Skip to main content

Port Macquarie News Of The Area 29 MAY 2026

Page 1


In

“Swimming

Sue STEPHENSON sue@newsofthearea.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au Or

Phone us : 9am - 3pm daily. (02) 4981 8882

www.newsofthearea.com.au

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

OUTLETS

Where to Find your Newspaper

Available in newsstands & counters of over 100 businesses & locations throughout Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.

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

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

state’s highest

NEW data has revealed the Port MacquarieHastings and Coffs Harbour local government areas recorded some of the largest increases in rough sleeping across NSW in 2026.

Each year the NSW Government partners with local organisations across the state to complete “street counts” to provide a point-in-time count of the number of people in a geographical location observed to

be experiencing street homelessness.

These organisations include Specialist Homelessness Services, local councils, Community Housing Providers, Aboriginal organisations, local community groups and NSW Police.

The 2026 Street Count, conducted across more than 461 towns and suburbs in 77 local government areas between 23 February and 19 March, found Coffs Harbour's count rose by 52 to reach 151 people

sleeping rough. Port Macquarie recorded a rise of 47, bringing its total to 116.

The Hunter and Central Coast also recorded significant increases, with 100 people sleeping on the streets of the Central Coast alone34 more than in 2025.

In the Hunter, Newcastle recorded the highest numbers with 66 people sleeping rough, followed by Lake Macquarie with 60 and Port Stephens with 35. Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson said the data helped direct government

investment where it was most needed.

"The urgent need to address the root causes of homelessness remains a work in progress to ensure that no one in our community is left behind," Jackson said.

"The data tells us that a lack of affordable housing and high cost of living are the most common drivers, which is exactly why the NSW Government is laser-focused on building more homes as quickly as possible."

Jackson noted that the rate of increase was slowing, pointing to a 34 percent rise in 2023 that

eased to eight per cent in 2025 and five percent this year.

"We are making headway, but it won't happen overnight," she said.

Some areas offered cause for cautious optimism, with Sydney's CBD and Byron Bay both recording reductions - regions where government intervention had been concentrated in recent years.

According to the total count, the state's homeless population climbed to 2,308 peoplea five percent rise on the previous year.

CSU graduations celebrated

CHARLES Sturt

University (CSU) celebrated the graduation of approximately 352 students at four ceremonies at The Glasshouse on Wednesday and Thursday this week.

The Port Macquarie ceremonies are part of the Charles Sturt 2026 graduation season across its six main campuses in April and May, in which approximately 1,718 graduates will receive their degrees at ceremonies in AlburyWodonga, Bathurst,

Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie and Wagga Wagga.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon PSM said graduation ceremonies are key to students’ journeys.

“Graduates might be the first person in their family to attend and graduate from university, and some will have studied part-time and remotely, balancing work and family commitments to pursue their goals,” Professor Leon said.

“At some point,

they will have faced personal, professional and academic challenges; overcoming those challenges is a remarkable achievement.”

Bachelor of Paramedicine student Mr Ryan Ostermann graduated in the Faculty of Science and Health ceremony on Wednesday.

Mr Ostermann said studying at Charles Sturt in Port Macquarie has been a major milestone for him.

“I have met lifelong friends and had amazing

experiences with them,” he said.

“The lecturers at Charles Sturt University provided exceptional academic guidance and support throughout the course, always encouraging students to thrive and succeed.

“I would highly recommend the course to anyone considering a career in paramedicine, and I am excited to begin my career as a paramedic and am eager to see where it takes me in life.”

The most popular

courses among Port Macquarie campus graduates are the Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Paramedicine and Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. The most popular courses university-wide among graduates are Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Paramedicine, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Bachelor of Education (Birth to Five Years) and Bachelor of Physiotherapy.

Test smoke alarms ahead of winter

WITH 1 June marking the first day of winter, residents are being urged to test their smoke alarms as part of the national safety reminder for Smoke Alarm Action Day.

As temperatures drop, the risk of house fires increases due to greater use of heaters, electric blankets, fireplaces, and cooking appliances.

At the same time, households are charging and using more electronic devices than ever before, increasing potential fire hazards in the home.

Fire authorities are reminding residents that smoke alarms provide an

early warning in the event of a fire, giving occupants valuable time to escape safely. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms significantly reduce the risk of injury and death in house fires.

Smoke Alarm Action Day carries a simple but important message: take one minute to check your smoke alarm is working, test it, and replace it if it isn’t.

“It’s something every household can do, but many people don’t think about it until it’s too late,” an event spokesperson told NOTA.

“Don’t become

complacent when it comes to fire safety.”

Residents are encouraged to:

• Test every smoke alarm in their home

• Replace batteries where needed

• Replace smoke alarms older than 10 years

• Ensure alarms are

properly installed and maintained

• Create and practise a home fire escape plan.

q Paramedicine graduate Ryan Ostermann with Vice Chancellor Renée Leon.
q Jasmine Kaur is graduating from Nursing.
q Caitlin Spora, Ella Maynard, Abbey Macleod, Lydia Higgins, Alyssa Shaw are graduating from Occupational Therapy.

Disability advocate Erika Gleeson receives OAM

FROM Page 1

life, but for neurodiverse children there are often barriers in place that prevent them learning to swim,” she told NOTA.

“Growing up here it has been such a big part of my identity that it seemed outrageous that not everyone

could access it.”

Autism Swim, a specialised swim safety program supporting people on the autism spectrum, is now embedded in 30 countries, working with swim centres and instructors, aquatic therapists, families, schools, Surf Life Saving Clubs and more.

While Ms Gleeson plans to be in the disability sector for the rest of her life, she has now stepped back and taken on an advisory role in the organisation while she explores other projects.

A seventeen-year veteran of disability boards and media advocacy, she is now setting her sights on what she

refers to as the gap between vulnerable people and what the system is resourced to provide them.

Her podcast, “Behave”, is neuro-affirming and aims to debunk old-school ideas about behaviour and shine a light on systems that are reactive rather than proactive.

Reflecting on her OAM,

Ms Gleeson said the award belongs to “the parents surviving on no sleep while fighting bureaucracy with everything they’ve got”.

“The support workers staying back past knock-off.

“The allied health professionals absorbing endless non-billables with little acknowledgement.

“The educators who keep showing up.

“The therapists, advocates, carers and humans doing the hard, invisible work every single day, in a system that can feel very broken.

“I hope this puts disability in the spotlight where it needs to be.”

Penfold’s bid to redefine ‘woman’ and ‘man’

MEMBER for Lyne Alison Penfold has introduced a Private Member’s Bill to the Australian Parliament to amend the Sex Discrimination Act.

Ms Penfold wants the definitions of a man and woman to be based on biological sex, not selfidentification.

In a statement before addressing fellow MPs and the media on Monday, Ms Penfold said, “The Parliament has a responsibility to provide clear legal protections for women and girls in Australian law.

“This would ensure [that] where there is a conflict, biological sex prevails.”

The introduction of the Bill follows the landmark Federal Court ruling on 15

May in the long-running case involving the app Giggle for Girls and transgender woman Roxanne Tickle.

In a unanimous decision, three judges ruled that the operators of the app, founded by Sall Grover, discriminated against Ms Tickle by excluding her from the women-only forum.

Equality Australia Legal Director Heather Corkhill said the court ruling was a win for both women and LGBTIQ+ people because it found that the concept of womanhood “is not to be understood by reference to any narrow or rigid conception of femaleness.”

In response to Ms Penfold’s Bill, she said it “would give sexism and misogyny a free pass while stripping trans women of basic protections.”

Ms Penfold said the presentation of her Bill so soon after the Federal Court ruling was a “coincidence” as it had been on the parliament’s Notice Paper for more than seven weeks.

However, she said the Giggle for Girls case shows that “the current law created by the Gillard Labor Government in 2013 was not fit for purpose”.

“Every Australian deserves dignity, safety and respect but women and girls deserve certainty that sex-based protections in law mean something in practice – on the sporting field, in women’s only gyms, on women-only online apps and in women’s prisons and domestic violence shelters.

“Sex is biological and binary and should not be ambiguous.”

The Bill also includes protections for female services, spaces and activities. A copy can be found at alisonpenfold.com.au/ protectingwomenandgirls.

q Lyne MP Alison Penfold outside Federal Parliament with Nationals Leader Matt Canavan and Giggle for Girls founder Sall Grover. Photo: Supplied by Office of Alison Penfold MP.

Education office officially opens

THE NSW Department of Education officially opened a new Education Office in Port Macquarie on Tuesday 26 May.

The opening marks an important milestone for public education across the region, with the facility set to

serve as a vital hub to support schools, students, staff, and communities.

The official opening began with Jikyha DungayVitnell from Wauchope High School playing didgeridoo, a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by Uncle Bill O’Brien OAM, and a mindfulness activity led by

Uncle Wayne Anderson in the outdoor gathering space.

Emma Jeffery, Director of Educational Leadership at the Department of Education, noted the significance of the opening date.

“26 May also marks National Sorry Day and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week - a

time of remembrance and healing that acknowledges the strength of our stolen generation survivors,” Ms Jeffery said.

“This year’s national theme ‘from sorry to action’ reflects the expectation that there is ongoing commitment to truth telling, healing and justice.”

Ms Jeffery said the event reflected the Department’s “ongoing commitment to collaboration, educational leadership, and strong partnerships with local Aboriginal communities”.

Lisa Muir, Executive Director of the Regional North and West Public Schools Directorate, sees Indigenous education as a key priority area.

The local Directorate has the highest proportion of Indigenous students of any across NSW, with 15,259 students out of a total of 62,000 from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background.

“Our opening during this week is symbolic of our commitment to reconciliation and to each other in this building as we work together for our students,” Ms Muir said.

“As we move forward in this amazing space, do so in the service of our students because every single one of our students matters,” Ms Muir urged her fellow educators.

Aunty Linda Olive OAM, an Aboriginal Community

Bumper turnout for greyhound adoption

A RECENT greyhound adoption day facilitated by Greyhounds As Pets (GAP) has been heralded a huge success after eleven dogs were adopted in the space of three hours.

Hosted at Petstock Port Macquarie on Sunday, GAP Welfare Officer and Board Director Mark Slater said the adoptions were a “sensational” outcome.

“The demand for greyhounds shows us that we need another GAP coordinator in the region,” Mr Slater said.

“I always say that they are the felines of the dog world.

“At heart they just love sleeping, and their very relaxed and laidback nature makes them extremely appealing pets.”

Prior to being offered for adoption all the dogs are extensively assessed and receive comprehensive vet

checks, with GAP volunteers working to match them with adopters based on personalities and household dynamics.

Post-adoption support is also provided to ensure both the greyhound and their owner are happy with the arrangement.

Zoe McShane and David Graham adopted greyhound Sam on the day.

“He just seemed so happy and relaxed and we knew he would fit in with us so well,” Zoe

said.

“We went and had some breakfast and decided that if he was still there when we got back, we’d adopt him.

“He is settling in so well already and is already part of the family, with plenty of grandmas and pops to spoil him.”

Adoption events are held regularly across the state, visit gapnsw.com.au for more information.

Liaison Officer with the Department, has spent the past 50 years working in Indigenous education.

She spoke at the opening about the trauma of her childhood.

“I think I chose that occupation because I wanted to leave a better place for our young kids,” Ms Olive said.

Bella Coombs from Wauchope High School spoke eloquently about her grandfather, who she said endured so much while always standing strong.

“Aboriginal education gives young people like me the opportunity to not only learn but truly connect with who we are,” Ms Coombs said.

“It reminds us that our voice matters, our culture matters and that we deserve to be seen, heard and celebrated.”

q Officials cut the ribbon to open the new office. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Zoe McShane, David Graham and Sam.

Kylie story hits the stage

THE Port Macquarie Performing Arts production of “Kylie - on a night like this” enjoyed a sold-out, three show run at The Glasshouse on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 May.

Kylie Minogue was already the name on everyone’s lips, after the “Kylie” documentary dropped on Netflix earlier that week.

Port Macquarie local Peter Gill was the creative brain behind the Glasshouse extravaganza and taught the choreography for all dance numbers.

His international career as a professional dancer across the United States and beyondand his work in live theatre, music videos, film and television - brought a global perspective to the Port Macquarie stage.

“The influence of Kylie has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my journey,” Peter said.

”Her iconic music videos and live performances played a key role in the creative vision behind this production.”

More than 20 songs made for a fabulous playlist.

The show featured 120 local dancers of all ages from Port Macquarie Performing Arts, joined by dancers from the Andrea Rowsell Academy of Dance in Taree.

Guest artists included vocalists Adele Parkinson, Charlotte Rose and Fiona Jensen, who carried the songs with Kylie-like energy and fun.

Drag Queen Logan the Only was a crowd favourite as she rose from the pit in a fabulous red hooded costume to perform “Padam Padam” and “Can’t Get You Out of my Head”.

Professional dancers Rhys Bobridge, Whyan Shen, Stevie G, Sam Mc and Ryan Smith added male strength and grit to “Tension”.

Highlights included the contemporary work for “Confide in Me”, the cabaret style for “Locomotion”, and the tiered scaffold and elevation for “All the Lovers”.

The staging, costuming and lighting all made for a professional show that local audiences loved.

PMPA Principal Stacey Morgan, who produced the show, heaped praise upon “magnificent” teachers Angela Jamieson, Rebecca Graham, Chenaye Meyer and Peter Gill.

“[They] really are the best in the business,” she said.

Ms Morgan said PMPA alumni came from all over the country to dance with the company for the shows.

“What a joy it was to spend time with them and see them shine up there on The Glasshouse stage,” she said.

“We loved watching our visionary Mr Pete on stage too and we hope we made him proud.”

q Students from the Intensive Performance Program. Photo: supplied.
q Guest artists (top L-R) Whyan Chen, Stevie G, Peter Gill, Ryan Smith, (bottom L-R) Rhys Bobridge and Sam Mc. Photo: supplied.

Magpies ‘swoop’ into top spot

THE results of the 12th national bird count are in, with the Australian Magpie taking out top spot.

The Aussie Bird Count was held last October and saw a record breaking five million birds counted over one week.

Organiser, Birdlife Australia, said 64,000 citizen scientists took part in the event.

Half of all surveys included a sighting of the iconic black-and-white magpie.

The Rainbow Lorikeet claimed second position on the list of most commonly spotted species, ahead of the native Noisy Miner, the

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, and the Magpie-lark.

As in previous years, the Rainbow Lorikeet was the most abundant bird.

“Because rainbow lorikeets are more social, hanging out in flocks.. we see more of them,” said BirdLife Australia’s National Public Affairs advisor Sean Dooley.

“But the magpie is the bird we encounter most often.

“Every second person who did the Count last year added a magpie to their list.”

The 10 most commonly seen birds are: 1. Australian Magpie; 2. Rainbow Lorikeet; 3. Noisy Miner; 4. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo;

5. Magpie-lark; 6. Galah; 7. Red Wattlebird; 8. Crested Pigeon; 9. Welcome Swallow; and 10. Common Myna.

Sightings were recorded across the mainland and in the territories of Christmas Island and Cocos Island, and sub-Antarctic Heard Island.

Around 70 percent, however, were conducted in built-up areas, providing a snapshot of the birds sharing increasingly urbanised environments.

Some birds outside the Top 10 were shown to be climbing the ranks.

The Australian White Ibis went from 23rd place in 2021, to 14th in 2025, while in NSW and Queensland the

Australian Brush-turkey moved up the ladder.

“Birds respond to the changes we make to our environment,” Mr Dooley said.

“Everybody knows the bin-chicken, especially in Sydney and Brisbane where they’re doing well in the city.

“[They] have found ways to take advantage of urban growth.

“Sadly, the flipside is… smaller bush birds get pushed into decline as their habitats are destroyed.

“Adding native plants to your garden can offer a lifeline to those other Australian native birds that we’re more worried about.”

“BirdLife Australia turns 125 this year, and it all started when a passionate community of people observed the birds around them and shared their sightings with others.

“That’s still the backbone of everything we do.”

Wauchope community gardens up and running

TELEGRAPH Point resident

Greg Franks is passionate about gardening and believes

everyone should have the opportunity to grow things.

As a driving force behind the three-year project to re-establish the Wauchope

Community Gardens, he is delighted that they are finally up and running.

Funded by a state government grant, and

facilitated by a committee under the Hastings Residents Association, the gardens are set on approximately half an acre on the corner

of Tallowood Avenue and Mahogany Way in Wauchope.

Keen gardeners can apply to join the initiative for a small annual fee, which provides them with access to the fenced off grounds, with the main proviso being that they maintain anything they plant.

“We had so many community gardeners upset that the previous garden was no longer available after the land it sat on was sold,” Greg told NOTA.

“I was familiar with grants so I thought this would be a great communal activity space.

Bob’s decades of Lifeline service

STALWART volunteer Bob

Donato has been recognised for his 20 years of service to Lifeline in Port Macquarie.

Mr Donato was presented with a service award honouring his two decades of dedication during National Volunteer Week, which ran from 18-24 May.

Each year Lifeline answers one million calls

from Australians in moments of distress and crisis.

From its small beginnings in 1963 as a single phone line in Sydney, it now has more than 11,000 volunteers providing support services across the country.

Mr Donato was living in Orange NSW in 1989 when he saw an advertisement for Lifeline volunteers and decided to sign up.

“I wanted to make

a contribution to the community, and having lived in regional towns I felt such a connection to people,” he said.

“I said I’d give it five years and see how it went.”

Having now served Lifeline for 20 years in the Port Macquarie region, Mr Donato said the work is as rewarding as ever.

“When you’re on the phone and people call, I’m the

person,” he said.

“It is a privileged position to be in; being told things they don’t tell anyone else.

“You learn so much about yourself and the world.

“The rewards are exponential and that is what keeps drawing you back,” he said.

Lifeline shops across the Mid North Coast hosted celebrations last week for their volunteers, who they refer to as the heart behind the service.

More than 50 awards were given out across the region, honouring volunteers with five, 10, 15, and 20 years of service to the organisation.

“Adding to the emotion of the celebrations, members of the Lifeline Mid Coast Board - all volunteers themselves - spoke from the heart, reflecting on what it means to serve, to listen, and to be

there for the community when it matters most,” a Lifeline spokesperson said.

“Whether they are answering a call in someone’s darkest moment or supporting the day-to-day work of Lifeline shops, these volunteers are the quiet force

The full results can be found on aussiebirdcount. org.au/.

The 2026 Aussie Bird Count will take place in Bird Week from 19–25 October. For more information, visit aussiebirdcount.org.au.

“It’s got a beautiful outlook and is just a nice place to be, you can sit here with your coffee and enjoy the peace.”

There is concrete as well as compacted gravel paths running alongside raised garden beds to assist potential gardeners with mobility challenges, and a small clubhouse with amenities.

With a current membership of thirty gardeners and beds of flowers, kale, lettuce and tomatoes there is plenty of scope to plant a variety of crops.

Enquiries to Greg Franks on 0434 991156.

behind the organisation’s impact.

“Lifeline Mid Coast extends its deepest thanks to every volunteer - past and present.

“Their kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment continue to change lives.

“Quite simply, they are Lifeline.”

q Magpies are Australia’s most-seen bird according to the latest national count. Photo: Kim Duggan.
q The fountain area at the community gardens.
q The clubhouse at the community gardens.
q Port Macquarie Lifeline celebrating Volunteer Week
q Bob Donato cutting his 20-year celebration cake.

Morning teas for a good cause

CANCER Council Australia’s

Biggest Morning Teas have been held in many local homes, schools, businesses and organisations over the past few weeks.

The annual campaign raises vital funds to make a major difference in the lives of those impacted by cancer.

More than 500,000 event hosts over the last 33 years have joined the cause.

Local Carmel James attended a Biggest Morning Tea event at a friend’s house on Thursday 21 May, with more than $1000 being raised for the Cancer Council.

“I’m reminded of how powerful simple moments can be - a cup of tea, shared stories and people coming together to support those affected by cancer,” she told NOTA.

The Seniors Activities Club in Port Macquarie ran an event on Sunday 17 May, which included a substantial morning tea offering.

There were also lucky dips, guessing competitions, a white elephant stall, a cent auction and a major raffle.

“We raised $1420 and we are very happy with that,” said Vicky Martin, one of the organisers.

Staff at Linked

Community Services also came together for a morning tea on Thursday 21 May.

The Friends of Mrs York’s Garden had planned a morning tea fundraiser for this week (Wednesday, 27 May), however it has been postponed until Wednesday, 3 June.

“We are notorious for enjoying a cuppa and cake after our working bees so we are inviting the community to join us for this very important cause,” group president Di Davison said.

Held from 9.30am until midday at Mrs York’s Garden in Port Macquarie, the morning tea event will feature entertainment, games and raffles.

As part of the fundraising there will be a silent auction of an oil painting of the Thredbo River by renowned Newcastle artist Shelagh Lummis.

The artwork has been donated by her husband following Shelagh’s passing from breast cancer over a year ago.

The painting is on display at the library and details regarding the silent auction are available there as well as on the Friends of Mrs York’s Garden Facebook page.

Biggest Morning Teas will run until the end of June.

For more information about how to donate or host an event, visit www. biggestmorningtea.com.au.

CWA modelling community spirit

THE Lake Cathie-Hastings Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) held their annual fashion show at the Lake Cathie Community Centre on Saturday 23 May.

Always a muchanticipated social outing, the event also raises funds for the branch’s community projects, including a long-running partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The 30 members of the group have previously raised funds in support of specialised swim program

Autism Swim, along with local schools and show societies.

In support of the branch, 100 people attended Saturday's show and were treated to a delicious afternoon tea organised by Joy Pengilly, raffles, lucky door prizes, and music provided by Quinten Thompson.

The models, who were dressed in designs provided by JA Fashions of Laurieton, were coordinated by Lexie Burton.

Taking to the catwalk were Ruth McNiff, Carol Hayes, Kerrie White, Gail Brown, Jenny Cox and Ann Goddard.

For branch president Lexie Burton, joining the CWA was a way to anchor herself

locally.

“I moved down from Brisbane and wanted to join an organisation to meet people,” she said.

“CWA has helped me make friends where I live.”

The CWA has been an integral part of Australian life for more than 100 years and is the nation’s largest women’s organisation.

Originally it was established to help improve the health, education, and social conditions for women and children living on the land.

Over time the CWA has become a powerful grassroots advocacy group that connects women across the country.

q Carmel, Pam, Janelle, Robyn, Nicole and Denise gathered with 10 others at a friend’s house for a Biggest Morning Tea event, where they raised more than $1000. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Ruth McNiff modelling. Photos: CWA Branch.
q Chris and Gail selling raffles tickets.

NATURAL MEDICINE WEEK

May 25th - 31st

Advertising feature

Natural Medicine Week is a week long celebration of online events and education aimed to raise awareness of the important role natural medicine practitioners play in the health and wellbeing of Australians.

Vedic Meditation is both ancient and perfectly suited to modern times—easy to learn and effortless to practise.

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, tired, seeking more balance—or simply longing for a greater sense of fulfilment? Vedic Meditation offers an effortless way to release stress, increase energy, and support greater wellbeing in everyday life.

With over 24 years supporting others in health and trauma-relief roles, I’ve witnessed both the challenges of modern life and the resilience of the human spirit. Through this journey, I came to understand the profound power of a simple pause, which led me to Vedic Meditation. Today, I share this timeless practice with people from all walks of life. Your first step is simply a conversation. You’re warmly invited to connect, ask questions, and discover whether Vedic Meditation is right for you. Visit my website or get in touch directly.

alya hopkins

vedic meditation

www.alyahopkins.com alyahopkins@icloud.com 0439 665 475

Nicola Lowe – Stillnesswork

Naturopath | Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist | Herbalist

Nicola Lowe is a highly experienced holistic practitioner with over 40 years in the healing arts. Specialising in Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy and Naturopathic Medicine, she supports clients experiencing stress, trauma, anxiety, pain, and nervous system dysregulation through gentle, personalised therapies that encourage balance, wellbeing, and the body’s natural ability to heal.

At Forgiving Foods, we believe true wellness begins with a holistic approach to health. To us, healing is not simply about treating symptoms with medication, but about understanding the underlying causes — physically, emotionally, and mentally — behind illness and dis-ease.

Our focus is on supporting the nervous system, restoring balance, and enhancing overall wellbeing in every aspect of life. Wellness is about caring for the body, mind, and emotions alike, because the way we think and feel can affect our health just as much as the food and substances we consume.

Research suggests that many Australians experience significant stress or trauma each year, highlighting the growing need for compassionate, whole-body support and healing.

As Hippocrates famously said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Whether viewed through a spiritual, traditional, or modern lens, the connection between nutrition and health has been recognised for centuries.

There is little doubt that the quality of our food and water has changed over recent decades. While modern medicine certainly has an important role to play, we also believe in supporting the body naturally through carefully selected supplements, nutritional hemp, plant-based medicine, and holistic therapies that encourage the body’s innate ability to heal and restore itself.

At Forgiving Foods, we are proud to offer a range of passionate and experienced practitioners who work alongside our nutritional support and wellness products to help clients heal, reset, regulate, and relax. Our services include massage therapy, Reiki, naturopathy, herbal medicine, craniosacral therapy, and more.

Shop 8, Haven Plaza, Bold Street, Laurieton • 6559 9251

Alya Hopkins | Vedic Meditation Teacher Mid North Coast, NSW

State to determine Port’s Ocean Pool future

PLANS for an ocean pool at the northern end of Oxley Beach will progress to the NSW Government for a gateway determination.

At their monthly meeting on Thursday 21 May, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council voted 5-2 in favour of the pool proposal advancing to the next stage of the statutory planning process.

A Council statement following the meeting stressed that this does not represent approval of the project, nor does it commit Council to future funding, ownership, operational responsibility or ongoing maintenance of the facility.

Council staff had recommended that the Ocean Pool Committee’s request for additional permitted use of the beach under the Port Macquarie-Hastings Local Environmental Plan 2011 (LEP) not proceed, on the grounds that it did not demonstrate “sufficient strategic and site-specific merit”.

However, Mayor Adam Roberts moved that Council not accept the recommendation of staff because of “demonstrated strong support from within the community”, and because the proposal is early in the planning.

“Forwarding the proposal for a gateway determination will assist in identifying any other assessment matters that may need to be addressed,” he said.

Councillor Mark Hornshaw seconded the motion.

“Council sits under the NSW government. The NSW government has the power to change not only land zoning, but even the very laws that govern how council operates,” he said.

“Council’s not in any way approving the development of an ocean pool at this time.

“That’s a long way down the track. Neither is Council committing any resources, either now or in the future.

Cr Danielle Maltman said supporting the motion demonstrates “evidencebased decision making by allowing the proposal to proceed through the proper independent assessment process.

“The question before Council today is not whether councillors support or oppose an Ocean Pool at Oxley Beach in Port Macquarie, but whether the proposal should be properly tested through the statutory planning framework.”

Cr Nick Lipovac spoke against the motion.

“The motion in front of us seeking gateway determination has the potential to set a domino effect, meaning Council may have little say in the project moving forward,” he said.

“A major consideration is how we can seek to rezone the land when the verified local Aboriginal Land Council has now rescinded its support for the proposal.”

“Council should step in and say, hang on a minute, on our list of priorities that [we’ve] had for a number of years (and there’s a 34page document on Council’s website outlining the projects and their estimated cost)... we need funding for Stage One of the new aquatic centre or for improving the Oxley Highway between the roundabouts.”

Cr Hamish Tubman spoke to the motion, while noting a few concerns.

“It’s going to a gateway determination, it’s going to the minister, so there’s a long way to go,” he said.

“A large portion of the population is in favour.”

“[There are] potential dangers down the line… if this does actually come to fruition, in terms of funding and a few other issues, but I think I’m going to let this one go through and see.”

Cr Lauren Edwards was opposed to the motion to ignore the staff recommendation.

“In 2022, I did vote to give my ‘in principle’ support for the project and Council gave it ‘in principle support’,” she

noted.

“But what I am hearing increasingly is that it’s quite clear that this will become a Council project and a Council liability. “Whereas what we were led to believe back then, was that ‘in principle’ support didn’t commit Council in any way that could be tested.

“We can do more and more and more - there are major projects, there’s critical works - [but] there is never enough money and our number one responsibility as a Councillor is our financial sustainability.”

Councillors Maltman, Kirkman, Hornshaw and Tubman voted in favour of the Mayor’s motion to allow the proposal to proceed to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

Nik Lipovac (who was still Deputy Mayor at that point) and Cr Lauren Edwards voted against it proceeding.

Cr Rachel Sheppard had an approved leave of absence from the meeting.

A Council spokesperson later clarified that “this is a formal step in the NSW planning pathway process, which determines whether the proposal can proceed to public exhibition and further assessment.

“The DPHI will be asked to consult with Crown Lands with respect to unresolved Native Title and Aboriginal Land Claim proceedings, to determine whether this

CHAMBER DIVISION

FROM Page 1

his Deputy to expire at the end of the meeting, arguing that it had the potential to detract from “Council’s focus on its core strategic and operational priorities.”

Under the term of former Mayor Peta Pinson, Cr Lipovac had raised the motion that led to Cr Roberts being voted out of the Deputy Mayor’s position mid-term and replaced by Cr Rachel Sheppard.

Six months later, when the numbers had shifted, Cr Pinson used her casting vote

to also end Cr Sheppard’s term early by abolishing the role.

The position of Deputy Mayor was reinstated at the start of the current Council term, with Cr Edwards in the chair for a year, followed by Cr Lipovac.

However, the death of Cr Lisa Intemann and the approved absence of Cr Sheppard last week, led to more early shuffling of the deck chairs.

The Mayor said his motion to abolish the role - again - was not directed “at any individual office-

holder”. He also said the Council retained the right to reinstate the position.

Crs Lipovac, Edwards and Hamish Tubman voted against the motion, but with the balance of support in the Mayor’s favour, the motion was passed 4-3.

Cr Lipovac later said he felt the vote was punishment for his opinions and for speaking out in a personal capacity.

Similarly, Council’s Climate Change Response Policy made a reappearance.

In just a matter of years, Council’s climate

q A concept drawing of the proposed ocean pool at the northern end of Oxley Beach.

impacts progression of the Planning Proposal.

Cr Roberts said that should the NSW Government issue a Gateway Determination, Council would then undertake a formal public exhibition process in accordance with any conditions issued by the Department, including consultation with relevant government agencies, stakeholders and the broader community.

“Council also resolved to request that DPHI remain the planning authority for determining the proposal due to Council’s potential future ownership and financial involvement in the project.

“If supported by DPHI, the request would mean that the final decision on amending the LEP at the end of the process would be made by the NSW Minister for Planning, Housing and Infrastructure or a delegated representative.”

Following are responses provided to News Of The Area by the committee for the Port Macquarie Ocean Pool, and Ken Blacker, a founding member of the Protect Oxley Beach Community Group.

Port Macquarie Ocean Pool Committee

“The Ocean Pool Committee is very pleased with the result of the vote. It shows the Councillors recognise the significant community support and the benefits this project could bring to Port Macquarie.

change policies have been supported, rescinded, reinstated and now repealed.

Cr Mark Hornshaw’s motion last week, seconded by Cr Maltman, argued for removing the policy.

“There are things that Council must do and things that it may do, but one thing Council cannot do, despite any imaginings to the contrary, is change the climate of the globe,” he said.

“Nor can we change the climate in our local area. To pretend we can is sheer hubris.”

Echoing the Mayor’s comments from earlier this year that Council should

“We would like to thank those who showed their support. This result wouldn’t have been possible without them.

“We aren’t getting too far ahead of ourselves at the moment as there are still several more major planning steps to get through before the Ocean Pool is given final approval but, for now, we are moving in the right direction.

“In terms of the claim made regarding the Birpai Aboriginal Land Council withdrawing its support; the Birpai Land Council was engaged and consulted with extensively during both our Aboriginal Culture Heritage Assessment and Native Title process.

“There are strict Australian Standards that dictate these requirements, including what parties must be consulted and how, and we have done everything by the book to gain the necessary approvals.

“We will be reaching out to the Birpai Land Council in the next few days, and we extend the offer for consultation to any Aboriginal parties who want to be involved in the project.

Ken Blacker, Protect Oxley Beach Community Group

“We are a community group who are not funded by, [or] have any links, politically.

“We are obviously disappointed with the Council's decision.

focus on “rates, roads and rubbish”, and citing the speeches of three people who addressed the Public Forum last Monday, he said the policy was part of a “broader ideological movement” and argued that Council should remain politically neutral.

Cr Edwards spoke against the motion, saying the repeal is "poor process and not what we usually do".

Both she and Cr Tubman asked for the proposal to repeal the policy to be placed on public exhibition for community feedback.

Their suggested amendment was supported by Cr Lipovac who

“Handing it through to the Gateway or State Government is a cop-out, whereas they could have not allowed it or sent it to the regional panel, which is the best political avenue to go through.

“We will have to meet to discuss the proposal - we understand it’s going to be an enduring battle, and I think when we look at the Gateway proposal, we must move to a level beyond local government.

“We need to look at state legislation and the processes there.

“We know recently that the local Birpai community, the Lands Council, has rescinded its consent to allow the development of Oxley Beach.

“So that has implications at a Federal Court level and could be a major issue for the project moving forward.

“We have to look at a number of things - still garnishing community support and opposition to the project.

“At the Gateway will be a viewing, at some point, of the new proposal that comes out to feed into that.

“[If] the proposal comes back from the Gateway to Council for potential DA submission or application, we will be looking… at some of the legal aspects, not just Council motions.”

questioned why Council didn’t want to take advantage of the “buckets of money” available to manage climate and weather-related events.

“This Council is not in a position to knock back funding,” he said.

The amendment was defeated 4-3, with the Mayor and councillors Maltman and Kirkman voting in support of Cr Hornshaw’s substantive motion.

The repeal came into effect immediately. It means Council’s standalone climate response framework is no longer in force.

Sick of the rain? Head to the riverbanks and breakwalls

I DON’T know about you, but I am absolutely sick of this rain.

The rivers have dirtied right up, the swell has been relentless, and we've seen plenty of erosion along the coastline. To give you an idea, water levels in Lake Cathie have jumped up by over 400mm in just two weeks.

The Camden Haven has been busy with luderick fishing action.

Anglers are reporting fantastic catches around the breakwalls, with many easily reaching their bag limits.

Green weed, cabbage, and weed flies are proving highly effective, and encouragingly, the fish are biting on both high and low tides.

Bream fishing also remains productive throughout the day and night.

After dark, strip baits and mullet gut are the top choices, while soft plastic vibes continue to do well for lure fishers. Rock fishing enthusiasts targeting drummer can anticipate consistent catches, just look for rocky ledges with minimal sand disturbance and maintain a steady burley trail.

Meanwhile, morning and evening sessions are yielding good-sized bream, with tailor strips being the preferred bait. The weather hasn't allowed a lot of anglers to head to sea, but I expect once the weather settles down we should see snapper bite closer to shore as they always seem to like to head closer in after a bit of swell.

The Hastings River continues to be a prime location for flathead, with reports of great catches throughout its entire length.

q Water levels in Lake Cathie have jumped up by over 400mm in just two weeks. Photo: PHMC.

Luderick fishing has also picked up at the breakwalls, with some impressive fish around the one-kilogram mark landed this week.

Bream are active near the walls and further upstream, with the evening hours proving most fruitful.

While the truly massive mulloway might still be elusive, plenty of fish around the metre mark have been landed near the Coal Wharf and along the breakwalls.

Rock fishers are also enjoying success, with tailor reported at almost all headlands.

While most of these fish are on the smaller side, anglers venturing further south have landed some impressive tailor exceeding two kilograms.

Drummer catches remain consistent, with the Lighthouse boasting excellent numbers and action increasing around the various local ledges.

Finally, the Macleay River is proving to be another fishing hotspot.

The breakwalls have yielded mangrove jack, bream, and flathead this week, providing exciting action for both local and visiting anglers.

The weather hasn't allowed a lot of anglers to head to sea, with the bar providing some challenging and dangerous conditions.

Looking at the long term forecast we should see some improvement in the weather around the second week of June.

Rugby season resumes

AFTER taking a break for the NSW Country Championships, the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season resumed with Round 4 games played across the region.

The Port Macquarie Pirates continued their unbeaten start to the season, displaying dominance in a 6422 win against the Kempsey Cannonballs in Crescent Head.

The Grafton Redmen recorded their first win of the season, defeating the

Hastings Valley Vikings by 31-26 in Port Macquarie.

Coffs Harbour Snappers women had a resounding 34-5 victory in their local derby against the SCU Marlins.

Round 5

The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season continues this weekend with Round 5 games.

The Coffs Harbour Snappers travel to take on the Port Macquarie Pirates in their top of the ladder clash and grand final rematch.

SCU Marlins reserves

are at home against the Hastings Valley Vikings, and the Grafton Redmen host the Kempsey Cannonballs in first grade.

First grade ladder

1.Coffs Harbour Snappers. 15 points. 3 wins. 0 losses. Points differential (p.d): 79. 2.Port Macquarie Pirates. 14 points. 3 wins. 0 losses. (p.d): 47. 3.Grafton Redmen. 9 points. 1 win. 2 losses. (p.d): -3. 4.Hastings Valley Vikings. 8 points. 1 win. 3 losses. (p.d): -41. 5.Kempsey Cannonballs. 3 points. 0 wins. 3 losses. (p.d): -82.

Friday Afternoon Golf Social Golf

FRIDAY 22 MAY 2026

Weather: Just missed the Wet, B/eaut weather on the Golf Course 160C. Number of Players: 11 playing on the Front 9 holes.

Winner: Ken Gallie Nett 33 was on 8, now on 16?

2nd: Bob Lineham Nett 36

3rd: Mick Hourigan Nett 37

4th: Don Gilson Nett 39

5th: Terry Doherty Nett 39

6th: Bill Wagner Nett 39Good One Girlfriend NTP 4th Hole Second Shot: Ken Gallie NTP 9th Hole Second Shot: Ken Gallie - Great Shot In Raffle Winner: Terry Doherty

Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club

PORT Macquarie Maroro

Outrigger Canoe Club travelled to Coffs Harbour for the National Marathon Championships. The regatta ran from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May.

We’re happy to report our strong participation and good results.

All our races were short course (10 kms).

Maybe next year we’ll have some entries in the long course which is 18km.

Nic and Paul competed on Friday in the OC2.

They unfortunately huli’d i.e. capsized and they

did not finish. Conditions were not easy because of a high swell.

On Saturday we had 2 Mixed OC6 (6 people canoe) teams.

The results there were the following.

Golden Masters (older than 60) came 8th out of 10.

And Masters (older than 40) came 4th out of 7.

Sunday we had two teams.

The men came 4th out of 5.

They were only 12 seconds behind 3rd.

However the women did better - 2nd!

This is in their division.

They came 2nd out of 6.

A podium finish! At the Nationals!

We were very excited. Spoiler: I was not in that boat. But over the moon nevertheless.

The weather wasn’t as bad as was forecast. Thank you weather gods.

We did get thoroughly rained on and so completely wet on Saturday. But not cold because of 23 degree temperatures and high humidity. The rain held off on Sunday. Coffs Harbour club were very organised. Thank you to our committee and coaches and car pooling. We look forward to continuing to get out onto the water over the winter.

Our club, Port Macquarie Maroro Ourtrigger Canoe Club, is always on the look out for new members.

The Come and Try arrangement means you can have a go with us in social paddling on Sundays.. If you’re interested please come and find us at the Marina in Port Macquarie.

For Come-and-try, be there on a Sunday at 7.40am.

Dress code is to be prepared to get wet.

Wauchope Monday Mixed Bowls

25.5.26

THERE were five busy rinks playing Bowls on Monday afternoon. It was a slow start as rain sent all players in to seek shelter after half a dozen ends. People discovered that they had umbrellas, rarely used on the green. But all’s well that ends well with games coming to fruition without any further rain.

The Winning team was Jenny Caller and Brian Orr

on rink 2 with Runners Up on rink 5 being Pam Dures, Ken Webb and Gunnar Furhmann. Lucky Losers were Martin Greenfield and Fred deWarrd on rink 2 also. Jenny and Brian had a convincing win and deserved to be pulled out of the hat – actually roll of the artificial dice on the mobile phone.

Once again the Jackpot rolls over until next week when the jackpot range will be halved as the pot grows. There should be a fresh lot

of chocolates as well in a fortnight as Gunnar claimed the last one, even though he was a skip! I hope Ken Webb’s wife checks his pockets for chlorates before doing the washing as he collected quite a few!

The East Wauchopean Col was first drawn out for the raffle followed by David (twice), Faye, Gina, Fred and Mickle. So the Port Macquarie car was awash with goodies as they drove back across the railway line on Monday evening.

Wauchope Women's Bowling Club

CLUB Consistency games continued on 17th May with Sara Jones 151 defeating Clare Everson 126

On the 20th May 2026 Fay Paine 150 defeated Enid Brooker 110

Kath Sweeney 152 defeated Pat Coombes 138 Glenda Elford 152 defeated Julie Samuelsson 106

On the 21st May 2026 the Wauchope Womens Bowling Club celebrated its 74th birthday with a birthday cake and refreshments supplied by the club. Wauchope is the 2nd oldest club in the region.

The results of the consistency game were Sue Petterson 151 defeated Jenny Wooster 59.

The lucky winners on the fan of the cards were social game Kath Sweeney and Joan Copp.

The lucky losers were Enid Brooker and marker Julie Samuelsson

The jackpot no 10 was Teresa Carney Round 1 of the Championship Fours was played with the following result

Enid Brooker, Wendy Kennedy, Pat Coombes and Sally Webber defeated Patricia Fletcher, Jenny Wooster, Julie Samuelsson and Fay Paine

On Saturday 23rd May 2026 Consistency games continued with Kath Sweeney 151 defeating Sue Petterson 129.

Glenda Elford 153 defeated Sarah Jones 77.

The lucky winners on the fan of the cards were Kath Sweeney marker Lil Allen.

The lucky losers on the fan of the cards Sue Petterson marker Lil Allen.

The jackpot No 56 Sally Webber who didn’t collect because she was not playing.

The raffle prizes were picked up by Sarah Jones, Lil Allen, Sally Webber and Marie Aitken.

q Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club Women's Team.

Dorin's Drawings

OPINION & LETTERS

On the Couch

Verse

Stargazing

ON SUNDAY 31 May, the night sky delivers one of its rarest little tricks, a “Blue Moon.”

The name sounds magical, mysterious, even slightly impossible. After all, the Moon certainly won’t turn blue.

But for centuries people treated unusual moons as signs that something strange was happening overhead. And sometimes, they were terrified of them.

A Blue Moon is the second Full Moon to occur in a single calendar month — a cosmic timing accident that only happens every couple of years.

The phrase itself is wonderfully

DEAR

I am aware that during meetings, staff members appearing via Zoom are more insightful and intellectually engaged. I don't understand the disparity. When they appear in person, they seem very different. Should I move all meetings to Zoom?

I remember the good old days of staff meetings.

The whole purpose of the Monday morning meeting was to act as a two-hour transition between a weekend full of cheese platters and sparkling wine and languid hours in the outdoor spa, to the cold hard slap of 30 people in ill-fitting polyester, non-

Blue Moon

old.

One early meaning described something absurd or impossible, which is where we get the expression “once in a blue moon.”

But there have actually been times when the Moon really did appear blue.

After the massive volcanic eruption of Krakatoa in 1883, ash and dust spread high through Earth’s atmosphere. People around the world reported seeing eerie blue and green moons for years afterwards.

Similar effects followed huge bushfires and volcanic eruptions in modern times.

Imagine stepping outside at night and seeing the Moon glowing pale blue through smoky skies. No wonder ancient people thought the heavens were angry.

For thousands of years, strange moons stirred fear and

superstition.

Medieval Europeans saw unusual lunar events as warnings from God. Sailors feared odd moons before storms. Farmers believed crops planted under certain moons would fail.

In some cultures, an extra Full Moon upset religious calendars and seasonal festivals that depended on the lunar cycle.

And to be fair, the Moon does affect Earth in dramatic ways.

Its gravity controls ocean tides, stabilises Earth’s wobble, and may even have helped life evolve here in the first place.

Without the Moon, Earth would be a far more chaotic world.

A Full Moon already has a powerful hold on human imagination.

Police and emergency workers have long joked about strange behaviour during full moons.

NEWS

ergonomic chairs, hands fused to keyboards, and seven monitoring reports due by 5pm.

Back then, everyone knew where they stood in a staff meeting, and a CEO knew how to manage them.

Staff members included the socially-awkward IT guy who told inappropriate jokes, the bored 20-something who was nursing a hangover, the woman who carried the same piece of paper around for five years - with no one really knowing how she came to be in the office - the chain-smoking supervisor agitated by flickering fluorescent lights, and so on.

It was a given as to who was going to offer purposeful responses and who was going to vague out and draw plans for a new outdoor table on the back of their agenda sheet.

Hence, the meeting could take place in a constructive, yet predictable manner.

Now, with meetings largely online, nothing is as it seems.

Most of the types listed above will have Chat GPT or its equivalent open, and they will be able to multiskill, planning a trip to conquer the Camino de Santiago while throwing in the occasional insight that makes them appear

Horror movies adore them.

Ancient legends linked them to werewolves, madness, and restless spirits.

Even the word “lunatic” comes from Luna, the Roman Moon goddess, because people once genuinely believed moonlight affected the mind.

And perhaps the most startling fact of all? The Moon is slowly drifting away from Earth every year, about 3.8 centimetres annually, roughly the speed your fingernails grow.

Billions of years ago it appeared much larger in our sky than it does now.

On Blue Moon night though, most people won’t think about orbital mechanics or ancient folklore.

They’ll simply look up and notice the Moon hanging there — bright, oversized, and strangely captivating.

Astronomers love Full Moons despite the glare they create.

The Moon’s craters,

ready for a promotion.

You'll know though, Kevin, it isn't that hard to work out.

If, for example, middlemanagement Roger has gone from saying things like “Get Mary to do it or I'm going on stress leave”, to “The current process is causing delays because approvals are duplicated across two teams. I think we should centralise signoff to one manager. There is a significant degree of operational and psychological pressure associated with this matter,” then it is clear your staff members have transitioned to using AI for anything requiring a modicum of analysis.

There is only one way around this.

You either need to accept that the average workforce is soon going to resemble a crew of postlobotomy Randle McMurphys (i.e. the guy from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest) or insist on inperson, device-free meetings, so workplaces recognise genuine strengths and diverse talents and reward real thoughts not fast fingers.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

mountains, and ancient lava plains become strikingly visible through binoculars.

That pale face staring down at humanity has watched every civilisation rise and fall in history. And on Sunday 31 May, it will do it again.

Some people will search social media for wild predictions and cosmic warnings.

Others will quietly step outside into the cool night air, glance upward, and feel the same sense of awe humans have carried for thousands of years.

The Blue Moon may not actually be blue, but it remains one of the sky’s most beautiful illusions.

Wanna see it all blue through large telescopes?

My group ‘Mid North Coast Astronomy ‘will be holding a special FREE ‘Blue Moon’ family viewing night that night from sundown at Rocks Ferry Reserve, Wauchope. All are welcome. Enquiries 0400 636 363 or via davidreneke. com.

Students impress in lunchtime concert

ST AGNES’ Parish Secondary Schools (SAPSS) held a free lunchtime concert on the mezzanine at The Glasshouse on Monday 25 May.

There was something for everyone as students from both MacKillop and St Joseph’s Regional Colleges performed solo and choral pieces.

Rob Denham, SAPSS music ensembles manager, welcomed the audience of parents and community

members, thanking them for "warmly supporting students in a public space which gives them valuable experience as performers”.

The vocal concert began with The Collective, accompanied by Mr Denham.

The Pop Choir, conducted by Samantha Adams, followed with familiar contemporary pieces including “Fly Away” by Tones and I.

HSC student Anneque Moad shared her haunting version of “Spider’s Web” with confidence and poise.

Year 11 student Lani Warren performed a vocal and guitar medley of Neil Young and Jeff Buckley songs.

Scarlet Brooke, also in Year 11, sang Chappell Roan’s “The Subway.”

Year 10 students Peyton Berry and Lucy Graham sang

rousing songs by Tracey Chapman and Norah Jones.

The concert concluded with the SAPSS vocal ensemble and their polished

performance of "Defying Gravity” from the musical “Wicked”.

The next gig in June will feature bands from SAPSS.

Nahum 1:7 "The Lord is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him."

SUDOKU

PORT MACQUARIE

WILLIAMS

Michele Yvonne

24th May 2026. Late of Lake Cathie.

Dearly loved and adored wife of Geoffrey (dec). Loving mother to Adam and Nathan. Mother-in-law to Bianca. Much loved Mumma to Tallin, Jaiah and Noah. Aged 74 years

The Relatives and Friends of Michele are respectfully invited to attend a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate her life to be held Thursday 4th June 2026 in the Chapel of Innes Gardens Memorial Park Crematorium, 21 Philip Charley Drive, Port Macquarie, commencing at 10am.

MARK G HAMMOND FUNERAL SERVICES

67a Bold Street

Laurieton, NSW 2443

Accredited Member FDA of NSW (02) 6559 5999

us

ads@newsofthearea.com.au

Apoio - Plan Management & Support

Coordination

Area: Port Macquarie based, service Australia wide Ph: 1300 136 999

Email: admin@hunterpodiatry.com.au

Services: Podiatry

Hunter Podiatry Services

Address: 2/3 George Road, Salamander Bay Ph: 1800 693 338

Email: admin@hunterpodiatry.com.au

Services: Podiatry

My Choice Psychology & Allied Health

Area: Raymond Terrace Ph: 0415 256 186

Email: mychoicecommunity@gmail.com

Services: Psychology and Allied Health

Area: Port Stephens, Myall Coast & Newcastle

Ph: 0411 476 994

Email: sblackett2000@gmail.com

Services: Home care

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK

To place a classified ad, call 4981 8882 between 9am - 3pm

The classified deadline is 12pm Wednesdays.

MALTESE Shih Tzu puppies. 1M & 1F. MC# 991003003438500 & 991003003438663. BIN# B000616552

Located Port Stephens Ph/Txt 0474 378 452.

OF THE AREA

Call for Classifieds (02) 4981 8882 PORT MACQUARIE

Sale

30FT fold-out container home, 2 bdr, bathroom kitchen, brand new $50,000 ono. Ph 0401 035 674 NHPMRUS51126 3 boat fuel tanks, 25ltrs $50 the lot. Ph 0408 994 486 F010526

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

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

BEDSTICK $40. Ph 0427 951 211

BEER brewing kit complete plus 250 bottles. $99. 6559 6656 F130226 SOLD

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

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

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

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

BUFFET, cream $45 Ph 0422 179 343

CRYSTAL vase, 30cm high, $25. Ph 0401 226 410 F060326

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

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

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

LARGE cream buffet $25. 0402 164 639

LAWNMOWER, $95 0478 926 676

LEAD Cystal decanter (large) $30 0447 122 829

LEAD flashing, 14kg $95. Ph 0412 004 970.

DOONA for queen bed, hypo-allergenic microfibre quilt very warm new. Good value at $60. Ph 0488 979 484

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

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

FILING cabinet, light colour, inc files. 3 drawers 48cm (w) x 60cm (d) x 100cm (h) GC. $80. Ph 6582 5885

FISHING Rod - 3 piece

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

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

FISHING rod and reel $90. Ph 0428 489 689

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

GARDEN leaf blower petrol engine $45 6585 7393 F191225

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

BACKPACK

Kathmandu, medium size, pink. As new. $20 Ph 0401 031 833

BANJO Paterson Collected Works Hardcover, as new $10 Also paperback $5, Ph 0447 445 319 F230126

BAR stools x 6 round upholstered seats, dark wood turned legs. $95 Ph 0415 858 981

For Sale

OCCASIONAL side table w/glass top, cream $30. Ph 0402 164 639

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

OIL heater on wheels 1500watt, DeLonghi Cash only. $30. Ph 0408 446 129

OMEGA Smeg microwave & convection grill oven 30lt exc. cond $99. Ph 0403 800 775 F080526CHPM

OUTDOOR setting large glass tabletop with 6 chairs. $50. Ph 0457 800 799 F080526

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

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

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

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

MASPORT garden gobbler for shredding and chipping. 3.02hp 240v, $90. Ph 6582 0179 F240426

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

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

Ph

TALLBOY, 5

164 639

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

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

PICNIC backpack, new inc plates etc for 4. $20 Ph 0458 659 427 F240426

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

RADIATOR, 10 fin. $20 Ph 0402 164 639 F240426

612mm D 0419 226 048

blanket queen size, caramel colour ribbon binding. $80 0418 650 443 F170426 COMMEMORATION plate - 1956 Melbourne Olympics good condition $50. Ph 6582 1019

2683

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

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

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

CORELLE Stoneware Baking Dish, 22cm x 33cm $40.

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

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

LADDER, alum. Baileys 150kg 3.6 - 6.2 $165 0492 831 265 e290526

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

MOBILITY walker

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

RUSTIC corrugated iron sheets, 2.4m long $12 ea. 0427 292 772

POLY tarps, grey 1800mm x 2400mm top condition. 3 for $25 or $10 each. Ph 0481 046 477 To place a CLASSIFIED AD phone 02 4981 8882

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

NESPRESSO coffee capsule machine with Podista milk frother as new cond. $99 Ph 0481 046 477 LEATHER 3 seat sofa as new. Moving so must sell. $300 ono. Ph 0449 616 134 SEWING machine Brother J17S,

JAYCO Journey Outback poptop 13ft, 2023 with Dometic RUC5 compressor fridge, cover and various extras. Suit new buyer. Reg. to Sept 2026. $35,000 offers considered. TT04CE 0432 584 960

Caravans
SWIVEL chair, leather cream w/black frame $25.
0402
WOOL
NDIS Providers
Support By Sam

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

SILENT WITNESS

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Crime doesn’t take a day off – not even for the nuptials of lovebirds Jack Hodgson and Nikki Alexander (David Caves and Emilia Fox, both pictured) in this two-part season 28 finale. However, the loved-up professionals are as dedicated to the job as they are each other. So as they investigate a mass shooting at a London restaurant, they also discuss their wedding plans, dress choices and Jack’s search for a best man. It’s a delicate dichotomy that demonstrates how the couple’s relationship serves as a vital sanctuary from the horrors they see at work every day.

FRIDAY, May 29

TV (2)

SUNDAY SHARK!

NBN, 7pm

With this daring entry, reality TV has officially jumped the shark. Four-time Olympic gold medallist Ariarne Titmus (pictured), Gold Logie winners Scott Cam and Lynne McGranger, NRL legend Sam Thaiday, actor Matt Nable and influencer Tammy Hembrow are about to come faceto-face with one of the ocean’s greatest predators. With the aim of demystifying these oftenmisunderstood creatures, the celebrities will be guided by former Australian navy diver and shark attack survivor Paul de Gelder, alongside researcher and photographer Annie Guttridge. Together, they will attempt a series of escalating challenges, working towards their goal: swimming outside a cage with tiger sharks.

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (R) 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (R) 1.45 Bad Company. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.00 Legacy List. (PGa, R) 11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Land Wars. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Advice for the home gardener.

8.30 Shetland. (Mv) The search is on for Ian, as Calder and Tosh dig into Annie and Bergen’s relationship.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Paul Merton:

Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) An academic uncovers a conspiracy while helping investigate a murder inside the Louvre. Tom Hanks,

TUESDAY SHAUN MICALLEF’S GOING FOR BROKE

Shaun Micallef (pictured) has uncovered several sobering truths behind the glitzy facade of the gambling industry in this insightful docuseries, but Tuesday’s conclusion ups the ante. Visiting a Wollongong family, the comedian finds out if the odds are already stacked against the next generation of Australians, for whom sports matches seem to go hand in hand with advertising and betting. He also spends a baffling afternoon with poker machine influencer Luca Kante and his fans, before heading to Parliament House in Canberra for a chat with independent senator and former Wallabies captain David Pocock about the Murphy Report and gambling For support, call Gambler’s Help (1800 858 858).

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 13. Cronulla Sharks v Manly Sea Eagles. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple must bring their house up to date.

6.00

SATURDAY, May 30

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kath’s first husband moves back in.

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 Death In Paradise. (Mv) A star football player is found dead.

8.30 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+av) When six people are slaughtered by a gunman, Nikki and Jack must find the shooter.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mlv, R) Bergerac’s career is on the line as the case gets personal. 11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGaw)

8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (Mn, R) 9.25 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)

10.20 The Wonders Of Europe. (Mv, R)

11.20 Snowpiercer. (Mv, R)

2.05 Matched. (PG, R)

3.50 My Unique B&B. (PG, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (PG) Shane Jacobson buys a rundown country pub sight unseen and attempts to bring it back to life.

8.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000, Mav, R)

A successful Roman general seeks revenge after he is betrayed and his family is murdered by the emperor’s heir. Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen.

11.40 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv, R)

12.40 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Dune. (2021, Mav, R) A young nobleman and his family accept stewardship over a dangerous planet. Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson.

10.30 MOVIE: Species. (1995, MA15+hlsv, R) Scientists chase a half-alien girl. Natasha Henstridge, Ben Kingsley.

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

1.30 Soccer. UEFA Champions League. Final. Paris Saint-Germain v Arsenal.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (R) A biker looks for a new sidekick.

7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (Return, PGl) The team helps a family of six that is bursting at the seams in a two-bedroom house.

9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mad, R) NSW Ambulance crews race to a call for a slashed throat, perform life-saving CPR on teens, treat a suspected drug overdose at a brothel and rush to a potential stroke at a building site. 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGav, R)

SUNDAY, May 31

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Ian Thorpe. (Final, PGa)

8.15 Bad Company. (Final, Ml) Opening Night of Le Paysan... arrives.

8.40 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv) Bergerac must negotiate for his life and solve the murder.

9.40 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) A star football player is found dead.

10.40 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+av, R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Movin’ To The Country. (R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Morning

Programs. 7.10 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 9.10 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 10.40 Haywire. (2011, M) 12.20pm Blackout Love. (2021, M, Italian) 2.10 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 3.50 Discovering Film. 4.40 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 6.15 Trinity Is Still My Name. (1971, PG) 8.30 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, M) 10.30 Lonesome. (2022, MA15+) 12.20am Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Hunt For The Last Nazis. (Malv) 9.00 Mysteries Of Stonehenge. (Mav, R)

10.50 Pan Am: Rise And Fall Of An Aviation Icon. (PG, R)

11.50 The Fastest Bicycle. (Ml)

1.40 Matched. (R)

3.25 U-96, The True Story Of Das Boot. (PGaln, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

The Frontier. 6.30 Abandoned Engineering. 8.20 Travel Man. 8.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. Stage 2. 11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 21. 3.25am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

(32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 7.10 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 8.45 Trinity Is Still My Name. (1971, PG) 11.00 The Tracker. (2002, M) 12.50pm With Or Without You. (2021, M, Italian) 2.55 The Unknown Country. (2022, PG) 4.30 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 6.30 Notorious. (1946, PG) 8.30 100 Yards. (2023, M, Mandarin) 10.30 Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 12.10am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls, R)

8.10 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.10 How To Poison Your Husband. (Ma, R) Details the shocking crimes of Heather Mook. 10.45 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Mav, R)

12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R) 1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Shark! (Premiere, PGal)

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.40 9News Late.

10.10 The First 48: What About Me/Last Round. (Mal, R) 11.10 American Ripper. (Mav) 12.00 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

Adam. (2022, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Locker. (2025, M) Midnight Gotham. 12.50 Arrow. 2.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester City v Aston Villa. Replay. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Bubble’s

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

MONDAY, June 1

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, June 2

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)

8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (PG, R) 9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav) 12.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+s, R)

2.45 My Unique B&B. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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

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

8.40 9-1-1. (Mav)

The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6am The Movie

Show. 7.10 Notorious. (1946, PG) 9.10 Discovering Film. 10.00 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, M) Noon 100 Yards. (2023, M, Mandarin) 2.05 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 3.35 Trinity Is Still My Name. (1971, PG) 5.50 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 7.40 Hope Springs. (2012, M) 9.30 Cats. (2019, PG) 11.35 Let Them All Talk. (2020, M) 1.40am

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R)

11.05 The Negotiator. (MA15+av)

11.55 Divided We Stand. (Mal, R)

2.40 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (Ma) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

The Agenda Setters. 11.15 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mamv, R)

Harry’s Practice. (R)

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

6.00

WEDNESDAY, June 3

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.05 Archipelago New York. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Wonders Of Volcanoes With Dara Ó Briain. (PGa, R)

9.20 The Audacity. (MA15+a)

10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+av)

12.30 Golden Boy. (Mal, R)

1.25 Classified. (Mlv, R)

3.05 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Steven Universe. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.30 Adventure Time. 10.55 Late Programs.

VICELAND (31)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am My Uncle

Jens. (2025, M, Norwegian) 7.50 Victoria & Abdul. (2017) 10.00 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) Noon Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.00 Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 3.55 Cats. (2019, PG) 6.00 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 7.35 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 9.30 Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 11.45 Crash. (1996, MA15+) 1.35am November. (2017, MA15+, Estonian) 3.45 Late Programs.

THURSDAY,

June 4

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Gruen. (PG, R) 10.35 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 11.25 Urzila. (Final, Md, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 4.00 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (PG) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

(Final, PGa, R)

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

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.05 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (PGv, R)

11.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)

12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 San Diego: America’s Wildest City. (PGa) 11.05 Queen Victoria’s Royal Mob. (Final, Mlv, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 The Lost City Of Ramses. (PGa, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (Final, PG)

8.40 Saving Yellowstone. (Return, PG)

9.35 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Mals)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (Madl)

12.10 De Gaulle. (Mv, R)

3.05 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

10.10

Morning

3.55pm WorldWatch. 5.50

Of

6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8

8.30

UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Travel Man. 11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia Women. Stage 6. 2am Under The Banner Of Heaven. 3.10 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Hotel Salvation. (2016, PG, Hindi) 7.20 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 9.20 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 10.55 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 12.50pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.45 Victoria & Abdul. (2017) 4.50 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. (1968, PG) 7.30 An Unfinished Life. (2005, M) 9.30 Red Joan. (2018, M) 11.25 Beneath Hill 60. (2010, M) 1.40am Crash. (1996, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.

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

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (M)

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

9.30 Unfiltered. (PG) Hamish McLachlan sits down with key football stars and personalities to reveal their stories.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

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

12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Australia’s Big Backyards. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Hornby: A Model Empire. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Foyle’s War. 10.55 Late Programs.

7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Mountain Men.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Events That Changed Australia. (Mav) 8.30 NRL Origin Story. 9.35 9News Late. 10.05 To Be Advised. 11.05 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane lays down the law.

7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGadl, R) A look at badly behaved drivers.

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

10.30 Police Code Zero: Officer Under Attack. (M)

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 Brave New World. (MA15+asv)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6am Morning Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Hunter Killer. (2018, MA15+) 10.50 Seinfeld. 11.50 The 100. 12.40am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.40 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 3.00 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Late Programs.

7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Hot Pursuit. (2015, M) 10.20 Seinfeld. 11.20 Rugby Heaven. 12.20am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.20 The Real Housewives Of Durban. (Final) 2.20 9Honey Hacks. 2.35

PORT MACQUARIE

Friday, 29 May 2026

Local Community News ~ Proudly Independent

Wins for Magpies

Port Macquarie Panthers

Rock and Roll Dance Club

Port Macquarie Seniors Hall, 42 Munster St Every Thursday. Doors open 6.30pm

All welcome-come along and join the fun LEARN TO

A TRIP to Woolgoolga failed to slow down the Magpies in Round 7 of the AFL North Coast senior season, with two strong wins to close out the Indigenous Round.

The Port Macquarie senior women (31) defeated the Northern Beaches Blues (26) at Wiigulga Sports Complex on Saturday. Their performance was described as tough and composed, with the club sharing that they “absorbed pressure late and finished the job with real grit”.

A dominant fourth quarter from the senior men also saw the Port Magpies (125) defeat the Northern Beaches Blues (23).

The cream has also risen to the top after the first five rounds of the AFL North Coast junior season.

Magpies remain undefeated to lead the way in the Youth Girls 17s competition.

The Sawtell/ Toormina Saints also remain undefeated at the top of the Under 16s Boys ladder.

The Northern Beaches Blues Youth Girls 15s have also made an undefeated start to the season.

The Port Macquarie Swoopers and Lower Clarence Suns both remain undefeated at the top of the Under 14s Mixed competition.

The Northern Beaches Blues lead the way in the Youth Girls 13s, with an undefeated start to their premiership defence.

Sawtell/Toormina Saints (Black) remain undefeated in the Under 12s Mixed competition.

The AFL North Coast junior season is

q The Port Magpies senior women won the Indigenous Round at Woolgoolga. Photo: Port Magpies.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Port Macquarie News Of The Area 29 MAY 2026 by News Of The Area - Issuu