Port Stephens News Of The Area 21 MAY 2026

By Nico LOMBARDO

many volunteers and the financial backing of Port Stephens Council.

After downloading the free Soundtrails app on their mobile device, users

By Nico LOMBARDO

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE

APPLICATIONS LODGED BETWEEN 03/05/2026 AND 10/05/2026

Information is correct at time of printing. For up-to-date information visit Council’s DA Tracker at datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au or contact us on 4988 0255.

ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL

BRANDY HILL

88 Brandy Hill Dr 16-2026-261-1 1 into 2 lot Torrens Title subdivision DUNS CREEK

1245 and 1245A Paterson Rd 16-2026-264-1 Alterations to dwelling FERN BAY

1126 Nelson Bay Rd 16-2026-248-1 Demolish outbuilding, erect men’s shed, existing facility alteration

18 Tuckeroo Ctc 16-2026-250-1 1 into 2 lot Strata subdivision HEATHERBRAE

1 Octagonal Dr 16-2026-254-1 Detached dual occupancy and 1 into 2 lot Strata subdivision MALLABULA

26 Strathmore Rd 16-2026-256-1 Detached shed, carport NELSON BAY

6 Pirralea Pde 16-2026-47-3

S4.55(1A) Modification to demolish single storey dwelling, install boundary retaining wall, remove 14 trees – amend Condition 5 for tree removal

61 Parkes St 16-2026-257-1 Demolish house and swimming pool

7 Moorooba Crst 16-2026-258-1 Detached shed, games room

ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL

RAYMOND TERRACE

36 Kuranga Ave 16-2026-270-1

Exempt (Private Certifier CDC 9-2026-26-1) 1 into 2 lot Torrens Title subdivision

SALAMANDER BAY

203 Soldiers Point Rd 16-2026-260-1 Deck extension

7 Kemp St 16-2026-268-1 Alterations to dwelling

70 Salamander Wy 16-2026-271-1 Alterations to dwelling

SALT ASH

25 Shady Ave 16-2026-262-1 Alterations to shed

SHOAL BAY

57 Tomaree Rd 16-2026-255-1 Change of use –convert outbuilding to secondary dwelling

TOMAGO

32 Enterprise Dr 16-2026-241-1

WILLIAMTOWN

6, 6A, 6B and 16 Cabbage Tree Rd 16-2026-253-1

WOODVILLE

Demolish one existing shed, construct 6 storage bins, a stockpile and detention basin

Flood mitigation works and development site for high technology industry, and 3 restaurants with a residual development site

7 Loch Goyle Dr 16-2026-267-1 Swimming pool

NOTICE OF NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL HAS RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS (DAS) FOR NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT:

DA NO: 16-2026-238-1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: Lot: A DP: 443737; Lot: 103 DP: 625839 74 Frederick Drive OYSTER COVE; 72 Frederick Drive OYSTER COVE

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Construction of a shared domestic jetty and boat ramp

APPLICANT: JOHN SULTANA

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Port Stephens Council

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL TYPE OF APPROVAL: APPROVAL AGENCY: Fisheries Management Act – Section 205 DPI Fisheries Water Management Act – Section 91 Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

ASSESSING OFFICER: Emily Allen: 4988 0126 or emily.allen@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (21 May 2026 to 18 June 2026)

SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 18 June 2026

DA NO: 16-2026-253 1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOT: 1 DP: 128062, LOT: 2 DP: 607447, LOT: 1 DP: 724833, LOT: 215 DP: 821659 6 Cabbage Tree Road WILLIAMTOWN, 16 Cabbage Tree Road WILLIAMTOWN, 6A Cabbage Tree Road WILLIAMTOWN, 6B Cabbage Tree Road WILLIAMTOWN

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Flood mitigation works and the development of the site for high technology industry and three restaurants with a residual development site

APPLICANT: STEVENS LAND PTY LTD

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Port Stephens Council

INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

APPROVAL TYPE OF APPROVAL: APPROVAL AGENCY: Water Management Act – Section 91 Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

ASSESSING OFFICER: Emily Allen: 4988 0126 or emily.allen@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (21 May 2026 to 18 June 2026)

SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 18 June 2026

Where

Online portstephens.nsw.gov.au or datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au Council’s Administration Building 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace (between 8:30am and 4:30pm weekdays)

to Council during the exhibition period. If the submission is an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be

Submissions can be made in any format (including video or audio), which can be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size. Mail PO BOX 42 Raymond Terrace NSW 2324 Email council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

Raymond

NOTIFICATION OF PUBLIC HEARING

PUBLIC LAND RECLASSIFICATION

– 8 COUNCIL SITES

A public hearing will be held for the proposed public land reclassification of 8 Council sites from community to operational land as defined under the Local Government Act 1993. The sites include:

27 Campbell Ave, Anna Bay

• 154 Rocky Point Road, Fingal Bay 101 Kindlebark Drive, Medowie

• 1B Jessica Close, Raymond Terrace

• 4 Payton Street, Raymond Terrace

20 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace

• 124 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace (southern portion)

• A-1 Mount Hall Road, Raymond Terrace. It is proposed to rezone 5 of the sites (1B Jessica Close, Raymond Terrace, 4 Payton Street, Raymond Terrace, 20 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace and 27 Campbell Avenue, Anna Bay) from RE1 Public Recreation to R2 Low Density Residential. The remaining sites will retain their existing zoning of R2 Low Density Residential under the Port Stephens Local Environmental Plan 2013.

This matter was placed on public exhibition from Monday 13 April 2026 to Thursday 11 May 2026.

This public hearing is open to the public and provides the community with a further opportunity to speak to the issues raised in submissions during the public exhibition period. It also allows the community to discuss issues with an independent person in a public forum.

When: 5:30 to 7:30pm on Monday 15 June 2026

Where: Port Stephens Council Chambers at 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace Online: Video conference also available

Public exhibition

To express your interest to speak at this public hearing, or to register to attend via video conference, please contact Sarah Connell prior to 5pm, Thursday 11 June.

Phone: 4988 0462

Email: Sarah.Connell@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

For any further questions regarding this matter please call the number listed above.

ROAD CLOSURES

SATURDAY 23 MAY 2026

The following roads will be closed to traffic, as part of the Triathlon Port Stephens event to be held between 7am and 1pm on Saturday 23 May 2026 in Anna Bay:

Gan Gan Road – from Blanch Street to Nelson Bay Road.

Frost Road, Reflections Drive, Echo Place, Eucalyptus Drive, Melaleuca Drive, Casuarina Close, Koala Close and Hannah Parade. Residents of the roads listed above will have limited access between races and under the direction of traffic controllers.

It is also advised that there will be a part-closure of One Mile Beach car park from 12pm Thursday 21 May to 4pm Saturday 23 May 2026. Further enquiries may be made by contacting the event organiser on 0401 299 816 or Council’s Events team on 4988 0255.

CLUBGRANTS

APPLICATIONS OPEN UNTIL SUNDAY 31 MAY 2026

ClubGRANTS is one of Australia’s largest grant programs, giving over $100 million annually to notfor-profit groups in NSW.

Charities, sporting organisations and not-for-profit community groups are among tens-of-thousands of worthy causes funded through the program each year. Apply now at clubgrants.com.au

Draft Anna Bay and Tilligerry

Creek Floodplain

View the draft Anna Bay and Tilligerry Creek Floodplain Risk Management Plan

The draft Anna Bay and Tilligerry Creek Floodplain Risk Management Plan is on exhibition until 5pm Monday 1 June 2026.

Drop-in session:

Thursday 21 May 2026, anytime between 4pm and 6pm Join us at a drop-in information session at Gateway Presbyterian Church, 43 Gan Gan Road, Anna Bay, to learn more and ask questions.

Connecting Community with

Saturday 23 May, 8:30am to 10:30am

Stop by and chat about what’s happening in your neighbourhood at our first Connecting with Community event of the year! This is a free, drop-in style session with no registrations required.

• Get updates on local roadworks and upgrades.

• Share feedback and ask questions.

• Enjoy a coffee on us! We’re handing out local coffee vouchers for constructive community suggestions and comments. Learn more at pscouncil.info/ connecting-with-community

Henry F. Halloran Soundtrail takes visitors through Tanilba Bay’s history

FROM Page 1

starting from the 1920s including how Henry F. Halloran, the visionary property developer, shaped Tanilba Bay and Port Stephens into what they are today.

“Our first plan was to simply tell you who these streets are named after, but then it grew out of control,” said Robyn Cragg, President of the Port Stephens Family History Society.

The Soundtrail is GPS activated and once downloaded can be enjoyed without an internet or mobile connection.

Plaques and QR codes have also been placed in key locations to encourage visitors to learn more.

The project was launched on Saturday 16 May, with a walk in the foggy morning rewarded with newfound knowledge and a sausage sizzle.

“The beauty of this Soundtrail is that it will be with us forever,” said Councillor Jason Wells.

“People can walk it whenever they like, those QR codes will be there for a very long time, and everyone can access this history.”

MP Kate Washington, who was a guest alongside MP Meryl Swanson, said that the trail will bring more people to the area and give a boost to the local economy.

Nelson Bay locals protest against planned pathway between Halifax

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by Transport for NSW’s Get NSW Active 2025–26 program, with the stated objective of safely connecting the region’s most popular locations and creating active and inclusive communities.

A sizable crowd of people turned up at a community engagement meeting on Tuesday 12 May to voice their opposition to the paving of

and Harwood Avenue

what was previously a natural track.

Until now, the path has been fully maintained by the community, and locals have expressed their disappointment at the imminent loss of a green, quiet area.

Many questioned the need for a paved path, claiming that the majority of residents, even those with mobility issues, are able to easily

access the current track.

Another cause for concern is the risk that the new pathway will significantly endanger pedestrians by further encouraging e-bike and e-scooter riders to cut through the area at high speeds.

In response, a Port Stephens Council spokesperson said, “The community told us through the 2024 Liveability Survey

and Shoal Bay Place Plan engagement, that safe, shared paths that connect homes and amenities are important to them.

“Wide pathways in open areas with good sight distance are the preferred option to cater for all community needs.”

Regarding the e-bike concerns, councillors

endorsed a Notice of Motion on the topic at their March meeting, with the objective of improving road safety outcomes.

Alternative routes were also considered, but Council is confident that

the current iteration of the plan is ideal, and will allow for the creation of a safe, car-free environment, while respecting the vegetation in the area.

Construction of the Halifax to Harwood shared pathway will start in September 2026 and is expected to take three months.

The detailed construction plans are available to view online on Port Stephens Council’s Projects and Works page.

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

Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au

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

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

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Budget brawl escalates over rival tax cut proposals

By Zac DE SILVA, AAP

A ROW has broken out over the cost of cutting taxes for millions of Australians as Labor and the opposition try to sell rival economic plans to voters.

After a week dominated by the state of the nation's finances, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused the opposition of failing to properly price its plan to bake in tax cuts to every federal budget.

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor wants to index tax brackets in line with inflation, effectively giving most Australians a tax cut each year from 2028/29, while Labor has announced a $250 rebate each year for all working Australians.

But Mr Albanese said the hit to the budget would be bigger than the opposition predicted.

"They came out with a costing of $22 billion... we know it's at least $35 billion," he told reporters in Hobart.

"There were no facts there at all."

Mr Taylor said he stood by the fouryear costing, which would be offset by cuts to government programs, including funds for social and affordable housing that the coalition believes are wasteful.

The opposition leader argued leaving current settings in place would amount to a tax hike due to bracket creep as people were pushed into higher tiers through wage inflation.

"This betrays the fact that the government plans to raise income tax rates to the tune of $35 billion... the faster inflation goes up, the more they hike them," he told Sky News.

An opinion poll published on Sunday suggested the government's plan to wind

back negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount had been poorly received and was widely regarded among voters as a broken election promise.

According to Freshwater research published by News Corp, 44 percent of voters think the budget will leave their household worse off while 13 percent think it will improve their circumstances.

More than 80 percent of those surveyed thought Labor had broken its promise to leave property tax concessions unchanged.

Asked whether he was disappointed by the survey results, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said he wasn't expecting support for the government to increase due to its budget reforms.

"I'd be more surprised if there was a bounce," he said, pointing to the oil crisis and a "predictable scare campaign" as factors driving down support for the government.

"We're not doing this to help our primary vote, we're doing this to help more people into

housing."

Startups could still be carved out from changes to capital gains tax due to fears the new inflation-linked method of calculating the charge could drive investment away from upand-coming businesses.

"There are particular issues when it comes to the cost-based calculation in startups, particularly in tech and when it comes to (venture capital)," Dr Chalmers said.

"We recognise that there are specific issues here and so it's not unusual for there to be consultation on implementation after a big policy change is announced."

But shadow treasurer Tim Wilson said the policy change would "kneecap" startups and make Australia less productive.

"The government is now coming along and saying that they want to take a 47 per cent stake in these small businesses," he said.

"The prime minister is like that person in a group assignment that never seems to do anything but at the end of the day wants to take the same grade when they haven't done half the work."

Second forum on Salamander Bay plans

FOLLOWING an initial public forum in March, the Mambo Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group (MWWCG) will hold a second community event on Saturday 30 May, focusing on Port Stephens Council development plans they fear will impact the wetlands.

Held at the Tomaree Library from 2pm, event speakers include Greens MP Sue Higginson, wetland management specialist Dr Tom Headley, and architect and planning expert Murray Wood.

MWWCG secretary Kathy Brown encouraged all community members interested in the preservation of the wetlands to attend.

“Mayor Leah Anderson says we need more

housing,” she said.

“No one would disagree with this.

“But should the wetlands and the health of our coastal environment be sacrificed to achieve it?”

The development proposals concerning the local conservation group are discussed in the Salamander Bay Town Centre Place Plan released by Council last year.

Ms Brown said local residents are “astounded” when they hear of development plans for the Salamander Bay locale.

“How can the Council that supported a buyback of Mambo land almost 10 years ago, now propose developments with even greater impact than that proposed in 2016?

“The forum will explore the environmental impacts, look at alternate housing possibilities and then the big picture concerns of state planning laws.

“Speakers at the forum include Dr Tom Headley, a leading wetland scientist who will explore the environmental value of wetlands and why we need to protect them.

“We will also look at Council’s development proposals in detail and alternate housing strategies presented by local architect Murray Wood, and finally a statewide perspective from Sue Higginson, a Member of the Legislative Council and Greens spokesperson on environment and planning.”

Admission is free but registration is

recommended through Humanitix.

The Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group was formed in 2017 when a DA was lodged to build on a 5.6 hectare section of Mambo Wetlands in Salamander Bay that had been sold to a developer in 2016 by the NSW Education Department.

The site contained rare flora and fauna species including the koala.

“Through our advocacy to have this land returned to public ownership, we have realised just how fragile our local environment is and we are determined to support the protection and maintenance of habitat in Port Stephens,” Kathy said.

Medowie’s street libraries building connections

By Ruby van de WIJGAART

STREET libraries across Medowie are helping build community connections while encouraging locals of all ages to read.

Tea Tree Drive is a particular hot-spot, with three reading pockets along the road being popular stops for students from Wirreanda Public School.

“It’s good to see the kids interested,” said the owner of one library.

“It’s something I've always wanted to have.”

The organisation behind street libraries turns 10 this year.

It encourages people of all ages to read by providing better access to reading materials.

There are more than 6,000 libraries set up across Australia, with at least eight in Medowie and support for more.

The Tea Tree Drive owner said the reaction and contribution has been “only positive”.

Street libraries operate on the principle of “Take one, leave one”.

Many have become colourful features of the suburb and are decorated with hand-painted designs and creative touches reflecting the personalities of the

people who built them.

However, there are understandable concerns of destruction, mishandling and misuse.

The community is encouraged to look out for the libraries and even begin their own.

With the cost of living, these houses of stories help parents swap books regularly and contribute to their children's reading habits.

Highest April water usage in 20 years

HUNTER Water is urging customers to make smart water choices as the Lower Hunter records its highest April water usage in 20 years, alongside declining dam levels and ongoing dry conditions.

Residential water use topped 3.7 billion litres in the month, equating to 189 litres per person per day, driven by warmer and drier weather.

Typically, in April, the

region’s average per person water usage each day would be about 163 litres, totalling 3.2 billion litres.

The lack of rain in April, traditionally a month when the region receives replenishing rain, together with above average temperatures has contributed to the highest April water demand since 2006.

As a result of these

conditions and the associated increase in demand, the region’s drinking water storages have fallen to around 62 percent, their lowest level in more than five years.

Hunter Water Executive Manager Strategy and Engagement, Emma Berry, said April’s high water usage highlights the need for early action.

“We can’t control the weather, but we can control how much water we use.

"Every day is a good day to save water, and right now it’s

more important than ever,” Ms Berry said.

The Bureau of Meteorology long-range forecasts indicate continued warmer and drier conditions, increasing the likelihood of further pressure on water storages in coming months.

“While any rainfall is welcome, recent falls have been isolated and mainly along the coastal fringe, which hasn’t had a significant or lasting impact on our dam levels.

“Our catchments remain

very dry, which means not all rainfall turns into runoff that refills our storages,” Ms Berry said.

Hunter Water’s dams can drop quickly during extended dry periods, particularly when evaporation rates are high.

With the region potentially heading toward drought conditions and water restrictions in winter, Hunter Water is asking households and businesses to start saving water now.

Simple, everyday actions can make a meaningful

difference, including:

• Shorter showers - a two-minute reduction in shower time can save around 20 litres of water.

• Only watering gardens before 10am or after 4pm

• Using a bucket instead of a hose to wash cars

• Running washing machines and dishwashers only when full

• Fixing leaks promptly

• Installing water-efficient appliances and fittings.

$5m boost for safer places of worship

By Jacie WHITFIELD

FAITH communities in Port Stephens and across NSW will benefit from a $5 million investment to enhance safety and security at places of worship, the state government has announced.

The funding, part of the latest round of the Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants, will support three local organisations in the Port Stephens electorate: Our Lady Help Of Christians in Mallabula, St John’s

Anglican Church in Raymond Terrace, and St Stephen’s in Tea Gardens.

The grants aim to provide practical upgrades and support to help religious groups feel secure in their places of worship.

This latest injection honours the Minns Labor Government’s $15 million commitment over four years to bolster safety at places of worship and other regular gathering spots for religious communities.

Since the program’s

inception in 2023, a total of 355 organisations statewide have received support.

The grants adopt a resilience-based approach, equipping organisations to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from potential incidents.

Eligible initiatives include upgrades to security systems and infrastructure, improved incident management planning, firstaid training, and broader safety and wellbeing services for communities.

NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper emphasised the importance of the program.

“All faith communities in NSW have the right to gather and practise their religion in safety and without fear,” he said.

“This funding will help grant recipients deliver practical upgrades that make their communities safer and more secure.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington welcomed the support for

her electorate’s faith groups.

“Port Stephens is home to many faith communities, so I’m pleased to see local churches strengthening their security systems and providing comfort to parishioners,” she said.

“I’m delighted that Our Lady Help Of Christians in Mallabula, St John’s in Raymond Terrace and St Stephen’s in Tea Gardens, will benefit from this support to keep their special places of worship safe and secure into the future.”

The program is administered by Multicultural NSW. The announcement comes amid ongoing community concerns about safety at religious sites, with the grants providing tangible resources to address those challenges.

More information on eligibility and previous rounds is available on the Safe Places for Faith Communities Program website.

Farmers urged to act early on feral pig control

WITH dry seasonal conditions being experienced in many parts of the region, Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) is urging producers to act early on feral pig control.

As feed and water become limited, feral pigs are concentrating around remaining resources, increasing the risk of damage to crops, pastures and infrastructure, and putting additional pressure on livestock production systems.

Hunter LLS biosecurity staff say these seasonal conditions create a critical window for control programs, where wellplanned action can deliver stronger results.

Luke Booth, Team Leader for Invasive Pests for Hunter LLS said, “We are working with landholders to deliver large-scale control across priority areas.

“This includes the distribution of free grain to support baiting and trapping programs, supply of traps, the deployment of dedicated feral pig control contractors, coordinated ground baiting programs and targeted aerial shooting operations.”

To stay ahead of population growth, landholders are encouraged

to take a strategic approach that combines multiple control methods and aligns with seasonal conditions and farm operations.

Effective programs typically include:

• using free feeding to establish consistent feeding patterns prior to control activities

• selecting appropriate trap types and locations based on feral pig behaviour and movement

• combining control

methods such as trapping, baiting and shooting to increase effectiveness

• following up initial control within three months to maintain pressure on populations

• coordinating control programs with neighbours to maximise impact across the landscape.

Feral pigs are highly adaptable and reproduce rapidly, making ongoing

control essential.

A single sow can produce up to two litters per year, with as many as 10–12 piglets per litter, allowing populations to recover quickly if control efforts are not sustained.

Sows can breed as early as six months in favourable conditions.

“Continued control is critical to further suppress populations, particularly as pigs become more exposed and vulnerable due to reduced food availability

and limited ground cover,” Luke said.

Conducting control programs ahead of key production periods, such as crop establishment, can help reduce production losses and protect valuable inputs.

Feral pig control also helps protect biodiversity and reduce biosecurity risks, with feral pigs capable of damaging native habitats and spreading weeds, parasites and diseases.

Local Land Services is supporting landholders

through the NSW Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program 2025–26, which provides access to practical tools and resources to improve control outcomes.

Landholders are encouraged to seek advice to ensure control programs are well planned and compliant with requirements.

For more information or tailored advice, contact your local biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299 or visit the Local Land Services website.

You risk more than your own safety going a few K’s over.

No matter how quiet it is, or how many times you’ve driven the road, every kilometre over the speed limit increases the risk of a serious crash.

Isn’t it time we got serious about casual speeding?

Robot demonstration for Hunter students

By Nico LOMBARDO

STUDENTS at Hunter River High School in Heatherbrae had the unique opportunity to experience a live demonstration of emerging technologies in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics as part of a Careers Week 2026 learning program.

Neuranext founder Adrian Tyson visited the school on Thursday 14 May to teach kids what AI is, what it isn’t, and how it’s going to change the job market (and the world).

He even brought a few robots with him.

“It’s important for students to see cutting edge technologies because it encourages them to get involved,” Mr Tyson said Students could interact with technological wonders such as autonomous drones, self-driving toy cars and robot dogs.

The highlight was the showcase of some of the most sophisticated models of humanoid automatons, which have the capability to perform complex actions, such as playing soccer,

dancing, and doing martial arts.

While students were captivated by the impressive displays, Mr Tyson explained the practical applications of these technologies, and the ways in which they’re being rolled out across the country.

“AI isn’t only relevant for tech and science jobs, but affects jobs from every industry, like agriculture or banking,” he explained.

“Nothing has changed the market this much since the invention of electricity.”

In the coming years,

PBL winners announced

THE Term 2 Week 4 winners of Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) awards have been revealed.

Week 4 winners:

Irrawang Public School: Congratulations to Kalyn on receiving a Community PBL award in recognition of his outstanding respect demonstrated at the ANZAC Day march and representing Irrawang Public School with pride.

Raymond Terrace Public School: Elliot is nominated for the respect he shows to all. While Elliot shines in all group activities assisting everyone to experience success, it is in social situations where his leadership qualities stand out. While in the playground he is inclusive to all around him. He has been noticed by many people going out of his way to include all students in his and his friends' games and encouraging his friends to do the same.

Grahamstown Public School: Lindee is a wonderful role model to her peers and consistently demonstrates a helpful and responsible attitude. As a proud Library Monitor, she assists students in finding books and games during break times and supports teachers in the library. Lindee also assists Mrs Bartush in the canteen with various tasks and

helps students during lunch service. She consistently demonstrates PBL values through her kindness, initiative and willingness to help others.

Irrawang High School: Congratulations to School Captain and Co–Drum Corps Captain Liam on his PBL Award nomination. Liam represented his school with pride, integrity and professionalism, leading

the Drum Corps at both the Medowie and Raymond Terrace ANZAC Day services. Liam is a fantastic role model, consistently demonstrating PBL values of respect, responsibility and personal best.

Hunter River High School: Maddison is nominated for her outstanding commitment to helping keep students safe at school. She consistently demonstrates responsibility,

many of the showcased tools (including the humanoid robots) will not only become assistants to humans, but will play a part in filling positions that are experiencing labour shortages, or that are too dangerous or complex for humans to perform.

The most important advice for students was that everyone, regardless of their

Medowie Public School:

awareness, and care for her peers, contributing to a positive and secure learning environment.

Salt Ash Public School: Tyrone has been nominated for demonstrating impressive personal growth and persistence during the swimming carnival. He gave it his best effort, never gave up and showed great resilience throughout. By representing his team with determination and a positive attitude he truly embodied the PBL value of being a positive learner.

Tom is a responsible student. He stayed and looked after a lost three-year-old girl, waiting until help arrived. What a wonderful citizen Tom is.

Seaham Public School: Hugo received a Community PBL award in term four, 2025. He continues to be a caring and compassionate student who goes above and beyond in supporting others. Recently a Seaham Public School staff member tripped in the playground resulting in pain

desired career path, should learn basic AI skills to give themselves an advantage in the job market.

Student Mitchell Plumridge said the robotics demonstration “felt like something that’s from beyond our time”.

“Robotics isn’t really my thing, but I will probably still learn those AI skills so I can use them if I need to.”

and injury. Hugo rushed to the scene to provide assistance. Hugo helped and supported the staff member which really helped the situation.

Karuah Public School: Rihanna is nominated for showing care for others and making sure everyone feels included. Her commitment to doing what is right and her willingness to speak up for herself and her peers make her a great role model. Rihanna will often volunteer to take on extra responsibilities to help staff and peers.

Feedback sought on fish stocking plan

RECREATIONAL fishers are invited to have their say on which NSW dams and impoundments they would like to see stocked with their favourite freshwater fish species, as the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) develops its stocking program for the year ahead.

DPIRD Aquaculture Director Ian Lyall said NSW is home to numerous impoundments and reservoirs well suited to freshwater fish stocking, helping create and maintain some of the state’s most popular recreational fisheries.

“Each year, DPIRD partners with recreational fishers and local communities to release key sportfishing species, including Murray Cod, Australian Bass, Golden Perch, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout into public impoundments across NSW,” Mr Lyall said.

“DPIRD has now drafted a new recreational stocking plan for the 2026–2027 season and is seeking feedback on the proposed sites and species.

“This is a great chance

for recreational fishers to directly influence where stocking occurs in future seasons.

“They can even put forward new dams for consideration, provided there is practical public access and fishing is allowed.”

Mr Lyall said all fish stocking activities in NSW are managed sustainably under a Fisheries Management Strategy (FMS) and supported by an Environmental Impact Statement, with all proposals assessed to ensure they align with the FMS.

“Last season, more than 5.2 million fish were stocked into NSW waterways, and more than 3.7 million have already stocked across regional NSW for the 202526 season,” Mr Lyall said.

“Recreational fishing in NSW is a significant contributor to the NSW economy, and stocking plans play an essential role in building healthy inland fisheries, delivering fantastic fishing opportunities and supporting regional communities.

“DPIRD operates a network of fish hatcheries across NSW that produce

q Stocking locations across the Hunter and Mid North Coast. Photo: DPI.

the freshwater species used in our stocking programs, including the Narrandera Fisheries Centre, Port Stephens Fisheries Institute, Grafton Aquaculture Centre, and the Dutton and Gaden

Trout Hatcheries.

“These annual stockings are a clear example of recreational fishing licence fees being reinvested to improve fishing opportunities right across the state.”

Recreational fishers are encouraged to email their feedback on the draft plan to fish.stocking@dpird.nsw.gov. au by 22 May 2026. To view the NSW

Freshwater Fish Stocking Plan and for more information, visit: https:// www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ fishing/recreational/ resources/stocking/ enhanced-fish-production

700-plus drivers caught during traffic operation

MORE than 708 drivers have been detected allegedly driving with drugs in their systems during a statewide police traffic operation.

Operation RAID (Remove All Impaired Drivers), which ran from Thursday 7 to Sunday 10 May, focused on roadside testing to identify people who may be driving while affected by alcohol and drugs.

During the operation, police conducted 8,460

drug tests with 708 people returning positive samples and conducted more than 161,397 breath tests with 211 drink driving offences detected.

While the operation

focused on detecting drivers operating a vehicle impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue, the high-visibility operation saw police across the state issue more than 5,213 other traffic infringement notices, including 1,904 for speedrelated offences, 363 for mobile phone use, and 109 restraint-related offences.

During the operation, an incident unfolded locally at Nerong.

About 8.55am on Friday 8 May, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District responded to reports of a crash.

Upon arrival, police located a vehicle that had crashed into bushland off the Pacific Highway. No injuries were reported.

Following inquiries, the driver - a 25-year-old man from Sydney - was found to be an alleged disqualified driver with two outstanding warrants for alleged break and enter offences.

The man underwent mandatory testing, which allegedly returned a positive result for methamphetamine.

He was arrested and taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with “break and enter dwelling-house etc with intent (steal)”, “drive motor vehicle during disqualification period”, “driver or rider state false name or home address”, and “negligent driving (no death or grievous bodily harm)”.

In a separate incident,

one person lost their life in Cabramatta.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said driving impaired was selfish, reckless and deadly.

“Driving impaired with drugs or alcohol in your system is a dangerous choice that can kill someone,” Minister Catley said.

“Police cannot sit in the driver’s seat with you.

“Every driver has a responsibility to make sure they are fit to get behind the wheel.

“Operation RAID may have concluded, but enforcement does not stop.

“If you are putting lives at risk on NSW roads, police will get you.”

Tax, migration and NDIS in coalition's economic sights

By Zac DE SILVA and Tess IKONOMOU, AAP

AUSTRALIA'S tax system would be overhauled, welfare restricted to citizens and immigration slashed under a future coalition government.

In his first budget reply speech, Angus Taylor has conceded the Liberals and Nationals still have a long road to win back the confidence of voters, but asked Australians to "begin to believe again".

The opposition leader outlined a plan to index tax brackets in line with inflation, returning hundreds of dollars to workers that would've otherwise gone to the government as tax.

The two lowest brackets - covering people earning between $18,201 and $135,000 - would be indexed from 2028-29, Mr Taylor said.

This would deliver tax relief of about $250 in the first year and more than $1000 in the the fourth, the coalition forecasts.

The top two tax brackets would also be indexed from the 2031/32 financial year.

"This is generational tax reform. It's fair, simple, and

honest. It will back Australians to work hard, take risks, and invest in their future. It will force government to respect your money," Mr Taylor told parliament on Thursday night.

Raising tax brackets in line with inflation each year would cost the budget billions of dollars.

But it would also end bracket creep, where pay rises push workers into higher tax brackets, even though inflation means they may not be any wealthier.

Successive governments have chosen not to index brackets, instead announcing a tax cut every few years.

During periods when the mining sector raked in windfall profits, the coalition would bank 80 cents in every dollar of resource revenue into a "future generations fund" for nation-building infrastructure.

The opposition leader also promised to cut Australia's migrant intake.

While Mr Taylor argued it would be rash to provide an exact immigration target two years away from the next election, he said the

coalition's cut would be sizeable.

"The coalition will deliver one of the biggest cuts to immigration in Australian history," he said.

Under his plan, a limit would be placed on net overseas migration, equivalent to the number of homes built in the previous year.

Net overseas migration is the difference between the number of people arriving in Australia and the number of departures, and also includes temporary migrants like foreign students.

Tuesday's budget forecast the figure at 295,000 for the current financial year, dropping to 225,000 in 2027/28.

That's well below the post-pandemic high of more than 550,000, when a flood of migrants re-entered the country as borders reopened, but still higher than preCOVID levels.

In the 2024/25 financial year, about 175,000 new homes were built.

Mr Taylor said the coalition would claw back billions of dollars in savings

Speaking of success

By Thomas O’KEEFE

LOCAL youth Deena Clemson has been winning hearts

and minds through the perennially critical medium of public speaking, going all the way to the national

capital in the Lions Youth of the Year competition.

Deena’s journey started with winning the overall

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, Jobseeker, Youth Allowance and the Family Tax Benefit would be for Australian citizens only.

The policy platform is, in part, designed to take on Pauline Hanson's One Nation, which has been surging in the polls and last week demolished the Liberal vote to win the Farrer by-election in southern NSW.

"There's much work the coalition must do to win your confidence. But with

Medowie Lions Youth of the Year on Sunday 23 November, 2025, which led to the 201N3 District Youth of the Year Finals at Wangi District Workers Club on Saturday 11 April.

There, Deena won the overall district and public speaking components of the competition, moving on to the Lions state finals in Canberra on Saturday 2 May.

As the representative for District 201N3, Deena was one of five state finalists vying for the opportunity to represent NSW at the national finals in Adelaide.

Proud dad Mark Clemson told News Of The Area, “It was a long day. Deena interviewed at 9:45am before participating in a

the policies I've announced tonight, and the vision I've outlined, I hope you can begin to believe again," Mr Taylor said.

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson said the by-election result led the coalition "to finally see the light" and copy her party's policies.

"While they've been telling everyone that One Nation has no policies, they've been reading them very carefully because they're desperate for some good ideas," she said.

"The cosy two-party

luncheon and then returning in the evening for a dinner where each participant responded to two twominute impromptu speeches and delivered a five minute prepared speech.”

Deena’s address was “Nine Boundaries, One Future”, an unflinching deconstruction of just how close humanity is to losing its uniquely liveable planet to pollution and inaction, among other modern concerns.

Deena’s journey in the competition finished on the weekend with Ryan from The Henry Lawson High School progressing through to the national finals.

"Lions Youth of Year has been an amazing experience,”

system protecting two tired, clueless and unpopular major parties is on borrowed time no matter how much they wish it was otherwise."

Greens deputy leader Mehreen Faruqi slammed the coalition, accusing them of pandering to One Nation's politics.

"It is pathetic that the Liberals are willing to sink so low trying to out-racist One Nation," she said.

"Newsflash for Angus Taylor, migrants are entitled to the same safety net as everyone else."

Deena told NOTA. “Not only was I challenging my interview and public speaking skills, but I got to meet incredible young people from across the state and gained an incredible support network.

"Travelling to Canberra for state finals was definitely a highlight - not only participating in the competition but being able to explore the local area and Australian National University (ANU) where I am looking at possibly going to uni.

“Being one of the top five in the state really pushed me to stay committed, and be the best person I could be in every stage of the process.”

Members of the Tea Gardens Lions Club invited Deena to tell them all about that journey, as well as another the Tea Gardens branch of the international club helped to make happen – her involvement in the United Nations Young Diplomats Tour of Europe over December 2025 and January 2026.

A whirlwind trek beginning in the ancient city of Istanbul, then crossing through close to a dozen European countries, including Germany, France, the UK and Ireland, gave Deena a remarkable and unparalleled educational experience, which only fed more into her desire to pursue an international relations future.

Exposed to asbestos or silica dust?

FOR many in our community, hard work in industries like timber, farming, power generation, construction and mining has been a way of life.

But for some, that work has come at a hidden cost.

Diseases caused by asbestos and silica dust often take decades to appear.

By the time symptoms develop, the connection to past employment may not be immediately obvious.

Yet under New South Wales law, people diagnosed with dust diseases may be entitled to significant compensation - even if exposure occurred many years ago.

Carter Hawkins Lawyers is a specialist firm dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by dust disease.

With a strong focus on client care, the firm assists with claims through the Dust Diseases Tribunal and the Dust Board (iCare), guiding clients through what can often be a complex and emotional process.

Importantly, exposure is not limited to a single workplace.

Many cases arise from years spent working across local power stations, coal mines, construction sites and industrial employers throughout regional New South Wales.

Even brief or secondary exposure can be enough to cause serious illness.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a dust-related condition, it is worth seeking advice. Early guidance can make a meaningful difference - not just financially, but in securing support and peace of mind for the future.

Carter Hawkins offers a free in-home consultation to discuss your entitlements.

You can then decide whether to proceed with a claim from there.

THE BACKPACK VENTURE

On a mission to support students

THE Backpack Venture is a charity started and operated from Port Stephens.

The mission of the charity is to help students and families experiencing financial hardship by providing them with backpacks and the essential school supplies.

This can only be achieved thanks to the generosity and support of communities, businesses such as Officeworks, other charities such as Good360, as well as service clubs across Australia.

The gift of a backpack - which is complete with lunch box, drink bottle and essential stationery items

- not only ensures students start the school year feeling empowered, confident and ready to learn, it also helps and encourages students to attend school, as well as

letting students and families know that people care.

Since The Backpack Venture was established in 2021 there has been an increase in demand for assistance.

It was this demand that was the catalyst for registering as a charity and obtaining DGR status in 2023.

To date, The Backpack Venture has supplied more than 3,500 children with essential school supplies, this included assisting those families impacted by the floods in the Lismore area in 2022.

Backpacks have been delivered from Newcastle to Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens to the North Coast, North Coast to the Gold Coast, and the Hunter Valley to Central West NSW.

The first community to put up their hand to help was

our own.

When the call went out for donations and collection points there was immediate contact from several local

organisations and individuals. The Backpack Venture Charity collects donations all year round, but relies on two major Back To School Drives

in January and June to help as many children as they can in rural and remote areas and those in need. Contact The Backpack

Grant program to support Land Councils to care for landholdings

THE New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has partnered with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to offer funding to Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) from across the state.

The newly offered Together on Country grants are being co-delivered by NSWALC and the EPA and are aimed at supporting LALCs across NSW in managing

their landholdings.

NSWALC Chairperson Dr Raymond Kelly said the Together on Country grant program will help Aboriginal communities safely dispose of waste, care for Country and support Aboriginal participation in the circular economy.

“Together on Country is about empowering our communities to care for their land and Country in ways that

are sustainable and culturally meaningful,” said Chair Kelly.

“This program will address a number of waste issues across the state, including illegal dumping, which remains a significant issue impacting land managed by our LALCs and surrounding communities.

“By empowering LALCs to manage waste, Together on Country will embed traditional ecological

knowledge of land – focused on sustainability, reuse, and regeneration – into modern waste practices.”

Through this new program, LALCs are encouraged to apply for up to $150,000 per project to improve waste management and sustainable practices within their communities.

EPA Executive Director of Engagement, Digital and Innovation, Alexandra Geddes, said the EPA was proud to work together with NSWALC to deliver this funding.

“The Together on Country grants are based on collaboration, respect and an acknowledgement that Aboriginal people have deep knowledge about how to care for Country,” Ms Geddes said.

“This funding will help Local Aboriginal Land Councils address local waste management issues on their land holdings and find sustainable, long-term solutions that work for the environment and their community.”

Applications are assessed on a rolling basis.

NSWALC encourages LALCs to consult with their communities before submitting an application, to ensure there is support for the proposed projects.

The grant funding is available to all LALCs; however, successful projects should address a specific waste issue and provide sustainable, long-term solutions.

Details of the Together on Country grant program are available at https://alc.org. au/t-o-c-grant/.

Farmer confidence ‘plummets’ amid cost crisis

NSW FARMERS is warning state and federal governments must urgently respond to an acute cost-ofproduction shock with new data showing spikes in fuel and fertiliser prices caused by global shortages have slashed confidence.

The survey also showed confidence about the year ahead had collapsed, with 80 percent of farmers expecting business conditions to worsen over the next 12 months.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said farmers were already changing decisions that underpinned the production of food and fibre.

“We were expecting a drop

The latest NSW Farmers Farm Business Sentiment Survey suggests 80 percent price increases for fuel and fertiliser have flowed through to freight (up 60 percent), farm chemicals (up 40 percent) and labour (up 25 percent).

in conditions and confidence, but this is a stark warning to governments that food security, and the economic value of farm production, is taking an absolute beating,”

Mr Martin said.

“This data confirms the multitude of anecdotal reports that things are tough for farm businesses, and that should be a wake-up call for the nation.”

Survey respondents reported they were scaling back or decreasing the intensity of production by 22 percent, while 36 percent were changing cropping and stocking plans.

Mr Martin said governments must act quickly with practical, targeted measures that reduced the extraordinary costs faced by farming businesses to avoid even worse planting and stocking decisions over coming months.

“To stabilise production and protect regional jobs, we need immediate relief that lowers on-farm and supplychain costs, and finance settings that help farm businesses maintain liquidity and keep operating through this period of uncertainty,” he said.

NSW Farmers proposed

time-limited tax relief to directly reduce extraordinary cost pressures and support investment in on-farm storage and efficiency, including relief from payroll tax, insurance-related taxes and council rate increases where feasible, as well as waiving tolls and heavy vehicle charges and registration fees to ease freight costs.

NSW Farmers also urged the Commonwealth to increase and expand the instant asset write-off settings beyond June 2026 to support storage investment and adoption of fuel and fertiliser efficiency technology.

Over the medium term,

NSW Farmers called for expanded access to low or zero-interest finance and underwriting settings so farmers could refinance, maintain working capital, and proceed with cropping and stocking plans. This included new Rural Assistance Authority loan products to support efficiency and storage technology, faster access to relevant RIC loan products, and underwriting of existing farm insurance with exploration of underwriting options for new products, including crop, stock and weather cover.

THE BACKPACK VENTURE

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The open-plan design faces north, allowing the living areas to be bathed in natural light while offering picturesque views of the water.

In addition to its prime location, the resort adjoins various recreational facilities, including a bowling club, golf club, and tennis courts.

The rear of the property backs onto serene natural bushland, providing a tranquil setting.

With a short stroll, you can reach the town centre, where charming coffee shops and the vibrant Nelson Bay Marina await.

This central location allows for easy access to all Nelson Bay has to offer, with a quick drive leading you to nearby shopping centres, Shoal Bay, and Fingal Bay

It features a spacious deck, perfect for enjoying your afternoon drinks or hosting intimate gatherings with friends and family.

to explore Port Stephens' stunning landscapes.

For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, surfing beaches abound in the area, offering excellent conditions for surfers of all levels.

The neighbouring Nelson Bay Golf Course is highly rated by locals and visitors alike. Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise with world-record catches frequently made out of Port Stephens waters.

Whether you're looking for an investment opportunity or a personal holiday retreat to unwind and enjoy

Dorin's Drawings

OPINION & LETTERS

On the Couch

By Paul DORIN

Verse of the week

By Lynne MILES

By JASMINDA

MY friend is a good listener, but sometimes I forget my train of thought and ask her what I was talking about and she never knows. Does this seem odd?

Delia H.

Dear Delia,

There is a very big difference between pretending to listen and using actively listening skills.

Many people become adept at the former and give a damn fine impression of the latter, when in reality they only hear the occasional word.

It is a skill, and sometimes a survival mechanism, when you

have friends or family members that frequently unload for hours at a time.

A conversation is a two-way contract, so if you think your friend is a good listener, consider if you are also a good listener, or if you are simply getting things off your chest that may be of no consequence.

There is nothing wrong with working through issues, but if your friend is merely a sounding board, it may be becoming exhausting for them to be constantly listening (or pretending to listen) to the (no doubt riveting, but possibly not) details of your life.

The clear cue that your friend is not listening is that she can never recall what you are talking about. Perhaps she is perimenopausal and can't remember anything.

Or perhaps, while you are unloading about your kids, or your husband, or your dog, she is a million miles away, possibly imagining she is skiing in the swiss alps, or immersed (up to the neck) in a hot tub (a glass of pinot gris in her hand) or maybe she is imagining that she is frolicking in the ocean

Steps taken to address fuel security

THE NSW Government’s Investment Delivery Authority (IDA) will run a targeted Expression of Interest (EOI) round calling for major projects that safeguard the state against future global fuel supply shocks.

The EOI will focus on commercial-scale projects valued at $100 million or more that would directly improve fuel security, including:

• fuel storage and distribution infrastructure

• domestic, import-independent liquid fuel production, focused on renewable fuels and their

feedstocks such as sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, biodiesel, biomethane and green ammonia

• heavy electric vehicle charging hubs and fleets, to reduce reliance on diesel over time.

According to a NSW Government statement, the IDA will use its existing operating model to help remove delivery barriers, coordinate engagement across government and support endorsed projects to progress more quickly.

Alongside the EOI round,

the NSW Government will run a market sounding process to help understand what’s needed to unlock future investment related to fuel security.

This will provide an option for proponents whose projects do not yet meet IDA EOI criteria, such as those at an earlier stage of development, to still put forward information about potential projects as part of the fuel security round.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “This is about making sure NSW is better prepared, better protected and better positioned to deal with

global shocks, while keeping our economy and essential services moving.

“We also recognise that not every good idea is ready to go on day one, which is why we’re running a market sounding process alongside the EOI round.”

In a further attempt to improve fuel security, the NSW Government will also expand the Renewable Fuel Scheme to include low-carbon and renewable liquid fuels.

The Scheme currently provides financial incentives for green hydrogen and will shortly be

with Jason Momoa and/or a seal.

Then, in the midst of these diversions, you interject with 'now I've forgotten my train of thought, what was I talking about?' and her imaginative escape is shattered.

Then she has to take a stab in the dark as to whether you were talking about your son's recent tooth extraction, or your husband's propensity to cut his toenails on the mohair rug, or your desire to paint your walls Hog Bristle because you're sick of Lexicon White.

A friendship is a give-and-take arrangement.

I'd suggest next time you catch up, you ask her what she has been up to.

And then you listen. Really listen. And ask questions to show you're listening.

Unless, of course, she starts talking about home renovations, in which case you have permission to adopt any of the above imaginative escapes or come up with your own.

expanded to include biomethane.

The government will now add renewable liquid fuels such as sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and biodiesel, pending consultation with industry.

The fuel security round of the IDA and the market sounding process will open on 1 June, 2026. Proponents will have three weeks to submit their projects. For more information on the IDA visit www.nsw.gov.au/departmentsand-agencies/investment-nsw/ investment-delivery-authority.

Fuel transparency differing between regions

THE NSW Government’s ongoing FuelCheck inspection program has revealed which regions across the state have the best and worst compliance rates for price transparency.

While approximately half of all inspections have taken place outside of Sydney, around 70 percent of all fines have been issued in regional NSW.

The Central Coast comes out on top for fuel transparency, with only one fine issued for price mismatching through the Bowser Buster campaign.

The Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions came in a close second, recording only three fines since March.

Three regions have demonstrated the worst compliance rates, with multiple fines issued to fuel retailers in the area.

The Southern Tablelands and South Coast has recorded the highest number of fines in the state, with 33 penalties issued, predominantly for mismatches between the price at the pump and the price on FuelCheck.

Service stations in the Riverina and Central West are also amongst those logging the highest number of price mismatches, each with 30 and

21 penalties.

Service stations that display ‘red flag’ behaviours, such as receiving fines or multiple consumer complaints, will continue to be the target of NSW Fair Trading’s reinspections.

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said, “Our inspectors have been working around the clock and in every corner of the state checking for compliance in petrol stations to stamp out price mismatches.

“FuelCheck is a crucial tool that puts power back in the hands of motorists.

“When families pull up for fuel, they deserve clear and accurate information.

“This is about strengthening fuel price transparency and ensuring FuelCheck works for everyone.”

Single service stations in Cooma, Lismore, Kelso, Newcastle, Goulburn and Port Kembla have all been issued multiple fines in an inspection, while a fuel retailer in the Murray region was dealt with a penalty for a 24 percent price mismatch for diesel.

NSW Fair Trading has now conducted over 4,600 field inspections and re-inspections.

Inspectors have also issued

more than 270 fines, with around 80 percent of these penalties being for price mismatches.

Legislation that passed the Legislative Assembly last week will also make it illegal for service stations to fail to notify FuelCheck of a standard price of fuel or fuel unavailability at the bowser.

The proposed legislation

will also increase the fines for individuals from $22,000 to $55,000.

On-the-spot fines for service stations will be tripled to $3,300 for the first offence and $11,000 for the second offence within 12 months.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Our proposed

laws, coupled with our inspection program, are all about deterring service stations from taking motorists for a ride.

“As we close in on the final retailers in the most remote regions, we want motorists to be alert to price mismatching at their local servo and report their concerns directly to FuelCheck.”

Stinker’s History: The need for lime

Stinker's Stories

By John 'Stinker' CLARKE

CONTINUED expansion of the Australian colonies placed increased pressure on the building industry, which relied heavily on lime for mortar for stone buildings.

It was well known that oyster shells could be burned to produce the lime - cheap and in ample supply.

At first only the empty shells of eaten oysters were used but as the demand for lime grew, to keep pace with the colonists’ building program, large numbers of live oysters were burned as fast as they could be chipped off the rocks. Oyster beds were discovered at depths of up to 25 feet on mud bottoms in Botany Bay and Port Jackson and were dredged up for around 100 years and burned for lime.

At one stage the dredging activity reached depths of over 50 feet.

Carrington Church is but one early building that relied on the lime from oyster shells.

This is evident on close inspection of the mortar where shell fragments can be clearly seen.

1886 legislation prevented the burning of live oysters in the shell.

Massive oyster populations were exploited in many of the NSW estuaries between the 1850s and 70s, resulting in drastic declines

in oyster populations in a practice referred to as “skinning”.

Schooners supplying lime kilns in Newcastle and Sydney simply berthed on mudflats at low tide, raked together the live oysters and completed loading the vessel.

Numerous smaller boats operated within estuaries targeting sub-tidal dredge oysters.

In shallow water, less than six feet, the shell beds underlying the live oyster reefs were even excavated for lime production.

Whole rivers were “leased” by individuals, often Sydney merchants, who contracted labour to undertake the harvest. Oysters were usually shipped live in sacks on the decks of steamboats plying Australian coastal waters.

Any man who could guarantee a regular supply to the lime kilns was well paid regardless of how or where the shell was obtained.

With a total disrespect for Aboriginal culture, oyster shells from ancient middens were burned and crushed in the mad rush for lime.

The burning and crushing works were usually located on the bank of a creek and today there are still dozens of Limeburners Creeks on the map of NSW.

As early as 1810 lime burning kilns were erected near Fullerton Cove and Limeburners Bay.

Later in 1816 other kilns were established at Carrington and Fame Cove.

A boat regularly sailed from Port Stephens loaded with oysters to be burnt for lime at kilns then situated in Stockton.

Not surprisingly the wild oyster resource dwindled significantly resulting in the introduction in 1868 of legislation prohibiting the

burning of live oysters for lime.

This legislation eventually led to the development of farming practices by oystermen who began to set out sticks, stones and shells to grow oysters in the inter-tidal zone.

Systematic oyster cultivation first began in New South Wales in 1872 on the banks of the Georges River where Thomas Holt attempted to copy a method that he had observed on a previous visit to France where the oyster and mussel industries were well advanced.

Holt’s plan was to grow oysters in manmade canals (claires), artificial channels with floodgates, so that the water levels could be controlled.

The project was eventually abandoned due to high mortalities caused by the searing Australian sun and the build up of silt on the oysters.

In 1874 Alfred Emerson bought the right to harvest oysters in Botany Bay and Georges River for £131.

By 1876 he employed 30 men to collect oysters from the rocks and dredge them up from the mud banks.

He even used South Sea Islanders to dive for them in depths up to 15 feet where submerged rocks prevented dredging. So efficient was Alfred Emerson and others that by the early 1880s the rocks and mud beds of Botany Bay and the Georges River were almost scraped clean.

Concerns raised about the sustainability of these fishing practices and the great depletion by dredging in eastern Australia resulted in the establishment of a Royal Commission by the Governor of the Colony of NSW (Oyster Culture Commission, 1877).

q Up until the mid-1980s oysters were grown right throughout the Port.

Its purpose was to inquire into the best mode of cultivating the oyster and of improving and maintaining the natural oyster beds of the colony.

Many recommendations were made and restrictions imposed.

Among the outcomes were that oyster leases were introduced at £1 per year per 100 yards and to control plundering it was forbidden to gather oysters between sundown and dawn.

In 1876 the lessee of Port Stephens first registered oyster lease was Peter James, who paid £150 a year.

During this early period, the means usually employed to gather oysters were by dredging the bottom of water courses, divers working the bottom, picking up with tongs and chipping off rocks.

Stinker’s Fishin’: The mullet run has started

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

NOW is the time to witness one of the most amazing displays of nature that continues annually along all beaches from the NSW South Coast into Southeast Queensland - the “mullet run”.

Millions of mullet, in prime condition, have spent around three years maturing and fattening in estuary systems including Sydney Harbour, Lake Macquarie, the Hunter River and Port Stephens.

It is out of these systems that mullet pour into the open ocean

where they swim northward as part of their annual spawning run.

It is in the open sea that they become most vulnerable to predators including sharks and commercial fishermen. Hugging the coastline in huge schools the fish are followed by packs of sharks - Grey Nurse, Bull Sharks, Bronze Whalers and Great Whites.

This is not the time of year to swim anywhere near a school of mullet.

On a couple of occasions, on Broughton Island and Boat Harbour, I have witnessed Great Whites

launch themselves totally out of the water as they attack the mullet.

Amazing scenes as Grey Nurse and Bronzies are prepared to swim in water, less than knee deep, in their attempt to feast on mullet.

Interestingly not all the mullet are sent to market, many are set aside by local commercial fishermen to be salted and sun dried to be used as lobster bait in the coming season.

Take the opportunity to visit Stockton, Boat Harbour, One Mile or Fingal Beaches and watch the commercial fishermen in action.

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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)

Nelson Bay Croquet Club

By David WILSON

THE Manly Seabreeze Golf Croquet Tournament was played Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th May 2026. 28 players entered the singles which were played in 4 blocks of 7 players from 7th to 9th May. 34 players entered the doubles which were played in 2 blocks of 6 pairs and 1 of 5 pairs on 9th and 10th May. All games were handicap play, 13-point with a time limit of 50 minutes.

Faby Batho and Liz Friend from Nelson Bay Croquet Club travelled to Manly and played in both the singles and doubles. In the singles, Liz Friend won Block A, the top block with the lowest handicap players, winning 5 of 6 games to finish well ahead of 4 players with 3 wins. Faby Batho finished in the middle of Block B with 3 wins from 6 games. In the doubles, both Liz, playing with Lance Howes (Marrickville), and Faby, playing with Peter Kadar (Hunters Hill) played in Block A – Liz and Lance were undefeated to win the block with 5 wins, while Faby and Peter finished with 3 wins, taking runner-up on hoop difference.

Winter Doubles

The intraclub Golf Croquet Winter Doubles competition was played on Monday 11th May 2026. All games were handicap play, 13-point with a time limit of 50 minutes.

Traditionally, handicap play has been based on the player/pair with the higher handicap receiving extra turns, with the number of extra turns determined by the difference in handicap. Over the last 2 years,

the World Croquet Federation has been trialling and adjusting an alternative approach, which is now ready for implementation as the advantage target system. Based on their different handicaps, a “target score” is determined for each player/pair – the target may be higher (lower handicap) or lower (higher handicap) than the normal 7 hoops required to win a 13-point game. In time limited games, the percentage of the target score achieved determines the winner. The Club played the Winter Doubles as their first trial of using the advantage target system. 24 members entered the competition and were randomly drawn into pairs before being seeded into 3 blocks of 4 pairs. The 3-game round-robin block play was followed by semifinals and a final. In Block A, Greg Long and

Bryce Patterson and Iris Maartensz and Geoff Yonge finished with 2 wins each, with Greg and Bryce declared winners on hoop difference.

In Block B, Kath Orton and Barry Elliott and Faby Batho and Jan Puckeridge finished with 2 wins each, with Kath and Barry declared winners on hoop difference.

In Block C, Gail Brabant and Rosemary Taylor finished on top unbeaten with 3 wins.

The semi-finals featured the 3 block winners plus the best runner-up, Iris Maartensz and Geoff Yonge.

Iris and Geoff beat Gail Brabant and Rosemary Taylor while Greg Long and Bryce Patterson beat Kath Orton and Barry Elliott in the semi-finals.

In the final, Greg Long and Bryce Patterson ran out winners of the Winter Doubles.

All the players and Club Captain, Trevor Black, thought that the advantage target system worked very well.

AFL rep honours for Marlins trio

By Chris KARAS

NELSON Bay Marlins AFL superboot Billy Barton has demonstrated his scoring prowess in the representative arena.

Barton kicked a goal for the combined AFL Hunter-Central Coast senior men's team that toppled AFL South Coast 11.9 (75) to 9.10 (64) in the annual representative challenge fixture last weekend at Manuka Oval in Canberra.

The prolific-scoring forward turned in a strong performance on ground as the Hunter Central Coast side recovered from a 19-14 first quarter deficit to power their way to a deserved victory.

Barton proved a handful for the South Coast defenders as Hunter Central Coast gained a 35-27 advantage at the half time break and a 52-43 lead at the end of the third term.

He was one of three Nelson Bay players to gain selection in the 2026 Hunter-Central Coast representative squads, with the other two being Annalise Norton and Charlotte Connick, who were named in the senior women's squad.

Two other Marlins mainstays, Zane Grant and Scarlett Lack, were chosen as emergency shadow reserves.

Norton and Connick starred in the Hunter-Central Coast women’s resounding 11.6 (72) to 1.4 (10) victory in the later fixture, with Cardiff’s Savannah Newton awarded the Nadene McBride Medal for best

on ground.

Barton has proved a key player for the Marlins in this year’s Black Diamond Senior Men's Cup series with strong performances in Nelson Bay’s recent wins over the Wyong-Lakes Magpies and The Entrance-Bateau Bay.

The star forward booted six goals in a 22.16 (148) to 5.7 (37) thumping of the Magpies at Dick Burwell Oval and another two goals in the Marlins’ 85-60 triumph over The Entrance-

Bateau Bay to keep the Port Stephens club in the top four after three matches.

Other Nelson Bay players to showcase their wares include skipper Louis Dews, who kicked four goals against the Magpies; Mitchell Hall (five goals against The Entrance-Bateau Bay); and Hudson Roche, Tom Warren, Lachlan Blyth, Joel Schneeberger, Tim Anderson, Zane Grant, Jason Carey and Sam Norton. In the Black Diamond Senior

Women’s Cup, a determined Sophie Elliott booted three goals and Tori Borg a double, as Nelson Bay registered a gritty 58-50 win over The Entrance-Bateau Bay.

The Marlins were best served by rep stars Norton and Connick, Milla Gainsford, Jazlyn Stevens, Cameron Moncrieff and Ella Toscano in a spirited performance that elevated the team into fifth spot.

Nelson Bay senior men face a tough assignment this Saturday when they host the third ranked Terrigal Avoca Panthers at Dick Burwell Oval from 2pm after the senior women's fixture at noon.

Tilligerry Social Golf Club

Money hole. A. Matt Baldwin. B. Lucky number. 33. Bryan Porter There were 9 starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game 22/5/26 4th round of the Club Championships.

Keeper Kyle helps U14s win Roy Miller Cup

By Chris KARAS

RAYMOND Terrace soccer

prodigy Kyle Blackie has achieved success in the green and gold.

The talented Hunter River High School student was a member of the Australian Under 14yrs Boys Futsal team that stood tall during a recent three week sojourn to the United Kingdom.

Kyle, a promising goalkeeper, helped Australia bring home the Roy Miller Cup championship trophyconceding only one goal for the entire tournament.

It was an incredible feat

by the young Aussies who recorded six victories and two draws across eight matches.

For goal stopper Blackie it was a first overseas trip to remember. He proudly donned

the Australian jumper on European soil and left his mark in the official FIFArecognised, five-a-side version of soccer.

Kyle’s journey began in Scotland at the prestigious

Scossie Cup, where the young Aussies fought hard to finish second overall.

The streak continued in Wales where the team dominated at the Roy Miller Cup tournament with Kyle the

Higgins chases Origin clean sweep

By Chris KARAS

RAYMOND Terrace rugby

league icon Olivia Higgins is eyeing off a rare Women's Origin clean sweep with the triumphant NSW Sky Blues team.

The international hooker forward played another prominent role in the Sky Blues’ thrilling 14-10 victory over Queensland last week as they retained the Origin Shield by clinching the series at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.

Higgins showed her guile

around the rucks as NSW gained a distinct advantage with their passing game and resilient defence, in an entertaining start to the NRL Magic Round.

John Strange’s Sky Blues can claim a unique clean sweep with another victory in the third women's Origin clash next Thursday 28 May, at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.

The crafty Higgins provided slick service to skilful NSW halves Jesse Southwell and Jocelyn Kelleher and shared the

hooking duties with Keeley Nizza, who started the match on the bench.

Nizza made an immediate impact when she entered the contest before the breakdarting over for a crucial try to give the Sky Blues a vital 8-0 lead.

Southwell, 21, a Kotara Bears junior product, turned in a Player of the Match performance in the number seven jumper to enhance her reputation as one of the game’s leading playmakers.

After missing the Blues’ Origin-winning campaign

Gropers shape as title contenders

By Chris KARAS

NELSON Bay first grade men's rugby squad are tracking well in this year’s Hunter Suburban Presidents

Cup A Grade competition. Four rounds into their 2026 campaign, the revamped Gropers are entrenched in second spot with two wins and two losses

under their belts.

They are growing in stature under the mentorship of new coach Michael Squires.

Heading into last

last season, the capable Higgins has proved an asset on her return - shifting the momentum in both matches with her powerful surges from dummy half and tightening up the middle with her no-nonsense defence.

It has been a series to savour for the Newcastle Knights number nine, who revealed she was “stoked to be in the 17” and would do whatever the team needed to play her part in achieving Origin success.

weekend’s NSW Country Rugby Championships at Scully Park in Tamworth, the Nelson Bay warriors were recovering from a heartbreaking 17-14 loss to title favourites and undefeated Cup leaders Singleton Red Bulls.

The Gropers only other defeat was against reigning premiers Scone Brumbies on 18 April.

Singleton led the competition on 19 pointseight clear of Nelson Bay and Cooks Hill Brown Snakes (11 points), the Brumbies (10 points) and Muswellbrook Heelers (1 point).

Coach Squires has the ingredients for a competitive top grade unit that can give this year’s premiership one almighty shake.

With inspirational forwards and co-captains Jake Affleck and Sam Rocher leading the way up front and classy fly half Will Clark and 18-year-old rookie backs

standout in defence.

An elated Blackie told News Of The Area that he was “excited” to represent Australia on his first overseas venture.

“We played matches in Scotland and Wales and visited London, where I saw Big Ben,” he said.

“My highlights of the trip

were watching Aston Villa play in the England Premier League in Birmingham and returning home as Aussie champions.”

Kyle’s soccer endeavours have proved an inspiration to his Hunter River High School colleagues and the Port Stephens sporting community.

Liam Pietrasek and Harry Anderson making an impact out wide, the Gropers are shaping as genuine trophy contenders.

This Saturday the club will host its annual Old Boys Day against the Heelers at Bill Strong Oval, with kick off at 3pm.

To mark the occasion, the Nelson Bay players will don a retro strip to commemorate their inaugural jersey and logo.

Nelson Bay Juniors will join the senior team at the Groperdome to stage their annual Club Day, with Under 11s, Under 16s and Under 18s featuring in curtainraisers before the main game.

The Gropers showed their premiership credentials in the gripping loss to Singleton and still managed to earn a bonus point with a stouthearted performance on home turf.

Nelson Bay led 14-5 before the Bulls stormed home to claim a morale boost and early season bragging rights.

Squires has assembled a competitive squad in 2026 with forwards Affleck, Rocher, props Nathan McLeay, Shane Jarvis, Riley Byfield, Luke Sweeney, and Zion Takarua; lineout flyers Taraq Hall and Mitch Workman; locks Ronan O’Connell and John Lundie; flankers Ryan Marshall, Hayden Wilson and Keanu Often, and hookers Ollie Edwards, Liam Keating and Ross Buchan, forming a nononsense “engine room”. The Gropers’ backline stocks have demonstrated their pace and class with halves Clark and Kade Redmond and Jake Langsford, Brayden McMaster, Will McLean, Zac Summerfield, Taj Turner, Scott Tristen, Josh Sollitt, Tom Akbal and tough tackling Danny Arnfield providing plenty of strike power out wide.

Basketball boom in Port Stephens

By Chris KARAS

BASKETBALL runs through the veins of tireless volunteer and highly respected sports administrator Janice Hilton.

With more than five decades of experience as a player, coach and official, the determined stalwart is on a mission to revitalise the sport in the Port Stephens region.

As founder of the fledgling Port Stephens Basketball Association (PSBA), Janice and a growing crew of volunteers are toiling hard behind the scenes to provide a platform for local aspiring hoopers.

Formed in 2025, the Association has introduced a domestic Friday night twilight competition at the Tomaree High School courts

for budding basketballers in the Under 12s to Under 18 age groups.

A driving force for her organisation, Janice has also paved the way for the association to field Port Stephens Stingrays representative tour teams.

These will include promising junior players in the Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 age divisions lining up against other associations in carnival challenge matches across the state.

The experienced coach coordinator is keen to build pathways and opportunities for local hoopers.

“With Maitland and Newcastle associations brimming with huge numbers, our association can cater for locals and other juniors from the Hunter

seeking a game,” Janice told News Of The Area.

Last Friday, the PSBA showcased the region through sports tourism with seven juniors attending a stingrays feeding session at the Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters centre at Anna Bay.

Talented prospects Dustyn Anderson, 14; Philip Kipfer, 16; Kye Boughton, 16; Deegan McNaughton, 16; Cameron Andrews, 17; Daniel Muldoon, 14 and Sean Ratchatapipat, 14, were given an educational talk on stingray conservation by Managing Director Ryan Pereira.

The Port Stephens Stingrays tour teams were formed last year with the Under 18 Boys representing the region with distinction

q Port Stephens Stingrays basketball reps learnt about stingray conservation at the

and

at the Coffs Harbour Classic Carnival in February.

“The teams comprise players from Nelson Bay, Kurri Kurri and Singleton with our Under 14s, 16s and

18s invited to play carnival matches against Taree in coming weeks in Kempsey,” said Janice.

Port Stephens Basketball boasts an experienced

Bright start for Port Stephens Power AFL women

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens Power senior women's AFL team have opened their 2026

Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Plate campaign in style.

With three victories from their opening four matches,

Tim Drough’s talented combination has captured the imagination of the local sporting public with their skill and commitment.

Emphatic victories over Muswellbrook Cats (1310 and 86-2) and a thrilling 15-13 win over University of Newcastle Seahorses has zoomed the team into third spot on 12 points and on track for yet another finals appearance.

Lake Macquarie Dockers inflicted the Power’s only defeat this season with a 5425 triumph at Ferodale Oval in Medowie last month.

Head coach Drough was delighted with the comprehensive win over Muswellbrook, which featured standout performances from Stephanie O’Neill, Nicole Honeysett, Jemma Astley, Molly Goudie, Jenny Rojas, Renee Selby, Alysha Fewster,

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

By Gary WATT

RESULTS from a Stroke competition and 3rd Round of Club Championships played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 11th May 2026 with 42 players.

Nett Winner : John Howlett, 68nett.

Nett Runner Up : Bryan Porter, 69nett.

Bonus Point Winner : Brian Neale, 68nett.

Bonus Point Runner Up : Ralph Brown, 69nett on countback.

Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole Division 1 : Michael Sternback, (v) Division 2 : Jim Gill.

Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole : Division 1 : John Clayton. Division 2 : Ian Dean.

Drive & Chip, 7th Hole :

Division 1 : Ralph Brown.

Division 2 : Bryan Porter.

Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, :

Division 1 : Barry Leo.

Division 2 : Jenny Hale.

Ball Winners : Frank Vandruten 69 nett, Bob McKeand 70nett, Lester Lake 70nett, Bob Sellick 71nett, Bruce Brideoake 72nett,

Sue Gill 72nett, David Hurley 73nett, Kel Dorney 73nett, Greg Sessions 74nett, Gary Watt 74nett, Shayne Mullarvey 74nett, Jenny Hale 74nett, and Peter Wild 74nett.

Lucky Draw Prize Winner : Barry Leo.

Success for Medowie 7yo in state mountain bike series

He delivered an outstanding effort across both disciplines, securing third place in the Funduro downhill event after racing across four different tracks.

He also narrowly missed the podium in the cross country race, finishing fourth after completing two laps of the course in a time of 31 minutes and 27 seconds.

The young rider said the event was about more than just results.

“I also made a great new friend from other schools who we can ride with all season,” he said.

The Kalateenee MTB Trails offered a mix of flowing single track, technical features and challenging terrain, with courses adjusted to suit each age group and skill level.

Leo’s strong performance has put him among the promising young riders to watch as the NSW School Mountain Bike Series continues.

Mel McCartney, Shakira Jobson and NSW Masters defender Josie Johnson.

Outstanding forward Honeysett bagged six and four goal hauls against the Cats with the experienced Johnson booting four goals in a masterclass opening round display.

In a superb team effort, the Power victories also featured goal doubles from Goudie, Rojas, O’Neill, Jayde Everill and Grace Astley and single goals by Selby, Chantal Giepmans and Jemma Astley.

Emma Chester produced a top performance in the 29-point loss to the Dockers with wholehearted support from O’Neill, Goudie, Jobson, Fewster and Rojas.

By Lee RANKIN

SATURDAY 9th May. Stableford.

The Power showed plenty of spirit to edge out the Seahorses at Connolly Park with Honeysett and Goudie nabbing crucial goals in a low scoring tussle.

Inspirational leader Johnson, a Port Stephens AFL stalwart, told News Of The Area that this year’s squad was “reaping the benefits” of a tough preseason training and skills regime under coach Drough.

“Our preparation for this campaign is spot on and we have assembled a talented group of women that will do the club proud.”

The Port Stephens senior women resume their Black Diamond Plate campaign this Saturday when they clash with seventh placed Killarney Vale Bombers at Adelaide Street Oval from 9am.

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BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

SHETLAND

ABC TV, 8.30pm

It’s freezing cold, claustrophobically small and the whole place knows your business, but even reluctant returnee Ruth Calder (Ashley Jensen, pictured) can’t deny that Shetland is home. Officially a resident of the Scottish isles when this ninth season begins, Calder is thrown into an uncomfortable situation by a double missing person’s case that blurs the line between private and professional lives. Annie (Sarah MacGillivray), the woman who has vanished with her young son, is a friend of Tosh (Alison O’Donnell), and had arranged to speak to her about something important the night before she disappeared.

FRIDAY, May 22

(2)

WEDNESDAY

GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

Living in the advent of autocorrect and AI, you might wonder who spell these days. Comedians, that’s who. Logie Award-winning host Guy Montgomery won’t let the written word go quietly, enlisting a roster of famous stand-ups, rising stars and bewildered actors to spell homophones, esoteric scientific terms and names of audience members alike. Brimming with zany set-ups and lightningfast improv, it’s one of the truest joys on Australian TV. In Wednesday’s episode, Montgomery and his sidekick Sam Campbell (near left, with Montgomery) find out if Rose Matafeo, David O’Doherty or Tim McDonald can topple the carryover champ.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 1.45 Bad Company. (PGn, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson meets a horticulturalist.

8.30 Shetland. (Return, Mlv) Calder and Tosh investigate when a woman goes missing with her nine-year-old son.

9.30 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R)

10.30 ABC Late News.

10.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)

11.35 Love Me. (Mdl, R)

1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (Premiere)

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. (Premiere)

9.50 Rock Legends. (PGa)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (Mas)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

THURSDAY RICK STEIN’S AUSTRALIA

Whether he’s at home in Cornwall or soaking up

residence, chef Rick Stein (pictured) rarely strays far from the ocean. And with a gift for preparing seafood with such fresh, natural flavour, who could blame him? However, for this tasty travelogue, the Englishman is leaving the coast behind and taking in Australian landscapes further inland. After venturing into the Outback last week, Stein heads to New South Wales’ Riverina region. He’s keen to see how the area’s floodplains have become a food bowl for the entire nation, stopping by an emu farm, the De Bortoli winery and a “perfect” Italian bakery.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.00 MOVIE: Ladies In Black. (2018, PGl, R) A young woman learns about life and love while working at a department store in ’50s Sydney. Angourie Rice, Julia Ormond.

10.15 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown.

12.00 Quacks. (MA15+d)

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

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Canterbury Bulldogs v Melbourne Storm.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran rescues POWs. Sylvester Stallone.

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)

FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched.

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter. 8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.

SATURDAY, May 23

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky.

9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) 1.30 Shetland. (Mlv, R) 2.30 Mozart’s Sister. 4.15 Shaun Micallef’s Going For Broke. (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim goes into labour.

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG)

A distillery owner is poisoned.

8.30 Silent Witness. (M) When a mysterious contagion spreads on a flight, Dr Nikki Alexander must contain a deadly illness.

10.15 Bergerac. (Mal, R) Bergerac’s pursuit of Monica has severe consequences.

11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGaw)

8.20 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)

9.20 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)

SUNDAY,

May 24

10.15 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGav, R) 11.15 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

1.55 Matched. (PG, R)

2.45 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R)

3.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 The Assembly. (PGa, R) 3.15 Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure. (PG, R) 4.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 5.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 11.00 Hot Roads: World’s

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Jessica Mauboy. Autistic students interview Jessica Mauboy.

8.15 Bad Company. (M) Staff are trapped when new smart locks malfunction.

8.45 Bergerac. (Mlv) Bergerac’s career is on the line as the case gets personal.

9.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

A distillery owner is poisoned.

10.30 Silent Witness. (M, R)

12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Mr. Holmes.

Continued. (2015, PG) 7.10 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 9.00 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 11.00 Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 12.40pm The First Day Of My Life. (2023, M, Italian) 2.55 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 4.55 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 6.55 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 8.30 No Country For Old Men. (2007, MA15+) 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.00 Ooops! I Bought A Pub. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: Armageddon. (1998, Mv, R) A veteran oil driller and his team must save humanity after an asteroid is discovered on a collision course with Earth. Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler. 11.35 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Madlv, R)

12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 1. Highlights. 1.35 Devils. (MA15+av)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return Of The Jedi. (1983, PGv, R) Mark Hamill.

10.10 MOVIE: Stargate. (1994, PGv, R) Kurt Russell.

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

1.10 Tasman Trails. (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)

9.00 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving, as they deal with a diabetic coma, a rescue from a burning car, a child in anaphylaxis and an explosion in Chinatown.

11.00 Elsbeth. (PGv, R) Elsbeth

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Shut Your Big Fat Mouth John Safran! (Ma) 8.45 Cannes Uncut. (Maln, R) 10.15 Osher Günsberg: A World Of Pain. (Mads, R) 11.25 The Rise And Fall Of Boris Becker. (Mals, R)

1.15 Matched. (PG, R)

3.00 The Sculpture. (PGav, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.00 The Real Adolescence: Our Killer Kids. (MA15+av)

10.30 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Mad, R)

11.40 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)

12.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Tasmania Super 440. Day 2. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 8.00 The Michael Jackson Story: Fame. (Premiere, Mas) Follows Michael Jackson’s rise to fame. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 The First 48. (Mav, R) 11.25 American Ripper: Black Heart, White City. (Mav) 12.15 Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R) 1.05 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

The Garden Gurus. (R)

Today Early News.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Ideal Palace. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 7.20 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 8.55 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 10.50 Up In The Air. (2009, M) 12.50pm Harold And Maude. (1971, M) 2.30 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 4.20 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 6.20 The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. (1952, PG) 8.30 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 10.55 Late Programs.

MONDAY, May 25

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.40pm Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Chopped Junior. 10.15 Kids Baking Championship. 11.00 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 26 6.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

SBS World News.

Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG) 8.40 Ancient Greece By Train. (R) 9.35 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Sambre: Anatomy Of A Crime. (Mav) 12.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R) 3.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 My Unique B&B. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

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

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

8.40 9-1-1. (M) Buck is faced with his past. 9.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 Happy’s Place. (PGal) 12.10 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.10 The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

A Current Affair.

The Michael Jackson Story. (Final, Mas)

100% Footy. (Mal)

9News Late.

Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl)

Footy Classified. (Ml)

Hello SA. (PG)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

(32)

6am The Snows

6am Morning Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.40 MOVIE: Under Siege 2. (1995, MA15+) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.55 The 100. 12.45am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.45 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 3.00 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Savage Builds. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.05 The Negotiator. (Ma)

12.00 World On Fire. (Malv, R)

3.15 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R)

4.15 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.50 Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

3.05

Belichick: The Verdict. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.35 France 24. 5.05 PBS News. 6.05 The Curse Of Oak Island. 6.55 Jeopardy! 7.50 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.45 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 9.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 16. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today.

(32)

Of Kilimanjaro. Continued. (1952, PG) 7.55 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 10.00 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 12.20pm The Fence. (2022, M) 2.00 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 4.00 The Shooting. (1966, PG) 5.35 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 7.35 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 9.15 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.05 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 8.50 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 10.25 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 12.30pm Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Snows Of Kilimanjaro. (1952, PG) 5.40 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 7.30 The New Boy. (2023, M) 9.40 Samson And Delilah. (2009, M) 11.35 Late Programs.

2.35

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Reno Rules. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 9.15 Doc. (Ma) While navigating the fallout from Katie’s secret, Amy treats a critically-ill patient with a dark one of her own. 10.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well.

The Agenda Setters.

12.15 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

WEDNESDAY, May 27

2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights.

Trial Of Michael Jackson. (M)

9.25 The Audacity. (MA15+l)

10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Rise Of The Raven. (Mv) 11.55 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R)

1.40 Classified. (MA15+v, R)

3.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 4.20 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 4.05pm Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 11.00 Late Programs.

(31)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Master

Cheng: A Spice For Life. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.20 Alick & Albert. (2021, PG) 10.10 We Don’t Need A Map. (2017, M) 11.50

The New Boy. (2023, M) 2pm Madison. (2020, PG, German) 3.35 Discovering Film. 4.25 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 6.10 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.35 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.10 Spear. (2015, M) 10.40 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, May 28

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.00 Legacy List. (PGa, R) 11.15 Making It. (PG, R)

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

7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Malv) Recruits tackle an extraction task.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by  Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters.

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

12.00 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)

1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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 My Reno Rules. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country.

7MATE (64)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL State of Origin. Game 1. New South Wales v Queensland.

10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 1. 11.00 NRL Origin Stories. (PGl, R) Looks at the history of the NRL Origin series.

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Explore TV Viking. (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) 4.30 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6am Morning Programs.

3.30pm Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Sully. (2016, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The 100. 12.20am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.20 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.30 Surfing Australia. 3.00 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.40 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (PG)

8.40 Titanic: Our Secret History. (PGa, R)

9.35 A Gentleman In Moscow. (Ma)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Under The Bridge. (MA15+l)

11.55 De Gaulle. (Ma, R)

2.50 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)

3.50 My Unique B&B. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31)

Alone. 3.00 BBC News At Ten. 3.30 France 24. 4.00 PBS News. 5.00 The Lebanese Burger Mafia. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 Travel Man. 9.05 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 8.15

Another Country. (2015, PG) 9.40 Discovering Film. 10.30 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 12.05pm Samson And Delilah. (2009, M) 2.00 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 4.00 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 5.40 Kindred. 7.30 The Thicket. (2024, M) 9.30 The Sweeney. (2012, MA15+) 11.35 Late Programs.

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

7.30 Highway Patrol Special. (PGl, R) Takes a look at some blatant busts.

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

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

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.30 Brave New World. (Premiere, MA15+asv)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s State Of Origin. Queensland v New South Wales. Game 3. 9.35

7MATE (64)

6am

Thursday, 21 May 2026

By Jacie WHITFIELD

YOUNG Medowie rider Leo S. is proving age is no barrier when it comes to mountain biking success, after an impressive performance at one of the state’s biggest school competitions.

Earlier this term, students from Medowie Christian School travelled to Kempsey to compete in Round 1 of the 2026 NSW School Mountain Bike Series, hosted by the Macleay Valley Mountain Bike Riders at the Kalateenee Trails.

The event attracted competitors from more than 40 schools across NSW, with riders competing in divisions from Under 7s through to Under 19. The series combined Olympic-style cross country (XCO) racing with Funduro, a beginner-friendly gravity enduro event designed to encourage participation while still testing riders’ skills and confidence on the trails. Leo was among the standout performers in the highly competitive Under 7 boys division, which featured riders from more than seven schools.

CONTINUED Page 21

Where every moment is filled with exquisite flavors and unforgettable memories.

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.

HAPPY HOUR

Friday - Sunday | 3pm - 5pm NOW AVAILABLE during Happy Hour

Tapas - Italian Style. 3 for $33 pp

$8 Schooners

$8 Wine

$8 House Spirits Selected Cocktails $10-$15

WEDNESDAY NIGHT is Pasta Night

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Two Entree-sized pasta dishes each

Perfectly matched Italian white & red wine

Each week, we showcase a new regional Italian pasta specially, thoughtfully paired with fabulous wines to complement every bite.

Make your Wednesdays something to look forward to!

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

• A la carte menu also available.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine, elevated by uniquely crafted cocktails and a curated selection of fine wines. Dine indoors or alfresco, taking in magnificent seaside views in a refined yet relaxed setting.

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