Port Stephens News Of The Area 16 JULY 2026

Australian Idol Casey Donovan opens Indigenous Storytellers event

FAÇON

Hosted

“Creatives

By Nico LOMBARDO

BIG CHANGE

70-year milestone for Raymond Terrace Lions

By Chris KARAS

RAYMOND Terrace Lions

Club is celebrating a milestone 70th anniversary of service to the local community.

Membership chair

Annette Clark says the club is “extremely proud” of its achievements as a volunteer service group over the past seven decades.

“Year to year we make a huge difference to this community and to the lives of people who need our help and assistance,” Ms Clark told News Of The Area.

The 2026/2027 board has just been sworn in and is already hard at work.

Disbursement of over $100,000 was made during the 2025/2026 period and saw the completion of some large collaborative projects, with the sunshade over the children’s play equipment in Riverside Park to name just one.

“Childhood Cancer Research received $10,000 from our now famous Biggest High Tea and we got on board with other clubs within the district to help the Port Stephens Domestic Violence Core & Cluster,” said Ms Clark.

Port

Stephens Council

“All charities, schools, churches and community groups benefited from our endeavours. We Care Connect received a Christmas Toy drop, a Winter Clothes appeal and even a new fridge for their new premises,” she said.

“$4000 was donated from a Bunnings barbecue appeal for Chloe, a young girl navigating leukemia. The strain on family finances when this occurs is enormous and we are happy to help.

The added support from her family, friends, sports groups and the like was truly uplifting. You could say ‘where there is a need, we will endeavour to help’.”

Apart from the monetary assistance given, the Lions Club are proud to participate in a variety of projects that assist in other ways.

Plenty of support has been given to the Lions Eye Health program, which is fundamental in the early detection of eyesight issues in our young children.

This can have a profound impact on their learning ability.

“School Breakfast Club, School Sports Shirts, Tidy Town projects, the Police DV

Public Notices

q Raymond Terrace Lions stalwarts Eileen Findley, Annette Clark and Bob Findley pictured during their Winter Clothing Appeal for We Care Connect.

day at Lakeside and not to forget our most valued Driver Reviver campaign,” Ms Clark said.

“The hope is that we have saved a life or two by simply being there. We are extending

LODGED BETWEEN 28/06/2026 AND 05/07/2026 ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL 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.

the times that we open the kiosk up at 12 Mile as the traffic on our roads just gets busier.

“All this work can only be possible because of our members, but like all

volunteer groups we need more.

“More people who want to make a difference, more people who want to help, more people who care about the homeless, the disadvantaged, and at times, the unfortunate within our community.”

For more information email raymondterrace.nsw@ lions.org.au

Looking back on 50 years of Deadly

By Nico LOMBARDO

ON Monday 6 July, the Port Stephens community celebrated the start of NAIDOC Week 2026 with an official Flag Raising Ceremony held at Port Stephens Council’s Administration Building, Raymond Terrace.

“50 Years of Deadly” was the theme of this year’s NAIDOC Week, celebrating the long-running strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“This year’s theme marks a milestone,” Mayor Leah Anderson said.

“It’s a tribute to the people who built this movement, the elders who stood firm, the organisers who made space, the artists who turned

flags to signal the start

resistance into expression, and the communities who keep showing up year after year.”

Worimi Elder Aunty

Lorraine Lilley performed a Welcome to Country to start off the ceremony, commemorating the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while reflecting on its future.

“The history is more than 50 years. We go back over 100 years [of fighting] for recognition, rights and equality. It didn’t come, it’s still not here, but we press on, we’ve got to keep on going.

“This is our Country, this is your Country, it’s not just mine, but we need to look after it.”

Andrew Smith, CEO of the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, shared a

Superintendent

similar sentiment, remarking how, despite all the progress that has been made in five decades, there was still a lot of work to be done.

“We’re living in a very, very hostile community mindset, and we’ve got to try and squash that out together,” he said.

“We can’t live in the future; all we’ve got is now. If we don’t start dealing more with exclusion instead of exclusion, respect rather than resentment, and start operating with hope rather than fear, then the legacy we leave is going to be a destructive one.”

While the ceremony was attended by many dozens of people, Worimi Elder Uncle Neville Lilley commented that he was “concerned” at the decreased amount of

New-look Blueys Beach Village

THE final Blueys Beach Village concept design aims to improve pedestrian and motorist safety while enhancing the area’s visual amenity and preserving the area’s relaxed, coastal atmosphere.

The chosen design was adopted by MidCoast

Council following community consultation. Two concept designs were placed on public exhibition for community feedback.

During the consultation period, Council staff had 145 conversations at two drop-in events to discuss the plans. 121 formal

submissions were received, and staff had multiple meetings with stakeholder groups.

At the end of the process, Option 1 was selected. Feedback results showed that option one was preferred by 73 per cent of people who selected an

option.

Director of infrastructure and engineering service, Rob Scott, thanked the community for their engagement.

"Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their ideas and feedback,"

Mr Scott said.

"We heard that pedestrian safety, parking and traffic speed were big concerns for people.

[Option 1 will] make the area suitable for a highpedestrian activity speed zone in the future."

Council will consider

other feedback themes like formal pedestrian crossings, timed parking and speed limits as part of the detailed design.

"This feedback was important as it will guide us while we get the project ready to build,” Mr Scott said.

The project will progress as funding becomes available.

Jacie WHITFIELD 0411 556 079 jacie@newsofthearea.com.au

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Nico LOMBARDO 0416 041 029 nico@newsofthearea.com.au

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Indigenous Storytellers keep sacred traditions alive

FROM Page 1

“We are the fastest-evolving people on the face of the planet, having gone from stone age to digital age, and we are the oldest living culture on the face of the planet. We’re the only people left with an intrinsic connection to an ancient period.”

The event marked its fourth edition and the celebrations were bigger than ever, with special guest Australian Idol Casey Donovan joining in for a performance after the Welcome to Country and the smoking ceremony.

“What began as an idea to support emerging First Nations creatives has grown into something truly special,” said Lara Lupish, founder and editor of the Façon Magazine.

The winner of the scholarship, Jasmine Christie, is a proud Palawa artist, who impressed the judges with her rich and layered paintings inspired by motherhood, healing, ancestry, and shared experiences.

With the $10,000 scholarship, Ms

Christie plans to support the development and expansion of her current body of work, purchasing high-quality materials and accessing studios to continue her creative journey.

The eight other finalists, who had been selected across a variety of differing disciplines, received a $1,000 cash prize, and all their works were exhibited to the public.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson congratulated all the finalists, praising their role in preserving Indigenous history.

“Your exceptional talent, passion, and dedication are demonstrated throughout your work,” Mayor Anderson said.

“And you’re not just creating beautiful things, you’re preserving history, and you’re challenging perspectives. You’re keeping the sacred tradition of storytelling alive and thriving, and you should all be very proud.”

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Council confirms Mambo Wetlands commitment

By Nico LOMBARDO

PORT Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson, alongside East Ward Councillors Mark Watson, Roz Armstrong and Nathan Errington, met with members of the Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group to discuss a revised footprint plan for developments in the Salamander Bay Town Centre.

The meeting, which took place on 9 July, confirmed Port Stephens Council’s previous commitment to not build on the MamboWanda Wetlands Buffer Zone, following intense community backlash, and was described as productive by all parties involved.

According to the Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group, Council assured that there would be no development on the buffer zones near the Tomaree Library and to the north, and that they would investigate rezoning the remaining wetlands as environmentally protected areas.

Mayor Anderson stressed that, despite the change of plans, Council was still committed to delivering housing developments to Salamander Bay.

“Given the smaller footprint, it's expected the development will be higher than previously envisaged, with a building height permitted up to 15 metres on the site,” she said.

Additionally, Council stated that proceeds from future developments would fund local infrastructure improvements, enhancements to the Mambo Wetlands, and ecological studies.

Council's claim that the sale of land around the shopping centre would provide funding for housing development, however, was met with scepticism by community stakeholders, who felt that their numerous submissions for ideas to deliver more housing should be listened to more thoroughly.

Council also reportedly did not agree to temporarily stop any other development on land around the Shopping Centre until matters had been resolved.

Regardless, Council stated that their revised footprint demonstrated a commitment to listening to the community and balancing responsible development with environmental protection.

Cr Armstrong commented favourably on the resolution of the meeting.

“I could not be more pleased to see these outcomes, " she said. “I campaigned for improvements to our environment while ensuring we were able to provide key worker housing. I look forward to working with the Community and Council staff to update the Mambo Wetlands Plan of Management to facilitate additional environmental and cultural recognition and protection.”

The revised footprint will be released with the Council agenda on 3 August, and it will be considered for endorsement at the 25 August meeting.

Rubbish bins on the agenda for Port Stephens Council

FROM Page 1

Organics (FOGO) service from July 2027.

The new service aims to redirect food scraps from general waste to organic waste, and in doing so halve the amount of food waste being sent to landfill.

Under the change, food scraps will be placed in the existing green-lid bin alongside garden organics, instead of the general waste (red-lid) bin.

While weekly collection of the green-lid FOGO bin is confirmed, Council is still determining whether the

red-lid general waste bin will move to a weekly or fortnightly cycle.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said that community feedback guides the decision on the future redlid bin schedule.

Bin sizes and the yellow-lid recycling schedule will remain the same.

Mayor Anderson said the shift would deliver significant environmental benefits and give residents a direct role in shaping the final service design.

“Moving food waste into the green lid bin stops it from creating harmful greenhouse

gases in landfill and reduces how much waste is dumped,” Mayor Anderson said.

“This simple change will give our community the tools to recycle tonnes of organic waste into rich compost every year.”

Port Stephens councillors will consider survey results and financial analysis at the September Council Meeting and are expected at that point to make a decision on the frequency of red-lid bin service..

Residents can share their views through the Waste Services Survey on Council’s website until 4 August 2026.

Native bird flu case sparks 'nightmare' wildlife fears

It's the first known infection in a wild nonmigratory mainland bird rather than a migratory species from the Southern Ocean.

then into scavenging birds like crows, and then further inland and into bush birds," he said.

"What we can expect to see is probably a collapse or a very, very deep crash of many of our breeding species of birds.

"That's the worry."

The worst-case scenario would be if the disease spread into mammal populations, Curtin University Associate Professor Bateman said.

"We have the most unique mammal fauna of anywhere in the world," he said.

that this is a coastal seabird with an overlapping coastal range with migratory seabirds that have previously tested positive for H5," she said.

Ms Collins stressed there was no evidence of mass mortality among wildlife, no infections in commercial poultry or other agricultural settings and the risk to human health remained low.

package, arguing surveillance alone will not be enough if H5 becomes established.

"The best thing we can do for wildlife is to reduce other threats now so they have the best chance of surviving and recovering from disease outbreaks," Dr Booth said.

Testing detected the H5N1 strain in a greater crested tern discovered at

"We're potentially about to face a devastating wildlife emergency," she told AAP. "It's really a worst nightmare."

Wildlife ecologist Bill Bateman said it was a concerning development and the disease could spread inland.

"It is a route for it to spread into our ducks and geese and potentially also

Your local voice in NSW Parliament

The alarm came as CSIRO testing determined another case in a migratory seabird, bringing the total confirmed or presumed H5 cases to 13.

"While this is a concerning development, it is not unexpected and is another sign that our strong biosecurity system is working," she said.

That includes tightening control on invasive cats and foxes that prey on native animals, eradicating invasive species from islands and restoring wetlands to strengthen habitats for aquatic birds.

Bird flu was detected in a petrel found at Horrocks Beach in Western Australia, Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said on Friday.

While the sequencing of the virus could not be determined, the case was considered positive as a precaution.

Two further birds in SA and another in Western Australia have also been confirmed as carrying H5.

A New Zealand fur seal in NSW is reportedly under observation in what could be the first infection in an Australian mammal species.

SA Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven said the tern was an isolated case and there was no evidence of other deaths in the Robe area.

Environmental groups fear the first native bird case is a worrying turning point, warning an entrenched wildlife outbreak could be devastating.

Conservationists are urging the Albanese government to fund a $200 million wildlife resilience

The SA government is leading the response around Robe, on the Limestone Coast, where the tern was discovered, with enhanced surveillance in the area.

Federal experts, including Australia's chief veterinary officer, had met to guide the national response, authorities said.

People have been warned not to touch sick or dead birds or wildlife, to keep pets away and to report unusual deaths or behaviour.

NELSON BAY CANCER PATIENT TRANSPORT GROUP

Is a volunteer group providing the following services to our local community

Scientists were trying to understand how the tern became infected, federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said.

"What we do know is

Volunteer drivers who transport patients to the Newcastle Metropolitan area for cancer 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

Is

Our services are subject to available resources.

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. Phone:

NELSON BAY CANCER PATIENT TRANSPORT GROUP

•

Is a volunteer group providing the following services

Volunteer

Port Stephens Car Show attracts thousands

By Nico LOMBARDO

FOUR hundred custom cars, thousands of people, dozens of stalls and many special guests; on Sunday 12 July, Nelson Bay once again hosted the yearly Port Stephens Car Show to resounding success.

In what has been described as the highlight of the Winterfest, car owners from all over the region got to showcase their vehicles in the streets surrounding the marina.

There was plenty to look at for everyone, with machines ranging from modern to historical, a

few DeLoreans, and even a Batmobile replica.

Australian motorsport legend John Bowe was one of the special guests of the event, and he was more than happy to chat with fellow enthusiasts about his passion for racing.

Mr Bowe was also surprised at the sheer size of the exhibition.

“Three months ago I didn’t know anything about it, and now it’s huge, it’s mind blowing,” he said.

“The whole thing has been a very uplifting experience. Lovely people, big cars, who couldn’t enjoy it?”

Other special guests included Porsche enthusiast Ron Goodman, who showed off his collection, and pilot Matt Hall, who stunned guests with daring air stunts at 400 km/h over the Nelson Bay shore.

The event was a good time even for those less enthusiastic about cars, with plenty of food to go around, live music, family friendly activities and performances by the Marching Koalas and the Sydney Swing Katz.

Another highlight of the day was the Tennis Ball Run, a spectacular raffle in which 4,000 tennis balls were released down a hill.

All the profits from the raffle will go to the Mark Hughes Foundation, a charity active in the fight against brain cancer.

The best vehicles exhibited were awarded prizes, but school children had the chance

to participate too with the cardboard “Green Machine” competition, which was won by the small Salt Ash Public School for the second consecutive year.

planning.

NSW surf club grants available

NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs can now apply for a share of $5.5 million through the NSW Government’s Surf Club Facility Program, to upgrade, rebuild or futureproof the facilities that

keep our beaches safe.

The program backs projects from concept to completion, with grants of up to $1 million available across three categories, including design and

This year's funding round has a focus on climate resilience, ensuring clubs can withstand extreme weather and severe storm events, as well as boosting participation so more people from all backgrounds can get

involved in surf life saving.

Applications for Category 1 close 1pm Monday, 17 August 2026.

Applications for Categories 2 and 3 close 1pm Monday, 31 August 2026.

For further information and to apply visit: https:// www.nsw.gov.au/grantsand-funding

After the extraordinary turnout of this third edition of the Port Stephens Car Show, many locals are curious to see how the exhibition will outdo itself in the future.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson shared her confidence that the show would “get bigger and better year on year.”

More Than Support, A Lifeline

every stage of life.

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Family support programs include early intervention services, child and family counselling, youth counselling and casework, parenting programs, supported playgroups, young parents groups and specialised initiatives designed to strengthen family relationships and improve wellbeing.

For those affected by domestic and family violence, dedicated

services provide practical support, counselling, family safety programs for men, women's recovery groups, legal assistance, healing and recovery services, and education programs that promote respectful relationships and help prevent future violence.

Young people also have access to safe spaces and engaging activities through programs such as The Deck Youth Venue, Habitat Kids Club, Drumbeat, after-school groups, nature play activities and youth mentoring opportunities, helping build confidence, resilience and stronger community connections.

Recognising that financial stress can affect anyone, assistance is available through emergency relief funding, financial counselling, help with Centrelink payments, nointerest loans, tax assistance, tenancy advice and Work and Development Orders, helping people regain financial independence and security.

Housing support remains a vital part of the service network, with early intervention and homelessness assistance, medication support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, the Rent It Keep It program and tenancy advocacy all working to help individuals secure and maintain stable accommodation.

Community wellbeing is further strengthened through inclusive programs including multicultural women's groups,

art therapy, walk and talk groups, health and wellbeing initiatives, and support for people recovering from trauma or navigating difficult life circumstances.

No one should have to face hardship alone. Whether it's a family needing a little extra support, a young person

NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES

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Endless Possibilities

VACANT LAND-Dual

Street Frontage

402 Gan Gan Road

Boat Harbour

3.2 Hectares (8 acres approx.)

Contact Agent for Price Information

OPPORTUNITIES like this are few and far between.

Set on approximately 3.2 hectares (around 8 acres), this unique parcel of land offers space, privacy, and an exceptional coastal position just moments from some of Port Stephens’ most loved beaches.

Beyond this, the land rises to higher ground, with a series of natural flat areas scattered throughout the block. These elevated sections offer the potential to capture outlooks, including possible views back towards One Mile Beach from the upper portions of the site.

Surrounded by highquality homes, including a recently completed awardwinning residence adjacent to the Blanch Street frontage, the area provides a strong indication of what may be achieved in this highly regarded coastal setting.

With dual street frontage to both Gan Gan Road and Blanch Street, the property provides flexibility in how it may be accessed and utilised. The Gan Gan Road side features approximately 1.5 acres of level, mostly cleared land, well screened from the road and complemented by an established fruit orchard.

The location is outstanding - less than 100 metres to the entry of One Mile Beach (via Hannah Parade), under 500 metres to the sand, and approximately 1.2 kilometres to Boat Harbour Beach.

Dorin's Drawings

OPINION & LETTERS

By Paul DORIN On the Couch

Verse of the week

Open letter to my Federal MP

DEAR News Of The Area,

I AM sharing my recent correspondence with Meryl Swanson MP, Member for Paterson. I would like it to be published in the Port Stephens NOTA.

Dear M/s Swanson,

AS our elected Federal MP, I am writing to express my concern about the recently announced changes to the capital gains tax (CGT) system.

These changes were widely understood to be targeted at housing and property investors with the aim to enable first home buyers to buy their first home.

Instead, they have been applied broadly to shares, managed funds, and even superannuation investments.

You must admit this change is purely a tax grab affecting millions of ordinary Australians who rely on

DEAR Jasminda,

By JASMINDA

By Lynne MILES

long‑term growth investment for retirement, ie. superannuation.

Everyone in the Australian workforce, as well as retirees, is affected.

Australians have long been encouraged to invest in the share market, directly or through managed funds and superannuation, as a responsible way to build financial security, especially for retirement.

I am one of those retirees.

The sudden change in the taxation of these investments means the long term investment aims of Australians are depleted through this unfair tax on investing for the future.

This tax grab disproportionately impacts:

• Retirees and pre‑retirees, whose superannuation balances depend heavily on long‑term capital growth.

• Every Australian with compulsory superannuation, or allocated pensions in retirement, will be the losers. Shares and managed funds will undoubtedly distribute higher taxable capital gains as

I am a Doctor of Philosophy. When my husband and I recently travelled interstate, he put my title down as Doctor for our booking. I was unaware of this until the boarding staff greeted me as Doctor Ronstad, wishing me a good flight and thanking me for being on board. I was also moved to a better seat, offered more wine than other passengers, and generally treated like a person of substance for the first time in my flying life. Should I continue to use this title in the future?

G. Ronstad.

Flight attendants receive extensive training, making mental notes of who is boarding the plane.

They keep their eye out for strapping young men (or women) who will be helpful in an emergen cy; anxious flyers, who will want to jump out of the plane during pe riods of turbulence; the elderly and infirm, who may require additional assistance; the sporting teams, who want to get out of their seats at regular intervals.

They also look out for medical practitioners, who may be parti cularly useful during a mid-flight emergency.

That is the category, Dr Ronstad, that the attendants put you in. They greeted you with en thusiasm and gave you extra at tention because they knew they would be able to call on you if Mary Smith in row three had a stroke, or Peter Howard in row 22 knocked himself out while trying to get his bag out of the overhead locker.

Dear Dr Ronstad,

May I call you that?

The title of doctor brings with it certain expectations.

Though I am not discounting the many years of study involved in attaining your Doctorate of Phi losophy, there is a level of pre sumption involved when there is a doctor on board a flight.

dividends as a result of the tax grab.

Australians did not expect a policy that was initially expected to be framed around property speculation to become a tax hike on superannuation, managed funds, and long‑held share portfolios.

These changes also undermine confidence in the Labor Government and the stability of Australia’s tax system, particularly for those who have invested

Thermal waste - just hot air?

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE NSW EPA calls it "thermal treatment of waste" (Council queries... 2 July). Isn't that just ol' fashioned burning rubbish?

Decades ago, Tomago was chosen to smelt aluminium due to cheap, plentiful energy and water.

Why should Hunter residents have to accept potentially

dangerous waste from Sydney dumped here? We're not some third world country.

What protections are there to stop toxins escaping into air, water and soil? Remember four letters, PFAS?

Large scale rubbish burning is prohibited in NSW except for designated Energy from Waste precincts, so what makes this

treatment different? Why isn't more waste recycled closer to where it's generated?

Burning creates greenhouse gases, so what will this project do for our National and State Net Zero climate targets?

The NSW Government spends money encouraging more tourists to flock to our "Incredible by nature” area yet visitors create pollution via

Most farmers support renewable energy

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE media narrative suggesting regional people oppose renewable energy projects when the data unarguably shows the opposite is now the subject of a published academic paper ("Growing discontent on data centres as farmers fear renewable rollout repeat, The Land, 7/6).

Poll after poll after poll, from Porter Novelli, 89 Degrees East, CSIRO and more, all find huge support for local clean energy projects with opposition much less (but amplified by media coverage and social media algorithms that

promote conflict).

Recent polling in April showed overall local support for clean energy projects at 63 per cent and opposition at 17 per cent. In coal regions, Hunter showed support of 60 per cent and opposition at 17 per cent, Gladstone showed support of 65 per cent and opposition of 17per cent, and the Latrobe Valley showed support of 60 per cent and opposition at 18 per cent. In Illawarra the support was 68 per cent and the opposition 12 per cent, Central West Orana support was at 60 per cent and opposition at 20 per cent; in western Victoria the support was 69 per cent and

opposition was 12 per cent. Even in New England, support held strong at 55 per cent with opposition less than half that figure at 24 per cent.

Professor Rebecca Colvin's peer reviewed paper, published in Science Direct, finds that in addition to social media and media promoting conflict, people are more likely to speak up against things than for them.

Farmers for Climate Action represents 8000 farmers across Australia. Our "Billions in the Bush" report found Australian farmers are on track to make a billion dollars in total from clean energy rent by 2030.

loaf?', but I digress.

A quick review of some recent doctoral theses highlights the is sue.

While no doubt of great inte rest to the author, ‘An ideotype of a short season, late sown wheat for a changing Australian climate’ or ‘A Kauwhau Whakapapa Reading of Genesis 49:1-50:14’, or ‘Molecu lar insights into oyster neuroendo crine control of gonal maturation’, are areas of analysis that are not going to help when you are es corted out of your seat to deliver an onboard tracheostomy using nothing more than a wooden fork, a drop down oxygen mask and some hand sanitiser.

For this reason, Dr Ronstad, may I suggest that your husband puts you down as plain old Mrs Ronstad for future flights.

As you would know, Dr Ronstad, the doctoral requirement for original research means that PhD subject matter is increasingly obscure, and though important in certain contexts, it has limited ap plicability to most situations (inclu ding life or death ones).

It also has limited social cache at dinner parties, where you will be asked about your research to pic by well meaning types with the query quickly followed by a glazed expression and a polite conver sational segue, like, 'Is that a cob

responsibly over many years based on the rules that were in place.

I, and many other Australians, urge the Government to reconsider the scope of these CGT changes and provide clarity on why a reform originally understood to target housing affordability has instead become a sweeping tax increase on retirement savings and investment.

Australians deserve a tax system that is fair, predictable, and aligned with building a retirement

plane/car exhausts travelling, plus generate extra waste while here

Yet the same Government is about to declare it a wasteland, literally.

If the smelter wants more cheap energy, why doesn't owner Rio Tinto put its money where its mouth is on sustainability instead of asking for handouts from NSW rate/taxpayers?

What about its major energy supplier AGL, where does it stand on this?

Modern solar contracts pay up to $1500 per hectare per year while the farmer continues to graze sheep underneath.

Modern wind farms typically pay $40,000 per wind turbine per year in rent to the farmer, while cattle and sheep continue to graze around it.

Hosting solar and wind projects is entirely voluntary and how a farmer chooses to farm on their land is their choice.

If farmers do not stay united around that principle, farming will become very difficult.

Regards, Verity Morgan-Schmidt, CEO, Farmers for Climate Action.

Though it doesn't carry the same level of prestige, you will be able to enjoy your flight, relaxed in the knowledge that you have not been misidentified as a medical expert.

Instead, you will have hours to ponder new research questions.

Perhaps you could make preli minary notes as to why interstate flights offer Beef Rendang as the only lunch option on a plane with 485 passengers and two toilets?

That question certainly kept me occupied (along with both toi lets) on my last flight.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

nest egg that would keep them from relying on government support in their older years.

Will your Labor Party consider revisiting this unfair CGT on working Australians and retirees and growth investments?

If I am incorrect in my assumptions, would you ‘please explain’?

Regards, Paul Davies, Medowie.

Please don't tell us energy hungry data centres need more power to feed the voracious appetites of AI, mostly owned by tax minimising, global IT players.

Full marks to Port Stephens councillors for demanding answers and community consultation from the NSW Minister. We wait with bated breath … Regards, Kassia Klinger, Salamander Bay.

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Shark! Shark! Who said shark?

Stinker's Stories

By John 'Stinker' CLARKE

IT’S about this time of the year that we all become increasingly jumpy at the prospect of coming face-to-face with a creature from the deep.

Port Stephens has a long history involving sharks.They were so common in the 1930s that an industry was based in Pindimar to catch and process sharks for their oil, skin, fins and meat.

After catching more than 20,000 sharks the business closed down because there were very few sharks remaining.

Our pioneering fishermen will all tell you that sharks were so common that all fishing boats carried a gun.

The water around the Fishermans Coop in Nelson Bay was a favoured shark gathering spot where they could be seen cruising around the boats searching for an easy feed.

I am regularly asked: "Are there many sharks around Port Stephens?"

The answer is: "Yes, there are, not as many as there were."

Just about every boat-owning fisherman that I know has either sighted or had an encounter with a shark and the mullet-haulers on Fingal Beach last season were continually harassed by a school of the big predators.

My message is: learn to live with sharks rather than becoming paranoid and terrified of the big fish.

I oppose any culling and it is interesting to note that the Port Stephens beaches from Boxy to Birubi have never been netted in 150 years and we have never had a fatal shark attack.

Yes, there have been serious shark incidents that are unfortunate, however my feeling is that we remain aware of the presence of sharks but don't overreact.

The squid mystery remains

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

I WAS reading through some old articles I wrote years ago when I came across this story of squid.

I can clearly recall when catching squid did not offer a challenge. Anywhere from Kiddies Corner in Fingal, south to Big Rocky, squid could be found in every protected bay.

q What once was a typical catch of squid that could be caught in all the quiet bays from

Simply by tossing out a squid jig and slowly retrieving resulted in an immediate strike, where a squid would grab the jig and take off in the opposite direction.

Once near the boat or shoreline, other accompanying squid could be seen chasing the jig.

The following story tells of the simplicity to catch squid.

The big question now is – where are the squid? Where have they gone?

There are a few odd catches being reported but nothing like it was in the good old days.

***

TIME to dust off the “Squidometer” as the slippery customers cruise into the quiet bays from Tomaree to Rocky Point before entering the port and resting over the weed beds in Shoal Bay.

Thumping green-eyed squid love

Free asbestos collection and disposal from 2027

FROM next year, NSW households will be eligible for the free pick-up and disposal of asbestos waste.

The decision comes as part of the NSW Government’s Asbestos Plan of Action and will signal the beginning of a two-year trial.

It is anticipated that the new service will lead to less illegal dumping of asbestos.

Illegal dumping is a major problem across the state, costing councils millions of dollars each year to clean up. The waste is often found in illegally dumped materials – in part because of the cost to dispose of it correctly.

The free trial is one key part of a state-wide response to the Chief Scientist’s report into asbestos in the waste stream. Its goal is to improve the way NSW handles asbestos waste and create safer environments for workers and the

community.

Kim Brislane, CEO Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI) said that more than 4000 Australians died each year from historical exposure to asbestos.

“We must be vigilant about the risk of asbestos and take precautions when it is detected in the workplace or the home,” Ms Brislane said.

“ADDRI supports patients and families affected by asbestos-related diseases every day, giving us a clear understanding of the devastating impact of asbestos exposure. That's why we strongly support action to better protect workers and the broader community from this preventable risk.”

The Government has earmarked $16 million for its Asbestos Plan of Action. Of that, $9 million will be used to establish the trial household collection program.

The Plan was developed through strong consultation including with SafeWork NSW, the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Institute, industry, workers and the NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee.

“One in three houses built before 1990 contains asbestos – that’s why it’s important to make it cheaper and easier for NSW families to dispose of these

this place, particularly Shark Bay off the Outer Light, the southern bay on Boondelbah Island and Esmeralda Cove on Broughton.

Not what you would call a real challenge, squid simply cannot resist a prawn jig moving past their noses at a gentle walking pace.

They do show surprising pace as they zoom towards the jig before striking with their candles – long tentacle-like extensions. Once “hooked” on the jig they attempt to swim away in steady, jerky movements.

What is required, when you have one on your line, is to maintain pressure without pulling too hard, as it is possible to break the tentacles off.

As the cranky squid nears the boat or rock that you are standing on – look out! These strange creatures have an amazing ability to squirt you with a black, gooey mixture that is common to their cousins, octopus and cuttlefish.

I’ve tried everything possible to

materials,” said Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.

“To avoid the looming waste crisis in NSW, we need to increase resource recovery and reduce barriers to safely disposing of problematic waste types, like asbestos.

avoid being “inked” however to date I have not discovered any way to get out of the road.

My only advice is to wear a black shirt and don’t worry about it.

Once caught the fun really starts.

To clean a squid is no simple task but it is important that you save the head and gut section as it is sensational snapper and mulloway bait.

The washed canopy is generally sliced into rings in preparation for the kitchen.

Crumbed, salt and peppered or simply tossed on the BBQ, calamari is great tucker.

Here’s a tip – the big squid can be a bit on the tough side. To tenderise them, cover the squid rings with blended kiwi fruit for no more than 30 minutes. You will be surprised at how tender the squid will become.

If you have any ideas as to the disappearance of squid send me your thoughts: stinkerfishing@yahoo.com

“We’re acting upon recommendations to tighten the entire supply chain – making sure it is safer for workers, better for industry and trusted by the community.”

OUTLETS

Where you can pick up your paper

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Anna Bay Tavern

Anna Bay Bakery

BYO Cellars Anna Bay

Ingenia Holiday Park

Middle Rock Retirement Village

Anna Bay Village

Seawinds Village

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Woolworths Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay Newsagent

Nelson Bay Real Estate

Seabreeze Hotel

Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre

Tackleword Port Stephens

Essence Cafe

Dolphin Watch Cafe

West Diggers

Harbourside Haven

Bernie Thompson Village

Shoal Bay Pharmacy

IGA Shoal Bay

John Patterson

Bill King Aged Care

Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay

Fingal Bay Cafe

Regis Aged Care

Corlette Store

Uniting Care

Homestead Village

Sandy Shores

Big4 Soldiers Point

Soldiers Point Bowling Club

Foodworks Salamander Bay

Wanda Beach Pharmacy

Mobil Salamander Bay

Caltex Salamander Bay

Coles Salamander Bay

Natural Tucker

Woolworths Salamander Bay

Horizons Golf Club

Sunrise Lifestyle Resort

Seaham General Store

Opal Aged Care

Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace

Angeez Takeaway Raymond

Terrace

Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace

Terrace Central Plaza Post Office

Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza

Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza

MarketPlace Woolworths

Raymond Terrace Shell

Raymond Terrace Library

Lakeside Newsagent

R&R Property

Foodworks Lakeside

Lakeside Leisure Centre

Muree Golf Club

Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash

Tanilba Bay Nursing Home

Tanilba Bay Retirement Units

Coles Tanilba Bay

Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay

Tanilba Newsagent

Post Office Tanilba Bay

Blue Marine Services

Chemist Lemon Tree

Club Lemon Tree

Tilligerry RSL

Tilligerry Real Estate

Coles Medowie

7-Eleven Medowie

Medowie Newsagent

Medowie Pharmacy

Woolworths Medowie

Medowie Social

Medowie Football Club

BP Servo Medowie

Pacific Dunes Golf Club

Metro Servo (Airport Side)

Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)

Stay away from Southern Right Whales

THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has issued a Special Order for all vessels to stay at least 500 metres, and swimmers 100m, away from all Southern Right Whales in NSW waters.

The Order will be in place until 30 November 2026 when the breeding and calving season ends in NSW.

Southern Right Whales attract a lot of attention as they stay close to beaches and move slowly on the surface. Although incredibly rare, they are easily spotted when they visit.

The Order comes after a mother and calf were recently spotted off Sydney, with curious boaters and locals venturing close to the pair.

The NPWS citizen science project ‘Right Whale ID’ has tracked individual whales through their unique white facial callosities for the past 6 years. Research has found that even a single swimmer approaching too enthusiastically can trigger a significant negative behavioural response in the whale.

Identifying one of the handful or so Southern Right Whales off the NSW Coast each whale season, as opposed to one of the 40,000 humpback whales, is fairly simple.

Any slow moving, 14-16 metre long whale which is 500m or less off an ocean beach could be a Southern Right Whale. Identifying features include:

• a distinctive V-shaped blow when they exhale

• large broad body size, absence of a dorsal fin

• white markings (skin growths) on their faces and heads known as ‘callosities’

• the tail/fluke is geometrically angular and usually black on both top and bottom sides.

Unlike Humpbacks, mother and calf Southern Right Whales spend more than 90 per cent of their time in waters shallower than 20m, and often less than 500m from shore.

While nursing they move very slowly, engaging in a still, energy-saving behaviour called ‘logging’, which is floating at the surface for long periods.

These behaviours make them highly susceptible to disturbance from overly curious people swimming, paddling or boating too close for the mum’s comfort.

Disturbances can cost the animals precious energy budget as their responses often include significant increases in swim distances as they try to evade them. The disturbance effect is seen in tracking data over subsequent days.

NPWS asks people to comply with the keep-away distances to help protect these mammals.

Members of the public, partner organisations and NPWS staff will collect witness accounts when people venture too close to Southern Right Whales and proceed with investigations where warranted. Noncompliance could result in fines or court appearances.

If anyone spots a Southern Right Whale please report to NPWS or ORRCA hotlines on 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) or (02)

q A Southern Right mother and calf off the Mid North Coast. Picture: NSW NPWS.

9415 3333 immediately, which allows the Right Whale ID team to get on site as soon as possible.

“Doing the right thing by Southern Right Whales means the southeast Australian population has a better chance of recovering,” said NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service marine wildlife project officer Andy Marshall said.

“I would like to think that future generations will be able to see these incredible animals and be awed by them, in the same way we are today.”

Port Stephens under-14 netballers earn NSW blue patches and runners‑up honours

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens representative netball coach Felicity Pacevski knew she had a special group of young athletes when she took over the reins of the under-14 squad.

The experienced mentor realised her charges were capable of bigger things after the team produced encouraging results at various representative carnivals in the Hunter region.

An ecstatic Felicity beamed with pride when the Port Stephens under-14s earned the coveted blue patch as Division Four runners up at the recent State Junior Netball titles at Narellan Sports Hub.

The team’s relentless defence, composure under pressure and belief in one another made for an incredible campaign.

Brunswick-Byron claimed the State title after finishing top-of-the-the-table on 33 points - edging out Port Stephens and Casino on 32 points with Blayney fourth (31) in one of the most hotly contested divisions at the prestigious three-day event.

Port Stephens secured second spot, winning 16 of their 19 fixtures and losing only three.

Coach Pacevski told News Of The Area that the team demonstrated incredible grit, determination and resilience throughout the

entire representative season.

“They wore the Port Stephens colours with pride, displayed outstanding sportsmanship and gave 100 per cent every time they stepped onto the court,” she said.

“Watching their growth, commitment and unwavering support for one another has been inspiring. It has been an absolute privilege to coach such a dedicated and respectful group.

“I couldn’t be prouder of everything they have achieved, not only as netballers but as wonderful young women” she added.

Felicity was supported by assistant coach Katie Thornton and manager Raelene Fogarty.

Port Stephens won five of their seven opening day clashes - posting victories over Muswellbrook (19-15), Narrabri (25-16), Wollondilly (24-16), Forbes (21-12) and Griffith (24-11) and narrow losses to Cowra (15-14) and Blayney (13-11).

The team remained unbeaten on day two after toppling Temora (21-8), Armidale (235), Sapphire Coast (19-10), Gunnedah (294), Grafton (16-9) and Goulburn (28-5) and extended the streak on the final day with wins over Woolgoolga (32-6), Leeton (25-9), Quirindi (24-19) and Coolamon Comets (3411).

A highlight was the 23-9 victory over eventual champions Brunswick-Byron.

SPORT

Casino snapped Port Stephens’ 13-match winning streak with a 23-13 triumph in the final round robin match.

In a massive team effort, the Port Stephens side were best served by talented midcourters Skyla Barrett, Clair Cousins, Sarah Smith and Chartreuse Chivers; goal attack and shooters Maalaa McLennan and Liliana Rainima plus tough defenders Lexi-Rose Jackson, Zahlia Stone-Krznaric, Isla Walton and Hope Tierney.

Port Stephens Netball Representative convenor Nadina Marsh said the association’s three teams - under-12s, under-13s and under14s - wore the blue, grey and white with pride “demonstrating resilience, determination, teamwork and typical Port spirit each time they stepped onto the court.”

“Every player gave their all, supported one another and represented our association with true sportsmanship” she reflected.

“Our youngest representatives (under12s) embraced every challenge, continued to learn and improve and never stopped fighting for each other to finish 14th overall while our under-13s improved each match to finish 17th overall.

“A heartfelt thank you to our amazing coaches and managers, whose countless volunteer hours, passion and commitment made this experience possible,” she said.

SUDOKU

Rusty Gropers crash to 18-8 rugby loss to Cooks Hill Brown Snakes

By Chris KARAS

NELSON Bay’s first grade rugby team’s minor premiership hopes in the Hunter Suburban Mens Presidents Cup A Grade competition hang in the balance.

After a two-week layoff, the injury-riddled Gropers were left smarting after an 18-8 loss to the fourth-placed Cooks Hill Brown Snakes last weekend at Empire Park Bar Beach.

Played on a gluepot track, the rusty Nelson Bay XV produced their worst performance of the season and slipped to third spot on the competition ladder on 25 points.

Scone Brumbies leapfrogged the Gropers into second spot on 28 points after their weekend bye.

A sluggish Nelson Bay were slow off the mark, with the Brown Snakes stunning their rivals with two quick tries and a penalty goal to jump to a 15-0 lead.

The Bay side turned to

back row forwards Mitch Workman, Hayden Wilson and skipper Sam Rocher for inspiration and the tireless trio delivered with bonejarring defence.

Number 8 Workman was one of the best on the ground and lifted his team-mates with his power running and tough tackling to earn the Players’ Player award.

The Gropers showed their grit with several searching runs by fullback Brayden McMaster from kick returns as the giant Cooks Hill pack began to tire.

Workman and lock Ronan O’Connell made headway through the Brown Snakes defence and set the platform for hard-running props

Nathan McLeay and Ross Buchan.

With the gusty breeze playing havoc on both teams’ lineout throws it negated one of Nelson Bay's strengths and turnovers resulted in Cooks Hills gaining good field position.

Diminutive flanker Wilson ripped into his large

opponents with several punishing tackles to turn over the ball, and slick work from halves Kade Redmond and Liam Pietrasek put damaging centre Marcel Ikinofo into space, but to no avail.

Trailing 15-0 at the break and needing a lift, Nelson Bay coach

Michael Squires replaced his props with seasoned campaigners Zion Takarua and Ciaran Murphy taking the field along with winger Scott Tristan and flanker Zac Summerfield.

Murphy was returning to Nelson Bay after a 10-year stint with Irish rugby club Enniscorthy and relished the warmer winter weather.

The Gropers hit back after the interval by pushing the larger Cooks Hill pack off the ball, enabling fly half Liam Pietrasek and centre Harry Andersen to position flying winger Scott Tristan to score in the corner.

A Pietrasek penalty goal bridged the gap to 15-8 before centre Ikinofo spurred his team mates with several

bumping runs.

Flanker Rocher and Workman began to dominate the aerial battles in the lineout and the injection of centre Danny Arnfield, half back Jake Langsford, flanker Ollie Edwards and forward Shane Jarvis gave the Gropers a massive lift.

Do‑or‑die for Northern Hawks in Denton Cup

q Northern Hawks face a tough task to qualify for the Newcastle Rugby League Denton Engineering Cup finals after an 18-14 loss to The Entrance Tigers last weekend.

Nelson Bay Croquet Club

By David WILSON

THOMPSON Trophy B Grade

The intra-club Thompson Trophy Golf Croquet B Grade (handicaps 5 to 8) was played

on Sunday 5th July 2026. 5 members entered and the competition was level play single round-robin of 4 games each, over 13-hoops with a 50 minute time limit.

Overnight rain eased to a beautiful winter morning, cool but clear bright. Blue skies …. until just before lunch-time when rain set-in and the final rounds were completed in heavy rain.

The winner was David Wilson, going through undefeated, beating Colin Bailey 7-1, Les Guzowski 7-3. Faby Batho 7-5 and finally Greg Long 7-5. Greg Long 2nd on hoop difference from Les Guzowski with 2 wins each.

A great day despite the very wet conditions.

By Chris KARAS

NORTHERN Hawks’ first-grade rugby league team continues to walk a Newcastle Rugby League Denton Engineering Cup finals tightrope.

Steve Simpson’s young charges are bracing themselves for a challenging three week assignment in a bid to qualify for the 2026 finals series.

The Entrance Tigers dented the Hawks’ top five hopes after posting an 18-14 victory at Lakeside Sporting

Despite several half chances from Andersen and Pietrasek, the Gropers were unable to capitalise.

This Saturday the Gropers face Muswellbrook Heelers in a must-win clash at Highbrook Park to stay in touch with the competition leaders.

Complex in Raymond Terrace last Sunday.

With three rounds to be completed in the regular season, the embattled Northern outfit must beat cellar-dwellers Macquarie Scorpions this Sunday at Lyall Peacock Field and chalk up victories over secondranked South Newcastle Lions on Saturday August 1 at Lakeside Sporting Complex and Lakes United Seagulls on August 8 at Cahill Oval to have any chance of appearing in the big end-ofseason matches.

The Hawks have dropped to eighth spot following last weekend’s loss and are desperate to return to the winners’ circle after disappointing displays in recent weeks.

Strong running Tigers’ second-rower Kye Hopwood nabbed a try double after

Coming off a rousing 22-20 victory over ladder leaders Singleton, the Heelers will stage their Ladies Day so a big crowd is anticipated for a 3pm kick off.

star fullback Tony Pellow opened the scoring with a neat four-pointer that was converted by centre Corey Fenning.

Northern were guilty of critical errors but remained in the contest with tries by tireless lock and skipper Luke Higgins, powerful winger Timanu Alexander and hooker Takarei Kuru.

The Hawks were bestserved by the dynamic Alexander, Kuru, Higgins, back-rower Ethan Campbell and rugged prop Ofahiki Ogden.

Both teams finished with three tries apiece with the trusty boot of Fenning proving the difference.

The Tigers centre landed all three conversions while Hawks’ fullback Shaq Saunders could only manage a single conversion from his three attempts.

Tilligerry Social Golf Club

10/7/26

OUTRIGHT winner. Barry Disch. 37 Runner up. John McDonald. 35 Bonus points winner. Bob West. 37 Ball winners. Matt Baldwin. 34 Grahame Glover. 34 Ron Dews. 33

Ed Martin. 33

Brian Riddell. 32

Peter Martyn. 32 Bradman Award. Ron McKay Ntp4th.

A. Matt Baldwin. B. Wendy Couvaras D&C7th.

A. Matt Baldwin. B. Bob West

Muree Golf Results

By Lee RANKIN

2. Jason Hartcher 72

3. Stuart Henderson 75 C Grade 1. David Fayth 71

2.Rodger Lye 73

3. Mitchel Trappel Styles 74

D&C18th.

A. Barry Disch.

B. Bob West Money hole.

A. Hugh Potts. B. Grahame Glover There were 15 starters today. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game Friday 17/7/26 Single Stableford.

1. Tyson Hay 37

2. Mitchell Trappel/ Styles 33

Pro Pin Luke Tranter Wednesday 8th July. Medley Stableford. A Grade 1.Paul Foster 39 2. Peter Flanagan 37 B Grade

2BBB Tyson Hay/ John Waanders 45 Pro Pin Lancelot Slade

Rugby sensation Zoe Smith steers NSW to national junior Sevens title

By Chris KARAS

SHOAL Bay schoolgirl Zoe Smith has taken another giant step on her exciting rugby journey.

The talented Hunter Sports High School student covered herself in glory at the Australian Schools and Junior Rugby Championships last week on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast – helping the NSW under-16s All Schools women’s rugby team bring home the Sevens national title at the Kawana Sports Precinct.

It was another outstanding feat by 16-yearold Zoe, who earlier this year received the Port Stephens Council Sportsperson of the Year Award during Australia

Day celebrations for her meritorious achievements on the rugby field.

The boom hooker turned in powerful performances throughout the tournament and proved a key figure as NSW toppled the number one Queensland team 26-24 in a pulsating championship final.

“Being crowned national champions is an amazing feeling and to upstage our main rivals Queensland for the trophy makes the victory more sweeter,” an ecstatic Zoe told News Of The Area.

“Our preparation couldn’t have been better and all the girls put in plenty of hard work and showed tremendous spirit to achieve our goal.”

After lifting the national Sevens title, versatile Zoe stayed on for the 15-a-side component of the championships where she represented NSW Country with distinction as a flanker.

She scored the only two tries in her team’s 12-10 loss to NSW City first up and played strongly in wins over Queensland Country, South Australia and Queensland City as the girls finished runners up in the 15-a-side format.

It was a huge honour for the Nelson Bay Gropers junior product, who dreams of one day pulling on a Wallaroos jumper for the Australian women’s rugby side.

Last year, the super-fit

Smith etched her name in the Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Club record books when she became the first female Gropers junior to chalk up 100 matches for the club.

A feature of Zoe’s play is her copybook defence, ball skills and high work rate –traits she has carried into the girls’ rugby ranks over the past three seasons.

She is also a promising middle with the All Schools, Hunter Hornets and Nelson Bay representative touch football teams and helped the all-conquering Souths Lions club capture the Hunter Junior League Women's Tackle Under-16 Division One premiership last season as a strong running prop forward and winger.

Port Stephens Power AFL women topple Panthers

q Port Stephens Power AFL trio Molly Goudie, Jenny Rojas and Grace Astley have turned in skillful performances this season in the Hunter Central Coast

Plate competition.

By Chris KARAS

MIDFIELD dynamo Jenny Rojas is fast-developing into an on-field talisman for Port Stephens Power in the AFL Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Senior Women’s Plate competition.

The 17-year-old warrior might be one of the youngest competitors in the 2026 series but in recent fixtures has shown a maturity that belies her years.

Rojas played a starring role in the Power’s 30-23 victory over Terrigal-Avoca Panthers last Saturday at

Port Stephens netballers

FROM Page 24

a top two ranking - producing unbeaten six-game streaks on the opening and final days at the Narellan Sports Hub.

Woy Woy were declared overall champions on 34 points, winning 17 of their 18 fixtures and tasting defeat only once to third-ranked Kurri Kurri (13-12) in a finalday thriller.

Taylah Whitty’s welldrilled Nelson Bay outfit showed their champion qualities to finish runners-

up on 31 points with 15 victories, a draw and two losses.

“Leading into the State titles we gave ourselves a realistic chance of a top four finish but to actually come second is an incredible feat,” a proud Taylah told News Of The Area at the conclusion of the championships.

“The girls were amazing over the entire three days and rose to the challenge with courageous team efforts and sharp performances across the court,” said Taylah,

Hylton Moore Oval before damaging an ankle in the forward line.

She joined midfieldforward Mel McCartney (neck injury) on the Power casualty list post-match, with both players making major contributions in a lowscoring tussle.

It was the Port Stephens club’s sixth win from 10 matches in the Senior Women’s Plate this season and keeps the team entrenched in fifth spot on 24 points.

Best-on-ground for the courageous Power side were

talented midfield/winger

Grace Astley, tireless ruck Bianca Cattelini and midfield ace Maz Masiero.

Experienced Port Stephens skipper Josie Johnson told News Of The Area that the victory over the Panthers was the “perfect bounce-back” after the 4127 loss to Cardiff Hawks the previous week.

“We were down on troops but managed to keep the Panthers at bay after opening up a handy lead,” Johnson said.

Another in-form player for Port Stephens this season

is hard-working midfielder Molly Goudie.

Other Power players to shine include Jayde Everill, Jemma Astley, Renee Selby and Alysha Fewster. The Port Stephens Power club will hold its sixth annual Joey’s Round this Saturday at Medowie’s Ferodale Oval in memory of baby Joseph Don Potter. Power will have a rematch with Terrigal-Avoca in the Senior Women’s Plate clash that kicks off at 12 noon, followed by the Senior Men’s Plate fixture between Port Stephens and Singleton Roosters from 2pm.

make mark at State junior titles

who coached Nelson Bay to a State under-12 Division 4 championship title back in 2023.

Nelson Bay couldn’t have wished for a better start to their championship campaign on the opening day - winning all six matches against Bellingen (19-1), Southern Highlands (18-7), Cessnock (12-3), Inverell (97), Manning Valley (18-9) and Scone (14-10).

They stretched their winning streak to nine with victories over Woolgoolga

(24-4), Quirindi (15-4) and Macleay (16-4) the following day before experiencing back-to-back losses to Great Lakes (15-11) and Woy Woy (25-7) and ending the day with a confidence-restoring triumph over Tamworth (178).

With the top three positions up for grabs, the Nelson Bay whiz kids stepped up and delivered on the final day as they eked out victories over Griffith (20-8), Queanbeyan (158), West Wyalong (29-8),

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

By Gary WATT

RESULTS from a Stableford competition playing for the Arthur Wright Trophy at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 6th July 2026 with 34 players. Nett Winner : John Clayton, 38pts on c/b. Nett Runner Up : David Hurley, 38pts. Bonus Point Winner : Jim Gill, 38pts

Bonus Point Runner Up : Ron McKay, 37pts. Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole :

Division 1 : Greg Sessions.

Division 2 : Duncan Maclean (v) Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole : Division 1 : John Clayton.

Division 2 : John McDonald. Drive & Chip, 7th Hole : Division 1 : Ralph Brown.

Division 2 : Wayne Smith. Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, : Division 1 : Les Moran.

Muswellbrook (22-2), Lower Clarence (15-8) and an unlucky 11-all result with Kurri Kurri after their rivals snatched a draw with a goal on the buzzer.

Leading the way were midcourt dynamos Faith Karas, Sailor Jenkins, Mia Petrellis and Amarli Buckton who used their speed and court skills to ignite a formidable attack with promising shooters Olivia Morgan, Emily Noble and ace goal attack Bella Edwards.

A crucial component of

Nelson Bay’s winning recipe was the team’s rock-like defence with goalkeeper Gemma Edwards, goal defence Willow Earnshaw and wing defence Jacinta Scott creating plenty of turnovers and intercepts with their bustling style at the back.

Special kudos must go to experienced assistant coach Kerry Whitty, daughter Taylah and manager Tahlia Brien for their impeccable preparation and having the squad in fine tune for the coveted event.

Division 2 : Ross Dobson. Ball Winners : Wayne Smith 37pts, Frank vanDruten 36pts, Denis Barnett 36pts, Karen Harley 36pts, Robbie Kerehoma 36pts, John McDonald 36pts, Graham Woolley 35pts, Jim Asvestas 34pts, Barry Leo 34pts, Duncan Maclean (v) 33pts, Jenny Hale 33pts, Dennis Christie 33pts, and Peter Toth 33pts. Lucky Draw Prize Winner : Graham Woolley.

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR APPOINTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER GROUP MEMBERS TO THE SEAHAM QUARRY COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

Do you want to contribute to your community?

Community Consultative Committees work to improve engagement on State significant projects.

The committee for the SEAHAM QUARRY (the project) will provide a forum for open dialogue between the proponent, Boral Resources (NSW) Pty Ltd and representatives of the local community, stakeholder groups and local council on issues directly relating to the project. Further details of the project can be found on the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure major projects website https:// www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major projects/projects/ seaham-quarry-project

We are looking for a mix of volunteers who live or work locally, may be impacted by the project or are members of a local community or stakeholder group (for example Aboriginal, environmental, social or industry) to join our new SEAHAM QUARRY Community Consultative Committee*.

As a volunteer committee member, you will be expected to contribute constructively to committee discussions, attend an estimated four meetings a year, and communicate information about the project to the committee and the broader community.

For more information, contact Michael Ulph at Michael.ulph@bigpond.com or on 0458 049 847.

If you would like to apply, please address the selection criteria found in the nomination form at www.planning.nsw. gov.au/assess and regulate/development assessment/ community consultative committees .

Completed nomination forms and a supporting letter must be sent by Friday 7 August 2026 to the independent chairperson of the Community Consultative Committee: Michael Ulph at Michael.ulph@bigpond.com

* Please note that employees and contractors of the proponent are generally not eligible for appointment to the committee as a community representative.

Wanted to Buy

War Medals

Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215

Antique china & figurines, Sterling silver items, old gold jewellery, wind up watches & pocket watches, silver proof coin sets. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747

Pets for Sale

TWO seater lounge OZ Design, fabric, VGC 0429 990 351 F260326

WINDSURFING board F2 AXXIS plus boom & bag. 85 liters, No dings 0419 932 992

ELECTRIC chair, does eveything. 2 seater lounge. Ph 0402 207 519

SINGLE bed with some single bed linen included. Medowie Ph 0423 688 327

TABLE tennis table with accessories. Ph 0427 970 636

BUFFET and hutch $100. Ph 0429 945 604

For Sale

FISHER Price walkers x 3. $20 each. Ph 0432 050 619 110626

MENS top quality leather jacket with detachable liner. Purchased in Turkey, as new, suits 40” chest, dark brown. $99 0419 932 992 F260226

For Sale

SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique Make an offer. 4982 3495

large tailor made golf wet weather outfit. $50. 4997 0611

WOMEN’S new jumper M-L. $20. Ph 0493 777 707 F040626

2 x cane chest of drawers (L) 70cm H x 36cm D x 36cm W, $15. (S) 66cm H x 35cm D x 26cm W $10. 3 drawers each 4982 8787

CHAIN tensioner for freight or logging trucks Offers. RT. 4987 1680

CHINA cabinet display unit, 3 glass shelves and storage at bottom. $50 Ph 0403 632 701

ANTIQUE Skillion over the hooks pendulum weighing scale for cattle $90. Ph 6585 7393

BUDGIES - 4 budgies in bird cage. $50. 0418 272 304

CANNA lillies, burgandy and green leaf w/peach flowers. $5ea 0477 827 291

BIKE safety helmets for kids x 3. $20 each Ph 0432 050 619 F110626

BOOTS, leather, ladies made in Canada. EUC $60 4982 8787

BOOTS, ladies, new size 8 $20 0493 777 707

COAT, ladies, new Medium. $50. Ph 0493 777 707

newsofthearea.com.au

COCA-COLA

Memorabilia Collection

$95. 0409 863 898 F030725ALL

COFFEE table, hand crafted, mahogany $100. 0493 777 707

COLLECTORS cards 54 Space Odbodz $100 Ph 0493 777 707

FRIDGE, 4 door with water dispenser, ice maker, spill proof, ex cond, make an offer Ph 0493 777 707

GLASS bottles with lids, suitable for pickles preserves etc., Ph 0458 693 754 F140526

GLASS turbo oven $20; RUSSELL Hobbs Electric steamer $20 LARGE outdoor table $20. 0432 671 259

HEATER . $5. Used working condition Ph 4982 9225

HEDGE trimmer Ryobi, 18v 60cm w/ sweeper. $80. Ph 0408 945 040 F190326

HOMER Simpson Framed Picture, New $100. 0493 777 707F070825

IRON for clothing, brand new, GC. 0493 777 707 F041225

KIDS’ clothing, various sizes, great cond, some new. N’born to size 8. $20 Ph 0432 050 619

COMMODE chair w/ pan. $25. Pick up Tea Gardens. Ph 0417 404 530 F110626

CURTAIN and rod in original packaging. $70 Oslo pencil pleated curtain 270 - 340 x 250cm, colour stone Ph 0417 044 660 F120326

CURTAIN rods and tracks plus all fittings. 5 straight rods for windows 118-164cm plus bay window track and rod for 219cm and 5 other tracks. All in good cond $60. Ph 0410 275 495

DINING table $30. Ph 0429 945 604

DINING table, stainless steel legs. $100. 0493 777 707 F040925

DOONA, new with valance, new with cushions $100 Ph 0493 777 707

DVDs x 250, exc cond great variety. $100 the lot. 0439 440 112 F050326

LADIES ankle boots tan, size 6, BNIB $10. Ph 4982 8628 F110626

LADIES clothes, new size 16-20, 3 bags, make an offer 0493 777 707 F150126

LADIES clothes pants dresses, blousees. Sizes 12-14 new and near new. Make an offer. Ph 0419 409 913 F040626

LAMPS large, new worth $600 selling for $100. Ph 0493 777 707 F290126

LEATHER coat, mens Made in AU. $95. 0428 287 239 F061125

LIFEJACKETS PFD

Level 50. Adults $50 Juniors $40. Good used cond. Located in HN. 0493 078 190

LP records, large mixed collection. Ph 0428 567 653 for info e160726

MATTRESS, suitable for caravan w/extension as new, VGC. $100ono Ph 0402 081 752

MICROWAVE, Omega chrome & black, GC $100. 0493 777 707

NAHWAL tusk, make an offer Ph 0493 777 707

NEW Levi Jeans, size 8, with tags, $30 Ph 0493 777 707

OUTDOOR coffee table new in box. Top black durostone 93 x 93cm Freedom range. 45cm H $55 4981 2713 F070825

OUTDOOR setting New, make an offer ph 0493 777 707

OUTDOOR setting 8 piece, glass top cushioned seats, good condition. $80. Pick up only. Ph 0409 877 099

OVER cab aluminium roll bar Ford AU FB ute Pick up Tea Gardens Ph: 0448 017 520 for pickup details

PAINTING of vase & flowers, framed, 4ft x 2.5ft. $100. 0493 777 707 F070825

PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1,800 ono. 0498 176 876 RTSALL311226

PIRATE ship water activity for children. $80 Ph 0432 050 619 F110626

PNEUMATIC tyres x 6 on 10” diameter rims off tandem boat trailer $90. 0419 932 992

PRINTER Cartridges x2 suitable for Brother printers $20.00 for both. 0418 603 286

QUEEN quilt, with butterfly print & matching pillowcases. $60. Ph 0466 880 639

RIPSTIK, near new $45 Peter 0419 932 992 F080126

RV TV antenna digital upgrade kit

SAND anchor, galv unused. $50. Peter 0419 932 992

SIDE Steps x 2, suit 91 Nissan Patrol, with brackets. $80. 0435 580 192 F190226

SNOW chains. Never used. Suit 13-inch wheels. $80. Peter 0419 932 992 F091025

SOFA bed vgc double $50 Ph 4982 2335

DINGHY fiberglass 2.5m (L) x 1.3m (W) + 2.5 hp Mercury outboard $290 ono. 0423 535 292

TOILET seat aid to increase seat height for disabled or eldery. $40 Ph 0427 122 098

TV unit , new, $100 ph 0493 777 707

TYRE and rim for wheelbarrow, 10” Pneumatic. $40. 0419 932 992

QUINTREX Eclipse 3.15m traveller, 4m galvanised trailer, reg S42731, 10” spare wheel water snake 12v motor 2 lifejackets, plus more $2400. Ph 0407 095 748

2022 Mars Extremo w/annex and awning ARB fridge, VGC Reg TK92VJ. $11,500 Ph 0421 298 742 or 0428 287 239 Camper Trailer

WALKER - 4 wheel Aspire with tray table Perfect condition. Near new. Ph 0408 431 488 $100

WALT Disney, black & white, 8mm movie ‘The Grocery Boy’ in original box $80. 0416 089 747

TIMBER double bed base with 4 drawers underneath. GC. Pick up Medowie. Ph 0466 013 853 WASHING machine Fisher Paykel top loader 8.5kg. Good cond. $50 Ph 0418 443 432

JAYCO Swift 2019 exc cond., 1 owner full service records many extras (e.g., TV and antenna) Easily towed with a car Reg TF28JW. $15,000 ono. Ph 0450 069 155

WETSUIT, waterproof welded seams, O’Neil 3/2mm, L/S, new cond $80. 0421 286 861

WIGGLES chest of drawers. $60. Ph 0432 050 619

125cc, wide tyres fully

WINDSURFING carbon boom. Chinook. $80 Peter 0419 932 992

WINDSURFING sail in new condition, 9m2 Used 3 times. $90. Peter 0419 932 992 F091025

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

THE EXPANSE

SBS VICELAND, 9pm

Science fiction enthusiasts may have already seen this outer-space saga, which premiered on Netflix in Australia, but for any who haven’t tuned into the acclaimed drama, SBS has you covered. Just be sure to put the phone down – this is not a secondscreen show. Based on the series of novels by James S.A. Corey, it’s set hundreds of years in the future and follows detective Josephus Miller (Thomas Jane, pictured) who joins forces with a rogue commander (Steven Strait) to unravel a mystery involving a missing woman.

FRIDAY, July 17

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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (Final, PG, R) 11.00 Race Around The World. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 1.45 Ground Up. (Final, Ml, R) 2.15 The Assembly. (PGl, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. (Final) Monty Don travels across the southwest of Britain.

8.30 Saint-Pierre. (Mav) When a billionaire is found decapitated, Fitz and Arch dig into the victim’s family.

9.15 Gruen. (Final, PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

9.55 Would I Lie To You?

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R)

12.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s

Adventures. 4.20

Of The

5.30

SUNDAY

TREASURE & DIRT

ABC TV, 8.30pm

The locals in Nulla aren’t afraid of anything – least of all law enforcement. The dust-choked opal-mining town in the middle of the Outback does things differently, as big-city detective Ivan Lucic (Michael Dorman, Territory) is about to discover in this unmistakably Australian crime thriller. Teamed up with ambitious rookie Nell Buchanan (Liv Hewson, pictured) to investigate the grisly beheading of a miner, Lucic doesn’t receive a warm welcome when he breezes onto the scene. Based on the novel by Chris Hammer (Scrublands) and filmed in the striking landscape of Coober Pedy, this intriguing mystery hides its secrets both above and below the surface.

TUESDAY

KITCHEN CABINET

ABC TV, 8.30pm

4.00 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (PG, R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. The weekly winners return.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Trade Secret: The Polar Bear Market. Three unlikely allies try to protect polar bears.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 13.

2.30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (R)

4.20 TradFest: The Fingal Sessions. (R) 4.50 Haka Warriors 2023. (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.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 19. Sydney v Adelaide. From the SCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa, R) Jason and Zac head into final dates.

1.35 ICU. (PGa, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

5.00 NBC Today.

In the 15 years Annabel Crabb (pictured) has been catching up with Australian politicians for a personal sit-down in this popular interview series, she’s broken bread with prime ministers past, present and future – but one kitchen has escaped her reach: The Lodge. The journo jumps at the chance to visit the Georgian revival mansion in Canberra, where Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has offered to host her for a lunch of orecchiette pasta with broccolini and anchovies. Their playful chat, while Albo cooks in the grand home’s commercialstyle kitchen, covers his childhood in Camperdown, his downtime with wife Jodie and how 30 years in federal politics prepared him for the country’s top job.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 20. Sydney Roosters v Melbourne Storm.

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

10.45 NRL Origin Story. (Ml, R) Looks at the original “Origin” rule.

11.55 Resident Alien. (Msv, R)

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 MOVIE: The Spiderwick Chronicles. (2008, PG) 9.10 Caper Crew. 10.00 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance Championship. Round 5. 6 Hours of São Paulo. Highlights. 1.35 Snackmasters. 3.00 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire. (2005, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Suburbicon.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Paul and Michelle have outgrown their home. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00

6.00

SATURDAY, July 18

6.05 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

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 Cooper & Fry. (Ma) When a man is found beaten to death, Cooper and Fry travel to a village fighting for survival.

9.05 Doc Martin. (PG, R) Martin attends Stewart’s survival course, but not as a participant like Al and Penhale.

9.50 The Capture. (Final, MA15+v, R)

An impossible situation awaits Carey as she is drawn deeper into Simon’s insidious plan. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 3.50 Odd Squad. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Tummy Tom And The Lost Teddy Bear. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Chopped Junior. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Abbott Elementary. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean: Corsica. (PGa) A look at life on the French island of Corsica.

8.25 Sagrada Familia: Gaudi’s Challenge. (R) A look at Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 14.

2.05 Underground Army. (Ma, R)

3.55 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.55 Beautiful Game Changers. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

Replay. 2.30am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning

Programs. 8.45 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 10.25 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 12.35pm Escape From New York. (1981, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 4.55 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.35 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 8.30 A Walk In The Clouds. (1995) 10.25 Paris, 13th District. (2021, MA15+, Mandarin) 12.25am Late Programs.

SUNDAY, July 19

6.00

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. Lucinda travels to France.

8.30 Treasure & Dirt. (Premiere)

Two detectives arrive in a remote opal town to investigate the beheading of a local miner.

9.30 Believe Me. (Premiere) The victims of a serial rapist fight for justice.

10.20 Cooper & Fry. (Ma, R)

11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.45 Poh’s Kitchen On The Road. (R)

3.10 Doc Martin. (PG, R)

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Isadora Moon. 3.50 Odd Squad. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Superworm. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. 8.10 Epic Adventures With Bertie Gregory. 8.50 Animal Park. 10.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eiffel Tower: Life Behind The Scenes: Pt 3. (PG) Looks at the preparation of the Bastille Day fireworks.

8.30 Structures Of Marvel: Medieval Paris. (R) Takes a look at how Paris’s Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie, two parts of the former royal palace of Palais des Rois, are among the most impressively constructed buildings remaining from the Middle Ages.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 15.

2.25 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

3.25 Beautiful Game Changers: Gel Freire – Keeping Brazil Close. (R)

3.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Final.

VICELAND (31)

Morning Programs. 3.55pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 14. Highlights. 4.55 PBS Washington Week. 5.15 PBS News Compass Points. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.30 The Expanse. 10.25 Sports Gone Wrong. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Third place play-off. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al

SBS MOVIES (32)

Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.50 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 8.45 A Walk In The Clouds. (1995) 10.40 Chain Reaction. (1996, M) 12.40pm Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.45 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 5.00 Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. (1989, PG) 6.40 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 8.30 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022) 10.30 The Rover. (2014, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs.

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

8.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team explores fairytale castles in France.

8.30 MOVIE: Jurassic Park III. (2001, Mv, R) A rescue team is sent to Jurassic Park. Sam Neill, William H. Macy.

10.20 MOVIE: Cocaine Bear. (2023, MA15+dv)

12.20 MOVIE: The Good Sister. (2014, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby Union. Nations Championship. Round 3. Australia v Italy.

10.00 Nations Championship: Australia v Italy Post-Match.

10.30 MOVIE: Three Kings. (1999, MA15+alsv, R)

12.45 The First 48. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Surfing Australia TV. (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. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) Sao and Chrissy are struggling with two mortgages and want to sell so they can start fresh with their beloved pets. 9.40 Ambulance UK. (Mlm, R) An advanced paramedic responds to reports of a man found lying facedown in the road. A call handler deals with a verbally abusive patient who has called the service 35 times in the past year. 12.00 FBI. (Mals, R) Maggie partners with Eva to hunt a killer. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

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6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal)

8.50 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on major breaking news events and long-form investigations of national significance.

9.50 7NEWS: Disappearance Of William Tyrrell. (R) A continued look at the disappearance of William Tyrrell.

11.20 Police Custody USA. (Malv, R)

12.20 Angelyne. (Mls)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

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

4.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

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6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 LEGO Masters Bricktacular. (PG) The teams road-trip to the Bluey universe.

8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

9.30 9News Late.

10.00 The First 48: End Game. (Mav) 11.00 Love Cheats. (Mal) 11.50 Murder In The 21st. (Premiere, MA15+aa)

12.40 Running. Gold Coast Marathon. Highlights. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 CampByMe. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

50 Years Of Star Trek. 3.30 MOVIE: The Cure. (1995, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Elf. (2003) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies. (2014, M) 10.20 The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power. 11.30 Prodigal Son. 1.15am MOVIE: A Savage Christmas. (2023, M) 3.10 MOVIE: Santa Hunters. (2024, PG) 5.10 LEGO Friends Holiday Special. 5.30 Barney’s World. 6am Morning Programs. 12.45pm MOVIE: The Pink Panther Strikes Again. (1976, PG) 2.55 MOVIE: Curse Of The Pink Panther. (1983, PG) 5.10 MOVIE: City Slickers. (1991, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Wild Hogs. (2007, M) 9.30 MOVIE: The Mask. (1994, PG) 11.35 Top 20 Funniest. 12.30am Arrow. 3.00 The Summit. 4.15 My Way. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Hop. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Lady Torque TV. 2.00

6.30 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t been heard. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. (PG) Amateur cooks take to the kitchen. 8.15 Watson. (PGm)

MONDAY, July 20

6.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Final. Replay. 9.30 Alone Australia. (R) Ten survivalists are taken to Sapmi, Finland, where they face a gruelling survival experiment. 11.45 Gomorrah. (Madl, R)

3.15 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (PG, R)

4.10 Hitler’s Putsch: Birth Of The Nazi Party. (PGa, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

6am Mary Shelley.

(2017, PG) 8.10 Xanadu. (1980, PG) 10.05 The Eight Mountains. (2022, M) 12.45pm Goodbye Lenin! (2003, M, German) 3.00 Where The Wild Things Are. (2009, PG) 4.55 Callie & Son. (1981, PG) 7.30 Our Ties. (2022, M, French) 9.10 From All Sides. (2024, MA15+) 11.25 White Squall. (1996, M) 1.50am Transcendence. (2014, M) 3.55 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022)

TUESDAY, July 21

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.00 Poh’s Kitchen On The Road. (R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 8.50 Ice Age. 9.35 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.00 BattleBots. 10.45 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory. 11.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Portugal With Michael Portillo. (PGan, R)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks into ultra-processed foods.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 16.

2.20 Anne Boleyn. (Masv, R)

3.10 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (PG, R)

4.10 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Midnight While The Men Are Away. 1.05 Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am Callie & Son. (1981, PG) 8.30 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 10.20 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent. (2022) 12.20pm Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 2.00 Xanadu. (1980, PG) 3.50 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 5.40 The Comic. (1969, PG) 7.30 Godzilla Minus One. (2023, M, Japanese) 9.55 Bad Company. (1972, MA15+) 11.35 End Of Watch. (2012, MA15+) 1.35am Cold. (2023, MA15+, Icelandic) 3.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

8.40 The Rookie. (Mav) Harper and Chen go undercover in Baja.

9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.

10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGals) 12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News.

A Current Affair.

Travel Guides. (PG)

100% Footy. (Mal)

9News Late.

Outback Opal Hunters. (PGal)

Footy Classified. (Ml)

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

7.30 First Dates Australia. (Mas) A woman is set up with someone younger. 8.40 Doc. (Ma) A mysterious, fast-acting and deadly virus triggers an emergency lockdown on the sixth floor of Westside Hospital. 10.40 The Agenda Setters.

11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGal)

12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+av, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30

6.00

WEDNESDAY, July 22

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.05 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (R) 11.00 Search For The Last Great Tusker. (PG, R) 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 Insight. (R) 4.00 Going Places. (R) 4.30 The Cook Up. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml)

8.40 Concorde: Days That Shocked The World. (Ma)

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 17.

2.00 Anne Boleyn. (Mlsv, R)

2.55 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (R)

3.50 Ireland In Music: Caithnin. (R)

4.20 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. (R)

4.50 China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 9.10 Adventure Time. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.50 Late Programs.

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

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml)

9.30 Unfiltered. (PG)

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

11.00 The Fall And Rise Of Reggie Dinkins. (PGals)

11.30 Stumble. (PGalsv)

12.00 Everything I Know About Love. (MA15+l)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens. 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

6am Xanadu.

Continued. (1980, PG) 6.50 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 8.40 Marie’s Story. (2014, PG) 10.25 Our Ties. (2022, M, French) Noon White Squall. (1996, M) 2.20 Satellite Boy. (2012, PG) 4.00 Selkie. (2000, PG) 5.40 Men In War. (1957, PG) 7.40 After Hours. (1985, M) 9.30 The Big Lebowski. (1998, M) 11.40 Your Monster. (2024, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.

THURSDAY, July 23

6.00

4.00 Frankie Drake. (PG) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.40 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.05 Young Sheldon. 8.30 Young Sheldon. 8.50 Ultimate Vets. 9.10 Animal Park. 10.10 Secrets Of The Zoo. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (PG, R) 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (R) 5.00 Cycling.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Spain With Michael Portillo. (PG)

8.30 Eva Longoria: Searching For France. (PGaw) Eva Longoria explores Bordeaux’s world-famous vineyards, looking at wine production in Saint-Émilion.

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18.

2.00 Anne Boleyn. (Masv, R)

3.00 Michael Mosley Secrets Of The Superagers. (R)

3.55 Ireland In Music: Sclimpini. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

Morning Programs.

Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 17. Highlights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.35 France 24. 5.05 PBS News. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 9.20 The UnBelievable With Dan Aykroyd. 10.10 Alone Australia. 11.20 The Expanse. 1.10am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

(32)

6am Men In War. (1957, PG) 8.10 The Comic. (1969, PG) 10.00 Godzilla Minus One. (2023, M, Japanese) 12.25pm In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 2.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 4.00 Marie’s Story. (2014, PG) 5.45 The Ploughman’s Lunch. (1983, PG) 7.45 The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 9.30 Hell Or High Water. (2016, MA15+) 11.25 Only The Brave. (2017, M) 1.55am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGadv)

8.30 Air Crash Investigations: Monsoon Approach. (PGal) Looks at the crash of Air India Express Flight 1344. 9.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles: Gary Adams. (Mav, R)

10.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

11.30 Motorway Patrol. (PGl)

12.00 Brave New World. (MA15+asv)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 4.45 Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games: Opening Ceremony.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Tipping Point: Celebrity Families. (PG) 8.45 To Be Advised. 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 GolfBarons. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

Morning Programs. 3.30pm

4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Joker. (2019, MA15+) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight The 100. 12.50 Winter House. 1.40 Below Deck. 2.30 Jeopardy! UK. 3.30 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights. 4.00 Barbie: A Touch Of Magic. 4.30 Bubble’s

Whitty's warriors

q Nelson Bay’s talented under-12s representative netball team produced outstanding displays to finish runners up in Division Three at the recent State Junior Netball titles in Sydney. Pictured back, left to right:

Edwards, Emily Noble, Bella Edwards,

(manager),

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens netball is proven competitive and prosperous after three local associations covered themselves in glory at the recent Netball NSW HART State Junior Championships in Sydney.

In a huge boon for the region, the Nelson Bay under12s, Dungog under-12s and

state. Nelson Bay’s talented under-12s lineup exceeded all expectations to finish with

CONTINUED Page 17

LUNCH SPECIAL:

Tapas - Italian Style

Available Wednesday to Friday 3 for $33 pp

Choose any three house-made regional specialities from our Italian Favourites Menu and enjoy a delicious midday escape. Perfect for sharing, tasting, and discovering new favourites.

• All guests at the table must participate in this menu.

• A la carte menu also available.

Join

HOURS: Lunch Wednesday - Sunday 12pm - 2:30pm Dinner Wednesday -