PORT Macquarie boxers enjoyed a successful outing in the Hunter on Saturday evening, taking two victories by unanimous decision at the Singleton Civic Centre Fight Night.
Local fighters Jordan Green and Ryan Campbell, from the Port Macquarie Boxing Club, kept to their game plans to secure memorable wins.
With the fight card boasting 20 matchups from lightweight to heavyweight divisions, Green was the local club’s first fighter of the evening.
Starting the first round calm and methodical, Green suffered an early CONTINUED Page 4
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q Nicky Leech, Ryan Campbell, Jordan Green and Mick Eggins from Port Macquarie Boxing Club.
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Brawl leads to Oztag bans
By Rikki WALLER
THEY may both hail from the calmness of seaside towns, but Port Macquarie and Wollongong found themselves dumped in a wave of rage over the weekend, at the end of their U17s boys Oztag game in Coffs Harbour.
What was meant to be a competitive spectacle of skill and speed at the State Championships, soon became a mess of swinging arms, swearing, and punching that led to a local father and son being handed life bans from the sport.
In wild scenes caught on video and shared across social media, a number of 15-year-old and 16-year-old boys, along with their parents, can be seen pushing and shoving one another after what appears to have been an expletive-laden
shaking of hands, postmatch.
At the centre of the footage, a Port Macquarie parent can be seen storming the field and slapping what appears to be the Wollongong coach across the face.
Another man enters the scene from the side and proceeds to hit the parent, which then causes outrage - leading to him being pushed to the ground and punched.
Parents and players can be seen squaring up to one another as the chaos continues.
No immediate action was taken against either team following the incident, and Wollongong went on to compete in the quarter-finals the next day.
Incident reports from Oztag officials and statements from persons involved have since been
reviewed.
Australian Oztag CEO Chris Cowan said in a statement to media, "As a result of the preliminary and ongoing investigation three life bans and five suspensions ranging from three to five years will be placed on persons and players involved.
“In addition, the two Associations will receive fines.
“Conduct that places participants at risk will not be tolerated under any circumstances.*
Australian Oztag Tournament Director Bill Harrigan stated, "We express our sincere disappointment with the spectators, officials and players that have brought the game into disrepute when we should be celebrating a record attendance and participation at the Junior State Cup with over 340
teams and 5000 players.”
Unable to comment on the specific details from the weekend or the individuals involved, Port Macquarie Oztag representative Shelley Sprague expressed the club’s stance on bad behaviour.
“The incident is being investigated, and further context has been put forward to NSW Oztag as to how and why it escalated,” she told News Of The Area.
“Port Macquarie Junior Oztag is proudly represented across multiple divisions by participants from a diverse range of cultures and nationalities.
“Our association maintains a firm zero tolerance policy toward racial slurs or any form of vilification.
“Such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be condoned.”
Ms Sprague shared that many U17s players are long-time participants in the local Oztag competition who give back to the association by refereeing and volunteering in the canteen.
Despite the brawl, Port Macquarie Oztag had a successful weekend at the Championships.
“This year was the largest Junior State Cup by participation recorded for NSW Oztag.
“The Port Macquarie Junior Association fielded eight teams, which is the most teams from our small association to ever compete.
“All of our association teams competed with courage, determination and pride against some incredibly strong opposition.”
By Bill HARROW
HASTINGS Co-op has celebrated its 110th anniversary during a re-launch attended by MPs Alison Penfold, Michael Kemp and Robert Dwyer, councillors, local business owners, members of the community, and senior staff.
Dubbed its “comeback tour”, the gala day in Wauchope on Saturday 21 February coincided with the rebranding of its liquor store.
The Co-op started life as a dairy co-operative and diversified into a number of businesses.
Like many, it has not been immune to changes in market conditions and competition.
At its December AGM, new interim CEO Matthew Lumsden outlined ways of taking the Coop forward and delivering more value to its members and the broader community.
“The Hastings Co-op has been a cornerstone of the Hastings region since 1916,” he told News Of The Area.
“I look forward to partnering with the board, members, and the wider community to strengthen and renew the Co-op’s vital role in this remarkable part of the world.”
Communication and engagement are high on his agenda along with investing in the business and community.
There has been a rule change to ensure member details are accurate, and there are plans to
bring back a simplified Active Member vote as soon as possible.
The restructure of the Co-op has led to a shift in focus.
It now has two Ampol service stations, Cedar Service station in Wauchope - where Saturday’s event was held - and one in the Port Macquarie industrial area.
There is also the bulk fuel operation located next to Bago Tavern in Wauchope, which supplies fuel to numerous dairies, agri-businesses and other end users.
The bottle shop attached to the service station in Wauchope has been rebranded to Local Liquor and the Redspot car hire service at the Port Macquarie Airport will be retained.
On Friday, 20 February, a new business “The Red Door on Cameron” opened in premises owned by the Co-op.
Proprietor Tina Jakonsson intends to breathe life into a space that has been empty for several years.
“I just love new and preloved homeware and furniture,” she told NOTA.
Tina was also excited to find original sawn floorboards under old floor coverings during the shop’s renovation.
The Co-op currently employs 35 local people and has in excess of 10,000 members.
Further details can be found on the Co-op’s website hastingscoop.com.au.
q Robert Dwyer MP, Hastings Co-op Chair Louise Eyres and Interim CEO Matthew Lumsden.
q Local artisans Kev Conroy and Danny Mitchell.
q Member for Lyne Alison Penfold with Interim CEO Matthew Lumsden.
Council notes actions on 18-storey proposal
A MAYORAL Minute noting actions taken by Port Macquarie Hastings Council regarding a proposed 18-storey development was carried unanimously by Councillors at last Thursday’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
The mixed-use proposal at 29 Park Street comprises 210 dwellings including 35 affordable dwellings, and an entertainment and commercial precinct.
The project has been declared a State Significant Development proposal by NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.
The declaration was made after consideration by the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) of an expression of interest for the location made by the proponent to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).
The Mayoral Minute was put forward by Mayor Adam Roberts and carried nine votes to nil.
It notes a request for a meeting with Minister Scully to discuss the proposal, as well as the infrastructure needed to support it, how
it aligns with other priority projects in our region, and what level of consultation will be conducted with the community.
“Council was formally advised on 19 December 2025 that Minister Scully had declared this proposal a State Significant Development for our region,” Mayor Roberts said.
“We were not consulted prior to that decision being made, nor have we or the community had the opportunity to learn much more about it in the two months since.
“In the interests of transparency, Council publicly announced the NSW Government proposal on 15 January 2026, resulting in significant media and public attention.
“The heightened public interest, and the little information we’ve been provided since, is what has ultimately led to my motion being put to the chamber today.”
The pathway approval for this State Significant Development, any future Development Application and
associated
DPHI, with the Minister acting as the consent authority.
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of the top ten donors in the state.
The 64-year-old has been donating for more than 40 years.
A celebration was held at Lifeblood’s Port Macquarie Donor Centre on Friday as Bruce completed his milestone donation, where he was joined by Benjamin Shuhyta who has made 500 donations, and Member for Port Macquarie Rob Dwyer.
Bruce has O-Positive blood which is always in high demand and used to treat severe anaemia, certain cancers, as well as blood loss due to surgery, childbirth or trauma.
Every fortnight he makes a trip to the Donor Centre, a journey that began after a dare from his Aunty Mary.
My Aunty Mary told me she had done 70 donations, and that I would never catch her," Bruce said.
“Smart lady that one; the challenge was accepted.
“She is now 85 and had to stop donating a long time ago, but if not for her, and having met people along the way who regularly needed blood transfusions, I would not have reached this milestone.”
A Lifeblood spokesperson told News Of The Area, “We would like to thank Mr de Graaf for his generosity and dedication.
“By becoming a regular blood donor just like Bruce, you will be helping the one in three Australians who will need blood or blood products in their lifetime.
“Blood donation takes just one hour – it’s such a short time spent saving three Australian lives.”
Port Macquarie currently has the capacity for 35 donation appointments per day, which doesn’t meet the supply from donors.
However, a new crop of staff have been trained over the last twelve months, allowing for an extra 100 appointments per week commencing in March.
To donate blood call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood. com.au.
The site is currently zoned E2 Commercial Centre with a maximum building height of 16–19 metres.
An 18-storey building,
with an approximate height of 55–60 metres high, would require a concurrent rezoning to amend existing height controls under the
rezoning request will be lodged directly with the
Local Environmental Plan. Community consultation is then expected to occur should a DA be lodged.
q The project has been declared a State Significant Development proposal. Photo: Council.
q Bruce de Graaf and Port Macquarie MP Rob Dwyer.
Nationals urged to ‘come clean’ over gun reform
Shadow Minister Anthony Roberts (Liberals), which suggested that the Coalition intends to move amendments to the firearms reforms.
The reforms passed by
in partnership with the Commonwealth.
Ms Catley said the Coalition must be upfront about exactly which reforms they wish to amend.
firearms laws have many loopholes and unintended consequences,” he said.
“For example, shortening the maximum licence period from five years to two years
Government actually finishes writing them.”
Mr Singh says firearms owners across regional NSW, as well as the small businesses and clubs that
Numbers up at CSU’s Port campus
start of its academic year with the university seeing strong growth across key student cohorts.
This week marked the
The most popular courses are health-related. They are nursing, medical radiation science, paramedicine,
occupational therapy and physiotherapy.
University-wide, undergraduate enrolments (6,199) have also risen by more than 200 students compared to 2025, and postgraduate enrolments are at 2,182.
First Nations enrolments (452 university-wide, with 57 on the Port Macquarie campus) have grown by more than 100 students, reinforcing the University’s commitment to widening participation and supporting educational access for all Australians.
University-wide there are 337 international students (33 more than 2025), with 64 on the Port Macquarie campus.
Charles Sturt ViceChancellor Professor Renée Leon said the growth areas were a reflection of the University’s nation-leading graduate employment outcomes.
Student s know that
Charles Sturt is the number one public university in Australia for undergraduate employment, which is why they want to study with us,” Professor Leon said.
“Our students enjoy a supportive learning environment and industryaligned courses, which creates graduates who are highly skilled and highly sought-after.”
Professor Leon said the University remained committed to its mission of educating the next generation of professionals for regional communities.
“The expertise which regional towns, cities and communities are crying out for aligns with our most popular courses for new students in 2026, including nursing, teaching, social work and paramedicine.”
Students were officially welcomed to the Port Macquarie campus on Tuesday.
Other orientation activities will wrap up today, Friday 27 February.
Restoration work for Kindee Bridge
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT Macquarie-Hastings
Council (PHMC) will strengthen the ageing Kindee Bridge, restoring it to a 10-tonne load limit and extending its operational life by an estimated 10 to 20 years.
Community members received the update at a recent meeting attended by Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold, Mayor of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Adam Roberts, and Council’s Director of Community Infrastructure Ben Wood.
“This bridge has served this community for close to a century,” Mr Kemp said.
“But at nearly 90-yearsold and with a 3.5-tonne load limit in place, we need to start serious conversations about its long-term future.”
Mr Kemp acknowledged that population and traffic data have historically placed the bridge lower on the priority list compared to other regional infrastructure projects.
“Councils are juggling enormous infrastructure pressures, particularly across rural and regional areas,” he said.
“But this community has waited its turn.”
Council will strengthen the footings and maintain the structure to return it to its previous 10-tonne capacity.
“The strengthening works gives PMHC a 10 to 20-year window to plan properly and secure funding,” Mr Kemp said.
Member for Lyne Alison Penfold said the three tiers of government will be working together to advocate for the funds needed to replace the bridge.
“We listened to the frustrations of locals and the need for clarity and transparency [about] maintenance and upgrade
planning,” she said.
“It connects families, supports local businesses, gets kids to school and ensures emergency services
can respond when they are needed most.
“For communities like Kindee, this infrastructure is essential.”
PMHC ranks the bridge second on its infrastructure priority list behind Wrights Road/Lake Road.
THE PORT Macquarie campus of Charles Sturt University has welcomed 721 newly enrolled students for
Orientation Week. Of those, 705 will study on-campus.
q Some of the 700-plus new students checking out the campus and facilities at CSU Port Macquarie. Photos: supplied by CSU.
q Local residents with representatives of all tiers of government at Kindee Bridge on 17 February. Photo: Alison Penfold MP.
CWA’s Land Cookery celebrates 75 years
By Pauline CAIN
Ahead of the CWA state conference in Forster in May, the Wauchope branch hosted
the Mid North Coast Group’s Land Cookery and Friendship Day at Wauchope RSL Club on Thursday 19 February.
It was attended by 52 members from 11 branches, spanning Gloucester in the south to Nambucca Valley in the north.
Land Cookery Officer Lexie Burton and her team of helpers, were kept busy with 111 entries needing to be organised for judging.
The competition is run by the Land Cookery Committee of the CWA with judging progressing from branch to group and then to state level.
Ellice Schrader, former State Chair of Land Cookery, was the official judge in the Wauchope group stage.
Particular mention was made of the flavour of the coffee sponges.
Ms Schrader said that they were better than any she had tasted in recent competition
The Coconut Loaf and the Chocolate Cake were the most popular entries.
“It will be really interesting to see what wins at state level in the Surprise Cake section because we’ve allowed competitors to use different shapes, flavours and colours,” said Ms Schrader.
“The Coconut Loaf looks deceptively simple but it needs to be left in the oven for another 10 minutes when you think it is cooked.”
The competition includes
Blooming Portraits at Museum in March
By Pauline CAIN
BLOOMING Portraits is a series
of free art workshops, guided by art tutor Vivianne Hazenveld, to be held at Port Macquarie Museum during the NSW Seniors Festival in March.
Using stories and portrait photos from local history, seniors will be inspired to create mixed media collages.
"I’m thrilled to be hosting these sessions and feel they're the perfect way to blend local
history with a fun, mixed-media approach to making art,” Ms Hazenveld said.
“With a range of portraits, materials, and styles from which to choose, you can follow my gentle guidance or 'go rogue' to create something entirely your own in a warm, welcoming atmosphere."
No art experience is necessary and all materials and light refreshments will be provided.
Workshops will be held
Monday 2 March from 1pm3.30pm; Tuesday 3 March 11am-1.30pm; and Sunday 8 March 11am-1.30pm.
You may attend a single workshop or multiple sessions to explore different portraits or styles.
An exhibition of the created works and a celebration will be held on Saturday 14 March from 2pm-3.30pm.
The workshops are supported by a NSW Seniors Festival Grant from the NSW
Government.
Free entry to Port Macquarie Museum will be available throughout this year's Seniors Festival from 2 to 14 March.
Port Macquarie Museum is fully accessible and conveniently located at 22 Clarence Street.
More information via phone: 6583 1108 or email: portmuseum@gmail.com.
Visit the Port Macquarie Museum website for more information.
everyone from the competent cook to the less experienced.
Members were keen to hear tips about relishes and pickles.
“They need to be made months ahead to get that smooth flavour.”
The state conference will feature the regular fruit, chocolate and butter cakes as well as recipes celebrating its 75 years.
Set and suggested recipes will be included, along with the favourite recipes of committee members.
More information about the Land Cookery schedule and recipes is available online at: cwaofnsw.org.au/ Web/Web/Committees/TheLand-Cookery.
LAND Cookery, a Country Women’s Association competition, is celebrating its 75th year.
q CWA members at the Mid North Coast Group Land Cookery competition: (l-r) Joy Pengilly, Rhonda Merchant, Lexie Burton, Denise Hawdon, Barbara Reichert and judge Ellice Schrader. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Art tutor Vivianne Hazenveld. Photo: Re-imagine Images.
Walking for a world without type 1 diabetes
COMMUNITY members from across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region will come together on 8 March to fundraise for research into type 1 diabetes (T1D).
The fundraising walk is organised by Breakthrough T1D (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), a leading supporter of global research into the condition.
The local event is part of the organisation’s annual One Walk campaign, which brings around one million people together worldwide to unite in the fight against T1D, a lifelong autoimmune condition impacting over 145,000 Australians.
Participants fundraise for their 'special some1', a loved one affected by T1D, and then come together to celebrate their efforts at in-person events around Australia.
On Sunday, 8 March, One Walk supporters from Port Macquarie will gather at Westport Park at 8am for a morning of family fun, fundraising, walking, and connecting with
community members who live with T1D.
Funds raised at the event will go towards the national One Walk target of $1.1 million.
Tamara Aitchison, National Manager Community Fundraising at Breakthrough T1D Australia, said, "Type 1 diabetes doesn't stop for anything or anyone - it is 24/7.
“Breakthrough T1D wants to change that.
“We are committed to creating a world without this condition through funding the best and brightest researchers working to accelerate lifechanging breakthroughs to improve lives and
ultimately cure T1D.
“One Walk has been helping make these breakthroughs possible for many years now, with our amazing community raising funds for the most promising research.
“The day is also a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, connect, feel supported and importantly, have fun.”
This year’s One Walk could help support research ranging from the early detection of T1D to finding ways to help the body produce its own insulin once more.
Visit walk. BreakthroughT1D.org.au to sign up.
Big welcome for visiting surfers
By Bill HARROW
A GROUP is being formed to explore the possibility of turning the stretch of coastline from Port Macquarie Breakwall to the end of Lighthouse Beach into a World Surfing Reserve.
Donna Liver, Secretary of the Port Macquarie Surfing Museum, shared the news on Sunday 22 February, during the Port Macquarie stopover of the East Coast Activation Tour
Visitors were greeted by a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony conducted by Biripi elder Uncle Bill on the site of the proposed Port Macquarie
Surfing Museum.
“I thought this was a fitting way of linking travelling people from all over the world to Port Macquarie in the traditional Indigenous way,” Alan Jeffrey, President of Port Macquarie Surfing Museum told News Of The Area.
The East Coast Activation Tour commenced on the Gold Coast on 20 February, with stops at Lennox Head, Angourie, Crescent Head, Port Macquarie. Merewether, Norah Head, Manly and Bondi, before finishing at Manly-Freshwater on Tuesday.
The tour was made up of delegates from Peru, Chile,
Mexico, Brazil, Spain, USA, Bali, Easter Island, Costa Rica and Australia.
Delegates included Roberto Araki, six-time Chilean National Champion; Catalina Zariquiey, ISA World Junior Championships Under 16 girls runner-up; and Nik Strong-Cvetich, CEO Save the Waves Coalition.
Andrew McKinnon, president of Gold Coast World Surfing Reserve, is host of the 2026 World Surfing Conservation Conference. He explained that the common goal of the East Coast Activation Tour was protecting surfing ecosystems and managing amenities for future generations.
WHAT’S ON @ GLASSHOUSE
q A previous One Walk event.
q Museum representatives with Deputy Mayor Nik Lipovac and local and international surfers.
Girl Guides unite for Thinking Day
By Rachael THORPE
BRUCE Porter Reserve in Laurieton sprung to life on Sunday 22 February as Girl Guides from Port Macquarie, Forster, Wauchope and Camden Haven came together to celebrate the centenary of Thinking Day.
Joined by family members and volunteers, the worldwide event involved more
than ten million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
First observed in 1926 the day was selected as it commemorates the birthdays of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement, and Lady Olave Baden-Powell, his wife and world chief guide.
Thirteen-year-old Guide Patrol leader Ashley Baxter from King Creek has been
involved in guides since she was seven.
“I love going to Guides because I get to make new friends, as well as learning leadership and community skills,” she said.
With 40 girls attending, a mix of current guides and those interested in joining, the 30 volunteers and parents present were kept busy supervising canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and tie dying scarves.
An orienteering activity was also provided by Hastings Orienteering Group.
After a hiatus of six months due to a lack of volunteers, Camden Haven Girl Guides is back up and running with District Manager Kim Woodhouse telling News Of The Area, “I’m 62 and I started in Guides when I was seven.
“It has taken me to so many different places around the world.
“I’ve met and made countless friends, and locally
I’ve helped create a safe space for girls and women to do the activities they love.
“For me, guiding is a way of life and it has taught me
skills that I will have forever.”
The day finished in a group circle with a reflection, where the guides were encouraged to think about
New minimum age for e-bike usage
A MINIMUM age to ride an e-bike is being introduced in NSW.
Under current NSW Road Rules, a child of any age can ride an e-bike and bicycle riders of any age can carry passengers if the bike’s design allows.
A review led by Transport for NSW will recommend a legal minimum age between 12 and 16 for riding an e-bike in NSW, while also considering whether children and teenagers have the skills, maturity and awareness of potential dangers required to safely carry passengers.
“As part of this review there will be consultation with experts in child development and road safety, including the NSW Office for Youth and Young People, and will listen directly to parents and young people before making a final decision on the appropriate age threshold,”
the NSW Government said in a statement.
“Advice and findings will be provided to the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads by June, with the NSW Government to make a final decision on an age limit and passengers.”
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said, "Police see firsthand the consequences when powerful e-bikes are misused.
"By introducing sensible age settings and cracking down on illegal, high-powered bikes, we are helping police prevent dangerous behaviour before more people are seriously hurt.”
NSW to adopt EU Safety Standard
NSW will also adopt the European safety standard (EN15194) in March this year to ensure e-bikes operate like
bicycles, and not motorbikes.
Under this standard, e-bikes must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and power assistance must cut out at 25km/h.
No power assistance is delivered at all after 6km/h if a rider is not pedalling the bike.
The standard also includes strict battery, electrical and fire-safety requirements, as well as anti-tampering protections to prevent power and speed limits being altered.
A three-year transition period will apply.
From 1 March 2029, only e-bikes meeting the European standard will be road legal in NSW.
After a period of consultation, retailers will be required to clearly specify whether a bike meets the EU standard and is therefore road legal in NSW.
the importance of global friendship and community, while remembering that Guiding is about fun and adventure.
Minister for Transport
John Graham said, “The adoption of the EU standard is part of building a safe and clear framework of rules
around this popular form of transport.
“The community has spoken against souped-up motorbikes masquerading as
e-bike and this new standard makes clear that e-bikes must perform like bicycles not motorbikes.”
q Girl Guides Alexia Herr, Danielle Steele and Ashley Baxter.
q Celebrating Thinking Day at Bruce Porter Reserve.
q A review led by Transport for NSW will recommend a legal minimum age between 12 and 16 for riding an e-bike in NSW. Photo: NSW Gov.
Taking Banjo’s story across regional NSW
By Pauline CAIN
THE crew from Got Ya Back Productions is weaving their way through Banjo Paterson country this week, as they begin a NSW run of their theatrical production, “BANJO”.
The musical intertwines the life of Banjo Paterson through arrangements of Coldplay’s greatest hits, contemporary dance and the iconic poet’s own verse.
“This unique musical delivers an incredibly moving experience,” said former NSW Arts Minister, Ben Franklin.
From his hardships in rural Australia, his time as a writer and lawyer in Sydney, and his return to the country, BANJO follows Paterson’s story while regaling audiences with tales of Australia in the 1880s.
Early moments of this production were seen in 2018 by Port Macquarie Art Walk patrons under the fig tree on Town Green.
The production then premiered on stage at The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie in 2018, followed by regional NSW tours in 2019 and again in 2023.
Based in Port Macquarie, Got Ya Back Productions was established by Steph and Tim Maddren, who have been creating theatre and film projects on the Mid North
Coast for the past decade.
“Right now, we’re down in the Riverina and there is so much love and respect for the show,” Tim said.
“It's amazing to feel so far from our home-base, yet they are grasping on to the show as if it was their own.
“Wagga Civic Centre is an almost 500-seat theatre and we will be close to selling out
down here this weekend.”
BANJO hits the stage this week in Albury, Leeton and Cowra before returning to the Mid North Coast.
“We have been making adjustments slowly over the years, and we're taking the show to better places,” Tim said.
“We're so proud of it.”
Mid North Coast
audiences will have the opportunity to see the production at the Bandbox Theatre in Kempsey on 5 March, at the Manning Entertainment Centre in Taree on 6 March, at the Jetty Theatre in Coffs Harbour on 7 March, at the Saraton Theatre in Grafton on 8 March and later in the tour at the Bowraville Theatre on 29
March. The show retains significant links to the region, with Production Manager Hayley Purkis and music arranger Mat Brooker both from Port Macquarie.
and dancer
complete the creative team.
A plan for creativity in the regions
ARTS Mid North Coast
(AMNC) has welcomed the NSW Government’s launch of “Heartland: A Plan for Regional NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries 2026–2035”, backed by a $5.2 million investment aimed at strengthening arts, culture and creative industries across regional NSW.
AMNC is the Regional Arts Development Organisation (RADO) and peak body for arts and creative industries across the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Nambucca Valley, Kempsey, Port MacquarieHastings and Mid Coast LGAs.
The “Heartland” plan identifies six strategic priorities designed to support growth, drive innovation and embed inclusion, and to address the unique opportunities and challenges faced by regional NSW:
• Champion regional First Nations arts and culture
• Strengthen regional partnerships and networks
• Unlock regional creative spaces
• Open doors to regional creative careers
• Showcase regional storytelling and creative innovation
• Amplify statewide arts and cultural tourism
According to Arts Mid North Coast, the plan opens new opportunities for collaboration through funding streams such as the Regional NSW Strategic Partnerships Program, which supports co-investment between councils, cultural organisations and community partners.
It also includes establishing a RADO Sustainability Fund to restore funding levels and support the long-term stability of the RADO network.
Arts Mid North Coast
Executive Director Olivia Parker was part of the Regional Plan Working Group that worked alongside Create NSW to help shape the strategy.
“We are pleased to see the NSW Government’s commitment to a dedicated strategy and funding for regional arts - a significant milestone,” said Ms Parker.
“The recognition of RADOs, such as Arts Mid North Coast, as essential to the regional arts ecosystem is especially encouraging.
“The work we do in supporting artists, delivering programs, and fostering partnerships will be key to achieving the goals of this plan.”
Arts Mid North Coast sees this as a valuable opportunity to collaborate with Local Government, health, education, tourism, business and community sectors
across the region.
“Extensive community consultation emphasised the important role of arts and culture in bringing people together, keeping young
people in our communities and supporting community wellbeing,” said Ms Parker.
“We also know that the
Arts are a key economic driver, and by strengthening
Director Nicholas Christo
Bejae Ingate
strategic partnerships, we can collectively enhance and expand cultural activity on the Mid North Coast.”
q Contemporary dancers Bejae Ingate and Steph Maddren. Photo: supplied.
q Tim Maddren and Mat Brooker tell the story of ‘The Man From Snowy River'. Photo: supplied
q Warren Mason performing at Tin Camp Studio at Lightning Ridge. Photo: Outback Outloud Rainy King.
Hastings stargazers prepare for incoming blood moon
ON a warm late summer evening, with cicadas humming and the day’s heat still in the air, something remarkable will unfold above Australia.
On Tuesday night, 3 March, the Moon will begin to change.
Slowly. Quietly. And then it will turn red.
This will be a total lunar eclipse - a blood moon.
For just under an hour, the familiar silver Moon will glow copper and crimson, hanging in the eastern to south-eastern sky like a burning ember.
From Perth’s beaches to Hobart’s waterfront and across inland New South Wales, the whole country will be able to step outside and witness the same transformed Moon.
In New South Wales, the partial eclipse begins at 8:50pm.
A dark curve appears on one edge, as though a careful bite has been taken.
The shadow grows steadily with totality at 10:33pm and the colour reaches its richest glow.
It’s all over by 11pm.
The Mid North Coast Astronomy group led by astronomer Dave Reneke will be at Rocks Ferry Reserve in Wauchope for a free public viewing.
Dave said the Hastings region is perfectly placed to enjoy the spectacle.
“With open skies, coastal horizons and less glare than the big cities, viewing conditions are ideal,” he said.
So, what causes the red light?
“A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a long shadow into space,” Dave said.
“The Moon passes into that shadow, yet it does not vanish.
“Sunlight bends as it travels through Earth’s atmosphere.
“Blue light scatters away, while red and orange light continue on, curving into the shadow and softly lighting the Moon.
“In effect, every sunrise and sunset around the world is projected onto the lunar surface at once.”
The exact colour depends on conditions in our atmosphere.
After major bushfires or volcanic eruptions, the Moon can look darker and deeper
red.
In clearer years it may glow orange or copper.
“Each eclipse has its own character,” Dave said.
For ancient cultures, a red Moon demanded explanation.
“Many believed something was attacking it,” Dave said.
“Others saw it as a warning or a sign of change.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sky traditions link the Moon to life cycles and powerful relationships between Earth and sky.
“An eclipse could represent a meeting of the Sun and Moon - a moment of meaning and respect.”
While modern science has explained the phenomenon, and we can predict the event to the minute, the sense of awe remains.
“The Moon is our constant companion,” Dave said.
“When it changes colour, even briefly, the world feels different.”
To view the eclipse on Tuesday, Dave says no specialist equipment or telescope is required.
“Simply face east to
Mid North Coast fishing update
By Kate SHELTON
IT is a tough week for our local fishing family following the news that Ned Kelly’s Bait n Tackle in Port Macquarie was broken into last weekend.
The intruder caused significant damage to the shop fittings and walked away with a fair amount of stock.
Bryce has poured incredible time and effort into this business, and a hit like this is devastating for any small operator. Let’s get together as a fishing community and support him by dropping by the shop to gear up for your next trip.
For Port Macquarie anglers, luderick numbers continue to improve, with the south breakwall proving well worth a visit. Both cabbage and artificial weed are working effectively at the moment.
You can also find a few nice bream on offer, particularly for those willing to fish the walls after dark.
Flathead action has also been terrific lately, with good numbers of fish being taken on both lures and baits around Rawdon Island and within the lower sections of the Maria River.
Whiting have remained consistent around Blackmans Point and in Limeburners your best bet would be to use yabbies for bait.
For the mulloway enthusiasts, the upcoming full moon should see a rise in fish caught around the lower reaches of the river.
On the crabbing front, the Hastings remains alive with plenty of muddies.
Offshore reports continue to be dominated by mackerel action in Plomer
Bay and the waters further north. Unfortunately, sharks remain a significant issue, particularly in the Plomer Bay area.
Further out, strong currents have created challenging conditions for those attempting to chase bottom fish off the deeper reefs.
Further south on the beaches, there are some terrific bream around, with both North Haven and Rainbow Beach producing well during early morning and evening sessions. Whiting have also been firstclass, with beach worms and pipis doing the trick for both species.
Tailor numbers are certainly picking up as we progress into autumn and the water clarity slowly improves, with pilchards, lures, and even whitebait
proving effective.
While mulloway remains elusive, there have been reports of a few nice fish taken from South Beach near Diamond Head. Off the rocks, tailor and bream have both been hot this week.
In the washes, luderick and drummer numbers have been well above average.
On the land-based game scene, a few longtail tuna have been encountered both north and south, though the local enthusiasts are keeping the specific details of these catches closely guarded.
In the Macleay River region, conditions have been favourable this week with light winds and beautiful sunny days.
On the pelagic front, Grassy Head continues to hold a few spotted and Spanish mackerel.
However, sharks have
Port debut for orchestra
By Bill HARROW
“FIRST Light” refers to music illuminated by the sunrise and it is about to be performed in Port Macquarie by principal musicians of the Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra.
They are part of the larger Sydney based orchestra of 40 to 50 Australian musicians, with occasional guest performers from Europe.
The orchestra was formed in 2013 and performed last Easter at the Sydney Opera House.
It will also perform at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in July.
Given the size of the orchestra, smaller groups of principals can take their performances to regional centres.
“We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing
south-east with a clear view of the sky.
“Arrive early and watch the shadow grow. Binoculars will reveal subtle
and the curved edge of Earth’s shadow.
“Photographers should use a tripod, as the Moon will be dimmer than usual.”
been a major problem here as well, with a very high "tax" rate on hooked fish.
This is a classic example of learned behaviour, as the
sharks now know an easy meal is available once a tethered fish nears a boat, don't expect this issue to disappear anytime soon.
our First Light program to Port Macquarie’s beautiful Glasshouse Theatre for the first time,” said Co-Artistic Director and Principal Clarinet Nicole van Bruggen.
“We’ve heard wonderful things about the venue, and we can’t wait to share our music with local audiences, feel their energy in the room, and be part of the region’s vibrant musical community for the evening.”
Ms van Bruggen explained that performances are faithful to the “romantic” era of the 19th Century.
Before then, music was just performed for royalty and upper-class wealthy people in castles or large homes.
This changed when composers like Mozart started writing romantic and passionate pieces that became available to average
people in venues such as halls and theatres.
To keep the music authentic, much research is
required and some stringed instruments date back a century. Where historic instruments are not available, meticulously designed reproductions are used.
The clarinet Ms van Bruggen plays was built by a craftsman in Paris using
X-rays of a museum piece from the Mozart era. There is only one performance of “First Light” at the Glasshouse, on Friday 6 March starting at 7.00pm.
shading
q On Tuesday night, 3 March, the Moon will begin to change.
q Ben Chetcuti shows off a healthy juvenile Amberjack caught right in the Hastings River, a great reminder that you never know what’s swimming in our local systems.
q The Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra. Photo: Robert Catto.
Model rail group steaming ahead
By Bill HARROW
THE recent closure of Timbertown has led to confusion over the future of the model railway at Yippin Creek.
Hastings Valley Miniature Railway Society, which was founded in 2003, has been running trains at the site - for fun - since 2012.
There are two circuits of track, with signal lights, a station platform and bridge.
The society is reassuring the public that its trains will continue to run on time on the second Saturday of each month, starting at 10am
and ending at 2pm.
The track and park are maintained by the club with most trains owned by individual members.
Miniature steam trains have been built in Australia for more than 100 years, with their operation controlled by the Australian Association of Live Steamers.
It sets the extensive standards and codes of practice governing member clubs.
The Yippin Creek Railway has an extensive history of support from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, local businesses
and the Lions Club. Its sole purpose is to bring together generations of families and friends for the enjoyment of “all things railway”.
Wauchope Lions provide a BBQ lunch on the day the trains run.
The Yippin Creek Reserve also has amenities including picnic tables.
The voluntary notfor-profit association uses proceeds to maintain the railway while funds raised by the BBQ go to charities supported by Lions.
For more information, visit the Wauchope-Yippin Creek Railway website.
$1 million for biocontrol research
THE NSW Government has granted $1 million to Australia’s national science agency the CSIRO to carry out biocontrol research to help control invasive weeds.
Biocontrol reduces weeds by deploying natural biological agents, such as fungi or insects, and is considered increasingly important as an environment-friendly, selfsustaining and cost-effective weed-management tool.
Invasive weeds cost Australian agriculture industries close to $4.9 billion each year through crop loss and weed-management costs.
On average, biocontrol returns $23 in benefits
for every $1 invested and significantly reduces reliance on herbicides.
This $1 million investment by the NSW Environmental Trust for the 2025-26 financial year will support new research initiatives led by the CSIRO in partnership with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
The initiatives will target 11 weeds across diverse ecosystems from arid lands to moist forests.
For example, mass-rearing and releasing a cochineal insect to tackle Hudson pear, while a leaf-smut fungus will
manage wandering trad –each tailored to the specific environment and species.
The next steps to manage weeds are to ensure approved biocontrol agents are easy and safe for the community to use.
Following biocontrol agent releases, monitoring programs will evaluate their impacts on weeds and the recovery of native ecosystems, and findings will be shared through a statewide network.
The project includes a co-designed Aboriginal Engagement Plan ensuring Traditional Custodian knowledge and values guide biocontrol efforts and strengthen outcomes on Country.
The Trust has already invested $3.4 million to date.
q Dr Ben Gooden, CSIRO research scientist, surrounded by fleabane weed. Image GRDC
It’s duck racing season
PORT Macquarie Lions will hold its annual Charity Duck Race on Easter Sunday, 5 April, a unique and beloved community spectacle.
“As always, the public and business communities of Port Macquarie have been generous in their support of this year’s beneficiaries – Endeavour Clubhouse, Hastings Education Fund
SUNDAY 5 APRIL, from 10.30am
and Marine Rescue,” a spokesperson for Lions told NOTA.
Final ticket sales will commence around 10.00am, with the big race scheduled
around 11.45am.
“Public tickets are already on sale, but you can grab last minute Lucky Duck tickets for $5 each, on Saturday 4 April, from either Settlement
City or Port Central,” the spokesperson said.
“Tickets will also be available on Race Day, unless sold out before - don’t leave it too late!”
For Duck Race novices, each ticket number
Previous projects have reduced the impacts of serious environmental weeds such as the coastal invader sea spurge, helping native species to recover.
Dr Ben Gooden, CSIRO Senior Research Scientist said, "This project unites cuttingedge science and ecological knowledge to tackle one of our most persistent environmental challenges – restoring landscapes impacted by invasive weeds.
"Biocontrol offers a sustainable, long-term solution to managing invasive weeds, helping native ecosystems recover and thrive without the need for repeated chemical intervention.
"Successful biocontrol reduces the burden on land managers, improves biodiversity, and supports more resilient landscapes for future generations."
corresponds to one of the 2,000 plastic ducks in the race. First prize is $600.
You may purchase on race day, or for tickets or information, contact John on 0420 435 457.
q The track and park are maintained by club members.
q Sorting ducks for the big race.
q The ducks hit the water.
By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP
WITH the prospect of paying at least $1 million for a home in many of Australia's capital cities, buyers are once again looking to escape to the country.
The regional property market surged in the three months to January, outpacing the capitals, according to figures from data firm Cotality released on Wednesday.
Dwelling values rose 3.2 percent for the quarter in regional areas, compared to 2.1 percent in the combined capitals.
Competitive market conditions in the cities, poor housing affordability and a boost in internal migration sent buyers packing for the country long after COVID-19 lockdowns sparked the initial migration trend.
"With capital city prices still near record highs and
stock levels tight, many households are once again looking to regional Australia for greater value and livability," the firm's head of research Gerard Burg said.
"We're seeing momentum build across a wide range of regional markets, from inland hubs to coastal centres and mining-adjacent regions.
"This reflects a renewed movement of people and capital into areas where buyers' budgets stretch further and competition for available homes is strong."
Sydney's median home value sat at $1.23 million in January, followed by Brisbane at $1.02 million, with Perth and Adelaide tipping over $900,000, according to a PropTrack report released on 2 February.
Compared to those cities' prices, many of the fastest-growing regions can offer only modest housing affordability relief, if any.
Queensland's Sunshine Coast had a median value of more than $1.2 million in January, with weekly rents at $832, Cotality's data showed.
Geelong, a Victorian port city and hotspot for Melbourne escapees, had a median value of $771,298, with rents at $558.
The NSW Hunter region has long been one of the fastest-growing areas in Australia, with a median of $956,142 and rents at $698 in Newcastle-Maitland.
The market report showed Wagga Wagga, in southern NSW, experienced the highest growth in value at 8.1 percent for the quarter.
The median value in the regional city was $665,062 in January.
Regional Western Australia had the strongest growth among the states, with values rising 6.1 percent, up from 4.9 percent.
Albany, a coastal city
GIRL GUIDES
GIRL Guides has a proud tradition of providing fun activities, skills development and advocacy for young women and girls on the Mid North Coast.
To keep providing
this valuable service, the organisation is currently seeking more volunteers in Camden Haven.
Volunteering with Girl Guides isn’t simply about supervising activities or
on the state's southern tip, experienced a value hike of 7.7 percent, with a median value of $783,389.
Queensland and South Australia's markets also grew, while regional NSW and Victoria only shifted slightly.
Small local market declines were recorded
in the Bowral, Mittagong and Bateman's Bay regions in southern NSW, and in Warrnambool on Victoria's Great Ocean Road.
A renewed focus on the regions is not good news for all locals, as low rental vacancy rates are met with rapidly increasing rents.
1.6 percent, compared to 1.4 percent.
Rents outside the cities have risen by almost 42 percent in the past five years, well ahead of wage growth at 17.5 percent.
helping run weekly meetings.
It’s about shaping a space where girls feel confident to speak up, try new things, and discover who they are.
It’s about modelling the qualities of resilience,
kindness, and curiosity.
Girl Guides has always been a place where girls learn by doing.
They pitch tents, build friendships, solve problems, and learn leadership in ways
that classrooms can’t always offer.
But none of that happens without adults willing to stand beside them.
When volunteer numbers drop, opportunities shrink.
Camps get cancelled.
Programs get scaled back. The waiting list grows longer.
And that’s a loss not just for the girls, but for the region itself.
What many people don’t realise is that volunteering with Girl Guides is flexible, supported, and genuinely rewarding.
You don’t need special skills - just a willingness to
show up.
Whether you can give an hour a week or help occasionally at events, every contribution strengthens the unit and expands what the girls can experience.
The Camden Haven Girl Guides meet on Thursdays. For term 1 2026, the meeting runs from 5:307:30pm, welcoming girls between seven and 17 years old.
If you would like to know more, contact District Manager Kim Woodhouse on 0427645145 or email CamdenHavenDM@ girlguises-nswactnt.org.au.
Regional rent growth was slightly above the capitals at
q Buyers are once again looking to escape to the regions in search of a better value and quality of life. Photo: PMHC.
q The Camden Haven Girl Guides need more volunteers to run their valuable programs.
THE NSW Government has released a new guide to support councils to undertake land audits to identify vacant operational land that could be used to deliver affordable housing projects.
The “Council Led Affordable Housing on Operational Land Guide” released by the Office of Local Government provides step-
by-step guidance for councils on identifying and managing affordable housing sites utilising operational land –from planning through to construction and delivery.
“A major barrier to building more affordable housing is the high cost of acquiring well-located land,” the NSW Government said in a statement.
“Council owned sites such as former depots or unused facilities that are well serviced and close to public transport can be ideal locations for affordable housing to support low-income households.”
The guide provides detail on delivery options available to councils to release and manage operational land for affordable housing and
how councils can form partnerships with entities such as government agencies and housing providers to maximise the impact of affordable housing.
It also includes case studies showcasing successful affordable housing projects led by councils to meet the needs of their communities.
For example, Shoalhaven City Council transformed surplus council land in
Bomaderry into 39 affordable housing units, while Lismore City Council is partnering with Landcom, Homes NSW and a community housing provider to construct 56 new affordable housing units.
The NSW Government has set five-year housing completion targets for 43 local government areas in Sydney, the IllawarraShoalhaven, the Lower Hunter and Central Coast, and a single housing target for regional NSW.
Childcare workers on 'ick' alert after abuse
By Robyn WUTH, AAP
AUSTRALIA’S childcare workers are on "ick" alert as they scramble to rebuild public trust after the sector was engulfed in sexual abuse scandals and widespread safety concerns.
A Senate inquiry into the troubled industry moved to Brisbane on Monday as it probes quality and safety in the nation's early childhood education and care system.
It was sparked by calls for reform after a series of highprofile scandals, including allegations of sexual abuse, unnecessary restraints and other failings in the sector.
Councils supported to identify land for affordable housing Council opens grants program
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “All levels of government need to play their part to help address the housing shortage.
“The Minns Labor Government’s land audit has identified several sites that are no longer being used that can deliver thousands of new homes.
“With the support of this new guide, we’re asking councils to do the same.”
scandals
"Nothing is more critical than children's safety," Dr Baxter told the inquiry.
"I have met several times over the last year with every one of our centre directors in every centre across the country... we talk about anything that gives you an ick.
"Anything that gives you a moment of something just not looking right, you will absolutely be supported through that process" of reporting, she said.
The sector has been battling child-safety concerns since it was revealed a Queensland worker sexually abused dozens of girls at childcare centres in one of the worst paedophile cases in the nation's history.
Goodstart Early Learning chief executive Ros Baxter, representing a non-profit group that is the nation's largest operator of childcare centres, said the organisation's staff were urged to report any uncomfortable incidents.
Ashley Paul Griffith was sentenced to life in prison in November 2024 after admitting to more than 300 offences at daycare facilities in Queensland.
He is separately accused of abusing at least two dozen children in NSW and in Italy.
The distressing abuse scandal deepened after a second worker from the Affinity Education Group was charged with more than 70 sex offences in Victoria.
Joshua Dale Brown worked at 24 facilities between 2017 and 2025, including many run by Affinity.
"These are all very serious and troubling matters, and I want to express how profoundly sorry I am that something like this could occur to any child in our care," Affinity chief executive
Glen Hurley told the inquiry.
"It is something that should never have happened.
"We have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of child harm and will dismiss employees found to be in breach of this safeguard.
"On behalf of Affinity, I offer my sincere apology for the incidents that occurred at centres."
Affinity has since conducted a review to address safety concerns and implemented strict new childcare requirements, which have led to a reduction in reported incidents, he said.
CCTV has been installed and incident reporting simplified under a "see something, say something" policy.
"Our full focus is on strengthening safety, quality, and oversight across our
services," Mr Hurley said.
"The early indicators have been reassuringwe've witnessed reduced complaints, breaches, and a more stabilised workforce."
PORT Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) has announced the opening of its Community and Major Events Grants, inviting event organisers, community groups, and creatives to bring their ideas to life and “activate our region with vibrant experiences”.
PMHC is now accepting
applications for this round of Community Grants for the following categories.
Community Projects (up to $7000)
To support community-led projects and programs that strengthen inclusion, participation, connection, resilience and wellbeing.
Creative Community (up to $7000)
To support creative and cultural activities that encourage artistic expression, storytelling, and community engagement through art forms such as visual arts, performance, music, dance, and digital media.
Community Events (up
to $5000)
To support local community groups to deliver inclusive events that foster connection, wellbeing, and participation, including events marking national or global observances.
Micro Grants (up to $2000)
To support unexpected
Affinity childcare centres recorded more than 1,700 regulatory breaches between 2021 and 2024, the inquiry heard.
opportunities for our community organisations to enhance people, places and spaces.
Eligible groups are also encouraged to apply for Major Events Grants of up to $5000.
These are aimed at supporting groups whose event has the potential to bring a significant number
"We treat all of these safety incidents and breaches extremely seriously," Mr Hurley said.
of overnight visitors from outside the region.
Applicants should demonstrate that their event has the potential to develop and maintain an ongoing major events status, can contribute positively to the region’s economy, and can possess the potential for long-term growth and sustainability.
For more information and how to apply, visit the council’s website.
Varroa mite showing resistance to chemical treatments
THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has confirmed the first case of Varroa mite pyrethroid resistance in the state.
Laboratory testing at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute identified a known genetic mutation, L925I, which causes pyrethroid resistance in Varroa mites.
DPIRD Honey Bee Technical Specialist, Elizabeth Frost, said L925I significantly reduces the efficacy of pyrethroid miticides in managing affected mite populations, with just two approved pyrethroid miticide
active ingredients available in Australia - flumethrin and tau-fluvalinate (sold as Bayvarol and Apistan).
“The resistant mites were collected from Northern NSW flumethrin-treated bee colonies where the mid-treatment inspection revealed poor treatment efficacy in the hives and dead colonies,” Ms Frost said.
DPIRD Senior Bee Biosecurity Officer, Rod Bourke, said best practice mite management is now more important than ever for beekeepers managing hives with Varroa.
“Beekeepers can use the Varroa management tool, rotate chemical modes of
action (MOA) and follow the label and permit conditions,” Mr Bourke said.
“Check mite loads two to three weeks after treatments have been added and when removed so you can monitor treatment efficacy and the risk of pyrethroid resistant mites in your apiaries or region.
“If a product does not appear to work, you may need to try the next suitable miticide with a different MOA otherwise mites will harm the colony further.
“Pyrethroid-based miticides remain an important part of integrated pest management for Varroa mite and avoiding
back-to-back treatments with pyrethroids is critical in preserving their effectiveness.”
If beekeepers suspect treatments are failing, they can call the Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244.
NSW DPIRD staff will work with beekeepers to assess the situation and assist in screening mites for resistance, if needed.
Screening has also shown the pyrethroid resistant mites carried endemic viruses already established in Australia with no exotic viruses.
Testing to date indicates that the resistance is unlikely to be associated with a new
q L925I significantly reduces the efficacy of pyrethroid miticides in managing affected mite populations.
Distribution of resistant mites is likely to be isolated to a small area at this stage and bee biosecurity officers
are surveying Varroa mites across NSW to get a better idea of the distribution of resistant mites.
Varroa mite incursion.
q Goodstart Early Learning CEO Dr Ros Baxter says nothing is more critical than children's safety. Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Friday Afternoon Golfers
By Colin EVERINGHAM
FRIDAY 20 FEB 2026
Weather: Very Humid, Overcast and Very Warm 34oC.
Number of Players: 25 playing on the Front 9 holes.
Winner: Peter Casey Nett 31 was on 9 now on 4
2nd: Neil Clancy Nett 35
3rd: Peter Mansfield Nett 35 c\b
4th: Gerry Nagle Nett 36
5th: Dennis McGrath Nett 38 c\b
6th: Mick Hourigan Nett 38
NTP 4th Hole Second Shot: Dennis McGrath
NTP 9th Hole Second Shot: Peter Mansfield
Raffle Winner: Bob Lineham
Special note about the 3rd group off the 1st tee, all went into the left side garden bed. Great start guys.
Bogie Bandits Social Golf
By Colin EVERINGHAM
TUESDAY 17/02/2026
Number of Players – 23
Game Played –Stroke – Monthly Medal
Winner- Ted Ball - Net 68
2 nd Neil Flatters - Net 70
3 rd Luke Ackroyd - Net 72 (On Count Back)
4th Ken Gallie - Net 72 (On Count Back)
5 th Don Jessop - Net 72( On Count Back)
6 th Ian Camejo - Net 73 ( On Count Back)
NTP 4 Ken Gallie
NTP 9 Ray Marsh
NTP 11 Col Hutchings
NTP 15 Ian Camejo
Wauchope Women's Bowling Club
By Julie FRASER
THURSDAY 19/2/26
Port Macquarie Sailing Club
By Jeff WALSH
22-2-26
The jackpot went to Kathy Sweeney who was playing. Well done Kath !
The Final of the Championship Triples winners were Ita Walker, Sue Petterson and Lill Allen defeated Julie Samuelson , Beth Gabriel ( sub) and Glenda Elford . Score was 25/11 .
The Lucky losers were Pat Fletcher Somone Thompson and Faye Paine . Fan of cards lucky winners of the day were Ita Walker ,Sue Petterson and Lil Allen . Thank you to the members who brought in items father Trading table .
There was no Saturday bowls due to heat and Open Gender Pennants being on .
Child safety education
THE NSW Office of Sport is bringing a series of interactive child safety workshops to the Mid North Coast and North Coast in March to support local sporting organisations to keep children safe from harm and abuse in sport.
The workshops will focus on the needs of community sport volunteers, providing practical skills to identify and manage common risks to children in community sport.
The workshops are relevant to committee members, officials and volunteers involved in
community sport with participants learning how to safely manage and deescalate challenging behaviour, apply Child Safe Standards and the role of Member Protection Information Officers.
Mid North Coast workshops will be held at Taree and Port Macquarie from 2–5 March with North Coast workshops held at Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Ballina from 23-26 March.
Office of Sport Deputy
Secretary Adam Berry said, “Sport brings communities together, especially in regional NSW, and we want
to ensure that everyone who participates has a safe and positive experience.
“We all have a role to play in protecting children from harm and abuse in sport and these workshops will be invaluable to helping sporting organisations in this mission.
“We look forward to working with representatives from Northern New South Wales sporting organisations at these workshops.”
For further information visit www.sport. nsw.gov.au/events/ sportintegritytraining.
Swimming North Coast’s team for state finals
By Aiden BURGESS
SWIMMING North Coast is set to compete at this weekend’s Speedo Sprint Series Finals in Sydney.
The event is being held on Saturday, 28 February, at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.
The state titles are for those who placed in the top four at their area heats.
The North Coast’s heats were held at Alstonville and Kempsey on Saturday 31 January.
The results from both venues were merged and
the top four placegetters in each stroke over 50 metres were selected Local members of the team are as follow:
Macksville: Byron Abela, 11, butterfly; Callen Clark, 8, all strokes; Logan Grace, 11, freestyle and butterfly; and Sienna Abela, 13, all strokes.
Woolgoolga: Cooper Anderson, 12, freestyle and backstroke.
Port Macquarie: Flyn Apthorpe, 13, freestyle, butterfly and backstroke; Zarchary Garley, 12, all strokes; Daniel Ivanrakov,
10, all strokes; Scarlett Brook 13, all strokes.
Coffs Harbour: Arthur James, 8, all strokes; Arley Lassau, 8, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke; Harrison May 10, all strokes; Manee Nigro, 8, all strokes; and Halle Timmes,10, freestyle.
Sawtell: Kobi Skeoch, 9, all strokes.
Laurieton: Tayler Cass, 11, freestyle and butterfly.
Bellingen: Ruby Simon,10, butterfly and backstroke.
THE Port Macquarie Sailing Club raced their summer Marathon on Sunday in a beautiful North Easter under sunny skies. The start down river from the clubhouse to the Town Green was against the run in tide. Buoy A was a Port mark just off the Town Green where the Port Macquarie Yacht Club were running their inshore race, then it was mainly running and reaching all the way upriver with the tide the Dennis Bridge (Pacific Highway). Once buoy B, another Port mark, was rounded there, it was a long work back to the finish line at the clubhouse, mostly against the tide, although the last few boats started to get into the first of the run out tide. Jeff Walsh and Kim Williams manned the big safety boat and looked after the downriver end of the fleet, and Steve Bohlsen in the little safety boat looked after the upriver end of the fleet.
In the catamaran division, Ethan White and Bryce Haffner on their 16’ sloop rigged Viper Cat ‘Viper’ took off from the fleet and sailed very well to finish well ahead of the other catamarans, which were all 14’ Arrow Cats. However, once yardsticks were applied, all the Arrow Cats finished ahead, lead by Frank O’Rourke on ‘Zero’, then Jack Corthals on ‘Crackerjack’, Tony Kuhn with grandson Julian (for the downriver leg of the race) on ‘Stella’, and Scott Witchard on ‘Lukim Yu’.
In the monohulls, Simon Gandy and Ezra Mert in the MG ‘Vamos’ took off and were the first monohull home by a long way, but the rest of the fleet finished within a little over 2 minutes of each other after racing for over 2½ hours, meaning that once yardsticks were applied to the times, Troy Lewis from Taree Aquatic Club (Sailo’s) in his Sabre ‘Dead Reckoning’ took the win ahead of Steve Couch who sailed very well in his Laser ‘Lazybuoy’ to relegate his next door
neighbour in ‘Vamos’ into 3rd place by 19 seconds. Derek Ayriss and Bob Dewar in the Tasar ‘Rumpus’ took 4th place ahead of son Syd Ayriss and crew Rory Toogood in an NS14 ‘Windspeed’ by 2 minutes and 7 seconds. Dave and Hudson McNeill in their Tasar ‘Toy of Joy’ started and were going well until a capsize near the rowing club on the way up river put them out, and Gary Herbert having a try in the Impulse ‘Serenity’ was on a steep learning curve, and although not going down river past the Settlement Point Ferry, did get up to the Dennis Bridge mark, then found the very long work home a bit too much and retired.
Next week is the next round of Sprint Races, races 12-16. Stuart Symons is on duty, although it will be a light fleet with 3 boats up at the Big River Regatta, one boat at an Impulse Travellers Trophy at Great Lakes Sailing Club, and a Tasar at a Sydney regatta.
q Troy Lewis from Taree in his Sabre ‘Dead Reckoning’ who won the monohull division.
OPINION & LETTERS
Dorin’s Draws By
Paul DORIN
Have Your Say
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area.
Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication.
Please be aware that there is no guarantee or of publication from your submission to us.
Publication will be determined by the editor around av ailable space, relevance and appropriateness.
media@newsofthearea.com.au
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
HOW do we agree on a movie as a family?
I'm so sick of scrolling through trying to locate a movie everyone will enjoy.
Heather P.
Dear Heather,
You are right. Trying to find a movie that incorporates everyone's interests is a nightmare.
How is it possible, for example, to find a movie where a swashbuckling pirate discovers a solution to the climate crisis while finding/losing/finding a romantic partner, creating a genetic mutation that saves humanity, meeting a loyal dog, and forming a singing/dancing troupe that wins the national titles.
That is what it would take to find a movie that satisfies everyone in my household.
We have such divergent tastes, that it is often easier to part ways (armed with our laptops) so we can be entertained without causing friction.
This solution does mean that we are not enjoying an activity as a family, but the
NEWS
Region backs circular economy
THE Port Macquarie
Hastings region is one of Australia’s biggest supporters of second-hand items, based on the overwhelming success of last year’s Garage Sale Trail.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) was among the top performers in both the state and national leaderboards, ranking second in New South Wales and fourth nationally for the highest number of sales and stalls. According to data from
Garage Sale Trail, there were almost 9,500 residents who participated as sellers or shoppers with approximately 18,400 second-hand items sold – 35 percent of which would have ended up as landfill.
Held over two weekends in November, the Garage Sale Trail is a community-led and Council-backed reuse and behaviour change program that supports residents to buy and sell second-hand through garage sales.
“We are incredibly grateful to our community for their enthusiasm, support and willingness to get involved.
“This shared effort is what makes Garage Sale Trail such a powerful local movement,” said Corrine de Mestre, PMHC Waste Projects Officer.
“We’re excited to build
on this momentum and bring our community together again this year to make a positive impact on our environment, earn a little extra cash and strengthen our community spirit.”
The 2025 Garage Sale Trail results for Port Macquarie Hastings included:
9,461 estimated number of residents who took part as sellers or shoppers
221 garage sales and thrift markets were held
18,446 second-hand items were sold and reused over two weekends - 35 per cent of these items would otherwise have gone to landfill
$761 average takings for a household sale
$168,499 earned by local households, community groups and charities
$242,000 saved by
alternative, where everyone talks over the top of each other, falls asleep, or keeps asking for plotline explanations, is hardly enjoyable either.
The only way around this conundrum is to give each family member a turn. You could, for example, each select a movie you'd like to watch, and then have someone draw a movie selection out of a hat.
This can continue until all suggestions have been enjoyed (or totally pulled apart), and then the process can start again.
Though not every family member will be happy, it may give you a chance to explore each family member's interests, and perhaps you will learn something new about them (a secret desire to sing in an acapella group, for example or, more worryingly, an obsession with serial killers).
There are so many movie options with streaming services, that we are spoiled for choice.
I miss the days when we would go to the video shop to select a new release.
Others will no doubt remember when the only movie choice was whatever was on free-to-air.
Perhaps a family board game night could be a nice alternative to your dilemma.
Now, will it be Monopoly, Scrabble, The Game of Life, Uno or Rummy-O?
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
shoppers buying secondhand instead of new 11 tonnes of items sold and kept out of landfill 81 percent felt more connected to the
local community after participating Local results combine registration data from national participant survey results and established reuse,
emissions and economic methodologies.
This year’s Garage Sale Trail will be held on November 7-8 and 14-15.
Caravan partners sought in disaster recovery push
THE NSW Government is establishing a panel of caravan suppliers to deliver “At-Home Caravan Programs” for disaster recovery.
Activated immediately after a disaster, the program will support the NSW Reconstruction Authority to provide temporary accommodation for residents who have lost
their homes.
The program will see caravans placed on impacted residents’ private property, allowing them to remain close to their community while they rebuild or repair their home, or make longer-term relocation arrangements.
NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Recovery Ashlee Abbott
said, “The At-Home Caravan Program has proven to be a critical option for communities recovering from disasters, particularly in regional and rural areas.
“Establishing a dedicated panel of caravan suppliers means we can act faster, with confidence, and scale up temporary accommodation when future events occur.
“It also gives industry a clear pathway to support recovery efforts and play a direct role in helping communities through some of their toughest moments.”
The panel of caravan suppliers will be formed under the new Disaster Recovery Standing Panel, established in late 2025, and will support the rapid deployment of temporary
accommodation following floods, bushfires, storms and other emergencies.
An open market Request for Quotation (RFQ) will identify capable caravan suppliers who can supply caravans quickly to help communities when temporary accommodation is needed most.
Suppliers appointed to the Disaster Recovery
Standing Panel will form part of a pre-qualified network of suppliers, ready to be activated as required to support recovery needs and programs across NSW.
The RFQ will run from Wednesday 18 February to Wednesday 18 March and can be accessed via the Buy NSW website.
You must be a registered supplier to access the RFQ.
q Port Macquarie Hastings LGA ranked second in New South Wales and fourth nationally for the highest number of sales and stalls.
SUDOKU
CHILD’S scooter & helmet. Found in Stuart Park, Saturday 25/10 6581 1939.
594 PGH pavers, GC cover approx 15.9sm $500 the lot or best offer 0416 235 188 e060326
AWNING Front ARB Windbreak, $35 with straps. 0403 820 455
BANJO Paterson Collected Works Hardcover, as new $15 Also paperback $5, Ph 0447 445 319
BULK - Cheap Workshop tools, screws nails & maintenance items. Pricing from $1 6583 2029
CAMP Ovens - 30cm and 25cm both with lids. Great used cond $50 Pick up Crescent Head. 0425 322 890
FULL set of Time Life International recipe books. $5.00 0447 445 319 SOLD
GARDEN leaf blower petrol engine $45 6585 7393
CLIMBING gear, various hardware, helmet and harnesses. Make an offer. ph 0447 610 321 F121225
COMPUTER desk with keyboard drawer and storage shelf on top $50. 0459 597 012
BED Aspire King single fully adjustable, as new cond. $890. Pick up Port Mac. 0429 434 856.
BED, fold up, metal frame, ideal for camping or extra bed. $25. 0400 124 942
DECK chairs x 2, canvas & timber, GC. $20 for both. 0400 124 942
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
MARILYN Monroe framed picutre, standing in doorway 100cm x 70cm $70. 6582 5885
MOBILITY walker, good cond. Pick up PM. $40 0429 434 856 F060226
MOWER, Rover, 2 stroke, with catcher & spare blades. $40. 6583 2029 F060226 SOLD
PENTAX ESP10 vintage camera w-case & manual- top condition $200 Ph 0481
OLYMPUS MU camera 5x optical zoom with charging table $20 0435 838 917
ROOFING iron, 4 sheets, used GC. $50 the lot. 0401 226 410.
WHEELCHAIR, Gilani brand, manual, foldable brand new GC $95 Ph 0412 310 475 SOLD
SEWING cabinet, Crest with a quantity of cottons & access. $35. 6583 2029 or 0439 107 504 F130226 SOLD
bed inc mattress cover & sheets $90. 0408 826 678 RETRO Turntable Flea Market Brand FMRTC-AU. As New $50. 0428 559 572
WOOD turning lathe and motor, 600mm bed $60 Ph 02 6584 9884SOLD
ADJUSTABLE mobility chair, padded with armrests $90. 0459 597 012 KIA Picanto Ja MY21, manual 8,000km, EPW95T pristine. $12,500 ono Txt - 0411 368 288 e270226
SOLID pine timber TV cabinet. GC. $50. Ph 0400 779 531
2012 Avan Aspire 499 Caravan, TW-1270kg easy tow, DBL bed combo shower toilet air cond, diesel heater Smart TV, solar, gas elect, 12V appliances new awning, grey water tank, tool boxes front & rear, rego 6/26, very tidy well maintained, worth a look. $28,990. Y35394 0429 696 941 e270226
Caravans
Caravans
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
PROFESSOR T
ABC TV, 8.30pm
“Truth and justice are not always compatible,” muses Professor Jasper Tempest (Ben Miller, pictured) after witnessing the process firsthand. Having spent some time on remand charged with attempted murder, the fastidious academic finally gets his day in court this week. As the trial progresses, Tempest must weigh whether to tell the truth and save himself, or lie and protect his former lover, DCI Christina Brand (Juliet Aubrey). The court proceedings unfold alongside investigation into the grisly death of a prison officer.
FRIDAY,
February 27
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson visits a home orchard with unfamiliar fruits.
8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T must make a tough decision.
9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)
10.20 Dog Park. (Ml, R)
10.45 ABC Late News.
11.00 Smother. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.45 Gladiators UK. 10.45 Late Programs.
WEDNESDAY
TONIGHT AT THE
MUSEUM
ABC TV, 8pm
The brainiacs behind quirky quiz show QI will be kicking themselves for not thinking of this format first: in a museum after dark, four comedians compete in a series of cheeky but clever challenges. Filmed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart, it’s hosted by Alex Lee (pictured) and even borrows QI stalwart Alan Davies for its inaugural episode. Each week’s winner will earn the honour of having their personal treasure placed on display at TMAG in perpetuity – be that an actual treasure or just a seriously strange object they’re keen to get out of their house. Zoë Coombs Marr, Tegan Higginbotham and Brett Blake join Davies to puzzle their way through Wednesday’s premiere.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo.
8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World. (Premiere)
9.25 Fly With Me. (PGal, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Sisi. (Return, Ma)
12.00 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+as, R)
1.50 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
3.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY
THE HOSPITAL: IN THE DEEP END
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Adam Dovile transforms a cluttered garage.
8.30 The Marlow Murder Club. (Mav) After a revered member of the sailing club is brutally bludgeoned to death, Judith, Becks and Suzie must navigate simmering grudges within the tight-knit community in a hunt for justice.
10.30 To Be Advised.
12.10 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
12.40 Dare Me. (MA15+asv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
Real patients, real medical emergencies and real emotions – this landmark medical series puts three famous faces in the thick of the public health system to witness firsthand what our frontline heroes face every day. Food journalist Matt Preston (pictured), tennis star Jelena Dokic and Hollywood actor Ruby Rose scrub in for a life-changing experience at St Vincent’s Hospitals in both Sydney and Melbourne. Each has a personal connection to public health, and viewers will see a new side to the stars as they observe specialists working in departments close to their own hearts. Honest, raw, vulnerable and surprisingly heart-warming, this excellent docuseries is essential viewing.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Sea Lion Surprise. (PGm)
8.30 MOVIE: Olympus Has Fallen. (2013, MA15+lv, R) A former agent must save the White House. Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman.
10.50 MOVIE: Lions For Lambs. (2007, Mlv, R)
12.35 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) 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (R) Lynda’s rental cottage in Sunshine West is in bad shape. 8.40 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Ange and Sonia bought their Daisy Hill home in a rush and now Ange is suffering buyer’s remorse. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 10
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30
SATURDAY, February 28
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim gives up smoking.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2026. (Mln) Coverage of Australia’s largest celebration of diverse LGBTQIA+ communities from Sydney. 10.00 This England. (Ml, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. Cabinet discusses setting up a temporary hospital in East London.
10.55 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) Continuous music programming.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Junior. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Neil And Martin’s Bon Voyage.
8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (R)
9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R)
10.20 Highclere: The Real Downton Abbey. (PG, R) 11.15 Outlander. (MA15+av, R)
1.35 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.00 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A passenger tries negotiating a deal.
7.30 MOVIE: Fast X. (2023, Mv) A terrifying threat from the past surfaces and is determined to destroy everything and everyone Dom loves. Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez.
10.30 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017, MA15+v, R) A getaway driver gets involved in a doomed heist. Ansel Elgort.
12.50 Devils. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R)
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. (Return, PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Runaway Bride. (1999, PGls, R) 11.00 MOVIE: Something Borrowed. (2011, Mls, R) 1.05 Find My Beach House Australia. (PG, R)
Great Australian Detour. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
SUNDAY, March 1
6.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (Final, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (Ml) Penny announces Farty Marty has to be put down.
9.00 This England. (Ml) Looks at Britain during COVID-19.
9.45 MOVIE: Shine. (1996, PGav, R)
A pianist suffers a nervous breakdown. Geoffrey Rush.
11.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.40 Ragdoll. (MA15+av, R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 4.50pm Peppa Pig. 5.00 Thomas And Friends: Sodor Sings Together. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Meet The Hedgehogs. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.30 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 8.30 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 10.20 Radioactive. (2019, M) 12.20pm The Daughter. (2015, M) 2.10 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 3.55 Discovering Film. 4.45 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 6.30 My Girl. (1991) 8.30 Argo. (2012, M) 10.55 Unfaithful. (2002, MA15+) 1.10am Late Programs. 5.45 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Rome: Secrets From Above. (Premiere)
9.35 Ancient Empires. (MA15+av, R) Looks at the life of Julius Ceasar. 11.40 Powerful Women.
2.00 MOVIE: The Endangered Generation? (2022, PGal, R)
3.35 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 Euronews.
5.30 PBS News Horizons.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Mia And The White Lion. Continued. (2018, PG) 7.35 Discovering Film. 8.25 My Girl. (1991) 10.25 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001, M) 12.05pm Argo. (2012, M) 2.25 The Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 4.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.25 Charade. (1963, PG) 8.30 Parasite. (2019, MA15+, Korean) 10.55 Michael Collins. (1996, M) 1.25am Petrol. (2022, MA15+) 3.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol.
8.20 The Mystery Of The Lady In The Lake. (Mav) Takes a look at the murder of Shani Warren. 9.50 The Hunters: The Car Bomb And The Underworld War. (Madv, R) Takes a look at the murder of John Furlan.
Children’s Programs. 8.00 Jeopardy! 9.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 9.30
Helping Hands. (PG, R) 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: The Devil Comes To Utah. (MA15+asv)
The First 48. (Mav, R)
The
Norton
(Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined by Sir Idris Elba, Martin Freeman, Erin Doherty, Wunmi Mosaku and singer-songwriter Olivia Dean. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGa, R) The team takes on a harassment case. 12.00 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.30 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s
7MATE (64)
MONDAY, March 2
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG)
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 Other People’s Money. (Ml)
11.35 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R)
2.45 Greenland: Survival At The Edge. (R)
3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (Masv) Hen’s attempts at keeping her health issues private start to impact more than just her physical wellbeing.
10.15 Granny Killer: The Unsolved Murders. (Mav, R) Takes a look at John Wayne Glover.
11.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.50 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 Epstein: Making Of A Monster.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Love Cheats. (Return, Ma)
Sight Unseen. (Return, Mv)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Shop.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago.
6am The Orator.
Continued. (2011, PG, Samoan) 7.10 Charade. (1963, PG) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.05 Man Up. (2015, M) 11.40 Michael Collins. (1996, M) 2.10pm Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 3.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 5.40 Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 8.30 Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 11.05 The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 1.55am Late Programs. 5.55 The Movie Show.
TUESDAY, March 3
2.05 Parliament. 3.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R)
8.30 Insight. (Return)
9.30 Dateline. (Return)
10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Exit. (MA15+ads, R)
11.55 Syndrome E. (MA15+s, R)
1.55 Safe Home. (Mal, R) 2.50 Greenland: Survival At The Edge. (PG, R) 3.45 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Doc. (Mav) After receiving tragic news, Jake refuses to give up on a beloved patient, landing himself in conflict with several Westside surgeons.
10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (MA15+al) Follows the work of an ambulance service.
11.10 St. Denis Medical. (PGals)
12.10 MOVIE: Taken Again. (2023, Mav, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Discovering Film. 7.25 Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 10.20 Eiffel. (2021, M, French) 12.20pm First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 2.10 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 4.10 Charade. (1963, PG) 6.10 Wings Of Desire. (1987, PG, German) 8.30 Memoirs Of A Geisha. (2005) 11.10 Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 1.25am Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 4.00 Late Programs.
(22)
WEDNESDAY, March 4
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Diabolical: The Epstein Files. (R) 11.15 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 4.00 MOVIE: Murdoch Mysteries: Under The Dragon’s Tail. (2005, Mv) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum. 9.05 Destination Flavour: Singapore. 9.25 My Unique B&B. 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. 11.10 The Toy Hospital. (Premiere) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 The Wonders Of Europe. (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 Australian Idol. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s
6am Sometimes
Always Never. (2018, PG) 7.40 Discovering Film. 8.35 Wings Of Desire. (1987, PG, German) 10.55 Moving. (1993, M, Japanese) 1.10pm Metropolis. (1927, PG, German) 4.05 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 5.55 Tokyo Story. (1953, PG, Japanese) 8.30 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 10.50 Arcadia. (2024) 12.45am Memoirs Of A Geisha. (2005) 3.25 Late Programs. 5.40 The Movie Show.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour: Singapore. 9.25 My Unique B&B. 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. 11.05 The Toy Hospital. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Ancient Egypt: Top 7 Pyramids. 3.00 Going Places. 3.30 Cook Up. 4.05 Wonders Of Europe.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)
8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Return, Ma)
9.35 A Spy Among Friends.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 In Memoriam. (Madlv)
12.00 The Hollow. (Madlv, R)
2.05 Silent Road. (Mav, R)
4.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31) VICELAND (31)
9.20 The Social Schism. 10.20 MOVIE: The 355. (2022, M) 12.35am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.30 Tales From The Territories. 2.25 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm DW The Day.
Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: To Catch A Killer. (2023) 10.40 Brassic. 12.30am Couples Therapy. 1.40 Cosplay Culture. 3.25 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 8.10 Tokyo Story. (1953, PG, Japanese) 10.40 The Longest Week. (2014, M) 12.15pm Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 Discovering Film. 4.00 Limelight. (1952, PG) 6.25 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House. (2017, PG) 8.30 Gravity. (2013, M) 10.15 Misery. (1990, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. Tane’s court date looms.
7.30 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Sydney v Carlton.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.00 Kick Ons. (Return) A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.
11.30 To Be Advised.
12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Tragic news spreads through town.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(64) SBS MOVIES (32)
4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Melbourne Storm v Parramatta Eels.
NRL Thursday Night Footy
9GO! (83) 9GO! (83)
PORT MACQUARIE
Friday, 27 February 2026
Local Community
~ Proudly Independent
TO
Port Macquarie Panthers
Rock and Roll Dance Club
Port Macquarie Seniors Hall, 42 Munster St Every Thursday. Doors open 6.30pm
Season approaching
Panthers Port Macquarie
The Westport Club
Frankies Cafe
Four Espresso
El Motel Inn
Glasshouse Port Macquarie
Redcross Blood Donation Centre
Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie
Ahdeniz Grill House
Florence Jones
Port AdVenture Cruises
The Hearing Shop
Your Discount Chemist Horton St
Lilys Cafe
Port Pacific Resort
Majestic Cinema
Port Macquarie Hotel Bottle Shop
Port Macquarie Surfing Museum
The Witchy Nook
Colonial Meats
Rock Salt Marina
Seasalt Cafe & Restaurant
Woolworths, Settlement City
Big Boz Cafe
Ken Little’s Fruit & Veg
Foodworks Munster Street
Seniors Centre
Shelly Beach Store
Flynns Beach Pharmacy
Roam Cafe
Flynns Beach Post Office
Home at Roto House
Mercure Centro
Band Wagon Cafe
For Everything Surf & Skate
Ridges Hotel
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THE fixture for the 2026
AFL North Coast senior competition has been finalised and it’s now little more than six weeks until the season begins.
When the first bounce of the season takes place on April 11, the AFL North Coast will have five clubs fielding teams in the Senior Men's and Reserves competitions and four clubs playing in the Senior Women's Grade.
The first day of matches will see the women’s competition take centre stage while the men and reserves have been given an added week to prepare for their seasons.
AFL Northern NSW Community Football and Competition Manager Brad Greenshields said the 2026 season promises to be a great one.
“The return of the Northern Beaches Blues to Senior Men's footy this year has the local footy community excited for the season ahead,”
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Greenshields said.
“The standard of football played in the AFL North Coast has improved each year, particularly in the women’s competition, and I’ve no doubt it will again in 2026.
“Of course a major highlight this year will be the AFL North Coast hosting both men's and women's representative football matches in Port Macquarie on July 18.”
Winter Saturdays will be filled with footy until the Grand Finals which will be part of a big weekend with the big day for the seniors being played at C.ex Coffs International Stadium on August 29 before the juniors play their grand finals at the same venue the next day.
The fixture for the juniors will be released within a fortnight but a start date of Sunday, April 26 has been locked in for the younger players.
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q When the AFL North Coast season starts on 11 April, the feature of the opening round will be the women’s competition. Photo: AFL North Coast.
