Port Macquarie News Of The Area 22 MAY 2026

TRAGIC CRASH

One year on from devastating floods

PORT Macquarie MP Robert Dwyer gave a solemn speech in NSW Parliament last week, marking the one year anniversary of the devastating 1-in-500-year Mid North Coast floods last May.

His words touched on the lives lost, the destruction endured and the resilience shown by communities across the Port Macquarie electorate.

“Almost twelve months

TRAGIC CRASH

FROM Page 1

on 9 May.

Amie was freed from her car and treated for serious head and facial injuries

before being taken to Port Macquarie Base Hospital and then airlifted to Newcastle.

The driver of the Mazda, a 32-year-old woman, was taken to hospital in a serious

on from the disaster, communities including Port Macquarie, the North Shore, Moorland, Coopernook and Harrington continue to reflect on the impact of the floods, which caused widespread

but stable condition.

News of the accident immediately prompted calls from King Creek residents for the NSW Government to follow-through on promised upgrades.

Local Kevin Fry shared, “If only they could at least drop the speed limit down to 60kms on the Oxley Highway from both ends of those bridges heading towards the King Creek intersection.

“That would at least give vehicles a bit of a chance to get out of King Creek Road.”

The current speed limit is 80kmph.

Following community consultation in 2023, Transport for NSW released a report advising that the preferred solution was a roundabout and eastbound slip lane.

“The implementation of this option is dependent on funding availability,” the report concluded.

Member for Oxley Michael Kemp has since contacted the Minister for Regional Roads asking for an in-depth update on the status of the upgrades, “as well as request in the interim that they review the current speed limit until safety changes are made”.

“As Wauchope and the

damage to homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.

“Today, we remember the five lives tragically lost during the disaster and extend our heartfelt thoughts to their families and loved ones.

“Anniversaries such as this are not simply dates on a calendar, they are moments to reflect, remember and acknowledge the grief and hardship many people continue to carry.”

Mr Dwyer’s speech also looked to the future, highlighting the ongoing efforts of residents, families and business owners to rebuild their lives and deal with the emotional and financial impacts of the disaster.

“Recovery is not a straight

line,” he said.

“For many people, the challenges did not end when the floodwaters receded.”

The MP then highlighted the “extraordinary” strength and compassion displayed throughout the region during the crisis.

“Emergency services personnel, volunteers, local organisations and everyday residents came together to support one another in remarkable ways,” he said.

“Special recognition was given to the State Emergency Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, Marine Rescue, NSW Police, Rural Fire Service, Ambulance crews and local council staff for their tireless efforts in protecting lives and assisting communities during

the emergency response.

“Countless volunteers were also acknowledged for helping fill sandbags, prepare meals, clear debris and provide support to those in need.

“These acts of kindness may never appear in official reports, but they represent the very heart of our community.”

Acknowledging the funding support provided by the NSW Government following the disaster, Mr Dwyer said continued support for affected residents and businesses remains essential.

“The Mid North Coast is a resilient and compassionate region, but recovery takes time, patience and ongoing commitment,” he said.

“No one should have to walk the recovery journey alone.”

Hastings Valley surrounds continue to grow, traffic is increasing significantly,” Mr Kemp said.

“We are already seeing the pressure this growth is placing on our roads and through the Wauchope CBD and Wrights Road (Port Macquarie) during peak traffic periods.

“Locals know this intersection is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate safely.

“Working alongside Port Macquarie Hastings Council, I will continue pushing for progress on TfNSWs preferred safety solution.

Amie’s mother, Wendy Pollard, said the family was taking heart in the fact she was an organ donor.

“Amie was generous,

caring and kind-hearted,” she told News Of The Area.

“Now someone is living on because of her.

“It’s like she’s delivered a Lotto win for five people.”

Mrs Pollard described the organ donation and transplantation team as “marvellous”.

After discovering there are only 300 donations across the state each year, she is now urging others to consider leaving a legacy.

Revitalised regional coach network unveiled

coach network, delivering 638 long-distance services each week, up from the current 592 services across 45 routes.

A 36 percent funding increase across the NSW TrainLink coach network will lift total funding to $290 million over the next nine years.

From 1 July, 14 coach operators will run 49 routes across the NSW TrainLink

On some routes, the changes will save passengers over two hours in travel time.

The majority of services will be operated by modern coaches featuring wheelchair accessibility, improved seating and seatbelts, mobile phone charging points,

onboard defibrillators and toilets.

The new routes will service over 360 destinations across NSW and into Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and the ACT.

NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Roger Weeks said, “After listening to passengers, local operators and the NSW Bus Taskforce, we’ve reshaped the network to make services more reliable,

better connected and easier to use, matching service provision to community need.

“Alongside the network review, we’ve overhauled our coach contracts, making wheelchair accessible coaches standard with better passenger amenities like improved air conditioning and toilets standard.”

Changes to NSW TrainLink coach services:

North West:

• A new Armidale–Port Macquarie return route creating an Armidale–North Coast connection for the first time, with a train connection at Wauchope to Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

• A new Armidale CBD stop for services to and from Tenterfield and Inverell. New CBD stop for Armidale for routes to and from Inverell and Tenterfield (routes 337 and 338, 327 and 328).

• A new day-return service between Tamworth and Newcastle (via coach and train).

• More services on the Tamworth–Dubbo route.

Additional Wednesday service between Dubbo and Tamworth for routes 361 and 362, which will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• New daily route 352 and 351 between Tamworth and Muswellbrook, for a day-return link to and from Newcastle via rail interchange at Muswellbrook

North Coast:

• A new Armidale–Port Macquarie return route (creating an ArmidaleNorth Coast connection for the first time). A new route will operate on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday between

Armidale and Port Macquarie and return, providing an Armidale to North Coast connection for the first time. At Wauchope the coach connects with rail services giving access to and from Coffs Harbour, Grafton, the Northern Rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

• An enhanced Port Macquarie - Wauchope service enabling travel to Grafton, Coffs Harbour, the Northern Rivers, the Gold Coast and Brisbane (for the first time). Enhanced service between Port Macquarie and Wauchope, providing both northbound and southbound connections. This enables journeys from North Coast and Queensland centres such as Grafton, Coffs Harbour, the northern rivers, Gold Coast and Brisbane to and from Port Macquarie for the first time.

• Additional TareeNewcastle services with new stops. Route 135 and 136 Broadmeadow to Taree and return will increase in frequency from Monday to Friday to daily. There will be additional stops at Taree Manning Street and Newcastle Interchange.

• Improved day and night services to and from Ballina, connecting with trains at Casino.

Bridget’s Glasshouse legacy

By Pauline CAIN

BRIDGET Purtill has been part of the Glasshouse journey for the past 15 years.

The Regional Gallery Curator started as a volunteer in 2009 after her family moved to Port Macquarie from Victoria.

“This incredible arts centre had just opened and it was just so stunning,” she said.

“It was so exciting to be in a regional town with such vision.

“I come from a background in the arts and am an artist myself, so I signed up as a volunteer because I wanted to be part of it.”

Bridget is now moving on to Sunshine Coast Council where she will start a new job as the Senior Learning and Engagement Officer at Caloundra Regional Gallery.

Glasshouse Venue

Manager Pam Milne, paid tribute to Bridget at the

opening of ARTEXPRESS on Saturday 9 May.

“Bridget has demonstrated a belief in this place and the power of the arts over the past eight years as gallery curator,” she said.

“Bridget’s leadership, professionalism and deep

care for the gallery have left a lasting legacy.”

ARTEXPRESS was Bridget’s final exhibition.

She said, “The gallery has always been my heart and soul but the opportunity to be involved in such a variety of arts practices at The

Glasshouse has been such a buzz.”

Those practices included working in the theatre as an usher, in the bar, then as duty manager, lighting, bumping in, customer service, marketing and education.

One of Bridget’s highlights

Glasshouse celebrates volunteers

By Bill HARROW

A COCKTAIL afternoon was held at the Glasshouse on Wednesday, 13 May to celebrate the dedicated crew of volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the year.

The Glasshouse is supported by 42 volunteers who play essential roles across the organisation, including as Tourism Ambassadors in the Visitor Information Centre and Gallery Assistants in the Regional Gallery.

The celebration event acknowledged the invaluable contribution volunteers make to the Glasshouse and the wider Port MacquarieHastings community through

their dedication, warmth and commitment.

“Your help makes a real difference,” Venue Manager Pam Milne told volunteers at the event.

“You welcome visitors.

"You are the first person they meet and that matters.”

The afternoon event was accompanied by a wonderful musical backdrop, with volunteer Rosanna playing a medley on the piano.

Rosanna is an institution at the Glasshouse and can be heard each Wednesday tickling the ivories to provide engaging mood music.

Last week’s event was held in advance of National Volunteer Week (18 to 24 May 2026), Australia’s largest annual celebration of

volunteering.

The annual campaign recognises the millions of Australians who generously give their time, skills and passion to strengthen communities across the country.

The 2026 theme, “Your Year to Volunteer”, highlights the many ways people can contribute, while encouraging more Australians to get involved in volunteering in ways that suit their lives and interests.

from her early days as an installer was an exhibition of Brazilian artist Ernesto Neto’s work - a series of suspended stockings, each filled with a spice.

Another was William Kentridge’s exhibition where, as curator, she worked with

“This place brings new ideas, thoughts, challenges and unpacks the human experience,” she said.

Bridget leaves for Queensland in June.

Artist explores themes of flux and flow

By Rachael THORPE

LOGANS Crossing artist and photographer Catherine Cloran’s fascination with rivers is explored in a new exhibition currently on display in Port Macquarie.

Her interest in waterways began decades ago, after seeing an iconic black and white photo of the Wanganui River taken in 1980 by New Zealand photographer Anne Noble.

Catherine later turned her attention to the Camden Haven River, taking photographs in different seasons and from source to sea.

That work, curated into an exhibition called “Pánta Rheî -Everything Flows”, is on display at the Glasshouse until 7 June.

“The idea for this exhibition sprang from a question that popped fully formed into my head late one night,” Catherine said.

“How does one portray a place, especially a river that’s constantly changing, and also in relation to the self, which is also a body of water and constantly changing?

“This question led me to explore themes of flux and flow, ideas that mean everything constantly changes.”

Catherine was further inspired by the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus, who believed that all things are in a state of constant change.

“He said: ‘No one ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and they are not the same person’,” Catherine told NOTA.

With a background in Fine Arts, Catherine studied at the National Art School, University of Western Sydney (BA Fine Arts, 2001) and Monash University (MA Visual Arts, 2006).

She has exhibited in Hong Kong, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney as well as undertaking international artist residencies in Beijing and Japan.

She has taken inspiration from countries that have conferred legal rights on rivers, and First Nations peoples who have long recognised the importance of rivers to life.

Many of her photos incorporate one of two scarves that she wears, creating a textured layer to the images. Catherine uses a white scarf to represent the self as it layers into the landscape, while a red scarf denotes blood and symbolises European settlement and the displacement of the First Australians.

Additionally, she has been short-listed for several photography art prizes, including the Head On Photo Festival Landscape Prize in 2015, where she won the NSW Parliament Landscape Prize. Her work explores the understanding that humans are a part of nature, rather than being separate from it.

CAMDEN HAVEN COMMUNITY @

Support for anyone doing it tough

Haven Community at 3 exists to ensure that no one in the Camden Haven area is without support for their basic and essential needs.

Totally volunteer-run, the local group hosts a free weekly BBQ meal on a Wednesday afternoon for those doing it tough or just in need of a community – everyone is welcome.

“For those unable, due to illness or other reason, we deliver food for them,” the team told NOTA.

“Live background music is always provided.

“At the BBQ we also give away free fruit, vegetables, and other food products.”

The BBQ is all about social inclusion, where friendships are made and new people are always welcomed.

A free laundry service is also available at the BBQ courtesy of the wonderful volunteers from OrangeSky.

Having a large network of support organisations, Community at 3 volunteers are

able to quickly refer people to the appropriate avenue for assistance.

“We constantly man our telephones and meet with those seeking assistance, whether for personal, financial, health, or any other concerns they may have,” the team said.

“We help everyone, either with food or food vouchers, clothing or personal needs, referrals to support organisations, providing transport when appropriate, or simply giving sound advice on how to overcome their difficulties.

“Although a very difficult request to satisfy, but one which we always come across, we try to source stable accommodation for those in such need.

“We also assist families impacted by suicide or with general funeral arrangements.”

Embedded firmly into the community, the organisation is supported by locally-based Patrons Dr Sam Nelapati, Staffan Andler (Kew Corner Store), Port Macquarie MP Rob Dwyer, Chantelle Ansell (News Of The Area) and Dean

Noble (Kew Country Club).

The group also has an active team member in Comboyne – Ray Lance.

More than 90 percent of funding comes from the generous local community, while the remainder comes from occasional grants.

“We have two main fund accounts: the money required to do all of the work outlined above and funds invested to be applied towards major capital expenditure for accommodation to help alleviate homelessness in our community,” the team said.

“We have had several motor vehicles donated to us and they require funds to be allocated for their maintenance.

“Insurance is also very expensive and certain funds need to be set aside to cover those expenses.”

So, how can you help?

“Contact us (details below) if you feel like you would like to volunteer,” the team said.

“You can also come as a guest.

“If you would enjoy attending our weekly

BBQ, then please just come along every Wednesday from 2.00pm at the Kew Country Club, Kew.

“If you know someone doing it tough, or even just lonely, invite them to come along to our BBQ – if you can, bring them with you.”

Contact Theo Hazelgrove on 0419 370 076 or via email at communityat3pm@gmail.com . Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ communityat3/ Website: communityat3.org.au.

The highs and lows of a life in football

By Douglas CONNOR

FEW have experienced the game of football at more varied levels than Mark Trenter.

From taking the field against Italian and AC Milan great Franco Baresi to coaching park football in Park Macquarie, the tough-tackling former centre forward and Dunbogan resident has seen it all.

Raised in the valleys of South Wales, Trenter joined English second division club West Bromwich Albion in 1974 as an apprentice.

He remembers the environment being “quite ruthless”.

“You would kick people to get into the team,” he told NOTA.

“Every session you had to be gladiator-minded.

“You had to have the skill in the first instance, but you needed the balls to go along with it.

“It was competition, competition, competition.

“There were 15 apprentice professionals who were signed each season, and only two on average would become a professional.”

Back to basics

or Liverpool or then when I moved to Germany, I always had a dream to coach kids the way I coached myself over my career.

“It is a really specific way of coaching.”

That coaching style reflects a back-to-the-basics footballing philosophy Johnston says is often overlooked in the modern game.

“Basically, if you can’t trap a ball and pass a ball, you can’t play the game,” he said.

“Really there are only two skills a player ever has for 90 minutes – he gets the ball and he gives it.

“If he makes a mistake, it is because he doesn’t get the ball quick enough and he doesn’t give it accurately enough.

“You can fix these problems if you practice them every day.”

Johnston – known for his high work rate and direct approach as a player – said his

Trenter did just that, signing a professional contract with Albion in 1976.

At the time the squad was led by player-coach Johnny Giles, a former Leeds United midfielder hailed as one of the greatest Irish players of all time.

Trenter said working alongside Giles was an “absolute privilege and honour”.

In four years at Albion, Trenter experienced both the euphoria of goalscoring and the despair of losing his spot due to player arrivals and serious injuries.

“At that time I had scored in just about every round of the FA Youth Cup,” he said.

“I was there then for another two seasons as a pro before I got some horrible injuries.”

One highlight from the period was playing for Wales under 19s against Italy and being marked by the legendary Baresi.

“That was an experience and to be fair I didn’t get much of a kick.”

Despite promising form, Trenter said the arrival of future England forward Cyrille Regis in 1977 pushed him down the pecking order at Albion, before eventually accepting a move to National Soccer League (NSL) club Sydney City Hakoah in 1978 at the age of 18.

“I scored a few goals, managed to recover from an ankle reconstruction and a cartilage operation, and the club said they wanted me to stay,” Trenter said.

“They said they would bring my parents over here and give me citizenship, so I

Johnston wrote letters to several British clubs seeking an opportunity.

fundamentals-first ethos was a key factor in his successful transition from the parks of Lake Macquarie to the top of the English game.

Another major element of his story is resilience, having overcome a series of seemingly insurmountable obstacles along the way to eventual induction in the Football Australia Hall of Fame.

Born in South Africa to Australian parents of Scottish descent, Johnston arrived in the Hunter as a young boy before contracting a severe bone infection at the age of six.

Coming close to losing his leg, he was told from an early age he would never reach a professional level.

“I had a very difficult story in terms of health and rejection,” Johnston told NOTA.

“All the experts said I would never make it as a player.”

At age 15, despite the opinions of local representative coaches,

said ‘bring it on’.

“I managed to play in three grand finals with Hakoah and had a short stint with Newcastle KB United, which is now the Newcastle Jets.”

Five years later, at just 23, Trenter was forced to retire from playing due to ongoing injury concerns.

Seeking job security he moved into the transport sector, developing a successful career in business before returning to the game years later as a coach.

A management role with Port United FC followed, before a long-term coaching stint at Cooks Hill United FC in Newcastle, alongside top administrative roles at football bodies including Northern NSW Football.

In 2026, now back living on the Mid North Coast, Trenter is volunteering his knowledge as a committee member with the Camden Haven Redbacks.

“It’s a great community football club and I am trying to help them move forward.

“I hope I can assist with

Against the odds, English first division side Middlesbrough responded, inviting the teenager to trial.

Johnston soon turned up in North Yorkshire with little more than a dream and his football boots, only to be quickly sent packing by the legendary Jack Charlton, who was managing Middlesbrough at the time.

Undeterred, Johnston continued to train in a carpark near the club’s home

ground until his natural talent was eventually spotted by Middlesbrough players including a young Graeme Souness.

He signed for ‘Boro’ in 1977, scoring 16 goals in 64 league appearances before moving to Liverpool in 1981.

“I went from not being able to make the under 13 and 14 rep teams in Boolaroo, to winning everything there is to win with the best team in the world, all within about 15 years,” Johnston reflected.

“I became the youngest player ever to play for

games and give advice to coaches where needed.”

Impressed with the standard on the Mid North Coast, Trenter believes talent identification in regional and rural areas remains a major challenge.

“The standard in the country is really good, they just don’t get seen.”

He also calls for more equitable player pathways, a greater focus on the basics of youth development, and encourages greater influence from ex-professionals on

Middlesbrough, the most expensive player in Britain, the first million-dollar player.

“I signed for Liverpool, won five league championships, a European Cup, and scored the winning goal in an FA Cup final.”

Johnston will share those stories and more at Panthers Port Macquarie on Saturday, 6 June, when he hosts the “Craig Johnston: You’ll Never Walk Alone” event, which will raise funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Port Macquarie Volunteer Support Group.

the direction of the game in Australia.

“The tall poppy syndrome in Australia is shameful really,” he said.

“There are not enough explayers in the system.“

Trenter recently returned from a trip to England for the 50-year reunion of West Bromwich Albion’s 1976 squad, where he rubbed shoulders with his old coach Johnny Giles, ex-team mates and current Socceroos star Nestory Irankunda.

“It is my own story, but specifically with my own words, pictures and music,” he said.

“Many people have written many things about me in many different ways, but this is straight from the horse’s mouth and straight from the heart.”

Both group and individual tickets to the show are still available.

For further information, contact Richard.mcgovern@ rescuehelicopter.com.au or Panthers Port Macquarie.

Breakers remain unbeaten

By Aiden BURGESS

THE COFFS Harbour

Breakers have continued their unbeaten run to start the season after having a 14.15 (99) to 10.8 (68) win against the Port Macquarie Magpies in Nambucca Heads, during Round 6 of the AFL

North Coast season. The win was their fifth in a row to start the season, and the second week in a row they had beaten the Magpies.

Reserves

The Coffs Harbour Breakers remain undefeated after edging out the Port Macquarie Magpies by 8.8

(56) to 8.6 (54).

The Grafton Tigers defeated the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints by 10.8 (68) to 7.9 (51) in Grafton.

Women’s

The Coffs Harbour Breakers had a 7.8 (50) to 4.6 (30) win against the Port Macquarie Magpies.

Iona Ibises promote Female Football Week

By Pauline CAIN

THE IONA Ibises have taken up the challenge of encouraging girls and women to join the growing sport of football.

On Saturday 16 May, they were at St Columba Anglican School, running fun activities for girls that included ball skills and games, and face painting and nail painting.

The team has also attended U17’s and U15’s football games and participated in an information session about injury prevention at training.

Iona Sports Club started in 2017.

Outgoing president Tony Judge set up the female soccer team, while coach Ben Jackson and manager

Judith Jackson built a culture promoting strength and collaboration.

The club now fields two female teams.

New president, Paul Stephens, joined the club three years ago and has watched the numbers grow.

“The [Ibises] are such a keen bunch, promoting female football to younger players, and there is a real flow through the club for women’s football.

“One third of our players are female - one of the highest in the area.”

Iona Ibis team members Gemma Gore and Anita Bellamy were driving forces behind the Female Football Week celebration.

They highlighted some of the things they love about

playing football, including hanging out with team mates, getting fit and having fun, learning a new skill, and being challenged.

“We really wanted young girls to come and get involved and to have fun,” Gemma said.

“When I was growing up, girls were the minority in the soccer world.

“We wanted to encourage girls [and say] ‘we see you, we hear you, we appreciate you, we want you to be known’.”

Gemma said the Female Football Week event at St Columba was a success.

“I hope this sets a precedent for our Iona Club, getting bigger and better each year as we recognise and focus on our female players during this wek.”

Rugby season resumes

By Aiden BURGESS

AFTER having a week off for the NSW Country Championships, the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season returns to action this weekend with Round 4 matches.

Coffs Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins reserves and women’s sides both

clash in their first local derby of the season, at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park. In first grade, the Kempsey Cannonballs host the Port Macquarie Pirates, and Hastings Valley Vikings host the Grafton Redmen. Early season ladder leaders the Coffs Harbour Snappers have the bye.

Under 18s

The Port Macquarie Magpies kept their undefeated record intact after edging out Coffs Harbour Breakers/Nambucca Valley; 7.11 (53) to 6.15 (51).

Round 7

The AFL North Coast season continues this

weekend with Round 7 matches in Sawtell and Port Macquarie.

The Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/ Toormina Saints face off in their second local derby of the season, on Saturday afternoon at Richardson Park.

The Northern Beaches Blues travel to take on the

Port Macquarie Magpies. Senior men’s ladder 1.Coffs Harbour Breakers. 20 points. 5 wins. 0 losses. 206.05%. 2.Sawtell/ Toormina Saints. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. 98.94%. 3.Port Macquarie Magpies. 8 points. 2 wins. 3 losses. 120.53%. 4.Northern Beaches Blues. 0 points. 0 wins. 4 losses. 35.45%.

Wauchope Women's Bowling Club

By Marie WINTER

THURSDAY 14th May social games of lawn bowls were played at the Wauchope Country Club.

The winners with the most number of ends were Simone Thompson, Jenny Wooster, Marie Winter and Pat Coombes

The lucky losers with the lowest margin were swinger Simone Thompson, Kath Cooper, Julie Samuelsson and Sally Webber

The jackpot no. 35 was

Karmen Marchment who was not playing to collect.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Ita Walker ,Patricia Fletcher, Marie Winter and Heather Bartlett

Saturday morning the 16th May 2026 was the first round of the Consistency Singles with the following results

Patricia Fletcher 86 defeated by Julie Samuelsson 154

Kylie Hackney 80 defeated by Glenda Elford 150

Lil Allen 128 defeated by Sarah Jones 151

Lisa Collins 108 defeated by Wendy Kennedy 156

The lucky winners by a fan of the cards Wendy Kennedy and marker Fay Paine

The lucky losers by a fan of the cards Kylie Hackney marker Yvonne Carmichael.

The jackpot No 57 Debbra Wilson was not collected as she was not playing.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Lisa Collins, Lil Allen, Sarah Jones x 2

Bogie Bandits Social Golf Club

By Colin EVERINGHAM

TUESDAY 12/5/2026

Number of Players – 20 Game Played –Stableford/ Multiplier Winners- Ken Baldwin/

First grade ladder

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

Robert Toone -74 Points Well Done Team 2nd Col Everingham/Ken Gallie - 73 Points

3rd Jeff Wheate/Dave Farthing -69 Points

NTP 4 Steve Vickers - Great

Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club

By Marie WINTER

THURSDAY 14th May social games of lawn bowls were played at the Wauchope Country Club.

The winners with the most number of ends were Simone Thompson, Jenny Wooster, Marie Winter and Pat Coombes

Shot Steve

NTP 9 Dave Mayes

NTP 11 Dave Mayes NTP 15 Ray Marsh

Congratulations to all winners!!

The lucky losers with the lowest margin were swinger Simone Thompson, Kath Cooper, Julie Samuelsson and Sally Webber

The jackpot no. 35 was Karmen Marchment who was not playing to collect.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Ita Walker ,Patricia Fletcher, Marie Winter and Heather Bartlett

Saturday morning the 16th May 2026 was the first round of the Consistency Singles with the following results

Patricia Fletcher 86 defeated by Julie Samuelsson 154

Kylie Hackney 80 defeated by Glenda Elford 150

Lil Allen 128 defeated by Sarah Jones 151

Lisa Collins 108 defeated by Wendy Kennedy 156

The lucky winners by a fan of the cards Wendy Kennedy and marker Fay

Paine

The lucky losers by a fan of the cards Kylie Hackney marker Yvonne Carmichael.

The jackpot No 57 Debbra Wilson was not collected as she was not playing.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Lisa Collins, Lil Allen, Sarah Jones x 2

OPINION & LETTERS

Dorin's Drawings

By Paul DORIN

Fond farewell

By Doug CONNOR, Group Editor

AFTER just shy of six years manning the News Of The Area news desk, I have made the difficult decision to leave my role as Group Editor.

Before I officially depart next Friday (29 May), I wanted to take the opportunity to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to NOTA newspapers during that time: writers, readers, sub-editors, designers, letter writers, columnists, cartoonists, deliverers, admin staff, advertising representatives and more.

It has truly been an honour to be involved as the newspaper group grew to cover new areas across the Hunter and Mid North Coast.

From two newspapers in 2020, NOTA now prints eight regional newspapers each week, bringing vital public interest journalism - for free in print and online - to communities from Port Stephens to the Coffs Coast.

Over the years I have had the pleasure of meeting and engaging with people and groups up and down the coast; thanks to all who read

the paper, contribute letters or story submissions, or simply ring to discuss the news of the day.

A big thanks also to the NOTA owners, Mick and Rochelle Wright, for giving me the opportunity and trusting me with the editorial direction of their newspapers.

NOTA is a truly independent local news source - free from political or commercial influence - and should be celebrated as such.

Rest assured, the newspaper group is being left in very capable hands, and I look forward to seeing where Mick, Rochelle and the rest of the team take the business in years to come.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

DOUG Connor, you have done a tremendous job as Editor for our NOTA newspapers over the last six years.

You have made a difference in many people's lives by bringing communities their news, information and happenings.

On behalf of NOTA, thank you and best wishes from myself (personally), and indeed all of the NOTA readers and team.

Michael Wright Publisher

Real Estate Agents

On the Couch

By JASMINDA

DEAR Jasminda,

MY friend is a good listener, but sometimes I forget my train of thought and ask her what I was talking about and she never knows.

Does this seem odd?

Dear Delia,

Delia H.

There is a very big difference between pretending to listen and using actively listening skills.

Many people become adept at the former and give a damn fine impression of the latter, when in reality they only hear the occasional word.

It is a skill, and sometimes a

survival mechanism, when you have friends or family members that frequently unload for hours at a time.

A conversation is a two-way contract, so if you think your friend is a good listener, consider if you are also a good listener, or if you are simply getting things off your chest that may be of no consequence.

There is nothing wrong with working through issues, but if your friend is merely a sounding board, it may be becoming exhausting for them to be constantly listening (or pretending to listen) to the (no doubt riveting, but possibly not) details of your life.

The clear cue that your friend is not listening is that she can never recall what you are talking about. Perhaps she is perimenopausal and can't remember anything.

Or perhaps, while you are unloading about your kids, or your husband, or your dog, she is a million miles away, possibly imagining she is skiing in the swiss alps, or immersed (up to the neck) in a hot tub (a glass of pinot gris in her hand) or maybe she is imagining that she is frolicking

Dramatic language over budget

DEAR News Of The Area,

Golly, a "budget bloodbath".

Didn’t take long for our local conservative Member for Lyne to talk up a drama.

Here is our representative of the parties whose mantra is smaller government and lower taxes screaming blue murder that the government is not spending more money.

Fresh from their drubbing in the Farrer by election you’d think some more cautious language might be the better way to go.

With our whole world in turmoil due to some belligerent idiot overseas, a bit of restraint seems a prudent course.

If Alison wants to be taken seriously by her thoughtful constituents she should leave the inflammatory language to others.

Regards, Al READ, Lakewood.

in the ocean with Jason Momoa and/or a seal.

Then, in the midst of these diversions, you interject with 'now I've forgotten my train of thought, what was I talking about?' and her imaginative escape is shattered.

Then she has to take a stab in the dark as to whether you were talking about your son's recent tooth extraction, or your husband's propensity to cut his toenails on the mohair rug, or your desire to paint your walls Hog Bristle because you're sick of Lexicon White.

A friendship is a give-and-take arrangement.

I'd suggest next time you catch up, you ask her what she has been up to.

And then you listen. Really listen. And ask questions to show you're listening.

Unless, of course, she starts talking about home renovations, in which case you have permission to adopt any of the above imaginative escapes or come up with your own.

DEAR News Of The Area, WITH a population of around 90,000 and huge planned developments coming Port Macquarie will definitely need two swimming pools rather than just one in the near future as a priority! We don’t want to swim in the ocean where sharks, bluebottles and other icky creatures reside - we just want to swim in safe, protected pools. There’s a lot of us out here, so the council needs to think ahead for this rapidly growing town and look after us appropriately as a priority!

Regards, Pauline MCCARTHY, Port Macquarie.

For Sale

For Sale

MALTESE Shih Tzu puppies. 1M & 1F white. Mother’s MC# 953010006834367 Will be vacc and MC Avail from May 30 BIN# B000616552 Located Port Stephens Ph/Txt 0474 378 452.

3 boat fuel tanks, 25ltrs

$50 the lot. Ph 0408 994 486

30FT fold-out container home, 2 bdr, bathroom kitchen, brand new

$50,000 ono. Ph 0401

035 674

ADJUSTABLE mobility chair, padded with armrests $90. 0459 597 012 F270226

ANTIQUE food mincer Harper # 3181 “Beatrice” Food Mincer. Albion Works, Willlenhall Staffordshire, England Incl. all attachments Pristine condition. $45 ono. Ph 0413 051 635

BED, fold up, metal frame, ideal for camping or extra bed. $25. 0400 124 942

CHIMINEA fire urn with stand, as new $25. Ph 0401 226 410 F150526

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

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

FISHING Rod - 3 piece

COMMEMORATION plate - 1956 Melbourne Olympics good condition $50. Ph 6582 1019

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

Jarvis Walker Surf Rock 15 foot. Exc Cond. $80 ono. Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890

FISHING rod and reel $90. Ph 0428 489 689.

$95 0478 926 676

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

MOBILITY walker

Aspire classic 6”, blue adjustable height, fold up padded flip seat, under seat bag, brand new in original packaging. $90 Laurieton. Ph 0412 130 333

BANJO Paterson

Collected Works

Hardcover, as new $10 Also paperback $5, Ph 0447 445 319 F230126

BEDSTICK $40. Ph 0427 951 211

RADIATOR, 10 fin. $20 Ph 0402 164 639

RUSTIC corrugated iron sheets, 2.4m long $12

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

FLURO light, 60cm wide w/ 2 globes. $30 Ph 0412 004 970 POLY tarps, grey 1800mm x 2400mm top condition. 3 for $25 or $10 each. Ph 0481 046 477

GARDEN leaf blower petrol engine $45 6585 7393

NEWS OF

BIKE for children near new. $40. Ph 0415 858 981 F281125

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

COUGAR 2 burner gas stove, Pilbara model great used cond, inc instructions etc 20” x 1” cooking area $60 ono Port Macquarie. Ph 0414 914 401 F240426PMCH

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

WOOD lathe, long bed 8 speed, complete with 2 chucks, chisels etc with solid steel stand if needed $800 ono. 0460 510 170

LEATHER lounge chairs, burgandy, good cond. $95 for two. Ph 0448 820 843 F010526

PORT MACQUARIE

THE AREA Call for Classifieds (02) 4981 8882

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

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

BAR stools x 4 round upholstered seats, dark wood turned legs. $100 Ph 0415 858 981F080526PMCH OMEGA Smeg microwave & convection grill oven 30lt exc. cond $99. Ph 0403 800 775

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

BREVILLE smoking gun Model BSM600, In original box , used twice $25. 0428 559 572

BUFFET, cream $45 Ph 0422 179 343 F170426

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

DINNER set - Eternal Beau, for 10, excellent condition. $95. Ph 0458 659 427

DOG kennel - large wooden with hinged lid $75 ono. Ph 0457 800 799 F240426

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

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

CAMPHOR chest 96cm L x 45cm H x 43cm D $30. Can deliver locally 0422 538 888 For Sale

GOLF Balls and Tees x 50. Great Cond $50. Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890 F130226

GOLF clubs. 4 x Drivers No’s 1,1, 3 & 4, 1 x 4 Iron & 2 Putters. $10 ea or $50 the lot. Ph 02 6584 9884. F080526

LADIES jacket, size M floral, Bonds brand, zip front, as new, can send photo $25 ono. Ph 0488 979 484 F170426

MAKITA garden grass trimmer, 2 stroke, 21cc electric ignigition, exc cond. $99. Ph 0403 800 775 F080526

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

MATTRESS QB Sealy Posturepedic, as new $350. Ph 0428 489 689

MATTRESS, QB Wonderest, as new $350. Ph 0488 979 484 DOONA, QB, new, top quality, very warm $65 ono. Ph 0488 979 484.

DOONA for queen bed, hypo-allergenic microfibre quilt very warm new. Good value at $80. Ph 0488 979 484

LADDER, alum. Baileys 150kg 3.6 - 6.2 $165 0492 831 265

MIZUNO golf bags, 14 divisions, good cond $60. Ph 0448 820 843

Classified ads 02 4981 8882

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

blanket queen size, caramel colour ribbon binding. $80 0418 650 443 F170426

OIL heater on wheels 1500watt, DeLonghi Cash only. $50. Ph 0408 446 129

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

OUTDOOR setting large glass tabletop with 6 chairs. $50. Ph 0457 800 799

PENTAX ESP10 vintage camera w-case & manual- top condition $200 Ph 0481 046 477

TABLETOP round glass 1370cm

Ph 0414 184 498

12ft Viscount Gazelle Nipper PopTop ‘94 exc cond. hardly used always garaged, twin beds, micro-grill, side and rear awning, rear door Reg H40500. $14,000 Ph 0478 618 294

1993 Roadstar caravan 16ft, 2 berth, many extras 7mths rego G96521 $12,500 ono. Phone Graham on 6581 0810

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

PICNIC backpack, new inc plates etc for 4. $20 Ph 0458 659 427

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

TOASTER, Kambrook model LTA620BSS brand new. $60. Ph 0488 429 163 F010526

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

SHETLAND

ABC TV, 8.30pm

It’s freezing cold, claustrophobically small and the whole place knows your business, but even reluctant returnee Ruth Calder (Ashley Jensen, pictured) can’t deny that Shetland is home. Officially a resident of the Scottish isles when this ninth season begins, Calder is thrown into an uncomfortable situation by a double missing person’s case that blurs the line between private and professional lives. Annie (Sarah MacGillivray), the woman who has vanished with her young son, is a friend of Tosh (Alison O’Donnell), and had arranged to speak to her about something important the night before she disappeared.

FRIDAY, May 22

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 1.45 Bad Company. (PGn, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson meets a horticulturalist.

8.30 Shetland. (Return, Mlv) Calder and Tosh investigate when a woman goes missing with her nine-year-old son.

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

10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R)

10.30 ABC Late News.

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

11.35 Love Me. (Mdl, R)

1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

ABC FAMILY

7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

WEDNESDAY

GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

Living in the advent of autocorrect and AI, you might wonder who spell these days. Comedians, that’s who. Logie Award-winning host Guy Montgomery won’t let the written word go quietly, enlisting a roster of famous stand-ups, rising stars and bewildered actors to spell homophones, esoteric scientific terms and names of audience members alike. Brimming with zany set-ups and lightningfast improv, it’s one of the truest joys on Australian TV. In Wednesday’s episode, Montgomery and his sidekick Sam Campbell (near left, with Montgomery) find out if Rose Matafeo, David O’Doherty or Tim McDonald can topple the carryover champ.

THURSDAY

RICK STEIN’S AUSTRALIA

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, R) 3.00 Nula. 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 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (Premiere)

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. (Premiere)

9.50 Rock Legends. (PGa)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (Mas)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

8.00 MOVIE: Ladies In Black. (2018, PGl, R) A young woman learns about life and love while working at a department store in ’50s Sydney. Angourie Rice, Julia Ormond.

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

12.00 Quacks. (MA15+d)

12.45 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

Whether he’s at home in Cornwall or soaking up residence, chef Rick Stein (pictured) rarely strays far from the ocean. And with a gift for preparing seafood with such fresh, natural flavour, who could blame him? However, for this tasty travelogue, the Englishman is leaving the coast behind and taking in Australian landscapes further inland. After venturing into the Outback last week, Stein heads to New South Wales’ Riverina region. He’s keen to see how the area’s floodplains have become a food bowl for the entire nation, stopping by an emu farm, the De Bortoli winery and a “perfect” Italian bakery.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Canterbury Bulldogs v Melbourne Storm.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran rescues POWs. 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)

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R)

7.30

6.00

SATURDAY, May 23

6.00

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim goes into labour.

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

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

7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG)

A distillery owner is poisoned.

8.30 Silent Witness. (M) When a mysterious contagion spreads on a flight, Dr Nikki Alexander must contain a deadly illness.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mal, R) Bergerac’s pursuit of Monica has severe consequences.

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGaw)

8.20 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)

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

10.15 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGav, R)

11.15 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

1.55 Matched. (PG, R)

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

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Armageddon. (1998, Mv, R) A veteran oil driller and his team must save humanity after an asteroid is discovered on a collision course with Earth. Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler.

11.35 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 1. Highlights. 1.35 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return Of The Jedi. (1983, PGv, R) Mark Hamill. 10.10 MOVIE: Stargate. (1994, PGv, R) Kurt Russell. 12.20 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

1.10 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)

9.00 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving, as they deal with a diabetic coma, a rescue from a burning car, a child in anaphylaxis and an explosion in Chinatown.

11.00 Elsbeth. (PGv, R) Elsbeth investigates a wealth therapist after a billionaire’s son dies in a motorcycle crash. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Mr. Holmes.

Continued. (2015, PG) 7.10 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 9.00 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 11.00 Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 12.40pm The First Day Of My Life. (2023, M, Italian) 2.55 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 4.55 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 6.55 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 8.30 No Country For Old Men. (2007, MA15+) 10.45 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 24

6.00

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

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Jessica Mauboy. Autistic students interview Jessica Mauboy.

8.15 Bad Company. (M) Staff are trapped when new smart locks malfunction.

8.45 Bergerac. (Mlv) Bergerac’s career is on the line as the case gets personal.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) A distillery owner is poisoned.

10.30 Silent Witness. (M, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Shut Your Big Fat Mouth John Safran! (Ma)

8.45 Cannes Uncut. (Maln, R)

10.15 Osher Günsberg: A World Of Pain. (Mads, R)

11.25 The Rise And Fall Of Boris Becker. (Mals, R)

1.15 Matched. (PG, R)

3.00 The Sculpture. (PGav, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

Abandoned Engineering. 8.20 The UnXplained With William Shatner. (Return) 9.05 Travel Man. 9.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 15. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Ideal Palace. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 7.20 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 8.55 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 10.50 Up In The Air. (2009, M) 12.50pm Harold And Maude. (1971, M) 2.30 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 4.20 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 6.20 The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. (1952, PG) 8.30 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 The Real Adolescence: Our Killer Kids. (MA15+av) 10.30 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Mad, R) 11.40 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R) 12.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 2. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

(64) 7MATE (64)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 8.00 The Michael Jackson Story: Fame. (Premiere, Mas) Follows Michael Jackson’s rise to fame. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 The First 48. (Mav, R) 11.25 American Ripper: Black Heart, White City. (Mav) 12.15 Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R) 1.05 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

Tuesday - Thursday 9-4 Friday 9-3 Saturday 9-12

MONDAY, May 25

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)

10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav) 12.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R) 3.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 My Unique B&B. (R)

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

(31)

6am The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. Continued. (1952, PG) 7.55 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 10.00 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 12.20pm The Fence. (2022, M) 2.00 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 4.00 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 5.35 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 7.35 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 9.15 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 26

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGal)

7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (Ml) 8.40 9-1-1. (M) Buck is faced with his past. 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGal) 12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

The Michael Jackson Story. (Final, Mas)

100% Footy. (Mal) 10.30 9News Late.

Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl) 12.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

A Current Affair. (R)

7.30. (R)

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. 8.40 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 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. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.05 The Negotiator. (Ma)

12.00 World On Fire. (Malv, R)

3.15 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R)

4.15 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.50 Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.55 Jeopardy! 7.50 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.45 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 9.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 16. 1.35am NHK World

6am Morning Programs. 7.05 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 8.50 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 10.25 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 12.30pm Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. (1952, PG) 5.40 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 7.30 The New Boy. (2023, M) 9.40 Samson And Delilah. (2009, M) 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 9.15 Doc. (Ma) While navigating the fallout from Katie’s secret, Amy treats a critically-ill patient with a dark one of her own. 10.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well.

The Agenda Setters.

New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm

Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current

6am

6.00

WEDNESDAY, May 27

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.10 Making It. (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. (Final, PGan)

8.25 The Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

9.25 The Audacity. (MA15+l)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Rise Of The Raven. (Mv) 11.55 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R) 1.40 Classified. (MA15+v, R)

3.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

4.20 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 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.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv) Recruits tackle an extraction task.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by  Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

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

12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

VICELAND (31)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Master

Cheng: A Spice For Life. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 10.10 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 11.50 The New Boy. (2023, M) 2pm Madison. (2020, PG, German) 3.35 Discovering Film. 4.25 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 6.10 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.35 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.10 Spear. (2015, M) 10.40 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, May 28

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

At Noon. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mlv, R) 2.00

Question

3.00

Australia. (PG, R) 3.55 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (PG) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Assembly: Jessica Mauboy. (R)

Shaun Micallef’s Going For Broke. (PG, R)

ABC Late News.

The Business. (R)

Frankie Drake Mysteries. (Mv, R)

Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

Gardening Australia. (R)

Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

7.30. (R)

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. 8.40 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

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6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL State of Origin. Game 1. New South Wales v Queensland.

10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 1.

11.00 NRL Origin Stories. (PGl, R) Looks at the history of the NRL Origin series.

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Explore TV Viking. (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 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PG)

8.40 Titanic: Our Secret History. (PGa, R)

9.35 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Ma)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (MA15+l)

11.55 De Gaulle. (Ma, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

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

VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. 11.00 The Swiping Game. 11.20 The Movie Show. 11.55 DW The Day. 12.25pm Alone. 3.00 BBC News At Ten. 3.30 France 24. 4.00 PBS News. 5.00 The Lebanese Burger Mafia. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 Travel Man. 9.05 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGl, R) Takes a look at some blatant busts.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. Hosted by Ant and Dec. 10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (Malv)

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 Brave New World. (Premiere, MA15+asv)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Sully. (2016, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The 100. 12.20am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.20 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.30 Surfing Australia. 3.00 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Bad Moms 2. (2017, MA15+) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.25 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.25 Australian Ninja Warrior. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current

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6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 8.15 Another Country. (2015, PG) 9.40 Discovering Film. 10.30 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 12.05pm Samson And Delilah. (2009, M) 2.00 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 4.00 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 5.40 Kindred. 7.30 The Thicket. (2024, M) 9.30 The Sweeney. (2012, MA15+) 11.35 Late Programs.

Back to basics

By Douglas CONNOR

AUSTRALIAN football icon and ex-Liverpool star Craig Johnston has signalled his intention to run youth training sessions on the Mid North Coast in the coming months.

Mr Johnston – who made 271 appearances for “the Reds” between 1981 and 1988 – was in the region last week promoting a live show he is hosting in Port Macquarie during the June long weekend. Sitting down with News Of The Area, the ex-midfielder known in England as “Skippy” said he has long hoped to pass on his knowledge of the game directly to the region’s budding footballers.

“I’ve always wanted to open a ‘Johnston Academy’ here in northern NSW,” said Johnston, who noted details of upcoming training opportunities were yet to be confirmed.

“All through my career, whether it be at Middlesbrough

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