Port Macquarie News Of The Area 15 MAY 2026

By Pauline CAIN

BUDGET BREAKDOWN Celebration

Sue STEPHENSON sue@newsofthearea.com.au

Pauline CAIN 0409 394 499 pauline@newsofthearea.com.au

Bill HARROW 0437 776 247 bill@newsofthearea.com.au

Sis HIGGINS 0488 027 142 sis@newsofthearea.com.au

Rachael THORPE 0438 876 009 rachael@newsofthearea.com.au

Rikki WALLER 0417 833 279 rikki@newsofthearea.com.au

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

EDITOR

Chantelle ANSELL 0431 232 820 chan@newsofthearea.com.au

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Police guard of honour farewells Peter Walsh

By Sue STEPHENSON

A POLICE guard of honour lined Hay Street, Port Macquarie on Friday 8 May, to farewell Retired NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Peter Walsh APM, following his funeral in St Agnes Catholic Church.

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM was among

the current and former police officers who joined extended family and friends in remembering the “true country copper”.

Peter Walsh served the state for more than 37 years, from 1965 to 2003, and remained a member of the Police Association for 62 years.

Described as a highly respected leader, he was also known for his “old

school” policing values and mentorship of junior staff. His career included roles in Sydney, Orange, Goulburn, Dubbo and Tweed Heads, and as Northern Region Commander.

He took the lead in responding to the 1995

ambush murders of Senior Constables Robert Spears and Peter Addison at Crescent Head, and the murders of seven people in the 1991 Strathfield massacre.

Known as “Walshy”, he also spent many years as a member of the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) and was a flight crew member with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter while attached to the Northern Region.

Following his

retirement, he remained involved in the Port Macquarie community.

Married to Narelle, the couple shared sons Justyn and Ian, and nine grandchildren.

“As I look around this church… you should have no doubt of the impact that Peter had on so many," Commissioner Lanyon said in addressing his family.

Peter Walsh passed away on 2 May aged 79.

Stick a pin in it

By Sue STEPHENSON

HOUSTON Mitchell Drive and M1 drivers are being urged to leave their mark on the NSW Government’s “Have Your Say” campaign.

By going to a map on the Transport for NSW

(TfNSW) website, a virtual pin can be placed on the dangerous intersection, adding weight to calls for an overpass.

The interactive map will help the NSW Government refine its North Coast Strategic Regional Integrated

Transport Plan, which sets out infrastructure priorities for the next 20 years.

Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is hoping for a repeat of the strong public response to “pinning” the Wrights Road and Oxley

throughout Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.

Some include, supermarkets, newsagents, convenience stores, shopping centres, chemists, service stations, real estate agents, many general businesses throughout the area.

A list is published towards the back of this newspaper. You can also find the outlets by going to www.newsofthearea.com.au

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Highway intersection in Port Macquarie.

“Thousands of people placed pins on the Oxley Highway, sending a clear message that our community expects action,” he said.

“We now have an opportunity to build that same momentum for Houston Mitchell Drive.”

The Bonny Hills Progress Association has been lobbying for an upgrade for years.

Spokesperson Kathy Regan is appealing to the community to “keep up the push”.

“We had over 16,000 sign the petition. We need you all to help again”, she shared.

“Cover this space with pins to repeat the request and keep this in the sight

of decision makers.

“We have been told repeatedly [that] the speed limit will not be reduced on a national highway and fixed speed cameras are no longer being installed.

“An overpass is the only long term safety fix.”

To add a pin, go to haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/ sritp/north-coast and enter the address as Lake Innes.

Ms Regan recommends zooming in on the intersection, where other pins have been added, and leaving a comment calling for an overpass.

Mr Dwyer said he has again met Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison to discuss the intersections.

Ocean Pool Committee releases latest survey results

By Bill HARROW and Sue STEPHENSON

THE results of one of two separate surveys about the proposed ocean pool at Oxley Beach have been released.

Commissioned by the Port Macquarie Ocean Pool Committee, the group behind the project, the survey found that 74 percent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed with the concept.

“Such an endorsement sends a clear message to

Port Macquarie Hastings Council that it’s time to proceed with our Planning Application, the first step in the approval process,” said Committee Chair Fred O’Toole.

The survey was designed and conducted by environmental and social consultancy Umwelt, and was completed by 4,200 locals and visitors.

Results of a second survey circulated by the pool’s opponents, Protect Oxley Beach, are yet to be

released.

Both were launched ahead of a critical Council vote, expected during its 21 May meeting.

Councillors must decide if changes to planning controls and permissible land uses are appropriate before the project can proceed to the development application stage.

Beyond this requirement, Council has previously stressed that it has “a position of non-involvement in the development, funding, or delivery of the Ocean Pool”.

Its stated priority is

the redevelopment of the Aquatic Centre.

The Ocean Pool Committee is urging councillors to recognise the level of community support demonstrated by the survey results.

“The benefits to the community are enormous,” Mr O’Toole said.

“Aside from the welldocumented health benefits, many seniors and younger families with children love to swim in the sea but are afraid of sharks, so they don’t swim at all.

“These results confirm that an ocean pool is a free

ticket for a safe, inclusive swimming environment.”

Meantime, a support rally is being held at the beach on Friday, 15 May, at 10.30am.

Spokesman Paul Adams said, “For many in the community, this is simply too important to lose.

“But it will be lost unless the community shows its support at our rally.”

The results of environmental studies and stakeholder consultations can be found on the committee’s website.

Laurieton locals frustrated at Council no-show

By Rachael THORPE

EMOTIONS ran high at a community meeting discussing future plans for the Laurieton CBD on Tuesday night after Port MacquarieHastings Council staff failed to attend.

Dunbogan resident Bruce de Graaf.

“Council aren’t here because we’re the ‘Cinderella’ suburb for the Port MacquarieHastings region,” he said.

Mr Hadfield told News Of The Area, “The Chamber and many members of the community were extremely disappointed by Council’s decision to cancel their attendance at the meeting.

Many present also expressed that basic maintenance of footpaths and infrastructure, coupled with regular street cleaning, needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency in Laurieton.

timeline and budget for proposed projects.

“These types of improvements would encourage private investment and lead to long term benefits for the community.”

While the Chamber will be putting in a collective submission to Council on the draft plan, Mr Hadfield encouraged all present to make their own submissions via the Council’s Have Your Say website.

The Council planning document sets out a proposed direction for the Laurieton town centre and is currently on public exhibition.

More than 80 people packed out the Mountainview room for the 90-minute

Hosted at the Laurieton United Services Club, the open forum was facilitated by the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce to discuss the Draft Laurieton Town Centre Master Plan.

meeting, including a broad cross section of residents and business owners.

While two Council staff had been scheduled to attend, Chamber President Luke Hadfield said he received an email on Tuesday cancelling their appearance.

Many in the room expressed their frustration with the no-show, including

“This was a genuine opportunity for Council staff to hear directly from residents, businesses and community groups in an open and constructive environment, and unfortunately that opportunity has now been missed.

“People came prepared to engage respectfully and provide meaningful feedback.”

Businesses and residents overwhelmingly communicated their concerns regarding proposed changes to parking which include reduced parking spaces, a lack of accessibility, and timed parking.

Celebration of a football legend

FROM Page 1

Kangaroos side, making the first of his 21 Test appearances at Headingley in the opening game of the series.

According to the NRL Hall of Fame, Harry was a dominating figure in the third Test against Great Britain in 1954.

He scored the try that sent the Australians on their way to the Ashes.

Well known for his ability to break the line, Harry was a popular footballer.

He returned to Sydney in 1956 to join Wests and stayed six seasons with the Magpies, appearing in 85 games and scoring 33 tries.

He played in three World Cups and made a second Kangaroos tour in 1959–60.

His career in professional football ended in 1961, but he continued playing, finishing up in Port Macquarie in 1972, at age 40, as captaincoach of the Port Macquarie Sharks.

Tracy Wells, Harry’s daughter-in-law, said, “When Harry went on tour he had to go by boat - an eight month trip all round.

“He played for Wests but his game numbers are not as high as they should be because of the long tours.

“Yvonne and their three kids had to rent their house out and move back in with her parents to survive.

“They would get a small allowance which would be sent home monthly, but nothing like what players are paid today.”

Locals gathered at the table outside the shop on Friday afternoon to chat with Harry and his wife Yvonne.

Matthew Hohnberg used to visit English rugby league legend Phil Jackson in Wagga,

In response to this, Mr Hadfield announced a plan by the Chamber to establish a volunteer beautification task force for the area which could undertake small and impactful projects.

However, he cautioned that there were still identified obstacles in working with the Council which needed to be overcome.

Business owner John Harvey agrees.

“Laurieton is a fantastic town. It has a beautiful, wide street with a stunning mountain backdrop but there has been no development there in the last fifteen years.

“I believe any element that involves beautification of the area would be widely supported by the community, however it is crucial that Council provide a clear

and he shared some photos and stories of Phil with Harry.

Harry played against Phil Jackson in England and also some “bush” football here in Australia.

“It is becoming very clear through the Chamber’s consultation process that several consistent themes are emerging from the community,” he said.

“We hope Council genuinely listens to this feedback and carefully considers the concerns and ideas that residents and businesses are putting forward as part of this exhibition period.”

Submissions to Council on the plan close at 5pm on 5 June.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has been contacted for comment.

Jill Gain knew Harry and Yvonne through a local walking group and she has enjoyed many chats about football over the years with Harry. Councillor Nik Lipovac also joined the crowd of well-wishers along with Tom Lockwood who has worked in the shop for many years.

Regional issues raised in Sydney

PORT Macquarie-Hastings

Council leaders participated in a series of high-level meetings and regional advocacy forums in Sydney last week.

Mayor Adam Roberts and General Manager Robert Fish joined council leaders from across the region as part of a Mid North Coast Joint Organisation (MNCJO) delegation to NSW Parliament.

Discussions were held with senior NSW Government figures including Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Roads and Regional Transport

Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Recovery and the North Coast Janelle Saffin, Minister for Agriculture and Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty, and representatives from the offices of Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully and Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.

Premier Minns also addressed the Country Mayors Association quarterly meeting which was held in NSW Parliament.

Mayor Roberts said the Premier's attendance was a valuable opportunity for regional and rural councils to present a united voice on the key challenges facing regional NSW.

“It was a productive and positive week of advocacy for

the Port Macquarie-Hastings and the broader Mid North Coast region,” Mayor Roberts said.

“I appreciated the opportunity to speak directly with the NSW Premier and Ministers about the challenges our communities are facing, but importantly, also the opportunities that exist when regional councils and the NSW Government work together.

“Key issues discussed throughout the meetings included enabling infrastructure to support regional growth and housing, state road upgrades, disaster recovery funding, housing pressures, waste services, environmental sustainability and long-term resilience planning.”

Mayor Roberts said the delegation reinforced the importance of regional collaboration and ensuring the Mid North Coast remains strongly represented in statewide decision making.

“The MNCJO continues to play an important role in bringing councils together to advocate on shared priorities and deliver better outcomes for our communities,” he said.

During the visit, Mayor Roberts also attended the Rural and Regional Summit hosted by Local Government NSW.

The summit brought together local government leaders from across regional NSW to discuss the future of rural and regional communities, with topics including infrastructure investment, workforce challenges, housing, health, economic development and disaster resilience.

By Sis HIGGINS

REGIONAL rent prices across NSW have held steady over the March quarter, but remain at record highs compared to a year ago.

New data from realestate. com.au Market Insight, shows rents in regional areas rose 4.3 percent year-on-year despite no growth over the latest quarter.

This has pushed the median advertised rent in regional NSW to $600 per week, highlighting ongoing affordability pressures for tenants.

A spokesperson for realestate.com.au said, “Rent growth remains solid, up 4.6 percent in the past year across the capital cities.

“While still firm, rent growth remains below the peak levels seen in 2022 and 2023, as somewhat improved rental availability, as well as strained rental affordability, has slowed the pace of increases.”

The rental market across the Hastings and Camden Haven regions remains active, however Lauren

Webster, a Property Manager at Beachscape Real Estate, told NOTA conditions have started to stabilise since February 2026.

“Current trends indicate the market is now aligning more closely with fair market value pricing, with most properties taking approximately one to three weeks from advertising to securing the right tenant, compared with next-day leasing outcomes a year ago,” she said.

“While leasing timeframes have lengthened, demand remains healthy overall.”

Across the region, compared with 12 months ago, Ms Webster said tenant demand remains solid but is no longer operating at the peak conditions experienced during the previous rental surge.

“At that time, properties were often leased within days and tenants frequently offered above the advertised asking price to secure homes.

“Today’s market is more balanced, with pricing expectations being guided by

fair market value.”

Ms Webster said demand for both housing and units continues to be particularly strong in Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie, driven by the popularity of newer homes and lifestyle appeal.

“The Camden Haven areas are currently showing a less favourable trend given its distance from the Port Macquarie CBD,” she said.

Other agents say conditions are beginning to shift as new developments add to supply.

McGrath Estate Agents Port Macquarie Licensed Property Manager Katrina Bates said, “With the market currently active and offering greater choice for renters, the introduction of [more] apartment living has received positive interest.”

Ms Bates said there are currently around 158 properties available locally, signalling an improvement in supply compared to previous years.

“This means renters have a wide range of options, indicating that supply has improved compared to

previous periods.”

Despite this, Ms Bates said price pressures remain.

“Rental prices have increased over the past couple of months.

“While this is positive for property owners, it has made it challenging for some renters, particularly those at the lower end of the market.”

The impact is being felt most by retirees and those seeking more affordable housing.

“Retirees, especially those seeking smaller, more

affordable properties, are finding it difficult to meet rental costs.”

The data shows regional markets are continuing to outperform capital cities in annual rent growth, reflecting sustained demand for nonmetro living.

Looking ahead, the outlook suggests a more moderate pace of increases as supply gradually improves, though affordability challenges are likely to persist.

SES takes top honours at rescue challenge

By Bill HARROW

PORT Macquarie State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers were the overall winners at the 2026 NSW State Road Crash Rescue Challenge held in Dubbo from 1-3 May, outperforming teams from across the state and beyond.

Over 200 emergency service personnel from agencies including NSW

SES, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Ambulance, VRA Rescue NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service, Country Fire Authority Victoria, and the Victorian SES came together for the multiday event which tested advanced rescue, trauma care and emergency response capabilities.

“It’s a fantastic result for our team and a real credit to the time and effort our members put into

regular training,” said Katie Blake, Unit Commander Port Macquarie SES.

“All our rescue operators train to be the kind of responder we’d want turning up for our own family in an emergency - professional, highly skilled and capable.”

The Port Macquarie team were outstanding in delivering performances across a series of realistic high-pressure scenarios, including road crash rescue, industrial and domestic rescue, and trauma and CPR challenges.

The event included a professional development symposium along with specialist training sessions, covering emergency challenges such as electric vehicle rescues, vehicle intrusion management and bariatric response techniques.

The win highlights Port Macquarie’s growing reputation as a leader in rescue capability and reinforces the importance of ongoing training and inter-agency collaboration in keeping communities safe.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN

FROM Page 1

several years.

“The signature cost-ofliving piece in Jim’s budget announcement is an ongoing $250 tax offset for more than 13 million working Australians, starting in 2027–28,” he said.

“That means Aussie workers won't see that in their pocket until after July 2028.

“Conveniently after the next Federal election.

“So we can’t hold them accountable for them anytime soon.

“Labor claims to be helping more Australians into home ownership with their broken promises on Capital Gains tax and Negative Gearing for landlords.

“But are simultaneously set to increase migration levels, putting additional strain on limited housing supply and overstretched infrastructure.”

Fellow National, Member for Lyne Alison Penfold, called the Budget a “bloodbath for regional Australia”.

Her key concerns are related to the funding of roads, health, water and telecommunications.

“In terms of local services and infrastructure, there is no funding for the

roads and grade-separated interchanges on the Pacific Highway, which our communities need.

“They have stripped $21.4 million from regional telecommunications funding making the challenge of addressing mobile and internet blackspots even harder.

“$103 million has been cut from the National Water Grid – the pool of funds that had the potential of providing funds to MidCoast Council for the Kiwarrak Off-River Water Storage Project to secure the Manning’s long term water supply.

“In a funding commitment of $1.8 billion for Urgent Care Clinics, there is no funding for one in Taree despite the clear case that has been presented to them over the past 12 months.

“There is a pittance for aged care which won’t even scratch the sides of the Support at Home Waitlist, or address provider and workforce shortages in the regions.”

However, Ms Penfold acknowledged several measures in line with her pre-budget submission.

These include $2 billion for housing infrastructure such as power, water and sewerage, an additional

round of the Stronger Communities Program, further funding for the Growing Regions Program and an extension of the Local Sporting Champions programs.

“A few small positives do not excuse a Budget that has fundamentally forgotten communities from the Hunter to the Hastings,” she said.

Key measures

In a joint statement, the Treasurer, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior ministers, described the Budget as being about "resilience and reform.”

“It’s all about getting Australians through the global oil shock and building an economy that works for more people.

“We’re delivering more cost-of-living help and building a more productive economy, a better tax system, a fairer housing market and a stronger and more sustainable budget,” the statement read.

The Budget focuses on cost-of-living relief, housing tax reform, and energy security.

A $31.5 billion deficit is forecast with $45 billion in improved revenue.

Key measures include: - Income Tax Cuts: From

July 1, 2026, the 16% tax rate for incomes $18,201–$45,000 drops to 15%.

- Worker Offset: A new $250 permanent Working Australians Tax Offset and a $1,000 instant tax deduction for work-related expenses.

- Medicare: Increased Medicare levy low-income thresholds.

- Negative Gearing: Limited to new builds, with existing investments grandfathered.

- Capital Gains Tax (CGT): The 50% CGT discount is scrapped and replaced by an indexation system to target real gains.

- Securing Australia’s near-term fuel and fertiliser security through Export Finance Australia’s $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility.

- Strengthening longer term fuel security with a $3.2 billion Australian Fuel Security Reserve.

- Boosting energy sovereignty by making more clean fuels in Australia, promoting electrification, and implementing a 20 percent gas reservation.

- Approvals: $500 million-plus to expedite environmental and project approvals using AI.

Confidence in councils Australia’s peak local government body, the Australian Local Government

Association, says the Federal Budget is a vote of confidence in the country’s 538 councils to deliver on national housing infrastructure priorities.

But it argues that more needs to be done to address the growing financial pressures threatening local government services across the country.

ALGA President Mayor Matt Burnett said councils were on the frontline of delivering national productivity, housing growth, climate resilience and essential local services, but needed to be backed to deliver.

“We welcome the Federal Government’s trust in local government to support

new housing and growing communities, through its announcement of $2 billion over four years to help deliver enabling infrastructure,” Mayor Burnett said.

“However, councils have not been given the same support to meet local community needs through secure untied funding and, in fact, support through Financial Assistance Grants has gone backwards as a share of Commonwealth taxation revenue.”

Mayor Burnett said the ALGA also welcomed the ongoing attention on local government sustainability through the Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Fiscal Sustainability.

Hastings Co-op continues to move forward with a strong focus on members, community, and longterm growth. Over recent months, the Co-op has continued investing in its businesses, member value, and community presence across the Hastings region. Including the transition to Redspot car rental, the refresh and rebrand of our Local Liquor store, expanded community initiatives, and the continued development of new member-focused opportunities.

As part of this next chapter, Hastings Co-op also wishes to update members on recent Board changes.

Hastings Co-op Changes in Board Directors

The Board of Hastings Co-operative would like to thank Rod Barnaby for his dedicated service and significant contribution to the Co-op over the past 9 years, after Rod stepped down from the Board earlier this year.

Rod joined the Board in 2017 and during that time chaired a number of committees including Marketing and Innovation, Governance and Nominations. Rod was a strong advocate for members and helped the Co-op navigate through a period of significant change and transformation.

Rod said, “I will continue to be an interested and engaged member of the Co-op and I wish both the Board and new Chief Executive Officer all the best as they take the Co-op forward into this exciting next period”.

Store

• Aussie Battlers

• Camden Haven Hardware

• North Haven Pharmacy • Petal & Plate

Pomegranate Clothing

Laurieton Footwear & Bowls • Propagation Station • Dunbogan Boatshed & Marina • Sunshine at Lake Cathie • Forgiving Foods

Laurieton Newsagency

• Street.Skate.Surf

• Dillon Rural

• Bonny Hills Garden Centre

• Mid Coast Eggs

Shop Local • Support Local • Win Local!

As a result of Rod’s departure, the Board are pleased to confirm the appointment of Craig Wearne to the Board of Hastings Co-operative to fill a casual board vacancy ahead of the 2026 Members Annual General Meeting.

Craig Wearne, GAICD, is joining the Board following his executive role as Chief Executive Officer at Garden Village and an extensive career in the health sector. Craig has a longstanding connection to the Hastings community, with a demonstrated commitment to supporting and advocating for its most vulnerable members. Craig is committed to effective governance and delivering to the members of the Co-op.

“I welcome Craig to the Board of Hastings Co-op and know that his commitment to strategy, governance and risk will be valued by myself and my board colleagues. This comes at an exciting time for the Co-op as new Chief Executive Officer, Dan Becker commences his leadership” said Louise Eyres, Chair Hastings Co-op.

Craig said, “I am honoured to join the Board of Hastings Co-operative in this casual position at this important time. I look forward to working collaboratively with members, fellow Directors and management to build on the Co-op’s strong foundations and proud history. Together, we will continue to strengthen the organisation, prioritising value for our members in everything we do, while also supporting the wider community.”.

As Hastings Co-op continues to evolve, members remain at the centre of everything we do. We

all members for their continued support and look forward to sharing further

and member opportunities in the months ahead.

Road funding fix needed for rural councils

RURAL residents are crying out for reliable roads, the state’s peak farming body has told an inquiry into local government funding and fiscal sustainability.

Last week, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport held hearings with more than 20 councils in Wodonga, Wagga Wagga and Taree.

Also present were representatives from organisations such as Regional Capitals Australia, NSW Country Mayors and NSW Farmers.

NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade Committee chair John Lowe appeared during the hearings, urging urgent reform to secure reliable funding for rural councils and critical local infrastructure.

“Councils in rural,

regional and remote areas have an enormous network of roads and they need greater certainty to maintain them, which supports farm businesses and community safety,” Mr Lowe said.

“Roads are the sole connection for many rural communities and farms, but too many councils are being forced to ‘patch and pray’ with unreliable, projectbased funding.”

NSW Farmers called on the Australian Government to restore Financial Assistance Grants to a minimum of 1 percent of total Commonwealth tax revenue, providing a stable funding base for local government and a stronger foundation for local road maintenance.

At the same time, Mr Lowe said, there needed to be a pause on special variation rates (SVR) and greater scrutiny on these

applications.

“Farm businesses cannot keep absorbing sudden, steep and cumulative rate rises as councils scramble to fill funding gaps due to cost shifting from state and federal governments,” Mr Lowe said.

“They need a fairer, more sustainable model that enables councils to have funding sustainability and effectively deliver for communities in the regions, especially roads.

“It’s also critical that all landholders contribute equitably and fairly –increasing property acquisitions and land use changes from National Parks, state forestry, biodiversity offsets by mining companies and electricity generation companies are reducing rateable land which can leave the burden to fall on others, including farmers.”

Last week’s hearings

Young artists on show

By Pauline CAIN

ARTEXPRESS, a showcase celebrating the creativity and achievements of HSC Visual Arts students from across New South Wales, is currently on display at The Glasshouse Gallery.

A joint initiative of the NSW Department of Education and the NSW Education Standards Authority, the exhibition opened locally on Saturday 9 May, with student artists travelling from across the state to be present.

“It is my great pleasure to present this wonderful

selection of work from 37 young artists,” said gallery curator Bridget Purtill.

”We love having the opportunity to host ARTEXPRESS here and the level of talent in this room is so incredibly inspiring.”

Marlene Neville, Arts Strategy and Programs Coordinator from the Arts Unit of the NSW Department of Education, was also present for the opening.

“The Glasshouse Gallery is a stunning space and there is a beautiful selection here for the community,” Marlene said.

”I am so pleased to see

so many students who have come to see their works exhibited - it is a very special thing.

“This is a celebration of art in our education system and what fine ambassadors these young people are of that.

“This exhibition gives us some insight into the thoughts, feelings and passions of young people.

“We are thrilled to be here in Port Macquarie, one of 10 regional galleries and a virtual gallery exhibiting student work across the state.”

Exhibition highlights emerging talent

THE Common Thread exhibition currently on show in Port Macquarie brings together the voices of artists participating in the Shared Practice mentoring program with Arts Mid North Coast, offering a compelling glimpse into the early stages of their creative development.

Presented at MAKE/ SPACE Port Macquarie in

Port Central, the exhibition features work by Lucy Juhnke, Kellie De Waal, Olivia Cotovich, Bee Hudson, Kelly Joy, Rosalyn Fuhrer, Anne de Nooijer, Joel Easson and Brad Collins. Together, their works form a considered snapshot of evolving ideas, processes and emerging artistic directions.

Shared Practice is an

featured a broad cross-section of regional stakeholders, including MidCoast, Port Macquarie-Hastings (PMHC), Dungog Shire and Maitland Shire councils.

PMHC’s General Manager Robert Fish and Director, Business and Performance, Keith Hentschke appeared in Taree.

In his opening statement to the Committee, Mr Fish said, “Our submission outlines a broader issue - that local government is facing a structural fiscal challenge, not a temporary funding shortfall.

“Over time, councils have been expected to carry broader and more complex responsibilities beyond our core services, which we seek to prioritise, and often were once the responsibility of other levels of government,” Mr Fish said.

“As well, in the Port

studied HSC Visual Arts in 2025.

Of those, 750 were nominated for ARTEXPRESS, from which 244 were selected to be exhibited.

One of the student artists is local.

MacKillop College’s Charlie Penn, who contributed a 3D animation titled ‘Eye of the Moth’ to the exhibition, was unable to attend the opening because he is overseas.

The exhibition will continue at The Glasshouse until 19 July.

Just over 9000 students

18-month artist development program that supports emerging and mid-career visual artists across the region.

“Shared Practice is about creating meaningful connections between artists, mentors and community,” said Programs Manager Skye Petho.

“Programs like this are vital in supporting artists to develop confidence in their practice while strengthening the creative sector across the Mid North Coast.”

Through mentoring from experienced artists, group sessions and professional development opportunities, the program encourages creative growth, artistic exploration and community engagement.

The exhibition will be open to the public from 13–23 May and will be staffed by participating artists, offering visitors the opportunity to engage directly with the makers behind the work.

Macquarie Hastings region, history has dictated we are prone to natural disasters and this has seen an acceleration in asset deterioration as cumulative impacts on council’s assets mountroads in particular.

“Severe weather events and flooding in recent years have shown that disaster preparedness, response, recovery and community adaptation are now business-as-usual funding responsibilities across all levels of government.”

Mr Hentschke added that the Port Macquarie Hastings LGA’s current population of 92,650 was projected to increase to more than 103,000 by 2035.

He said the council was advocating for annual funding programs that support longer term financial planning and the construction and renewal of complex infrastructure.

“To plan for this growth, we have two significant utilities projects requiring an investment of $400 million in coming years, being a water treatment plant at Cowarra that will ensure a reliable supply of filtered drinking water and a wastewater plant at Thrumster to accommodate current and future demand.

“However, this population growth continues while the revenue base available has remained tightly constrained.

“Councils are increasingly reliant on a fragmented system of tied, competitive and short-term grant programs to deliver services and assets that are ongoing and essential.

“Whereas routine annual funding supports local decision-making rather than forcing councils to chase restricted grants for specific projects.”

From banking to marine rescues

COURTNEY Greenslade is one of the success stories being shared by TAFE NSW to coincide with Careers Week.

Now living in Port Macquarie, she went from working in the banking industry to being an Inspector with Marine Rescue NSW on Sydney Harbour.

She now manages emergency responses for the Mid North Coast.

“I started marine rescue as a volunteer,” Ms Greenslade said.

“But I knew I liked what I was doing on my own time, outside my banking job, and when you know you know.”

To turn her passion into a career, she needed to reskill.

This led to three separate qualifications in maritime operations through TAFE.

“I’ve found a career where professional and personal growth never stops.

“I’m always learning

and I think that’s important in any job.”

Stories like Ms Greenslade’s highlight demand for practical, jobready training - one of the objectives of National Careers Week, 11-17 May.

Promoted by the Career Industry Council of Australia (CICA), it aims to shine a spotlight on the economic, social and personal benefits of lifelong learning.

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, total employment is forecast to increase by around 6.5 percent over the next five years, driven by strong demand across sectors

including health care and social assistance, professional services, education, and technical industries.

TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read, said workforce change is opening new pathways for people to enter these highdemand jobs.

“As industries evolve, workforce needs are changing quickly, and training needs to keep pace so people can access emerging opportunities with confidence.”

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said this week’s focus on changing careers was a reminder of TAFE’s role in delivering vocational training and education across growing industries.

CWA branches debate record number of motions

By Pauline CAIN

THE Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW held its 104th annual State Conference from 3-7 May, hosted by the Mid North Coast Group at Club Forster.

The conference was attended by over 600 delegates and observers.

They spent four days debating a record number of more than 50 policy and six urgency motions from branches across the state.

Tanya Jolly, president of the CWA of NSW, said the urgency motions that come before the conference each year reflect issues of immediate and high concern to members and their communities.

This year, vulnerabilities around fuel security were front of mind.

“The announcement by the Federal Government this week that the budget will include a $10 billion funding package aimed at increasing Australia's fuel stockpiles is certainly welcome

and a step in the right direction when it comes to questions of fuel security,” she said.

“But it’s imperative now that we maintain this momentum, and the CWA of NSW will be doing all it can to keep our regulators firmly focused on this issue.”

Ms Jolly said it was also gratifying to see the urgency motion on maintaining critical roads over the Great Dividing Range pass unanimously, and the motion related to opposition to compulsory land acquisition for the likes of

roads and pipelines.

“Critical road links between the coast and western NSW, like the Waterfall Way, Oxley Highway and Great Western Highway, have been closed or seriously impacted recently, and in the case of the Great Western Highway across the Blue Mountains, that closure appears to be longterm.

“It not only impacts NSW residents’ ability to travel across their state and get where they need to go, it has severe economic impacts on

the communities in those areas.

“When these major roads are closed, too, the bypasses that are put in place often have to be on secondary roads that aren’t designed to withstand high volumes of traffic, causing major damage and compromising the safety of motorists.”

In line with CWA current Medical Research Project focus, the association also presented $45,000 to Pankind Australia, to assist with pancreatic cancer research.

Bream firing and mulloway on the move

By Kate SHELTON

THE Mid North Coast has seen consistent showers over the past week, and while a sprinkle or two is just part of the deal for dedicated anglers, we’re all keeping an eye out for some extended sunshine.

These consistent showers are great for the long-term health of our waterways, though the forecast suggests the damp trend will stick around for the rest of May.

In the Hastings River, the recent weather has stirred up the estuary, turning the water a slight brown.

Because of this, you’ll find the best action toward the lower reaches and the river mouth where the water is a bit clearer.

Despite the murk, bream fishing remains

fantastic; daytime lure fishers were doing well with soft vibes before the showers, while bait anglers are still pulling in solid catches on mullet strips.

Flathead are also biting well in the lower Hastings on both lures and traditional baits like whitebait and prawns.

For those chasing bigger prizes, some massive mulloway (up to 20kg!) have been landed around the Coal Wharf. Meanwhile, the rock fishing scene is all about tailor right now.

Local ledges from Port Macquarie up to Plomer are producing great numbers, with garfish and large lures doing the heavy lifting.

Drummer numbers are also starting to climb, which is a promising sign for the coming weeks.

Along the beaches,

bream remain reliable, particularly during evening sessions on pilchards or slab baits.

If you're hitting North Beach or Lighthouse, worms and pipis are the go-to for bream and the occasional whiting.

Offshore, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.

The inshore reefs south toward Lighthouse have seen appearances from cobia, mackerel and tuna, while those trolling closer to shore are finding plenty of bonito and tailor. Bottom bashers aren't missing out either, with quality snapper and pearl perch reported.

Further south, the Diamond Head ledges are holding quality tailor up to 2.5kg.

On the sand, school mulloway are active around Dunbogan and Lake Cathie.

With the mullet

now traveling and tailor numbers holding steady, we expect to see some even larger predators moving in soon.

Offshore, Snapper up to 5kg are being caught on bait, with pearl perch and kingfish showing up on the deeper reefs.

The Macleay River is the place to be for luderick fans, as numbers have spiked along the breakwalls.

Green weed is the prize bait, but cabbage and weed flies are also doing the trick.

Bream fishers are equally happy, with consistent catches coming from Back Creek and the breakwalls.

Aim for an evening session with mullet strips if you’re looking to land the bigger models.

New cycling track proposal

By Rachael THORPE

THE National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)

Draft Lake Innes Plan of Management (February 2026) proposal to extend the

Googik Track to Lake Cathie received more than 300 submissions in support.

This has prompted a local Bicycle User Group [BUG], Better By Bicycle Port Macquarie, to lodge a

new proposal to create a cycling link between the Port Macquarie town centre and the Googik Track.

The group believes that their idea to connect existing shared paths to

create a continuous route through scenic forest would be popular with locals and attract cycling tourists to the area.

Group President Felicity Forth believes the proposal

presents a great opportunity for the region.

“This could be a huge win for the Port Macquarie community,” she said.

“If constructed, the 3.7 km link track would mean people could ride or walk safely from the Town Green or caravan park 10 km to the Ruins Gate almost entirely

Coalition rejects rival camp after losing swag of votes

By Andrew BROWN, AAP

THE coalition remains confident its devastating loss at the Farrer by-election will be a one-off, rejecting suggestions it should form a political alliance with One Nation.

David Farley became One Nation's first candidate to be elected to the House of Representatives, breaking more than 70 years of coalition rule in the southern NSW seat on Saturday.

The victory has raised the prospect of One Nation taking other regional seats

and targeting outer suburban electorates, which could force the decimated coalition to seek the support of Senator Pauline Hanson's party in a bid to form government.

Nationals Leader Matt Canavan remained optimistic the coalition could reclaim the regional electorate, as well as heading off the threat of One Nation in other electorates.

"This is like a twolegged final, perhaps we played an away match on the weekend, where it was difficult circumstances at a by-election.

“Next time, we might be on a home-ground advantage when the choice of government is up for grabs," he told reporters in Canberra on Monday.

"In terms of lessons, I think it's very different than what we'll see at a federal election."

While Senator Hanson said she would work with Liberals and Nationals to form a government, she said her party would not be part of a formal coalition.

"I will give them supply and confidence... they can form a government with my numbers, I'm quite happy to do that," she told Sydney radio station 2GB on Monday.

"I don't want ministerial positions, because I'm not going to be the tail on the dog... because (the Liberals) have done that with the National Party."

Senator Hanson said she felt vindicated by the Farrer by-election result.

"I've been pillaged and ridiculed and put down, and you know, everything thrown at me," she said.

Senator Canavan ruled out any coalition agreement with One Nation in order to form a government.

"One Nation itself this morning was saying they have no interest in joining a coalition with us, and the feeling is mutual," he said.

The Liberal primary vote tanked to 12.4 percent, more than 30 percentage points down on the share secured

a year earlier by Sussan Ley before her ousting as party leader and subsequent resignation.

But senior Liberals have rejected calls to enter into a coalition with One Nation to ensure their party's longevity.

Shadow treasurer Tim Wilson on Sunday did not rule out a possible coalition with One Nation, saying it was up to the Australian people to decide who they want to vote for.

But the following day, he said he had never supported the idea.

"The reality is, the leader of that party has already declared that she won't form a coalition with us and I have no interest in forming a coalition with them," he told reporters in Canberra.

One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce said the party was looking to replicate its success in western Sydney and was already speaking to potential candidates.

"What they've seen is that the polling is not an aberration," he told Seven's Sunrise program.

"It's now been validated by both South Australia and Farrer. There is a strong following out there."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the coalition's loss in Farrer was not surprising.

"It's pretty clear that the traditional coalition parties, the Liberal Party and the National Party, don't really stand for anything anymore," he told Cairns radio station 4CA.

"I'm not sure that One Nation's appeal will go beyond the sort of seat that we've seen and where they traditionally have done OK."

off road and through lush, forested areas.”

The group calculates that the link trail would require less than 350 metres of shared pathway to be installed, making it a lowcost, high-impact project that would provide practical benefits, and long-lasting value to the region.

In principle support has been given by NPWS, the Friends of Kooloongbung Creek Nature Reserve, and Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dywer.

“I congratulate Felicity and her team for developing this proposal and I will do what I can to support them and any funding opportunities,” Mr Dwyer said.

“A proposal to get bicycles off the roads and onto designated pathways not only improves safety but also encourages riders to better enjoy the great outdoors.”

The group’s next step is to present the proposal to the Council Community Forum on 18 May.

More information is available on bbbpmq.net.au.

Photographers share

‘Impressions of Nature’

By Pauline CAIN

DENISE McDermott and Giang Duong are wellknown photographers in the Hastings.

Their latest photographic exhibition, “Impressions Of Nature”, is currently on show at the Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery in Gladstone and will close this Sunday 17 May.

The women reflect on how nature influences both art and our own perceptions of the world.

Giang says, “The artworks capture fleeting moments and the transient effects of light on the

landscape.

“It’s a celebration of movement, light and colour.

“It’s a perspective, a way of seeing the world.”

Denise says, “Viewers are invited to abandon preconceived notions, to embrace the beauty in the ordinary, and to see the world through a different lens.”

“It’s about capturing a moment in time, a fleeting emotion, a spark of beauty that is there one second, and gone the next.”

Denise or Giang will be at the gallery each day to talk to visitors and answer questions.

The gallery is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am to 4pm.

FOR many in our community, hard work in industries like timber, road building, manufacturing, construction and mining has been a way of life.

But for some, that work has come at a hidden cost.

Diseases caused by asbestos and silica dust often take decades to appear.

By the time symptoms develop, the connection to past employment may not be immediately obvious.

Yet under New South Wales law, people diagnosed with dust diseases may be entitled to significant compensation - even if exposure occurred many years ago.

Carter Hawkins Lawyers is a specialist firm dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by dust disease.

With a strong focus on client care, the firm assists with claims through the Dust Diseases Tribunal and the Dust Board (iCare), guiding clients through what can often be a complex and emotional process.

Importantly, exposure is not limited to a single workplace.

Many cases arise from years spent working across local power stations, coal mines, construction sites and industrial employers throughout regional New South Wales.

Even brief or secondary exposure can be enough to cause serious illness.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a dust-related condition, it is worth seeking advice. Early guidance can make a meaningful difference - not just financially, but in securing support and peace of mind for the future.

Carter Hawkins offer a free in-home consultation to discuss your entitlements.

You can then decide whether to proceed with a claim from there.

Venue raises awareness of DFV Dance challenge to help sick kids

By Bill HARROW

CLUB Lake Cathie joined other registered clubs throughout New South Wales in a day of action last week focused on reducing the

rates of domestic and family violence (DFV).

Aligned with Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, “Purple Friday” is a state-wide social impact initiative that shines

a spotlight on the club industry’s role in prevention, early intervention and community support.

On Friday, 8 May clubs across NSW “turned purple” by dressing staff in purple shirts, hats or badges; decorating venues purple; using digital screens, websites and social media to share awareness messages; and starting conversations about respect, safety and support within their communities.

Clubs NSW say these actions “help amplify awareness, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help when they need it”.

At Lake Cathie’s bowling club, conversations were actively encouraged, while

posters were displayed carrying the details of available support services.

“We are standing together to raise awareness around domestic violence as it’s something not always talked about,” said Rhys Birrane, Venue Manager of Club Lake Cathie.

“It’s about starting conversations and providing a safe open environment for people to talk about it.”

According to statistics offered by Clubs NSW, one in four women will experience domestic or family violence, while at least 77 women and 26 children were lost to domestic violence in Australia in 2025.

Trackwork on railway lines

THE Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will carry out maintenance and improvement works on the Hunter Valley and North Coast rail corridors this weekend to maintain safety and reliability.

The works will take place between:

- Telarah in New South Wales to Acacia Ridge in Queensland from 5:00am Saturday 16 May to 7:30pm Monday 18 May

- Hamilton to Turrawan in New South Wales from 3:00am Saturday 16 May to 3:00am Tuesday 19 May.

The shutdown is part of ARTC’s annual maintenance program.

Work will be delivered across more than 180 sites on the North Coast and Hunter lines including rerailing, bridge and structural upgrades, a level crossing upgrade at Casino and signalling works.

ARTC says its crews will minimise the impact of the work wherever possible, including positioning light towers to shine away from residences, watering down work areas and limiting the number of machines

operating at any one time.

Coaches and buses will replace NSW TrainLink services during the trackwork period and customers are encouraged to visit Transportnsw.info or call 13 22 32 for assistance in planning their journey.

Information on road closures or diversions and alternative routes can be found at livetraffic.com.

ARTC is reminding motorists and pedestrians to remain vigilant for altered traffic conditions near the rail corridor, pay attention to signage and to obey all road

rules at level crossings, with rail machinery active on rail lines.

Clinton Crump, Group Executive Operations, ARTC said, “The rail network requires regular maintenance to ensure that it continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the region’s economic supply chain and travel connections to communities in New South Wales and Southeast Queensland.

“The program of works is designed to minimise disruption to passenger and freight services, and

By Rachael THORPE

RONALD McDonald House

has been an institution in Australia since 1981, with the organisation annually assisting more than 89,000 families of seriously ill children.

Jesica Vlahovic spent time in one as a child and has retained an affection for the charity that she has passed onto her children, especially 13-yearold daughter Adrijana Riethmuller.

An accomplished and dedicated dancer, Adrijana recently undertook a challenge to dance continuously for 30 minutes every day for a week.

Jesica told News Of The Area, “As a mum I am incredibly proud.

“This kind of thing is outside Adrijana’s comfort zone, so she was quite nervous.

“But I love seeing her advocate for things like this, which are so important.”

Adrijana is in her

third year of dance across multiple styles and dreams of dancing professionallyor becoming a pilot.

She was recently selected to represent her school, St Joseph’s Regional College in Port Macquarie, in dancing.

Individual sponsorships, and donations from Camden Haven businesses, enabled Adrijana to raise $1200.

The funds will go towards reducing financial stress on families by providing a home away from home during their child’s treatment.

ARTC would like to thank the Hunter Valley and North Coast communities for their patience while these critical, long-term improvements take place.”

Critical renewable energy projects to be fast-tracked

PROPOSED legislation currently before the NSW Legislative Assembly would allow the Energy Minister to identify the highest-priority renewable energy projects in the planning pipeline and prioritise them for streamlining.

The NSW Government says it would result in more streamlined approvals for generation, storage and network projects that will power homes, industry and economic growth.

However, it also states the proposed law would not remove any environmental or community assessment

requirements, with developers still needing to meet all relevant planning, environmental and consultation obligations.

“Priority energy projects must demonstrate best practice in how they work with landholders and communities, particularly in regional NSW,” the NSW Government said in a statement.

“The Energy Legislation Amendment (Prioritising Renewable Energy) Bill 2026 will also support the effective and consistent implementation of the NSW Benefit-Sharing Guideline, ensuring councils and

communities hosting projects receive associated benefits.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said the government is committed to ensuring reliable, affordable energy for heavy industries like the Tomago aluminium smelter, and to power economic growth across the state.

“This new legislation will mean infrastructure projects that are critical for manufacturing jobs, economic growth and energy affordability don’t get stuck in the queue,” she said.

“No matter where you live in this state, you will benefit

from us getting on with the job and delivering quality renewable projects as fast as we can.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “With a growing pipeline of energy projects ahead of us, we need a planning system that can support achieving our ambitious energy targets.

“These reforms will also make sure critical projects are not being delayed by objections from people thousands of kilometres away who will never be impacted by them – NSW locals should and will have the loudest voice.”

The move has been met

with discontent from sections of the agriculture industry, with NSW Farmers warning that rushing approvals will deepen community distress, entrench an unfair power imbalance between large developers and landholders, and generate more objections and conflict.

NSW Farmers Energy Taskforce chair Reg Kidd described the government’s new approvals plan as “reckless”.

“Farmers have not been given realistic timeframes to understand proposals and participate meaningfully, or object where necessary,” Mr

Kidd said.

“We've been working hard with EnergyCo and the government to improve engagement and get better consultation and we don't want to derail that process –these issues can’t be rushed.

“Under current arrangements, communities are often expected to respond to highly technical Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) within weeks.

“If this is fast-tracked even more, additional pressure will be put on timepoor landholders already distressed and stretched.”

Rare Humpback behaviour discovered

A NEW paper co-authored by Macquarie University lecturer and renowned whale scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta highlights the importance of ‘citizen scientists’ who have been integral in exposing a newly observed Humpback whale behaviour.

The paper released by Macquarie University on 4 May, ahead of Australia’s annual Humpback Day (6 May), explores the distinct action of ‘gaping’, where whales have been observed

opening their mouths widely, without clear reason.

Dr Pirotta says the study, analysing 66 internet and social media instances of gaping, shows how tourists, whale-watch operators and drone users can provide valuable scientific observations.

“Just when we think we know a lot about humpback whales, we don’t,” she said.

“Tourism operators and citizen scientists spend hours observing whales and

are a powerful resource for capturing and reporting on behaviour, using the increasingly high-quality technologies many of us have on hand.”

The gaping was captured by onlookers in a range of situations – from boats (above water) during swim-withwhale activities (underwater) and with drones.

“It was so unusual to see this happen and when I heard the commentary of people watching it, I knew it was

rare,” says Dr Pirotta.

It included both adults and calves and was mostly seen when there were other whales nearby.

Notably, it happened outside whales' usual feeding routines.

The research suggests a range of reasons for the behaviour including communication, social/ playful behaviour, exploring ocean debris (particularly for calves) or an incidental jaw stretching or separation.

Friday Afternoon Golfers

By Colin EVERINGHAM

FRIDAY

Bogie Bandits Social Golf

By Colin EVERINGHAM

TUESDAY

Wauchope Mixed Bowls

By Marie WINTER

MONDAY 11th May 2026

in perfect weather for lawn bowls and all the ladies enjoying a free game to celebrate mothers day at the Wauchope Country Club.

The lucky winning marble no.4 roll were Mike

McNeilly, John Mc Greger and Jenny Caller, this team managed to win by 1 on the last end.

The runners up were rink 6 a pairs game of Gina Wiseman and Marie Winter

The lucky losing marble was rink 5 Fred De Waard, Sue Greenfield and

Betty Ezzy

The jackpot went to rink 3 who picked 15 but the number was 13 , the jackpot will roll forward to next week.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Ian x 2, Kath, Carol , Fay x 2, Lachie, Betty

Hastings Ladies Social Golf

By Leonie MULVIHILL

MONDAY 11th May.

Stableford 3 Clubs and Putter. Mother’s Day Trophy. 52 players.

Division 1: Winner Faye

O’Brien 23 points

Runner Up Leonie

Mulvihill 20 points

Division 2: Winner June

Dunlop 20 points

Runner Up Jan McFarlane 15 points

Division 3: Winner Deb Broome 16 points

Runner Up Robyn Cobban 15 points c/b

Liz Lewis and Barbara Collins 15 points

Division 4: Winner Linda Murphy 18 points

Runner Up Anne-Marie Cecil 14 points

NTP: 2nd hole Carol Gleeson, 9th hole Faye O’Brien

Birdies: Faye O’Brien 9th hole

Gobblers: Jo Collin 5th hole, Faye O’Brien 4th hole, Eva Curlisa 6th hole Overall Winner: Faye O’Brien.

Lucky Numbers: Angela Ayres and Mary Butler

Wauchope Women's Bowling Club

AFL North Coast Round 5 wrap

By Aiden BURGESS

THE COFFS Harbour Breakers have kept their unbeaten start to the season intact with a 10.6 (66) to 6.9 (45) win against the Port Macquarie Magpies in Port Macquarie.

The Sawtell/Toormina Saints snapped a two-match

losing streak with a 15.9 (99) to 10.6 (66) win against the Northern Beaches Blues at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.

Reserves

The Port Macquarie Magpies remain undefeated after a 10.12 (72) to 2.1 (13) win against the Grafton Tigers.

Northern Beaches Blues had a 6.7 (43) to 5.7 (37) win against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints.

Women’s

The Sawtell/Toormina Saints kept their undefeated record intact with an 8.11 (59) to 3.0 (18) win against the Northern Beaches Blues.

The Coffs Harbour Breakers defeated the Port Macquarie Magpies by 4.6 (30) to 1.7 (13).

Under 18s

The Port Macquarie Magpies continued their undefeated start to the season after having a 10.11 (71) to 2.10 (22) win against Coffs

Wins for Pirates, Snappers

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour Snappers have continued their unbeaten start to the season after having a dominant 5721 win against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Port Macquarie.

The Port Macquarie Pirates were also victorious in Round 3 of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season, edging out the Grafton Redmen 29-26 in Grafton.

Coffs Harbour Snappers reserves continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 12-3 win against the Hastings Valley Vikings.

Harbour Breakers/Nambucca Valley.

Round 6

The AFL North Coast season continues this weekend with Round 6 games in Coffs Harbour and Sawtell.

After playing off last weekend, the Coffs Harbour Breakers and Port Macquarie Magpies meet in an instant rematch at Fitzroy Oval.

Sawtell/Toormina Saints

By Marie WINTER

7th MAY 2026.

The winners with the lowest margin were Sue Petterson, Marie Winter and Fay Paine.

The losers with the highest score were Yvonne Carmichael, Julie Samuelsson and Kath Sweeney.

The jackpot no.2 was Lil Allen who was not playing and the jackpot will roll forward.

The raffle prizes were picked up from Doris McKinnon, Sue Petterson, Patricia Fletcher, and Sally Webber.

On Saturday 9th May 2026 trial games of Consistency bowls were played at the Wauchope Country Club. The winner was Glenda Elford and the lucky loser was Marie Aitken. The jackpot no 13 was won by Pat Coombes. The raffle prizes were picked up by Pat Coombes, Marie Winter x 2 and Jenny Wooster

and Grafton Tigers reserves play off at Richardson Park. Senior men’s ladder. 1.Coffs Harbour Breakers. 16 points. 4 wins. 0 losses. 234.01%. 2.Port Macquarie Magpies. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. 141.74%. 3.Sawtell/ Toormina Saints. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. 98.94%. 4.Northern Beaches Blues. 0 points. 0 wins. 4 losses. 35.45%.

The Kempsey Cannonballs women had a 45-20 win against the SCU Marlins.

The Mid North Coast

The SCU Marlins reserves had their first win of the season, a 24-14 victory against the Kempsey Cannonballs at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

Rugby Union Northern Division season takes a break this weekend with a bye round for the NSW Country Championships. First grade ladder

1.Coffs Harbour Snappers. 15 points. 3 wins. 0 losses. Points differential (p.d): 79. 2.Port Macquarie

Mid Coast FC teams flying in 2026

MID Coast Football Club (MCFC) will compete in the Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) Premier Youth League Boys (PYLB) “League A” competition after finishing fifth in the Phase 1 club championship standings after 11 rounds.

MCFC will now compete in Phase 2 of the NNSWF PYLB League A from June 2026 in a 16 round (home

and away) competition against top sides including Edgeworth FC, Lambton Jaffas FC, Newcastle Olympic FC, Maitland FC, North Coast Football, Lake Macquarie City FC, Broadmeadow Magic FC and Valentine FC. Based on the Mid North Coast with home ground facilities at Taree, MCFC offers developing footballers from Bulahdelah to South West

Rocks the opportunity to represent their region against some of the best competition in northern NSW.

MCFC enters teams in U18, U16, U15, U14 & U13 Boys age divisions.

The MCFC Premier Youth League Girls (PYLG) are also off to a flying start in 2026, currently sitting on top of the PYLG Club Championship after 12 rounds.

MCFC competes in the U17, U15 and U13 Girls age divisions.

“The outstanding football performances and consistency of effort by the MCFC youth players across all the age groups during Phase 1 2026 has elevated the standard for the NSW Mid North Coast to a new level and will inspire many future MCFC players ahead,” MCFC

Secretary Hayley De Somma said.

“We are so proud of all the PYLB and PYLG players and their families who commit to travel each week up and down the coast to train and play.

“They are now rewarded with the opportunity to compete at the very highest PYL level for the rest of 2026.

“In recognition of all the

Pirates. 9 points. 2 wins. 0 losses. (p.d): 5. 3.Hastings Valley Vikings. 6 points. 1 win. 2 losses. (p.d): -36. 4.Grafton Redmen. 4 points. 0 wins. 2 losses. (p.d): -8. 5.Kempsey Cannonballs. 2 points. 0 wins. 2 losses. (p.d): -40.

time and effort, a special thanks must go to all our individual team and specialist coaches, managers and all our volunteers and committee members - including field maintenance and canteen convenors - who help to run the club each week, as well as our sponsors, supporters, duty officers and referees. “They make each game possible.”

We may never get the chance again

DEAR News Of The Area.

I BELIEVE Port MacquarieHastings Councillors will soon have their say on the Ocean Pool.

Let’s hope they listen to the 74 percent of the community that support the idea and vote yes on May 21.

Given that Council won’t have to fund construction, I wonder has there ever been a bigger or better idea for such a small cost?

C’mon Councillors tick this box and sort out the small details later on, we might never get this chance again.

Regards, Margaret ADAMS, Port Macquarie.

Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Letters to the Editor

NEWS Verse of the week

Feral pig control

WITH dry seasonal conditions being experienced in many parts of the region, North Coast Local Land Services (LLS) is urging producers to act early on feral pig control.

As feed and water become limited, feral pigs are concentrating around remaining resources, increasing the risk of damage to crops, pastures and infrastructure, and putting additional pressure on livestock production systems.

North Coast LLS biosecurity staff say these seasonal conditions create a critical window for control programs, where well-planned action can deliver stronger results.

Dean Chamberlain, Team Leader for Invasive Pests for North Coast LLS said, “We are working with landholders to deliver largescale control across priority areas.

“This includes the distribution of free grain to support baiting and trapping programs, supply of traps, the deployment of dedicated feral pig control contractors and coordinated ground baiting programs.”

To stay ahead of population growth, landholders are encouraged to take a strategic

approach that combines multiple control methods and aligns with seasonal conditions and farm operations.

Effective programs typically include:

• using free feeding to establish consistent feeding patterns prior to control activities

• selecting appropriate trap types and locations based on feral pig behaviour and movement

• combining control methods such as trapping and baiting to increase effectiveness

• following up initial control within three months to maintain pressure on populations

• coordinating control programs with neighbours to maximise impact across the landscape.

Feral pigs are highly adaptable and reproduce rapidly, making ongoing control essential.

A single sow can produce up to two litters per year, with as many as 10–12 piglets per litter, allowing populations to recover quickly if control efforts are not sustained.

By Lynne MILES

Sows can breed as early as six months in favourable conditions.

“Continued control is critical to further suppress populations, particularly as pigs become more exposed and vulnerable due to reduced food availability and limited ground cover,” Dean said.

Conducting control programs ahead of key production periods, such as crop establishment, can help reduce production losses and protect valuable inputs.

Feral pig control also helps protect biodiversity and reduce biosecurity risks, with feral pigs capable of damaging native habitats and spreading weeds, parasites and diseases.

Local Land Services is supporting landholders through the NSW Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025–26, which provides access to practical tools and resources to improve control outcomes.

Landholders are encouraged to seek advice to ensure control programs are well planned and compliant with requirements.

For more information or tailored advice, contact your local biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299 or visit the Local Land Services website.

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

I find there are times during my working day when I lack energy or wonder at the futility of an office job. How do I keep my momentum going for the next 45 years?

Melissa W.

Dear Melissa,

I had some general ideas for you and was about to start composing my response when I came to the number at the end of your conundrum. If any of us looked at the sum total of our time doing anything we would be stressed.

There is a wonderful short story by David Eagleman called 'Sum', a fictitious account of the afterlife where everything in a lifetime is grouped.

In the story, the narrator describes how the average person would spend thirty years asleep, experience 27 hours of intense pain in one hit, and 15 months looking for lost items, amongst other things.

The point I am making with this reference is that you cannot envisage the next 45 years of your working life in an office in isolation and remain sane.

You need to break your working life down into achievable chunks, for example: If you can get through

the next two hours, Marie from sales and marketing will bring in a vanilla slice after her weekly bakery run. The sugar hit that releases will give you about 30 minutes of adrenaline and positivity. If you can extend that to 45 minutes by adding a double-shot coffee, you will probably make it to the 2pm staff meeting where Julie from accounts will drone on about profit and loss stats for about half an hour.

If you can stretch the meeting to 3pm, there is every probability you will make it to knock-off time. There is also absolutely no guarantee you will be in an office job for the next 45 years. In fact it is extremely unlikely.

Many people have up to seven career changes.

For all you know, in a decade from now you may have retrained to be a dietician or a paramedic or a spin class instructor.

In that final example, you will be so full of exerciseinduced dopamine that you'll be positively bursting with energy and enthusiasm.

So, Melissa, try to find the positives in your workday, when you leave work focus on enjoyable life activities that have nothing to do with being in the office, and, if you really do find your current job futile, I'd recommend looking at alternatives. You sound young enough to be in a position to do further education and training. It would be a real shame if you looked back on your working life with regret.

The rules of war

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WOULD like to say I agree with Keith Wilkinson (8 May Edition).

I too have read a couple of Pete Sobey's letters and think that he means well but like me has never been in a war situation with bullets and rockets whizzing around your head and of course IEDs as you patrol along roads etc.

I won't get involved with debate over Ben Roberts-Smith but I do support him rather than not.

This brings me to a documentary I saw about ten years or more ago about an English journalist who was allowed to go on patrol with British soldiers in Afghanistan.

During filming an 18-year-old soldier was fatally wounded with a

shot to the head causing obvious reactions from the remaining soldiers.

The patrol observed a small two storey building a short distance away and there was movement in and about a window.

The patrol kept to procedure, however after some time had elapsed a taxi pulled up and two men dressed in perahan o tunbans walked out of the building and got in the cab and left.

If the soldiers had engaged with these men it would have been against the rules of engagement and a war crime.

So basically rules for one and rules for another and by the way these soldiers were deployed under the UN.

Regards, Paul ANDERSON, Port Macquarie.

SUDOKU

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BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY EUROVISION SONG CONTEST

SBS, 5am (live) and 7.30pm (access all areas)

Music fans turn their attention to Vienna this weekend as the Austrian capital hosts the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. While die-hard devotees will likely catch the 5am (AEST) semi-final broadcasts live on Wednesday and Friday morning ahead of Sunday’s grand final, casual viewers are best advised to tune in for this access-all-areas pass. Aussie commentators Courtney Act and Danny Estrin present all of the action from the first semi-final tonight, while Saturday’s primetime broadcast includes a dazzling performance from pop powerhouse Delta Goodrem (pictured). Her entry, “Eclipse”, is a quintessential power ballad with an epic key change that’s tailor-made to take on the competition.

MONDAY

THE

FLOOR

NBN, 7.30pm

FRIDAY, May 15

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This say-what-you-see trivia game could be the easiest money on Australian TV. There’s no need to tough it out in the jungles of Samoa , spend months renovating a high-end home for or create fine-dining

MasterChef; simply perform well in a few 90-second quiz battles and a $200,000 prize could be yours. Even host Rodger Corser (pictured) appears to be on easy street – a computer screen handles the questions for him. In Monday’s secondseason finale, just eight contestants remain standing on the giant illuminated board. As they face off in both their own specialist subjects and those they’ve inherited from fallen rivals, all bets are off. It’s winner takes all.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 1.45 Bad Company. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Eurovision Song Contest. 7.30 Cycling. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.30 WorldWatch. 10.00 Legacy List. (R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS NewsHour. 2.05 Cotswolds And Beyond. (PG, R) 3.35 The Cook Up With Adam Liaw. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Clarence Slockee explores diverse foliage plants.

8.30 Patience. (Final, Mv) Patience and Frankie are held hostage.

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

9.55 Urzila. (Mls, R)

10.20 ABC Late News.

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

11.25 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R)

12.15 Love Me. (MA15+, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

10.00 Rock Legends: Chicago. (PGa, R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 The King. (MA15+s)

11.55 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv, R)

1.50 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

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

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 10. Sydney v Collingwood. From the SCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.

11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

1.20 Quacks. (Mads)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

TUESDAY

SHAUN MICALLEF’S GOING FOR BROKE

ABC TV, 8pm

In his 2020 docuseries

On the Sauce, teetotal comedian Shaun Micallef (pictured) tapped into Australia’s drinking culture, getting hands on with booze for the first time in 30 years. In this new three-parter, Micallef applies a similar approach to another national pastime: gambling. Its appeal is not something the comic has ever understood – he’s never even played the pokies – but with his young sons and their friends bombarded by gambling ads, he decides to take a closer look. Tuesday’s premiere begins with an afternoon of sports betting, before a game of two-up on Anzac Day and discovering how poker machines are programmed to cast a spell on players. For support, call Gambler’s Help (1800 858 858).

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Dolphins.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran is pushed to the brink. Sylvester Stallone.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword. (2017, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Wrath Of The Titans. (2012, M) Midnight Seinfeld. 12.30 Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.30 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.45 Cards And Collectables Australia.

Oink. Continued. (2022, PG, Dutch) 6.25 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 8.15 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 10.20 A Singular Crime. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.25pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.20 Vai. (2019, PG) 4.00 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 5.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 7.35 Groundhog Day. (1993, PG) 9.30 The Full Monty. (1997, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple’s house is too small. 8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the

SATURDAY, May 16

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 1.30 Patience. (Final, Mv, R) 2.20 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. (Final, R) 3.10 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. (Final, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Sharon takes a shine to Kel’s best friend.

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 Death In Paradise. (PG) The team investigates the death of a business owner.

8.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+) Nikki conducts an unusual post-mortem. DNA evidence forces the team to seek advice from an unexpected quarter.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mv, R) Bergerac and Barney’s relationship reaches breaking point.

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

10.00 The Wonders Of Europe: Schonbrunn Palace. (PG, R) Looks at  Vienna’s Schonbrunn Palace.

11.00 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R) Layton and Wilford vie for the upper hand.

1.40 The Kingdom. (Ma, R) Marc Fennell investigates Hillsong.

3.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 Bamay: Murrumbidgee River – Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri And Ngarigo Country. (R)

5.00 Eurovision Song Contest.

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

8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. Shane Jacobson buys a rundown country pub sight unseen and attempts to bring it back to life.

8.30 MOVIE: The Day After Tomorrow. (2004, Ma, R) A climatologist tries to save his family after the planet is plunged into a sudden ice age. Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Emmy Rossum.

11.00 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.00 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm. 9.40 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match.

10.00 MOVIE: City Of Lies. (2018, MA15+lv, R)

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

1.00 Tasman Trails. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

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

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A bulldog has lost its spark.

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple must decide whether to move or not.

8.30 Building The Dream. Architectural designer Charlie Luxton helps first-time builders design budget-friendly homes that suit their lifestyles.

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Room On The Broom.

Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.45 Merlin. 11.25 Late Programs.

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6.10am

Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 8.00 Vai. (2019, PG) 9.40 Oink. (2022, PG, Dutch) 11.05 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 12.50pm Cat Call. (2023, M, Hungarian) 2.30 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 4.20 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.20 The Way Ahead. (1944, PG) 8.30 Crossing Over. (2009, MA15+) 10.35 The Sex Of The Angels. (2012, MA15+, Spanish) 12.35am Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 17

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 3.15 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. (PGa, R) 4.10 Grand Designs. (Final, R)

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Dave Hughes. (PGa)

8.15 Bad Company. (PGn) Margie decides to become social media famous.

8.40 Bergerac. (Mal) Bergerac’s pursuit of Monica has severe consequences.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) The team investigates the death of a business owner.

10.30 Silent Witness. (MA15+, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach.

Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper Crew. 8.10 Secrets At Red Rocks. 8.30 Animal Park. 10.00 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.45 Merlin. 11.30 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision Song Contest. (PG) Hosted by Courtney Act and Danny Estrin.

12.00 MOVIE: Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song. (2021, Ml, R)

2.05 Matched. (PG, R)

2.55 A Certain Mother. (PGan, R)

4.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 PBS News Horizons.

MOVIES (32)

6am The Orator. Continued. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.10 Howl’s Moving Castle. (2004, PG) 9.20 Vai. (2019, PG) 11.00 Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 12.55pm Close. (2022, M, Dutch) 2.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 4.30 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.10 Sabrina. (1995, PG) 8.30 Past Lives. (2023, Korean) 10.30 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 1am Piece Of My Heart. (2022, MA15+, Dutch) 3.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 Child Snatchers: A Day At The Fair. (MA15+a) Looks at the disappearance of seven-year-old Mark Tildesley.

10.50 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Malv, R)

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

1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

9.40 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008, M) 11.45 Seinfeld. 12.15am Prodigal Son. 2.00 MOVIE: Blaze. (2022, MA15+) 4.00 Big Rigs Of Oz. 4.30 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Floor. (PG) 8.15 60 Minutes. Current

9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems. 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGlsv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

MOVIE: Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. (1989, PG) 11.50 Gotham. 12.45am Arrow. 2.25 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester City v Brentford. Replay. 4.25 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s Hotel. 5.30 Beyblade

6.00

MONDAY, May 18

6.00

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R)

9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav)

11.50 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R)

2.45 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PGn, R)

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.30 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. (PGl)

7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Ms)

Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)

Home Shopping. (R)

NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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6am My

Neighbour Totoro. Continued. (1988, PG) 6.25

Castle In The Sky. (1986, PG) 8.40 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.20 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 12.55pm Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 2.35 The Movie Show. 3.10 The Way Ahead. (1944, PG) 5.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 7.30 Goodbye Julia. (2023, M, Sudanese Arabic) 9.40 Sweet As. (2022, M) 11.20 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 19

R) 2.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 A Bite To Eat. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. (Final) 9.05 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.30 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)

8.30 Insight.

9.30 Dateline.

SBS World News Late.

Living Black. (R) 11.05 The Negotiator. (Premiere, Mal) 12.00 World On Fire. (Mav, R) 3.15 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

4.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

My Reno Rules. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav, R)

Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30

MOVIES (32)

6am Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. Continued. (1984, PG) 7.10 Porco Rosso. (1992, PG) 8.55 Francis: Pray For Me. (2015, PG, Spanish) 10.55 UnIndian. (2015, M) 1pm Past Lives. (2023, Korean) 3.00 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 4.50 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 7.45 Shadow Island. (2023, M, Norwegian) 9.30 Ama Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 11.05 Late Programs.

WEDNESDAY,

May 20

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.45 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. (R) 11.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Australia. (Final, PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Alexander Armstrong In India. (PG)

8.30 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

9.25 The Audacity. (M)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+asv) 12.05 Golden Boy. (MA15+ds, R) 1.55 Classified. (Malv, R)

3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

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

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 11.00 Late Programs.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv) A punishment proves too much.

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by  Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 Ultimate Crash Test. (PGal, R) 1.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Events That Changed Australia. (Ml)

8.30 NRL Origin Stories. (Premiere, PGl)

9.40 9News Late.

10.10 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

11.10 A Killer Makes A Call. (MA15+av, R)

12.00 First On Scene. (Mav, R) 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

THURSDAY,

TV (2)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Hotel

Salvation. Continued. (2016, PG, Hindi) 6.50 Ama

Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 8.25 Open The Wall. (2014, PG, German) 10.10 Discovering Film. 11.05 Goodbye Julia. (2023, M, Sudanese Arabic) 1.20pm Sweet As. (2022, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 Gulmohar. (2023, PG, Hindi) 6.00 The 39 Steps. (1935, PG) 7.40 The Tracker. (2002, M) 9.30 Monster. (2023, M) 11.50 Late Programs.

May 21

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Gruen. (PG, R) 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 11.25 Urzila. (Mals, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mal, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Frankie Drake. (PG) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Restoration Australia. (Return, PG)

9.00 The Assembly: Dave Hughes. (PGa, R)

9.45 Shaun Micallef’s Going For Broke. (PG, R) 10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R)

A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

(3)

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Piquancy Silent Heroes. (PG, R) 11.00 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Ma, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PGa)

8.40 American Prince: JFK Jr. (Ml, R)

9.30 A Gentleman In Moscow. (M)

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl) 11.55 DNA. (Ma, R)

2.30 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

3.40 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 11. 1.35am The Nine Lives Of. 2.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm DW The Day. 12.40 Alone. 1.55 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.45 Insight. 3.50 BBC News At Ten. 4.20 France 24. 4.50 PBS News. 5.50 The Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.20 Travel Man. 8.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 12. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning

Programs. 8.50 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi)

10.40 Shadow Island. (2023, M, Norwegian) 12.25pm Four’s A Crowd. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.15

Open The Wall. (2014, PG, German) 4.00 Ama Gloria. (2023, PG, French) 5.30 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 7.30 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 9.30 Eighth Grade. (2018, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

(64)

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Mountain Men. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s

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

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl, R)

8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGl) A car is found overloaded with bicycles.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec.

10.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Reno Rules. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 McDonald And Dodds. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League.

(8)

(64)

9GEM (82)

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Real Steel. (2011, M) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight The 100. 12.50 Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.50 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.50 MOVIE: Three Chords And The Truth. (2022, M) 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s Hotel. 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: Bad Moms. (2016, MA15+) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.25 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.30 Jeopardy! UK. 3.30 Big Rigs Of Oz. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Late Programs.

Dancing gold

By Rachael THORPE

BONNY Hills resident

Christie Rogers, 30, is enjoying significant success on the Highland Dancing

Christie recently returned from the Champion of Champions, a biannual Highland Dancing event held this year on the Gold Coast, which attracted approximately 300 competitors from across the country and overseas.

Christie achieved strong results across all her dance types, attaining first in the Scottish Lilt, second in the Flora, and fourth in the Trophy Highland Fling.

Working in floristry and social media, Christie says her true passion lies in the traditional dance form, devoting a significant part of her week to lessons and practise.

“I have Scottish heritage and have always loved Celtic culture,” she said.

“I couldn’t find anywhere locally to learn, so I do lessons via Zoom with

Jacaranda Highland Dancers who are based in Grafton.

“I’m currently dancing at a beginner’s level and I’m working hard to progress to novice level.

“My favourite style is the Lilt as it has very graceful moves similar to ballet,” she said.

Her next competition will be in Armidale in July.

Highland dancing has roots dating back to the eleventh century where it was predominantly performed by men, and particularly by warriors prior to battle.

It was regarded as a way to demonstrate strength, agility, stamina, and accuracy.

Popularised for women by Jenny Douglas in the nineteenth century, it has been in Australia since the late 1800s with standards maintained by the Australian Board of Highland Dancing.

Today is a vibrant part of Australia’s cultural arts scene with annual Highland games and major competitions across the country.