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Long list of break-ins
TWO teenage boys are facing a long list of alleged property offences related to a spate of break-ins in Port Macquarie and Kempsey.
About 10.40pm on Monday 12 January, a group of teenage boys were depicted on CCTV allegedly trying to enter properties and a vehicle on The Anchorage, The Peninsular, and Portside Crescent in Port Macquarie.
Shortly after midnight on Tuesday 13 January, the group allegedly entered a property on River Park Road in Port Macquarie.
The occupants of the home – a man and woman aged in their 80s – were allegedly threatened with a knife before electronics and a vehicle were stolen.
No injuries were reported.
Police attached to Mid North Coast Police District subsequently located the vehicle abandoned in West Kempsey.
That night, between 9.30pm on Tuesday 13 January and 5am on Wednesday 14 January, three further property offences were reported at three homes on Springfield Drive in
Greenhill.
During the incidents, credit cards and two vehicles were allegedly stolen.
Shortly after 7am police located the two vehicles abandoned – one in Greenhill and one in West Kempsey.
A short time later, police arrested two boys aged 14 and 16 at homes in Kempsey and took them to Kempsey Police Station.
The younger boy was charged with 11 offences: two counts of break and enter dwelling-house etc with intent; two counts of enter building/
land with intent commit indictable offence; two counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal; enter building/land with intent commit indictable offence; aggravated break and enter with intent-in company-steal etc; take and drive conveyance without consent of owner; be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner, and enter vehicle or boat without consent of owner/occupier.
The older boy was charged with nine offences: two counts of enter building/land with
Bluebottles patrol oceans over Australia Day
UNMANNED marine surveillance vessels known as Bluebottles will patrol Marine Parks between Coffs Harbour and Camden Haven over the Australia Day long weekend.
The deployment aims to deter and detect illegal fishing activity in protected Green Zones along the Mid North Coast.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer
said the vessels will focus on detecting illegal fishing activity in Green Zones between the Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Cod Grounds Marine Park off the coast of Dunbogan.
“The surveillance measures help protect the plants and animal species in areas like the Cod Grounds Marine Park, which is home to many fish species, including the
endangered east coast grey nurse shark, as well as squid, crabs and lobsters,” Mr Dwyer said.
Mr Dwyer said it was essential that recreational and commercial fishers clearly understand where no take zones are located before heading out on the water.
“It is vitally important that fishers know exactly where Green Zones are located along our
coastline. The most effective ways to do that is by checking Government Marine Park maps which show Green Zones boundaries or by using a fishing or marine navigation app that utilise zoning layers,” he said.
He said illegal fishing undermines conservation outcomes and threatens the long term health of marine ecosystems.
“Stopping illegal fishing in Green Zones is critically important to marine conservation efforts, ecosystem
intent commit indictable offence; aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal; stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (personal); destroy or damage property; armed with intent commit indictable offence; take and drive conveyance without consent of owner; learner not accompanied by driver/police officer/ tester, and learner driver not display "L" plates as prescribed.
Both boys were refused bail ahead of their appearance in the Children’s Court.
Inquiries under Operation Soteria continue.
health and the longterm sustainability of surrounding fisheries,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Illegal fishing directly undermines the purpose of these protected areas, which are designed as safe havens where marine life can recover and thrive.”
Penalties for breaching Green Zones or other no take areas can be significant with fines of up to $22,000 per breach and potential seizure of catch, fishing gear and vehicles.
The 22-foot Bluebottles resemble small yachts and operate using renewable energy generated by solar, wind and wave power.
Each vessel carries advanced technology, including 360 degree day and night infrared cameras, radar and satellite communications.
The vessels can operate autonomously for months at a time, allowing authorities to monitor designated marine areas continuously without the need for onboard crew.
Suspicious or illegal activity in Australian Marine Parks can be reported via the Marine Compliance Hotline on 1800 852 975 or by email at marine.compliance@ environment.gov.au.
MEMBERS of the NSW Parliament are calling on the State Government to deliver a clear and coordinated plan to address repeated disruptions along Waterfall Way following another landslip that has forced a prolonged closure.
Michael Kemp, Member for Oxley, and Brendan Moylan, Member for the Northern Tablelands, said the latest incident highlights the urgent need for long-term solutions on the key regional route.
A landslip between Horseshoe Road and Boggy Creek Road occurred on Monday 19 January, with the road expected to remain closed for up to 10 days.
“The repeated closures of Waterfall Way are completely unacceptable,”
Mr Kemp said.
“Families, farmers, and communities cannot continue to endure this.
“Every time it rains, the road slips, leaving thousands of people isolated.
“The community is frustrated, fed up, and rightly expects their government to act.
“Previous funding of $72 million was allocated for resilience works on this road, yet the community has seen nothing but piecemeal measures.
“I have personally shown the Minister for Transport the severity of the landslips, and yet the closures keep coming.
“Our plan is simple: build real, lasting resilience into Waterfall Way, upgrade Summerville Road as a
reliable alternative during closures, and commit to funding a case study for a long-term alternative corridor.
“We’re asking that the Labor Government match this plan and deliver certainty to the community.”
Mr Moylan said the ongoing disruptions were having a serious impact across the region.
“Waterfall Way is a key transport route for our agricultural and timber industries as well as playing a major role in tourism in northern NSW with five national parks and numerous scenic waterfalls,” he said.
“When Waterfall Way closes, communities are cut off, freight is disrupted, and emergency access is put at risk.
“The financial impact of Monday’s landslip has already significantly impacted farmers through the cancellation of a sale vital to their operations.
“The NSW Government needs to stop managing this road crisis-to-crisis and get serious about fixing it properly.
“That means urgent repairs now, and a long-term plan to make this route safer, stronger, and more reliable.
“Regional communities deserve infrastructure they can depend on; not excuses every time the road gives way.”
Waterfall Way connects the Northern Tablelands with the Mid North Coast and is a critical corridor for commercial transport, agriculture and tourism.
New laws to protect dogs
owners tempted to leave their pet in the car when they run to the shops, will soon risk tougher penalties.
The State Government is delivering on its election promise to review the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTAA), flagging heavier fines and longer jail sentences.
Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the proposed changes “mark the most significant reform to the state’s animal welfare laws in years, delivering modern legislation that reflects contemporary community expectations.”
Changes include offences
for leaving dogs in hot vehicles, tougher animal fighting laws and banning painful prong collars.
According to Animal Welfare League NSW CEO, Stephen Albin, the package addresses some of the worst examples of animal cruelty.
“Our inspectors spend a lot of time educating people about animal welfare, but the new laws provide muchneeded new powers to deal with the worst cases and offenders.”
More than 7,000 submissions were received during a period of stakeholder consultation, leading to the following proposed measures:
—strengthening animal fighting offences to support NSW Police in addressing their links to organised crime and addressing potential loopholes
—new offences, including leaving a dog unattended in a hot vehicle; using or possessing prong collars, which are a discredited and painful dog training tool that
is currently illegal to import; and possessing glue traps, which are already illegal to set in NSW
—strengthening enforcement powers and penalties to send clear signals to perpetrators of animal cruelty
—removing barriers
to humane intervention in critical situations, allowing POCTAA inspectors to administer pain relief to animals where necessary and allowing appropriately trained Local Land Services personnel to euthanise animals in emergencies.
The changes build
on reforms that have included banning puppy farms; increasing funding to approved charitable organisations to carry out animal welfare enforcement activities; and preventing people convicted of animal cruelty from keeping and breeding animals.
The Government expects to present a Bill to Parliament in the first half of the year.
DOG
q Waterfall Way Landslide.
Photo: @MichaelKempMP
q Even if parked in the shade with the windows partially down, dogs can die in a car in less than six minutes. Photo: GabesDotPhotos/Pexels.
Bumper summer for tourism operators
FROM Page 1
gates for good.
For Timbertown owners David and Alison Waite, the strong summer trade has delivered a remarkable final chapter for one of the Mid North Coast’s most iconic tourist attractions, which is set to wind up operations on January 28.
David Waite said trade at Timbertown was up about 400 per cent this summer, with demand peaking well
beyond expectations.
“Saturday just gone was our busiest recorded day ever at Timbertown,” he told News Of The Area this week.
“We’ve probably had 10 days since Christmas where we’ve had to recommend to people not to come in because we’re just at more than capacity.”
While the strong finish had been rewarding, Waite said it was also an emotional time for the small team behind the attraction.
“To be honest, the small group of us here, we’re all thoroughly exhausted, and no one’s really stopped to consider next week,” he said.
“But I’m sure it will hit us all pretty hard.”
He said no buyer had been found yet to continue operating the attraction.
“Plenty of interest, but nobody wants to take Timbertown on,” he said.
“They’re only interested in the land.
“It’s a real big commitment and a real lot of work, and I just don’t think we live in that world anymore.”
Another major beneficiary of the strong summer trade has been Billabong Zoo, with operations manager Blake Stone describing the past two months of trade as “huge”.
“The school holidays have been huge for us here at Billabong Zoo, with busy days right across the break and visitors coming from all over Australia and overseas,” Stone said.
“It’s been great to see so many families choosing the zoo as a must-do while they’re in the area, which really shows how important Billabong Zoo is as a tourism drawcard to the region.”
He said new animal arrivals at the zoo had also generated significant excitement.
“The biggest stars have definitely been Basil and Josie, our Asian small-clawed otters who arrived mid-2025 and have absolutely stolen hearts,” he said.
“There’s also been a lot of excitement from guests hoping to spot our brand new puggle baby echidna, which has created a real buzz.
“It’s been one of those holiday periods that reminds us why we love what we do.”
With local beaches packed and “no vacancy” signs common across town during the peak holiday period, Greater Port Macquarie Tourism president Kerry Fox said the strong season had
Memories of Timbertown
By Bill HARROW
MEMORIES of Timbertown remain vivid for Robin Mears, who recalls the early days of the much-loved heritage project through the eyes of her family and the community that brought it to life.
In 1972, Robin’s husband Peter, who had a background in accounting,
was appointed the first manager of Timbertown after a committee formed several years earlier agreed the growing project needed dedicated leadership.
The vision was clear, to create a working timber settlement faithful to the period from 1880 to 1910, when the Wauchope area thrived on the harvesting of
Red Cedar.
Timbertown was established on land owned by the Bain family, with a stream running through the property known locally as the “big log water hole”.
This spot once supplied fresh water to the people of Wauchope and served as a natural gathering place where bullock teams and
travellers rested and grazed stock before continuing their journey to Port Macquarie.
The town’s beginnings were humble.
The first two buildings were churches relocated to the site, including a Presbyterian church moved from Huntingdon.
Robin fondly remembers helping design the
been felt across the entire tourism sector.
“Some of our larger attractions have had amazing attendances, and some of our restaurants and accommodation have been very busy,” she said.
“I think all around it’s been a very good tourism season.”
Business Port Macquarie executive officer Kylie Morris said the strong visitor
historical costumes worn by Timbertown staff, with all fabrics sourced from Purcells fabric shop in Wauchope, which also supplied patterns and design advice.
Alongside the hard work were moments of humour.
Robin recalls staff being rostered to shut church doors to keep goats from wandering inside, and a particularly clever draught horse that learned how to open gates.
numbers had flowed through to local retailers and events.
“We had a record crowd along the foreshore for the New Year’s Eve fireworks,” she said.
“Many local businesses had a great season leading up to Christmas, with a late rush as people did their lastminute shopping.
“People are still clearly favouring Port Macquarie as a summer holiday destination.”
Like many who were closely connected to Timbertown, Robin’s memories are coloured with pride, laughter and a quiet sadness following the project’s closure.
For those involved, Timbertown was more than a tourist attraction, it was a shared labour of love that captured an important chapter of the region’s history.
q Timbertown owner David Waite, pictured with Jaida from Forster, has revealed the Wauchope attraction has been very busy this summer. Photo: @Timbertown/Facebook.
q Town Beach has been popular with visitors this summer. Photo: Matt Taylor.
q Peter, Suzie and Robin Mearns. Photo: supplied.
q Rev Eric Main, Hazel Suiters, Robin Mearns and Elizabeth Main. Photo: supplied.
q The bulls at Timbertown.
Autism Swim’s Dippers return
LIGHTHOUSE Beach in Port Macquarie will once again host Autism Swim’s inclusive beach and ocean safety program, Dippers, starting later this month.
As Australia enters peak summer, demand for safe and accessible beach environments is at its highest.
Children on the autism spectrum are significantly
It will be delivered in partnership with Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club and supported by Autism Swim trained volunteers and clinicians.
overrepresented in drowning statistics, with research showing they are up to 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers.
Dippers was created to respond to this risk by providing inclusive, community-based beach and
Heart of the region
By Rachael THORPE
CHRONIC and terminal illnesses come at very high emotional, physical, and financial cost to individuals and their loved ones, but locals Sherill Weidenbohm and Julie Bowes are doing their best to alleviate that burden on the Mid North Coast.
Known as “The 2 Mums”, they have spent the past seven years as a constant and caring presence in the community.
During that time, they have raised funds, delivered meals, provided practical equipment and helped people receiving end-of-life care create lasting memories with their families.
After meeting as
workmates at Woolworths twenty years ago, the pair have built a lasting friendship.
Their tireless dedication to the local region has now earned them a nomination in the 2026 Spirit of Community Awards.
Every six weeks they can be found fundraising at Woolworths at Settlement Point selling homemade cakes, slices and lamingtons.
The stall is made possible by the ongoing support from store manager Jenny Worthington, a breast cancer survivor.
Alongside other fundraising efforts, including raffles and trivia nights, they have raised $10,000, which was donated this week to Port Macquarie Mid North Coast Cancer Institute to
support breast cancer care.
Sherrill told News Of The Area, “I love helping people out and knowing that I have been able to make their lives
ocean safety education in real coastal settings.
Now in its tenth year nationally, the Dippers program has become a recognised example of how inclusive practice can be delivered in community aquatic programs.
Dippers was also created to ensure neurodivergent participants and those with diverse support needs can access the same opportunities offered through community beach and ocean safety programs, in a way that feels safe, achievable and supportive.
“Lighthouse Beach is a much-loved local beach with a strong connection to the Port Macquarie community, and we’re proud to be delivering Dippers in this location,” said Antoinette Spear, General Manager of Autism Swim.
“The program helps ensure more people can safely access and enjoy the ocean, while building confidence, connection and essential beach safety skills in ways that work for them.”
Dippers at Lighthouse Beach will commence in
a bit better, I get a lot of enjoyment from this.”
Often alerted through word of mouth to elderly people living in isolation, Sherrill and Julie make a point of delivering treats to help brighten their day.
late January with plans to expand to additional coastal communities across Australia. For more information, visit autismswim.com.au.
The pair also provide items for the maternity ward at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.
Donated goods are placed into newborn packs to support mothers who need an extra helping hand.
The funds raised from their next stall on 21 February will aid the family of a seriously ill 10-monthold boy.
“The 2 Mums” can be found on Facebook @ The2Mums.
q The Dippers program returns to Lighthouse Beach with inclusive beach and ocean safety.
q The 2 Mums, Julie Bowes and Sherrill Weidenbohm at Town Green. Photo: @The2Mums.
q Dippers is being run in partnership with Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club.
STATE CONTROL
FROM Page 1
in a high-rise building incorporating residential, hotel, entertainment and commercial uses.
A concurrent rezoning is also part of the proposal.
The company behind the plan is Planet Warriewood, which has previously attempted to develop on the same waterfront site.
In 2019, it lodged a development application with Port Macquarie Hastings Council for a four-storey entertainment and commercial complex estimated to cost about $35 million.
The proposal included a nine-screen United Cinemas complex, gym, indoor bowling, food outlets, retail tenancies and basement parking.
That application complied with floor space ratio and height controls at the time but attracted council concerns over inadequate off-street parking and traffic impacts.
Despite amendments
proposed by the developer, including increased parking, the Northern Regional Planning Panel ultimately rejected the project in late 2023.
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts said Council was “not provided any opportunity for meaningful input or consideration” on the latest plan by Planet Warriewood.
In revealing the plan to the public last week, he said it was his obligation to inform the community about it given the scale and significance of what has been proposed.
Under the SSD process, any future development application and associated rezoning request would be lodged directly with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, which will undertake the assessment.
The final determination rests with the Planning Minister.
Further details on the plan will only become available if and when a
development application is lodged by the proponent.
The land at 23 Park Street is currently zoned E2 Commercial Centre under the Port Macquarie Hastings Local Environmental Plan 2011, with a maximum building height standard of 19 metres.
The State Government’s intervention comes as Council is already undertaking its own community engagement through the City Heart Masterplan, which is examining options to cater for increased density across the broader Port Macquarie CBD.
Mayor Roberts renewed calls for more State funding support for essential infrastructure required to accommodate population growth.
“I’d suggest the NSW Government should reflect on its current lack of funding support to date, for the critical network infrastructure upgrades Port Macquarie needs,” he said.
Council has been advocating for funding
to deliver the Cowarra Water Treatment Plant, the Thrumster Wastewater Treatment Plant and fasttracked traffic mitigation measures along the Wrights Road to Lake Road corridor, a congestion pinch point on a State-controlled road.
Mayor Roberts said he had written to Minister Scully requesting a meeting to discuss the Park Street proposal, the City Heart Masterplan and the infrastructure funding shortfall.
In a written statement, Minister Scully stressed the SSD declaration was not an approval.
“The Housing Delivery Authority is an optional pathway with strict criteria,” he said.
“A declaration is not an approval.
“If a development proposal is submitted it will go through a full merit assessment process which will consider traffic and infrastructure needs, among other things, and include a
Pressure on infrastructure
By Matt TAYLOR
MEMBER for Port Macquarie
Rob Dwyer believes the 18-storey mixed-use development proposed for
opposite Westport Park has the potential to deliver muchneeded housing while also providing economic benefits for Port Macquarie. If approved, he said, it
will revitalise a prime but currently undeveloped site and generate employment opportunities during the construction phase and create ongoing jobs in the
period of public exhibition for community feedback.”
The project was declared an SSD through the Housing Delivery Authority on December 19.
To date, no Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) have been issued and no development application has been lodged.
Planet Warriewood did not respond to a request for comment.
commercial sector.
However, Mr Dwyer also acknowledges that the project would place additional pressure on local infrastructure, including roads, water and sewer services.
“This proposed 18-storey development will dramatically change the Port Macquarie skyline,” he said, “And I encourage community members to have their say during the consultation period later this year.”
He said he would continue advocating for State Government funding to ensure capacity upgrades kept pace with growth.
Despite the affordable housing component, news of the proposal sparked immediate online backlash.
Many people have raised concerns about height, infrastructure and a lack of consultation.
“How dare the nameless faces pen pushing and box ticking their way through days, decide what will happen in our town,” Dianne
McDonald shared online.
“I would even be concerned at eight [storeys], but 18 is totally insane,” Linda Mueller said.
Others pointed to traffic and infrastructure constraints, with Sharron
Stuckey warning: “They better fix the infrastructure, e.g. parking and traffic, or Port will be a nightmare.”
But some commenters on online community notice boards supported the principle of higher-density housing, arguing growth needed to be accommodated somewhere.
“If hundreds of thousands to millions of migrants come to Australia then they need to live somewhere,” Karl Degraa wrote.
Details of the proposal will be subject to further assessment and public consultation should a development application be lodged.
What is affordable housing?
NEWS that approval, or not, of an 18-storey high part-residential, partcommercial complex at Westport will be based on “State Significant” criteria, has prompted News Of The Area to share what that term really means.
Here’s what you need to know.
Definition
Housing priced so people on very low to moderate incomes can rent or buy while still meeting basic living costs such as food, transport, healthcare and education. It is generally considered
affordable when it costs less than 30 percent of gross household income.
Planning rules
In NSW, many new residential developments must provide affordable housing – typically around 10 percent of gross floor area – often in exchange for planning incentives such as extra height or floor space.
State Significant Development (SSD)
Large projects can enter the SSD pathway by offering 10-15 percent affordable housing, allowing assessment by the NSW Government rather than
local councils.
Who manages it?
Affordable homes are usually managed by a registered Community Housing Provider, not sold on the open market. How long it lasts
Affordable housing is commonly required to remain affordable for at least 15 years, with some homes retained in perpetuity.
Pricing Rent is generally capped at around 80 percent of market rent, or set at no more than 30 percent of household income.
q The Park Street site where a proposal for an 18-storey mixed-use development has been fast-tracked by the State Government. Photo: Matt Taylor.
q The waterfront view across to Westport Park from 23 Park Street, the site of the proposed 18-storey development. Photo: Matt Taylor.
Memories of Carrick House holidays
By Pauline CAIN
MARGARET Townsend was reminded of her childhood holidays after reading recent articles in News Of The Area about the Manor House
Manor House is a former guest house on William Street in the 1930s and 1940s, now located at Hamilton Green on Hastings River Drive.
Originally from Tamworth, Margaret holidayed in the area with her parents during the 1940s.
A heritage study commissioned by Hastings Municipal Council in 1991 indicates the timber and weatherboard house was designed and built in 1926 by Mr W. Rosenbaum.
The property served as a family home until 1945, when it was converted into holiday flats.
Known as Carrick Guest House, it was formerly the Chapman family home of Hazel Chapman, née Finn.
“Town Beach was a haven for Tamworth people – coming down over that dreadful mountain,” Margaret said.
“We had been staying down at Camden Haven and came to Port Macquarie to have a look in the late 1940s.
“We got a booking with Hazel and Clive Chapman at Carrick Guest House.
“Hazel’s mother, who we called Nan, and her son Terry, who was a bit younger than
me, also lived there.
“We rented the big flat which went right across the house at the back.
“Looking at the front of the house the lounge room was on the right-hand side, which went into the kitchen.
“There was a hall down the middle and on the other side were the family bedrooms.
“Hazel played cards with Mum, and she made us cups of tea and Mock Chicken sandwiches.”
In the early 1950s, Margaret’s father, who worked for the Commonwealth Bank, bought a house on Pacific Drive and the family moved permanently to Port Macquarie.
Margaret attended Port Macquarie High School, and she and five girls from her class of 1958 still meet once a month.
As a young woman, Margaret worked at Arthur Yabsley’s grocery shop, then at the Panorama Guest House, and later at Sea Acres.
When she married in 1964, she and her husband Bob built a home in Swift Street, where they lived for nearly fifty years.
Margaret has many stories from her 75 years in Port Macquarie, as do many of her generation, reflecting the town’s changing pace of life and steady development.
Pride and Inclusion at Flynns beach
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT Macquarie will
host a vibrant celebration of inclusion, pride and community when “Rainbow Beaches 2026” takes over the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club (PMSLSC) at Flynns Beach.
Nominated as National Launch Club for the event and Surf Life Saving Australia’s NSW Club of the Year 2025, PMSLC will join 165 other surf clubs across Australia on
Valentine’s Day weekend.
The multi-day event will bring together lifesavers, locals and visitors to highlight that everyone is welcome at the beach.
Local PMSLSC member and Lifesavers with Pride Chairperson Jake Little told News Of The Area, “it was only 1980 when women were allowed into surf clubs.”
“And so surf life saving has been on a journey, in the past 30 years to inform everyone that no matter your
background, what you look like and who you like, the beach is for you.
“The event is very much linked to the core mission of Surf Live Saving, which is saving lives.”
Activities spanning panel discussions, a recordbreaking paddle out, family-friendly events and a youth party will be held to highlight the inclusivity of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“For Port Macquarie Surf Club, this event is
about signalling to the local community that everyone and anyone is welcome at the surf club,” Jake affirmed.
Festivities begin at 6.30pm on Friday 13 February with a Pride Panel titled “Serving the community you represent.”
The panel will explore inclusion, representation and community leadership within surf lifesaving and beyond, setting the tone for the weekend.
SLSA President, Peter Agnew AM ESM, SLSA NSW CEO, Adam Weir and Dr Amanda Cohen, a diversity and inclusion advocate will join the panel.
Jake said, “The panel discussion is an informal conversation around how surf clubs…not only surf clubs…but any sporting club, can tap into their local community and get more reach.”
The discussion will attempt to answer the question of how clubs and organisations can get more people involved, particularly those that have been excluded in the past.
For PMSLSC and the Port Macquarie community the
benefit lies in the “event attempting to get more people on our beaches to patrol,” explained Jake.
Saturday 14 February, will see the action move onto the sand and into the water.
The Rainbow Beaches Paddle Out will take place at Flynns Beach from 8am, aiming to be the world’s largest Pride Paddle Out and coinciding with Valentine’s Day.
From 9am, the Rainbow Beaches Pride Patrol will be held at the PMSLSC, followed by the inaugural Colour Fun Run at 10am.
Surf Life Saving Australia and Lifesavers with Pride promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for members of the LGBTQIA+ community across all surf clubs.
Out, Loud and Proud Port Macquarie, a group of volunteers who are passionate about bringing visibility, equality and awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community to the Mid North Coast have promoted the event on their social media channels.
Out, Loud and Proud Port Macquarie, Facebook
Page Administrator Rackas Robinson told News Of The Area, “Rainbow Beaches is about making a clear statement that our beaches, and our surf clubs (and the surrounding areas) are places where everyone belongs.
“The event goes beyond visibility; it's about building understanding, strengthening connections with the LGBTQIA+ community, and empowering allies to actively create safer, more inclusive spaces.”
“This weekend is about celebration, education and reminding people that the beach should always be a place of welcome for all,” said Rackas.
The weekend will conclude with a Valentine’s Day youth party at the PMSLSC from 6pm, with free pizza and drinks, and a focus on creating a safe, welcoming and fun environment for young people.
Registrations are now open for all events with organisers at the PMSLSC encouraging the community to get involved by registering via the link on their Facebook page @pmslsc.
q Margaret Townsend reflecting on life in Port Macquarie. Photo: Pauline Cain
q Surf Life Saving Australia Pride Rescue Board Launch at Port Macquarie SLSC. Photo: supplied
Regional ‘movers’ on the rise again
By Stephanie GARDINER/ APP
NEARLY six years after the COVID-19 pandemic sent many city residents over the hills and far away, regional Australia is again experiencing sustained population growth.
Consistent growth in the regions has re-emerged in the last two years, driven largely by city escapees according to research by the Regional Australia Institute.
City residents moving to the country outnumbered
migration in the opposite direction by 36 percent in the September 2025 quarter, the think tank's Regional Movers Index showed.
The net number of people moving to Australia's regions increased by 11.8 percent, slightly below a recent recorded two-year high.
"Planning and investment to accommodate this growth is a key challenge for governments, industry and communities," the institute said in releasing the index on Monday.
Separate figures from the
Bureau of Statistics showed the regional population grew by nearly 114,000 in 2023/24, with the biggest surge on Queensland's Sunshine Coast.
The growth has long put pressure on regional housing markets and infrastructure.
Dwelling values rose by 2.4 per cent in the three months to October 2025, as buyers shunned higher prices and competitive buying conditions in the cities, according to a recent report by analytics firm Cotality.
Regional rental vacancy rates were 1.7 percent in the final months of 2025, with rents up 6.2 percent in the country compared to 4.8 percent across the capitals.
The Institute has called for a greater focus on the pressures facing regional communities, creating a framework to boost livability, jobs and skills and sustainability by 2032.
The Regional Movers Index, which uses Commonwealth Bank customer data to track population movement,
showed Sydney and Melbourne were losing residents to the regions at a higher rate than the other capitals.
The top five areas for regional movers were Queensland's Sunshine and Fraser coasts, Greater Geelong and Moorabool in Victoria and Lake Macquarie in NSW.
Emerging hot spots for sea and tree-changers were Latrobe, Devonport and the Huon Valley in Tasmania and Wodonga and the Colac Otway Shire in Victoria.
The Tasmanian and Victorian regions were appealing to new residents for their industries, lifestyle and landscape, the bank's regional and agribusiness executive general manager Kylie Allen said.
"While the outlook is positive, attracting and retaining skilled professionals remains a challenge across regional areas," Ms Allen said.
"Even with a growing population, some sectors remain under pressure.
"Continued investment in training and upskilling will be key to meeting demand."
Polls show One Nation eclipsing Coalition
By Jacob SHTEYMAN/ AAP
has ambitions to turn One Nation into a genuine alternative to the mainstream party duopoly as Australia's rightwing political landscape undergoes a "monumental" shift.
Opinion polls reveal One Nation has overtaken the coalition as the nation's second most popular political movement in the wake of the Bondi terror attack.
The bombshell Newspoll, putting One Nation on a first preference share of 22 percent and the coalition at 21 percent, will heap pressure on Liberal leader Sussan Ley as her party continues its postelection soul-searching.
Opposition home affairs spokesman Jonno Duniam was less than effusive when asked if it was damaging to
her leadership.
"You could cut this any which way," he told ABC News.
"You could blame her, you could blame her shadow cabinet, you could blame a range of people. We've got work to do as a team, or else those numbers will never change."
The survey of 1224 Australians reported in The Australian on Monday showed One Nation's support surged seven percentage points over summer while the coalition's fell by three.
It's the first time One Nation has outpolled the coalition in the long-running survey and backs up a DemosAU poll, published by Capital Brief earlier in January, that showed Senator Hanson's party level with the coalition.
The polls underscore this is more than the usual mid-cycle wobble, political
strategist Kos Samaras said.
"It's a monumental crisis on the right: the conservative vote is fragmenting, the Liberal brand is bleeding legitimacy, and One Nation is vacuuming up the authentic right space that the coalition
keeps trying [and failing] to straddle," he wrote on social media platform X.
Looking to shed the tag of a fringe party of protest, One Nation must prove capable of delivering sound policies and provide a
Hearing checks prompt before school resumes
HEARING problems can affect a child's ability to listen, learn and build important skills at school, and Indigenous children are at higher risk of ear issues.
As children head back for 2026, parents and carers are being encouraged to make sure their child's hearing has been checked.
This is especially important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, who are at higher risk of starting their education at a disadvantage without regular hearing checks.
One in five First Nations children under six-yearsold, have experienced undiagnosed hearing loss at some point in their life, data from Hearing Australia shows.
Eight per cent suffered
genuine alternative to voters concerned about mass migration and high energy prices, Senator Hanson told radio 3AW Melbourne.
Voters aren't the only ones abandoning the coalition for One Nation.
persistent and chronic ear troubles.
"That's a lot of our First Nations kids and bubs," Hearing Australia's First Nations partnership specialist Kirralee Cross told AAP.
"If they're starting school and they have this hearing loss then it's going to impact on their ability to listen, to learn, to build connections and build really important skills when they start school."
Ms Cross, a Yorta Yorta woman, said getting children's ears checked early in life, and regularly is critical to make sure any hearing problems are picked up.
She said Hearing Australia recommends checks every six months until a child is four, but they can be performed more often if parents or carers have concerns.
"A lot of the time with these middle ear problems there are no symptoms," Ms Cross said.
"The parents, kids, families may not even know that there's anything wrong with their hearing.
"If it's not getting checked
regularly, when they start school ... they are put at a disadvantage."
Hearing Australia recently launched an educator's guide called Spirit of Sound, designed to support the hearing health of Indigenous children.
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, released in December, showed the proportion of Indigenous children who had long-term ear or hearing problems had halved since 2001.
These problems had been mainly caused by middle ear infections.
Ms Cross said it is heartening to see the downward trend over the past couple of decades but continued investment in programs like Hearing Australia's Early Ears, which has assessed more than 70,000 children since 2019, need to remain a priority.
"There's been a lot of work in this space, there's been a lot of support but we need to keep up the momentum," she said.
PAULINE Hanson
Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce jumped ship from the Nationals to One Nation before parliament broke for the summer.
q Another poll has put support for Pauline Hanson's One Nation party ahead of the coalition. Photo: AAP Graphics/Paul Braven/AAP PHOTOS.
q Parents are being urged to schedule hearing checks for their children before school starts. (PR IMAGE)
Town Beach leads the charge
By Matt TAYLOR
IF there is one corner of the Mid North Coast where the property heat is unmistakably on, it’s the Town Beach area in Port Macquarie.
The benchmark moment came just over a year ago, when McGrath Port Macquarie sold the penthouse at Salt apartments, directly opposite the beach, for a Port-record $6 million.
For McGrath managing principal Todd Bates and his sales colleague Steve Newman, it was more than a headline sale.
It was proof that Port
Macquarie’s in-town coastal market had entered new territory.
“It’s a stunning apartment, but those sorts of numbers had never been reached in Port Macquarie before,” Bates told News Of The Area.
“It really showed how strong demand is for quality property in town.
“It was breaking new ground.”
Pandemic shift drives long-term growth
That surge is reflected in the latest property data for the Port Macquarie Hastings local government area.
According to Cotality, local average house values have risen by 62.2 per cent over the past six years, outpacing the national average (58.1 per cent) and Greater Sydney (49.9 per cent).
Todd Bates, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the local market and has been ranked in the top 5 per cent of salespeople nationally, said the numbers align squarely with what he and his agents had seen on the ground.
“COVID taught people they didn’t need to be in an office to work,” he said this week.
“They could enjoy a high-quality lifestyle, and Port Macquarie offers one of the best coastal lifestyles anywhere.
“That really drove prices here.”
Town Beach: lifestyle without compromise
For Steve Newman, the appeal of the Town Beach precinct is simple: it removes the need to choose between convenience and lifestyle.
“If you’re in an in-town location, walking distance to the water and walking distance to town, there’s strong demand,” he said.
“People are embracing
lifestyle.”
Developers have taken note, targeting central Port sites as buyer appetite for premium apartments grows.
Projects such as Watervue, due to commence later this year but already selling off the plan, reinforce the belief that Town Beach and surrounding streets represent the region’s sweet spot.
“We’ve worked on a number of developments and seen a progressive increase in values, particularly in apartments,” Newman said.
“That demand isn’t slowing.”
Who’s buying, and why
Much of the demand at the premium end of the local market is being driven by buyers relocating from metropolitan areas, particularly Sydney.
“Predominantly, buyers are coming from Sydney,” Bates said.
“But we’re also seeing apartment buyers in the Town Beach area coming from Lighthouse Beach.
“Downsizing is a major driver.
“I’ve just done it myself.
“It frees you up from mowing lawns, and you can walk to Town Beach and walk into restaurants.
“It’s a really enjoyable lifestyle.”
Affordable options still exist
While Town Beach commands a premium, Bates said more affordable options
Town Green Buffet closes its doors
By Sis HIGGINS
AFTER six years serving the local community as the last standing buffet on the Mid North Coast, Town Green Buffet & Bar has announced it will close its doors at the end of the month.
In a post shared on Facebook, the business owners confirmed the closure followed a decision by new landlords not to renew the lease, as they plan to pursue their own ventures with the premises.
After years of welcoming families, friends and visitors through its doors, the business said the decision marked the end of an era for the region’s dining scene.
“We have to say goodbye,” the business owners said.
The venue has built a loyal following over the years, becoming a familiar gathering place for locals and visitors alike and earning a reputation as the final buffetstyle restaurant operating on the Mid North Coast.
The owners expressed heartfelt gratitude to those
who supported the familyrun business throughout its journey.
“We want to thank all of our customers over the years who have supported our family business for as long as they have,” the post said.
While the closure brings sadness for many, the buffet owners said the change also allows them to focus their energy on existing hospitality ventures elsewhere in the region.
“This also allows us to focus on our current ventures where you will find Birol and Mel at Akdeniz Grill House and Ottoman Kebab,” the post said.
Long-time team member Keshav will take a welldeserved break after many years of dedication to the business, marking the end of a significant chapter for staff as well as patrons.
Town Green Buffet & Bar will continue trading until Thursday, 30 January, opening seven nights a week and closing during lunches in its final weeks.
For diners wondering
remain for first-home buyers and investors.
Developments such as Akoya at 28-30 Waugh Street, nearing completion, are targeting that segment of the market.
“But at places like Akoya, there’s still an entry point for buyers who want to get into the market,” Bates said.
“You do have your luxury offerings up on the top floor, where there’s a three-bedroom water-view apartment.
“At Town Beach, you’re paying a lot more for exactly the same thing.”
Local market forecast
Both Bates and Newman believe the extraordinary pandemic-era property boom is unlikely to be repeated in 2026, but that steady growth is on the cards.
“I think we’ll see a steady increase this year,” Newman said.
“Interest rates will always have an impact, but when you look at the growth planned for Port and the town centre master plan, it’s only becoming more popular.”
Bates reflected on the pandemic years as unprecedented.
“We had buyers purchasing without even setting foot in properties, buying straight off 3D tours and paying well over just to secure them,” he said.
“Sales were up 400 per cent.
“We were doing a month’s worth of normal sales in what would usually take six months.
“I’ve never seen anything like it.”
where familiar faces have gone, Birol has extended an open invitation to reconnect.
Birol will be running Akdeniz Grill House at 72 Clarence Street in Port Macquarie. Their Facebook post ended with a friendly note to
the new occupants with, “We wish the new owners well with their future plans for the premises.”
q McGrath sales agent Steve Newman and McGrath Port Macquarie principal Todd Bates. Picture: Matt Taylor.
q The popular Town Green Buffet on a magical evening. Photo: @towngreenbuffetbar
Pickle Power
timers and regular PCYC faces all showed up, which made it feel like a proper event, not just a comp.
“People attending the club for all different reasons even stopped to watch.”
With multiple events on the agenda including singles, doubles and mixed doubles, and divisions organised by skill level and age group, the tournament followed an initial round-robin format.
Play followed by singleelimination medal matches in each category with competitors guaranteed multiple matches and ultimately, medals awarded in each bracket.
With high quality pickleball played across the entire weekend, there were some stand-out performances by local players that saw a heavy amount of metal stay on home turf.
Wade Hargreaves and Tanya Pye won gold in the Over 50s Mixed Doubles.
Ian Smallwood took home gold in the Men’s Over 60s Doubles with Ross Matados, as well as bronze with wife Judy in the Over 60s Mixed Doubles.
High-spirited duo Laura Robertson and Sophie Taylor dominated their way to silver in the Over 19s Women’s Doubles.
Port PCYC pairing Craig Luff and Kim Gallery fought hard in the Over 19s Mixed Doubles bronze medal match against fellow PCYC duo Edward Clebsh and Rikki Waller, with Craig and Kim ultimately taking home the prize.
The competitiveness of local pickleballers is evidentially thanks to the community that embraces them warmly week after week.
“The pickleball community at PCYC is unreal.
“Super welcoming,
supportive, and everyone is genuinely passionate about the sport”, said Zac.
“New players get pulled straight in, experienced players are happy to share tips, and everyone backs each other.
“It’s one of those communities where skill level doesn’t matter, if you show up, you’re in.”
With pickleball growing in popularity across the country, events like Dink fest are a huge win for regional areas.
The indoor nature of the PCYC was well-suited for summer play which was a big draw card for both local and travelling competitors.
It’s a much-welcome boost for the PCYC as well as for local businesses and the community as a whole.
“Events like this are massive for the centre”, said Zac.
Not only do events bring new faces through the doors
who may have not visited the PCYC before, but also build stronger connections with existing members and give them something to be proud of.
“[Events] create pathways from casual play into competitions, and makes PCYC something of a hub for emerging sports, not just traditional programs,” said Zac.
Now in its second year, Dink Fest continues to strengthen the pickleball community across regional NSW and beyond.
The event delivers highquality competitive play outside major city centres while welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.
Dink Fest is the first event of the 2026 sanctioned tournament calendar, Dink Fest signalling the beginning of competitive play for the year ahead.
Fantastic for fishing
By Kate SHELTON
ANGLERS have plenty to look forward to this long weekend, with the weather forecast looking fantastic for fishing.
We are expecting light north-east winds, providing a great window for those looking to get out on the water.
In the Camden Haven region, anglers have been finding success with bream and whiting.
Beach worms and pipis have proven to be the most effective baits for these species, and we expect to see an increase in tailor activity over the coming days.
For those hitting the rocks, there have been reasonable reports of mulloway.
Nearby, Lake Cathie is seeing a surge in whiting activity, particularly in the stretch between the two bridges and the lake
entrance.
The Hastings River has been a hotspot for mulloway following the recent rainfall.
Both lure fishing and live baiting have been successful: focus your efforts on the north breakwall for schoolsized fish, or try the south breakwall if you’re hunting for a larger trophy.
Before the rain, whiting were biting well near Pelican Island and Limeburners, and they remain a prominent catch. The breakwalls are also yielding quality bream and the occasional flathead.
For beach anglers, the northern end of Lighthouse Beach and other sheltered pockets remain consistent for bream and whiting, with live beach worms being the standout bait.
With the weather settling, offshore trips are back on the agenda.
Mid-week reports showed impressive catches of snapper and pearl perch in roughly 50 metres of water.
The FAD is currently holding plenty of mahi mahi, offering a great chance to secure a fresh seafood dinner.
Keep an eye on Plomer Bay and the Port Macquarie reefs, these areas are likely to hold mackerel, cobia and marlin for those seeking some top-water action.
Further north in the Macleay River, flathead numbers remain steady, with both breakwalls producing nice fish on bait and lures.
Offshore enthusiasts should find much better conditions this weekend compared to last. If the water temperature and clarity are right, it’s the perfect time to target mackerel,
Wauchope Mixed Bowlers
By Marie WINTER
MONDAY 19th January
2026 there were 22 social bowlers on the rinks at the Wauchope Country Club. The green was very heavy after 37ml of rain in the previous 24 hours reaulting in many short bowls. The lucky winning marble was rink 3 a pairs game of Sarah and David
Woodlands , The runners up on rink 5 were Maria Middleton, George Campbell and skip James Hayward
The lucky losing marble was rink 5 again with John Smyth, Ned (one shot) McKelvery and birthday boy Col Marr
The jackpot was picked up by the lucky number 7 on rick 4 by
Ken Webb, Geoff Brynon and Paul Sloan
Raffle prizes were picked up by Fay, Paul, Pam, Fred, Jenny W. and James
Next Monday 26th January come dressed in your Australia day theme colours and enjoy a game of social bowls, name in by 3.30pm to play at 4.30pm
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 20
cobia, marlin and wahoo.
q Laura Robertson and Sophie Taylor claimed silver in the 19+ Women’s Doubles DUPR: 3.49 and under category. Photo: supplied.
q Port Macquarie pickleballers Wade Hargreaves and Tanya Pye take gold. Photo: supplied.
q Jack Cunneen proudly displays the impressive 130.9kg Blue Marlin he landed during the Port Macquarie Garmin Golden Lure. Following this impressive
Bogie Bandits Social Golf
By Colin EVERINGHAM
TUESDAY 13/01/2026
Number of Players – 21
Game Played –Stroke –Monthly Medal Winner- John Gillard -
Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club
By Drusi MEGGET
PORT
Macquarie Maroro
Outrigger Canoe Club travelled to Newcastle on Saturday 17 January for a regatta, the Pasha Dasha Regatta. We did well considering that we’re a small club.
We’re happy to report our good results.
In the OC2, i.e. a canoe for 2, Phil and Clare came 2nd. In the OC6s (6 paddlers) we raced in 2 races, the Short Course of 10km and Changes which is 3 laps totalling 18km. We won golden masters *, and won the golden masters changes race. The senior masters mixed were 5th out of 9.
We had a great day out and the weather was pleasant. This was a surprise because the
January date often has below par weather. In 2025 there was a deluge and the regatta was cancelled until March. This year some forecasts predicted thunderstorms for the whole day. Wonder of wonders, the rain did not reach Newcastle until after the paddlers were all home and dry. Newcastle club are very organised and know how to run a great regatta.
We look forward to doing it all again next year. Our club, Port Macquarie Maroro Ourtrigger Canoe Club, is happy for new people to have a go. If you’re interested please come and find us at the Marina in Port Macquarie. For Come-andtry, be there on a Sunday at 7.30am. Dress code is be prepared to get wet.
Port Macquarie Sailing Club
By Jeff WALSH 18-1-26
SUNDAY was supposed to be race 3 of the handicap start series, but with low numbers due to the overcast weather with showers & light breezes, it was decided to hold race 3 of the summer series at the Port Macquarie Sailing Club. The day certainly was a challenge with some showers, a patchy Southeast breeze and a quick run out tide. Steve Couch set a shortish course, all buoys to Port, with a work to buoy A just down past Girraween Road, then pretty much a run past buoy B off King Point to buoy C across the river from the McInherney Park boat ramp, a reach across to buoy D off the Rowing Club, then a work back to the start-finish line complete the lap. The catamaran did 3 laps, as did the monohulls.
With people away and an uncomfortable day, Tony Kuhn on Stella was the only Arrow Cat to race the course for the points.
There were 4 monohulls in their fleet. Simon Gandy sailed single handed in his NS14 ‘Upbeat’ to take the win. Even after the yardsticks were applied,
KCC Men's Golf Report Kew Bowling Club
By Danny LLOYD
CAMDEN HAVEN TYRE & SERVICE sponsored last Thursday’s Stableford.
123 starters took to the links with Terry Case winning A grade on c/b from Glen O’Brien (40pts).
B grade went to Greg Mitchell with 42 and Charlie Hartshorne dominated C grade with 44.
Theo Vandermeer won the GAREL GOLF NTP for $119.
Saturday was KCC’s first major for 2026, the “Summer Cup”, sponsored by KEW CORNER STORE, with 118 starters. Tom Bateman and Dan Morgan both shot 70 with Tom prevailing on countback for the A grade scratch.
Nett winners were: Stefan Everingham (A-66), Sean Coenraad (B-65) and Jake Westerhuis (C-64).
The prestigious NTP went to Kye Dunkley ($104).
Kew Ladies Bowls
By Velvanie HARTAS
TUESDAY 20th January
Today was a much cooler day and a lot more pleasant to play.
We only had three rinks
Playing today but still everyone enjoyed themselves.
Kew Ladies Bowls
By Velvanie HARTAS
FIRST of all happy new year to everyone.
Well on the 6th January was our first day back at bowls. And it was great to see a good roll up of members.
We ended up with 4rinks playing.
It was hot playing but there was a slight breeze which helped. But everyone seemed to enjoyed themselves still. 13th January
Another warm day for bowls but again I believe there was a good roll up and everyone enjoyed themselves.
18th JANUARY, 2026
In Wednesday Social Bowls, Keith Collins, Chicka Thompson and Ian Hodgkinson claimed first prize. The Runners Up were Henry Reynolds, Ray Pantlin and Dave Jones. Voucher winners were Ray Pantlin, Ian Poole, Dennis Rothe and Dave Harvey.
In the Saturday Cashpot Triples the major prize winners were Marg Ashford, Steve McGregor and Mick Ashford with 2 wins and 18 ends. Runners Up were Lyn Stuttard, Terry Miles and Mick Stuttard, while Peter Hope, Peter Laing and Phil Collins claimed the consolation. Voucher winners were Mick Ashford, Jeff Wylie, Terry Miles and Rod “NoEl” Fokes.
An Australia Day Bowls Event is being planned, with a BBQ Lunch / Sausage
Terry Howard in the Impulse ‘Flying Dragon’ was 5 seconds behind in 2nd place. Jeff Walsh was next in another Impulse ‘Serenity’ finally back on the water after missing the first half of the season with a torn Achillies tendon. Steve Bohlsen rounded out the fleet sailing single handed through the showers in his MG414 ‘Interceptor’. The
Sizzle to follow. Entries can be made on the clip board in our Club House. A fun social celebration is planned, with random teams and mufti dress. All are welcome.
At the recent Committee Meeting is was decided to postpone Monday Monthly Tournaments until further notice. A review is being held to determine a new format, in an effort to attract more bowlers.
Reminders that Open Pennants commences on Saturday 14th February, and the Travelling Bowlers AGM is being held on Sunday 1st February, commencing at 9am. Bowls this week include Wednesday Social (mufti dress) and Friday Jackpot Triples, names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start.
LUSC Snooker Club
By Michael EYLES
THE Tuesday night competition held on 13/1/26 had 18 players compete. The Major Final was won by Ron White, and the runner up was Glenn Kunze. The Minor Final winner was Jeff
Locke who defeated Peter Whaley. The Thursday night competition held on 15/1/26, attracted 14 players. Rocky Davis won the Major Final, defeating Peter Whaley. In the Minor Final, Charlie Moffatt prevailed defeating Phil Easton. Michael Eyles
handicap finish order was the same as the yardstick results.
Next week is the 2nd round of sprint races, races 7 – 11, starting at 11.30am. Steve Bohlsen is on duty. Next Saturday, a number of our members will be competing in Queens Lake Sailing Club’s ‘Queen of the Lake’ Marathon race with a briefing at 12.30pm.
Lake Cathie Bowling Club
By Suzanne MILES
IT SADDENS me to report that Jenny Roberts has passed away, she was one of our champion Lady Bowlers representing our Club at all levels. Her funeral will be held at Port Macquarie Crematorium, Wednesday 21st January 11.30am and Celebration of Life at LCBC 1.00pm. R.I.P. Jenny Roberts.
TUESDAY, 13th January, Ladies Minor Singles Club ChampionshipChristine Baldwin - winner. Patty Carrrunner-up.
Ladies Social BowlsSusan Malzard, Cynthia Jones & Sandra Bloch/Skip - winners.
Glenys Potts, Nola Scott & Barbara Roberson/Skiprunners-up. A good roll-up with 36 Ladies playing.
WEDNESDAY, 14th
January, Social Open PairsAndrew Richards & Rod Quirk - winners.
Men's Minor Singles Club ChampionshipPlayers progressing to
third roundDick Pierce, Martin Cassidy, Graydon Findlay, Peter Tracy, John Fuller, Henry Marsburg, Bill Oluasen, Rob Pengilly, Greg Carr, Ken Pritchard, Phil Innes, Mike Ryan, Bob Young, Cliff Taylor, Mark Davies & John Greenwood.
THURSDAY, 15th January, Men's Social TriplesRink 15 - Graeme Perrett, Ray Downes & Keith Woods. Rink 19 - Nick Hope, Brian Robinson & Glynn Pickham.
Rink 15 - Bill Metcalf, Mike Storrier & Glen Coey - Silver Medal. FRIDAY, 16th January, Scroungers & Skins Fun DayRoy Peasnell - winner. Anne Wilson - runner-up.
SATURDAY, 17th January, was the start of a new concept at LCBC with a trial on Open Gender Social Pairs which has created quite a bit of interestRink 15 - Harry Hicks & Peter MacDonald. Rink 17 - Danny Murray & John Fuller.
q Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club.
q Simon Gandy in his NS14 ‘Upbeat’ through the showers to take the win in the monohulls.
By Manny WOOD
Barking
up the wrong tree
BARBARA and Wally have been in a de facto relationship for six years.
There is one child of the relationship, their four-year-old daughter.
When their relationship breaks down, Barbara and Wally seek legal advice and are able to negotiate consent orders, which resolve parenting issues in relation to their child.
They are also able to resolve their property issues, on the basis that they agree to retain the assets in their respective possession and are responsible for any debts and liabilities in their names.
Unfortunately, they are unable to reach agreement regarding one particular item of property, 16-year-old border collie, Wolfie.
Wally seeks specific legal advice relating to his rights regarding Wolfie.
Wally’s solicitor informs him that amendments to the Family Law Act had recently been introduced, relating to companion animals.
These amendments empower the Court to make an order, specifically relating to Wolfie.
Wally concedes that Barbara owned Wolfie before their relationship commenced, but insists that he should be entitled to spend time with Wolfie at the same time that he spends time with their daughter.
Wally proposes that if he is granted time with Wolfie, he will take responsibility for half of all Wolfie’s veterinary costs during the dog’s lifetime.
Barbara opposes Wally’s proposal and he commences action in the Family Court.
Barbara’s barrister, in his submissions to the Court, states that a careful analysis of the legislation reveals that whilst the Court has the power to make orders regarding the ownership of Wolfie, it does not have the power to make any of the orders Wally seeks, which are akin to parenting orders.
Wally’s barrister argues that the Court has a broad discretion to make “ancillary” orders regarding the “use” of “property” owned by the parties.
Given that the legislative provisions regarding companion animals had been recently introduced, the Court conducts a careful examination and treats Wally’s application as a test case.
After a three-day hearing, Wally’s application is denied and the parties pay their own substantial legal costs.
Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law, at manny@ tblaw.net.au, or call(02) 66 487 487.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
To our leaders: explain overdevelopment
DEAR News Of The Area
This is an open letter to Mayor Adam Roberts and State MP Robert Dwyer, and a request to our local leaders to explain to the community what overdevelopment means to them – and what they actively plan to do about it.
People deserve to know where our elected representatives stand on this issue.
To set the scene, many believe our leaders have been avoiding the core issue when it comes to discussing traffic snarls at the Wrights Road roundabout.
Focusing on that intersection alone masks the tougher topic happening right across this region.
It’s really a conversation about overdevelopment and it needs to be properly addressed.
Unless we start having an honest discussion about overdevelopment, the community we love will quickly become a messy and dysfunctional sprawl for all the generations to follow.
Drive around and look around.
We’re at a real tipping point.
Major land and home developers are pumping more and more people and cars onto an outdated road network that simply doesn’t function, and yet our Mayor repeatedly calls on the state government to do something about the road issue.
And let’s be blunt here.
A few extra lanes on a roundabout, and a few extra traffic lights, will not get this done.
Nor is it just about roads or traffic.
It’s about having the right infrastructure in place for all those new people, including everything from sewage
plants to footpaths.
It’s also about the impacts on our waterways and trees for the koalas, to name but a few.
There are 11,000 new homes slated for this area in the years ahead.
Yep, 11,000 more houses – and all the people and cars that come with them.
Just draw breath and think about what that looks like, especially when the system doesn’t work now.
And therein is part of the problem.
Councils will always complain that they’re bound by state government planning laws to approve housing.
It’s not really their fault, they say.
But this council doesn’t just approve houses; it approves entire estates and suburbs.
A few years ago I raised this issue as an emerging trend and suggested that Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills would eventually join up.
This was howled down by the Deputy Mayor of the time… saying this would never be allowed to happen.
Well, fast-forward a few years and take a look at where the new developments are and where they’re headed.
Also, think about what Ocean Drive traffic will look like between Laurieton and Port Macquarie in another five years, once the developers have left with their profits and the houses are all in?
Just imagine.
When it comes to our rapidly expanding traffic problems, these mega developments would seem to be a bit like our council pouring petrol on a bonfire and then acting surprised about the outcome - as well as wanting someone else to take responsibility for fixing the problem.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
Frequently when I go shopping someone pushes a trolley into my ankles. How do I avoid this painful scenario?
Jim R.
Dear Jim,
In the wrong hands, a trolley can be a weapon of mass destruction, thrust into the legs of an unsuspecting shopper when they are simply trying to reach for a bag of frozen peas (or, if in Aldi, a pair of snow boots, a cocktail shaker, and a battery-operated angle grinder).
At the state level, representative Robert Dwyer has been doing the “petition thing” in parliament, trying to kick-start a debate about the Wrights Road issue in particular.
Fair enough to force some talking, but a shame it needs that approach to even get brought up.
Of course, things become a bit more difficult when you’re in opposition, and it’s worth remembering that all the stuff Mr Dwyer would like to happen now wasn’t actually done when his own mob were in power.
Instead, just the occasional Band-Aid.
All of which raises the question of what is the big picture solution?
Surely… it would still be an orbital road, before it’s simply no longer possible to be built (because of the overdevelopment).
This road would be the transport fix for a succession of planning failures from our current leaders, and those who came before.
But then, of course, this is hardly about Port Macquarie alone.
There’s the whole issue of Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, Laurieton and what traffic on Ocean Drive is going to become in the future.
Over to you Mayor Roberts and MP Dwyer. Please let us know where you stand on this.
If this is “progress” we’re experiencing, it certainly doesn’t feel like it for a growing number of your gridlocked constituents.
At the very least, as our elected representatives, future generations deserve to have your position on the record when it comes to the issue of overdevelopment.
Brian Johnson Lake Cathie
There should be the requirement of a trolley licence, with no trolley issued unless the shopper has been through a series of basic etiquette tests. These include, at a minimum: -the ability to start and stop within five seconds without the need to operate as a battering ram
-competence in moving quietly and efficiently down the aisle instead of using the trolley as a dodgem car with a squealing toddler in tow -the ability to make your way calmly to a checkout instead of standing with a leg in each queue, a bit like Trump between Greenland and Venezuela (hedging your bets on whatever scenario will move more quickly so you can bludgeon your way through).
The trolley licence should also include post-shopping etiquette. All shoppers should be marked as “Competent” or “Not Yet Competent” as they make their way to their vehicle. Scraping the trolley along the side of a mint-condition BMW without leaving a note is an instant suspension.
Parking the trolley on a verge and then walking away as it rolls into incoming traffic is also a black mark indicating that further training is required.
Standing in a huddle with other shoppers talking about utter dribble while another person is trying to pass, will be noted as extreme passive aggression (and/ or willful ignorance) and result in additional social skills training (which is a core competency unit that can cross over to other training courses such as 'Parking in a Public Carpark' and 'Cafe Considerations 101').
And, finally, leaving your trolley with rubbish in it, making it the problem of the next shopper, will require a trolley training intervention.
I feel these interceptions will resolve your issues, Jim.
Perhaps it will make you feel better to know you are not alone.
Many of us bear the scars (quite literally) of callous trolley steerers.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
SUDOKU
PORT MACQUARIE
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BIKE, Girls, pink, near new, 50cm wheels, $60. 0415 858 981.
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gear, various hardware, helmet and harnesses. Make an offer. ph 0447 610 321 CHEST Freezer Kelvinator, white, 150L discontinued model, GC $100. 0400 779 531 SOLD
CHILD care seat up to age 7, as new, pick up pt Macquarie, $55 Tel. 0407 256 573
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Caravans
Caravans
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY CALL THE MIDWIFE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
This period drama moves into the 1970s with its trademark care and compassion to unpack the social issues of the era in its 14th season. In Saturday’s episode, there’s a new arrival at Nonnatus House in the shape of Sister Catherine (Molly Vevers, above left, with Jenny Agutter). As the convent’s latest recruit finds her feet, Phyllis (Linda Bassett) supports a pregnant mother of seven who is reluctant to have another child. Elsewhere, Shelagh (Laura Main) and Sister Veronica (Rebecca Gethings) help a mum with her disabled son.
FRIDAY, January 23
MONDAY
AUSTRALIA DAY LIVE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
A live spectacle from the steps of the Sydney Opera House that celebrates the diversity of Australia’s cultures, communities and laidback lifestyle, this annual concert is one hot ticket. Hosts Jeremy Fernandez (pictured), Megan Burslem and John Foreman have saved a spot for ABC viewers as an exciting line-up of homegrown talent takes the stage. Cody Simpson, Kate Ceberano, William Barton, social media sensation Jude York and supergroup The Fabulous Caprettos all feature before an unforgettable aerial show over Circular Quay. The event will also pay tribute to those affected by December’s Bondi Beach terror attack, and introduce remarkable Australians who will share their stories with the nation.
WEDNESDAY ELSBETH
TEN, 9pm
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 1.00 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. (Final, R) 1.45 Goolagong. (Final, PG, R) 2.40 Classic Countdown Extras. (PG, R) 2.55 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 3.25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat. (Final, R) 3.55 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Living Black. (R) 2.05 New Zealand From A Train. (PGaw, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Ocean Wreck Investigation. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 All Creatures Great And Small.
8.20 Art Detectives. (PGv) A wine expert dies during an exclusive tasting.
9.05 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
9.35 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Ml, R) A satirical news program.
10.05 A Life In Ten Pictures: Amy Winehouse. (Madl, R)
11.00 ABC Late News.
11.15 Smother. (Mal, R)
1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
3.30 Sinking The German Fleet. (PGav, R) 4.30 Bamay. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. The Challenger. 10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. An expert panel examines all the big news and issues with a deep dive into the world of cricket. 11.15 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 3. Highlights.
12.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
12.45 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R) Presented by Dr Harry Cooper.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
OK, we’ll admit it –when a cop show has high-calibre celebrities lining up around the block to be guest stars, it can make the “whodunnit” format rather redundant.
This savvy
The Good Wife spin-off solves that problem by presenting its crimes in reverse. Investigator Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston, pictured) usually has an inkling of who the crooks are from the get-go – and so do we – the fun lies in finding out how she corners them. In season three’s premiere, Stephen Colbert played a late-night host who met an untimely end. This week’s tale casts Arrested Development’s David Cross as an ex-con caught up in a hostage situation. Stay tuned for a seriously star-studded list of suspects.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 6. From Melbourne Park. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 6. From Melbourne Park.
12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+mv, R) Maggie empathises with a patient whose mother is afraid to consent to her son’s risky surgery.
1.00 Next Stop.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) A bull goes on a rampage.
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) The team reboots a game-changing iconic ball.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (R) 8.40 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple and their three small kids are feeling cramped in their
SATURDAY, January 24
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PGadhlnsv) 12.00 News. 12.30 Call The Midwife. (PG, R) 1.30 Art Detectives. (PGv, R) 2.15 All Creatures Great And Small. (R) 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 4.00 Becoming Human. (PG, R) 5.00 The ABC Of... (PG, R) 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R)
6.00 Back Roads: The Great Australian Road Trip. (R) Presented by Heather Ewart.
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 Call The Midwife. (PG) Shelagh and Sister Veronica help a disabled child.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) Vera investigates after a student is violently killed and dumped at the foot of three mythical monoliths.
11.00 The Jetty. (Ml, R) 12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses.
8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Adaptable Arosa Line. (PGn, R) Looks at the Arosa Railway.
9.40 The Secret DNA Of Us. (PGa, R)
10.50 Scottish Islands With Ben Fogle. (PG, R)
11.55 House Of Promises. (Ma, R)
3.30 Gestapo: Hitler’s Secret Police. (Ma, R)
4.30 Bamay. (PG, R)
5.00 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SUNDAY, January 25
6.00
(R)
(Final,
(Final,
Programs.
Muster
6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Australian Of The Year 2026. Hosted by Leigh Sales.
8.45 The ABC Of: Evonne Goolagong Cawley. (PG, R) Hosted by David Wenham.
9.15 The Jetty. (Final, MA15+a) Ember tries to uncover the truth about Amy.
10.20 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)
11.20 MOVIE: Wake In Fright. (1971, Masv, R)
1.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.55 Smother. (Mal, R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Once Upon A Time In Space. (PG) 9.30 Pompeii: The Last Mysteries Revealed. (Mans, R)
10.20 Putin And The West: The Next Chapter. (PG, R)
11.30 Black Gold. (PGal, R)
1.05 Building The Impossible. (PG, R)
2.00 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)
3.10 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)
4.05 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS Science Technology Health Show.
4.30 PBS Washington Week. 5.00 PBS International Affairs Show. 5.30 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Round 1. SA Kick It. 8.30 Irresistible: Why We Can’t Stop Eating. 10.15 The Grudge. 11.45 The Gentle Art Of Swedish Death Cleaning. 2.45am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 MOVIE: The Sound Of Music. (1965, G, R) A woman becomes governess to an Austrian family. Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer.
10.40 Air Crash Investigations: Control Catastrophe. (PGa, R) A look at the case of Air Astana Flight 1388. 11.40 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 4. Highlights. 12.40 MOVIE: A Job To Die For. (2022, Mav, R) A woman lands her dream job. Revell Carpenter.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 7. From Melbourne Park. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 7. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+mv, R) Marcel clashes with the chief of oncology.
1.00 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R) A death puts Sarah Scully in the spotlight.
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) Religious program.
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple in Essendon want to renovate their home.
8.40 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives.
9.50 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) Someone threatens to use a nerve agent against the emergency services.
11.00 Matlock. (PGadl, R) The team takes on an arson case.
12.00 Elsbeth. (PGa, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. The Final. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-game coverage of The Final. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. Looks at an undercover operation. 12.00 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 5. Highlights. 1.00 Temple. (Premiere, Malv) A surgeon becomes embroiled in a strange enterprise.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 8. From Melbourne Park. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 8. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 The First 48: Cruel Intentions. (Ma, R) Detectives investigate a mother of two’s murder. 1.00 Next Stop. (R) A look at holiday destinations.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R)
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today.
6.30 10 News+. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal) Hosted by Julia
Pagan Peak. (MA15+av, R) 3.35 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)
4.05 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 TKO: Total Knock Out. 9.10
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGl) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 9-1-1. (Return, M) In honour of Bobby Nash’s sacrifice, the 118 comes together to dedicate the firehouse in his memory.
10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+asv, R)
12.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (MA15+s)
1.00 Conviction. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 9.
11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 9.
12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+mv, R) Ahmad works to thaw a frozen criminal.
1.00 Next Stop. (PGa, R) A look at holiday destinations.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Sonny has a series of strange encounters.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts discusses golf.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
TUESDAY, January 27
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00
For The
Letters. (PG, R)
(PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00
(PGa, R) 2.00
(PG,
3.00 Would I
To You? (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PGa, R) 3.55 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 7.50 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 10.00 Girls Will Be Girls. (2024, M, Hindi) 12.10pm White Squall. (1996, M) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.20 Walk With Me. (2017, PG) 5.05 The Importance Of Being Earnest.
4.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa,
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Ma, R)
8.30 Portillo’s 200 Years Of The Railways. (PG)
9.40 Aerial Australia. (PGaw, R)
10.30 SBS News.
11.00 Exit. (MA15+adls)
11.55 DNA. (MA15+a, R) 1.40 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R) 2.30 24 Hours In A&E. (Mal, R) 3.25 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R) 3.55 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGal) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 Doc. (Return, Mav) Amy’s past comes back to haunt her when a desperate father sacrifices everything to secure his daughter’s heart transplant.
10.30 St. Denis Medical. (Return, PGal)
11.30 Autopsy USA. (MA15+a, R)
12.30 MOVIE: A Jealous Friendship. (2021, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 10. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 10.
12.00 Chicago Med.
Chrissy explores Busselton Jetty. 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 7.40 Walk With Me. (2017, PG) 9.20 Kindred. 11.05 Haute Couture. (2021, M, French) 12.55pm Charlie And Boots. (2009, M) 2.50 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 4.45 Gurrumul. (2017, PG) 6.35 The Return Of The Soldier. (1982, PG) 8.30 Perfect Days. (2023, PG, Japanese) 10.50 The Last Emperor. (1987, M) 1.55am Late Programs.
WEDNESDAY, January 28
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 Steven Universe. 8.50 Adventure Time. 9.15 Teen Titans Go! 9.35 We Bare Bears. 9.50 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.10 My Adventures With Superman. 10.35 Late Programs.
8.25 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Final, M)
THURSDAY,
9.20 Weight Of The World. (MA15+a, R)
10.30 SBS News.
11.00 Face To Face. (Mals) 11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+s) 1.30 Golden Boy. (Mdln, R) 2.25 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R) 3.20 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PGn, R) 3.50 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.50 China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 MOVIE: Just Add Romance. (2019, PGa, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGl) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 MOVIE: The Sapphires. (2012, PGalsv, R) Four singers learn about love, friendship and war. Miranda Tapsell.
10.40 Air Crash Investigations: Cockpit Catastrophe. (PGa, R) 11.35 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
12.05 Wolfe. (MA15+av)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 11. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 11.
12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+mv, R) Maggie’s budding romance takes flight.
1.00 Next Stop. (R) A look at holiday destinations.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) The park receives much-needed rain.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PGl, R) A panel of experts discusses golf.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
MOVIES (32)
January 29
Children’s Programs. 5.55pm
(R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Women’s Surf Coast Classic. 2.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Ocean Wreck Investigation. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6am Home In WA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Master. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.25 The Return Of The Soldier. (1982) 8.20 Perfect Days. (2023, PG, Japanese) 10.40 My Father’s Mexican Wedding. (2023, M, Spanish) 12.40pm Sing Street. (2016, M) 2.40 The Movie Show. 3.20 Discovering Film. 4.15 Finding You. (2020, PG) 6.30 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 8.30 The Whale. (2022, M) 10.40 I Want You Back. (2022, M) 12.50am Late Programs.
8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)
9.20 In Flight. (Madlv)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Before We Die. (MA15+v) 11.40 This Town. (MA15+l, R)
2.00 24 Hours In A&E. (M, R) 2.50 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PGas, R) 3.20 The Andes Tragedy: 50 Years Later. (PGa, R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R)
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
3.15 Mastermind Aust. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James May And The Dull Men. 9.25 Under The Banner Of Heaven. 11.05 MOVIE: The Year Of Living Dangerously. (1982, M) 1.10am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 Food That Built The World. 12.30pm WorldWatch. 1.00 Mastermind Aust. 2.00 Devoured. 2.50 Insight. 3.50 News. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James May And The Dull Men. (Final) 9.25 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.15 The UnXplained. 11.05 Homicide. Midnight Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Tougher In Alaska. 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
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Justin and Leah are at an impasse.
8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Secret Service. (2014, MA15+lv, R)
A troubled young man must prove his mettle after he is recruited into a secret British spy organisation. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Samuel L Jackson.
11.15 To Be Advised.
12.15 MOVIE: A Mother’s Terror. (2021, Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 12. Women’s semi-finals. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 12. Women’s semi-finals.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Finding You. (2020, PG) 7.15 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 9.10 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 11.10 The Last Emperor. (1987, M) 2.15pm The Return Of The Soldier. (1982, PG) 4.15 Perfect Days. (2023, PG, Japanese) 6.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 8.30 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 10.30 Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 12.20am The Whale. (2022, M) 2.35 Late Programs.
OVER 186 keen pickleballers descended on the Port Macquarie PCYC this past weekend, their eyes set on serving their way to victory at the annual Dink Fest Pickleball Competition.
Held over two days, Dink Fest drew competitors from far and wide, with the centre seeing crowds lining the hallways and filling the grandstand to get a glimpse of the action.
“The atmosphere was buzzing all weekend”, Zac Campbell, PCYC Port Macquarie Club Manager, told News Of The Area.
“Courts were packed, heaps of people hanging around between games, cheering, laughing, and genuinely getting behind the players.
“You could feel that mix of competitiveness and community vibe at the same time.”
“It wasn’t just players either – friends, family, firstCONTINUED Page 10
q Competitors Fiona Ross-Borjeson and Bernadette Worner enjoyed the tight competition in the Women’s Doubles. Photo: supplied.
