q Volunteers Ing, Hannah and Katherine with Take 3 co-founder Tim Silverwood at Birubi Beach.
Government, it is estimated that by 2050, 99 percent of sea birds will
have ingested plastic and the amount of plastic in our oceans will outweigh fish.
“It is clear every piece of plastic in the environment poses a risk to wildlife and the health and safety of all
of us,” Take 3 co-founder Tim Silverwood told News Of The Area.
“So, every time we get out or remove plastic it is a wonderful outcome.”
A spokesperson for Port
Stephens Council highlighted the benefits of the event.
“By collaborating, we are highlighting the shared responsibility of protecting wildlife and ecosystems from the impacts of plastic
pollution,” they said. “The partnership [also] enables the National Parks team to provide the community with information on the cultural and environmental significance of these sensitive coastal areas.”
Sale of Medowie Social finalised
PORT Stephens Council has finalised the sale of the Medowie Social facility, with the venue now under private ownership.
The sale of the property at 36A Ferodale Road, Medowie was completed on 24 February.
According to Council, proceeds will be reinvested back into the local community.
“The sale proceeds will be restricted to support the Medowie community both now and in the future,” Council said in a statement.
“The finalisation of the sale marks a new chapter for
the venue.”
Opened in 2020, the facility has operated as a multipurpose sports and community centre.
The venue includes a commercial kitchen and bar, a seating area for 200 patrons, two function rooms for an additional 160 patrons, one office, two meeting rooms and a bowling green.
In 2025, approval was received for the venue to be converted into a registered club.
The facility was listed for sale in early 2025.
CLARIFICATION
NEWS Of The Area wishes to clarify information printed in our 26 February Edition.
In a Letter to the Editor, No Offshore Turbines Port Stephens secretary Leonie Hamilton described Salamander Bay’s Kathy Brown as the secretary of Port Stephens Greens. While Ms Brown is the former secretary of the Port Stephens Greens, she is not currently an office bearer.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE APPLICATIONS LODGED BETWEEN 15/02/2026 AND 22/02/2026 Information is correct at time of printing. For up-to-date information visit Council’s DA Tracker at datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au or contact us on 4988 0255.
41A
5
6
1A Heritage Ave 16-2019-259-2
S4.55(1A) Modification –amend staging, 1 into 2 lot Torrens Title (1 dwelling retained) and multi-dwelling housing (4 dwellings)
2A Ballat Cl 16-2026-77-1 Swimming pool and associated safety barriers
34 South St 16-2026-76-1 Extension to existing shed
49 Yale Cres 16-2026-71-1 Single storey dwelling
BAY
2 Lamandra Cres 16-2026-79-1 Patio ADDRESS
BAY 72 Horace St 16-2025-731-2
S4.55(1A) Modification to alterations/additions to 2 storey dwelling – design changes to pool cabana
S4.55(1A) Modification to swim spa, retaining walls – amend Condition
Seniors
Festival events
Photo: Megann Evans
q The Medowie Social facility on Ferodale Road.
Nelson Bay mum turns police experience into life-saving lessons
FROM Page 1
confidence to stay safe.
After a 12-year career in policing, including two years as a detective with the Transit Crime Investigation Team working in sexual offences, Ms Godfrey saw first-hand the devastating and longlasting trauma experienced by assault victims.
Many, she says, were blindsided.
“Some were male, however most were young women who had no idea these dangers existed,” she said.
“They were completely shocked when it happened to them.”
When her family
relocated interstate in 2022, Ms Godfrey left the force but not the sense of responsibility that had shaped her career.
Determined to share the knowledge she had gained, she founded “Girl Aware” in Nelson Bay, delivering selfdefence and empowerment workshops across Newcastle and Port Stephens.
As a mother of three, with a son and two daughters, her work is deeply personal.
“I often put myself in the shoes of victims and their parents,” she said.
“Knowledge is power. Being aware of dangers is the first form of self-defence, and avoiding them is the key.”
While the Newcastle and Port Stephens region
is widely regarded as safe, she warns that risks can exist anywhere at home, school or work, and are often committed by someone known to the victim.
Her “Girl Aware” program focuses on awareness, instinct and voice.
Participants learn to recognise red flags, trust their gut and project confidence.
By the end of each workshop, shy beginnings often transform into highfives, laughter and a surge of questions.
“It’s incredible to watch.
“When girls realise they have a voice and the ability to protect themselves, everything shifts.”
Council reaffirms stance over offshore wind
By Douglas CONNOR
PORT Stephens Council has reaffirmed its position on potential offshore wind development off the Hunter coast.
At Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday 24 February, councillor Mark Watson moved a multi-faceted motion which called for a series of actions from the
Federal Government.
Council has confirmed it does not currently support an offshore wind project off Port Stephens, subject to the “completion and consideration of the detailed technical studies, further community and stakeholder engagement and progression through the legislated assessment and approval process by the Federal Government”.
Council clarified that this position is based on a desire for decision making to be informed by extensive
community consultation and the completion of “thorough and robust” impact assessments.
It will now write to Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen and Paterson MP Meryl Swanson outlining its position.
Mr Bowen announced in January that he had opened applications for research and demonstration (R&D) licences in Australia’s six offshore wind zones, including off Port Stephens.
This followed the
treatment and related Doctors’ appointments.
It is an ancillary service for when cancer patients cannot access any other reliable form of personal transport for treatments and appointments.
NELSON BAY CANCER PATIENT TRANSPORT GROUP
withdrawal of Norwegian energy company Equinor from a $10bn offshore wind project in the Hunter zone in 2025.
While a full-scale offshore wind project seems unlikely off the Hunter coast in the short term, the 1,854km2 declared zone could now be used to research and test different types of offshore renewable energy technologies.
In response, Council has called on the Australian Government to undertake “full, transparent, and properly public scoped consultation on the proposal for research and development licenses progressing”.
It has also requested a “detailed public explanation” of the scale, location, duration, infrastructure requirements and cumulative impacts of any proposed R&D activities within the zone.
Additionally, the Council is seeking formal recognition as a “key stakeholder” in any future regulatory or licensing decisions affecting its coastal waters, tourism economy, fisheries and marine
environment.
Mayor Leah Anderson and councillors Giacomo Arnott, Chris Doohan, Mark Watson and Jason Wells voted in favour of the motion, with Cr Peter Francis voting against.
Justin Page, the coordinator of the Hunter Jobs Alliance, accused councillors of “ignoring the facts” in their motion.
He particularly took aim at the idea that community consultation had not taken place over the original offshore wind zone or the R&D licences.
“In August 2025, Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen announced the start of research and demonstration activities within the zone,” Mr Page said.
“As reported by Port Stephens News Of The Area on 28 August 2025, Equinor and Oceanex Energy decided not to proceed with the Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm, and the article noted that the federal research and demonstration licence process, which councillors now claim they were unaware
of, was open for public consultation from 22 August to 3 October 2025.
“On 23 August 2026, Councillor Mark Watson shared a major media article outlining consultation timeframes on his Facebook page, which was also circulated by aligned opposition groups.
“To now claim they did not know consultation was happening is absurd.
“Councillors are jumping ahead of the process, claiming authority over matters not yet determined, while ignoring the federal consultation they were already aware of.”
Mr Page suggested that councillors should instead focus on roads, rates and rubbish rather than “grandstanding over federal processes”.
“If and when offshore wind projects ever propose transmission cables over council land, it will require detailed planning, approvals, and consultation. They should deal with it at that time,” he said.
Our services are subject to available resources.
Is a volunteer group providing the following services to our local community
NELSON BAY CANCER PATIENT TRANSPORT GROUP
• Volunteer drivers who transport patients to the Newcastle Metropolitan area for cancer treatment and related Donctor’s appointments.
This service is provided free of charge to patients and continues due to the generosity of our volunteer drivers, financial grants and donations received from the local community.
• Our services are subject to available resources.
Is a volunteer group providing the following services to our local community
• It is an ancillary service for when cancer patients cannot access any other reliable form of personal transport for treatments and appointments.
This service is provided free of charge to patients and continues to the generosity of our volunteer drivers, financial grants and donations received from the local community.
Volunteer drivers who transport patients to the Newcastle Metropolitan area for cancer treatment and related Doctors’ appointments.
Phone: 0407 252 566
Phone: 0407 252 566
Email: secretary@nbcptg.com.au
Website: www.nbcptg.com.au
It is an ancillary service for when cancer patients cannot access any other reliable form of personal transport for treatments and appointments.
Email:secretary@nbcptg.com.au www.nbcptg.com.au
q Danielle Godfrey in one of her Girl Aware self defence workshops. Photo: supplied, Danielle Godfrey.
q Taking a student through self defence strategies. Photo: supplied, Danielle Godfrey.
q Port Stephens councillor Mark Watson.
Cosette De LORENZO 0468 575 452 cosette@newsofthearea.com.au
Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au
A PROMISE made during a school leadership campaign has grown into an environmental movement at Tomaree Public School.
In 2025, Eva Wilson pledged that if elected school captain, she would launch a student-led initiative called the Litter Ninjas.
True to her word, she spent the school holidays working to earn money to fund the project herself, designing and purchasing
special Litter Ninja badges that members now wear with pride.
Each week, Eva organises rotating groups of students who take on the role of Litter Ninjas, collecting rubbish around the school grounds to help prevent it from reaching local waterways and, ultimately, the ocean.
Her inspiration came from a personal connection.
“My brother loves sea animals and told me that green turtles were recently removed from the endangered species list,” Eva said.
“I thought this was a great opportunity for the Litter Ninjas to help.
"By reducing rubbish in the ocean, we can support endangered animals and improve the environment.”
She believes every small action counts.
“Every piece of litter picked up and disposed of correctly helps,” she said. Eva has been overwhelmed by the response.
“When I gave my leadership speech in 2025, I didn’t expect many to volunteer.
“But so many students have joined, from all across the school, and are eager to make a difference.”
To strengthen the mission, students are encouraged to wear their badges proudly, volunteer regularly and make sure rubbish ends up in bins rather than in nature.
Plans are also underway to create posters for every classroom, reminding students to stay committed to protecting the planet.
What began as one captain’s campaign promise has become a powerful example of student leadership in action, proving that even small hands can make a big environmental impact.
q School Captain Eva Wilson, leading the charge against litter ending up in waterways. Photo: supplied, Tomaree Public School.
q Eva Wilson with some of her self-designed and produced Litter Ninja badges. Public School.
Construction begins on renewable energy zone
CONSTRUCTION is officially underway on the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), a project the state government says will generate enough energy to power more than all the homes in the Hunter.
REZs aim to group new wind and solar power generation and batteries into locations where it can be efficiently stored and transmitted across NSW.
The Hunter-Central Coast REZ stretches from the Upper Hunter in the north to the Central Coast in the south and includes the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens regions.
In December 2024, EnergyCo selected Ausgrid as the preferred network operator to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the network infrastructure.
Ausgrid will upgrade its electricity network in the Hunter region (between Kurri Kurri and Muswellbrook) to provide an additional one gigawatt of network transfer capacity by 2028, enabling up to 1.8GW of generation and storage projects.
Energy Minister Penny Sharpe visited Kurri Kurri last week to meet workers and see the beginning of construction.
“Upgrading this critical infrastructure is another step forward in securing clean, affordable and reliable energy for households and businesses as ageing coal-fired power stations retire,” she said.
“This project will unlock hundreds of local jobs and boost the economy in the Hunter region.
“The renewable energy sector directories open another door for local businesses to participate in the growing pipeline of energy projects across the state.”
The project is expected to create 590 jobs during construction, with a further 220 local jobs once operational.
“It is a great day when you can announce hundreds of new jobs coming to our local area,” said Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr.
“I would strongly encourage locals to make every effort to be a part of this exciting time in upgrading our electricity system network.”
EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey said the start of construction is a “major milestone for energy security in NSW”.
“We are proud that 90 percent of the ongoing jobs are expected to be filled by
Man pulled from water at Birubi
SURFERS, paramedics and the Westpac chopper came to the rescue as a man was rescued from the surf at Birubi Beach last week.
A Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to the Anna Bay beach
at around 7:30am, after reports a man in his 50s had been found unconscious in the water.
Two surfers were able to bring the male ashore and commence CPR.
Shortly after, NSW Ambulance paramedics continued treatment and were then assisted by the helicopter’s critical care medical team.
The patient was stabilised and then airlifted to the John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.
locals,” she said.
“The Hunter region has a rich history when it comes to energy in NSW, and the REZ will ensure it remains a major player in future electricity generation.”
The network infrastructure project will connect an additional 1.8 GW of new renewable generation and storage projects.
It includes:
• upgrading approximately 85km subtransmission lines
• installing 18km of new underground fibre optic communications cable
• building two new energy hubs in Muswellbrook LGA (Sandy Creek and Antiene), and
• upgrading existing substations, including the one at Kurri Kurri
The Hunter-Central Coast Network Infrastructure Project is the first REZ project to upgrade existing distribution poles and wires instead of building all new transmission lines.
Dr Helen Nugent AC, the Independent Chairman of the Ausgrid Board, said, “As Australia’s first Distribution REZ, Ausgrid is proud to lead the way in demonstrating how we can play a key role in the energy transition.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work Ausgrid has done over the past 12 months to plan this project – and importantly to carry out extensive engagement with landowners, residents and local businesses.
“We look forward to our solution providing ongoing benefits for the Hunter Region, for generations to come.”
q Energy Minister Penny Sharpe speaks in Kurri Kurri.
Anthology of local voices
By Jacie WHITFIELD
A CELEBRATION of local creativity and community storytelling took centre stage when the Raymond Terrace Writers Group launched its most recent anthology, “The Last Word.”
The group, which meets every second Sunday at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, has produced five anthologies over its history.
Each has been shaped by a simple formula: enough compelling stories and enough funds to self-publish.
The latest anthology was launched at the Raymond Terrace Library, with contributors reading selected pieces to an audience of friends, family and local supporters.
Attendees also enjoyed morning tea while meeting the writers behind the pages.
Professional coach and published author Fiona Brown served as master of ceremonies, guiding the event and helping highlight the diverse voices captured in the anthology.
Members share work inspired by writing prompts, with contributions spanning poetry to prose.
While collaboration within the group is informal, members work together in meaningful
ways, from deciding whether to proceed with publication to editing the final manuscript.
For this edition, editing was shared among members to shape a cohesive collection, while preserving each writer’s voice.
For many in the group, writing is a passion project, though some harbour ambitions of commercial publication.
The launch was both a celebration and a milestone, recognising the effort behind each
contribution and showcasing the depth of creative talent within the community.
Organisers hope the launch inspires more locals to put pen to paper and discover the power of sharing stories close to home.
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.
Bottleneck cleared at Hexham
THE long-awaited widening of the Hexham Straight is complete, clearing a bottleneck infamous across the Hunter.
Motorists can now travel on three lanes in each direction, along the full sixkilometre stretch.
The speed limit has also been increased to 80 kilometres per hour.
With all lanes now open, teams are carrying out minor finishing work across the project including landscaping and signage.
These finishing works will include upgrades to a reserve along the Hunter River, comprising upgraded parking, seating and information signage that shares the cultural heritage of the area from an Indigenous perspective.
The completed project includes new twin bridges over Ironbark Creek to support the widened roadway, upgraded and modernised traffic lights at the intersection of the bypass and Old Maitland Road, a new U-turn facility, and improved pedestrian crossings and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care.
“I’m thrilled to announce the completion of the long-awaited Hexham Straight Widening project,” said Minister for Transport Catherine King on Friday.
“This project is delivering real benefits for people in the Hunter including safer journeys and improved travel times.”
The M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and Hexham Straight Widening is one of the largest transport infrastructure commitments in the region’s history.
The Federal Government is contributing over $1.79 billion towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing $448 million.
NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the upgrade is a “game-changer” for
Have Your Say
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the broader region.
“Like so many people across the Hunter, I’ve sat in traffic at Hexham frustrated at the crawling speed and bottlenecks.
“I know firsthand how disruptive and exhausting those delays have been for commuters, families and freight operators.
“Today, that changes.
“It (the upgrade) will improve travel times, strengthen freight productivity and play a major role in keeping our region moving as it continues to grow.”
q Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison. Photo: Tim Crakanthorp FB.
CSIRO unveils $3M upgrade to energy lab
THE CSIRO has officially launched the $3 million upgrade of the Renewable Energy Integration Facility (REIF) at its Energy Centre in Newcastle.
The national science agency says the upgrade will significantly expand Australia’s capability to test, validate and commercialise technologies needed for a more sustainable, reliable and secure electricity system.
The expanded facility includes a suite of advanced capabilities, including the ability to simulate microgrids and grid faults, test inverter performance under realworld conditions and run large-scale experiments combining solar, batteries and electric vehicles.
One of its standout demonstrations is vehicle-togrid technology, which uses electric vehicles as flexible batteries to store excess solar energy and return power to the grid during peak periods.
CSIRO’s Chief Executive,
Dr Doug Hilton, said the new facility provides a powerful national capability at a time of rapid change in our electricity system.
“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility provides industry, researchers and system operators with an independent laboratory to test how technologies such as wind, solar, batteries and electric vehicles can integrate safely and reliably into the grid,” Dr Hilton said.
“As Australia transitions to a cleaner, more electrified economy, we need the confidence that new energy technologies can operate safely and reliably across the system. This upgraded facility strengthens Australia’s capability to test exactly that.
“The facility will support more efficient use of electrical infrastructure, ultimately helping improve energy affordability for Australian homes and businesses."
CSIRO Energy Systems Research Program Director
Dr John Ward said the new laboratory will help Australia tackle both local and global challenges in the energy transition.
“The Renewable Energy Integration Facility allows us to simulate and stress-test real-world grid conditions, giving us deeper insight into how inverter-based technologies like solar and batteries perform as their share grows across the electricity system,” Dr Ward said.
“Australia faces unique challenges – from long, remote distribution networks and record levels of rooftop solar, to increasingly volatile weather and rising demand from energy-intensive data centres.
“This facility allows us to work side-by-side with industry and market bodies to design innovative solutions.
“The facility also supports Australian innovation and manufacturing by providing a rigorous, independent
q Demonstrating Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology in CSIRO's Renewable Energy Integration Facility.
environment to evaluate new technologies before they reach market,” he said.
The facility is open to external industry and research organisations for collaboration and commercialisation projects
Modern and Contemporary
By Nico LOMBARDO
THE Port Stephens Community Arts Centre is now hosting a “Modern Contemporary Art and Photography” exhibition.
Featuring local artists, it aims to challenge the public through bold, abstract, and provocative installations across a wide variety of different mediums.
These include painting, photography, mosaics, craft, pottery, woodworking, cardmaking, and even bonsai.
The subjects are just as diverse, ranging from depictions of the beautiful sights of the local area to completely abstract landscapes.
that help address energy sector challenges.
Expressions of interest should be directed to EnergyEOI@csiro.au.
Australian start-ups and small to medium enterprises are encouraged to explore
Among the many pieces by members of the community are the works of Elena Leong.
An expert in both traditional and digital art, Leong’s pieces consist of beautiful and sometimes humorous stylised paintings of birds and bonsai trees.
Leong also designed the centre’s logo.
Featuring a brush, a needle, a vase, and pruning shears, it celebrates the different types of art that the centre brings together.
Another highlight of the exhibition is the pottery of Milja Philippson, who moved to Port Stephens from Amsterdam in 1988.
Her works show an experimental and colourful style developed over many years, with intricate designs showcasing high skill and precision.
support through CSIRO’s Kick-Start Program. The Renewable Energy Integration Facility upgrade was made possible with funding from the Department of Education’s Trailblazer Universities Program.
Jane Parker, Centre Secretary, said her wish is to provide a lively hub and meeting space for discussion.
“We have a lot of different groups here, and as a result we also have a lot of different views," she said.
The Centre, which used to be a hospital, holds sentimental value for the community.
“Many of our community members were actually born here,” Jane said.
“And before that, the building was used for army training. So this is our third iteration."
The Modern Contemporary Art and Photography exhibition will run until 1 April.
Works will then be moved to different rooms to make space for future exhibitions, but will still be available for viewing.
Volunteers clean up Wallaroo State Forest
A SMALL army of volunteers mobilised for a Clean Up Australia Day event on Sunday, disposing of rubbish in Wallaroo State Forest.
The community cleanup, coordinated by the NSW and ACT Four Wheel Drive Association, the Hunter 4WD Council, and Forestry Corporation was held on Sunday, 1 March from 8:30am.
Forestry Corporation Partnership Leader Alex Capararo said, “It’s fantastic to see so many volunteers, particularly 4WD club members across the region, putting their hands up to help care for Wallaroo State Forest.
“This level of community support makes a real difference and shows how much people value these forests as places to enjoy nature and the outdoors.”
Mr Capararo said while most visitors do the right thing, illegal dumping remains an ongoing issue in State Forests, particularly those close to towns and cities.
“Across NSW hundreds of tonnes of household and construction waste, scrap metal and abandoned vehicles are removed from state forests each year at a significant cost to the community,” he said.
“We know forests with strong community involvement tend to experience less dumping, and we’re grateful to regular forest users – bushwalkers, mountain bike clubs, horse riders, dog walkers and adjoining property owners – who help look after these areas.”
q Featured artwork by Elena Leong.
q Volunteers ready for action in Wallaroo State Forest.
Beyond the badge: Alison Stewart honoured
By Jacie WHITFIELD
SENIOR Constable
Alison Stewart has been recognised as Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year for 2026.
She was honoured as part of the NSW Women of the Year Awards, which shine a spotlight on visionary thinkers, everyday heroes and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.
This year, 94 women were nominated by local MPs as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March).
With an extraordinary 36-year career in the NSW Police Force, Snr Con. Stewart has devoted
her life to protecting and strengthening the Port Stephens community.
For the past decade, she has served as Crime Prevention Officer for the Port Stephens–Hunter Police District, earning respect for her compassionate and proactive approach.
Her work extends far beyond traditional policing.
She has built strong partnerships with schools, community groups and vulnerable families, creating safer environments and positive pathways for young people at risk.
She also co-founded “The Backpack Venture", a grassroots initiative providing essential school supplies to students
experiencing hardship so they can start the year with dignity and confidence.
Local MP Kate Washington praised Snr Con. Stewart’s decades of service, describing her as a role model whose integrity and compassion have made the community safer and stronger.
She will be formally recognised alongside other recipients at a ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on 5 March, and locally at the Port Stephens International Women’s Day Breakfast at the Murrook Culture Centre on 9 March.
Humbled by the honour, Snr Con. Stewart said policing has always been about people - building trust, supporting those in need and working together to create safer communities.
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 available space, relevance and appropriateness media@newsofthearea.com.au
q Woman of the Year recipient Alison Stewart with MP Kate Washington. Photo: supplied, Kate Washington MP.
Composting tips and tricks
By Nico LOMBARDO
AFTER a long career in the coal industry, Jacqui Purcell from “In Our Hands Family Farm” decided to study agriculture and transition to a lifestyle of low environmental impact.
At a 28 February workshop organised by Port Stephens Council at the Fern Bay Community Hall, Jacqui shared her secrets for turning waste into a valuable resource for any garden, through composting and worm farming.
These processes are nothing more than what already happens in forests, where organic materials fall on the floor and are broken down into a nutrient-rich soil.
“I do not ever put my green
bin out on the kerb because anything going in a green bin is a future composter that you want to keep to yourself in your own backyard,” Jacqui said.
All sorts of leftovers can be used: there are “greens” like food scraps, grass clippings and coffee grounds, and “browns”, like fallen leaves, straw, paper, cardboard and fabric.
The ideal ratio for a compost pile is about 25 brown parts to one green part, and there is an easy way to know how well everything is going.
“If you open a composter and can’t find any insects, there’s something very wrong," Jacqui said.
“You want a big diversity of insects, and also things like bacteria and fungi.”
Participants in the workshop also had the chance to examine containers full of the creatures responsible for making the soil richer.
Among all organisms that inhabit the soil, worms can be used in a unique way.
Worm farming is a similar process to composting.
In exchange for careful upkeep, they can produce significantly richer soil in a short amount of time.
Composting and worm farming can require specialised equipment, however Jacqui believes anyone can do them at home, in gardens of any size.
Councils supported to identify land for affordable housing
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.
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.”
Next steps for Emergency Services Levy reform
OPTIONS to reduce household insurance costs and fix an “unfair funding model” for emergency services will be put to a NSW parliamentary inquiry. While emergency services benefit everyone, most of their funding comes from a levy not everyone pays.
The NSW Government says it is committed to removing this Emergency Services Levy (ESL) and replacing it with a “simple and transparent” levy spread across all properties.
Currently, the burden of paying the ESL is placed only on those who take out
q Treasurer Daniel Mookhey.
property insurance.
The cost of this levy for residential insurance has increased 48 percent from 2017-18 to 2023-24, adding pressure on household budgets.
All mainland states, apart from NSW, have implemented property-based levies to fund their emergency services.
In November 2023, the Minns Labor Government committed to reforming the ESL.
The parliamentary inquiry will build on extensive public consultation carried out since then, and seeks to develop a consensus and strengthen support for the reform’s direction.
To inform the inquiry process, the Government will release an options paper which includes five levy model options.
This follows a comprehensive collection of property level insurance policy data and land classifications performed
by local councils under legislative amendments.
Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “This is an important step in moving funding for emergency services to an equitable and sustainable footing that cuts the cost of insurance.
“The parliamentary inquiry will provide an open and transparent forum to test the proposed framework and ensure stakeholder perspectives are meaningfully considered.
“We want to work with the Opposition and the crossbench to plot the last leg of this journey.
“This system funds services that protect all of us – and it is time for all politicians to work together to reform it.”
In response to the NSW Government’s announcement, Local Government NSW is calling for the collection of any new State Government charge to sit with the responsible state
agency, Revenue NSW, and not councils.
LGNSW President Mayor Darcy Byrne said that while councils supported the NSW Government making the ESL fairer and more equitable by broadening its base, it would not make sense for 128 different councils to be required to collect what was clearly a State Government charge.
“LGNSW would strongly oppose any move aimed at forcing councils to wear increased administrative costs and take the political heat for what is obviously a state government responsibility,” Mayor Byrne said.
“After years of cost shifting to local government, many councils are in a challenging financial position. Continually forcing them to collect a State Government levy would be confusing for ratepayers and further hamper the ability of councils to professionally manage their finances,” he said.
Expressions of interest open for Volunteer Grants
FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging not-for-profit organisations to apply for funding under the Australian Government’s 2025–26 Volunteer Grants Program, with expressions of interest now open.
Volunteer Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible community organisations that rely on
volunteers. The program is designed to strengthen local volunteering by helping organisations remove barriers to participation and better support the people who give their time to serve our community.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our region,” Ms Penfold said.
“From sporting clubs
and service organisations to emergency response groups and community associations, volunteers keep Lyne connected and functioning.
“These grants – albeit small in amount – do provide practical support to ensure they have the tools they need.”
Funding can be used for items and services that directly support volunteers
and volunteering activities, including:
- Communication equipment such as laptops, tablets, and radios
- IT software and technology upgrades
- Volunteer insurance
- Training and support materials
- Equipment to assist specific volunteer cohorts, including
young people, seniors, First Nations volunteers, veterans, and people with disability
Eligible organisations must be not-for-profit and demonstrate that they rely on volunteers to deliver their services.
Expressions of interest must be submitted to Ms Penfold’s office by 5:00pm on Wednesday 1 April.
“In particular, for many smaller, regional and rural councils facing an existential threat to their financial viability, requiring them to administer a state government levy would be both unreasonable and unfair,” Mayor Byrne said.
While most of the ESL is funded from a levy on insurance, 11.7 percent of the ESL is funded by a levy on councils.
According to LGNSW, the ESL is one of the “largest cost shifts onto councils”, amounting to $236 million in 2025-26.
“We look forward to our opportunity to address the inquiry, but it’s critical that the ESL be removed from councils to ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency.
“It would be far more efficiently collected by a single NSW Government agency (such as Revenue NSW), as is the case in other states,” Mayor Byrne said.
The form is available via Ms Penfold’s website under the ‘How I Can Help’ tab.
“Lyne has a proud culture of volunteerism,” Ms Penfold said.
“I encourage all eligible organisations to put forward an expression of interest so we can ensure our local groups receive their fair share of the funding available to the Lyne electorate.” For further information, organisations can contact Ms Penfold’s electorate office.
U12 Bandits shine at Oztag titles
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens’ first Under 12 Girls representative Oztag team has returned from the Junior State Titles in Coffs Harbour with a huge pass mark.
The talented young Bandits set a lofty benchmark for future Port Stephens lineups by reaching the quarterfinals of the prestigious championships.
Under leading coach Craig Milne, the rookies displayed tremendous teamwork and tenacity in the ultracompetitive division.
The team booked a top eight spot after chalking up four wins and a draw from six rounds in a tough pool.
They scored victories over Ryde Colts 8-0, Easts 3-0 and 4-2, and Liverpool 4-0, and drew 2-2 with Sutherland.
Port Stephens’ only loss in the preliminary rounds was a last-gasp 1-0 defeat to Shellharbour on the second day of action.
Eventual champions Cronulla eliminated the stout-hearted Bandits 3-0 in a gripping quarter-final.
A delighted Milne, who is also a highly regarded mentor with the South Newcastle Lions Junior Rugby League Club, told News Of The Area that he was extremely proud of the girls’ efforts.
“All team members played a significant role in steering us to the finals at their first attempt,” he said.
“The squad was a mash of promising young athletes with rugby league, netball and AFL backgrounds who built a fine rapport on and off the field.
“They clicked from the outset and entertained the Oztag community with their quick passing, speed and footwork, which triggered many scoring opportunities.”
Testament to the Bandits’ strike power was that 11 of their 22 tries overall were scored on the edge by the club’s talented bunch of links and wingers.
The Port Stephens Under 12 Girls squad featured
q Port Stephens Bandits’ inaugural U12 Girls representative team reached the quarter finals at the Junior State Oztag tournament.
outstanding prospects in emerging links Ashlee Dark, Hope Rogers, Leilanii Bradshaw and Summer Morgan; dashing wingers
Audrey Keating, Brailee Abraham, Ellie Carstairs
Kroehnert smashes 145 for Rebels
By Chris KARAS
NEWCASTLE
Suburban
Districts representative
cricketer Mitch Kroehnert has produced one of the finest batting performances in a Hunter Valley John Bull Shield series final.
The Rebels skipper sent local cricket historians poring over the record books when he blasted a superb 145 not
out in his team’s seven wicket loss to Singleton in the recent final at Howe Park.
Kroehnert’s magnificent century off 113 balls featured an incredible 11 sixes and six boundaries and was one of the best knocks witnessed in the competition's 102-year history.
He was later named best on ground in a losing side.
The Waterboard Wests
captain was joined in the Rebels squad by Port Stephens Pythons trio Jarrod Moxey, Leigh Williams and Travis Ling.
Batting first, the Rebels posted a competitive 7-246 from their 50 overs with the stylish Moxey contributing 18 runs, but fell at the final hurdle in their quest for a second title.
Singleton were in a
commanding position at 1-127 when lightning brought play to a halt after 27 overs.
When the umpires decided it was safe to return to play, the innings was reduced to 37 overs with the revised Duckworth/Lewis target being 176.
The home side wasted no time eclipsing the mark - smashing the required 49 runs off 38 deliveries to clinch
Newcastle Football withdraws teams
q A
competition
the region has existed for decades.
Tanilba Bay Veteran Golfers
By Ian WILLIAMS
24th FEBRUARY 2026.
The weather was perfect for golf, mostly sunny and warm to hot for most of the morning. We played an 2 Man Stroke Aggregate game over 9 holes, normal start,
off the front nine.
A roll up of 19 players today, we always look forward to Tuesday's. Front nine: Winners: Gary Payseno & John Street nett 76 Runners up:
Lenny Hardes & Barry Disch.nett 77
Ball winners : Andrew Corbett & Barry Sampson.nett 79
Laurie Northey & Mark Moore nett 82
Steve Robards & Greg Garvin nett 82
A MAJOR shake-up may impact the way football competitions are delivered in the Hunter region.
Newcastle Football has advised the neighbouring zones of Macquarie Football and Hunter Valley Football that it will not enter its clubs in Inter-District competitions in 2025.
“Our clubs will feature in competitions solely within our zone,” Newcastle Football said in a statement.
“After many years, we have recognised that our zone now has divergent plans as well as differing governance and operational policies.”
While Inter-District competitions look likely
Vince & Grant Schubert nett 87
Ray Stubbs & Peter Martyn nett 88
Keith Chapple & Geoff Hulls nett 91
Ian Williams & Steve Enderby nett 100
Jim Carberry continues to submit cards for calclation towards his official handicap, it wont be too
and Isabella Roberts; rising rovers Grace Tansey, Hallie Gessell, Harriett Dunn and Skye Robbins and skilful middles Daisy-Mae Milne, Hailey Eyles, Pippa Carman and Shae Seymour.
a 21st Shield trophy.
Bradley Cox top scored for the Singleton X1 with a classy 70 off 92 balls and was supported by skipper Jackson Cox (35) and Ross Parker (31 not out).
During the regular season, the Rebels won three of their four matches against Upper Hunter, Cessnock, and Maitland to secure their place in the Bull Shield decider.
The Newcastle Suburban Districts Rebels squad
to be impacted, the statement indicated that Newcastle Football remains “passionately obliged” to managing the Zone Football League which features clubs from Newcastle, Macquarie, Hunter Valley and Mid North Coast football zones.
In response to the news, Hunter Valley Football and Macquarie Football have written to Northern NSW Football to request a mediation session.
Board members and General Managers of the three zones will be invited.
“Thousands of players from across the three zones have already paid their registration fees and started training for the upcoming 2026 season in good faith, on the understanding that
much longer now.
NTP 4th hole:
A grade Mark Moore
B grade Bob Skinner
C grade Charlie Skinner
D & C 7th hole:
A grade Barry Disch
B Grade Barry Sampson
C grade Gary Payseno
Longest drive 2nd Hole:
A grade Geoff Hulls
B grade John Street
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a Single Stableford competition
played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 23rd February 2026 with 56 players.
(Inter-club visit by Tanilba Bay Vets)
In a further boost, the young Bandits also qualified for next year’s top tier Junior State Oztag Cup series with the 2027 event to be split into separate Cup and Shield divisions.
featured Mitch Kroehnert (Waterboard Wests) captain; Jarrod Moxey,
Zac Sneddon, Tim Mason and Jesse Ballenden (Glendale Old Boys).
they were playing in the three-zone competition that has operated successfully for over 30 years,” said a joint statement from Macquarie Football chairman Doug Ross and Hunter Valley Football president Rick Allen.
“Our priority must be these players and not bringing the game we love into disrepute.
“These players should have the opportunity to play in the competitions they signed up for.
“Both Hunter Valley and Macquarie Football will enter the mediation session with this goal as their priority.”
The community football season was scheduled to start in late April.
C grade Gary Payseno Next week, 3rd March, will be an Individual Stableford game over the front nine off the white tees with a shotgun start if player numbers are back up to normal.
Rego from 7am and Tee off by 8am.
Nett Runner Up : Barry Leo, 37pts.
Bonus Point Winner : Graham Woolley, 40pts on c/b.
Bonus Point Runner Up : Greg Garvin, 40pts.
Nett Winner : Phil Sherwood, 37pts on countback.
Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole :
Div 1 : Shayne Mullarvey.
Div 2 : Peter Hawkins.
Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole :
Div 1 : Steve Robards.
Div 2 : John Howlett.
Drive & Chip, 7th Hole :
Div 1 : Barry Leo.
Div 2 : Bryan Porter.
Drive & Chip, 18th Hole,
Div 1 : Barry Disch (TBV)
Div 2 : Peter Toth (Birdie)
Ball Winners : Bryan Porter
38pts, Phil Rogan 38pts, Michael Tagg 37pts, Wayne Smith 36pts, Ian Dean
35pts, Brian Riddell 35pts, Col Kerrison 35pts, Peter Hawkins 35pts, Gary Watt
35pts, Robbie Kerehoma 35pts, Shayne Mullarvey
35pts, Karen Harley 35pts, Jim Gill 35pts, Barry Disch
35pts, Peter Kori 35pts, and Gary Lichtenberger
35pts.
Lucky Draw Prize Winner : Gary Lichtenberger.
WANT TO BE SEEN? Call Tracey now!
Leigh Williams and Travis Ling (Port Stephens Pythons); Shafiq Syed, Rohan Mokal, Dibyendu Mishra and Varun Sharma (Cardiff-Boolaroo); Matthew White, Leto Oxenham and Scott Byrnes (Warners Bay);
three-zone
featuring teams from across
By Paul DORIN
By Mayor Leah ANDERSON
THE natural beauty of our beaches is a big part of what makes Port Stephens such a great place to live.
We’ve just come off a busy summer where tens of thousands of people spent time on our shores, and it was great to see so many people enjoying our region.
However, that much activity across our coastline means there is work to do once the peak season ends.
Keeping our beaches beautiful doesn’t happen by accident.
It stays that way because of the pride people take in this area.
We saw this firsthand at the Take 3 for the Sea workshop at Birubi and our local Clean Up Australia Day events.
Seeing so many people get involved was a great reminder of why this is such a special place to live.
These initiatives show how small actions add up.
Whether it is a large-scale community working bee or simply taking three pieces of rubbish with us each time we visit the beach, we can prevent plastic from ending up in the ocean and harming wildlife.
These local efforts go hand in hand with the long-term work Council is delivering.
One of our priorities is to look after our waterways and especially the Inner Port, and this is where our Coastal Management Program (CMP) comes in.
The CMP is in place to handle the bigger jobs, like sand nourishment to prevent erosion, dune stabilisation, and improving our drainage to stop litter and runoff from washing into our waterways.
By combining the community spirit we’ve seen at the Take 3 for the Sea and Clean Up Australia Day with these long-term actions, we’re working together to stay on top of the challenges our beaches face.
What mandate for offshore wind zone?
DEAR News Of The Area,
IT’S somewhat laughable that Robina Badger (Letter to the Editor, 19 February) felt “stunned” by community uproar about an offshore power station (wind farm).
There was no political mandate: I’ve lived for 36 years in this coastal strip without hearing one serious election candidate grandly promising to take power generation into our ocean.
At the Port Stephens Council election, Labor did not, to my knowledge, publicly support any such zone.
Labor’s mayoral candidate had signs declaring her opposition.
Port Stephens Labor MP, Kate Washington, to my knowledge, is yet to call for this proposal and Paterson Labor member, Meryl Swanson, only publicly touched on it here in the
very final days of the last election campaign.
Secondly, it’s incorrect that the proposal was preliminary.
The feasibility licence offer was, in fact, an operational go-ahead, subject only to some box-ticking.
As for the community opposition being well funded, I won’t waste time on conspiracy theories: all I will say is… “Oh please.”
On the subject of aggression, I personally know of instances where locals opposing this windzone-on-floaties were threatened in attempted intimidation.
The difference is that they don’t play the continual victim.
Regards, Ian ROBERTS, Fingal Bay
Stinker’s Fishin’: Snapper secrets
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
SO, you want to catch a snapper.
There are many ways to do this, but I will tell you how I do it.
The very first question to ask is: where do snapper gather?
The best snapper fisher in the world will not catch a fish where they are not.
Perfect underwater habitat for ‘reddies’ stretches from Seal Rocks in the north to Birubi and Newcastle in the south. Every shallow reef, island and rocky headland will hold cracker snapper in the right conditions.
Exiting the heads turn south and
sail to the reefs and bomboras off the outer lighthouse.
It can be dangerous so check it out in safe conditions first.
Assuming you are launching your boat inside the harbour I would suggest you head out to sea before sunrise, just as colour enters the sky.
If you are not an earlybird, set off an hour or two before sundown and return at last light.
It would be a really good idea to check these places out before you target them.
What I mean is check these places out during the day so you know exactly where to drop the anchor.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I am doing a complete clean out of my home, but I can't decide what to keep and what to cull.
How do I make these decisions?
Claudia D.
Dear Claudia,
I am the wrong person to ask about this.
When I decide to clean my bedroom, I enter the zone of nostalgia.
Soon, I am surrounded by clothes from the 1990s, boxes of electrical cords that seem important (and yet I have no idea what they belong to), a boxed wedding dress, letters from friends, artworks that no longer suit our decor, but hold fond memories, the kids' baby teeth, orders of service from every funeral I've attended, and childhood teddy bears amongst other items.
No matter how hard I try, I'm unable to take the next step, which is to realise that these are items I will never use again, except to remove them from drawers and put them back with every spring clean.
Marie Kondo would weep over my inability to declutter.
With each item, she would ask if it brought me joy, and I would not have a sufficient answer, except to ponder if joy is really what we are after when we rearrange our belongings.
I suspect it is not the freeing nature of joy, but the sentimental pull of nostalgia.
One of my sons has inherited this sense of longing.
He has it much worse than I do.
A couple of times I have tried to give away some things from his childhood - his Lego, a jar of shells, a size 5 hand-knitted jumper - and he looks at me as though I am trying to sell one of his kidneys.
My daughter, on the other hand, is a Marie Kondo loyalist. She will throw anything away without a hint of reflection.
Cards, clothes, trophies. She tosses them with abandon.
Whenever she does a cull, I head to the bin and do some surreptitious retrieving.
Somewhere between these extremes is probably where you want to be with your complete cleanout, and there are some great strategies for achieving your goal.
The best one I've found is to clear everything out of the room and then sort your things into four groups: Keep, Move, Donate/Sell and Chuck.
Start with one cupboard and don't move on until you have finished.
If you are trying to work out what to keep, interrogate your reasons.
If it's a pair of shorts, for example, that you've kept for 10 years because you're going to squeeze into them one day, let yourself move on from that thought.
If it's a wedding dress that carries nostalgic memories and you have room for it, you have every right to hold onto it. Make your decisions quickly. DO NOT SIT DOWN (this is important).
As soon as you sit on the floor and open up that box of photos and letters, Coldplay's Warning Sign playing in the background, you're on your way to an emotionally-overloaded situation that no amount of storage boxes and Glen 20 will fix.
Carpe diem, Jasminda
q George Trinkler knows where all the snapper hide.
READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 103:13"Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear (revere) Him."
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Stinker’s History: Grand old days on the Myall
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
OLD timers may recall the great days of the Annual Mungo Brush Regatta.
Nestled in a protected corner of the Myall Lakes, on the eastern shore of the Broadwater, Mungo Brush was the perfect setting for the regatta conducted by the Port Stephens Regatta Club since 1903.
As documented by Publicity Officer Tim Motum the regatta was reputed to have started as a grudge match between rival hauling teams of fishermen.
They met annually at Mungo to pit their wits and sailing skills against one another for three or four years until it became an organised event.
The regatta developed into a huge social gathering with some families staying on the lake for up to a month.
The closure of the timber mills on the shores of the lakes over Christmas gave the workers a chance to get away and they and their families attended the regatta on droghers, which acted as dance floors and sometimes provided overnight accommodation.
Everyone had to travel by water as no roads were in existence in the area.
A cutting from the Port Stephens Pilot, December 1913 read: “The S.S. Nepean will leave Sawyers Point (now known as Karuah) on Monday 27th Dec at 6.30 am sharp. Leaving Tea Gardens at 8.30am and returning to Tea Gardens and Sawyers Point on Tuesday evening. Return fares to Sawyers Point three shillings and one shilling and sixpence return to Tea Gardens. All visitors must bring camping requisites. Adolph Engle S.S. Nepean.”
Hugh Thurlow’s passenger boats also connected with the horse drawn passenger coaches from Newcastle, collecting people from Salt Ash and ferrying them to Tea
Gardens for connection to the “Nepean”.
Other boats included the shallow draft steamer “Myall River” and the “Coweambah” picked up people from Buladelah and Bungwahl for the trip to Mungo Brush.
It was not uncommon to have a crowd of 1000 at the Regatta to enjoy the boat racing, merry-gorounds and side shows.
People used the regatta as an excuse to dress in their best clothes.
Ladies wore hats and gloves and sometimes carried parasols to ward off some of the midsummer heat, while gentlemen wore suits, or panama hats with sports trousers and blazers; watches and chains were conspicuously displayed.
Racing in the early days was all sail as it was long before the appearance of the internal combustion engine in the area.
The large work boats, used all year for fishing, were rigged with an enormous sail and resembled the early 18 foot sailing boats.
One of the largest boats was sailed by the Motum brothers; the “Comet” was 22 foot long and had a
nine foot beam.
Boats from outside the area soon appeared with the Forster boats being sailed to the lower end of Wallis Lake, then transported overland via Smith Lake to Bungwahl by bullock team.
The boats were then re-rigged and sailed down the lake to Mungo.
The Newcastle boats were launched at Salt Ash then towed to Mungo behind one of the many vessels headed that way.
The appearance of the internal combustion engine in the area opened up a whole new scene and once again it was the work boats that took part with all shapes and sizes of vessels vying for the ever increasing prize money.
In the early 1950s class racing began with the introduction of the ever popular Simplex Marine Engine.
Two sizes competed, the five horse power and the powerful 10/12 horse power models for larger boats.
Many owners could be seen stripping out the heavy work fitting, bunks etc to try and grab an extra knot or two.
As car engines became both more powerful and lighter in weight, the era of the speed boat
was born and for the first time boats were constructed especially for racing.
This move freed builders and designers from the requirements of the work boat and opened up a whole new era for shapes and construction.
The Lyall Bros. from Carrington - Ken, Bill and Doug - were well known oyster farmers and avid fans of the Mungo Regatta.
They built their own boats, one of which was powered by a V8 Curtis aeroplane engine and was, not surprisingly, the boat to beat for several years.
As the prize money increased so did the interest of boat owners from far and wide with all styles of racing boats, powered and sail, being entered.
The regatta continued after the gazetting of the Myall Lakes National Park in 1972 and was supported by the NPWS and the Maritime Services Board.
Both departments assisted by authorising “sealed roads, car parking and boat launching ramps at the site”.
To the regret of many local residents and visitors, the last Mungo Brush Regatta was held in January 1999.
Medals haul for athletic sisters
By Chris KARAS
HURDLING her way to success on the track is Salamander Bay’s promising schoolgirl athlete Anna Taylor-Anderson.
The rising 15-year-old sprint hurdler is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in the Port Stephens region and continues to enhance her reputation with medalwinning performances at elite levels.
Anna booked an
appearance at the upcoming NSW Junior Track and Field Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre, when she powered home to clinch the 15yrs Girls 90m hurdles gold medal at the recent Region 2 championships in Maitland.
It was a stirring performance by the top Port Stephens Athletics club prospect, who secured the title with a time of 14.20 seconds – just in front of Westlakes sprinter Charlotte
Campbell (14.23 sec).
The hurdles triumph capped a productive championship meet for Anna, who also claimed bronze medals in the javelin, triple jump and long jump field events, plus the 100m sprint.
In a family milestone, Anna’s younger sibling Jaimee Lee picked up a bronze medal in the 13yrs Girls javelin.
For Anna, a major factor in her success on the track is her long time mentor, Port Stephens coach Bob Walkley.
New women's AFL coach
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens Power AFL Club have appointed Tim Drough as senior women's coach for the 2026 season.
It is the first formal coaching opportunity for
Drough, who hails from Victoria.
He joins the Power organisation after more than 20 years in leadership.
An enthusiastic Drough told News Of The Area that he was “excited” to be
taking on the role of coach for the Hunter Central Coast AFL Black Diamond Plate competition.
“I have always been interested in coaching and look forward to connecting, learning and collaborating
Under Walkley’s tuition, the Tomaree High School student has developed her athletics repertoire with sharp performances in hurdles as well as the 100m and 200m sprints plus high jump, long jump and triple jump.
Last year, Anna received the prestigious Lee Thompson Memorial Sportsmanship Award at Port Stephens Athletics Club’s end-of-season presentation.
with the group and seeing how far we can go as a team in 2026,” he said.
“Our women's team prides itself on being supportive, welcoming, and inclusive, with opportunities for players of all skill levels to grow, compete and have fun.
“We’re a proud women’s
Taylor-Anderson collected a haul of medals at the recent Region 2 Athletics Championships in Maitland.
and girls chartered club, committed to creating a positive and empowering environment for women in AFL football.”
Anthony Merritt and Benjamin Frith will coach the Port Stephens Power men's squad in 2026.
With just six weeks before competition
Langmack and Merlo star at league luncheon
By Chris KARAS
LEGENDARY rugby league forwards Paul Langmack and Paul Merlo stole the show at the recent Port Stephens Family of League Kick Off Day luncheon.
In their day, there were no fiercer competitors than the ball-playing Langmack and forward warrior Merlo, who enjoyed illustrious careers in the NSWRL first grade competition.
In a major coup, the pair entertained patrons with their humorous football yarns of yesteryear, alongside Master of Ceremonies Charlie Haggett. Hosted by the Soldiers Point Bowling Club for an eighth successive year and organised by the tireless Port Stephens Family Of League (PSFOL) committee, the event proved a huge success by raising $6,000 for the charitable foundation.
The Family Of League provides financial, emotional and social support to men, women and children of the rugby league community who are in need.
League greats Langmack is regarded as one of CanterburyBankstown’s all-time greats - a skilful lock forward who figured in three Bulldogs premiership-winning teams in 1984, 1985 and 1988.
A former Australian
Schoolboys captain, he made 174 top grade appearances for Canterbury and represented City Origin and NSW.
In 1987, aged 22 years and 26 days, he became the youngest player in history to notch up 100 first grade matches.
He later joined the Western Suburbs Magpies to become just the fifth player to reach 100 games with two different clubs.
One of the game’s personality players of his era, Langmack shared some hilarious moments.
He also spoke about his charity work with NSW Rugby League through their free True Blue Mental Fitness programs for youngsters aged 11 to 17.
The programs had reached out to over 12,000 young people.
His involvement followed a personal cancer scare in 2016.
He urged the audience to reach out to former teammates, family and friends who may be isolated and need a friendly chat.
Langmack brought along a signed NSW State of Origin jumper that was auctioned for $1800 - raising money for both True Blue Mental
Fitness and PSFOL.
Merlo, who now resides at Fingal Bay, also reflected on his impressive first-grade career, which included 153 games with Penrith, Western Suburbs and Cronulla.
The former NSW Origin forward also fondly talked about his 160 top grade matches as a player-coach in the Newcastle competition for Western Suburbs Rosellas, Waratah Cheetahs and South Newcastle Lions.
PSFOL committeeman
Greg Spake told News Of The Area that the League Legends luncheon proved a “massive success.”
“We had some fascinating rugby league folk attend the event with Soldiers Point Bowling Club’s function coordinator Emily Nichols working hard behind the scenes to ensure a great day was had by all,” he revealed.
Supporting the day were tables from Fingal Bay Bomboras Rugby League Club, Northern Hawks RLFC, Nelson Bay Junior Marlins RLFC, Nelson Bay Bandits Women's team, Nelson Bay Old Boys Network, Nelson Bay Gropers Rugby Club, Fingal Bay Bowling Club, Harbourside Haven, Dirty Dozen golf group, Kurri
Raymond Terrace scores Koori Knockout
FROM Page 24
stage.
“This is a huge opportunity,” she said.
“Hosting the Koori Knockout helps to position Port Stephens as a premier sporting destination, capable of hosting major events.”
Founded in 1971, the event is centred around creating opportunities for talented Indigenous players to get into state level rugby league.
Last year, the Newcastle Yowies won the knockout, hence the event being hosted in the Hunter Valley.
Over its 55 years, the Knockout has become one of the biggest sporting and cultural events in Australia.
“This event will be more than a sporting competition. [It is] helping local families experience a significant cultural event right here at home,” Cr Anderson said.
“It will inspire young people by showcasing our
region’s capacity to host major events and celebrate the strength and leadership of Aboriginal communities.”
Cr Anderson expects that local businesses will see the benefits of so many people visiting the area.
“Major events like this do more than fill accommodation.
“They build community confidence in an area, bring people together and help create the sense of pride and belonging that strong communities are built on.”
kicks off, the club is still welcoming players of all abilities for their senior men’s and women's teams. Training sessions will be held on Tuesday and Thursday nights at Medowie’s Ferodale Oval between 6pm and 7.30pm.
Bulldogs and Waratah Cheetahs.
Also in attendance were Men of League co-founder and life member Jim Hall, Newcastle Jockey Club president Brian Judd, PSFOL President Bill Gainsford, Nelson Bay RLFC premiership winning coach Peter Walsh, former State Member for Port Stephens Bob Martin, Newcastle FOL president Mal Graham and David Turrell and Ian and Michelle Denton who sponsor the Newcastle Rugby League competition and were most generous in their support.
Northern Hawks RLFC Director of Football Garth Brennan and coach Steve Simpson gave a great insight into how season 2026 is shaping up for the Hawks, local support and sponsorship, new recruits and pathways that have been created with local clubs Nelson Bay Juniors and Fingal Bay Bomboras.
The auction items were generously donated by Glenn Helman and local Port Stephens businesses.
The Foundation will hold its annual Charity Golf Day on Sunday 19 April at Nelson Bay Golf Club.
Registrations are now open through MiTournament or by contacting the Golf Club reception.
q The Koori Knockout will be held at King Park in Raymond Terrace.
q Talented Port Stephens club athletes and siblings Anna and Jaimee
q Former NSW Origin forwards Paul Merlo and Paul Langmack with Newcastle competition sponsors Ian and Michelle Denton, MC Charlie Haggett and Nelson Bay coach Peter Walsh.
SUDOKU
Muree Golf Results
By Lee RANKIN
Kids Boot Camp
Price Guide
$1,000,000 to $1,100,000 Price Guide
$1,200,000 to $1,300,000
5
Formal
$1,299,000
•
Step
Separate
$1,050,000
Formal
HEATH JONES STEPHEN COSTELLO HUGH MCINNES
Hamptons-style luxury
DIRECTLY
(“Dutchies”)
Stroll
Upstairs,
12noon
ADAM
Patricia Judith
Passed away peacefully on 23.02.2026
Aged 84 years
Late of Tea Gardens
Beloved wife of John (dec’d). A loving mother and mother-in-law to Adam, Damien (dec’d), Kirsten and Anthony.
A much loved nan nan to Jackson, Trent, Jessica, Lachlan, Jaime and Molly and great nan nan to Payton Love.
A dear sister and sister-in-law and an adored aunty and friend to many.
Patricia will be sadly missed by all who loved and knew her.
Family and Friends of PATRICIA are warmly invited to attend a formal celebration of her life to be held at Tea Gardens Country Club Yalinbah Street, Tea Gardens on FRIDAY 06.03.2026 at 2:00pm
TRAILER 8x5 with galv cage, GC, like new. 6/26 TJ28NP. $950. Ph 0404 292 942 e120326
TWO old usable Surfboards suitable for kids learning. $40 for both. Located in HN. Call 0493 078 190
WW2 figures & vehicles kits paints & tools for dioramas. Plus US civil war, Waterloo sets etc. Ph 0402 457 800
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $6,500. 0415 678 687 Motors
DOONA, new with valance, new with cushions $100 Ph 0493 777 707
BASKET large for wood, etc $20 Ph 4982 8787
BEARING buddies, x 2, brand new, 50mm stainless steel, marine grade, suit single axle trailer. $20 ono. 0414 013 244
BEDROOM chair and print $50 Salt Ash 0432 671 259
BEDSIDE table, 3 drawer, timber, mid brown, well made, as new, W 44cm x D 39cm H 66cm. Bargain. $100 0407 987 388
Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215 e190426 BOOTS, leather, ladies made in Canada. EUC $60 4982 8787
DVD Sets - The Danielle Steel Collection - 19 movies, exc cond. $20 McLeods Daughters the complete 8 series exc cond $40. Hawks Nest. 0414 848 307
777 707
LEATHER coat, mens Made in AU. $95. 0428 287 239
EXTENSION ladder aluminimum 2.7
PAINTING of vase & flowers, framed, 4ft x 2.5ft. $100. 0493 777 707
Classifieds 4981 8882
PNEUMATIC tyres x 6 on 10” diameter rims off tandem boat trailer $90. 0419 932 992.
TYRE and rim for wheelbarrow, 10” Pneumatic. $40. 0419 932 992.
UNICORN, 77cm x 84 cm, Pink, GC, $20 4982 8628.
RETAINING wall Terracotta link blocks approx 100, new, suit garden edge / retaining wall. DYO. Bargain. $100 You collect. 0407987388
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
BLUE MURDER MOTEL
ABC TV, 7.30pm
McLeod’s Daughters co-stars Michala Banas and Brett Tucker (both pictured) reunite for this Kiwi murder mystery with a kooky twist. Recently retired from the Sydney homicide squad for reasons they’re not willing to discuss, married couple Vinny (Banas) and Cole (Tucker) head across the ditch for a fresh start, buying a rundown retro motel in a seaside town near Auckland. It’s not quite the dream they had in mind though – the plumbing’s a disaster, the sign is permanently askew… and there’s a dead body in one of the rooms.
FRIDAY, March 6
TUESDAY
MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT
NBN, 7.30pm
Rolling green hills, tranquil bird song and luxurious accommodation – it might sound relaxing but there’s no surer way to ensure chaos and conflict among Married at First Sight than the series’ infamous Retreat Week. Like a days-long dinner party, the couples are encouraged to mingle, gain a fresh perspective and find out if their connections really work outside the four walls of their Sydney apartments. This year, it’s a bad joke that has sent the experiment into meltdown – with the fallout isolating Rachel and Steven from the rest of the group. At the final drinks night, Bec (pictured) is caught at the centre of the drama as the lingering tensions reach an explosive conclusion.
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australia’s Wild Odyssey. (Final, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 2.00 Dog Park. (Ml, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Mal, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point. (R) 9.05 Singapore Bitesize. (R) 9.25 My Unique B&B. (R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 The Toy Hospital. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Marseille: Birth Of A Megapolis. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Killer Condo. (2022, Mav, R) 3.00 Unfiltered: Cricket. (PG, R) 3.30 Women’s Test Cricket: Pre-Game. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh visits a colourful slice of Malta.
8.35 Professor T. (PGa) Professor T is out of prison.
9.25 Tonight At The Museum. (PG, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.
9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)
10.25 Dog Park. (M, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (M, R)
12.00 Smother. (Mls, R)
1.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)
6am
6.05pm PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.45 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Fukushima: Days That Shocked The World.
9.25 Fly With Me. (Ml, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Sisi. (PGa)
12.05 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.00 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! (2008, PGls, R) A young woman invites three of her mother’s former boyfriends to her upcoming wedding on a Greek island. Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth.
10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R) A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren.
12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) Addy and Colette feel the heat.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
THURSDAY CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA
“I’m not really drawn to heroes,” admits actor Hugo Weaving. Perhaps most famous The ’s menacing Agent Smith, the Sydney-based star aims to find the humanity within the fractured and complex men he plays on screen and stage – be it English cricket captain Douglas Jardine in Bodyline or monstrous father David in Patrick Melrose. Strolling around Sydney with host Virginia Trioli (pictured left, with Weaving) for this brilliant arts-focused interview series, Weaving shares insights on his career, iconic roles and creative process. A fascinating figure who refuses the Hollywood life, Weaving finds a sense of place and belonging in telling Australian stories.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Brisbane Broncos v Penrith Panthers.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game.
10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R) An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt.
1.00 Next Stop.
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)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.05 Nanny. 9.35 Addams Family. 10.05 Bewitched. 11.05 Rugby Heaven. 12.05pm Big Rigs Of Oz. 12.35 9Honey Hacks. 12.50 Parental Guidance. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family.
6.00
SATURDAY, March 7
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (Premiere, PG)
Follows two married Australian detectives.
8.20 Top End Bub. (Premiere, PG)
A couple’s perfect Adelaide life is interrupted when a family tragedy strikes and they’re forced to return to Darwin. 8.50 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R)
Commissioner Selwyn Patterson is shot while celebrating 50 years of police service at the yacht club.
9.50 This England. (M, R) Looks at Britain during COVID-19. 10.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
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. 9.30 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. (Final)
8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (R)
9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R)
10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women.
12.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men.
3.15 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+av, R)
4.15 Going Places. (PGl, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session. 9.00 Women’s Test Cricket: Dinner Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far.
9.20 Cricket. Women’s Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 1.00 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. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R) A family plans a wedding. Steve Martin, Diane Keaton. 10.40 MOVIE: Moonstruck. (1987, PGal, R) Cher.
12.35 Epic Builds. (R)
1.30 Open For Inspection. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGad, R) A loving deaf couple try to break through a cavoodle’s separation anxiety. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. After years of impasse, an intervention is necessary for a Hunters Hill couple. 9.50 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.00 Matlock. (PGs, R) Olympia and Matty each put together their own collateral for Julian, hoping to regain his trust after he makes a shocking discovery. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Discovering Film. 7.30 The Remains Of The Day. (1993, PG) 10.00 Alcarràs. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Mass. (2021, M) 2.20 The Movie Show. 2.55 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.50 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 6.35 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 8.30 Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 11.50 Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story) (2015, MA15+, French) 1.35am Black Swan. (2010, MA15+) 3.30 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, March 8
6.30 Compass.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG)
8.30 Dog Park. (Final, Ml) It’s the day of Samantha and Steve’s wedding.
9.00 This England. (Final, MA15+l)
The country continues to cope with COVID.
10.05 Blue Murder Motel. (PG, R) Follows two married Australian detectives.
10.55 Top End Bub. (PG, R)
11.20 MOVIE: Partisan. (2015, MA15+v, R)
1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 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. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Pompeii: Life In The City With Dan Snow. (Premiere)
9.15 Ancient Empires. (MA15+v, R)
10.55 Roberta Flack. (PGa, R)
12.25 Jackie And Lee: A Tale Of Two Sisters. (Ma, R)
1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1.
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 8.15 Discovering Film. 9.00 Robot Dreams. (2023, PG) 10.50 While We’re Young. (2014, M) 12.40pm The Winter Guest. (1997, M) 2.40 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 4.45 Mosley. (2019, PG) 6.35 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 8.30 The Hurt Locker. (2008, MA15+) 10.50 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 1.15am Braveheart. (1995, MA15+) 4.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG)
8.00 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R)
10.00 The Hunters. (Mav, R) 11.30 Border Security: International. (PGadl)
12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights. 12.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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MOVIE: Three Thousand Years Of Longing. (2022, M) 12.35am Prodigal Son. (Premiere) 2.15 MOVIE: Just A Farmer. (2024, M) 4.20 Surfing Australia TV. 4.50 Barney’s
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)
8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: Rocky Mountain Murder Spree. (MA15+asv)
The First 48. (Mav, R)
Wild Cards. (Mv, R)
Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. (PGm, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News.
6.30 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t been heard. 7.00 Soccer. AFC 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Group stage. Australia v Korea Republic. 10.30 Gold Wars Downunder. (Premiere, Ml) Follows three hardcore mining teams. 11.30 MOVIE:
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MONDAY, March 9
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 5.45 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. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Gladiators UK. 9.35 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return)
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Other People’s Money. (Ml) 11.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v, R) 12.40 Kate And Larapinta. 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 2. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (Premiere) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics. 10.10 The Agenda Setters. (Return) 11.10 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls, R)
12.10 Conviction. (MA15+a, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 6.20 Mosley. (2019, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Discovering Film. 1.05 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 3.05 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 4.55 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 6.40 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 8.30 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 11.10 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+, German) 1.35am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 10
R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav, R)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Exit. (Mals, R)
11.55 The Carnival. (MA15+l, R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 3. 3.15 Safe Home. (Malv, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6am The Movie Show. 6.05 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.10 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 10.00 The Great Gatsby. (2013) 12.35pm Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 3.00 Mosley. (2019, PG) 4.45 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 6.40 Summerland. (2020, PG) 8.30 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.15 And So It Goes. (2014, M) Midnight Secretary. (2002, MA15+) 2.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane makes a huge decision. 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) At Jake’s father’s funeral, grief helps clarify his feelings for Amy. 10.10 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mav) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.10 Dirty John. (Premiere, MA15+v) 2.30 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) 9.00 100% Footy. (Return, Mal) Features the latest rugby league news. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (Ml) 11.30 Sight Unseen. (Mav) 12.30 Footy Classified. (Return, Ml)
WEDNESDAY, March 11
6.00
SBS World News.
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip. (Premiere)
8.25 Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (PG)
9.25 Prisoner 951. (M)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Face To Face. (Mals)
11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malv)
12.45 MOVIE: Cold Water. (2023, PGa)
1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 4. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 8.55 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.20 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
10.10 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R)
11.10 Unfiltered. (Return, M)
11.40 The Agenda Setters.
12.40 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
3.00
5.00 Alone. 6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of
Cats
Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Black
Narcissus. (1947, PG) 7.30 Discovering Film. 8.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.15 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) 12.20pm Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.15 Anton Chekhov 1890. (2015, PG, French) 4.00 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 5.50 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.30 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 10.40 Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
Leg. 9.20 Icons Unearthed: James Bond. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.55 Tales From The Territories. 2.50 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 The Movie Show. 1.50 SBS50. 1.55 Insight. 2.55 News. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.00 Alone. 6.15 The Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. (Return) 10.20 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Couples Therapy. 2.10 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Australian Idol. 1.30 Home In
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Callie & Son. (1981) 8.45 Days Of Heaven. (1978, PG) 10.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 12.15pm Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 2.25 Black Narcissus. (1947, PG) 4.20 Summerland. (2020, PG) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Unforgiven. (1992, M) 10.55 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 1.25am Beau Is Afraid. (2023, MA15+) 4.35 The Movie Show. 5.10 Discovering Film.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R) 8.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ml) A driver tries to U-turn on the Harbour Bridge.
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.
10.30 To Be Advised.
12.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
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4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Inception. (2010, M) 11.35 Seinfeld. 12.35am Love Island UK. 1.45 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 3.30 Nanny. 4.00 Late Programs.
Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels.
6am
Golf. Women’s Aust Open. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix. (1999, M) 11.15 Seinfeld. 12.15am Rugby Heaven.
DRAMA
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
Koori Knockout
By Joseph RICHARDS
Newcastle Yowies won the right to host the 2026 Koori Knockout. Photo: Kate Washington MP/FB.
RAYMOND Terrace has been confirmed as the host of the 2026
