Port Stephens News Of The Area 29 JANUARY 2026

By Chris KARAS

Nelson Bay to host Peter Wilson Memorial Cup touch football tournament

FROM Page 1

Co-ordinator Nicole Mitchell

told News Of The Area that the Peter Wilson Memorial Cup tournament was an ideal participation event in the lead up to the Junior State Cup Northern Conference

Championships in Dubbo.

“Our junior representative squads are tracking nicely after an intensive training program and solid performances at the recent Wallsend Junior Rep Gala Day,” she revealed.

“The coaching staff have

focused on honing skills and developing combinations with all the players in tiptop shape and ready to mix it with the best in the region.”

The finest junior boys and girls touch footballers from across NSW will compete in Peter Wilson Memorial Cup

Council’s call for creatives

EXPRESSIONS of Interest

(EOI) are now open for an artwork that reflects local identity and celebrates the Tomaree Sports Complex's unique location amongst Tomaree National Park.

Mayor Leah Anderson said the project is an opportunity to help advance one of the region’s key community and event hubs.

“The Tomaree Sports Complex is one of our largest community sporting facilities, supporting more than 3,000 local players across multiple codes, including soccer, cricket, and AFL,” Mayor Anderson said.

The improvements planned for 2026, including the public art piece, follow upgrades in 2025 that provide increased inclusivity and facility standards.

The continued upgrades deliver on Council’s masterplan and further position the complex as one of the leading regional sports complexes in New South Wales.

Mayor Leah Anderson said that public art has the potential to transform our public places, create new experiences and celebrate

our community identity.

“We value integrating art into public spaces and celebrating our local stories.

This piece will be a focal point of connection for residents and visitors,”

Mayor Anderson said.

Expressions of Interest can be submitted using the Port Stephens SmartyGrants Portal until Friday 30 January 2026. Submissions will be assessed by a panel, with progressing shortlisted artists invited to develop a detailed concept design as part of Stage 2.

For more information about the Expression of Interest, visit haveyoursay. portstephens.nsw.gov.au/ creatives-network

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE APPLICATIONS LODGED BETWEEN 11/01/2026 AND 18/01/2026

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. 799 Medowie Rd 16-2025-752-1 Construct health services facility, signage,

70A Latitude Dr

9 The Maindeck 16-2022-416-4

S4.55(1A) Modification to caravan park with 173 sites, community building and infrastructure – amend Koala Exclusion Fencing

S4.55(1A) Modification to approved demolition, semi-detached dwellings, swimming pools and subdivision – internal and external design changes

Modification to 2 storey dwelling and pool – amend plans

S4.55(1) Modification to 1 into 2 lot Strata subdivision, attached dual occupancy and retaining walls –remove condition 4 and retaining walls

19

swimming pool

competition age categories from U10s to U18s.

The Cup is the largest premier regional junior touch football tournament.

More than 180 teams and 2500 junior players from the Greater Hunter, Manning Valley, Great Lakes, Central

Coast and as far as Dubbo and surrounds will compete.

With plenty of depth in their playing stocks, the Neptunes’ rep teams are brimming with talent and skill and tipped for strong showings at the prestigious event.

The local association has tasted recent success, with Nelson Bay’s championshipwinning U18 Girls, led by Australian Junior Emus international middle Ali Mitchell, winning the 2024 tournament.

Pat Hay’s outstanding U12 Boys combination lifted the trophy last season.

NOTICE OF ADVERTISED DEVELOPMENT Council has received the following Development Applications (DA):

DA NO: 16-2026-7-1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOT: 2 DP: 880718 18A Sturgeon Street RAYMOND TERRACE

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Temporary Use - Entertainment facility (Circus) and associated structures APPLICANT: JANLIN CIRCUSES PTY LTD

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Port Stephens Council

ASSESSING OFFICER: Jay Shah: 4988 0301 or email jay.shah@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (29 January 2026 – 26 February 2026)

SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 26/02/2026

16-2025-741-1 Demolish shed, construct secondary dwelling

NOTICE OF EXHIBITION PLANNING PROPOSAL

Port Stephens Council has prepared a planning proposal seeking to amend the Port Stephens Local Environmental Plan 2013 to enable residential, commercial and conservation outcomes from the subject site – Precinct D in the Medowie Planning Strategy: 46 – 54 Ferodale Road and 754 Medowie Road, Medowie (Lots 3 – 8 in DP 243518).

The planning proposal will be on exhibition from 27 January 2026 to 24 February 2026 at Council’s Administration Building in Raymond Terrace, libraries and website at portstephens. nsw.gov.au. Call 4988 0302 for enquiries. Submissions are invited and can be lodged in writing (please quote 58-2024-2-1-007) with the General Manager up until 5pm on 24 February 2026. Submissions can be made in any format (including video or audio), which can be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size.

Where to view information: 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 make a submission:

Anyone can make a submission to Council during the exhibition period. If the submission is an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be clearly specified. Submissions can be made in any format (including video or audio),

Please note: All written submissions received during the exhibition period will be considered by Council during the assessment of the DA. Submissions are considered to be ‘open access information’ under Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, (GIPA)

Offshore wind farm on Hunter Coast back on the table as government invites R&D applications

joined community groups in accusing Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen of attempting to revive the region’s failed offshore wind proposal by rebranding it research and demonstration (R&D).

Mr Bowen announced on Friday that he had opened applications for R&D licences in Australia’s six offshore wind zones, including off Port Stephens.

While research “development” is largely theoretical and focuses on acquiring new knowledge, “demonstration” involves project-based testing in realistic or near-operational environments.

“These licences will give certainty to domestic and international developers, universities and research cooperatives to pioneer new technological advances in Australian waters,” Mr Bowen said.

NPSGFC President Troy Radford said the minister’s announcement confirms the

government is determined to push industrial-scale energy projects into sensitive marine environments, regardless of evidence or community opposition.

“The offshore wind farm off Port Stephens didn’t stack up - full stop,” Mr Radford said.

“It failed on environmental risk, economic justification, and social licence.

“Calling it ‘R&D’ doesn’t magically fix those failures, it just tries to disguise them.”

The Federal Government had offered a feasibility licence to Norwegian Energy Company Equinor and Australian firm Oceanex to build the $10bn Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm.

But Equinor pulled out in August 2025, declining to take up the lease.

Despite the project being shelved and years of community protests, the 1,854 km² area off the Hunter Coast between Norah Head (Central Coast) and Port Stephens, remains a designated offshore wind zone.

Mr Radford said the

government has produced no credible explanation for how offshore wind infrastructure, even at an R&D stage, would avoid the same impacts that doomed the original proposal, including exclusion zones, disruption to marine habitat, and serious risks to navigation and fishing access.

“You don’t get a different outcome just because you change the label,” he said.

“Industrial structures in the ocean have industrial impacts. Anyone pretending otherwise is not being honest with the public.”

Port Stephens is one of Australia’s most significant recreational and game fishing regions, supporting tourism, small business, and a marine ecosystem that has been responsibly used and protected for generations.

Mr Radford said treating the area as an experimental zone showed a profound disconnect between Canberra and coastal communities.

“Port Stephens is not a laboratory, and our community is not a guinea pig for energy policy experiments.”

The club has called on the minister to release all environmental modelling,

economic assumptions, navigational risk assessments, and stakeholder impact analyses used to justify the R&D proposal.

Nationals Member for Lyne Alison Penfold noted how the announcement was “buried in a media release, late on Friday”.

“The Minister is back at it again, trying to force a wind farm against the community’s wishes”, Ms Penfold said.

“Offshore wind is simply not feasible or wanted off the

Myall [or Hunter] Coast.

“Our community has made this blatantly clear.

“The fact that the Minister is doing this without any consultation with affected communities smacks of… arrogance and disregard.

Followers of the “Save the Myall Coast Save Port Stephens” community group have pledged to make this an election issue.

“Have no doubt, we will turn the protection of our precious beaches into a red

hot issue at the impending NSW state election - and take out our frustration on Labor there,” wrote Ian Roberts.

“We will also maintain the rage into the Port Stephens council election.”

Theresa Green wrote:

“Only the polls can fix this.”

“Plenty of city people holiday in this area, perhaps they may have some interest in their future recreation locations not being contaminated by this rubbish.”

Your home of tennis in Shoal Bay

Open to everyone and all playing levels.

Shoal Bay Tennis Club is located just a short walk from the idyllic Shoal Bay beach in Port Stephens.

The club has 2 synthetic grass courts with ample parking available.

Over the years members have played for pleasure, not competition, and this suits the membership we have today. We win some, we lose some.

The Club’s membership is open to everyone, regardless of age or ability.

We’re a friendly Club and get together twice a week to exercise and have some fun. Our motto is – “if you want me to play, hit it to me!”

We’re also passionate about our junior members. We strongly believe all children should be given the opportunity to learn the game and interact with different sections of the Community.

13 Messines St Shoal Bay

Cosette De LORENZO 0468 575 452 cosette@newsofthearea.com.au

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

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

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

EDITOR

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THE State Government has launched a “Name and Shame” list of real estate agents, property managers and strata managing agents who have faced enforcement action.

Available through the NSW Fair Trading website, it allows homeowners, buyers and renters to check if an agent has been fined, suspended or had their licence cancelled.

It also includes public warnings to protect consumers from high-risk traders, enforceable undertakings and prosecution outcomes.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said the list will lift standards across the sector.

“Publishing serious breaches and repeated non-compliance sends a clear message that accountability matters,” he said.

Key information such as a trader’s name, ABN or ACN, licence number, and suburb are listed, as well as a clear description of the

Pearls’ pop-up op-shop returns

By Thomas O’KEEFE

LOCAL women’s charitable group, the Pearls of Port Stephens, set up yet another successful ‘Buy My Wardrobe’ in Hawks Nest on Saturday 24 January.

In a prime location at the new Myall University of the Third Age (MU3A) hall, next to Hawks Nest Community Hall, the Pearls attracted plenty of interest.

The hall was made available for use to the Pearls by the MU3A, and featured artworks, for sale, by members of the MU3A Art Group.

“[MU3A] made the space available to the Pearls because they are a charitable group of locals who will give their proceeds to local and worthy causes,” explained MU3A President Roger Digby.

Kerry Paterson, the main Pearl organiser of the Buy My Wardrobe event, said the second-hand fashion market keeps clothes out of landfill, money in the local economy and supports local causes.

“Monies raised…will go to the community’s local Free Clinic Bus, and also to Rotary in Raymond Terrace, who will use

it to help domestic violence victims, as well as helping Blaze Aid,” Kerry told News Of The Area.

Blaze Aid assists people in Victoria who lost their fences and property to recent fires.

The Free Clinic Bus transports locals from across the region to medical appointments in Newcastle and Maitland, and takes people to visit friends or relatives in hospitals.

Kerry and the Pearls have made their group synonymous with the Buy My Wardrobe event.

The market has also previously run for International Women’s Day and regularly at the Pindimar Markets in October.

Styles on sale included mostly summer items.

Some clothes were brand new, donated by

those who perhaps thought twice, still with tags on them. Only women’s clothes were available, along with jewellery and accessories, even a masquerade mask, as the relatively small men’s fashion contingent was snapped up early.

Plenty of visitors were entering town for the last blast of the school holidays, and Australia Day long weekend.

Property agents ‘named and shamed’

type of action and why it was taken. Processes are in place to ensure appropriate levels of privacy, according to Strata and Property Services Commissioner Angus Abadee.

“The list has been built with clear publication guidelines and timeframes and processes to correct errors and manage privacy

Trading Minister

where appropriate,” he said.

“It’s about transparency that’s fair to consumers and businesses.”

Last financial year, NSW Fair Trading undertook nearly 500 investigations and more than 300 inspections in the property and rental sector.

It issued over 300 penalty notices worth more than $430,000, and carried out significant licensing actions including cancellations, suspensions and disqualifications.

Backed by an $8.4 million investment, the newly established Strata and Property Services Taskforce has also placed additional inspectors in the field.

Together, they have completed more than 186 Anytime, Anywhere inspections with a focus

on maintaining compliance standards across the property sector.

This tool follows the Government’s proposed slate of reforms to the state’s underquoting laws.

Subject to consultation, the legislative changes will significantly increase penalties for misleading price estimates to $110,000 or three times the agent’s commission (whichever is greater), mandate a price or price guide on all advertising, and require agents to publish a Statement of Information to help prospective buyers understand how the selling price was calculated.

For more information and to view the Name and Shame List, visit the NSW Fair Trading website: nsw.gov.au/ departments-and-agencies/ fair-trading/how-weregulate/name-and-shameregister

Bruce Townsend named in Australia Day Honours

By Sue STEPHENSON

BRUCE Townsend has been recognised on the Australia Day Honours List for his service to the Raymond Terrace community..

Mr Townsend was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division.

Fellow members of the Lions Club of Raymond Terrace, in which Mr

Townsend is a long-time member and past president, describe him as a “a caring, compassionate and thoughtful person.”

“Bruce has dedicated many years to supporting our community through his involvement with Raymond Terrace Lions, St Vincent de Paul, HealthOne, Raymond Terrace Community Preschool, and St Brigid’s Church,” the club shared after

news of his honour became public.

“He is also well-known and fondly remembered as the former proprietor of Townsend Pharmacy, where he served generations of local families with care and professionalism.

“We are incredibly proud to call him one of our own.”

This year’s Australia Day list, announced by GovernorGeneral Sam Mostyn AC,

recognises 949 Australians and included awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards, and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.

The list includes people recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious,

Medowie High School budget concerns

By Cosette DE LORENZO

CONSTRUCTION of Medowie High School is progressing, with the school set to open in 2027.

“Works are well underway,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.

Piling works have been completed, with additional stages of construction now moving forward.

The school will include 29 classrooms, specialist labs, a library and sports facilities.

The project was announced during the election with an initial

budget of $53 million, but costs have since almost doubled to $96 million.

The rise in costs has prompted scrutiny of the project, particularly around planning decisions and whether surrounding infrastructure has been adequately addressed.

Port Stephens Councillor Ben Niland said the lack of planned upgrades to surrounding roads and intersections raised

concerns about traffic congestion and student safety once the school opens.

He said there was “minimal allowance for footpaths other than at the front gate and up to Ferodale at the ambulance station.”

Cr Niland argued that the existing road network was not designed to accommodate the expected increase in buses, private vehicles and pedestrian movements associated with a large high school.

“[There is] no intention to upgrade the intersection of Ferodale and Abundance

distinguished and conspicuous honours.

“Throughout 2025, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Australian honours system and the people who, for the past halfcentury, have epitomised the best of Australia.

“The qualities and accomplishments of this year’s honourees reflect Australia’s values for service, community, kindness,

curiosity, tenacity, and care.

“As the list so vividly showcases, so many Australians continue to give the best of themselves across many endeavours, in the interest of others.”

Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at the Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

Rd which is going to become chaotic when you throw in 600 kids leaving school in the afternoon.”

As construction continues, calls remain for greater consideration of access, safety and supporting infrastructure to ensure the school is appropriately integrated into the surrounding community.

$4.2m to improve shark detection

NEW research, real-time tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer.

The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviourparticularly before and after weather events.

Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW) shark surveillance has been significantly expanded with 30 beaches added to the 50 currently monitored during school holidays.

Nineteen of the new sites are in Sydney and 11 are in regional NSW.

They include Crowdy Head, where a woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in late November.

In the Port Stephens Local Government Area (LGA), drones currently operate at Fingal Bay and Birubi surf life saving clubs.

While, in addition to Crowdy Head, drones in the MidCoast Council LGA are at Cape Hawke, Tea GardensHawks Nest, Forster and Black Head.

Drones will also increase operations to seven days a

week through to the end of the April school holidays.

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said the new package represents a 90 percent increase on the current shark surveillance drone program, which means an additional 35,000 flying hours from 24 January to 26 April.

"We know our SLS drones are an effective eye in the sky when it comes to early shark detection and warning beach users,” he said.

"So far in 2025/26, 50 Surf Life Saving NSW drones from Tweed to Bega have completed 29,431 flights over 8044 flying hours.

“During that time 461 sharks were sighted.

"Our lifeguards and lifesavers enacted 170 countermeasures including beach evacuations, beach siren, drone siren, and rescue vessels."

The additional funding follows heightened community concern and recognises the importance of clear, evidence-based safety messaging for swimmers and surfers.

In announcing the new measures, Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW Tara Moriarty, acknowledged that there

q The state government has significantly increased shark surveillance through to the end of the April school holidays.

is no single solution to preventing shark attacks.

“No government can ever promise to make the water completely safe, which is why we’re using a range of tools to keep people informed and as safe as possible,” she said.

As part of the package, the NSW Government will strengthen community

awareness, with an expanded SharkSmart education campaign, an additional mobile education van, new and updated signage, and increased social media alerts and community warnings during periods of elevated risk.

Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) shark scientists.

Shark listening stations will be installed in Sydney Harbour, allowing faster detection of tagged sharks, while focused research on bull sharks in the harbour and other estuaries will be carried out, including tagging and monitoring led by the Department of

These measures sit alongside the 2025/26 Shark Management Program already operating across NSW, which includes 305 SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real Time) drumlines in 19 local government areas for year-round coverage, and tracking the movements of tagged sharks via 37 tagged shark listening stations, with at least one station in every coastal local government area for year-round coverage.

In December, the Government announced an additional $2.5 million enhancement to its 2025/26 program, with drones starting a week earlier than normal in summer; weekend flights from February to April; an expedited rollout of additional drones and training for Surfing NSW; and, triple the funding for the rollout of community shark bite kits in regional coastal areas.

All drone locations across NSW can be found on the SharkSmart website at sharksmart.nsw.gov.au/

The cost of veterinary care...

Veterinary care IS expensive. But it is a common misconception that this means veterinarians are lining their pockets at the expense of animal lovers. Cost constraints can add to emotional distress when pets face illness or misadventure. Veterinarians are acutely aware of this and seek to ensure pet guardians are kept informed of costs and given options within their means.

The rising costs of business including wages, superannuation, rent, insurance, medical equipment and supplies mean that veterinary practices need to pass on these costs to their clients. A global shortage of experienced veterinarians is contributing, as the cost of recruiting and retaining veterinary practitioners has risen exponentially since COVID. Sadly, negative public perception and interactions with veterinary teams is one of the biggest causes of this crisis, leading to veterinarians leaving the profession, or in some cases taking their own lives.

The key is transparency and communication. There is no shame in expressing financial limitations for veterinary care, and we will work with you to find the best solution. But please, be kind. We are here to help.

Surf lifesavers remain vigilant

By Thomas O’KEEFE

RECENT reports of shark attacks along the NSW coast have made many holidaymakers nervous about going back into the water.

At Hawks Nest’s Bennetts Beach, the first good beach day following several days of hazy weather, seaweed and strong nor-easterly winds came with a sense of caution.

While the beach was busy, with families setting up umbrellas, cabanas and towels close together, only a small number of people went swimming, and most stayed close to the shore.

The concern is understandable.

Four shark attacks were reported within 48 hours, three in Sydney and one near Port Macquarie, with reports also emerging of a child missing near Old Bar.

Although the Myall Coast sits between several of these locations, the situation is more complex than it may first appear, and local

conditions play an important role in beach safety.

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Life Saving Club (TGHNSLSC) Education Officer Nat Skelly told News Of The Area, “Shark attacks happen quite rarely, but when they do, the media makes a big deal of it, so everyone

reacts as you would expect.”

“Nippers’ parents are understandably worried, but we exercise the utmost vigilance, including evacuation and lost-child protocols already practiced and in place, and we also have [drones] on duty, including training for volunteer pilots while the kids are near the water.”

TGHNSLSC’s shark protocols are also clear and well-practiced.

Protocols include loud speakers on the highly visible lifesavers’ “pie cart” to broadcast warnings, lifesavers line up on the beach to make the warnings visible, and Inflatable Rescue Boats and jetskis are launched to pull people out of the water.

The real cause of recent shark activity near the coast has been laid at the foot of the recent rains, which have seen larger-than-usual amounts of nutrients wash into the

estuaries and river mouths. Rain can attract fish and small sea creatures, which in turn draws sharks closer to shore to feed.

The Sydney attacks were at Vaucluse’ Shark Beach and Manly’s North Steyne beach, both areas where heavy rainfalls flush out densely populated suburbia into the harbour or the sea.

The Port Macquarie and Old Bar events happened within significant proximity of the Manning and Hastings river mouths, respectively.

The standard-issue warning is to avoid entering the beaches’ waters in the days after a heavy rainfall, any time there are murky or turbid waters, at dawn and dusk, and generally near river mouths.

It is recommended that swimmers give it 24 hours after a major rainfall on open beaches and 72 hours in harbours and bays.

Astronaut and runner win nation’s highest honours

By Zac DE SILVA/AAP

AS A little girl, Katherine Bennell-Pegg would lie on the dry grass in her backyard, gazing up at the stars and dreaming about reaching them one day.

While she's yet to float in space, the now-41-year-old is closer than most others could ever hope for.

The first Australian astronaut to train under their own flag, Ms BennellPegg has been awarded one of the nation's highest honours - Australian of the Year.

The trailblazing space scientist said she was inspired by Paul ScullyPower and Andy Thomas - astronauts who grew up in Australia but travelled to space as American citizens in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.

"When I received my blue flight suit, and right there, bright on the left shoulder was the Australian flag, it was quite emotional, because it marked something so much greater

than myself," she said during her acceptance speech at a ceremony in Canberra.

"It said that the door has opened for Australia to take our place at the forefront of human endeavour."

Ms Bennell-Pegg said she hoped to use the award to inspire young people to chase their dreams.

"It gave me hope - hope that one day more Aussie flags on spacesuits will follow," she said.

Born in Sydney, Ms BennellPegg grew up on the city's northern beaches and studied aeronautical engineering and physics at Sydney University.

She then studied two masters degrees in Europe and in 2021 was invited to undertake astronaut training with the European Space Agency.

In 2024, she became the first Australian woman to graduate from the program, and the first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag.

While she waits to be called up for space flight, the 41-yearold now calls Adelaide her home, where she volunteers with the West Beach Surf Life Saving club.

In December 2024, she was also appointed as an Air Force reservist.

Ms Bennell-Pegg takes over

as Australian of the Year from AFL legend Neale Daniher, who received the honour in 2025, for his work raising well over $100 million for research into motor neurone disease.

Daniher, who suffers from MND himself, didn't attend the awards ceremony at Canberra's National Arboretum because he was too unwell to fly, his wife Jan said.

"We call MND the beast. He's struggled in the last couple of months," she told awards night host Leigh Sales.

"MND has taken away Neale's ability to move, talk, eat swallow and eventually it will take away his ability to breathe," Ms Daniher said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the creation of the Neale Daniher MND Clinical Network, a government-funded program to help tackle the neurological condition.

The program will help more Australians access clinical trials, treatment and care, Mr Albanese announced.

"Neale, your courage and advocacy has brought hope to so many, and we will ensure your work continues to change lives," he said.

Awards for Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero were also handed out on Sunday night.

Former electrician-turnedultra-marathon-runner Nedd Brockmann took out the Young Australian category, recognised for running from Perth to Sydney to raise money for a homelessness charity.

Pioneering dementia researcher Henry Brodaty won Senior Australian of the Year for his work identifying cost-effective, targeted interventions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The local hero award was given to Frank Mitchell, a Noongar man from Western Australia who has created more than 70 upskilling roles for Indigenous people in the construction and electrical industries.

Australian Indigenous honours for star netballers Lucy and Maalaa

By Chris KARAS

EMERGING Port Stephens

netballers Lucy De Souza and Maalaa McLennan will represent the Australian Indigenous Netball Schools squad in 2026.

The outstanding duo earned selection after skilful performances at the annual Budgies Indigenous Junior Netball Carnival recently at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena.

Goal attack, 13-year-old, Maalaa and talented wing attack Lucy,14, are set to gain valuable international experience with the Australian Schools Netball teams on their upcoming representative tours to the Gold Coast, New Zealand and Fiji.

Both Lucy and Maalaa are junior products of Port Stephens Netball Association and now compete for the Norths club based at Stockton.

Midcourt ace Lucy, who developed her game with Medowie Netball Club, was named in the Australian

Indigenous Under 15s squad while sharp shooter Maalaa, formerly of the Karuah Pearls, will line up for the Australian Under 14s team.

The pair impressed keen judges with their allaction displays for the NSW Echidnas at the Budgies Junior Netball Carnival - a national event that brings together Indigenous players from across Australia to represent their states and territories.

The four-day event was hosted at Nissan Arena, home of the Queensland Firebirds, and showcased some of the best emerging Indigenous netball talent in the country.

Not only did the Budgies tournament provide elite competition but also celebrated culture, connection and community - offering players the opportunity to build friendships, leadership skills and cultural pride.

In another huge fillip, Lucy was named as one of Hunter Netball’s 2026

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

By Gary WATT

RESULTS from a 2B

Aggregate Stableford competition played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 19th January 2026 with 55 players at Tanilba Bay GC for the Founders Trophy.

Overall Winners : Tony Care & Alan Dale 72pts.

Overall Runners Up : Michael Day & Rod Magick 69pts.

Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole : Div 1 : Frank Vandruten.

Div 2 : Bruce Brideoake.

Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole :

Div 1 : Michael Day.

Div 2 : Ian Dean

Drive & Chip, 7th Hole :

By Lee RANKIN

Div 1 : Gary Watt. Div 2 : John Jefferson.

Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, Div 1 : Barry Leo. Div 2 : Peta Slattery. Ball Winners : Col Kerrison & Lester Lake 68pts, Graham Woolley & Warren Deuis 68pts, David Middlebrook & Ralph Brown 67pts, Jenny Hale & Les Moran 66pts, Brian Marshall & J ohn Jefferson 66pts, and Shayne Mullarvey & Jim Asvestas 65pts. Lucky Draw Prize Winner : Gary Watt.

Future Partner Program Athletes, a talented group of emerging players to be guided by Program Coach Lisa Lewis throughout the season.

Promising Nelson Bay netballer Liberty Phillips was also chosen in the squad.

De Souza and McLennan were joined in Brisbane by two other top Port Stephens juniors in 12-year-old goalkeeper/shooter Leiana Manton (Karuah Pearls) and midcourter Sarah Byrne of the Paterson River Netball Club.

All four served the NSW Echidnas with distinction and demonstrated a steely dedication, skill and pride in representing their community at a national level.

Top prospect Lucy shone for the Echidnas Under 16s and also plays representative netball for Dungog and Hunter Metro. She has joined the Norths club that competes in the Newcastle Netball Association competition and her inclusion in the Australian Indigenous Under 15 Girls squad is a remarkable achievement at her age.

Prolific-scoring Maalaa, a current Port Stephens

Tanilba

representative, starred for the Echidnas Under 14s and her national selection underlines the young shooter’s exceptional talent and potential.

Young Leiana represented the NSW Echidnas Under 12s, with her team achieving a strong fifth-place finish in a highly competitive division.

The Port Stephens junior representative has proved a stand out defender for the Pearls and continues to impress as a rising young athlete.

Sarah, another capable

midcourter, represented the Echidnas Under 18s, with her team finishing with an impressive national ranking of three.

The inspirational leader continues to be a strong role model for younger players in the region and will represent Port Stephens at the Netball NSW State Championships in Sydney later this year.

The achievements of these four young athletes are a proud moment for Port Stephens and a testament to the strength of grassroots netball in the

region, inspiring the next generation of players to aim high and dream big.

Looking ahead, the community will likely see both Lucy and Maalaa fundraising locally in the coming months as they work towards funding their upcoming representative tours.

These international opportunities will provide invaluable experience, further supporting their development as young athletes and ambassadors for Indigenous netball.

Bay Veterans Golf Club

RESULTS OF PLAY FOR 2Oth JANUARY '26

The weather was perfect for golf, cloudy and mild for most of the morning. We played an Individual Stableford over 9 holes, both back and front nines. A roll up of 22 players today made for a very relaxing and smooth flowing round after a hectic start due to a change

to our starting and scoring procedure.

Front nine results:

Winner :

Gary Payseno nett 17

Runner up: Steve Robards nett 16 on count back.

Ball winners: Greg Garvin nett 16

Peter Martyn nett 14

Vince Schubert nett 13

Ray Stubbs nett 13

Longest Drive Winners : A grade Rob McKinney B grade John Street C grade

Greg Garvin

Back nine results :

Winner: Laurie Northey nett 24

Runner up :

Grahane Glover nett 22

Ball Winners : Barry Disch nett 20

David Enderby nett 19

Mark Moore nett 18

Steve Enderby nett 16

Longest Drive Winners : A grade Ron Dews B grade

Laurie Northey

Key forward signings for Gropers

By Chris KARAS

NELSON Bay Rugby Club have bolstered their first grade stocks for 2026 with the signatures of premiershipwinning Scone Brumbies prop Jack Albury and Epping Rams hooker forward Luke Sweeney.

Both recruits are a welcome addition to the Gropers’ playing ranks as the club strives for premiership honours in the Hunter Suburban Mens Rugby competition.

Rugged front rower Albury, who works in the mining industry, has made the move from Scone to Salamander Bay and gives the Gropers extra forward depth.

A Brumbies junior, he is a skilful ball playing prop with a sharp turn of speed who helped Scone capture last year’s Hunter Suburban

premiership with a strong performance in the 2617 Grand Final win over Singleton Red Bulls.

The versatile Sweeney can play anywhere in the forward pack and proved a wily customer for the Rams in the Sydney Sub Districts competition.

A plumber by trade, Luke relocated to Port Stephens where he met Nelson Bay Rugby president Gavin Rocher which led to him joining the club in the New Year.

Incoming first grade coach Michael Squires has appointed forward dynamo Jordan Byfield as his assistant for 2026.

The Nelson Bay men's squad commenced preseason training last week with a good roll up at Bill Strong Oval.

First player through the

gates for training was hooker/ flanker Ollie Edwards with the astute Squires putting the squad through their paces - providing insight into the style of play he expects for season 2026 which has a three pronged focus on fitness, ball work skills and structure.

Coach Squires locked in two home trial matches at the Groperdome against NSW Suburban Rugby clubs Manly Savers and Epping Rams.

The Savers, runners up in 2025, return to the Bay for the first trial on Saturday March 7 and again will provide a good test for the Gropers squad.

Second and final trial is scheduled for Saturday 21 March against the Rams, who finished semi finalists last season.

Kick off time for both trials is to be confirmed.

What’s on at the Golfie

THERE’S no slowing down at Hawks Nest Golf Club as the school holidays draw to a close and summer continues to deliver perfect golfing weather.

Midweek fun is back on the calendar, with Wednesday nights firing up again thanks to the return of Putt for Dough, following the everpopular monster meat raffles.

Crowd-favourite meat raffles also run every Friday and Sunday, giving locals and visitors alike another great reason to head down to the club.

Live music is locked in for this Sunday 1 February, offering the perfect excuse to settle in, unwind, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the Golfie.

“It’s been such a busy and exciting summer here at the golf club,” says Beth, Functions Coordinator at Hawks Nest Golf Club.

“Even though the school holidays are wrapping up, we’ve still got plenty coming up for everyone to enjoy.”

Whether you’re a local regular or visiting the area, Hawks Nest Golf Club is in top condition and ready to welcome you.

And with social golf available every day, there’s never been a better time to hit the course.

Be sure to visit our What’s On page at www. hawksnestgolfclub.com.au or keep an eye on our Facebook page for the latest updates. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Golfie! q Pat McMahon is back at the Golf Club this Sunday 1st February.

q Our Ladies Charity Day raised over $2000 for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Charities.

Us: 02 4982 4800 www.clublemontree.com.au

Dr, Lemon Tree Passage

The Write Direction: comparison time of the year

By John BLACKBOURN

THE way the weather is at the present time, we have the opportunity to remain inside and see what new changes have been made to contracts for our largest expenditures.

Our Council rates are a good starting point and despite the barrier to cost increases, (IPART etc.) they only seem to climb each year, usually well above those safety limits.

Then there are home and contents insurance premiums with the most aggressive

increases, but it can be said that they are more obviously justified with property values at all time highs plus dramatic price rises for both building materials and construction wages.

The hidden devil in the detail is your postcode, some of which are declared to be areas of probable flood inundation, but no authority wants to be named for making that call.

Once you declare the 2324 postcode, the response usually is that we are unable to offer you a quote as none of our companies wish to insure property in that area.

Reliable insurance companies can still be found but there are few

On theCouch

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

Dear Jasminda,

I was driving up a long and winding road in my ute on the weekend when I passed a cyclist. She seemed to be doing it very tough and wasn't making much progress. Should I have offered her [and her bike] a lift to the next town?

I'm now regretting that I didn't stop to assist.

Gerard P.

Dear Gerard,

One person's torture is another's personal challenge.

Although the cyclist you passed may have been in phy -

of them that need to be active in order to secure your business.

Electricity is the one most people mention when the monthly or quarterly bill arrives.

A new feature in these accounts is that the supplier must state if you are at the lowest cost rate and how you could save money if you move to a different plan.

Even though I have 10 KW of roof top solar, solar hot water plus a 10 KW solar battery, my costs are miniscule, but I thought I would go through the process with my supplier in order to see if there is a

sical agony (her calf muscles screaming with each pedal push), when she finally reached the crest of the hill, she no doubt felt the elation of achievement, which would have sustained her through the remainder of her ride.

Unless she was sitting on the side of the road with a flat tyre, I think you were right to continue driving (even then, she probably had a repair kit).

Cyclists battle so many obstacles when they ride on roads -- cars that drive past too fast or too close, roadwork, potholes, inclement weather, and passengers getting out of their vehicles without looking -- that they are pretty seasoned (or soon learn to be).

She may have just been riding slowly to conserve her remaining energy.

Still, it was kind of you to be thoughtful enough to reflect

beneficial surprise waiting for me. They thought I could save money by switching to a different plan but said that if I was not happy with the results achieved by the new plan, I could not change back to the plan I now have.

A red flag for me.

The new plan offered was 2 cents per KWH higher for peak, 3 cents higher for shoulder and half a cent higher for off-peak.

on whether you should or shouldn't have stopped.

I'm sure she had a mobile phone in her backpack ready to ring a friend or family member if the going got too tough (unless she was a lone tourist, and then your offer may have been more alarming than the steep incline she was trying to navigate).

If you are thinking of stopping for an exhausted cyclist in the future, perhaps just ask if there is anyone you can call for them or check if they have enough water and provisions to sustain them until their next rest stop.

A simple 'are you okay?' if it is safe to do so would no doubt be greatly appreciated.

The only difference in order to make my bill cost less was that greatly irritating “daily availability fee” which was 18 cents less per day. The miniscule 4 cents per KWH for my solar feed-in credit remained the same for both options. I obviously remained with the deal I have now, but the fact remains that you can be led to believe anything you are told when they do the arithmetic in this fashion.

Comparing deals regularly is the only way we can survive price increases on these necessities we can’t live without.

Honours list: gender balance ‘cause for concern’

CONGRATULATIONS to the 680 Australians recognised in the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list, which we the Council of the Order of Australia, recommended to the GovernorGeneral.

This represents the highest number since Australia Day 2024.

The recipients come from all parts of the country and their service, achievements and impact are remarkable.

All are deserving of recognition through our nation’s honours system for their service to the Australian community.

It is particularly pleasing to note the significant number of people being recognised with the highest meritorious award in the system, the Companion of the Order of Australia – and on this occasion an equal representation between women and men.

However, the gender balance of this year’s honours list more broadly is both a cause for concern and, the Council hopes, a prompt for

community action.

Honours in the Order of Australia are a result of nominations – anyone can nominate a worthy Australian for recognition.

In previous years the Council has considered an even gender balance of nominations, however, over time, this has led to a significantly larger pool of nominations for men left to be considered.

Many more nominations are still being received for men than women and the Council must consider the nominations for Australians that are in the system.

There is no doubt there are as many outstanding women contributing to our communities as there are men – the fact an equal number of women and men have been appointed Companions of the Order in this list underlines that.

The Council would like to see this balance reflected across all nominations and, therefore, outcomes at all levels of award.

We need Australians nominating outstanding women for recognition.

Nominating is simple – the form is online and help is available.

Nominators need to provide

information about the person they are nominating and three referees who can attest to the person’s service and impact.

We encourage all Australians to look around their community, their workplaces, and the whole of our society, identify the women, as well as the men, who make a difference and whose impact is profound and nominate them so they can be celebrated through the Order of Australia.

On behalf of the Council of the Order of Australia

Where you can pick up your paper

If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us. media@newsofthearea.com.au

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)

Stinker’s History: almost 20 years a marine park

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

OVER the past 50 or so years, the pure waters of Port Stephens have been threatened by viruses and parasites in the oyster industry, acid sulphate from the disturbed soil leaching into the water column, and inappropriate development and aquatic industries - as with the coal wharf at Fingal and the proposed 90-hectare pearl farm.

Added to these issues are algal bloom, invasive species, and the increasing pressure exerted by a growing population.

In 2007, moves were made by the State Government to establish a huge, monitored area stretching from Cape Hawke (Forster} in the north to the southerly limit at Birubi Beach, three nautical miles to sea and all rivers and lakes between the extremes, to protect the aquatic environment for future

generations.

The Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, the biggest MP in the state, was created to achieve these aims.

Looking back over 20 years, you may well ask,”what has been achieved?”

Scientists would say that it is far too early to show significant change, and I agree with that.

What I can report is that we have all but lost our turtle and seahorse population over that period, along with acres and acres of sea grass vital to the health of the waterways.

The oyster industry, iconic to Port Stephens, continues to struggle to stay afloat.

Pleasing to report, however,

is that the PS-GLMP Advisory Committee has been formed and is expected to gather within the coming month.

If Port Stephens is to remain the Water Wonderland that we all believe it to be, we, as a community, will be asked to play a much more active part in protection of the Port than we have done in the last 20 years

Stinker’s Fishin’: fishing wonderland

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

ONE of the most frequent questions I am asked is, “where can I catch a fish around Broughton Island?”

The beaches around the island are spectacular with excellent fishing for whiting and flathead in the summer months. It is the surrounding reef system that provides ideal habitat for snapper, mulloway, teraglin, a growing population of pearl perch and kingfish, which gets the recreational fishers very excited.

There are literally hundreds of spots to drop the anchor or drift around the island.

It all depends on the direction of the current, the wind direction and strength and the size and direction of the swell. There is no “X marks the spot”.

Generally speaking, in a strong southerly wind, target the north side of the island and the opposite applies.

Island GPS marks are freely available on the internet.

I do prefer to chase snapper in a solid northeasterly breeze on the extensive reef system south off Cod Rock.

I anchor, berley heavily and float an unweighted king prawn, fillet of bonito or slimy mackerel down - just on sundown. Rarely do I go home empty-handed.

I’m sure if you drifted and tossed plastics you would have equal success. Maybe do better. Give it a shot.

Another spot I would suggest is to drift along the inner wall on East Head working plastics close to the rock face.

Other spots I have had success are the Gutz, North Island and The Sisters.

Ask your local Bait and Tackle outlet to identify these spots.

Like I said there are hundreds of spots where snapper can be caught – in the right conditions.

It must be realized that Broughton Island is part of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park and a significant area has been classified as Sanctuary Zone.

As mentioned, the restrictions and zoning within the MP are currently being reviewed.

Maps are available throughout Port Stephens.

If you are considering visiting the island there are a few precautions to consider.

Firstly, a boat that can handle the conditions, preferably over 16 feet.

Contact Marine Rescue on your departure and arrival at the island.

There are shallow reefs that need to be avoided and, of course, you must also be prepared for a change in weather conditions.

Basic, but adequate, camping facilities are provided by the NPWS who you will need to contact if you intend staying overnight as a camping fee does apply.

Travelling by private boat will require an understanding of the shallow reef system and the availability of mooring facilities.

Running up onto the beach also requires thought.

A dinghy would be recommended to ferry supplies from the moored boat onto the island.

Keep in close contact with Port Stephens Marine Rescue and be aware of changes in the weather patterns. Broughton Island is a wonderland, however it can become quite inhospitable if the weather turns.

An alternative is to engage one of the charter vessels based in Nelson Bay to ferry you to the island and to pick you up at the end of your stay.

Pythons pounce and stay in finals mix

By CHRIS KARAS

SPIN king Jason Eveleigh has piloted Port Stephens Pythons into finals reckoning in the 2025-26 Newcastle District Cricket Division One competition.

The experienced campaigner was at his wily best last Saturday and instrumental in the Pythons’ five wicket victory over rivals Warners Bay in a one day fixture at Feighan Oval.

Eveleigh grabbed the superb figures of 4-5 in a mesmerising eight over

spell of left arm orthodox spin bowling to help the Port Stephens X1 bundle the home side out for a paltry total of 72.

Warners Bay openers

Scott Byrnes, 19, and Derek Lodge posted a partnership of 34 before Eveleigh combined with Matthew Dean (3-6 off eight overs), all rounder Jarrod Moxey (226 off six) and Josh Moxey (1-1 off two) to dismiss their opponents inside 38 overs.

Vice captain Jarrod Moxey cracked an unbeaten 30 off twenty-nine deliveries

with four boundaries and brother Josh, 19, as the Pythons (5-73) cruised to victory in quick style.

It was the Port Stephens team’s sixth win of the season and lifts them into fourth spot on the ladder after 14 rounds.

The Pythons second grade X1 are also entrenched in the top four after registering a four wicket triumph over Warners Bay at King Park Raymond Terrace.

Port Stephens compiled 6-172 off their 35 overs with stylish number three

Hayden Cekanauskas smashing 50 runs off 52 balls with six boundaries and a six.

He was supported by opening batsman Jordon Hurst (31 runs off 34 balls) and an unbeaten 34 off 27 balls by all rounder Brock Hawley.

In reply, Warners Bay could only muster a tally of 99 with number four Stuart Adams top scoring with 28 and Pythons bowlers Jeremy Kirk (4-15 off seven overs) and Andrew Jordan (2-25 off seven) the chief destroyers.

Tilligerry Social Golf Club

23/1/26

OUTRIGHT winner.

Kim Miller. 43

Runner up

Brian Riddell. 38

Bonus points winner.

Bill MCMaster. 39

Ball winners

Bob West. 38

Hugh Potts. 37

Peter Couvaras. 34

Colin Marsden. 33

Bryan Porter. 33

Phil Germon. 32

John McDonald. 32

Ron McKay. 32

Excellence in Sport award for snowboarder Nate

By Chris KARAS

A FAMILY wish has triggered a prominent pathway for budding Salamander Bay snowboarder

Nate Hodgson.

The 12-year-old Tomaree High School boy developed a love for the

snow back in 2019 after elder sister Kaylee was diagnosed with cancer at the age of eight.

Her ‘Grant-A-Wish’ was to see and play in snow for the first time and when the Hodgson family ventured down to Jindabyne to realise Kaylee’s dream, a young Nate became ‘hooked.’

Showing a fierce determination and fighting spirit, brave Kaylee recovered from her cancer scare and is now a thriving teenager while athletic Nate has blossomed into an

q Talented Salamander Bay athlete Nate Hodgson was the recipient of a Tomaree High School Excellence in Sport Year 7 Class Champion Award.

Double gold for star Ashlyn Wall

By Chris KARAS

RAYMOND Terrace Athletics

Centre have unearthed a real find in middle distance running sensation Ashlyn Wall.

The budding 17-yearold track ace demonstrated her sprinting prowess with a double gold medal haul at the recent NSW Country Athletics Championships in Dubbo.

Fleet footed Ashlyn powered her way to victory in the Women's U20s 400m and 800m finals and collected a silver medal in the 1500m decider to cap an

outstanding meet.

The talented Wall was one of nine Raymond Terrace club athletes ranging in age from 9-years-old to Masters (50-59-years-old) that competed in a total of 21 events in sweltering and windy conditions to annex five gold, six silver and three bronze medals plus numerous personal best times.

Based on their results in the 497 scored events, the Raymond Terrace team also finished a commendable 25 from the field of 87 clubs.

Other local athletes to impress were Sienna

Newton, who clinched gold in the 100m and long jump in the Para U20s T/F38; Matthew Newton, claimed gold in the Masters 100m and silver in shot put; Ebony Newton, grabbed silver in the Open 100m; 14-yearold Audrey Russell, silver in the Open 3000m race walk and bronze in the 1500m; Dixie Conlon, silver in the U20s 100m hurdles and long jump; Asher MacDonald, bronze in the 13s Girls long and triple jumps and fifth in the 400m and 800m; nineyear-old Georges Catteau, fourth in the 9s shot put, seventh in the 800m and

eighth in discus; and Sydnee Farrelly, finished fifth in the 18s 800m and 1500m events.

The Raymond Terrace Athletics Centre has resumed Saturday morning competitions with just five more to go before the end of their season on 7 March which is followed by three weekends of State Championships.

q Rising Raymond Terrace club athletes Asher MacDonald and Audrey Russell collected medals at the recent NSW Country Athletics Championships in Dubbo.

elite snowboarder with the potential to go a long way.

His all-round sporting prowess shone through like a beacon last year with the talented Hodgson stamping his mark across five different disciplines.

“I enjoy competing in a variety of sports, but have worked hard on my snowboarding routine in recent years,” a dedicated Hodgson told News Of The Area.

Nate represented Tomaree High School at Regional swimming in the 50m and 100m freestyle; cross country over 5km; track athletics in the 400m and 1500m.

Bradman Award. Wendy Couvaras NTP4TH.

A. Ron McKay.

B. Bill McMaster D&C7TH.

A. John McDonald. B. Bob West D&C18TH.

A. John McDonald. B. Colin Marsden Money hole.

A. Phil Germon

Lucky number. 6. Grahame Glover There were 18 starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game Friday 30/1/26 4BBB.

He also competed at the Northern NSW and NSW/ACT Inter Schools Snowboarding Championships.

“Hopefully I can qualify for more snowboarding competitions this year and improve my technique and style” exclaimed the former Soldiers Point Public School captain.

A promising rover, he lined up for the Port Stephens OzTag junior representative squad and showed his wares on the touch football field.

For his sterling efforts, Nate received a Tomaree High Excellence in Sport Year 7 Class Champion Award at the school’s end-of-year Awards ceremony.

Rugby League Nines success for emerging prop Mason,13

FROM Page 24

a force to be reckoned with as the super slick Raiders, coached by former Canberra NRL star Albert Hopoate, dropped only one game and finished finals day undefeated to lift the prestigious Nines trophy.

The strapping colt told News Of The Area that he revelled in the pace and endurance of rugby league Nines and felt “satisfaction” in achieving success with his good mates.

“Our team bonded well and were committed to the task with all players encouraging one another

and executing our game plans on the field,” revealed Mason, who plays club football with the Kincumber Colts.

“After a big preparation it was nice to join forces with new players and strike up a winning combination in a different format of the game,” he added.

The Raiders squad comprised top juniors from club teams in the Central Coast, Sydney and

Queensland competitions.

Kelman was in blockbusting form and created havoc alongside fellow prop and NSW Schoolboys representative team-mate Arthur Hopoate.

Both youngsters carved up rival defences and used their strength, footwork and mobility to provide go-forward and set up numerous tries during the established Central Coast event.

The three day tournament attracted some of the finest juniors from across NSW and Queensland with power, speed and stamina proving the recipe for success.

Mason made a huge impact with his bullocking charges, clever passing and no-nonsense defence, a feature as the rampant Raiders outclassed their opponents in the nine-aside format.

The talented Kelman is part of the rugby league academy at Central Coast Sports College.

Alongside elder brother Axel, a former leading Nelson Bay Rugby junior, he is entrenched in the Central Coast Roosters Development program, and targeting the NSWRL Harold Matthews Cup competition in the near future.

SUDOKU

$1,300,000 EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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Separate kitchen and dining room with cathedral ceilings.

5 bedroom home with sparkling in ground pool.

Formal entrance opening onto grand staircase.

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Separate kitchen and dining room with cathedral ceilings.

5 bedroom home with sparkling in ground pool.

Formal entrance opening onto grand staircase.

• Step down lounge & formal dining area.

Separate kitchen and dining room with cathedral ceilings.

5 bedroom home with sparkling in ground pool.

Formal entrance opening onto grand staircase.

Step down lounge & formal dining area.

Separate kitchen and dining room with cathedral ceilings.

Holiday by the Bay

Positions Vacant

Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd is the leader in Horticultural manufacture and distribution on the East Coast of Australia. Celebrating over 50 years of leading the industry ANL remains an Australian family owned and operated business.

We are currently seeking energetic Administration / Customer Service Officer, for our Horticultural Products manufacturing facility at Tea Gardens.

Position requirements:

* At least six months customer service experience (preferred but not essential)

* Must have current valid driver’s license (essential)

* Enthusiastic, hard-working attitude and commitment to providing exceptional customer service

* A focus on ensuring our high safety standards are met

* Computer literacy skills – Microsoft Office and familiarity with operating weighbridge and POS software (desirable but not essential) on the job training can be provided

* Understanding of landscaping materials (desirable)

* Comfortable working alone and following set instructions

* Availability to work flexible hours including early mornings and weekends

* Availability to work weekends (essential)

The successful applicants will have great customer service skills, a high level of professionalism, be well presented, proactive and selfmotivated and focused on providing maximum customer satisfaction.

Duties will include but not limited to the following:

Serving customers in our sales office, completing sales, operating a till and handling cash

Aiding and giving information to customers regarding product selection and delivery options

Operating weighbridge software and communicating information to the group

Attending phone and enquiries.

If this sounds like you, please email your CV to careers@anlscape.com.au

Only people with the right to work in Australia need apply. Recruiters need not apply.

Public Notices

Notice of Shoal Bay Tennis Club AGM

Saturday 21st Feb 2026 1pm at our Clubhouse. All members welcome. Any proposals to be raised at the meeting or proxy votes, please email shoalbaytennis@gmail.com

Emails need to be received 7 days prior to the AGM.

DECEASED

clearance

Sat 31st Jan, 8am - 4pm 134 Limeburners Creek Road, Limeburners Creek 2324

Wanted to Buy

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WINDSURFING board F2 AXXIS. 85 liters, No dings. $60. 0419 932 992

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

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DOG PARK

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Studies have proven that dog owners have lower stress levels and an easier time making friends. However, those researchers haven’t met Dog Park’s Roland (Leon Ford). In the grip of a mid-life crisis, the pessimistic Roland recently became solely responsible for his daughter Mia (Florence Gladwin) and family dog Beattie while his wife works overseas, but isn’t particularly attentive to either. One day, a visit to the local park introduces Roland to eternal optimist Samantha (Celia Pacquola, pictured with Ford) and the “Dog Park Divas”, a close-knit group of friends eager to adopt him – whether he likes it or not.

FRIDAY, January 30

MONDAY

MILLIONAIRE HOT SEAT

TEN, 7pm

After 15 years on air, is a quiz show most Australians know like the back of their own hands. But 10’s fresh take on the format hosted by national treasure Rebecca Gibney (pictured) is changing the game.

The Gold Logie winner is the first female to host Hot Seat high-risk, high-reward edition where just one wrong move can mean walking home empty-handed – and brings her bubbly personality, plenty of positivity and compassion to the role.

“I know I have big shoes to fill,” confesses Gibney.

“But I said when I turned 60 I wasn’t going to let fear stop me from trying new things – so here we go!” Six clever contestants try to win $1 million in Monday’s premiere.

TUESDAY

NCIS

TEN, 9pm

Keeping viewers guessing by following an enigmatic special agent who plays his or her cards close to their chest is rule no.1 in the playbook. It allows the show’s writers to keep fans hooked by bread-crumbing the audience with tantalising reveals, and it’s also much easier than writing a back story that could cause complicated plot holes down the line. After four years at the helm of the team, it’s finally time we learn a little more about Alden Parker (Gary Cole, pictured). After his father was murdered in season 22’s finale, Parker is more determined than ever to track down the elusive Carla Marino (Rebecca De Mornay), even if it means ignoring the orders of Director Vance (Rocky Carroll) to carry out his personal vendetta.

Gleeson.

9.35 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program. 10.05 A Life In Ten Pictures: Alexander McQueen. (PGa, R) 10.55 ABC Late News.

11.15 Smother. (Mal, R)

1.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Great House Revival. (PG)

9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R)

10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Sisi. (Ma, R) 11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+ans, R) 1.30 Silent Road. (Madsv, R)

3.30 Craig & Bruno’s Great British Road Trips. (PG, R)

4.00 Barkley Manor. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Adam Dovile fixes wobbly shelves.

8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017, MA15+sv, R) After the Kingsmen are attacked by a mysterious enemy, Eggsy and Merlin are the sole survivors. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong.

11.30 Doc. (Mav, R)

12.30 MOVIE: A Sister’s Grudge. (2021, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13. Men’s semi-finals.

11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R) An infection threatens Marcel’s transplant.

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

1.00 Next Stop. (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 GolfBarons. (PG, R)

7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 TKO: Total Knock Out. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 The Garden Hustle. 9.00 The Nanny. 9.30 The Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 11.00 LEGO Masters. 2pm The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Speed 2: Cruise Control. (1997, M)

7.05 Finding You. (2020, PG) 9.20

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

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

7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (R) A couple struggle to sell their property. 8.40 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple are at a crossroads with their little house in the Sutherland Shire of NSW. 9.50 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrities include Pamela Anderson. 11.00 10’s Late News.

6.00

SATURDAY, January 31

6.00 Back Roads: Local Heroes Special. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

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

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa)

A solo delivery puts Sister Julienne’s skills to the test.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Return, PGav) When a group of rival mudlarkers excavate the Holly Brook river, a dark and deadly past resurfaces.

10.00 The Jetty. (Final, MA15+a, R) Ember tries to uncover the truth about Amy. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.25 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Jnr. 8.45 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.05 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Abbott Elementary. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Women On The Frontline. (PG)

8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Contrasting Bernina Railway. (R) Looks at the Bernina route.

9.40 The Secret DNA Of Us: Geelong. (Ma, R) The team heads to Geelong.

10.45 Lord Lucan. (Mav, R)

11.45 House Of Promises. (Msv, R)

3.15 Barkley Manor. (PG, R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 MOVIE: The Super Mario Bros. Movie. (2023, PGv) Two plumbers are sent to a magical kingdom. Chris Pratt.

9.00 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021, MA15+v, R) Members of a spy agency find themselves pitted against an evil cabal bent on starting a war. Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton.

11.40 Air Crash Investigations: Dream Flight Disaster. (PGa, R)

12.40 MOVIE: Betrayed Within. (2022, Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. Women’s final.

12.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv, R)

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

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)

Love It Or List It Australia. A couple are at a crossroads about their home. 8.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives. 9.30 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R)

6am The

Bookshop. (2017, PG) 8.10 The Movie Show. 8.45 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.25 Nobody Has To Know. (2021, M) 12.15pm Tudawali. (1987, M) 1.55 Discovering Film. 2.55 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 4.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.30 The Gunman. (2015) 10.40 My Sole Desire. (2022, MA15+, French) 12.50am Late Programs.

SUNDAY, February 1

6.00 Grand Designs Transformations: Turkish Queenslander And Newstead Bath House. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (Return, PG)

8.30 Dog Park. (Premiere, Ml) A man finds himself adopted by a pack of dog-tragics.

9.00 This England. (Premiere, Ml) Looks at Britain during Covid.

10.05 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)

11.05 Midsomer Murders. (PGav, R)

12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.00 Dream Gardens. (PG, R)

4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 7.50 MOVIE: Yogi Bear. (2010, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Abbott Elementary. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Lost Cities Of Genghis Khan. (Premiere)

9.20 Angkor: Hidden Jungle Empire.

10.20 Zelenskyy: Citizens At War. (PGalv, R)

11.15 A Year From Space. (PGavw, R)

12.30 Building The Impossible. (PGa, R)

1.25 The Deadly Bermuda Triangle. (PGa, R)

2.15 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)

3.20 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

PBS International Affairs Show. 5.55 Icons Unearthed: The Lord Of The Rings. 6.50 Abandoned Engineering. 8.40 The Disappearance Of Jimmy Hoffa. 9.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. 12.30am Django. 2.30 NHK World News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.

(32)

6am I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 8.05 The Movie Show. 8.40 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 10.15 The Movie Show. 10.50 Juniper. (2021, M) 12.40pm The Space Between The Lines. (2019, M, German) 2.55 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 4.35 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 6.40 The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 8.30 A Fistful Of Dollars. (1964, MA15+) 10.25 The Secrets We Keep. (2020, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)

7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R) A celebration of John Farnham.

9.30 Queen: In Their Own Words. (Mal, R) The story of rock band Queen.

10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 Temple. (Malv)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

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

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Surfing Australia. 9.30 Big Rigs Of Oz. 10.00 Seinfeld. 10.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Bournemouth v Liverpool. 12.30pm Ice Hockey. NHL. Chicago Blackhawks v Columbus Blue Jackets. 3.10 Seinfeld. 3.40 Young Sheldon. 4.10 LEGO Masters. 5.30 MOVIE: Goosebumps. (2015, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PG) 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Featuring highlights, interviews and opinions.

7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. Men’s final. From Melbourne Park. 12.00 The First 48: Point Of No Return. (Ma, R) Two friends are found executed in a car. 1.00 Next Stop. A look at holiday destinations. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 8.55 Big Rigs Of Oz. 9.25 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Mid-Ohio. H’lights. 10.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Manchester United. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Sydney v Geelong Venom. 2.30 Snackmasters. 4.00 LEGO Masters. 5.15 MOVIE: Show Dogs. (2018, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: Cool Runnings. (1993) 9.00 MOVIE: I, Tonya. (2018, MA15+) 11.30 Late Programs.

MONDAY, February 2

6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05

SBS World News. 7.35 Building The World’s Greatest Castle.

8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Return)

Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Return)

SBS World News Late.

Like Water For Chocolate. (MA15+v)

11.25 Vigil. (Mav, R)

2.45 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Return, PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.15 9-1-1. (Ma) Athena and Hen face increasing danger in space.

10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av)

11.15 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie

Show. 6.35 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 8.35

The Efficiency Expert. (1991, PG) 10.25 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.30pm Swan Song. (2021, M) 2.30 I Kill Giants. (2018, PG) 4.30 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.50 Here I Am. (2011, M) 9.30 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) Midnight Late Programs.

TUESDAY, February 3

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGals, R)

8.30 MOVIE: From Roger Moore With Love. (2024)

10.10 Rock Legends. (R)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads)

12.05 DNA. (Mav, R)

1.45 Australia In Colour. (PGa, R)

3.40 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.15 Doc. (Mav) A patient forces Amy to confront the realities of medical tourism. TJ helps a veteran with his prosthetic. Joan drops a bombshell.

11.15 St. Denis Medical. (Ms) Joyce brings in a body scanner.

12.15 MOVIE: Broken Ties. (2023, Mav, R) Brianna Cohen.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

SBS

6am The Movie Show. 7.00 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 9.30 Another Country. (2015, PG) 10.55 Here I Am. (2011, M) 12.35pm Welcome Back, Mr. President. (2019, M, Italian) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 5.25 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 7.20 Out Of Season. (1975, M) 9.30 The Prestige. (2006, M) 11.55 Trespass Against Us. (2016, MA15+) 1.45am Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls)

9.30 Forging Champions. (PGl) A look at Canberra’s Australian Institute of Sport. 11.00 9News Late.

11.30 Sight Unseen. (Mv)

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Hello SA. (PG)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

A

6.00

WEDNESDAY, February 4

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 South America With Simon Reeve. (Ml, R) 3.00 Living Black: 50 Years. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Giant Mammoths. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00

Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Saving Yellowstone. (Premiere) 8.25 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (PGa, R) 9.20 Trespasses. (Premiere, Mlsv) 10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Face To Face. (Ma, R)

11.55 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R)

1.40 Golden Boy. (Mlns, R)

2.30 Australia In Colour. (Md, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

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

VICELAND (31)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Steven Universe. 9.00 Adventure Time. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.45 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.20 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 The 1% Club UK: Rollover. (PGal)

8.30 Highway Patrol. (Return, PG)

9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (Premiere, MA15+av)

10.15 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa)

11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)

12.35 The Last Weekend. (Premiere, Mav)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

The Food That Built The World. Noon

12.30 Stone Cold Takes On America. 1.20 Mastermind Australia. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (Return) 9.20 MOVIE: Paint. (2023, M) 11.10 MOVIE: The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 2am Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.15 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 8.10 Brief Encounter. (1974, PG) 10.05 The Prestige. (2006, M) 12.25pm Discovering Film. 1.25 Another Country. (2015, PG) 2.50 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 5.20 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 7.30 Limitless. (2011, M) 9.30 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 11.45 Patrick. (2019, MA15+, French) 1.35am Late Programs.

THURSDAY, February 5

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (R) 11.00

(PGv, R) 11.30 QI. (Ms, R) 12.00

Bergerac. (Mv, R) 1.45

Parliament. 3.00 Would I

Ag. (R)

(PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Let The Games Begin. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026.

10.45 9News Late.

11.15 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv, R)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Skippy. (R) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 The Secret Life

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw, R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Sabre-Toothed Tiger. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG)

8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG)

9.20 In Flight. (Madl)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Before We Die. (Mal, R)

11.40 This Town. (MA15+dl, R)

2.00 Because We Have Each Other. (Mal, R)

3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Food That Built The World. 11.45 WorldWatch. 12.15pm Mastermind Australia. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Snatch. (2000, MA15+) 10.30 The UnXplained. 11.20 Homicide. 1.10am Threesome. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 8.15 Hajjan. (2023, PG, Arabic) 10.35 The Fourth Protocol. (1987, M) 12.45pm Out Of Season. (1975, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Discovering Film. 4.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.55 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 7.30 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 9.40 The Quiet American. (2002, MA15+) 11.35 The Good German. (2006, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.

6am Home In WA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Australian Idol. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Escape To The Country. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009, PGls, R) An editor gets engaged to her assistant to get a green card so she can continue working in the US. Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen.

10.50 To Be Advised.

12.35 Dare Me. (Premiere, MA15+asv) The arrival of a new coach threatens the tight bond between two cheerleaders.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

7TWO (62) 7TWO (62)

7MATE (64) 7MATE (64)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Australia’s most controversial social experiment continues with plenty of love and drama.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Coverage includes curling, South Korea v Italy and ice hockey. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Overnight.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

By Chris KARAS