduced seat majority.

From here the speculation arises as to how those groups now in opposition could consider as their best way to be elevated into government. With Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party being seen as the big mover at present, it is numerically highly unlikely that they could gain the numbers to

In contemporary times, you can add text messages, online comments, and even photos or videos to the mix.

In your own case, if you provide a reference saying little Johnny is a fine, upstanding member of the community who volunteers his time, works at the local rescue animal shelter, waters the gardens of the elderly and infirmed, and participates in clean up Australia events, when in actual fact little Johnny graffitis his tag on every available bus stop, hoons around on his e-bike, shoplifts from the local markets, and is, in reality, a little ratbag, you are doing him a grave disservice.

He will learn nothing, and will continue to go about his merry way while others make excuses for his poor behaviour.

The idea of a reference letter is losing traction, because no one writes the brutal truth.

Reference letters are a bit like Resumes - they should be taken with a grain of salt.

If you must write one, say it as it is, and then let your friend decide whether they will use your letter. Something like: To Whom it May Concern, I write this reference for John Doe, a kid I hardly know, and what I do know may prejudice his court outcome, and not in a good way for John. Yours sincerely, Rhiannon G. That should suffice.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

govern on their own, so a coalition with others could provide the answer.

Their nearest group may well be the National Party, who are in coalition with the Liberal Party, so a three-party coalition could be seen as one method for achieving government.

Of course, individual egos would say no to this idea but the overall need to achieve power can create interesting bedfellows and at the present time, I can’t see a more achievable political alternative becoming available in the near future.

Mild tax tweaks are not a Marxist takeover

DEAR News Of The Area,

MORE rubbish rhetoric! Well, Albo and the current Labor Government are apparently “redistributing wealth” and “anti-opportunity”, and their recent mild tax tweaks are “Communist, Socialist and/or Marxist” depending on who you

listen to; or, in the case of Pauline, all three - presumably because she doesn’t know the difference.

I don’t recall anyone accusing PM Howard of “re-distributing wealth” when he and his sidekick Costello first introduced the tax changes to negative gearing and capital gains back in the early 2000s.

As predicted by those with any sense, these changes would come to turbo-charge the property

speculation industry and saw a frenzy of Howard’s ‘Ordinary Australians’ get on board the passive wealth creation train.

I do recall attending an investment symposium where we listened to investors who were working to build property portfolios which totally negated their annual tax bill.

Apparently, there was a caller on a Brisbane talkback radio segment who challenged the PM

at the time of the announcement on the grounds that the changes would lead to future generations being unable to afford their own property.

Howard, of course, dismissed it on the grounds that no-one had ever complained to him that their property value had increased.

Perhaps we should have.

Regards, Dave Wood.

Stop this woman becoming PM

DEAR

News Of The Area,

DURING the debacle of Pauline Hanson's speech at the Press Club (17/6/2026), one is left to ask: "What can we do to counter the possibility of this woman becoming Prime Minister?"

While this possibility may be an anathema to many of us, we must learn from Trump's victory in the USA.

Shock, Horror! How did it happen?

There are a lot of angry, disenchanted people, just like we have here.

One can't deny that Ms Hanson presented as a confident and well informed player. She quoted plenty of statistics, but who was factchecking?

How can the general public come to the realisation that she

is not the solution to Australia's problems?

The strongest response one hears is "The Labor Party must do something".

What else can Labor do? They are delivering change, one has only to watch "Question Time" to hear the list of achievements.

They listen to people and are prepared to make modifications to policy, such as they have with the

capital gains tax.

Labor supporters must be proactive by celebrating the achievements, aspirations and unity of the party to inform naysayers and recommend close examination of the nonsense sprouted by Ms Hanson.

Regards, Betty Starr.

Opinions are free, but facts are sacred

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WRITE in response to the published letter from Peter Williams (NOTA, 03/07/2026). There are a number of factual errors in Mr Williams' letter which I believe should not go uncorrected.

1. There is NO Teals, Greens, Labor, socialist alliance in Federal parliament. The Labor government governs in the House of representatives solely on its numbers - 94 to 56.

The senate has 29 Labor members as against 27 LNP, 10 Green, 6 independent and 4 One

Nation. Greens and independents vote according to the merits of proposed legislation, but there is no agreement on what they will do.

2.a. Housing crisis - courtesy of Howard and Costello's introduction of halving the former capital gains tax and the introduction and furthering of negative gearing

b. Inflation crisis - the RBA does not see a crisis, and the current increase is accepted to be the result of Trump's war against Iran. Every nation in the world suffers from it. Australia's inflation rate in 2022 was 0.7 per cent, the highest since 1990. A parting gift

from the Morrison government.

c. Rental crisis - decades in the making, due mainly to Howard and Costellos' wealthfare policies (see point b.)

d. Electricity - affordability governments of both stripes sold off power plants because they were rapidly becoming obsolete through aging In the case of the Victorian brown coal plants - too polluting as well.

e. Fuel crisis. There never was a supply crisis, but prices due to Trump's war shutting down the Strait of Hormuz.

f. Productivity crisis - Increased

productivity benefits went straight into the pockets of the corporations and the big bosses.

d. Cost of living - see points b. and e.

3. "At just below 60 per cent, the Australian Government gross debt to GDP ratio is less than half that of the US, and less than a quarter that of Japan.

Australian Government gross debt increased from $534.4 billion in March 2019 to $885.5 billion in April 2022.

"The Australian federal government debt is currently around $767 billion, which is about

43.8 per cent of the country’s GDP of $2.7 trillion, according to live debt trackers and government statistics."

I suspect that I have close to exceeded my potential publishing space, but I can, given the space, refute ALL of the untrue assertions made in Mr Williams letter, and would encourage him to take on board the journalists' dictumopinions are free, but facts are sacred.

Regards, Bill Robinson, Nambucca Valley.

To those who still think their difference

makes them wrong

DEAR News Of The Area,

THERE are minds in this world still hiding in the shadows of their own brilliance, still believing that the way they think is a mistake, a malfunction, a deviation from the path everyone else seems to walk so easily.

This is for them.

For the ones who were told they were too quiet, too intense, too strange, too sensitive, too honest, too much or not enough.

For the ones who learned to shrink themselves to fit into rooms that were never built for them.

You are not broken. You are not wrong. You are not an error in the

Stargazing

By Dave RENEKE

Universe more likely to be alive than empty

WHAT are the secrets of the Universe? How big is it, and how many stars does it contain?

That’s the title of an audiovisual presentation I’ll be giving in Wauchope this coming week—but in truth, it’s also the kind of question that follows me everywhere I go under the night sky.

Whether it’s a public talk, a school visit, or a quiet evening with a telescope set up in a dark field, the questions always come.

Adults tend to lean toward the technical edges of astronomy— distances measured in light years, the nature of black holes, the structure of the cosmos itself.

But children… children go straight to the heart of it. No hesitation. No filters. Just wonder.

I’ve only been truly stopped in my tracks once. It came during a school outreach session while I was

human design.

You are simply deep in a world that worships the shallow. You see patterns where others see noise. You feel truth where others feel inconvenience. You sense meaning in places most people never look.

You carry questions that would terrify those who only ever wanted simple answers. Your mind is not a deviation. It is a dimension.

And I know - you have spent years thinking your difference is a burden, a curse, a reason you were left out, misunderstood, dismissed, or pushed to the edges of the map.

But listen closely: The edges of the map are where the explorers live. The outcasts, the misfits, the

showing images from the Hubble Space Telescope, explaining how far into the Universe we can now see.

A small hand went up. A 10-year-old girl asked, very simply: “Can you see God with your telescope?”

There’s no textbook answer for that. Even the teachers looked at the floor. I remember pausing, then answering from instinct rather than knowledge:

“No… God is outside the Universe. He can see us, but we can’t see Him.”

I still don’t know where those words came from. But the room seemed to accept them, especially her.

And so the questions continue - the ones that return again and again, no matter the audience. How big is the Universe? As far as we can tell, it may be limitless.The observable Universe stretches back about 14 billion years to the Big Bang, but beyond that boundary lies pure uncertainty.

What we do know is already staggering: there are more stars than there are heartbeats for every human who has ever lived. Are we alone? The numbers alone make it difficult to believe we are. Hundreds of billions of galaxies exist, each containing hundreds of billions of stars. Many of those stars host planets, and some of those planets sit in conditions not unlike our own.

If life arises naturally given the right ingredients, then the Universe seems more likely to be alive than

quiet ones, the ones who think in colours instead of categories, in metaphors instead of instructions, in cosmic scale instead of small talk - they are the ones who carry the future inside them long before the world is ready to hear it.

Your mind is not a problem to solve. It is a landscape to explore. And the very thing you thought made you wrong is the thing that makes you extraordinary.

Your difference is not a wound. It is a window into a way of seeing that most people will never touch.

So if you are still hiding, still doubting, still believing the lie that your mind is too strange to belong - come forward. Step into the light

empty.

Then there is the unsettling realisation that when we look up at the night sky, we are also looking back in time. Some of the stars we see may no longer exist at all. Their light has simply been travelling long enough to reach us after their own end.

What happens if you fall into a black hole? That’s where science meets mystery. We know the gravity becomes so extreme that not even light can escape. Beyond that point, physics breaks into theory— perhaps a crushed singularity,

of your own thinking. Let yourself feel the quiet glory of being built differently. You are not here to blend. You are here to illuminate. And the world needs minds like

yours - not softened, not corrected, not reshaped, but seen.

Regards, Calvin Bartlett.

Ashamed of our PM

DEAR News Of The Area,

WE now have a Prime Minister who said he would be willing to shag Kylie Minogue, made a smirking sexualised joke about the female Prime Minister of Japan, and showed he is still a liar saying she gave him two melons when it was only one very special melon.

perhaps a tunnel through spacetime, perhaps something we have not yet imagined.

And just when the Universe feels remote and unreachable, it reminds us it is not. Australia’s space authorities have confirmed that unusual objects found washed up on remote beaches are likely fuel pressure vessels from a launch vehicle. Investigations, supported by the Australian Space Agency, suggest the debris is space hardware—fragments of rocket systems that survived reentry through Earth’s atmosphere

Then divulged he would have sex with his wife after a Rabbitohs win.

How does Kylie feel, how does the Prime Minister of Japan feel and, most importantly, how does Albanese’s wife feel?

And no comment from Labor’s Minister for Women, Senator Katy Gallagher.

I am ashamed of him.

Regards, Mary Bentley.

before falling back to the surface. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that space is no longer distant. It is active, busy, and increasingly present in our everyday world—from rocket launches overhead to fragments returning unannounced to our shores.

So whether we are tracing the birth of the Universe, wondering about life among the stars, or holding a piece of fallen space hardware in our hands, one thing becomes clear. The sky is not the limit. It is only the beginning.

Logger Heads Malibu Classic returns to Scotts Head

Bogie Bandits Social Golf Club

By Colin EVERINGHAM

TUESDAY 30/06/2026

Number of Players – 19

Game Played –Stableford

Wauchope Monday Mixed Bowls

By Beth GABRIEL

29.6.26

THE Winning team this last week before the EOFY was John Smyth, Betty Ezzy and Wauchope Women's Bowling Club

By Marie WINTER

THURSDAY 2nd July 2026

lady bowlers were on the green at Wauchope Country Club.

A semi-final game in the 4’s championships was

Winner- Chas Viner with - 42 Points( great effort considering the VERY wet and Boggy conditions).

2nd Col

Hutchings - 35 Points

3rd Ray

Marsh - 34 Points

4th John

Ian Gabriel. Betty didn’t play last week as she was busy handing out Lamingtons for the Westpac Rescue fundraiser, getting chocolate on her hands with 60 slabs of cake! But she was back, both golfing and bowling just with a change of blouse/shirt over

played with the following results, Margaret Wallis, Marie Winter, Kath Sweeny, and Glenda Elford 20 was defeated by Ita Walker, Heather Bartlett, Sue Petterson and Lil Allen 22, a very close game with the winning team delivering on the last end.

The lucky winners of the

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 24

just nine years old through to 80.

Competitors will travel from as far north as Noosa, as far south as Merimbula and even from New Zealand to compete in the anniversary event.

Many families have also entered, all hoping to earn the honour of having their family name added to the prestigious Family Achievement Honour Board while competing across the event's 15 divisions.

Competition begins with the under-14 cadets and extends through to the over75 men's and over-50 ladies divisions.

Scotts Head's renowned sand-bottom point break is expected to once again provide the perfect stage for the event.

Well protected from the prevailing winter southerly winds, the break is renowned for producing long, flowing rides that allow competitors to showcase the smooth, stylish surfing synonymous with traditional longboarding.

All competitors will ride longboards measuring at least nine feet in length.

The popular Old Malibu division will feature original pre-1965 longboards, which are considerably heavier than modern boards and require a distinctive surfing style.

The modern equivalent is the Log division, where competitors ride singlefin boards with traditional 50/50 rails and are judged on classic, old-school smooth and stylish surfing.

SPORT RESULTS

Gillard - 32 Points

5th Ian

Camejo - 31 Points

NTP 4 Ken Gallie

NTP 9 Chas

Viner

NTP 11 Steve Vickers

NTP 15 Peter Mansfield

lunch.

Judith Farrand and Bob Walker were the Runners

Up on rink 10, and also the Jackpot team but no luck at that draw. Ooooh!

On rink 12, another pair of Gunnar Furhmann and Maria Middleton were the

day on the fan of cards were Ita Walker, Heather Bartlett, Sue Petterson and Lil Allen,

The lucky losers was a social game with Cath Cooper, Ruth Baker and Fay Paine.

The jackpot no. 23 Sue Greenfield was not collected. The raffle prizes were picked up by Doris

The continued popularity of longboarding has also seen strong growth in female participation.

Following increased entries in recent years, the Logger Heads Malibu Club expanded the women's divisions last year.

Club Scotts will sponsor the open ladies division, Coastal Curves Surf Shop the over-35 ladies and Tradition Surfboards the over-50 ladies.

Among those returning will be last year's over-35 ladies winner Lynn Adlawan from Woolgoolga, who is expected to face strong competition from Laura Piggott of Freshwater and Bee Solomon.

Several former champions will also return to defend their titles.

These include Sarah Buls from Crescent Head, Josh Dunn from Shelly Beach Malibu Club in the Golden Sands Tavern old Malibu division, Logger Heads life member Alan Sheldon in the Scotts Head Local Liquor over-70s, Paul Scholton in the Burford Blanks Open 9 Foot division and Ricky Forsyth in the Reflections Holiday Parks over 50s.

Local surfers will also be looking to impress on their home break.

Grant Ferguson will contest both the Burford Blanks Open 9 Foot division and the Golden Sands Old Malibu event.

Ross Davis will compete in the Galeria CC/Ember & Tide Open Log division, while Garry Farrell lines up in the Bennett Surfboards over-65s.

Friday Afternoon Golfers

By Colin EVERINGHAM

FRIDAY 03 JUL 2026

Weather: Sensational Fine, Warm Sunny Winters Day 22oC.

Lucky Losers by a single point 15-16. Welcome back Maria! Thanks go to Gunnar and Brian for doing the draw. It was a steep learning curve for rink 10 skips who had not skipped before. They now know how to fill a score card in. Well done Karen and

McKinnon, Jenny Wooster, Ruth Baker, and Marie Winter.

On Saturday morning 4th July social games of bowls were played with the winners with the lowest score Patricia Fletcher and Marie Winter.

The lucky losers with the highest score were Jenny Wooster, Julie Samuelsson,

Joel Parkhouse will contest the Adrenalin Surf over-40s, while Lilly Lawson will compete in the Club Scotts open ladies.

Troy Martin will compete in the Reflections over-50s, Nicole Morrison in the Coastal Curves over35 ladies and Robyn Wren in the Valla Beach Tavern over-50 ladies, where she will challenge returning winner Manda Godfrey and Kat Dingle.

Spectators are encouraged to head to Scotts Head Beach, where excellent viewing locations provide the perfect vantage point to enjoy the action throughout the competition.

Visitors are also invited to join competitors and supporters at Club Scotts during the event, particularly on Saturday evening when the band Raven will provide live entertainment.

Beyond surfing, the Logger Heads Malibu Classic continues its proud tradition of giving back to the community.

The event raises funds for a number of local charities, including the Westpac Helicopter Rescue Service, the Nambucca Valley Cancer Support Group and, more recently, the Support Group for Everyday Carers.

Last year's event raised a total of $7,000 for these worthy organisations. For more information about the event, email loggerheadsmc@bigpond. com or call 0403 640 572.

Number of Players: 21 playing on the Front 9 holes.

Winner: Dave Giddens (Kiwi) Nett 35 was on 12 now on 5

2nd: Bob Lineham Nett

38

3rd: Ray Marsh Nett 39

4th: Don Steigrad Nett 39

Brian Raffle prizes went to Betty, Jenny, Ken, John McG, Martin and spouse Sue (twice).

Remember the AGM is 13th July, in a fortnight, and Taree West away visit on Sunday 26th July.

and Kath Sweeney.

The Jackpot no 21 was Julie Fraser was not picked up.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Kath Sweeney, Pat Coombes, Marie Winter and Melissa Murray.

At the June committee meeting the invitation for club select social triples

5th: Bill Wagner Nett 39

6th: Denis McGrath Nett 42

NTP 4th Hole Second

Shot: Don Steigrad

NTP 9th Hole Second

Shot: Gerry Nagle

Raffle Winner: Glenn Holt Again

Fees of a mighty $5 are also due. Martin has collected quite a few but do also pay your membership to whichever club you belong, wether its Wauchope Country Club, Port Macquarie, Lake Cathie or Laurieton etc..

games of bowls on Saturday morning is open to males and females. Please put your name with the preferred position if you have one down on the nomination sheet before 8.00am each Saturday . Play starts at 9.00am for 18 ends , cost is $12.00 and visitors are welcome.

SUDOKU

HENRY FIELD

Passed away June 13th 2026

When: Sat 11th July 11am - 2:30pm

Where: Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club, Matthew Flinders Drive, Port Macquarie Lunch will be catered. Bar service will be available, no BYOG.

Stories to be told and sights to be seen.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK

To place a classified ad, call 4981 8882 between 9am - 3pm The classified deadline is 12pm Wednesdays.

GARAGE remote, black lost in town / Settlement City on 15/6. Ph 0418 500 939

PAVERS, 9”x 4.5”x1.5” reddish colour. Approx 4m² Ph 0447 118 596 F120626

DOWNSIZING - books paintings, plants and other items. Any day on Buller St PM. Ph 0457 254 485 e100726

BRIDGESTONE

Dueler H/T tyre x 1, 255/60R18 1085

tubeless radial, never used, new cond. $150 Ph 0419 991 896

BRADEX collectors plate, good cond. Alan Border. SN600G. $20 Ph 6582 1019

BUFFET, cream $45 Ph 0422 179 343

DINNER set - Eternal Beau, Johnson Brothers for 10, exc cond. $80 0458 659 427

DONEGAL Parian China Claddagh Design 1 mug, 2 vases. $10 each. 0447 445 319

DOULTON Ware planter pots with saucers large - $35, small - $25 Ph 0401 226 410 F070526

DRUM kit, 8 piece Tama ‘80s, great rock kit, fair cond. $750. Ph 0428 585 549

CAMP Ovens - 30cm and 25cm both with lids. Great used cond $50 Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890 F130226

CLIMBING gear, various hardware, helmet and harnesses. Make an offer. Ph 0447 610 321 F121225

ASPIRE HSS-928 X

Large, brand new electric scooter plus lots of extras Paid $7,200, selling for $3,800. 0421 502 284 e240726

AUTOMOTIVE car SOS tools torque wrench valve lifters, timing light and numerous guages $95. 6585 7393

BED - QB base and mattress, limited use stored for years, GC $99. Ph 0405 292 205

COMPUTER desk with keyboard drawer and storage shelf on top $50. 0459 597 012 F270226

CONCRETE mixer Kelso 2.2cu/ft electric good cond. $90. North Haven. 0407 007 500 F030726PMCH

FISHING Rod - 3 piece Jarvis Walker Surf Rock 15 foot. Exc Cond. $80 ono. Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890

FISHING rod and reel $90. Ph 0428 489 689

Classifieds 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea. com.au

FLURO light, 60cm wide w/ 2 globes. $30 Ph 0412 004 970

GARDEN leaf blower petrol engine $45. 6585 7393 F191225

CRYSTAL vase, 30cm high, $25. Ph 0401 226 410

GOLF Balls and Tees x 50. Great Cond $50. Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890

LEAD Cystal decanter (large) $30 0447 122 829 F071125

LIMITED edition Franklin Mint porcelain plates 3x teddy bear series 1x Thoroughbred. With stands. $90. 0400 993 382

LIMITED edition Franklin Mint teddy bear in North American Indian costume. 40cm tall, posed on a stand Collectors item. $95 0400 993 382

LOUNGE, cane, 1 x 2 seater, 2 chairs, recently repainted, great cond $250. Ph 0459 900 939

LOUNGE, grey, 3 seater would suit man cave/ shed, good cond. $50 Ph 0428 585 549

OLD fashioned desk, 6 drawers large, GC. $40 Ph 0459 365 025 F230126

OIL heater on wheels 1500watt, DeLonghi Cash only. $10. Ph 0408 446 129

OMEGA Smeg microwave & convection grill oven 30lt exc. cond $99. Ph 0403 800 775

OZITO 210mm compound mitre saw 1600w motor good cond. $50 Ph 0417 574 180

PENTAX ESP10 vintage camera w-case & manual - top cond $200. 0481 046 477

tarps, grey 1800mm x 2400mm top cond. 3 for $25 or $10 each. 0481 046 477F200326

QB sheets x 2 sets. $30 for both sets. Ph 0467 655 663

30FT fold-out container home, 2 bdr, bathroom kitchen, brand new $50,000 ono. Ph 0401 035 674 NHPMRUS51126 3 boat fuel tanks, 25ltrs $50 the lot. Ph 0408 994 486

ADJUSTABLE mobility chair, padded with armrests. $90. 0459 597 012

BLACK school shoes new balance, size 2 US as new $25. 0458 659 427 F300126

CURTAINS, cream good quality, pinch pleat 2.2m drop various widths $15 each. Pick up Port Mac. 0435 641 556

ROHO Quadtro wheelchair cushion select HP for 59x50cm as new. $99. Ph 0412 310 475

ROTARY Slide magazines, 13 used exc cond. $75 as one lot Ph 0404 428 738

SAMSUNG AX 3300 Air Purifier. As new, in box $90. 0405 027 650 F260626 SOLD

SANLI GMC garden blower vac, 2 stroke 26cc in exc. cond. $79 0403 800 775 F080526

SOLID pine timber TV cabinet. GC. $50. Ph 0400 779 531

MAKITA garden grass trimmer, 2 stroke, 21cc electric ignigition, exc cond. $99. Ph 0403 800 775

newsofthearea.com.au Celebration of Life

GOLF clubs. 4 x Drivers No’s 1,1, 3 & 4, 1 x 4 Iron & 2 Putters. $10 ea or $50 the lot. Ph 02 6584 9884

MASPORT garden gobbler for shredding and chipping. 3.02hp 240v, $90. Ph 6582 0179

BEDSTICK $40. Ph 0427 951 211 RADIATOR, 10 fin $20. 0402 164 639

MATTRESS, QB as new, Wonderest smart coil, good value at $260 Ph 0488 979 484 e190626

KING single bed base - two available. $30 each Pick up Port Mac. Ph 0435 641 556

BOXING memorabilia Ali/Famechon signed postcards all framed bouts info. $100 no offers. Ph 6582 5885

CURTAINS tie backs soft rope style, creamy white, exc. cond. 10 avail $4 each. Pick up Port Mac. 0435 641 556

DINING table, cream w/ dark pink chairs $95 Ph 0422 179 343

PETWAY pet door for small to med sized pet up to 10kg, good cond ext dim 33cm H x 28cm W, int dim 24cm H x 19cm W. $40. Ph 0428 559 572

PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1,800 ono. 0498 176 876 RTSALL311226

PICNIC 3pce aluminum folding setting exc cond $30. Ph 0481 046 477

chair, leather cream w/black frame $25. Ph 0402 164 639

TOASTER, Kambrook model LTA620BSS brand new. $60. Ph 0488 429 163

WHEELCHAIR

Equagel memory foam cushion, was $349 selling for $99. Ph 0439 107 504

YAMAHA RXV493 surround sound system $90. 0428 585 549 F050626

LOUNGES x 2 leather 1 x 3 seater, 1 x 2 seater, burgandy, fair to good condition. $300 Ph 0402 586 877 PET crate collapsible suitable for small dog 61 x 46 x 48cm, holds 5-11kg. Exc. cond $20. Ph 0402 586 877 WHEELCHAIR, electric light folding, heavy duty Gilani

To place a classified ad phone 02 4981 8882

QUINTREX Dory 420 with 25 hp motor REG N72817 with trailer reg IAT424N. $5,500 ono Ph 0401 734 322

MEGABLOCKS racing car set. 180 blocks, 13 cars. $40 Ph 0458 659 427

cream buffet $25. 0402 164 639

LAWNMOWER, $95 0478 926 676

NESPRESSO coffee capsule machine with Podista milk frother as new cond. $99 Ph 0481 046 477

PIERRE Trudeau biography by George Radwanski. $5. Ph 0447 445 319

PLANT pots - variety of ceramic and plastic. $70 Ph 0488 979 484 F190626

TREADMILL, Avanti AT380, good cond owner’s manual. Pick up PM. $250 neg. Cash only. Ph 0413 889 231

BOAT rod, 9” Alvey Reel and 7ft 2” penn rod $100. 6582 1019 F240426 Motors

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

FARMER WANTS A WIFE

SEVEN, 7pm

The time has come to leave behind the akubras, Blundstones and spurs, as the farmers and their potential partners are off to Sydney for a glamorous black-tie dinner. The blokes do their best James Bond impressions in tuxedos and the ladies are dressed to the nines, offering everyone the chance to see each other in a new light. However, for some, that fresh perspective will cause them to question their own connections. As a life-changing decision looms, emotions run high for Jarrad, Zac, Dylan and Jason (above, from left) as they consider whether to follow their heart or their head.

FRIDAY, July 10

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Race Around The World. (Ml, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 1.45 Ground Up. (Ml, R) 2.20 The Assembly. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. Monty Don explores London’s most beautiful gardens.

8.30 Saint-Pierre. (Mv) Fitz and Arch engage in a game of cat and mouse as they

MONDAY

TRAVEL GUIDES

NBN, 7.30pm

From the Seven Wonders of the World to the wackiest travel experiences on offer, this unfiltered reality series has seen and done it all, complete with buying the cheesy souvenirs to take home. But let’s be honest, some of the best destinations on Earth are in our own backyard. To prove it, the Guides are heading on a scenic road trip along the New South Wales south coast – bringing Love Island Australia Hibberd and Callum Hole (right) along for the ride. It’s good clean fun as they depart Sydney in electric vehicles and set their GPS for the laidback towns of Jamberoo, Kiama, Nowra, Bateman’s Bay and Narooma.

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter-final. FRA v MAR. Cont. 8.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. USA v BEL. Replay. 11.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. ARG v EGY. Replay. 2.30 WorldWatch. 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 4.30 The Cook Up. (R) 5.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. The weekly winners return.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 MOVIE: Journey Home, David Gulpilil. (2025, Ml, R) The late David Gulpilil is laid to rest. Danzal Baker, Hugh Jackman.

WEDNESDAY

ALONE AUSTRALIA

SBS, 7.30pm

No one could accuse this extreme survival series of going easy on its contestants, but just in case, the producers of this latest instalment have upped the stakes significantly. While earlier seasons have dropped survival experts into the wilderness of Tasmania and New Zealand, this fourth Aussie edition takes 10 participants (including Lillian, above) to Sápmi, Finland, and leaves them to their own devices in an unfamiliar Arctic environment where hunting is forbidden and temperatures are subzero. In Wednesday’s doubleepisode premiere, the participants are dropped off and start to make camp.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Where The Crawdads Sing. (2022, Masv, R) A girl who raised herself in dangerous marshlands finds herself the prime suspect in a

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 19. Wests Tigers v New Zealand Warriors. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the

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 Australia. (PGa, R) Mary and Tom finally purchased a dream home.

SATURDAY, July 11

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Sharon is anxious to be a godmother.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

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

7.30 Cooper & Fry. (M) Cooper wrestles with his past as he and Fry investigate the death of a teenage girl.

9.05 Doc Martin. (PGa, R) The surgery is chaotic with both Martin and Louisa now practising from it.

9.50 The Capture. (MA15+v, R) As the scale of the conspiracy reveals itself, Carey makes a surprising decision.

10.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGa)

8.25 National Parks From Above: Ireland. (R)

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 8.

2.00 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

3.45 Bamay. (R)

4.20 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. (R)

4.50 Primitive Medium. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team wanders with wolfhounds through Ireland.

8.30 MOVIE: The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (1997, PGv, R)

A team visits an island of dinosaurs. Jeff Goldblum, Julianne Moore.

11.05 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal, R)

12.45 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 1. Qualifying. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: The Notebook. (2004, PGals, R) An old man reads a love story. Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling.

10.00 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009, PGdlv, R) A homeless teenager becomes a gridiron player. Sandra Bullock. 12.30 Wimbledon 2026 Pre-Show.

1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 13 Late. Women’s final.

4.00 Great Australian Detour Snow. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Charlotte is looking for a dog to give her best friend, Zeke the pug, some love. Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) Jacquie and John have owned a main street pub for 14 years but are looking for someone to take over. 9.40 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) Multiple resources are dispatched to a patient who has fallen

6am Children’s Programs. 11.45 Andy And The Band. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Octonauts. 4.10 Dino Dex. 5.10 Isadora Moon. 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 Chopped Junior. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Abbott Elementary. 11.00 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, July 12

6.30 Compass: Reviving The Mullet Run.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. The racers fly off to destinations separately.

8.30 Ground Up. (Final, Ml) Hugh’s dog is kidnapped and the football department’s database is hacked.

9.05 The Capture. (Final, MA15+v) Carey is drawn deeper into Simon’s plan.

10.20 Cooper & Fry. (Ma, R)

11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.45 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

3.15 Doc Martin. (PGa, R)

4.05 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Tabby McTat. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. (Premiere) 8.10 Epic Adventures With Bertie Gregory. (Premiere) 8.50 Animal Park. 10.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 11.05 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eiffel Tower: Life Behind The Scenes. (PG)

8.30 Mont-Saint-Michel: Rising Again. (R) Looks at Mont-Saint-Michel, a triumph of technical prowess, spiritual ambition and architectural audacity.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 9.

2.30 Putin’s Crisis. (Mav, R)

3.30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (PGl, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

7TWO (62)

Expanse. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. Switzerland v Colombia. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 10.30 Auction Squad.

6am Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.15 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 9.10 Born To Dance. (2015, PG) 11.00 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 12.40pm The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 2.35 Bedevil. (1993, PG) 4.15 Philadelphia. (1993, PG) 6.35 The NeverEnding Story. (1984) 8.30 Bridge Of Spies. (2015) 11.10 My Summer Of Love. (2004, M) 12.45am Late Programs. 5.50 Philadelphia. (1993, PG) 6am Philadelphia. Continued. (1993, PG) 8.10 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 10.15 Bridge Of Spies. (2015) 12.55pm My Summer Of Love. (2004, M) 2.30 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 4.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.30 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 8.30 Butcher’s Crossing. (2022) 10.30 Unfaithful. (2002, MA15+) 12.45am Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, MA15+) 2.35 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) 8.30 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on long-form investigations.

9.30 7NEWS: Disappearance Of William Tyrrell. (R) 10.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)

11.50 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 2. Qualifying. Highlights.

12.50 Angelyne. (Ml)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

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

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 LEGO Masters Bricktacular. (PG) 8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.30 9News Late.

10.00 The First 48: Thick As Thieves. (Malv) Two people are killed in a home invasion. 11.00 Love Cheats. (Mal) 12.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 12.30 Wimbledon 2026 Pre-Show. 1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 14 Late. Men’s final. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6am Morning Programs. 4.30pm Rugby Union. Nations C’ship. AUS v FRA. 7.30 Nations Championship: Australia v France PostMatch. 8.00 MOVIE: The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug. (2013, M) 11.40 The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power. 12.55am Prodigal Son. 2.35 MOVIE: Christmess. (2023, M) 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.10 Mia & Codie. 5.30 Wild Manes. 6am Morning Programs. 9.10 Australian Ninja Warrior. 1.10pm Motor Racing. FIA

MONDAY, July 13

6.00

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.20 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, July 14

(R) 4.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. (R) 4.30 The Cook Up. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Michael Palin: Into Iraq. (Ms, R)

8.30 24 Hours In Emergency: Brave New World. (Mal)

9.25 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)

2.35 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.

9.20 The Rookie. (Mav) Juarez thinks Penn’s recent string of bad luck is the result of a curse.

10.20 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)

11.20 The Agenda Setters.

12.20 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R) 1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Australia. (R) 4.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PGa, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ice Age. 9.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.55 BattleBots. 10.45 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory. 11.25 Late Programs.

6am Born To Dance.

Continued. (2015, PG) 6.50 The NeverEnding Story. (1984) 8.40 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 10.45 Butcher’s Crossing. (2022) 12.50pm Aftersun. (2022, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.15 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 5.20 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 7.30 Sense And Sensibility. (1995) 10.00 My Neighbour Totoro. (1988, PG) 11.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (PG,

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Portugal With Michael Portillo. (R) Michael Portillo’s journey in Portugal continues in Braga, its oldest city, and Ponte de Lima, its oldest town.

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks into DNA testing.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 10. Aurillac to Le Lioran. 166.6km mountain stage. From France.

2.00 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (Mas, R)

2.55 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. (R)

3.55 Beautiful Game Changers. (R)

4.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final.

SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Orator. Continued. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.35 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 9.35 Sense And Sensibility. (1995) 12.05pm The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 2.00 My Neighbour Totoro. (1988, PG) 3.40 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 5.40 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 7.30 The Outsiders. (1983, M) 9.10 High Fidelity. (2000) 11.20 Begin Again. (2013, M) 1.20am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

First Dates Australia. (Ma) 8.40 Doc. (Ma) Joan arrives at the hospital as a patient. 9.40 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (MA15+l) 10.40 The Agenda Setters.

(64) 7MATE (64)

Happy’s Place. (PGal)

The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)

Home Shopping. (R)

6.00

WEDNESDAY, July 15

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final. Cont. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarterfinal. Replay. 10.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter-final. Replay. 1.30 WorldWatch. 3.00 PBS NewsHour. 4.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 4.30 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

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

9.45 Coldwater. (Malv) Keen to expose the truth about Tommy, John and Fiona invite him and Rebecca to lunch.

10.40 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 11.

2.10 Journey Of The Pelicans: An Outback Mystery. (R)

3.00 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. (R) 4.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final.

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

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R) 8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) 9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) 10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 The Fall And Rise Of Reggie Dinkins. (PGas)

11.30 Stumble. (PGals)

12.00 Everything I Know About Love. (Premiere, MA15+dls)

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 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Tipping Point: Travel Guides. (PG) 8.45 NRL Origin Story. (M) 10.00 9News Late.

Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.30 A Killer Makes A Call. (Ma, R) 12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 Ninjago. 10.50 Late Programs.

THURSDAY,

Mv, R) 2.15 Bee Cause. (R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 4.00 Frankie Drake. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

11.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 8.50 Ultimate Vets. 9.10 Animal Park. 9.55 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.40 Amazing Animal Friends. 11.30 Late Programs.

Morning Programs. 2pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 9. Highlights.

8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 The Expanse. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter-final. Norway v England. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am Clockwatchers.

Continued. (1997, PG) 6.50 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 8.55 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 11.05 The Perks Of Being A Wallflower. (2012, M) 1pm Begin Again. (2013, M) 2.55 Sense And Sensibility. (1995) 5.25 Local Hero. (1983, PG) 7.30

The Client. (1994, M) 9.50 The Fly. (1986, MA15+) 11.35 Dark Age. (1987, MA15+) 1.20am Seeking Justice. (2011, MA15+) 3.20 Late Programs.

July 16

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Semi-final. Cont. 7.30

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

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Spain With Michael Portillo. (PG)

8.30 Eva Longoria: Searching For France. (PGa) Eva heads to the port city of Marseille. 9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 12.

2.15 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (PG, R)

4.05 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs.

2pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 10. Highlights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 11. Highlights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.35 France 24. 5.05 PBS News. 6.05 Mysteries From Above. 6.55 Jeopardy!

8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.25 Cup Fever! 8.55 Alone Australia. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter-final. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

(32)

6am Local Hero. (1983, PG) 8.10 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 10.10

The Outsiders. (1983, M) 11.50 High Fidelity. (2000) 2pm Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 3.50 The Company. (2003, PG) 5.55 Viva Las Vegas. (1964, PG) 7.30

Gremlins. (1984, M) 9.30 Escape From New York. (1981, M) 11.25 Sky Pirates. (1986, M) 1am Rosenthal. (2025, M, Yiddish) 2.50 House Of The Seasons. (2023, M, Japanese) 5.05 Late Programs.

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

8.30 Air Crash Investigations: Moments From Touchdown. (PGa) Looks at the crash of Yeti Airlines Flight 691.

9.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles: Terry Floyd. (PGa, R) A look at the case of Terry Floyd.

10.30 To Be Advised.

12.00 Brave New World. (MA15+asv)

1.00 ICU. (PGa, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

QuadStrike. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers: Best Of.

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30

6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Dark Knight. (2008, M) 11.35 Seinfeld. 12.35am Love Island Games. 2.00 Below Deck Sailing Yacht. 3.05 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Heartlake Stories. 5.10 Hop. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Horrible Bosses 2. (2014, MA15+) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 Rugby Heaven. 12.45am MOVIE: Sons Of Summer. (2023, MA15+) 2.30 Surfing Australia. 3.00 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Barney’s

4.50

5.10 Hop. 5.30 Beyblade

Friends

SPORT News Of The Area

By Mick BIRTLES

ONE of the Nambucca Valley's longest-running and most iconic sporting events is about to celebrate a major milestone, with the 40th Logger Heads Malibu Classic set to bring three days of surfing and community to Scotts Head over the period Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July.

Now in its 40th year, the event continues to attract longboard surfers from across Australia and overseas, cementing its reputation as one of the country's premier traditional longboarding competitions.

This year's milestone event has already attracted more than 195 competitors, with both male and female surfers ranging in age from CONTINUED Page 16

LOGJAM AHEAD