introduced composting, reusable wraps for every student, eye-catching bin signage, and organic waste caddies in all classrooms.
Crossmaglen Public School ran a Lunchbox Champions Challenge, upcycled old tyres into drums, gifted a beeswax wrap to each family and produced music and media to share their message.
According to both schools, these projects have diverted waste from landfill, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and built waste literacy and environmental leadership skills in students and the community.
“The kids are really invested in the program because it feels like it’s something
bigger than their school,” said Boambee teacher Cheree Watt.
“This program was really good, and it helped our school to learn about how to reduce waste,” a participating student said.
“It was so much fun, and it helps the environment,” added another.
OzGREEN Co-CEO Kathleen Hannah said that equipping young people to lead wastereduction projects creates lasting changemakers who can help build a zerowaste future.
q Students of Crossmaglen Public School are finding new ways to protect the environment.
OzGREEN has created two videos featuring students from both schools, capturing their journey in waste.
“Our hope is that people can draw inspiration from these videos and… rethink their own waste habits,” Ms Hannah said.
The videos can be found on OzGreen’s website by searching the name of each school.
Council to prepare vegetation plan for foreshores
CITY of Coffs Harbour will prepare a Vegetation Management Plan for the Jetty Foreshores precinct to inform all future revegetation works to be funded by Council’s Environmental Levy Reserve in 2025/26.
The decision was made at Council’s 28 August meeting, during a motion which outlined the successful applicants of Environmental Levy Grants Program funding.
As the motion was brought before councillors, Mayor Nikki Williams added an additional point, seeking to develop a Council plan for vegetation management at the Jetty Foreshores.
“I think it is really important, while Jetty Dunecare does a fantastic job… I’d like to see Council set out a vegetation management plan that is adopted by all of Council.
“It is important that we as a City are setting what happens down there, so Jetty Dunecare knows exactly where we are up to and what we want to do.”
After a question from Cr Jonathan Cassell, Council Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick stated he believed the plan would cost no more than $50,000 to create.
Mayor Williams said Council staff had been consulted on the issue, with Mr Beswick stating that the current plan of management for the Jetty Foreshores does not have a vegetation management plan associated with it.
Mr Beswick said the plan would cover the Crown Land areas that Council controls and that Jetty Dunecare’s knowledge and expertise would be utilised in its
development.
Councillor Tony Judge spoke against the motion, questioning why councillors had not been briefed on the motion before the council meeting.
“Where have we had a chance to have a briefing to consider this properly?
“We have had literally minutes to consider spending $50k of public money.”
Cr Paul Amos also spoke against the motion, echoing Cr Judge’s concerns about the lack of due process.
The motion passed five votes to four, with councillors Williams, Cecato, Fowler, Oxford and Saro voting for and councillors Amos, Cassell, Judge and Sechi voting against.
The City of Coffs Harbour received 16 submissions for the 2025/26 Environmental Levy Grants Program, with 11 submissions recommended by the Environmental Levy Grants Program Panel to receive funding of $411,177 in total.
q The ‘waste-busters’ of Boambee Public School.
CRIME SPREE
FROM Page 1
nearby unlocked vehicle.
The vehicle was later recovered after it crashed into a tree on Lyons Road at Sawtell a short time later.
No injuries were reported.
About 2.30am, a vehicle was allegedly stolen from a home in Sawtell after a key was obtained from an unlocked home.
Coffs/Clarence
Police were notified and attempted to stop the vehicle on Hogbin Drive, Coffs Harbour.
When the driver allegedly failed to stop as directed, a pursuit was initiated.
The pursuit continued to Bonville where tyre spikes were deployed, and the vehicle came to a stop.
Two passengers - both
aged 14 - were arrested and taken to Coffs harbour Police Station, while the driver allegedly fled into bushland.
Both were charged with “aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence”, and “be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner”.
They were refused bail to appear before a children's court on Tuesday 26 August where they were granted strict conditional
bail to appear before a children's court on Monday 8 September 2025.
Following inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a home in Coffs Harbour on Friday 29 August 2025.
During the search, police allegedly located and seized several items of interest.
Following further inquiries, a 15-year-old boy was arrested at Coffs Harbor Police Station
about 11am on Monday 1 September.
He was charged with 16 offences:
• Armed with intent commit indictable offence (four counts)
• Face blackened/ disguised with intent commit indictable offence (four counts)
• Take and drive conveyance without consent of owner (two counts)
• Never licensed person drive vehicle on road (two counts)
Disabled tenant in eviction struggle
By Leigh WATSON
WHEN the occupants of two Coffs Harbour unit blocks were given 30 days’ notice to vacate, most began the frantic search for new homes.
But for one long-term tenant, leaving is not only stressful, it may be impossible.
The woman, who asked not to be named, has lived in her ground-floor unit for 20 years.
She uses a wheelchair, relies on life support, and was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“This is my home,” she said. “My son was in 5th class when we moved here and now he’s a grown man.”
• Negligent driving (no death or grievous bodily harm)
• Aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence
• Police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, and
• Larceny. He was refused bail to appear before a children's court on Tuesday 2 September 2025.
She is now competing against dozens of applicants at each inspection, searching for somewhere wheelchair accessible and affordable.
“The agents have told me about a couple of places but because of my disability none were suited.
“I can’t expect my son to carry me upstairs.
“The whole application process has been very stressful.
a week, which is low by Coffs Harbour standards.
Even if she could afford a higher amount however, accessible properties are rare and hard to secure at short notice.
She feels her son is deeply worried about where they will end up.
Emma McGuire, from the Mid Coast Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service (MCTAAS), said many tenants don’t realise that a termination notice does not automatically end their lease.
voluntarily, only the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) can make an order to end a tenancy and require a property to be returned to the landlord.
“A termination notice is just the first step in the process.
“If the matter proceeds to the Tribunal, tenants are sometimes granted extra time - weeks or even months - depending on the circumstances.”
moving into safe, suitable accommodation or having nowhere to go.”
MCTAAS, a free service funded by NSW Fair Trading, provides advice, advocacy and representation for tenants across the Mid North Coast.
Tenants who receive a termination notice can call (02) 6583 9866 or visit tenants.org.au.
“I feel like I’m being treated a bit poorly.
“We were told that even if we moved before the 30 days were up, we’d still have to pay the rent up to that time.”
Over two decades, she has adapted the space for her needs, including paying $500 herself to install a special tap.
Her current rent is $290
“No tenant who receives any type of termination notice is required to leave on the day set out in the notice,” Ms McGuire said.
She explained that if tenants do not leave
Ms McGuire said landlords are within their rights to sell, but she urged compassion in the face of Coffs Harbour’s 1.1 percent vacancy rate, and growing affordability pressures.
“Extra time can make the difference between a tenant
q The properties on San Francisco Ave are now emptying as tenants start moving out.
Lost opportunity to solve homelessness
By Leigh WATSON
CONSULTATION for City
of Coffs Harbour’s draft homelessness strategy has now closed but many community organisations, housing advocates, and even some Councillors, say the document lacks the teeth needed to deliver real change.
Shelter NSW CEO John Engeler, along with Principal Planner Stacey Miers, reviewed the draft and described it as a step in the right direction but one that relies too heavily on generic statements rather than action.
“Council has acknowledged the problem, but without concrete steps, such as how to work with Homes NSW to deliver more homes for those most in need, there’s a risk this strategy won’t go beyond good intentions,” Mr Engeler said.
He noted the absence of consultation with Indigenous stakeholders, calling it a serious gap given the overrepresentation of First Nations people among those experiencing homelessness.
Mr Engeler believes Coffs
Harbour has the potential to be a demonstration model for tackling homelessness across regional NSW.
“If you can’t get it right in Coffs Harbour, you can’t get it right anywhere in the state,” he said.
“This is a city with proven ability to innovate; it moved from bananas to berries, and has long shown expertise in providing tourist accommodation.
“As such, Coffs should be leading the way in housing solutions, but at the moment, they are seriously falling behind.”
While homelessness is often viewed as the responsibility of state and federal governments, Mr Engeler says local councils play a critical role.
“Councils are on the ground. They see the impacts daily and are well-placed to broker partnerships.
“The old approach of just lobbying higher levels of government for money doesn’t work on its own.
“What does work is intelligent, active, local-led collaboration between council, state and
federal agencies, private investors, and community organisations.”
According to Shelter NSW, the draft strategy could be strengthened with several key measures, including:
- investigating available federal and state funding streams
- considering inclusionary zoning, where new developments set aside a portion for affordable housing.
- tightening regulations around short-term holiday letting such as AirBnB
- proactively building partnerships with local community groups and businesses
- ensuring Council has the resources, and potentially philanthropic backing, to drive these initiatives.
Mr Engeler also highlighted models that would meet some of the specific issues impacting homelessness in the area.
One of these is the Common Ground, which is permanent, supportive housing for people experiencing chronic homelessness.
q Without a focus on an active housingfirst response in the region, advocates say makeshift dwellings will only increase.
“This model has had huge success in major cities such as Sydney but Coffs Harbour could become the first regional city in NSW to adopt it and be trailblazers for other regional areas.
“Another example is the Foyer model, which provides transitional housing for young people leaving out-ofhome care.
“This would also be a good model for Coffs Harbour where there are many young people who need to move out
of care once they reach 18.
“Having a stable place to live would give them stability to finish education or find work.”
Shelter NSW stresses the importance of a “Housing First” approach, which recognises that stable housing is the foundation for tackling other issues such as health, employment, or substance use.
“The reality is that housing and homelessness are inseparable; you can’t
solve one without addressing the other.”
Mr Engeler also urged City of Coffs Harbour to align its work with the newly released NSW Homelessness Strategy 2025-2035.
“The state strategy gives a clear framework.
“Coffs Harbour doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel, but it does need to show how local initi vatives can dovetail with it.
“That’s how we get traction.”
Consultation continues on lifeguards’ futures
By Andrew VIVIAN
DEBATE about the delivery of lifeguard services in Coffs Harbour continued at Council’s 28 August meeting.
As previously reported in News Of The Area, City of Coffs Harbour Council has butted heads with the United Services Union (USU) in recent weeks over plans to outsource beach lifeguard services to the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS), a subsidiary of Surf Life Saving NSW.
Beach lifeguard services in the Coffs Harbour local government area are currently offered by Council lifeguards.
The City and the USU attended Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) hearings on the matter last month.
At the hearing on 14 August, the IRC ruled that ongoing consultation on the issue was to continue between key stakeholders.
At Council’s 28 August meeting, Councillor Tony
Judge put forward a motion that the City “directly commits to retaining lifeguards as employees of Council”, additionally calling for Council to note media reports and the extent of community concern on the issue.
In the public forum before the meeting, Steven Pearce and Brent Manieri from Surf Life Saving NSW spoke against Cr Judge’s motion.
Mr Pearce said similar negotiations involving the ALS had not resulted in such levels of controversy.
“If there was the ability to have been able to engage in the conversation, I don’t believe the angst would have been there,” he said.
Mr Manieri challenged what he described as misinformation in the media concerning safety and working conditions for ALS lifeguards.
When pressed by Cr Judge about penalty rates, he said some would be better than Council’s while others
may not be.
In response to a question from Cr Julie Sechi about service hours, Mr Manieri said it depended on each Council’s budget.
He also highlighted the quality of training delivered by ALS and Surf Life Saving NSW, in response to a question from Mayor Nikki Williams.
Darryn Quigley from Solitary Island Surf School spoke in favour of Cr Judge’s motion, offering endorsement of current Council lifeguards and publicly thanking them for their service.
Greg Vigors, a long-term member at Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club, also spoke in favour of the motion.
He expressed concerns that outsourcing could lead to increased costs or a decline in service quality, and stressed that Council lifeguards were valued members of the local community.
Cr Judge’s motion was lost five votes to four, with
councillors Amos, Cassell, Judge and Sechi voting for and councillors Williams, Cecato, Fowler, Oxford and Saro voting against.
Mayor Nikki Williams then moved an alternative motion, calling for Council consultation with the lifeguard team and their representatives to continue.
The motion stated that “any alternative proposals to address current service issues and challenges” should be considered, and requested the engagement of an independent consultant to meet with key stakeholder groups including volunteer surf lifesaving clubs, board rider clubs and surf schools.
The final point of the motion noted that the Acting General Manager should give “due consideration to all matters raised from the consultation and engagement” before any final decision is made.
The motion was carried six votes to three.
The United Services Union (USU) has been vocal in its support of Council lifeguards throughout the process.
“They tried to muzzle us for exposing their backdoor deal to privatise lifesaving jobs,” USU official Luke
Hutchinson said of the Council.
“Privatising lifesaving services means fewer trained professionals, lower standards, and a community left vulnerable.”
Both the Council and the ALS have stated that their positions have been portrayed unfairly by the USU and in the media.
According to a press release from SLSNSW, the ALS has committed that Coffs Harbour lifeguard staff would be “better off overall” under a service delivered by ALS, meaning their pay and conditions will be above what they are currently engaged under.
The ALS has also committed to take on any current staff and recognise leave and other liabilities if it takes over the service delivery.
The ALS said it welcomes
the opportunity to engage with the consultation process as agreed at the Council meeting.
In a statement released after the meeting, City of Coffs Harbour Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said, “It’s important to realise that no final decision has been made on a preferred operational model.
“The ongoing consultation process will allow for the exploration of all ideas to improve the service and make it sustainable and resilient to ensure public safety and staff welfare are the priority.”
Despite ongoing consultation, Cr Tony Judge believes the community sentiment on the issue is “very clear”.
“As a community representative, I cannot support outsourcing of the lifeguard service when the community and our lifeguards are so strongly opposed to it.
continue to consult over the future of its lifeguard service. Photo: CHCC.
“I think Councillors need to listen to their community.
“They want lifeguards employed by Council.”
q Council will
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Yazidis recognised in 2026 Census
By Andrea FERRARI
YAZIDI community members in Coffs Harbour, who have been petitioning the government for official recognition of their language, religion and ethnicity in the 2026 Australian Census, have received a mixed response.
Sami Sheebo, principal petitioner, said the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has decided not to include Yazidi as a language category, but Kurmanji (Northern Kurdish) - a language spoken by many Yazidis - is being recognised as a standalone language in the Australian Standard Classification of Languages (ASCL).
In addition, Yazidi ancestry is recognised in the Australian Standard Classification of
Cultural and Ethnic Groups (ASCCEG), and Yazidism is recognised as a distinct religion in the Australian Standard Classification of Religious Groups (ASCRG).
Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury Dr Andrew Leigh, further advised that the ABS is committed to supporting Yazidi participation in the 2026 Census and ensuring the community’s visibility in national statistics.
The Yazidi community in Coffs Harbour feels very encouraged by this recognition in the 2026 Census, Mr Sheebo said.
“This recognition is a major step forward in acknowledging the Yazidi community’s identity and presence in Australia.
“Although our request for recognition of
the Yazidi language was not accepted, this outcome still strengthens our cultural and religious visibility and helps ensure our needs are better understood in Australia.”
Recovery grants to be processed quicker
State Government last week announced it would immediately double the number of staff members working on the processing of Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) Recovery Grants for primary producers impacted by the May floods.
Since June, the RAA has received almost 2,000 applications and has approved more than $23 million in payments, however the Government admits the initial rollout faced “some delays” due to the large number of applications lodged.
According to the Government’s timeline, by last Friday all those who had previously applied should have either had their claim
assessed or received a direct update on the status of their application.
The Government says the current time for processing an application has been reduced to 25 business days, with an aim to reduce this to 20 days as soon as possible.
The additional staff will work directly on assessments, ensuring straightforward applications are fast-tracked, and more complex cases have the extra resources to speed up the appropriate review.
“Our message to primary producers is clear, we have implemented improvements to processing applications but there is more work to do, and I understand their concerns regarding the waiting time for payments,” Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said.
“That’s why we are doubling the number of people on the job, to clear the backlog and get more payments out the door.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, whose Mid North Coast electorate was smashed by the record-breaking May floods, welcomed the announcement but slammed ongoing delays to the recovery process.
“It is good to see recognition of the pressure our farmers and small businesses have been under, and this investment should mean support is rolled out more quickly to the people who need it most,” he said.
“But why has it taken 100 days and relentless pressure for them to act?
“So far, just 23 percent of applications have been approved. That’s not support, that’s red tape.”
Mr Kemp, who is based in Kempsey, said farmers and small business owners are being forced to “jump through endless hoops”
due to issues with the application process system.
“[They are] reapplying multiple times, resending the same documents four or five times, only to have them bounce back again.
“Instead of getting help, they’ve been caught in a bureaucratic merry-go-round that has delivered nothing but stress and left people feeling abandoned.”
The State Government claims it has improved the application experience in the past month, making it easier to upload documents and images, especially larger sized files.
“Another improvement has been to provide an easy-to-use guide that contains ‘application tips’ to support primary producers through the application process,” the government said in a statement.
NSW Farmers Oyster Committee Chair Brandon Armstrong said disaster assistance had been far too long coming for many farming families in the Hunter and on the Mid North Coast.
“Be it dairy and beef farmers, or oyster growers, or anyone in between, the impacts of successive flood and storm events in NSW have been no less than catastrophic, and there’s a long road to recovery still ahead,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Our farming families have waited long enough, and it’s time disaster assistance gets to where it’s needed, so farmers can get back on their feet.
“Fodder, freight, cleanup and a long list of other costs are bearing down heavily on the farming families who have been affected by these events, and the process to apply for disaster assistance has been complex, slow and difficult for many.”
To apply for assistance: www.raa.nsw. gov.au.
q Member for Oxley Michael Kemp discusses flood recovery with Premier Chris Minns and NSW Nationals leader Dugald Saunders in May. Photo: Michael Kemp FB.
q Coffs Harbour Yazidi community leader, Sami Sheebo.
Members to vote on bank merger
THE Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has given the green light to a proposed merger between Summerland Bank and Regional Australia Bank.
Regional Australia Bank currently operates 39 bank branches across the New England, North West, Central West, Riverina, Mid North Coast and Hunter regions of NSW, whilst Summerland operates 10 branches across the NSW Northern Rivers and South East Queensland.
The two banks first announced their intent to merge in October 2024.
With APRA’s approval now in hand, members will now have the opportunity to vote on the proposal.
David Heine, CEO of Regional Australia Bank, said the merger enables the two banks to invest in better infrastructure, products and services for customers, while keeping all branches open and retaining all staff.
If the merger goes ahead, the combined bank will manage over $5 billion in assets and serve over 130,000 members across regional NSW.
“This merger confirms
our intent to empower all regional Australians through our customer-owned banking services,” Mr Heine said.
“We are committed to investing back into our regions, responsibly and sustainably and remain unwavering in our goal.”
Summerland Bank CEO John Williams said the merger will help deliver greater benefits to members and local communities.
“This merger means we can do more for our members and communities - investing in better
infrastructure, security, and services.”
Both banks will now take the proposal to their members for a vote.
If endorsed by the banks’ members, the merger will take effect from 1 July 2026.
Regional Australia Bank will hold its AGM on 20 November, while Summerland Bank’s AGM is on 19 November.
If members are unable to attend, they can vote by appointing a representative or via a proxy form which must be lodged 48 hours prior to the AGM.
Coramba’s ‘Bush Dance for the Forests’ a success
By Andrew VIVIAN
CORAMBA Hall was packed to the rafters on Saturday
night as Friends of Mount Coramba hosted the sold-out “Bush Dance for the Forests”.
Around 100 people
enjoyed the joyful and powerful community event to raise awareness and funds to protect the forests of Mount
Icon turns purple for overdose awareness
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Big Banana glowed purple on Sunday 31 August as a sign of awareness, remembrance and hope on International Overdose Awareness Day.
More than 2000 Australians lose their lives each year to unintentional overdose.
This is more than the number of people killed in road accidents each year.
Overdose isn’t about one drug or one group of people; an unintended overdose can happen to anyone.
It is an often overlooked
issue and carries with it a stigma.
Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) Alcohol and Other Drugs Service Clinical Director Dr Tony Gill, said instances of overdose have dramatically increased over the last 20 years.
“The increased use of prescription medications has been a significant contributing factor.
“People may accidentally take the wrong dose, combine medications in dangerous ways, or take them at the wrong time.
“These situations are
often unintentional, and they can happen to people from all walks of life.”
Dr Gill said International Overdose Awareness Day was an opportunity to acknowledge loss and raise awareness, so more people understand what an overdose looks like and how to help.
“By reducing stigma, we can empower families, friends and community members to seek support and access lifesaving tools.”
As part of the campaign, MNCLHD hosted a harm reduction workshop in Kempsey for local service providers and health workers,
Supporters from across the Coffs Coast joined locals in traditional bush dancing, live local music and calls to save local native forests.
Revellers danced to the rhythms of Carnaval Republic and the music of local duo
Chris Aronsten and Mark Feeney and the Allsorts bush band
Nikki Read, who helped bring the event to life, said it was incredible to see so many people come together.
“Not just to dance, but to stand up for what really matters.
“We’re here to protect something that cannot protect itself.”
The Mount Coramba forests represent critical
habitat for the Mid North koala population, and locals are demanding that NSW Labor deliver on its election promise to protect koalas in the wild.
“The koala is now endangered in NSW due to widespread habitat destruction,” Ms Read said.
Peter Elzer, known as KoaLaMan, has just walked to Sydney to raise awareness.
He said he was overjoyed by the strength of the community.
“The forest is alive, and so are we in our fight to save it.”
“This event proved we are building momentum and people are excited for the long-awaited announcement of the Great Koala National Park (GKNP).”
Councillor Jonathan Cassell said, “Events like this show that saving our forests is bringing people together across political divides.
“It’s about community, country, and common sense.
“The bush dance was driven by good, honest people who are not motivated by greed but by a deep love for our forests.
“It was a heartfelt celebration of the human spirit, standing firm against exploitation and destruction.”
Cr Cassell said the night was more than a fundraiser - it was a celebration of resilience, unity, and an urgent call to action to protect what remains.
The funds raised will go to the campaign to save Mt Coramba and to support the people who were fined $1400 for a forest walk-on in June.
covering drug and alcohol use trends, how to recognise and prevent overdose, the impact of stigma, and practical harm reduction strategies.
Community members can also access naloxone, a medicine that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose and save lives.
It is available as a nasal spray or as an intramuscular injection and is free under the Australian Government’s Take Home Naloxone program through community pharmacies and directly from trained MNCLHD Drug and Alcohol staff.
Naloxone is also available for home delivery via NUAA’s Take-Home Naloxone postal pilot service. The medicine is for people at risk of witnessing or experiencing an opioid overdose.
Coramba.
q The Big Banana glows purple.
q Regional Australia Bank has branches across the Mid North Coast.
q The dance hall was packed. Photo: Friends of Mt Coramba.
Words of Wisdom BURROW Dr Alan
Optometrist
When I was a student, we had a guest lecturer, Dr Robert Morrison, a renowned contact lens specialist from the USA who commented during the lecture that “it gave him great satisfaction driving home at night knowing that he had enhanced patients’ vision”.
One of the best things about providing a comprehensive optometric service is the privilege of being trusted to provide patients with clearer, more comfortable and efficient vision as well as in some cases preventing permanent loss of sight.
In my first year of practice I worked for Dr Derek Humphriss, a well-known optometrist in South Africa. I admired his expertise and was impressed by the way he was able to give advice on complex cases.
After being in practice for about six months, I began to become bored with some of the mundane repetitive tasks inherent in all occupations. I was surprised that having been in optometry for over 40 years, Dr Humphriss appeared to still be highly motivated and enjoying his profession. In one of our discussions, I asked him how he maintained his enthusiasm while after only six months I was starting to become disillusioned.
He told me he derived great satisfaction from solving patients’ problems and that the mundane tasks were simply a means to that end. He drew the parallel between a bricklayer who simply focused on laying individual bricks and another who saw the bigger picture of creating a beautiful building.
These words transformed my view of optometry which encouraged me to undertake further study, to solve more complex problems. Since then, optometry and optometric equipment have evolved not only providing superior optical solutions but also treating a wide range of eye diseases.
Although “much water has passed under the bridge since then”, I can still echo the words of Dr Morrison that “I get great satisfaction driving home at night knowing that I have been able to enhance patients’ vision”. In fact, patient satisfaction is the driving force underpinning our practice.
72 Albany Street
Coffs Harbour 2450
Phone: (02) 6652 7411
Scan the QR Code for Our Website alanburrow.com.au
Support in the aftermath of natural disaster
Overall, the flood recovery service is a flexible offer.
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre (KNC) is offering free help with community recovery in the aftermath of the May 2025 floods.
Running until October and funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, residents in Local Government Areas (LGAs) including Coffs Harbour and Bellingen Shire, can phone or drop in to the centre on Wednesdays between 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm3.30pm.
The wide-ranging services include practical help with paperwork, applying for assistance, financial counselling, working out where else to go for help, and emotional support.
Workers and counsellors are available for a chat, along with short-term counselling, or art therapy.
“Disaster in our areas does not happen in isolation,” centre manager and counsellor Shirley Kent said.
“For many of our service users, life is
already a struggle.
“Financial and psychological resources are stretched to the limits for many.
“When something catastrophic happens, this can mean that the capacity to cope on any of these levels is vastly reduced.
“More support in this space is a really important initiative for this community.”
Floods can especially cause increased financial vulnerability, due to extra costs and disrupted income.
Disaster payments, insurance claims, grants, and loan hardship programs can be hard to understand and fill out.
Financial counsellors can help people understand their options and advocate on their behalf if needed, reducing stress and the chance of long-term financial harm.
“Financial recovery is a key part of rebuilding after a disaster.
“When individuals and families get the support they need, entire communities bounce back stronger and more prepared for the future."
“For example, if we identify a need for social connectedness, we can organise a flood recovery group,” Counsellor and Art Therapist Ms Duke Albada said.
In August, KNC held a wellbeing workshop for workers and responders, which was facilitated by Headspace.
On RUOK Day, Thursday 11 September, a morning tea will be held at the Anglican Church in Kempsey.
Call KNC on 6562 8300 or Ali on 0419 029 171 for more information.
Grants grow Community Garden
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS Regional Community Gardens
Association members have welcomed Spring with the acceptance of an $18,000 NSW Government grant and receipt of a new rideon mower. It was purchased from the $6700 donated by the C.ex Club, through the Club Grants Program.
q Gurmesh Singh MP at the Coffs Regional Community Gardens with Stephen Dowdle, president/secretary
Helen Plummer, Tom Bedford, Claire Artuso, treasurer Alison Osmand and project manager Bob Moulds.
“This Community Building Partnership grant is for the extension of the existing concrete path within the gardens to provide all-weather disabled access to the toilets, which will be rebuilt,” Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said.
“This project is all about providing improved facilities for the many people who spend time at the Gardens, taking part in the many activities including workshops, open days, meetings and social events.
“The Coffs Regional Community Gardens prides itself on its focus on gardening, education, connection and community and I congratulate the volunteers for creating such a welcoming space in our city.”
In presenting the mower, C.ex Club representative Sheree Soderlund joined members to see the vehicle driven into the gardens by club member Bob Moulds.
“The Garden’s old ride-on mower, which had been donated by Geoff King Motors about 10 years ago, had broken down two months ago and it was not economical to have it repaired,” Mr Moulds said.
“The Garden has an area of over 3800
square metres with a large part of it being grassed, and with summer approaching, the mower will be well-utilised by the volunteers.”
Established in 2010, the Coffs Regional Community Garden located in Combine Street Coffs Harbour, is a thriving garden that has been tended by passionate and loyal members over the last 15 years.
“We have been very busy of late, improving access for the community and our members, and rebuilding all of our garden plots,” Coffs Regional Community Gardens Association President/Secretary Helen Plummer said.
“But as with all Community Gardens, the maintenance and updating of infrastructure needs to be done on a regular basis and is usually tended to by volunteers with knowledge shared and implemented where funds are available.
“We are incredibly grateful for these two wonderful grants, which have catapulted us into the future.
“The renovation of our toilet facilities, the extension of our disability walkways in the gardens and our ability to scoot around the gardens on a nice new ride-on mower, means the future of the gardens is assured.”
Community Kickstart grant up for grabs
By Andrea FERRARI
TOORMINA Gardens, owned by ISPT, has launched its Community Kickstart grant program.
The program aims to amplify the efforts of those who positively impact their community, by providing funding and support to sustain and expand their projects and services.
A grant of $10,000 will be awarded to one local organisation committed to creating positive change in Coffs Harbour.
Applications are open to all registered local groups and voluntary organisations, and close on 21 September.
“It’s always inspiring to hear about the meaningful initiatives being led by passionate local groups,” Toormina Gardens Centre Manager Hattie Watson said.
“What’s particularly special, is that three finalists will be selected for the community
to cast their vote, giving locals a real say in which initiative matters most to them.”
The two key selection criteria are: demonstrating a commitment to investing in the community to create better futures, and providing benefit within one of ISPTs key social impact themes of wellbeing, prosperity and enriching communities.
Applicants also must:
- demonstrate ways in which the organisation collaborates to get things done and make a lasting, positive difference
- show commitment to playing a part in shaping an environment that’s inclusive, caring and respectful of one another
- provide examples of ways the organisation is embracing growth, always learning and evolving for greater impact.
Community groups can apply via isptcommunitykickstart.com.
The successful recipient will be announced in November.
Grant application workshops are available for those requiring assistance.
For more information see toorminagardens.com.au.
q The grant celebrates the work of community groups.
q Flood recovery on the Mid North Coast.
Ladies Day at Holden Museum
By Andrea FERRARI
THE inaugural Ladies Day at the National Holden Motor Museum took place at its Bunker Gallery home on Sunday 31 August.
A call for women to showcase their classic and vintage cars at the museum highlights the feminine side of car collecting and restoration, a hobby more often associated with men,
said co-organiser Chris Paynter.
“As a first event it couldn’t have gone better, with all 25 display spots snapped up quickly and a fantastic array of cars on display on the day,” Mr Paynter said.
“It was terrific to see so many women who are into their cars, getting out and meeting other like-minded enthusiasts.
“Classic cars aren’t
just the domain of blokes and from the feedback we received, this inaugural event will only grow each year we put it on.”
2AIR FM radio presenter and car enthusiast Heather Hodgson, said Ladies Day gives women a space to show off their handiwork, talk all things motoring, and establish a new community.
“I have a red Mustang amongst a few other classic
cars, so I know the importance of being able to connect with other like-minded ladies to share my passion,” she said.
“I’m not aware of any other day in the region that is dedicated to women and cars.”
The inaugural Show and Shine was limited to 25 cars on display from 9am to 12pm when judging was finalised and prizes awarded.
This year’s winner of
Lights project powers ahead
A PROJECT to light up Sawtell’s streets has received a funding boost from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program.
Sawtell Chamber of Commerce has secured a $14,333 grant for its community-led Festoon Light Upgrade.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the Chamber can now replace the existing and
ageing festoon lights in First Avenue, and extend the lighting to encompass the entire CBD.
“This is a fantastic grassroots community project which now has the green light thanks to this welcome funding,” Mr Singh said.
“It’s projects like these, big or small, which can make a real difference in our community.
“I know the new lights
will be warmly welcomed by the local community and I congratulate Sawtell Chamber of Commerce for submitting these improvements for funding consideration.”
Mr Singh said the Coffs Coast had secured more than $440,000 in funding through the community program, which ensures organisations and councils have the facilities to support vibrant and inclusive communities.
the Holden Motor Museum Choice is Vikki Fogharty with her 1973 LS Monaro.
First place in the People’s Choice is Michelle Kingston with her 2018 VXR Holden.
Set to be an annual event, the Ladies Day car show will take place next year on the last Sunday in August.
The Museum has also launched a new display of the FX Holden, Australia’s very first production car, and
examples of motoring history such as the classic grey and red motors.
The Bunker Gallery featuring the National Cartoon Gallery and the National Holden Motor Museum, is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Heather Hodgson also has a weekly 2AIR FM radio program called Talking Cars, which airs after 8am every Thursday.
q City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams (second from left) with sponsor representatives.
q Participants of the inaugural Ladies Day at the National Holden Motor Museum.
q Chris Paynter, Vicky Holgate and Heather Collyer.
q People’s Choice winner Michelle Kingston with Mayor Nikki Williams.
q Sawtell Chamber of Commerce President Clive Greenway, Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh and Chamber VP Dale Sagar. Photo: supplied.
Rutho raps at Tidal Sounds Festival
By Andrea FERRARI
TOORMINA hip-hop rap artist Rutho will appear at the Tidal Sounds Festival at the Hoey Moey on Saturday 6 September.
One of the region’s fastest-rising talents, Rutho is becoming known for his feel-good party vibe and laidback lyrical style.
“The vibe I’m bringing to Tidal Sounds is energy, inspirational and good times,” he told News Of The Area.
“I’m switching up tempos to keep everyone locked in; some tracks to get the crowd jumping, others to slow it down and connect.
“It’s about real energy and making sure everyone feels it.”
Rutho’s music celebrates local life and
community connection, with his standout track “Up in Sawty” becoming an anthem for fans across the Coffs Coast.
“I rap to reflect life, real stories, emotion, and meaning.
“I’m inspired to go far, help out the youth, and give people a voice no matter their background.
“I do it for a family friend I lost, for my family, my nieces and nephew, and my town.”
Rutho started rapping in 2022 with a mate called “Beacho”, who he met in Manly.
“We’d rap along to our favourite tracks, and then started writing our own.”
They lost touch until Beacho reached out to invite Rutho to Sydney while he recorded his debut album.
“I jumped on a couple of
tracks, then joined him on tour.”
Following that, Rutho found a local music workshop, built a home setup, and says he hasn’t looked back.
“Linking up with Rah Records helped me level up.”
He’s also teamed up with Red Cedar Records and secured a growing list of gigs across the coastline. His energy on stage and commitment to sharing good times through music have earned him a strong following and a reputation as “one to watch”.
“I just want people to have a good time and enjoy the moment,” he says.
“That’s what this scene is all about – the vibe, the community, and the love we’ve got for life on the Coffs Coast.”
Tickets to Tidal Sounds Festival are free via the Hoey Moey website.
Human remains located in search for missing man
HUMAN remains, believed to be those of a senior last seen at Halfway Creek in the Clarence Valley earlier this year, have been located.
The 81-year-old man, David Johnston from North Rocks in Sydney’s northwest, was reported missing on Wednesday 19 March 2025 to officers attached to Parramatta Police Area
Command.
Following inquiries, the matter was referred to Coffs/ Clarence Police District.
Despite extensive inquiries to locate Mr Johnston and his vehicle, and four public appeals for assistance, he was not located.
About 4.20pm on Friday 29 August 2025, police were
Bruce rides The Long Run
By Andrea FERRARI
SENIOR cyclist Bruce Robertson is participating in the Long Run this September, a Prostate Cancer Awareness Month fundraiser asking men to prioritise their regular health checks.
The Long Run riders, runners or walkers, must complete at least 72km, a symbolic distance honouring the 72 men diagnosed with the disease each day.
For Mr Robertson, his diagnosis in 2005 came completely out of the blue during a regular health check-up.
“I had no symptoms whatsoever, which just goes to show how vital regular check-ups are,” he said.
Following his diagnosis, he underwent a prostatectomy.
"The journey didn't go as expected, as the cancer had already spread.
“I was given the option of six weeks of adjuvant radiation - still in the trial stages.
“Then came several years of nervous testing to see if it
worked.
“The cancer never returned," he said.
Mr Robertson is incredibly grateful for the care he’s received and the support from his wife Sally, his family and friends.
"Having gone through it myself, I saw first-hand the importance of awareness, early detection, and the need for ongoing research and support services."
For The Long Run, the Park Beach resident plans to tackle his kilometres on his trusty bike.
“Most Thursdays I ride from home to the harbour, where I meet up with two or three mates, and we continue along Hogbin Drive to Sawtell and then Boambee Headland to whale watch and take in the view.”
Returning on a similar route, the ride is around 42km.
“Good exercise, enjoying the scenery, the company of mates, and the debrief over coffee is also a vital part of the day, all while contributing to a cause close to my heart and feeling a sense of community
that comes with knowing that thousands of Australians are moving for the same crucial reason.”
Mr Robertson urges men to talk to their GP, understand their family history, and not be afraid to ask for a PSA blood test.
“I owe my life to my fantastic GP, who ignored two specialist opinions and demanded a biopsy.
“Early detection can make all the difference, as it did for me.”
Mr Robertson also encourages men impacted by prostate cancer to join the Coffs Harbour Prostate Cancer Support Group.
“Coffs is lucky to have a Prostate Cancer Support Nurse who can guide you through your decisions on treatments and the best way forward for you - you're not alone, reach out for support.”
More than 26,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year.
It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia.
“While survival rates
called to a property at Dirty Creek, around 50 kilometres west of Dorrigo, following reports a vehicle was located in thick scrub.
During a search of the area, police located human remains, believed to be those of Mr Johnston.
Police will prepare a report for the information of the Coroner.
are drastically improving, around 4000 men are still dying from the disease each year,” said Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia CEO Anne Savage.
Ms Savage said that taking part in The Long Run was a practical way for everyday Australians to join the fight to save more lives.
To get involved visit www.
q ‘Rutho’ will switch up the tempo for the Tidal Sounds Festival.
q Bruce Robertson and mates on their morning ride from Park Beach to Sawtell.
Pathfinders program recognised
By Andrea FERRARI
DISABILITY care
organisation Pathfinders has won a prestigious Enablement Award for The Most Outstanding Regional Not-for-Profit Providing NDIS Services for Children, Youth and Families.
The award was in the Care Services category and recognises organisations that demonstrate market leadership, inspirational performance, innovative service models and a commitment to enhancing the customer experience in the disability care sector across Australasia.
The organisation’s Support Your Path (SYP) program in Coffs Harbour provides personalised, innovative support to help participants embrace life, achieve their goals, and learn skills through participation that ultimately lead to independence.
Services include assistance with daily living, community participation,
development of life skills, employment support, and support coordination.
“Support Your Path’s success comes from our ability to personalise support around each participant’s goals and daily life, leading to meaningful and measurable outcomes,” Pathfinders Disabilities Support Manager Simone Goodfellow said.
“For example, we have supported 14 participants in the Coffs Coast area to secure independent housing with Pathfinders.
“With the ongoing guidance of their support workers, who assist with budgeting, shopping, meal preparation, maintaining their homes, and community engagement, participants have developed greater independence and confidence in managing their daily lives.
“We also actively involve each participant’s support network, including therapists, support coordinators, and family members, while always maintaining a person-
centred approach.
“This ensures each individual’s goals remain at the centre of planning and support.”
This approach has led to strong outcomes.
One young male participant, for example, was supported through driving lessons with his support worker and successfully obtained his provisional licence, significantly increasing his independence and community access.
Others have built skills through volunteering, training, and course participation, leading to casual employment opportunities and improved self-esteem.
“Our flexible, personcentred approach means participants feel respected, empowered, and capable, which is why it works,” Ms Goodfellow said.
In Coffs Harbour, Pathfinders is introducing structured social activities to further build connection and inclusion.
ETC supports Pete’s Place
By Andrea FERRARI
ST VINCENT de Paul Society’s “Pete’s Place” in Coffs Harbour has been granted $20,000 from enterprise and training company ETC’s Community Support Fund.
Pete’s Place is in Coffs Harbour Community Village and is a drop-in service for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.
ETC’s donation will assist the service in providing essential food support to its community.
It is the second consecutive year that ETC has supported Pete’s Place, recognising its vital role in addressing food insecurity and homelessness.
ETC CEO Damon Munt said the Mid North Coast
barbeques, fishing
organisation is proud to stand alongside community groups working to make a difference.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of our support,” Mr Munt said.
“These organisations are the heartbeat of their communities, and we’re honoured to help them grow and thrive.
“We know that when we invest in local organisations, we’re investing in the future of our communities.
“The ripple effect of this support is powerful - it builds resilience, fosters inclusion, and drives positive social and economic outcomes.”
By working in partnership with like-minded organisations, ETC ensures its support is both strategic and impactful, amplifying the reach and effectiveness of local initiatives.
Pete’s Place was
trips, or creative art and craft sessions hosted weekly at the Pathfinders base.
established in 2018 with the support of Coffs Harbour South Rotary, Coffs Harbour Council, and a bequest from local man Peter Grealy (the inspiration for the service’s name).
It originally provided access to basic needs provisions such as laundry and shower facilities, food, clothing, blankets and tents as well as qualified staff to provide assessment, support, casework and referrals to appropriate services.
It has since expanded to include an engagement hub, which provides wrap-around support to increase the safety, health and wellbeing of those who use the facility. Also receiving a similar share of ETC’s Community Support Fund are Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services (Taree) and St Thomas Anglican Church (Port Macquarie).
On a monthly schedule, participants will have the opportunity to choose from activities in the community such as walking, coffee outings,
q Members of Pathfinders Support Your Path program in Coffs Harbour: Manjinder Singh, Sami Hemmings and Emily Hawkins.
q Pete’s Place in Coffs Harbour Community Village.
Any day is a good day to ask R U OK?
By Andrea FERRARI
ON Thursday 11 September, Australians will be reminded that every day is a good day to ask “R U OK?”
In Woolgoolga, community members will mark R U OK? Day by gathering on the beach to form a giant smiley face in the sand.
“Everyone is invited to wear their brightest yellow,” advocate Lisa Nichols said.
“Come along from 6:30am, and be part of a powerful photo at 7am.”
R U OK? is a national suicide prevention and public health promotion charity.
It instills confidence in community members to ask one simple question.
“Asking ‘Are you OK?’ can open the door to a lifechanging conversation,” Ms Nichols said.
“I know the regret of not asking, and I also know the difference it makes when I do.
“Now, older and wiser, I regularly ask - and sometimes gently push a little further when I sense someone isn’t okay.
“It has saved lives and reminded people they are valued, needed, and not alone.”
Lifeline North Coast General Manager Angela Martin said, “Asking someone ‘Are you OK?’ can be a powerful act of care.
“You don’t need to have all the answers - just being present, listening without judgment, and showing genuine concern can help someone feel safe and
supported.
“It’s about creating space for connection and letting them know they’re not alone.
“If they’re not OK, encourage them to seek help and remind them that support is available.
“A simple conversation can be the first step toward hope and healing.”
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams told News Of The Area, “Coffs Harbour is at its best when we show up for each other.
“R U OK? Day is a chance to pause, connect, and ask the questions that matter.
“Whether we see the world the same way or not, what unites us is the care we share as a community.”
According to the charity, nine in 10 Australians report feeling grateful, supported and cared for, when someone genuinely asks them if they're OK.
Walk out of the shadows
By Andrea FERRARI
LIFELINE North Coast is inviting the local community to come together for a
special Out of the Shadows Walk to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday 10 September. The walk honours the
nine lives lost to suicide every day in Australia.
Starting at Coffs’ Jetty Foreshores, near the Yacht Club and Jetty Beach steps -
5:45am for a 6am start - the walk will take participants along the scenic route to the Jetty and beach and back, followed by a free community
But when it comes to conversations, some people are less confident than others.
breakfast cooked and served by Welcome Hospitality.
This event is designed to encourage connection, conversation, and compassion, bringing suicide out of the shadows and into the light.
Lifeline North Coast General Manager Angela Martin said the walk is a powerful way to honour those lost and support those who are struggling.
“Suicide does not discriminate - it can affect anybody, at any time.
“Behind every statistic is a person, and many loved ones left behind learning to navigate life without them.
“When we talk openly and non-judgementally about mental health and suicide, it really stimulates a sense of belonging and connectedness.”
The Out of the Shadows Walk is part of a national movement to foster open conversations about suicide, reduce stigma, and promote
Yarrila gala for ‘STILL’ awards
THE winners of a prestigious national art competition will be unveiled during a gala awards night at the City of Coffs Harbour’s Yarrila Place on Saturday, 6 September.
“STILL: National Still Life Award” is Yarrila Arts and Museum’s (YAM) national biennial acquisitive art award, which recognises excellence, diversity and innovation in contemporary still life practice.
It includes the STILL 2025 Award of $30,000, the inaugural Coffs Coast Artist Award of $5000 and the People’s Choice Award of $1000.
The major winner will have their entry added to the Coffs Harbour Regional
Gallery collection.
“With 70-odd artists named as finalists we can be certain the diversity of the work will be outstanding,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
Established in 2017, the awards are open to artists at all stages of their practice and working across all mediums, including but not limited to painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, video and installation.
The STILL exhibition will run at YAM through to 9 November.
“We’ll be kicking off in style at the launch event,” City Cultural Services Team Leader Carrie Kibbler said.
“The celebrations will be held in the galleries and flow
out into the atrium at Yarrila Place.
“We’ll also have live music by The Phil Stitt Trio.”
The entertainment will start at 4pm and include artist talks by selected finalists.
The official opening will be at 5pm and will be followed by the announcement of awards.
The judging panel includes Ms Kibbler, Dr Victoria Wareham (Australian Cinémathèque, Queensland Art Gallery/ Gallery of Modern Art), and Cath Fogarty (ceramics artist and teacher, TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour).
Exhibition visitors can cast a vote in the People’s
There are numerous free resources online for anyone needing tips.
These can be found at ruok.org.au/r-u-ok-day
help-seeking.
Participants can also take part in the online 9km walk or the 63km challenge over one week to honour the 63 Australians lost to suicide every week.
All funds raised ensure Lifeline can continue to be there 24/7, offering support in the way that suits each person best: $39 funds one life-saving phone call, $50 covers two life-saving text conversations and $100 supports a person needing Suicide Bereavement Support.
“At Lifeline, we believe suicide can be prevented through connection, compassion, continued support, and advocacy.”
If you, or someone you know, is feeling overwhelmed, Lifeline encourages you to reach out in the way you feel most comfortable.
Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14, chat online, or visit toolkit.lifeline.org.au
Choice Award, which will be announced on Friday 14 November.
The 2025 awards are presented by the City of Coffs Harbour with the support
of major sponsors Bryant McKinnon Lawyers, Moving Art and Andrew Peace Wines.
q R U OK? Day is a chance to pause and connect.
q Lisa Nichols and friends will gather on Woolgoolga Beach to create a giant smiley face in the sand.
q Last year’s ‘Out of the Shadows’ walk.
q ‘STILL’ was last at Yarrila Arts and Museum in 2023. Photo: CHCC.
Tooheys flood relief initiative raises $60k
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Tooheys NSW Flood Relief Initiative has donated $60k to the recovery effort being carried out across flood-affected areas of the state, including the Mid North Coast.
In partnership with North Coast Hotel Group (NCHG), C.ex Group and the Australian Hotels Association of New South Wales (AHA NSW), the initiative ran from 12 June to 9 July 2025.
To support the initiative, residents were encouraged to purchase a Tooheys schooner at NCHG and C.ex Group venues.
For every schooner sold, participating venues donated $50c each to GIVIT, the national not-for-profit
donation platform providing essential goods and services to flood-impacted communities.
AHA NSW donated $25,000 to the Initiative, which Tooheys matched with a further $25,000.
“Massive thanks to all the people in the local community who visited our venues and purchased a schooner of Tooheys New,” said Charlie Nalder, Director at North Coast Hotel Group.
“With your support we have been able to contribute to the fundraiser and help the affected communities south of us.
“The generosity of our patrons and staff was inspiring, and together we’ve made a real difference.”
Participating venues
included the Hoey Moey, Seaview Tavern, Coramba Hotel, Corindi Beach Hotel, Crown Hotel, Good Intent Hotel and Village Green Hotel.
GIVIT CEO Chris Staines said the donated funds will be used to provide “essential goods and services to affected communities”.
“This includes providing grocery and fuel vouchers for residents who are experiencing financial hardship as well as furniture, whitegoods and household essentials to families and community members moving back into repaired homes and businesses,” he said.
“These donations have a huge impact on people doing it tough following a disaster.”
Coffs Camera Club snaps up top place
By Andrea FERRARI
THE C.ex Coffs Camera Club emerged victorious at the Northern Zone Convention, competing against nine other clubs from Lismore to Tamworth and south to Forster.
With 12 members exhibiting, the club secured first place in both the Creative and Nature sections, ultimately winning the overall title for 2025.
q Donna Baldwin with Tom Sheppard from Port Macquarie, receiving the trophy for Coffs Harbour for Overall Winner.
Annette Brauer's image ‘Dripping Hydrangeas’ won the Creative category, while her ‘Flowers in Water’ earned a merit in Open Colour.
Her works involved immersing flowers in water
with ink cascading over the petals.
While the top nature shot was from another club, Coffs Camera Club’s top shots in the category were by Margherita Standing with ‘Dragonflies Mating’ and ‘Owlfly’.
The convention included rounds of Trivial Pursuit themed around photography and inspiring talks by Don Monroe from the Federation of Camera Clubs, as well as
Professor Des Crawley and Rob Smith.
Topics covered included Portraiture, Fine Art Photography, Shooting Wildlife, Sydney in Lockdown and Compelling Seascapes.
“The weekend was filled with camaraderie, motivational speakers, and a display of brilliant photography, leaving members of the C.ex Coffs Camera Club inspired and ready for future competitions,” Club President Michael Lamont said.
Next year the Northern Zone competition will be digital-only, hosted by Grafton.
Windows tech support for seniors
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Windows 10 operating system will reach the end of its support (EoS) on 14 October.
After this date, Microsoft stops providing security updates which leaves computers increasingly vulnerable to viruses, malware, phishing and cyberattacks.
Coffs Harbour Young Citizen of the Year 2025, Nathan Armstrong, who runs his own senior tech support service from home in Sawtell, recommends users upgrade to Windows 11, which offers improved security, regular updates and new features.
Compatibility for installing the new upgrade can be checked by downloading the Microsoft PC Health Check app, he said.
“Most newer computers should be compatible but if a computer is found to be incompatible then users may have to purchase a new PC and migrate everything over.
“It’s also important to perform regular backups to services like OneDrive, iCloud or an external Hard Drive to ensure your files are protected,” he said.
Mr Armstrong recently helped Coffs senior Ray Featherstone upgrade his laptop to Windows 11.
“I helped Ray step-by-step by checking compatibility, backing up data, installing the upgrade and then undertaking personalised 1:1 sessions so Ray could learn Windows 11 with confidence.”
To make remembering things easier, Ray was given visual tech notes.
Meanwhile, Apple is rolling out its OS 26 update which unifies the iPhone, iPad and Mac experience.
The update introduces a new redesign called Liquid Glass, featuring translucent elements, smoother animations and refreshed icons - along with new features such as call screening, expanded
accessibility settings, improved AI integration and updates to familiar apps.
Users are given more time to transition as Apple’s approach to updates is more relaxed and security updates are still being provided for older devices.
With all these upcoming changes, scams remain a concern, prompting a reminder to never trust unsolicited phone calls, popups, or messages.
Real companies will never ever request remote access or demand payment.
If you suspect being targeted by a scam, you should report it immediately to authorities.
“These changes pose a real challenge for people, especially seniors in the community,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Upgrading can be a tough choice, whether it’s buying a new computer, learning how to back up data or simply understanding technology changes.
“Many people tend to hesitate, and it often leaves them at risk when their devices are no longer
supported.
“With technology continuing to evolve at a rapid pace, being aware and
educated is very important.
“Staying informed and putting data security first helps ensure safety online.”
q Charlie Nalder, Director at North Coast Hotel Group, at the bar of the Corindi Beach Hotel.
q Nathan Armstrong helps senior Willa Hogarth.
By Sis HIGGINS
MID NORTH COAST
residents are being urged to stay alert as cyber criminals step up efforts to recruit so-called “money mules” through social media, fake job offers and online scams.
NGM Group, the parent company of Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent, has reported a 20 percent rise in fraudulent online account openings, with criminals attempting to buy or rent bank accounts to launder stolen or illegal funds.
Craig Hollingsworth, Head of Financial Crime Operations at NGM Group, said offenders are targeting vulnerable people with promises of quick cash, sometimes offering a
Bank warns: Scammers target through social media Changes to government payments and deeming rates
A NUMBER of changes to social security payments, rates, and limits will commence from 20 September 2025.
People receiving the full single rate of Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or Carer Payment will see a $29.70 boost to their fortnightly payment.
People receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance, JobSeeker, ABSTUDY (aged 22 and over), and Parenting
few hundred dollars simply for opening an account in their name.
He warned that while many victims may not realise what they are getting involved in, the activity is both serious and illegal.
More than 400 attempts were made in July to open fraudulent accounts with Newcastle Permanent.
While banks have strong processes to detect and stop fraud, Hollingsworth said criminals will simply move to another institution when blocked, making public awareness vital.
Warning signs include offers of money to open a bank account or handover account details, being paid to move money that does not
belong to you, pressure to act quickly without explanation, and job opportunities that have no legitimate business behind them.
The consequences can be severe.
People caught acting as money mules may face a criminal record, closed bank accounts, restricted access to financial services, debt if stolen funds are spent, and even police charges or prison time.
“Your bank account is your identity, it’s not a product to rent out or hand over,” Hollingsworth said.
“If it feels dodgy, it probably is.”
Hollingsworth urged locals to trust their instincts and walk away from anything that seems suspicious.
Scams Awareness Week runs from 25 to 29 August.
Payment will also see an increase to their payment.
Some recipients with financial assets, including part-rate pensioners, can expect to see changes to their payments from changes to deeming rates.
Deeming rates are used to calculate income from financial assets and are based on the principle that these assets provide a source of income for recipients.
“Deeming rates were
frozen at artificially low levels as an emergency COVID-19 measure and the Albanese Government extended the freeze to help shield age pensioners and other income support recipients while the economy recovered,” the Federal Government said in a statement.
“Social security recipients impacted by deeming rates saved around $1.8 billion as a result.”
From 20 September, a deeming rate of 0.75 percent will apply to financial assets under $64,200 for singles and $106,200 for couples combined.
Assets over this amount will be deemed at a rate of 2.75 percent.
Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold said the change to deeming rates comes with little warning and leaves many older Australians in the
dark.
“A lot of pensioners are just trying to keep up with the basics – power bills, groceries, rent,” Ms Penfold said.
“Changing the rules with hardly any notice makes it even harder for people to budget and plan.
“These Australians aren’t a line item in the budget – they’re real people who’ve worked hard, raised families, and supported their
communities,” she said.
“They deserve better.”
Ms Penfold said the policy shift ignores the reality for people on fixed incomes.
“Just because inflation is easing on paper doesn’t mean life is getting cheaper,” she said.
“The cost of food, rent and essential services is still climbing – and this change makes it even harder for people to get by.”
Correction Jet skis to boost rescue capability
NEW rescue jet skis will be patrolling beaches across the MId North Coast this summer, following a record investment from the State Government in Surf Life Saving NSW.
This boost brings the state’s fleet of jet skis up to
56.
They will be delivered ahead of the volunteer patrol season commencing on 27 September.
Mid North Coast communities set to benefit include Crescent Head,
Urunga and Sawtell.
Last year jet skis were used in 260 rescues performed by volunteer lifesavers across the state, saving critical time during emergency incidents.
”Our volunteers have continued to respond to emergency callouts throughout winter, highlighting the commitment
of our members to protecting lives along the coast, whenever and wherever we’re needed,” Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said.
“The support of the NSW Government to provide funding for rescue equipment is vital to ensure the safety of both the public and our volunteers.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp MP welcomed the delivery of two new rescue jet skis to Surf Life Saving Clubs at Crescent Head and Urunga.
“Our beaches are spectacular, but they can also be unforgiving,” he said.
“With strong currents and thousands of visitors flocking here over the summer holidays, it’s vital that our surf life savers have the right tools to keep people safe,” Mr Kemp said.
“These new rescue jet skis for Crescent Head and Urunga will give our volunteers the speed and agility they need to respond when someone is in trouble. Seconds matter, and this equipment will save lives.”
2AIR FM, a photo was captioned Jill and Charles. It should have read Jill and Michael.
q Locals are being urged to be aware of scammers. Photo: supplied.
q Jill is 2AIR FM’s office coordinator and Michael is the station’s president.
New Code of Meeting Practice for local councils
A NEW Model Code of Meeting Practice for local councils has been released and will come into effect from 1 January 2026.
All councils will need to adopt a code of meeting practice that contains the mandatory provisions of the updated Model Meeting Code by 31 December 2025.
Key changes to the Model Code of Meeting Practice include:
• Preventing councils from holding private councillor briefing sessions
to discuss matters that should be considered in the public domain at committee and council meetings (unless they are confidential);
• Encouraging councils to hold public forums preferably before committee meetings, or if they choose council meetings, to enable community engagement in local matters;
• Expanding the powers of the mayor to remove councillors from meetings for acts of disorder;
• Expanding the powers
of the mayor to remove members of the public if they disrupt council meetings;
• Requiring information considered at closed meetings to be made public after it ceases to be confidential;
• Requiring councils to give reasons when making decisions on planning matters that depart from staff recommendations (as recommended by ICAC);
• Promoting neutrality in the role of the general manager;
• Requiring council and
committee meetings to be live streamed to give the community and media access to council decision making, and to require those videos to be public for at least the rest of the council term, or 12 months in the case of a meeting in an election year.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “These changes should ensure that, in a council chamber or committee meeting, mechanisms are in place to prevent the derailing of meetings and overshadow the important work of local government.
“Under the new code, mayors should be given the
power to take immediate action against disorderly councillors.
“This should lessen the need for councils to resort to the broken code of conduct process and instead address misbehaviour immediately in the council chamber.
“I know not everyone will agree with these changes, but most people in this state would agree action is necessary to improve transparency, increase community confidence and faith in local government.
“They will make councillors more visibly in control of their councils to ensure they – as democratically elected representatives of their communities – drive the vision for their local area.”
The changes to the Meeting Code are part of a broader suite of reforms by the State Government.
A new Code of Conduct for councillors is being finalised as well as associated legislative changes, which will see significant changes to how misconduct is dealt with in local government.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller said the sector supported moves to improve probity and process in all spheres of government.
“We acknowledge the intent of the NSW Local Government Minister in his aim to seek to raise the level of respect for councils both in the community and in the chamber,” Mayor Miller said.
“We’ve had the
Coffs secures acclaimed musical
A CRITICALLY acclaimed Australian musical headlines the Spring line-up of entertainment at City of Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Memorial Theatre (JMT).
“Waltzing the Wilarra” is set in a mixed-race dance club in post-World War II Perth and is HIT Productions’ third First Nations musical production after the phenomenally successful “The Sapphires” and Wesley Enoch’s “The Sunshine Club”.
Written and composed by David Milroy, Waltzing the Wilarra stars Lorinda May Merrypor (Juliet in “& Juliet”), Shaka Cook (Hamilton) and Lisa Maza (Stingers), with the play backed by a live band.
They will perform at the JMT from 8pm on 27 September.
“The Jetty Memorial Theatre is such a treasured asset for our community and its ability to continually attract a diverse range of entertainment speaks volumes,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“The character and intimacy of the venue makes
every performance such an experience.”
Waltzing the Wilarra centres on the characters of Charlie, Elsa and Fay in a time of curfews, and the threat of arrest for consorting.
Despite this, white and black manage to form their own club; a space where people can sing, dance, listen to music and with a little luck, find some romance.
Forty years on, as the club faces demolition, the three leads stage a musical reunion and protest to save their old stomping ground.
As they reflect upon loves lost and found, old arguments and alliances resurface, as do dark secrets.
Waltzing the Wilarra is directed by Gumbaynggirr and Turkish storyteller Brittanie Shipway.
As well as writing for ABC Radio and SBS Voices, Shipway directed the Tony Award-winning musical Once On This Island at The Hayes Theatre Company.
She has also made her mark as a performer.
“Australian press critics
opportunity, along with councils, to provide feedback on the drafting of the model code and are now working through the details of the Minister’s new code to understand its application in the sector,” she said.
LGNSW last year responded to the Office of Local Government’s (OLG) discussion paper with a submission following extensive consultation with member councils, county councils and joint organisations.
While acknowledging the new code, Mayor Miller said LGNSW remained disappointed with the Minister’s decision to prohibit briefing sessions for elected council representatives.
“Councillors are elected to make informed decisions on behalf of their communities,” she said.
“Briefing sessions are not decision-making forums – they simply ensure councillors are properly equipped with the background and technical information they need before a matter comes to the public chamber.
“These briefings lead to better informed representatives and, ultimately, better decisionmaking outcomes for communities, but decisions are – and always will be –made transparently in council meetings, in full view of the public.”
have hailed Waltzing the Wilarra as a ground-breaking production and we’re
delighted to bring it here to Coffs Harbour,” City Planning and Communities Acting
Director Ian Fitzgibbon said.
“This promises to be a thought-provoking play with an underlying message that reconciliation is so much more than just saying sorry.”
q Waltzing the Wilarra can be seen at the Jetty Memorial Theatre on 27 September. Photo: Matthew Chen.
q Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig has released a new Model Code of Meeting Practice for local councils.
Saints and Magpies win premierships
By Aiden BURGESS
THE SAWTELL/Toormina Saints and Port Macquarie Magpies have both won premierships during the AFL North Coast’s grand final day at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Saints took out this year’s reserves premiership with a 5.11 (41) to 3.2 (20) grand final victory against the Port Macquarie Magpies.
The Saints added another premiership to the club’s extensive trophy cabinet, and were the only Saints side out of four grades to win their grand final on the day, as they knocked off the minor premiers.
A 21-2 lead at half-time to the Saints helped to set up the premiership win.
Saints player Hamish Bird was named best on ground.
Under 18s
The Port Macquarie Magpies Under 18s side capped off a dominant undefeated season with a resounding premiership victory, triumphing 16.10 (106) to 5.2 (32) against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints.
The Magpies ended the premiership reign of the Saints, who were going for their third straight premiership win.
Magpies player Cooper Sheldon was named best on ground.
Breakers are the best
By Aiden BURGESS
THE COFFS Harbour Breakers are once again the kings of the AFL North Coast competition.
The Breakers side won the seniors premiership after prevailing 10.6 (66) to 9.8 (62) against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints, in an epic grand final which came right down to the final frantic moments.
The Breakers won their first seniors premiership since 2019, banishing the demons of losing their past two grand finals in 2022 and 2024.
The drought breaker was the club’s third senior premiership since entering the competition in 2015.
The premiership victory capped off a stellar season for the Breakers in which they finished as minor
Breakers win women’s premiership
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Breakers women have won the AFL North Coast premiership for a record third time.
The Breakers became the first club to win three premierships in the women’s competition since its inception in 2018.
The Breakers won the 2025 premiership flag after having a 5.1 (31) to 1.3 (9) victory against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints, in their grand final at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Breakers avenged their loss to the Saints in last season’s grand final, and capped off a top season in which they lost only twice.
Breakers player Nat Giri was awarded best on ground.
It was an extra special day for Breakers captain Danielle Watson, who not only led her side to a premiership win, but did so
in her 100th game for the club.
She became the first player to reach the 100game milestone in the AFL North Coast women's competition.
Having been there from the start, the premiership winner said it was an amazing competition to be a part of.
“A lot of the girls have been around since the start, and it's pretty hard to walk away because it’s so much fun,” she said.
“It’s just getting better, the skills are growing, and it’s just amazing to be a part of.”
Breakers coach Jay Guthrie said the premiership winners had a good mix of youth and experience.
“We had a great mix this year of raw talent coming in, but also some older heads that really kept us calm in those moments where you can lose your head,” he said.
premiers, and was the first time they had beaten the Saints this season.
The Saints took a twopoint lead into the final quarter, after a strong third quarter saw them overturn an 11-point half-time deficit.
Facing an eight-point deficit, Breakers captain Alex Pyke kicked a goal to cut the lead to two points with just 10 minutes remaining, setting up a grandstand finish.
A goal to Riley Dagger gave the Breakers the lead with six minutes left, with neither side able to kick a goal in the final few minutes, as the Breakers held off the Saints in the final desperate moments to become this year’s premiers.
Saints player Jai Langenberg was awarded the Woodlock Medal as best on ground.
q The Coffs Harbour Breakers celebrate their premiership win.
q Sawtell/Toormina Saints reserves side celebrate their premiership win. Photo: AFL North Coast.
q Coffs Harbour Breakers women celebrate their premiership win.
Roosters eye back-to-back premierships
By Mick BIRTLES
THE Woolgoolga Seahorses and the Nambucca Roosters did battle for a berth in the Group 2 Grand Final on Sunday, in a match-up that played out with every bit of the fire and intensity expected from such a high stakes game.
Great weather conditions for football greeted players and the large crowd at the Solitary Islands Sports Ground in Woolgoolga.
The tone for the game was set early with both sides aggressive in attack and highly disciplined in defence.
With early possession favouring the visitors, Roosters second rower Dean Goodwin was first to put points on the board seven minutes into the game with a line-busting run, placing the ball next to the uprights.
Tyronne Roberts-Davis comfortably kicked the conversion, giving Nambucca a six point lead.
The Roosters’ Jay Melrose extended his side’s lead just six minutes later, scoring under the posts after a well worked attacking move.
Another simple conversion for Roberts-Davis saw the score climb to 12-0.
The points spree continued six minutes later with Nambucca’s Logan Jones outstepping multiple defenders to cross the line, before another RobertsDavis conversion took the score to 18-0.
Unfazed by the deficit, the Seahorses stuck to their gameplan and settled into an attacking rhythm.
Twenty-seven minutes into the half, Callen Tapine scored a much-needed try under the posts for
Woolgoolga, which was converted confidently by Jake Elphick.
With six minutes left in the half, Woolgoolga winger Sharne Perham scored again in the corner, before Elphick kicked a tough conversion to close the gap to 18-12.
In the closing minutes of the half the Roosters got themselves into prime field position and Logan Jones crossed the line for his second try.
After another successful Roberts-Davis conversion, the first half ended with the Roosters in front 24-12.
The opening minutes of the second half were punctuated by a blistering 60-metre run by RobertsDavis that put his team well in reach of the line and, in the next phase of play, Jay Melrose crossed for his second try of the game.
The game settled down into a tough battle for points, with Woolgoolga having the upper hand in field position.
Capitalising on the possession, the Seahorses’ Cooper Cochrane scored to bring the game to 28-16 with 24 minutes left to play.
With the gap closing, Woolgoolga weren’t done yet, scoring again two minutes later to dissolve the Roosters’ lead to six points.
With plenty of time left on the clock, Woolgoolga continued the onslaught with second row Reeyce Sadler crossing the line next.
The successful conversion tied the game up at 28-28, with Woolgoolga looking the more likely to seal the deal.
The Roosters weren’t ready to lie down however.
With less than 10 minutes on the clock, a penalty gave the Roosters prime field
position, paving the way for winger Isaac Jones to cross the line and give his side the lead.
Although the last few minutes of the game was a tense fight for points, the Roosters emerged victorious, with a final score of 32-28.
They now have their sights on back-to-back premierships, taking on Sawtell for Grand Final glory next Sunday.
“I am happy with the team's performance today and will only have some minor adjustments to our game plan for next week’s grand final,” Roosters coach Warwick Jones told News Of The Area.
Three minor grade games were played before Sunday’s main event.
The Roosters U18s, last year's premiers, had their season come to an end at the
Basketballers prepare for semi finals
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Coast basketball teams have booked their semi-final spots during the final round of Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s winter senior season at Sportz Central.
Men’s A Grade minor premiers Beyond TowingCoffs Harbour had a 69-64
win against Chihuahuas. Nicholas Nugent had a game high 29 points.
We Can’t Dunk had a 5341 win against All Washed Up, Kaspa Ngohset had a game high 13 points.
White Chocolate had a 35-29 win against Scorpions, during the final round of the Men’s B Grade season.
Joe Greer top scored with
21 points for the winners. Duwant beat The Bricklayers 45-43, Brad Jenkins had a game high 24 points.
Men’s C Grade minor premiers Pingas finished their regular season undefeated with a 97-26 win against the Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Division 2 team.
Liam Foster had a game high 27 points for the winners.
The Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Division 1 team had a 78-38 win against Giddy Party.
Zavier Martin top scored for the Suns with 26 points.
Women’s The Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s finished
as Women’s A Grade minor premiers after a 90-66 win against Narwhals Loaded.
Kira Juffermans was on fire for the Suns top scoring with 42 points.
The Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Division 1 team beat the Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Division 2 team by 64-51.
Ashley Boutros top
hands of the Grafton Ghosts, going down 18-28 in a quality game of rugby league.
The Ghosts will meet the Macksville Sea Eagles in the Grand Final on Sunday at the C.ex International Stadium Coffs Harbour on Sunday 7 September.
The Nambucca Roosters Women’s Tackle side are also bound for their first Grand Final, convincingly defeating the Grafton Ghosts 36-10 in the Qualifying Final.
They will meet the Woolgoolga Seahorses in Sunday's Grand Final. In the Reserve Grade Qualifying Final, the Macksville Sea Eagles got the better of the Coffs Comets 2014 in a tough game of football that could have gone either way.
Macksville will meet the Woolgoolga Seahorses in next week’s Grand Final.
scored for the winners with 18 points. Women’s social competition minor premiers Coffs Flames ended their regular season with a 29-23 win against Ring Ins.
Mantas Mystics had a 43-27 win against Mantas Mermaids, Brooke Dart top scored with 20 points. Mantas Mummas had a 36-16 win against The Mighty Ducks.
q Nambucca Roosters player Logan Jones is met by Woolgoolga defenders Coen Van Dugteren, Reyce Saddler and Stephen Prince.
q Woolgoolga’s Michael Curnow on the attack during Sunday’s qualifying final against the Nambucca Roosters.
q Nambucca’s Jay Melrose adds to the Roosters’ tally during Sunday’s qualifying final.
q Try time for Nambucca Roosters Women’s Tackle player Wulaaran Walker.
q Nambucca Roosters Women’s Tackle player Renee Widders hits a wall of Grafton defenders.
WHAT'SVIBIN'
An homage to the greatest tenor of all time
CELEBRATE the legacy of the great Luciano Pavarotti with an unforgettable performance at The Jetty Theatre on Saturday 6 September at 3pm.
Internationally-acclaimed lyric tenor Paul Tabone, often referred to as Australia’s own “Bocelli”, has performed to audiences around the world, including at the National
Opera of Bucharest, Teatro Carlo Felice, Teatro Del Giglio, the Sydney Opera House, London’s West End, and Broadway.
“Viva Pavarotti” showcases some of the maestro’s most beloved arias while reflecting on his extraordinary career and enduring influence on the world of classical music.
Audiences will experience powerful renditions of classics such as The Prayer, Nessun Dorma, Maria, Torna Surriento, O Sole Mio and many more.
Paul will be joined by a guest soprano
performing favourites including My Heart Will Go On, Hero, Time to Say Goodbye and more, adding to what promises to be a remarkable afternoon of music.
This is a rare opportunity to honour the life and artistry of Luciano Pavarotti — a must-see for opera enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Tickets are on sale now at www. jettytheatre.com/viva-pavarotti/.
q Internationally-acclaimed lyric tenor Paul Tabone.
Sumptuous music and storytelling
By Andrea FERRARI
WELL-KNOWN opera arias and iconic songs from musicals are on the program for the Coffs Harbour Music Society’s upcoming concert with internationallyacclaimed tenor Bradley Daley and pianist Sarka Budinska.
The concert takes place on Saturday 27 September from 7.30pm at St John Paul College Theatre, Coffs Harbour.
For anyone who loves sumptuous music and engaging storytelling, this concert provides both.
Bradley shares surprising and sometimes humorous stories of a boy from the Gold Coast finding himself singing powerful roles in Germany, including the biggest of them all, Siegfried in Wagner’s epic Ring Cycle.
“Our lucky audience can expect an unforgettable concert by these
international performers with powerful arias, as well as moments of fun and hilarity from the multi-talented Bradley Daley, along with scintillating accompaniment by pianist Sarka Budinska,” said Music Society
q Bradley Daley as Siegfried in Wagner’s epic The Ring Cycle.
President Leigh Summers.
While Bradley grew up on the Gold Coast he spent many childhood holidays in Coffs Harbour.
These days he travels between Australia and the great opera halls in Belgium, Italy, England, Germany, France and Hanoi.
His talents are far broader than opera with many successful forays into musical theatre, including roles alongside Eric Idle from Monty Python’s ‘Not the Messiah’ and performances as both Gus and Old Deuteronomy in ‘Cats’.
UPPER ORARA HALL
UPPER ORARA ROAD FUNDRAISER
q Bradley Daley and Sarka Budinska.
By Manny WOOD
Judge examines DIY Will
Harry makes a Will, using a homemade Will kit, leaving his Smith Street property to his daughter, Wendy.
The Will makes no reference to Harry’s other assets.
Wendy had been living with Harry and assisting with his care.
A few years later, Harry obtains a reverse mortgage, due to financial pressures.
The mortgage is registered over the Smith Street property.
When Harry is diagnosed with cancer, he decides to sell the Smith Street property and downsize, purchasing a unit with the surplus funds after the mortgage is repaid.
Wendy and Harry move into the unit. Wendy assists with the household expenses and continues to provide daily care to Harry.
When Harry passes-away, a number of issues arise.
The meaning of the Will becomes a bone of contention and two of Harry’s other children claim to be entitled to provision from his estate.
Wendy claims to be entitled to the unit, while the other children say that in the circumstances where the Smith Street property has been sold, the gift of the property to Wendy fails.
Proceedings are commenced in the Supreme Court and 18 months later, the matter proceeds to a hearing.
Numerous affidavits are filed addressing the circumstances surrounding the making of the homemade Will and Harry’s conversations with the various family members.
Ultimately, the Court rules that despite the Will failing to refer to the gifting of the unit to Wendy, she shall receive the unit outright.
The Court also rules that the relatively small balance of Harry’s estate is to be divided amongst all of his children, equally, on the basis of the rules of “intestacy”, which apply when a Will fails to address the whole of the deceased’s assets.
The other children’s claims for further provision are dismissed.
The Court states that the use of home-made Will kits carry “risks” which often “materialise”.
These risks are also present in on-line platforms purporting to offer cost-effective Will making services.
The legal costs, the stresses of litigation and the associated delays could have been easily avoided.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
Net zero at any cost?
UNSEEN by city and suburban eyes, much of the forests and farmland of our country, from far-north Queensland to Tasmania, are being devastated by uncaring multi-national renewable-energy companies, at the invitation of an ignorant Australian government.
Approval of the Robbins Island wind project is the latest and greatest in the procession of desecration, which in total far exceeds the Franklin Dam issue of the eighties.
This begs the huge question - where are the so-called Green organisations?
Not a word from them on the biggest environmental destruction issue in the history of modern Australia.
The Environment Minister Murray Watt assures us that the environmental values of Robbins Island, a globally-significant wildlife sanctuary and critical part of the SiberianAustralasian bird migration route, will not be affected by the 100-turbines, the four quarries, the 1.2kilometre-long bridge to the mainland, the worker's camps, and all the associated roadworks and infrastructure.
This must qualify for the Tell-a-bigenough-lie-for-long-enough-and-they-willbelieve-you award; or maybe Australians just don't care anymore - net zero at any cost?
Yours Sincerely, Peter DINGLE, Urunga.
George W Nicoll: Steamships and Sawmills
By Karen FILEWOOD
DURING the late 1800s and early 1900s
George Wallace Nicoll was a household name in the timber and shipping industry, providing employment and a much-needed passenger and cargo service between Sydney and the north coast.
Born in Dundee, Scotland George emigrated to Sydney with his parents, George and Sarah Nicholl, arriving in July 1848, aged 14 months.
George senior established a merchant and shipping business, running the first small vessels between Sydney and the northern rivers.
George junior and his younger brother Bruce took over their father’s business in 1869 in a partnership, running the fleet and eventually replacing them with steamers.
In 1881 George junior retired from the business to start his own firm as a timber merchant and ship owner, trading in the Tweed River, Byron Bay, Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.
He regularly travelled to Dundee to organise the building of new ships which included Bonnie Dundee, Karuah, Chindrah, Tweed 1, Orara, Byron, Tweed H, Excelsior, Dorrigo, Wollumbin, Cavanba, Duranbah and Noorebar.
In the 1890s he became the mayor of Canterbury and established two Woolgoolga sawmills in 1892 and 1898.
Despite his diagnosis of locomotor ataxia
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
HOW do I get my kids to pick up after themselves?
It seems so simple, and yet we follow a continual pattern of them being told to pick up, falling back into bad habits, me getting annoyed and doing it for them, and returning to the beginning again. It's driving me crazy.
Dear Gabrielle,
It appears that you are doing the Tidy Up Barn Dance with your kids, but they don't know the moves and have instead created a sub-par alternative, a bit like when Raygun took on the hip-hop scene and thought some kangaroo hops and something called 'The Sprinkler' would cut it.
Perhaps, much like a barndance, you need to show your kids how to be respectful and responsible through smaller steps instead of just yelling, 'Clean up your pigsty'. You could even turn it into a song: Get up early, make your bed / Clothes away or you won't be fed / Have a shower, eat some toast / unpack dishes from last night's roast / hang your towel out in the sun / you'll miss the bus if you don't run / wait a minute, lower that brow / do-sido your partner now.
And so on.
This will either motivate your kids or drive them stark raving mad.
Either way it's a win-win for you. They will do their chores happily, or they'll do them just to prevent you from singing cheesy songs complete with dips 'n dives and petronella performances up and down the hallway and around the (now spotless) living room floor.
Give it a go, Gabrielle.
I'm keen to hear how you get on.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
in 1902, he purchased and moved Pullen’s Woolgoolga mill to Coffs Harbour jetty by traction engine in 1903.
Travelling to England in January 1905 to build the Noorebar, he also sought expert advice on his health but nothing could be done.
Two months after his return and his health failing, he sold his firm to the North Coast Steam Navigation Company (NCSN), which included the steamships Cavanba, Dorrrigo, Wollumbin and Noorebar, with his droghers and punts on the Tweed River and the Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour sawmills.
Coincidentally, his son Alan Nicoll was working in the NCSN company, in charge of the timber department.
A few weeks before his death he travelled to the Friendly Islands then passed away on 4 November 1906 at his Canterbury home, called Blink Bonnie, leaving a legacy of £61,475 for his wife and eight children.
Needless suffering
DEAR News Of The Area,
In response to “EPA investigates more Brush Turkey deaths”, p2, 29 August edition.
I get it… Brush Turkeys are not the best looking birds and have some annoying habits, like digging.
But, we do have laws, which we hope will deter the malicious killing of our indigenous species.
Brush Turkeys are the most ancient of the Megapods, millions of years old. They are a totem for Indigenous people and are vital for the maintenance of our local ecosystems.
Its needless suffering on an innocent animal which I hope will cease.
Regards, Zoe DEFTEROS Coffs Harbour.
Gabrielle W.
DEAR News Of The Area,
q George W Nicoll.
My view on the GKNP and koala protection
DEAR News Of The Area,
THIS Labor government’s environmental policy doesn’t look like it’s being run by those in Macquarie Street, but maybe by rooftop protestors who contribute little to society and inner-city hypocrites who choose mining by consumption of the very products they campaign against.
These high-end activists are screaming “koala crisis”, all the while happily living in high rise towers built from concrete and steel, wrapped in plastics, stuffed with furniture made from imported timber ripped from forests overseas with zero environmental standards.
That’s not conservation. That’s hypocrisy.
The latest rumour out of the timber industry is that the full 176,000 hectares will be locked up in the Great Koala National Park.
Yet, only days ago, Chris Minns himself said he wasn’t guaranteeing it.
Which is it, Premier?
We got a Labor government that is being bulldozed at every turn by Penny Sharpe and activists running the show.
All the while being cheered on by inner city independents like Alex Greenwich, Jacqui Scruby and Michael Regan. Politicians who prefer the city benefits of their own ruined environment.
It’s the same old Labor.
Same chaos with the unions.
Same favouritism for Western Sydney.
And once again, its regional families paying the price.
Timber is the most sustainable resource we have.
It grows back, sequesters carbon while it grows, stores carbon as the product, breaks down naturally, can be recycled, and it even supports renewable energy and composting.
Compare that to driving a car, using a phone, or wearing a watch, all of which rely on mining products that have far greater impact on the environment than forestry ever could.
But responsible and well managed mining isn’t the enemy either.
We need metals and minerals to drive our economy and our lifestyle.
Labor’s own data paid for by the public tells a very different story from the activist fairytale.
Dr Bradley Law, the lead scientist from the Department of Primary Industries, was gagged for years.
His seven year study across 224 sites with 25,000 hours of monitoring found that regulated timber harvesting in state forests had no effect on koala populations, nor did land tenure.
The real dangers to koalas being wildfire, chlamydia, urban deforestation, vehicle strikes, and dog attacks.
Forestry, which plants more trees than it takes, doesn’t even make the top five.
And yet, instead of confronting those real threats, Labor wants to lock up the GKNP which will only proliferate pests and weeds through chronic underfunding.
Improving technology gives us better counts, and the CSIRO estimating 287,830 - 628,010 koalas in Australia shows they may not be endangered anymore.
Labor’s own high-tech drone survey backs it up with more than 12,000 koalas in the GKNP assessment area alone.
Most in state forests, not national parks.
The evidence is clear for Minns and yet he is still refusing to be transparent.
Instead of trusting their own robust data, Labor relies on activist driven ideology and emotion.
They’ve weaponised the koala as a political mascot for votes in Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong.
Worse still, the “Community Panel” designed to guide GKNP decisions was dominated by environmental NGOs, mostly from Sydney, not locals.
Only recently did Penny Sharpe start calling it the Community and Environmental Panel.
While Labor demonises our local timber, they’re opening the door to timber imports from countries that don’t hold a candle to our environmental standards.
So, in trying to "save" the koala, they’re threatening to offshore thousands
of Aussie jobs, and we already import $6.8B worth of timber from countries where deforestation is rampant and unregulated.
State forests currently operate with modest Community Service Obligations, $20M in total, or $8.50 per hectare.
National parks, by contrast, carry obligations of $850M, or $121 per hectare.
These figures come from a 2019 report, and no updated analysis has been provided.
That’s a 14-fold cost difference per hectare, and taxpayers deserve transparency about whether these numbers have shifted.
The GKNP is nothing more than a glossy billboard for city votes, paid for with regional jobs.
That’s the hallmark of Labor: the same old game playing dressed up as environmental conservation.
If we’re serious about improving the environment, just look at the facts.
NSW already has 7.6M hectares of national parks compared to just 2M hectares of state forests.
At a cost of $121 per hectare, have national parks really delivered the outcomes we were promised?
And what difference will locking up another 0.176M hectares for a name change actually make, for the environment, or for koalas?
Regards, Michael KEMP MP, Member for Oxley.
Lack of due process for vegetation plan
DEAR News Of The Area,
AT the Council meeting held on Thursday 28 August, 2025, there was a motion to endorse recommendations from the 2025/26 Environmental Levy Grants Program Panel.
Various organisations had applied for funding.
Sixteen submissions were received and 11 submissions were recommended for approval.
Mayor Williams added an additional point to this motion, which was that Council
“prepares a Vegetation Management Plan for the Jetty Foreshores precinct to inform all future revegetation works to be funded by the Environmental Levy Reserve (Strategic Programs) in 2025/26.”
Mayor Williams introduced this on the night and Councillors had absolutely no forewarning, and thus, had absolutely no background information or time to make an informed decision.
The Mayor herself did not appear to know the extent of the boundaries of this plan and was later contradicted by the General Manager.
The cost of this Vegetation Management Plan was estimated by the General Manager to be $50,000.
Surely, a decision like this, which entails spending $50,000 of ratepayers’ money, should not have to be made on the night. Where is the due process in this regard? Why the urgency?
Why could this not have waited until the next meeting and the councillors be given a full briefing of what this Vegetation Management Plan entails?
How does this vegetation management plan fit in with the State Government’s
plans for the Jetty Foreshore?
Has Dunecare been consulted prior to this decision?
Where is the transparency that the Mayor keeps talking about?
Lots of questions.
Councillors Williams, Fowler, Oxford, Cecato and Saro voted for this motion.
Councillors Cassell, Judge, Sechi and Amos voted against.
Premier Minns
Regional advisory group launched
THE Premier and Minister for Regional NSW will convene an advisory group to address the challenges faced by people living and working in regional, rural and remote areas of the state.
Announced at the 2025 Bush Summit, the NSW Premier’s “Rural, Remote & Regional Advisory Council” (PRRRAC) will meet twice annually with Premier Chris Minns and Minister Tara Moriarty.
The first council meeting is set to take place this year and will bring together representatives from across the regions to provide direct advice and insights on issues impacting their communities, from essential services and key infrastructure to biosecurity.
An invitation has been extended to NSW Country Mayor’s Association Chair Rick Firman, the Chair of NSW Regional Cities, and representatives from the Local Land Services, Country Women’s Association, regional health and education sectors, Indigenous councils, and business communities.
“We want to work with regional communities to find solutions that really meet their needs and will make a difference,”
“We are committed to delivering regional communities their fair share and this group means we can ensure our responses are targeted, effective and inline with the realities of regional life.”
Chair of the Country Mayors Association and Mayor of Temora, Rick Firman said “only positive things can come from this initiative”.
“Premier Minns was receptive to the proposal when we put this to him personally,” he said.
“We will share the challenges with suggested solutions, we will have government policy proposals bounced off us and give genuine feedback and we will also share the countless inspiring initiatives that occur in our cherished rural, remote and regional communities which may be replicated across our great state.”
The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW President Tanya Jolly said the advisory panel is a “step in the right direction”.
“We welcome the chance to be part of this group to put forward the issues our members are telling us are impacting their communities and the quality of life of residents in those areas,” she said.
“But it needs to be more than just words – we have to see the insights this group
is providing be taken forward by the NSW Government and acted on.
“And the issues from our perspective are very clear.”
Ms Jolly said the CWA would be highlighting the declining level of health services in many areas, land use and planning regulations, lack of affordable housing and the state of telecommunications.
“What we hear often is that so many country residents feel like they’re not being listened to by government and their concerns are being relegated to the ‘too hard’ basket.
“In 2025 our regions deserve better, and the people who live there should be able to expect reasonable access to quality services, and workable infrastructure,” Ms Jolly said.
Regards, Helen OLIVER, Coffs Harbour.
said.
q CWA of NSW President Tanya Jolly said the advisory panel is a ‘step in the right direction’.
Embrace character and endless possibility
Address: 44 Forest Close, Boambee
Price: $1,100,000
Beds: 4, Bath: 2, Car: 2
Land size: 3,008 sqm
NESTLED in the picturesque heart of the Boambee Valley, 44 Forest Close offers a rare opportunity to secure a classic settlers cottage-style home set on a sprawling quarter acre of tranquil land.
This character-filled fourbedroom residence embodies warmth and potential, inviting you to create your dream lifestyle in a coveted rural enclave-all at an entrylevel price point for the area.
A timeless bull nose veranda sweeps gracefully across the front of the property, immediately setting the tone for the charm and authenticity within.
Step inside to discover a formal lounge room, crowned by a pitched timber ceiling and high-set clerestory windows that flood the space with natural light.
On chilly evenings, a slow combustion heater transforms the lounge into a cosy haven, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening with a book.
A timber staircase leads to
a delightful loft area, offering a versatile living space and an additional bedroom-ideal for guests, teenagers, or a creative retreat.
Back on the main level, the home's original kitchen is a nostalgic nod to the past while boasting a combination of gas and electric cooking to suit every home chef.
The original bathroom retains its period appeal
and is thoughtfully complemented by a separate toilet for family convenience.
The open plan living and dining area is the heart of the home, seamlessly integrating two generously sized bedrooms, both complete with built-in robes.
At the end of the residence, the master bedroom enjoys privacy and practicality, featuring an
original ensuite and a walk-in robe.
For those who cherish indoor-outdoor living, all main living areas and the master suite spill out onto the welcoming bull nose veranda, offering a peaceful outlook over the lush grounds.
Outside, a substantial separate garage/shed stands ready to accommodate
Move straight in and enjoy this stylish, low maintenance home just minutes from Sawtell Beach and its vibrant cafés and restaurants. Recently refreshed with a coat of paint and new blinds, it is ready for modern living. The home has 3 good sized bedrooms with the master having an ensuite and walk in robe, an open plan lounge/living area with the kitchen having new bench tops and a dishwasher. The double garage has a controller door unit and internal access for convenience and security. The fully fenced yard is a great place for the kids and pets to play with the covered entertaining area being the ideal place to relax after a long day.
All of this within walking distance to Toormina Gardens, Toormina Medical Centre and public transport. Homes like this rarely come on the market so it won’t last long!! Arrange your inspection today
vehicles, tools, or hobbies, with the convenience of two roller doors.
The property, while brimming with original features, presents a wonderful canvas for those with vision-some cosmetic renovation will transform this home into a showpiece, unlocking its full potential.
Whether you're a first home buyer, an investor, or a
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Agents: Chris Hines (0439 667 719) and Kim McGinty (0432 953 796).
LOCALSPORT
Lions roar into Grand Final
By David WIGLEY
THE Coffs City United Lions have stormed into the HIT105.5 Men’s Premier League Grand Final, dismantling the Woolgoolga Wolves 4-1 in a secondhalf blitz at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
Despite finishing six points clear atop the ladder and claiming back-to-back Premierships, the Wolves were reminded that finals football plays by its own rules.
Woolgoolga struck early, James Gorrie opening the scoring in the 16th minute to give the league leaders a 1-0 edge heading into the sheds.
But whatever was said in the Lions’ dressing room at
halftime worked.
Captain Martin Kelleher levelled just two minutes after the restart, then added a second in the 51st minute to flip the contest on its head.
From there, Coffs City were ruthless.
Asad Qasim made it 3-1 before Nuno Lopez iced the result, booking the Lions a ticket to the 13 September decider.
For Woolgoolga, the road to the grand final isn’t over just yet.
They'll host Northern Storm on 6 September for a second crack at the big dance.
The Storm kept their title hopes alive with a 2-0 win over the Yamba Breakers in the elimination
play-off.
After a tense, goalless first half, James Tial and
q Flying Coffs City United winger Sam Carswell turning defence into attack.
Wigley siblings earn Aussie squash call-up
New South Wales.
SQUASH siblings Dylan and Jaida Wigley have capped off a standout week in Cairns with selection in the Australian Combined High Schools (CHS) team to face New Zealand in the annual Trans-Tasman challenge.
Representing New South Wales over four days of competition against New Zealand and Queensland, the Orara High School pair were named in the national side during the event's presentation night - and suited up for Australia on the fifth and final day.
Fifteen-year-old Dylan
said the week didn’t start as planned but ended on a high.
“I was 2-1 up against Queensland’s number three on his home courts but ended up losing 3-2,” he said.
“That was tough, but I bounced back to beat New Zealand’s number two, three and four.”
He saved his best for last.
“My final match for NSW, against the Queensland number two, was my best.
“After an inspirational team talk, I won 3-0, so I was stoked to finish strong.
"I was thrilled to be named at number four in the
five-player team.
“I lost 3-1 to my Kiwi opponent but it was a fantastic week, we even exchanged shirts after the match.”
Younger sister Jaida, 14, also delivered.
“I struggled early against the older New Zealand number one and two,” she said.
“But I beat the Queensland number one 3-2, and on day five I played my best squash, [with] a 3-0 win over my New Zealand opponent to earn points for Australia.”
The siblings’ CHS journey
has been six months in the making, beginning in March at the Coffs Harbour Squash Club where they represented Orara High School.
From there, they earned selection for North Coast, competing in Sydney under coach Nathan Beal of Bellingen High School. Strong performances in the teams and individual events in Sydney led to their NSW callup under Tegan Morgan from Grafton High School.
“Combined High Schools has been a great experience and a great way to meet new people,” Jaida said.
Group 2 teams to play off for premierships
By Aiden BURGESS
THE SAWTELL Panthers and Nambucca Roosters are set to play for the ultimate prize during Group 2 Rugby League's grand final day, at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The Panthers enter their first grand final since 2011, which is also the last time they won the first-grade premiership.
Sawtell will try to add a fourth premiership trophy
after winning the big prize in 1978, 2009, and 2011.
Amazingly, all three of their premiership wins were by a solitary point in each grand final.
The Roosters will look to defend their premiership, with last year’s win breaking a 28-year title drought.
The Roosters will also look to add to their record ten firstgrade premiership victories.
The Panthers and Roosters last played off in the first-grade decider in 2011,
with the Panthers squeaking home 29-28.
The Roosters beat the Panthers both times in their two home and away encounters this season, but the Panthers won their last meeting 32-30 in the first week of the finals.
The Woolgoolga Seahorses and Macksville Sea Eagles clash for the reserve grade premiership.
The Seahorses will look to cap off a great season in which they finished as minor
premiers and lost only once, while the Sea Eagles will aim to go one better after finishing runners-up in a golden-point grand final last season.
The Woolgoolga Seahorses and Nambucca Roosters meet in the women’s premiership decider, with the minor premier Seahorses looking to go one better after finishing runners-up last season.
The Macksville Sea Eagles and Grafton Ghosts play off for the Under 18s premiership.
Junior teams to play for premierships
By Aiden BURGESS
GROUP 2 Junior Rugby League teams have earned grand final spots with victories in their Preliminary Finals in Smithtown.
The Sawtell Panthers Under 16s made it through to this year’s grand final after defeating the Kempsey Dragons by 34-26.
The Bowraville Tigers Under 16s Girls Tackle side progressed to the final game of the season with a 38-22 win against Macleay Valley.
Sawtell Panthers Red made the League Tag grand final after having a 20-16 win against Sawtell Panthers Green.
The Bowraville Tigers earned a place in the Under
15s grand final with a 2216 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets.
The Kempsey Dragons Under 14s made their grand final after having a 52-12 win against the Smithtown Tigers.
The Sawtell Panthers Under 14s Girls Tackle team earned a grand final berth after beating Macleay Valley Red 20-4.
The Smithtown Tigers made the Under 13s grand final courtesy of a 26-6 win against the Bowraville Tigers.
Grand finals
Group 2 Junior Rugby League’s best teams now play off for premierships during grand final day on Saturday, 6 September at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
q The Sawtell Panthers and Nambucca Roosters play off for the first-grade premiership this weekend.
The Nambucca Valley Tigers and Sawtell Panthers play off in the Under 16s decider, while the Sawtell Panthers and Bowraville Tigers play off in the Under 16s Girls Tackle grand final.
Coffs Harbour Comets and Sawtell Panthers Red duel for the League Tag premiership.
The Smithtown Tigers and Bowraville Tigers face off for the Under 15s premiership.
The Coffs Harbour
Comets Under 14s will look to cap off an undefeated season with a premiership win, when they take on the Kempsey Dragons.
The Coffs Harbour Comets Under 13s will also look to cap off an undefeated season with a premiership win, when they face the Smithtown Tigers.
The Bowraville Tigers and Sawtell Panthers play off in the Under 14s Girls Tackle grand final.
Campbell Brear struck in quick succession to end Yamba’s campaign.
Brear’s goal – his 15th of the season – keeps him in the hunt for the Golden
Boot, though he still trails Yamba’s Taylor Corbacho, who tops the charts with 18.
q Northern Storm Golden Boot contender Campbell Brear.
q Squash siblings Jaida and Dylan Wigley have been selected to play for Australia after four days competing for
By Aiden BURGESS
TRADITIONAL Shotokan
Karate Federation (TSKF) Coffs Harbour club members have achieved top results at the Queensland Titles.
The nine members represented NSW at the Traditional Shotokan Karate Federation Queensland Championship Titles on the Gold Coast.
The club members participated in two days of intense training under Nemoto Sensei, direct from Japan, and had a successful state titles returning with three gold medals, three silver medals, and one bronze medal.
Andrew Hall won gold in the Kumite, Gold Kata, and Spirit Award.
James Ryan won gold in the Kata and silver in the Kumite, Sam Stanford won
silver in the Kumite and silver in the Kata, and Shannon Robinson won bronze in the Kata.
The club members were also awarded the Spirit Award for Excellence in Karate-Do.
Club Sensei Andrew Hall gave some background to what forged the club’s success.
“The TSKF Coffs Harbour Club had an amazing representation at the state titles for a small local non-forprofit club that only formally started our own branch three years ago,” he said.
“To have nine members of the club compete at this level was a show of their dedication, team spirit and skills.
“Each member trained relentlessly in the lead up but the support between the team members was what
really shone and got each competitor across the medal line.
“With the combined dedication from the club instructors Sensei Alec Shaw and myself we have been able to foster a club culture centred around inclusiveness, safety, and respect.
“The spirit displayed by our club members was inspirational to say the least.”
Traditional Shotokan Karate Coffs Harbour Club members are now in preparation for the NSW Titles, to be held in Lismore from 31 October to 1 November.
This will be a selection event for the next Australian Team to compete in the ISKF World Titles in Mexico 2026.
The next Australian team will be announced at the next Australian Titles in Caloundra in March 2026.
Snappers and Pirates to face off in grand final
By Aiden BURGESS
THE COFFS Harbour Snappers and Port Macquarie Pirates are set to play off for the biggest prize in Mid North Coast rugby.
The two sides will clash in the first-grade grand
Top results for karate club Kart Championship action
final of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season on Saturday night at Coffs Rugby Park.
The Pirates have beaten the Snappers in two of their three meetings this season, with the Snappers winning their most recent encounter
q Coffs Harbour Kart Racing Club is set for a big weekend of racing.
Late winner
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40 Lionesses finishing second, just ahead of the third-placed Eagles.
With ten minutes remaining in regulation, Bronte Wall found the equaliser, forcing the match into extra time.
After 109 minutes of intense finals football, it was Urunga captain Bre Martin who emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal to seal her side’s place in the Grand Final.
The Lionesses, however, aren't finished yet.
They’ll get another shot at the Grand Final, facing the Boambee Eagles, who triumphed 3-0 over Woolgoolga in the elimination round.
The two teams were separated by just three points in the table, with the
Going from the table, the Lionesses have the slight edge, but finals football is a different beast.
Boambee has goalmachine Kylie McDonald, the league’s top scorer with a staggering 27 goals this season.
McDonald is the red hot favourite for this year’s Golden Boot, leading secondplaced Kate Fry from Urunga by ten goals.
With home advantage, the Lionesses will host the Eagles on Friday, 5 September at 6:45pm, in what promises to be a classic.
The Grand Final will be played on Saturday, 13 September at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
women’s grand final.
24-20 in their Major Semi Final, which saw them earn grand final hosting rights.
The Pirates qualified for this year's grand final by beating the SCU Marlins 30-26 in their Preliminary Final in Port Macquarie.
The Coffs Harbour
Snappers and Port Macquarie Pirates will also face off in the reserve grade grand final.
The Snappers won through to this year’s season decider after beating the Kempsey Cannonballs 15-10 to win
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Kart Racing
Club is set to host Australia’s best drivers this weekend.
The club is ready to host Round 5 of the Australian Kart Championship, over three big days of racing from Friday, 5 September to Sunday, 7 September.
It’s the second straight year that Coffs Harbour
has hosted a round of the Championship, with the city to host the final round of this year's Championship.
The SP Tools Australian Kart Championship is the premier karting championship in the Southern Hemisphere.
Contested across five rounds throughout four states of Australia, the Australian Kart Championship attracts
their Preliminary Final.
The Pirates beat the Snappers 21-17 in their most recent encounter, which saw the Pirates earn a spot in the grand final.
The Coffs Harbour Snappers and Grafton Redmen clash in the
The Redmen earned a grand final spot with a 22-0 win against the Port Macquarie Pirates in their Preliminary Final.
The Snappers women had a 12-7 win against the Redmen in the first week of finals, which saw the Snappers progress to the grand final.
the best drivers from across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia to compete for the honour of being crowned Australian Champion in their respective class.
Previous season champions and round winners throughout the history of the Australian Kart Championship have graduated into other forms of
motorsport and had success throughout the world.
Having been formerly known as the Australian CIK Championship and the CIK Stars of Karting, the Australian Kart Championship was born in 2015 and expanded to incorporate the National Championships for a wide variety of classes to cater for the Australian karting community.
q Traditional Shotokan Karate Coffs Harbour Club members
Allyson Tracey, William Ching, Shannon Robinson, Sam Staford, James Ryan, Andrew Hall (middle) Amelia, Chloe, and Eleanor (front) at the Queensland Titles.
q Urunga captain Bre Martin scored the winning goal in extra time.
Premierships decided
By Aiden BURGESS
AFL North Coast’s best junior teams have been crowned after winning premierships during their grand final day at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Bellingen Bulldogs Youth Girls 17s capped off a tremendous undefeated season with a premiership win, accounting for the Northern Beaches Blues by 3.20 (38) to 2.0 (12).
The premiership win was the Bulldogs fourth in
a row in the Youth Girls 17s competition.
The Port Macquarie Magpies Under 16s Boys capped off their own undefeated season with a premiership win, smashing the Sawtell/Toormina Saints by 15.13 (103) to 4.1 (25).
The Nambucca Valley Lions Youth Girls 15s team capped off a super season undefeated, winning their premiership with a 7.6 (48) to 4.11 (35) victory against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints.
The Port Macquarie Flyers
won the Under 14s Mixed premiership, accounting for the Port Macquarie Swoopers 9.11 (65) to 5.7 (37).
The Northern Beaches Blues won the Youth Girls 13s premiership, triumphing in the grand final by 3.12 (30) to 2.1 (13) against the North Coffs Kangaroos.
The Port Macquarie Magpies won the flag in the Under 12s Mixed, becoming premiers after a 6.13 (49) to 6.4 (40) victory against Northern Beaches Blues (White).
Panthers prepare for long-awaited grand final
By Aiden BURGESS
THE SAWTELL Panthers are preparing for a game that’s been 14 years in the making.
The Panthers are set to play in their first Group 2 First Grade grand final since 2011, which was also their last
premiership win. They are due to meet a familiar foe in the Nambucca Roosters, who they played in their last grand final appearance.
After more than a decade’s absence from the big game, Panthers president Colin
Fogarty expressed how much it meant to return to a grand final, considering the position of the club just a few years ago.
“It means everything to the club at the moment,” he said.
“We started off with no
Fernmount athlete wins gold
By Aiden BURGESS
PETER Allison has returned home with a swag of medals from the Surf Life Saving Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Adelaide.
The Fernmount resident won five gold medals, and broke two Australian records and one world record in an outstanding meet.
The 78-year-old proved once again to be one of the best of his age in the world, after previous medal winning performances on the world
By Janet O’DOWD
26/8 MEDLEY
Mark Wallis 41, David Knudsen 39, Gary Reynolds 38, James Murdoch 37c/b. Balls to 33c/b. NTP 7 A: David Knudsen, B: Paul Rowe (pro pin), C: Justin O'Neill
27/8 Stroke & Putting
A: Lee Stewart 74, Sharon
and national stage.
Held at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre in August, the National Championships attracted over 400 competitors whose ages ranged from 75yrs-plus to under 12s.
These life savers represented over 60 clubs from across the nation and overseas.
Peter began the meet by winning the gold medal in the 75yrs+ 100m obstacle race, and shortly afterwards combined with Kurrawa SLSC
Shipman 77. B: Hermie Maguire 74, Maureen Ryan 80 c/b. C: Lynda Wood 76, Paula Sercombe 81c/b. Balls to 81c/b. Putting A: Wendy Mason, B: Hermie Maguire, C: Christine Veerhuis. Pro pin 7 Annie Waters. Medal Of Medals Sharon Shipman
28/8 Play 9 David Knudsen 18. Balls to 16c/b
29/8 Medley Stableford Lochie Smith 31, John Gordon 29c/b
team mate Phil Dutton to contest the 70yrs+ line throw relay.
The pair have held the 60yrs+ Australian record of 16.94 seconds since 2019, and didn’t disappoint by smashing the national 70yrs+ record by 7.13 seconds, recording a winning time of 18.45 seconds.
Whilst the pair won gold in this event at last year's World Life Saving Championships in a time of 18.93 seconds, they bettered that world record time by 0.48 seconds to record a new Australian and World record time, which is to be ratified in September by the world
30/8 4 Man Ambrose David Knudsen, Brendan Barnes, Lochie Smith & Joshua Ives 57.125. Rohan McIntosh, Nathan Clark, Danny Hill & Phil Klaus
Sawtell RSL Snooker Club By
Ken MASON
TUESDAY
money and only 13 players a week out from a comp four years ago.
“We thought we’d give it a go, and we took the field and got flogged for two years.
“The committee worked hard and we made an investment on two or three players, and we’ve turned the club right around.
“To come from not winning a game for two years to making a grand final, it’s a great story, and it's an inspiration for any country club that’s doing it tough - you can turn things around in a couple of years.
“Having good local juniors is the most important thing, and we have nine local juniors playing in the First Grade grand final, and that’s our heart and soul right there.”
Playing in just his second
governing body.
Day two of the Championships saw Peter win the 75yrs+ 100m manikin tow with fins, followed by his Australian record-breaking time of 1.07.32 in winning the 75yrs+ 50m manikin carry.
Peter won gold again on day three, this time in the 75yrs+ 100m manikin carry with fins.
In three four-person 200 yrs+ relay events, he was part of a team with three other club mates who recorded 7th, 5th, and 5th placings in the finals of the 4x50m obstacle race, the 4x25m manikin carry, and the 4x50m medley.
Peter Allison is set to return to Adelaide for next year’s Surf Life Saving Australian Pool Rescue Championships.
57.625. Balls to 61c/b. NTP 7 A: Neil McCarthy, B: Alistair Lane, C: Bill Hobbs. NTP 11 A: Paul McHugh, B: Alistair Lane (pro pin), C: Allan Winney
Main Draw
Winners: - David McCarthy - R/U - John Cornell
Consolation
Winners: - Dave Lewis - R/U - Zac Cowled
season for the Panthers, newly re-signed captain-coach Sam Johnstone can plainly see how much a grand final berth meant to the local community.
“You have people crying after just making it, and that sort of gets to you and touches you,” he said.
“You can see what it means to the whole community, not just the team, but for the juniors and the committee.
“And people down the street are stopping you and saying congratulations and they don’t even know you, so you can tell what it means to the town and the community, and now we’re just focused on finishing that last job.”
had helped to turn things around in recent years.
“At the moment the club’s got a really strong committee, and is strong player, supporter, and sponsor wise,” he said.
“You take four years ago, we didn’t even have a football side, and we’ve gone from having no team to making a First Grade grand final.
“It just goes to show the culture that we have at this club, and we’re just a closeknit club and we’ve proven that over the last couple of years.”
SPORT RESULTS
Ladies Stableford Hermie Maguire 29 Freeforall Brenda Connors 21, Lee Stewart 18. 4 Ball Draw Elaine Everitt &
Former Panthers premiership player and life member Col Adams said the club’s culture
Starters Ladies Marlene Starr 20w/c/b, Jean Beby 20 Men John Gordon 19w/c/b, Cliff Hutchings 19c/b
Joy Lawrence. Saturday Sal Chris Anderson. Saturday Sam Lee Stewart. NTP Lee Stewart. 5 pointer Linda Rankin on 5th
q The Northern Beaches Blues Youth Girls 13s celebrate their premiership win.
q Sawtell Panthers president Colin Fogarty and treasurer Rob Collins welcome captain-coach Sam Johnstone for another season, as the club prepares to play in this year’s grand final.
q Peter Allison [centre] flanked by Kurrawa Surf Life Saving Club team mates James Callaghan and Joe Alaimo at the National Surf Life Saving Pool Rescue Championships in Adelaide.
COFFS
Coffs Harbour Ladies Golf Results
By Leah RAY
TUESDAY 26th AUGUST
4BBB STABLEFORD OVERALL
WINNERS 1. Jan Silvy & Brenda Fane 21 2. Robyn Walsh & Kaye
MNC Cross Country
By Peter BERRINGTON
END of Season Relays, Sunday 31 August 2025 - Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary
2km RELAY RESULTS: Team Black (handicap 19 sec) - Kweller Happ, Astin Nuttall, Ben Happ, Patrick May, Patrick Happ, Chloe Woodgate, 57:36, 1; Team Grey (handicap 15 sec) - Mark Bennington, Neil Burgess, Greg Crowe, Thomas Feain, Kane Woodgate, Keith Williams, 58:00, 2; Team Orange (handicap 19 sec) - Lennox Bennington, Reuben Wong, Emerald Fidge, Skyla Petersen, Tegan Van Hoeck, Vicky McClure, 58:39, 3; Team Green (no handicap) - Poppy Barclay, Sam Peck, Clara Philip, Ella Petrohelos, Penny Burgess, Ellie Luhr, 58:58, 4; Team Lime
Park Beach Men's Bowling Club
By Todd BROWN
OPEN Triples Tuesday 26 August 2025
T Swinburne, C Domjohn, K Morrison d S Clouten, A McKee, T Wisley 25 - 21
T Brown, J Clarke, S Jones d M Cutts, J Kennedy, J Murtas 21 - 18
J Jones, J Swan d B Jones, L Morris 25 - 13
S Ward, J Thorn, D Condon d K Elliott, N Nelson, G Hinsley 22 - 9
Park Beach Women's Bowls Club
By Anne ORR
FINALS for Major and Minor Consistency were played on Wednesday 27.8.25. Two wonderful games of draw bowls. Mandi Monck def Judy Monks in the Major Singles and Debbie Doyle def Denise Walsh in the Sawtell Bowls Results
By Geoff HAMPSON
MONDAY Afternoon Bowls
25/8/25
R Avery, L Kratz, K Garth DEF R Hampson, N Elford, C Christian
J Smith, P Roach, L Mitchell DEF J Chapman, L Read, K Taylor
S Fleming, D Garth, G Hampson DEF E Korchma, P Day, D Anderson
K Mason, J Cherne, B Tremayne DEF G Nicholls, S Kennedy, A Day
J Fleming, G Hinsley DEF G Davidson, B Connors
B Eden, W Smith DEF K Lewis, D Ryan
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls
26/8/25
Stanton 20 NTPs - 3rd hole - Jo Foggiato, Lin Kildea, 6th - Leanne
(handicap 15 sec) - Neil Griffin, Toby Fidge, Sarah Morgan, Lara Karrasch, Florence Van Hoeck, Oaklei Nuttall, 59:02, 5; Team Light Blue (handicap 16 sec)
- Matt Evans, Elize Strydom, Lucas Perez, Harvey Griffin, Sara Bergen, Laura Tarran, 59:04, 6; Team Hot Pink (handicap 33 sec)
- James Karrasch, Leo Tarran, Anika Bates, Mel Brodie, Sara Evans, Archie Feain, 59:05, 7; Team Purple (handicap 11 sec)
- Nate Cahill, Leon Petrohelos, Enzo Perez, Ziggy Walker, Quinn Woodgate, Sue Claughton, 59:27, 8; Team Yellow (handicap 19 sec) - Hugh Morgan, Bruce Meder, Josie Fidge, Kalani Vigors, Miriam Johnson, Rebecca Ridges, 59:31, 9; Team Red (handicap 8 sec)Kyle McIntosh, Lacey Van Hoeck, Alexander Jacquin, Lola Barclay, Iggi Nuttall, Steve Thompson, 60:40, 10; Team White (handicap
D Francis, D Garner, B Garner d J McLeod, C Hansen, D Hull 20 - 14
R Coffey, J Slater d C Ryan, J Feenstra 26 - 20
G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campbell d D Stirton, R Heinrich, L Boekmaan 22 - 17
M Finn, R Douglas, G Crapper d S Kindred, P Lawrence, K Kaaden 25 - 17
W Grimshaw, J Robinson, C Jones d M England, E Kidd, C England 26 - 16
A Worboys, R Jupp, P Rambow d K Bienefelt, AM Taylor, G Brewis 28 - 21
Minor Singles. Congratulations to the winners and runnersup.
Social Bowls Wednesday 27.8.25. K Elliott, J Rodwell, J Alford, A Orr def K Elliott, B Bodel, P Garner, C O'Dwyer 25-12; M England, E Kidd, C Garrett def V Maher, S Betts, J Pearce-Kennedy 23-20; A McConachy, J Kennedy, R DeMeio def M Webb, D
C Dodds, L Savage, J Townsend DEF N Elford, J Wheeler, A Day
S Crapper, D Garth, N Foy DEF M Friend, G Brabender, L North
J Fleming, H Dodd, L Kratz, S Shewan DEF J Fleming, J Poyntz, F Sharpe, D Tree
R Cook, M Baguley, M Sharman DEF B Connors, N Feltrin, B Eden
G Pickard, H Muir, T Goninan DEF M McDonald, C Veerhuis, D Grebert
WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 27/8/25
N Stahlhut, W Vaughn, J Townsend DEF D Isaac, J Cook, T Hodgson
R Mclennan, S Wilkinson, P Warby DEF B Fitzpatrick, B Clugston, R Williams
SPORT RESULTS
Yvonne Avery & Karen Brown & Lynda Butler & Helen Rhodes
6 sec) - Nick Murray, Emma Sandes, Matthew McAleer, Kieren Ward, Violet Wong, Tim Karrasch, 60:49, 11; Team Maroon (handicap 17 sec) - Edison Happ, Willow Nuttall, Felicity Bates, Russell Crane, River Woodgate, Dianne Vigors, 61:27, 12; Team Blue (handicap 25 sec) - Oliver Philip, Sophie Van Hoeck, Summer Bates, Marcel Philip, Jack Duncan, Kumsal Gozeloglu, 63:31, 13.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS: (Male) - Kyle McIntosh 6:18, 1; Nate Cahill 6:48, 2; Kweller Happ 7:11, 3; Hugh Morgan 7:16, 4; James Karrasch 7:22, 5; Nick Murray 7:24, 6; Lennox Bennington 7:43, 7; Oliver Philip 7:45, 8; Neil Griffin 7:45, 9; Edison Happ 7:46, 10; Leo Tarran 7:56, 11; Reuben Wong 7:59, 12; Matt Evans 8:01, 13; Mark Bennington 8:05, 14; Sam Peck 8:06, 15;
C Williamson, R Lane, G Stanford d A Stone, P Elliott, P Lilly 24 - 18
P Booth, J Dunn, M Berube d B Worboys, H Major, G Power 26 -22
D Catling, R Wisley, M Star d J Long, R Aitken, B Johns 21 - 15
Triples Thursday 28 August 2025
D Stirton, R Heinrich, L Boekmaan d C Llyod, G Meyer, I Rose 19 – 14
C Brian, C Weatherall, T Erskine d P North, P Booth, J Dunn 24 – 20
Futcher, L Clancy 209; N Barker, J Farrell, A Worboys def P Poulton, R Jupp, R Crestani 24-20; D Hargraves, S Hancock, Y Schmidt def A M Taylor, J Clarke, J Jones 22-21; E Denner, C McVicar, Y Hinsley def C Keogh, K Dunn, L Loadsman 27-8; C Venturi, C Domjohn, B Johns def F Gaunt, S Wilson, V Slater
C Christian, D Wheeler, E Nicolaou DEF G Fisher, D Frost, N Sillar
G Campbell, A Vivian, B Newling DEF P Paunovic, K Sharman, A Wagstaff
W Hall, D Anderson, A Berry DEF R Smithers, S Shaw, R Petterson
M Aujard, G Douglas, D Finlayson DEF I Muller, L Zecchinati, N Lamond
N Wong, R Cridge, G Dennys, DEF P Swain, I Maderic, M Jenkins
G Nichols, P Brabender, G Crapper DEF W Kellam, M Gibbons, A Jones
G Peel, T Mitchell, L Preston DEF J Chapman, G Hinsley, S Sillar
K Garth, R Poyntz, F Loveridge DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh
Leon Petrohelos 8:08, 16; Bruce Meder 8:19, 17; Astin Nuttall 8:48, 18; Neil Burgess 8:51, 19; Alexander Jacquin 8:53, 20; Greg Crowe 8:58, 21; Enzo Perez 9:00, 22; Matthew McAleer 9:02, 23; Kieren Ward 9:05, 24; Ben Happ 9:06, 25; Lucas Perez 9:09, 26; Ziggy Walker 9:11, 27; Toby Fidge 9:14, 28; Thomas Feain 9:32, 29; Patrick May 9:45, 30; Russell Crane 9:54, 31; Marcel Philip 10:29, 32; Harvey Griffin 10:34, 33; Kane Woodgate 10:48, 34; Patrick Happ 11:00, 35; River Woodgate 11:10, 36; Iggi Nuttall 11:14, 37; Keith Williams 11:30, 38; Jack Duncan 11:34, 39; Oaklei Nuttall 12:10, 40; Archie Feain 12:54, 41; Kumsal Gozeloglu 14:43, 42; Tim Karrasch 15:20, 43; Steve Thompson 16:14, 44.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS: (Female) - Poppy Barclay 7:32, 1; Lacey Van Hoeck 8:00, 2; Clara
T Cooper, G Stanford, P Rambow d J McLeod, G Wallace, P Newman 26 – 24
L Goodacre, W Moore, S Jones d J Kindred, G Kindred, S Kindred 19 – 10
R Felton, H Major, G Hinsley d D Burridge, P Wirth, M McCabe 25 – 10
D Catling, B Trottman, B Garner d B Jones, D Hull, M Berube 22 – 18
J Lowndes, K Johnson, K Morrison d B Worboys, M Finn, D Garner 22 – 10
J Eding, H Katala, G Colman d D Barnard, R
25-20. Social bowls Friday
29.8.25. M Cutts, J Murtas def P Elliott, T Brown 2311; Y Hinsley, G Hinsley def C Ryan, J Feensta 21-9; P Poulton, E Kidd def M England, C England 14-13; D Hargraves, Y Schmidt def C Venturi, L Clancy 16-15; R Jupp, M Monck def C McVicar, N McVicar 21-11; S Bailey, D Walsh
A Lavell, M Cutts, B Biddle, B Blight DEF B Pemberton, B Martin, J Murtas, P Collins
N McClelland, J Urge, A Sorbello DEF P Roach, D Bond, W Meadows
THURSDAY 28/8/25 Women’s Major Pairs
K Lewis, N Foy DEF N Elford, A Day
M Friend, T Karam DEF C Dodds, J Townsend
FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls
29/8/25
N Wong, D Wheeler, E Nicolaou, DEF J Brown, J Smithers, R Morris
J Poyntz, D Garth, K Garth DEF J Urge, L Preston, T Karam
A Lavell, M Bagley DEF A Jones, W Meadows
K Lowry, L Feltrin, J
Hilliar, 26th - Maureen Franklin, Sue Seaton SATURDAY 30th
Philip 8:39, 3; Elize Strydom 8:45, 4; Emma Sandes 8:51, 5; Josie Fidge 8:53, 6; Sophie Van Hoeck 9:01, 7; Ella Petrohelos 9:03, 8; Sarah Morgan 9:16, 9; Lara Karrasch 9:21, 10; Emerald Fidge 9:30, 11; Anika Bates 9:31, 12; Kalani Vigors 9:34, 13; Summer Bates 9:34, 14; Willow Nuttall 9:35, 15; Skyla Petersen 9:37, 16; Felicity Bates 9:41, 17; Mel Brodie 9:43, 18; Lola Barclay 9:54, 19; Tegan Van Hoeck 10:27, 20; Sara Bergen 10:59, 21; Florence Van Hoeck 11:00, 22; Violet Wong 11:01, 23; Miriam Johnson 11:05, 24; Sara Evans 11:08, 25; Penny Burgess 11:09, 26; Laura Tarran 11:20, 27; Chloe Woodgate 11:27, 28; Quinn Woodgate 11:55, 29; Dianne Vigors 12:55, 30; Vicky McClure 13:04, 31; Rebecca Ridges 14:05, 32; Sue Claughton 14:13, 33; Ellie Luhr 14:30, 34.
Bennell, G Pallister 19 – 13 W Grimshaw, J Robinson, R Kelly d P Elliott, P Lilly, R Douglas 20 – 14
P Woodsell, P Toy, L Morris d M Hopes, G McInerney, M Hodge 21 – 12
G Power, J Long, R Aitken d G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campell 23 – 21
J Polk, N Nelson, K Kaaden, P Evans d R Orten, J Bishop, R Wisley, S Morris 15 – 14 T Lainchbury, P Host, B Edwards, R Harris d S McCudden, N Dean, T McLean, S Bailey 24 – 8
def S Hancock, T Aarts 24-11; J Slater, S Hamilton def Col Cutt, R Coffey 26-6; G Deffey, D Lindner def J Barker, M Starr 24-8; A Stone, M Berude def F Gaunt B Edward 26-20; A Worboys, L Loadsman def D Futcher, R Lane 14-11; J Kennedy, C Keogh def K Elliott, R DeMeio 27-9; D Francis, S Crawford def J Jones, B Jones 31-8.
Townsend DEF G Brabender Poyntz, P Brabender
N Kotrozos, J Oates, R Williams DEF P Day, G Hampson, P Roach
B Hamilton, J Wills, D Hyde DEF G Staunton- Latimer, R Stirling, B Briddle
R Avery, R Schofield, G Bracken DEF H Muir J Chapman, W Kellam
P Paunovic,, C Christian A Berry DEF G Douglas, S Shewan, D Finlayson
J Richie, D Holland, B Blight DEF G Burns, A Day, B Fitzpatrick W Vaughn, A Wagstaff, D Anderson DEF G Fisher, S Sillar
D Frost
T Brooks, R Cridge, A Taylor DEF Jed Grebert, Joe Grebert, D Grebert
Real Estate
Toormina Real Estate
URUNGA/BELLINGEN
IGA Supermarket
Spar Supermarket Urunga
Foodworks Urunga
Urunga Bowling Club
Welcome Dental Urunga
Lindsay’s Oysters
Kombu Wholefoods
Fermount Fire Station
Ray White Real Estate
Bellingen Pet & Vet Supplies
Bellingen Golf Club
Cardows Urunga
CEX Woolgoolga Social Lawn Bowls Results
By Sue BRACHER
TUESDAY 26/8 25 (Social Pairs).
Rink 1: N Wood, R Bennell (D) D Hodge, S Barnard. Rink 2: D Washfold, S Dodd, (D) R Shaw, P Wroe. Rink 3: J Mig, J Martin, (D) S Noad, J Evan’s. Rink 4: R Westbrook, L Burgess (D) W Rice, S Rice. Rink 5: A Plain, B Merchant (D) M Hodge, R Ryan. Rink 6: J McKellar, L Carroll (D) J Wilcox, M Hopes.
Urunga Men's Veterans Golf
By Ross HARDAKER
SEPTEMBER 1
Coffs Harbour Bridge Results
By Nerellyn MITCHELL
JULY 21st - A NS B Edwards, B Salisbury; EW A Anderson, D Anderson - B NS R Levy, J Cowles; EW T Ward, S Paff
July 22nd - P Jonutz, H Eyers; J Bryant, N Mitchell
July 23d - NS H Pitt, R Roark; EW H Eyers, M Jil Hosie
July 25th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW J Stimpson, G Battershell
July 26th - NS R Roark, F
Coffs Harbour District Darts
By Ray BEASLEY
SAWTELL RSL Club
Winter Comp
Monday 25 August Fluke Shots def Bad Habbits 5-0 Bull Finish def Warriors
Coffs Harbour Golf Club
By Vicki SILVER
MONDAY Vets 1st September
2025
48 members and visitors played a single stableford 9
Coffs Table Tennis Results
By Margaret ILES
FRIDAY 29th August, 2025 Division 1
Reece Baker d Tim Garrad 3/0, Troy Prystasz d Lachlan Dierkx 3/0, Paul Hendriks d George Ruaporo 3/1, Reece Baker d Paul Hendriks 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d George Ruaporo 3/0, Troy Prystasz d Tim
Coffs CEX Social Golf Results
By Steve ROBINSON
31 AUGUST 2025 Coffs CEX Social Golf Club
Mid North Coast Veteran Golfers Association
By Colin CUTT
TUESDAY , 26th August, 54 MNC
SPORT RESULTS
Rink 10: J Hurrell, D Barnard (D) C Nightingale, K Costelloe. Rink 11: G Marsh, R March (D) L Walsh, G McInerney. Rink 12: T McKenzie, P Buck (D) Trevor M J Gibbins. Rink 13: H Shultz J Taylor (D) H Pallister, G Pallister. Wednesday 27/8/25: ( Wanderers) Rink 1: S Oliver, I Brien, G Burgess (D) M Lambert, B Pendra, P Jones. Rink 2: T Morrison, G Marsh, R Marsh.(D) K Dunstone, B Rennie, P Stirling. Rink 3: J Taylor, M Mulligan (D) P Hatton, S Rice. Rink
2nd round of Club
Championships
Great roll up today guys, with 34 starters turning out on a beautiful spring morning.
Today's winner John Anselmi
Gaunt; EW J Archer, P Quinlan
July 28th - A NS J Burrows; H Murray; EW R Rutter, P Quinlan - B NS R Levy, A Barrow; EW B Butler, M Pailthorpe
July 29th - N McIvor, D Featherstone
July 30th - NS J Bryant, B Salisbury; EW T Cooper, J Burrows
Aug 1st - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW A Anderson, D Anderson
Aug 2nd - NS R Roark, F Gaunt; EW L Edsall, R Levy
Aug 4th - L Smith Team
Aug 5th - D McGuiness, M Jil
5-4
DILLIGAF def Who
Darted 8-1
Surgical Steel def Thunderstruck 5-4
100s
Hannah (1)
Karen H (1)
Kelly (2)
Asttan (1)
Ben (1)
hole competition today, resulting as follows:
Gents Winners:
John Delany 22
David Turnbull 21
Roger Martin 20
Noel Frame 19
Ball Comp:
Mark Cooney 18 c/b
Garrad 3/1, Reece Baker d Troy Prystasz 3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d Paul Hendriks 3/1, George Ruaporo d Tim Garrad 3/2, Reece Baker d George Ruaporo 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Tim Garrad 3/1, Paul Hendriks d Troy Prystasz 3/2, Reece Baker d Lachlan Dierkx 3/1, Troy Prystasz d George Ruaporo 3/1, Tim Garrad d Paul Hendriks 3/2. WINNER: Reece Baker from Troy Prystasz.
played on Sunday 31 August 2025 at Coffs Harbour, 4BBB Stableford – President’s Trophy.
Results were as follows:
Winner’s: Steve & Catherine Robinson (43pts).
Runner Up: Courtney Robinson
Veteran golfers competed in a single stableford at Macksville Golf Course.
4: N Wills, K Costelloe C Nightingale (D) T Collins, G Woolley, S Ferro. Rink 5: S Noad, R Carroll, J Evan’s (D) Bear, R Pillon, D Mason. Rink 6: L Burgess, R Westbrook, J Migg (D) Misty, Glenn, Kevin. Rink 7: J Hampstead, C Williams, G Cowling (D) J lynn, P Diamond, J Martin. Friday 29/8/25 ( three bowl pairs) Rink 1: N Haines, J Hampstead (D) J Lynn, P Diamond. Rink 2: Roz, R Thornton, (D) J Smith, C Nightingale. Rink 3: J Taylor, P Buck (D)
64 c/b, from Dennis Holmstrom, 3rd Bruce Parker 66. Run-down Arthur Hassett 67, Kim Michelsen 69, Peter Brotherton, Paul Bastick 71, Bob Jones, Brett Bosbach, Tom
Hosie
Aug 6th - ND L Power, M Rogers; EW D Hickie, N Williams
Aug 8th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW S Thorne, J Thorne
Aug 9th - NS L Coates, J Reid; EW W Rogers, B Hagsma
Aug 11th - A NS B Edwards, B Salisbury; B Johns, R Aitken - B NS B Ho, E Neil; EW A Anderson, D Anderson
Aug 13th - D O'Meara, P Griffin
Aug 16th - NS B Johns, R Aitken; EW E Colley, D Strachen
Aug 18th - NS C Tolley, B Herring; EW V Clouten, D McGuiness
Chris (2)
Craig C (1)
Craig S (1)
Dave C (1)
Dean (8)
Garry (1)
Paul (1)
Reg (4)
Ricky (2) Steve (1) High pegs
Trevor Bissett 18 c/b
John Miles 18
Ladies Winners: Trish Mackay 20
Lois Elworthy 19 c/b
Carlene Bath 19 c/b
Ros Frame 19
Ball Comp: Betty Snow 18 c/b
Group A (Division 1 & Division 2)
King McKie d Dominic Arjona 3/2, Sharee Templeton d Xavier Campbell 3/0, Terry Baker d Char Berglund 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Aiden Haigh 3/0. Division 2
King McKie d Nick Jankovic 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Terry Baker 3/2, Terry Baker d Nick Jankovic 3/1, King McKie d Sharee
& Matt Smith (39pts).
Ball Winners: Jose & Izzy Caravante (38), Dave & Denise Turnbull (38), Peter & Tyler Woods (37), Rick Furlan & Scott Croft (36).
NTP’s: Courtney Robinson, Izzy
Ylinen 39, 3rd runner-up Terry Noble 37 c/b.
NTP’s: 3rd Mick O’Brien, 8th Tony Grebert, 12th Paul Bonventi, 17th David Salvin. Ball run to 32 pts.
I Coltman, B Symes. Rink 4: P Cuttnss, S Dodd, (D) L Burgess, J Martin. Rink 5: Trevor T, Wally (D) Jo Burgess, K Costelloe.
Rink 6: S Noad, R Westbound ( D) T Morrison, R Mash. Rink 7: J Hurrell, H Katala (D) G Lane, G Martin. Rink 10: R Gurber, B Merchant (D) D Evan’s, J Evan’s. Rink 11: D Barnard, B Parker ( D) Jacque, L Carroll. Rink 12: A Plain, M Hodge (D) A Wroe, R Shaw. Rink 13: D Washfold, L Walsh (D) G Marsh, G Pallister. Rink 14: R Bennell, H Schultz (D) J Gibbins, N Wood.
Faulkner 72.
Bradmans Neil Richardson 89. NTPs 3rd Kim Michelsen, 9th Paul Bastick, 18th Loz Renshall. Longest Putt Andrew O'Keeffe. Slab Winner Alan Titley.
Aug 19th - D Feathersone, N McIvor
Aug 20th - NS H Pitt, R Roark; EW D Hickie, N Williams
Aug 22nd - NS N Williams, T Cooper; EW M Cotsell, R Irwin
Aug 25th - A NS L Power, J Leach; EW J Archer, B Brebner - B NS B Edwards, J Bryant; EW L Edsall, R Levy
Aug 26th - J Bryant, N Mitchell
Aug 27th - NS H Pitt, Roark; EW J Reid, H Blewitt
Aug 29th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW S Fox, A Fox
Aug 30th - NS B Johns, R Aitken; EW C Tolley, B Herring
Kelly (58)
Dean (52)
Leader Board
DILLIGAF 46
Bad Habbits 45
Fluke Shots 40
Bull Finish 39
Warriors 37
Surgical Steel 34
Thunderstruck 26
Who Darted 16
Lyn Whitelaw 18
Susan Maoine 17 c/b Nearest the Pins: 12th Hole Trish Mackay & John Delaney 15th Hole Kirsty Arthur & Norman Shannon. Next week is a 4BBB. Be kind to your partner!!
Templeton 3/0. WINNER: King McKie from Sharee Templeton. Division 3
Dominic Arjona d Aiden Haigh 3/1, Char Berglund d Xavier Campbell 3/0, Aiden Haigh d Xavier Campbell 3/0, Dominic Arjona d Char Berglund 3/1. WINNER: Dominic Arjona from Char Berglund.
Always looking for new players and members.
Caravante & Tyler Woods.
Chip In’s: Tyler Woods, Mitchell Howe, Denise Turnbull. Next Game is at Sawtell on Sunday 14 September 2025, 7.00am Tee Time with BBQ to follow after the game. All Welcome.
Jane was very loved by her family, both local and overseas. She will be greatly missed by her sister Anne, extended family
Katherine, Nadine, Ellie, Stephan and family and friends across Australia, Canada and the UK.
Aged 89 Years
Her Character And Adventurous Spirit Left A Mark On All Those Who Knew Her
A Private Cremation was held for Jane at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
A Celebration of Jane’s Life will be held in the near future to honour her and remember stories of her life.
Jane’s family wish to convey their sincere thanks to all staff at Coffs Harbour Legacy Nursing Home, for their care, kindness and love shown to Jane over the last few years. Your work has been greatly appreciated and valued.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
MacINTYRE
Alastair Lachlan
27th August 2025, passed peacefully at St. Joseph’s Aged Care, late of Coffs Harbour.
Aged 92 Years
Resting In God’s Arms
Alastair was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
2nd September 2025, passed away peacefully at RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village. Late of Raleigh. Neville will be fondly remembered by all those who knew him.
Aged 85 Years
“I Did It My Way”
As per Neville’s wishes a private cremation was held at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
A Memorial Service will be held for Neville at a date to be advised.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
CARR
Malcolm Erle ‘Mal’
2nd September 2025, peacefully at John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle. Late of Coffs Harbour. Loving father and father-in-law of Warren & Sharilyn (dec’d) and Graham & Justine. Cherished poppy of Jessica and Mackenzie.
Aged 78 Years
Always In Our Hearts
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Mal’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Thursday 11th September 2025 commencing at 10.00 am.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
FERENCZ
Magdalina ‘Maggie’
26th August 2025, passed away unexpectedly at home, late of Korora. Beloved mother and mother-in-law of Rebecca (dec’d) & Damien, Kim & Nathan and Cobey. Treasured oma of Noah, Liam and Penelope. Cherished friend of many.
Aged 68 Years
Reunited With Her Darling Bec
HILLER
Hildegard Barbara ‘Hilda’
1st September 2025, passed unexpectedly surrounded by her loving husband and children. Late of Bonville.
Dearly beloved wife of Siegfried. Loving mother of Michaela, Lisa, Chris and Barbara. Devoted oma of Sam, Josh, Ben, Chloe and Johnny.
Aged 77 Years
Lived Life To The Fullest
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Hilda’s Requiem Mass to be celebrated in Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, Sawtell on Wednesday 17th September 2025 commencing at 10.30 am, thence for interment in Coffs Harbour Historic Cemetery, Coffs Harbour. Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Maggie’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 5th September 2025 commencing at 10.00 am.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Funeral Notices
In Memory
John Leslie Arnett
Forever
Loving
Of The Area Coffs Coast & Nambucca Valley Full time
News Of The Area newspapers is looking for an Advertising Sales Representative to work for the Coffs Coast and Nambucca Valley News Of The Area publications.
The fantastic local role is available full-time or part-time, to ensure we appoint the right person for the position.
Whilst you are part of a great team bringing out the local newspaper each week, you would be working from home, so a suitable home-office setup is required.
The right person would be a proven sales professional. You might not have newspaper or media experience, however a track record within a sales environment is essential.
Your daily role is focused on finding and presenting to businesses who may use our newspapers to reach their customers.
You would require a driver’s licence, car and computer with reliable internet service.
An attractive base remuneration is offered, along with car allowance, internet allowance and great bonus structure. You will be provided with a business smartphone.
Applications can be made by emailing your resume, together with a Letter of Application, outlining why you would be the best person for this role.
Email: office@newsofthearea.com.au
Applications close: 5pm, 19th September 2025.
LOCALCLASSIFIEDS
DEADLINE: 12noon WEDNESDAYS
For Sale
BABY pram, 3 wheels, for two children. Excellent condition $99. 0415 981 605
BAMBOO wireless
keyboard. Something different. New in box. $35 Photos available 0490 161 119
DOOR Gym set new $50. Ph 0412 081 950
DOUBLE bed, white air lift, in box, new. $100 0415 981 605
ELDERY bed safety rail for seniors brand new in box $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
F&P 8.5kg washing machine in good condition. $150. 0429 447 686
BLOODSTONE work boots mens size 11 $50 0491 363 638
BODY Board, Manta Pro Comp Rail with leash, turns quick, Red/ Black, 44inch - 20 inch wide, VGC. $49. Ph 0417 471 225
18ft Jurgen 2012 Skygazer Caravan August 2026 rego Y20781 GVM 1680 Separate toilet and shower, two single beds full annex (new), well maintained inside & out, solar panels and dog fence. Parked in an enclosed garage 0417 049 723
Ultimate Off-road Family Caravan Snowy River Multi Terrain SRT22F Sleeps 5 - double bed plus 3 bunks. Like new plastic still on the bunks Well-equipped kitchen light filled spacious shower & bathroom TS82ZS. $79,900. Call Olivia 0424
Please visit Councils website to view the
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp 048
TRADESSERVICES
SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING
REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL & EAVE CLADDING
DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING MADE FROM COLORBOND SUPPLY ONLY OR SUPPLY AND INSTALL.
4 METHODS OF USE: FLUSH VERTICAL, FLUSH HORIZONTAL,
TRADESSERVICES
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ONTHEBOX
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR
ABC TV, 8pm
A sizzling summer soundscape and cinematography turn up the heat in this superb Aussie mystery, which has just two chapters left. In Sunday’s penultimate episode, Isabelle (Teresa Palmer, pictured) turns her attention to neighbour Barb (Catherine McClements). After offering to babysit for Essie (Philippa Northeast) and Ben (Tane Williams-Accra), Isabelle takes the opportunity to search Barb’s house for answers – but at the same time, Ange (Bella Heathcote) is rifling through hers. Both women make discoveries that set the stage for a bombshell finale next week.
FRIDAY, September 5
(PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)
Austin. (PG, R)
Silent Witness. (Malv, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
MONDAY
THE AMAZING RACE AUSTRALIA: CELEBRITY EDITION
TEN, 7.30pm
Thirteen teams of celebrities and their loved ones meet host Beau Ryan at the top of the world – that is, the Shanti Stupa temple in Pohkara, Nepal – but they won’t be there for long. The most amazing experience of their lives awaits, but so do some seriously challenging tasks that will put their dearest relationships to the test. It’s especially fun to see how famous parents fare under pressure. Lindy Klim, Brendan Fevola and Gretel Killeen are participating with their respective daughters, Stella (pictured right, with mum Lindy), Leni and Epiphany. Humour, honesty and butting of heads are sure to ensue.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 The Good Ship Murder. (PGv) 8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. (Premiere) 9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PG) 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (Manv) 11.40 Pray For Blood. (Mal, R) 1.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.20 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 2.50 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 3.55 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WEDNESDAY
CODE OF SILENCE
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits an alpaca farm.
7.30 Football. AFL. Second qualifying final. Geelong v Brisbane Lions. From the MCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
1.35 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) 2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today.
This compelling British crime thriller not only expertly draws viewers into the high-stakes world of undercover police work but also provides an authentic glimpse into the lived experience of the deaf community. Rose Ayling-Ellis (pictured) plays Alison Brooks, a hearingimpaired canteen worker who is recruited by detectives for a covert operation because of her exceptional ability to read lips. As she helps surveil a criminal gang planning a robbery, Alison is soon swept up by the thrill of her increasingly dangerous job. However, things get even more complicated when she begins to fall for Liam (Kieron Moore), a soulful hacker who’s helping the crooks pull off their jewel heist.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Sydney Roosters v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Sydney Roosters versus South Sydney Rabbitohs match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Rush Hour 3. (2007, Msv, R) Lee and Carter try to protect a French woman. Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker.
12.35 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)
At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa, R) 1.25 Professor T. (Ma, R) 2.15 I, Jack Wright. (Mlv, R)
3.00 Inside Our Minds. (PG, R)
5.00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Australian Story: Say My Name – Louisa Ioannidis Pt 1. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Van Life Pt 1. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (R) A painting disappears.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mav, R) Barnaby and Winter investigate when the annual Midsomer Scarecrow Festival takes a grisly turn.
10.00 The Family Next Door. (Ml, R) Fran struggles with her husband’s depression.
10.50 I, Jack Wright. (Mlv, R) 11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids Baking Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 13. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 10.00 Blue Water Safari. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Going Places. (R) 4.00 The Day The Rock Star Died. (PGd, R) 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 13. H’lights. 5.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 5.35 Hitler: A Life In Pictures. (PGa, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys. (PGn)
8.30 A Royal Residence: Althorp House.
9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PGa, R)
10.15 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
2.35 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (PGaw, R)
3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SUNDAY, September 7
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 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 Australia. (R) 2.30 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.20 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Pacific. (PG, R) 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. (PG)
6.05 Growing Up Jewish.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Austin. (PG)
8.00 The Family Next Door. (Ml)
8.50 I, Jack Wright. (Mal) DCI Morgan’s investigation focuses in on the Wright family and their associates.
9.35 MOVIE: Sherpa. (2015, Mal, R) Looks at climbing Everest from the Sherpas’ point of view. Russell Brice. 11.10 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (Mal, R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
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6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Football. AFL. Second qualifying final. Fremantle v Gold Coast Suns.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.
11.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
12.35 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) Georgina searches for answers.
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
7TWO (62)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Blue Water Safari. (PGal, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point. (R) 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike C’ship. Round 6. 4.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 14. H’lights. 5.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 5.35 Hitler: A Life In Pictures. (PGa, R) 6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Wknd. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Charter Keck Cramer Moir Stakes Day and Chelmsford Stakes Day. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Football. AFL. Second elimination final. GWS Giants v Hawthorn.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Titanic: Secrets Of The Shipwreck. (Premiere, PG)
8.25 Titanic In Colour. (PGa, R)
9.20 Monster: The Mystery Of Loch Ness. (PG, R)
10.20 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Final, Mav, R)
12.40 Women Who Rock. (Ml, R)
2.45 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (R)
3.45 Hugh’s Wild West. (R)
4.50 China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 APAC Weekly.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 NRLW Wrap. (PG) 12.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. St George Illawarra Dragons v North Queensland Cowboys. 2.35 Rugby Union. The Rugby C’ship. Australia v Argentina. 4.30 Test Rugby: Australia v Argentina Post-Match. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. (PG)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Canterbury Bulldogs v Cronulla Sharks.
9.25 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match.
10.00 MOVIE: American Assassin. (2017, MA15+lv, R)
12.05 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.00 Customs. (PG, R)
1.30 Rugby Union. Women’s Rugby World Cup. Pool A. Australia v England.
4.15 Garden Gurus Moments. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R)
7.30 Selling Houses Australia. Rob and Robyn try to sell their property in Penola. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A specialist critical care paramedic responds to a head-on collision that has left a driver trapped in their car.
9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (l, R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.
10.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. (PGal, R) 11.30 FBI: International. (Ma, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Wknd. (PG) 12.00 Behind Behani. (PGal, R) 12.30 To Be Advised. 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger.
8.50 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.50 24 Hours In Police Custody: Frequent Flyers. (MA15+adl, R) Authorities search for a criminal couple.
10.50 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Buried Alive. (MA15+av, R)
12.00 Jamestown. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 8.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.05 Abbott Elementary. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 12.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. New Zealand Warriors v Brisbane Broncos. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. Newcastle Knights v Gold
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 The Block. (PGl)
8.35 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.35 9News Late.
10.05 A Killer Makes A Call: A Killer In Accounts. (MA15+av)
11.05 The First 48. (Mal, R)
12.00 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R)
1.00 Our State On A Plate.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 Fishing Australia. (R)
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Nashville. H’lights. 2.40 Explore. 2.45 Cards And Collectables Australia. 3.15 Big Rigs Of Oz. 3.45 Ski Rescue Down Under. 4.45 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge. 5.45 MOVIE: Show Dogs. (2018, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. (2008, PG)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Survivor: Australia V The World. (Final) Fourteen returning contestants head to Samoa. 8.55 Playing Gracie Darling. (Premiere, Mhlv) A child psychologist is haunted by an incident from her past, in which a friend disappeared following a séance. 9.55 FBI. (Mv, R) The team works to track down a killer. 10.55 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
DRAMA (51)
MONDAY, September 8
TV (2)
6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Teenage Boss. (R) 10.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mav, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 The Piano. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Contraption Masters. 9.25 The Crystal Maze. 10.15 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
(3)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.10 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 11.10 Rome: Rise Of Empire. 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.55 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 15. H’lights.
3.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 3.50 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 4.25 Curious Traveller. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
(32)
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Scrapper. (2023, PG) 10.00 White Tiger. (2012, M, Russian) Noon Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow. (1963, M, Italian) 2.10 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 4.00 Sunflower. (1970, PG, Italian) 6.00 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 7.50 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.30 Darkland. (2017, MA15+, Danish) 11.35 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, September 9
TV (2)
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.05 Growing Up Jewish. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 I, Jack Wright. (Mal, R) 1.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00
7.30 7.30.
Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Return, Ml) 9.00 Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line. (Ml, R)
10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Four Corners. (R) 12.00 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.15 Hawke: The Larrikin And The Leader. (Final, PG, R) 1.15 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 2.05 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Deadly 60. 9.10 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 10.05 Merlin. 10.50
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Short History Of The English Garden. (R) 10.00 Curious Traveller. (R) 10.55 Rome: Rise Of Empire. (PGav) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.55 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Every Family Has A Secret. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00
(3)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Secret World Of Snacks. (R)
11.25 Screw. (Premiere, Mals) 1.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.05 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGaw, R) 2.40 Hugh’s Wild West. (PG, R) 3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) The competition heads to Adelaide.
9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Following his stint at the LAPD, Evers returns to the DA’s office where his past connects him to the investigation.
10.05 S.W.A.T. (Mv) The team hunts down a Chilean arms dealer.
11.05 The Agenda Setters.
12.05 Hooten & The Lady. (Mav)
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 The Block. (PGl)
8.45 100% Footy. (M) 9.45 9News Late.
10.15 Opal Hunters: Red Dirt Road Trip. (PGal)
11.15 Murder In The Family. (MA15+al, R) 12.05 Footy Classified. (Ml) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
(6)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) The competition continues in Logan, Queensland.
9.00 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv) Alice investigates her dog’s murder.
10.00 Tik Tok: Murders Gone Viral: The Killing Of Sania Khan. (Malv, R)
11.00 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.00 Fairly Legal. (Mav, 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 The Block.
6am Sunflower. (1970, PG, Italian) 8.05 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.00 Bob Trevino Likes It. (2024, M) 11.50 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 1.25pm Scrapper. (2023, PG) 2.55 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 4.45 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 7.30 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 10.55 Darkland: The Return. (2023, MA15+, Danish) 1.05am Speed Kills. (2018, M) 3.00 Late Programs.
DRAMA
DRAMA (51)
9GEM (82)
9GEM
FAMILY (22)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
ONTHEBOX
WEDNESDAY, September 10
FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifier. Ecuador v Argentina. 11.00 WorldWatch. 11.25 Always Listening. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 16. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 James May: Our Man In India. (PG) 8.30 DNA Journey. (Ml)
9.35 Code Of Silence. (Premiere, MA15+)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 COBRA. (Mal)
11.50 Vigil. (Mal, R)
2.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.50 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 3.20 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (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. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.10
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGa)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hamish McLachlan sits down with former West Coast Eagles champion Jeremy McGovern. 10.15 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. (PG) 11.15 Chicago Fire. (Return, Mav) 12.15 Imposters. (Madlsv, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
THURSDAY,
September 11
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 This Man’s Worth. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGavw, R) 2.55 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy!
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 9/11: One Day In America. (Premiere)
9.10 Rock Legends: David Bowie. (PG, R)
9.40 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Dopesick. (MA15+ad, R)
12.10 Blue Lights. (Malv, R)
2.10 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 3.00 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGav, R) 3.30 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Glassworker. Continued. (2024, PG, Urdu) 7.25 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 10.15 The Great Spirit. (2019, M, Italian) 12.20pm Full Time. (2021, M, French) 1.55 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 3.45 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 5.35 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 7.30 Death In Brunswick. (1991, M) 9.30 Lansky. (2021, MA15+) 11.45 No Man Of God. (2021, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.10 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 8.00 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 10.05 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 1.30pm The Movie Show. 2.05 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 4.55 The Movie Show. 5.30 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 7.25 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988, PG) 9.30 Goodfellas. (1990, MA15+) 12.15am All The Old Knives. (2022, MA15+) 2.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG) Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson. 9.30 Why Trains Crash. (PGa) Takes a look at a train crash in India.
(64) 7MATE (64)
By David WIGLEY
IN A thrilling extra-time encounter, the Urunga Raiders triumphed 2-1 over Coffs City United Lionesses to secure a spot in the HIT105.5 Women’s Premier League Grand Final.
Despite finishing as Premiers, six points clear at the top of the table, Urunga’s victory was far from a foregone conclusion.
The Women’s Premier League has seen the tightest competition in years, and just weeks earlier, the Lionesses had handed Urunga a 3-0 defeat during the regular season.
From the first whistle, it was clear this would be a highoctane affair.
Ally Gadd struck on the stroke of halftime to give the Lionesses a 1-0 advantage, sending them into the break with the lead.
But the Raiders weren’t done.
Late winner
q Urunga captain Bre Martin scored the winning goal in extra time.
