Coffs Coast News Of The Area 11 APRIL 2025

Positivity powers ocean swims

By Andrea FERRARI

IN a force of intergenerational positivity, over 500 people participated in the 29th Coffs Coast Ocean Swims (CCOS) on Sunday morning, 6 April, at Jetty Beach.

There were assisted swimmers and carers, youngsters in the 300m Junior Swim, all ages and abilities in the 600m race around the Jetty, and serious swimmers challenging themselves with the round-harbour 2km swim.

All showed nerve, excitement and a commitment to doing their best.

By Leigh WATSON

Andrea FERRARI 0410 067 966 andrea@newsofthearea.com.au

Andrew VIVIAN 0414 646 198 andrew@newsofthearea.com.au

NEWS

Mary KEILY 0476 603 944 mary@newsofthearea.com.au

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Positivity powers ocean swims

FROM Page 1

damage suffered by many local beaches over the past weeks, the organisers, Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club, were fortunate that the Ocean Swims in the harbour were not affected.

The event ran like clockwork in glorious conditions.

Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club’s Bruce McPhail said, “520 hardy souls, ranging in age from eight to 78, participated”.

“Most were more than happy to achieve their own personal goal in undertaking and completing the swim.”

Mr McPhail congratulated those swimmers who travelled from a distance, especially The Armidale School contingent, as well as the 52 “committed souls” who used their first swim, the 600m, as a warm-up for the 2km swim around the harbour.

While every swimmer was a winner, it was Abbie Yourell from Evans Head (27:54) and Saul Easman from Hydes Creek (25:48) who came out of the water first in both the 600m and 2000m.

An ocean swimmer since she was 10-yearsold, Abbie, now 18, told News Of The Area, “My race plan was to go out hard and try and catch anyone who was in front of me.”

First back in the 300m Junior Swim were Indi Banks from Safety Beach and Archie Peters

q They’re off in the women’s 600m race.

from Sawtell.

Racing for her 13th CCOS, Lorraine Booth, 78, was the oldest lady in the 600m event.

She achieved a time of 22:19.

“I feel fabulous and very happy to have accomplished it”, she told NOTA.

Getting lucky out of the water, Chris Grieve won the main random draw prize of two nights’ accommodation in an ocean view room at Charlesworth Bay Beach Resort.

Brooke

with

Results for the event can be found on the Sawtell SLSC webpage, sawtellsurfclub.com.au/ coffs-coast-swims/2025.

Also listed are the business houses and clubs who generously supported the event.

In her presentation to winners, Race Ambassador Brooke Hanson said that next year’s event will be “very special, being the 30th anniversary of the Coffs Coast Ocean Swims”.

q Placegetters in the male 600m race: Saul Easman 8:09, 1; Archie Peters 8:17, 2; Richie Goddard 8:26, 3 with Brooke Hanson.

Man charged over alleged attempted robbery

A MAN has been charged over an alleged attempted robbery near Coffs Harbour.

About 12.15am on Thursday 10 April, an on-duty officer attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District was travelling along the Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, when he observed a man allegedly dressed in a face covering entering a service station.

The man then allegedly demanded cash from the service

station attendant.

The officer intervened and arrested the 39-year-old man at the scene.

He was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station, where he was charged with "face blackened/disguised with intent commit indictable offence" and "demand property with menaces with intent to steal".

He was refused bail to appear before Coffs Harbour Local Court on Thursday 10 April.

q The first woman back in the 2km race.

q

Hanson

the first three women in the 600m, Abbie Yourell 8:36, Anthea Warne 8:43, and Zara Johnson 8:43.

CRISIS RESPONSE

FROM Page 1

gaps in how we support one of our most vulnerable groups - rough sleepersduring emergencies.

Despite best efforts from the community, unclear and delayed communication left many scrambling.

Only luck prevented a potential disaster.

A spokesperson for Homes NSW, which funds local homelessness services via the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), confirmed that the NSW State Emergency Service is the lead agency for safety advice, emergency alerts, and evacuation centres.

In a crisis, DCJ’s role is to pass this information on to its funded Specialist Homelessness Services.

Some outreach did occur ahead of the storm with these services sharing weather alerts, material aid, and evacuation information with rough sleepers.

However only DCJfunded services were looped in.

Key organisations like Pete’s Place, the main frontline service for rough sleepers in Coffs, were not included in any coordinated response.

Nor were the church

groups or community citizens who support homeless people yearround, and jumped in to provide extra emergency support at this time.

In regard to this broader collaboration, the Homes NSW spokesperson noted that services “should be encouraged to participate in their local community sector meetings”.

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said Council plays a response role only, taking direction from emergency services.

“We don’t lead in these situations… too many chiefs can muddle the message,” she said.

However, she acknowledged that communication around support for rough sleepers “could have been better”, and encouraged any organisation or individual who felt hindered by poor communication, to reach out.

Gurmesh Singh, Member for Coffs Harbour and Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, agreed that coordination could improve.

“Lessons are learned in every crisis,” he said, urging DCJ to share plans more widely so that all community services and

the public know what's happening.

Mr Singh said he was involved in various aspects of the overall crisis response, including consideration for rough sleepers.

Councillor Tony Judge, a longtime homelessness advocate, raised alarm about the risk to rough sleepers near Coffs Creek in the lead-up to the storm.

“Even without major flooding, tents were inundated, destroyed by wind, and disease risks from mosquitoes and leeches rose sharply.”

He praised the efforts of Pete’s Place, the Salvos, and local volunteers, but said the government and Council could have been more timely in their response and more generous.

“There was a missed opportunity to use Cavanbah Hall as emergency shelter - it’s close to where many rough sleepers live,” he said.

“We need to learn from this. I’ll be calling for a full review of Council’s response and steps to better prepare for future events.”

Though disaster was

q Many huddled in tents like these.

avoided this time, many in the community argue that Council should step up and take the lead in crisis planning for rough sleepers.

While Council’s

Homelessness Policy notes that federal and state bodies fund services, it also states that Council is “an important source of local understanding and leadership” in this space.

CORRECTION

NEWS Of The Area wishes to offer correction to information printed in our 4 April edition.

In the p8 story, ‘Woolgoolga pool motion raises governance questions’, it was stated that Cr Gurminder Saro’s amended motion on Woolgoolga pool was carried five votes to four.

In fact, the motion was carried six votes to three.

q Some rough sleepers had only makeshift protection.

Community steps in to help rough sleepers

By Leigh WATSON

THE recent bad weather caused by Cyclone Alfred saw the Coffs Harbour community step up with care and compassion for its most vulnerable residents - those experiencing homelessness.

While the city ultimately escaped major damage, numerous individuals and community groups expressed concern that not enough was being done to ensure the safety of rough sleepers.

Once again, it was those who have quietly supported the homeless for years who sprang into action, preparing meals, gathering blankets and swags, and delivering them directly to Pete’s Place and the Neighbourhood Centre.

Local businessman Troy Arvidson was one of them.

He’s long been involved in supporting rough sleepers and says the generosity on the day was overwhelming.

“People were donating swags, blankets [and] one lady even brought up a pile of lasagne and other homecooked dishes. Enough to feed people for three nights,” he said.

Behind the scenes,

individuals and groups were working with the Council, SES, and police.

But questions were raised about the adequacy of communication, planning, and the official response.

Some frontline services say information was confusing, delayed, and at times contradictory, with much of it playing out on social media rather than through formal channels.

One of the greatest concerns was for people sleeping in tents, particularly those behind the Community Village and along Coffs Creek near Carralls Gully.

Gai Newman, Team Leader of Pete’s Place - a

St Vincent de Paul dropin service for people experiencing homelessness - said communication was lacking.

“There were social media comments saying rough sleepers had been offered a place to stay, but I couldn’t confirm it,” she said.

“It was only via a Facebook post that I became aware the bottom level of the central carpark had been opened for people needing shelter.

“There was a lot of uncertainty.

“We couldn’t tell people what to expect or where to go.

“There was no designated evacuation point, and no toilets nearby if the weather

turned wild.

“The closest were at the skate park.”

Gail said many people were visibly anxious and quieter than usual.

Some relocated, but many stayed put.

“Their belongings are everything. Pets come first, then belongings. So people stay to protect them, whether it’s from a storm or theft.”

She also pointed out that homelessness isn't limited to the Coffs CBD.

“There are people sleeping rough in Sawtell, in cars and church doorways, and in Woolgoolga too.”

Andy Newman, who volunteers as Homeless Outreach Coordinator with

the Salvation Army, has been supporting rough sleepers for several years.

He echoed concerns about unclear information, including the last-minute decision to open the carpark for shelter.

“The only way we found out was through Facebook.

“There was no information on how people were meant to get there, or what provisions would be available; things like food, water, toilets, or blankets.”

In response, the Salvos decided to open up their church on the night the cyclone was expected to hit.

During their regular outreach drop-off, they found most of the usual 55 rough

sleepers still in their usual spots. Many were in tents, some were without.

“We also found people huddled under an awning in a sports field.

“There were elderly people, a couple of young teens, and people with mental illness.

“Their tents weren’t waterproof and some didn’t even have tents.

“If the cyclone had hit, trees could have fallen. They’d have been flooded. Then what?”

Very few people took up the offer of shelter, but advocates say a pre-planned, coordinated approach could have made all the difference.

q Salvos homeless coordinator Andrew Newman prepares food for rough sleepers.

q Community organisations like Pete’s Place provide support to local rough sleepers.

Councillor questions Mayor’s ad appearances

CITY of Coffs Harbour councillor Tony Judge has publicly questioned Mayor Nikki Williams over her appearance in video advertisements for Cowper MP and Nationals candidate Pat Conaghan ahead of the Federal Election.

Cr Judge, who represents Labor on council and has contested state elections for the party in the past, made the following statement at Council’s 27 March meeting.

“Madam Mayor, I note that you have appeared in at least two video advertisements for Pat Conaghan, the current Federal Member for Cowper,” Mr Judge said.

“In one of those videos the caption identifies you as the Mayor of the City of Coffs Harbour.

“When the Mayor speaks, she speaks on behalf of Council.

“That role is made clear in the Local Government Act.

“However, when you provided that testimonial in an election advertisement, you definitely were not speaking for me.

“I wish to make that crystal clear.

“I believe it is both inappropriate and damaging to Council and the community we represent for the Mayor to appear in a partisan political advertisement.

“You are our leader and spokesperson.

“It is a very different role to that of a Councillor and it comes with great responsibility.

“Council should be independent of State and Federal politics.

“It must be able to work effectively with any elected member and any elected government.

“Your actions have created a perception that Council is politically aligned. It has compromised our

independence.

“I ask that you seek to have the reference to you as Mayor of the City of Coffs Harbour removed from the advertisement and make it clear in future that you are not speaking on behalf of Council when you provide a party political testimonial or endorsement.”

In response, Mayor Williams said her appearance on the video was not an endorsement for Mr Conaghan.

“The only speaking I did in that (video) was to say that I am working with our local member.

“I don’t believe that I, at any point, as the City of Coffs Harbour, [said I] believe that people should vote a certain way.”

Mayor Williams also noted that “every single mayor in the electorate” had appeared in Mr Conaghan's video advertisements.

“It was actually about working with local members on jobs that they had had done.”

Nambucca teen enters Cowper race as Independent

Heads teenager

Zeke Daley has officially registered as an Independent candidate for Cowper in the 2025 Federal Election.

In a statement to media, Mr Daley said he brings a “fresh, community-driven voice” to the region’s political conversation.

Noting that he is not aligned to any political party or beholden to big donors, Mr Daley said he is standing for Cowper with a simple message: “It’s time for everyday locals to take the lead”.

“I’m taking a stand because I’ve seen how young people are left behind,” said Mr Daley, 18.

“The choices made today will directly impact the future

that young people like me will have to live with.

“I’m not here to promise the world, but to represent the Cowper constituents - to bring their voices into the room where decisions are made.”

Born and raised in Nambucca Heads, Mr Daley told NOTA he has seen firsthand the challenges facing regional communities, from housing affordability and poor telephone and internet service to youth mental health and underresourced local services.

He said his campaign is built on genuine engagement, grassroots action, and a strong commitment to listening and learning from the people of Cowper.

“I want politics to be something people feel they can trust again,” he said.

“It’s time to bring transparency and diversity to Canberra - not just lining the pockets of the big corporations and forgetting about the everyday Australians.”

Mr Daley’s website currently hosts policy statements on education and youth crime.

“The current education system is outdated with its system rooted in a model from the industrial revolution in the 20th century with standardised testing and rote learning,” his education policy reads.

“It does not meet the needs of the 21st century

workplace nor the current cohort of students with many students becoming disengaged.

“The current public education system is also underfunded, particularly in regional areas where there is a lack of choice, leading to further issues.”

Heise releases policy platform statements

INDEPENDENT candidate for Cowper Caz Heise is making her policy positions firmly known, releasing detailed statements on the health workforce crisis, aged care, domestic and family violence, and affordable housing in the past ten days.

A paper released on 3 April outlined a number of Ms Heise’s housing priorities, including Government

investment in social and affordable housing; stronger regulation of short-term rentals, reforming planning and zoning laws to allow more affordable homes to be built; and changing the tax incentive structure to ensure the houses being built meet the needs of our community, rather than property speculators.

She is also supportive of “innovative housing

models and community-led solutions”, such as community land trusts.

In terms of domestic and family violence, Ms Heise’s approach revolves around enhancing support services, providing community education and awareness, strengthening legal frameworks, improving collaboration with local organisations, and

strengthening mental health support for survivors.

On Monday, Ms Heise issued a “passionate call to action for the reform of the aged care system”.

“Working as a nurse and health executive, I’ve seen how we are failing our elders,” she said.

“The current aged care system in our region is in crisis - overstretched services,

underfunded programs, and underpaid workers leave our elders facing long waits and substandard conditions.”

She is calling for improved funding, greater staffing levels, and increased oversight and accountability to prevent provider wrongdoing.

In the health space, Ms Heise is calling for urgent, long-term action to train and retain healthcare

professionals.

Her recruitment plan focuses in part on the development of local training pathways, fee-free TAFE, and reduced HECS debt for healthcare workers.

The policy also highlights the need for affordable housing and childcare to allow healthcare workers to do their jobs.

NAMBUCCA

“There needs to be a shift in this area.

q Independent candidate for Cowper Zeke Daley.

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MP promises Sawtell pool funding

MEMBER for Cowper Pat

Conaghan has pledged $7 million to City of Coffs Harbour to complete upgrades to Sawtell Pool if the Coalition is successful at the 3 May Federal election.

Council was originally allocated $7,784,778 in 2021 through the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund towards the cost of redeveloping the Woolgoolga and Sawtell pools.

However, by October 2022, Council stated its projected budget for the works was just over $15.5m.

With a grant deadline of 31 December 2023, and no extension granted, Council eventually returned the funds, with then GM Natalia Cowley

citing “financial and resourcing constraints”.

The updated plans include an eight-lane 25m pool with an accessibility lane, learn to swim pool and splash zone for kids, as well as new community amenities.

“I’m pleased to see this highly anticipated project back on the priority list for the Sawtell and wider Coffs Harbour community,” Mr Conaghan said in a statement.

Attending the announcement with Mr

Service NSW is coming to

community

an accessible, modern facility that our community deserves”.

q Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams and Cowper MP Pat Conaghan announcing the funding alongside swimming coach Kim

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Conaghan, City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the funding is the “crucial first step in creating

Roach.

Rescued turtle ‘Nikki’ released

By Andrea FERRARI

AT noon last Saturday (6 April) “Nikki” the threefinned green sea turtle was released into the ocean off North Wall in Coffs Harbour. It had been brought back to health at the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (CCWS) after a near fatal entanglement 18 months ago.

CCWS carer Maicee Heterick led the release, assisted by City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki

Williams.

“Nikki” (the turtle) was rescued by another Nikki (the owner of Secret Garden Café at Garden Mania), who found it tangled up in a fishing line on Gallows Beach.

The turtle was covered in barnacles and two-thirds of its front flipper was missing, exposing a bone joint.

The fishing line was wrapped around its neck and body.

Immediate surgery was

too risky, so for the next four weeks “Nikki” was stabilised through regular dry docking, freshwater baths and swim tests, and by being fed lots of seafood.

“After surgery, ‘Nikki’ had to rebuild strength again before going into the pre-release habitat,” Maicee told News Of The Area.

“In that habitat is a current, which helps them to build up a lot of that muscle that was lost.

“It also helps to create competition between

the other turtles… as it encourages them to forage for [the] food we throw in for them every day.”

The decision to release a turtle is made in consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and CCWS management.

“We took extensive records every day of ‘Nikki's’ progress in swimming, eating, and general health and from that we made the decision together.”

City of Coffs Harbour EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

City of Coffs Harbour is currently seeking expressions of interest to fill committee vacancies.

Committees that are seeking members include:

• City Centre Masterplan Commitee

• Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee

• Positive Ageing Advisory Committee

• Sustainability Advisory Committee

• Australia Day Committee

• Ayrshire Park Facility Management Committee

Scan the QR code or visit the City website at coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/committeevacancies

“Nikki” is estimated to be a juvenile, around 10 to 15-years-old, but the turtle’s sex could not be determined.

If it turns out to be female, Tiga Cross from the Wildlife Sanctuary hopes she will return to the mainland when she is aged 30, to lay her own eggs; continuing the life cycle of this magnificent species.

And if “Nikki” is male, Tiga hopes he finds many females and contributes to breeding efforts to secure the future of his species.

“Nikki” is tagged which will help with tracking and data collection.

Maicee said sea turtles can go right out to sea but there are a lot on the Solitary Islands.

“That is a protected marine habitat. As an endangered species, we do hope our released sea turtles go towards the Solitary Islands.”

The Mayor describes releasing “Nikki” as an incredible experience.

“You could really feel that beautiful ‘Nikki’ was so ready to get back in the wild, flapping around the closer we got to letting it go.

“To have a space here in Coffs Harbour where they

rehabilitate our wildlife and then… release them back into the wild is incredible.

“It's taken over $15,000 to nurse ‘Nikki' back to health and that's been through lots of donations from our entire community.”

Scarlett Ryan Sutherland, 7, attended the release having been inspired by marine conservation when she attended CCWS’s Eco Groms after-school program.

The program’s activities include caring for some of the animals at the sanctuary, helping in the Turtle Triage, and interacting with the sanctuary’s dolphins, penguins and Australian sea lions.

“I want to work in marine biology when I grow up,” Scarlett told NOTA.

“I was really interested to learn about sea life and how different each animal is and the different things they do.”

The CCWS rescues around 200 turtles every year with the length of stay depending on the severity of each illness or injury.

These often include boat strikes, buoyancy issues, entanglement or plastic ingestion.

q City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams, staff from the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary and ‘Nikki’ the green sea turtle.

q The community watches the turtle being released at North Wall.

q CCWS carer Maicee Heterick leads the way for the release.

q Mayor Nikki Williams with seven-year-olds, Scarlett Ryan Sutherland and Emily Milne.

Next phase of coastal sewerage upgrade begins

CONSTRUCTION is underway on the second stage of a $38 million project that will extend Bellingen Shire’s sewerage network into more communities.

The Sewering Coastal Villages Project is funded thanks to more than $11 million from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Program and over $27 million from Bellingen Shire Council against its long-term financial plan to deliver an upgraded sewage treatment plant in Urunga and provide

Mylestom and Raleigh with access to the central network.

NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) Executive Director Infrastructure Development Lisa Hingerty said, “Many locals in these coastal villages are reliant on smelly and expensive private septic tanks for their wastewater disposal which is why getting them hooked up to the upgraded wastewater treatment plant will be a game changer.”

Ledonne Construction

was engaged by Council through a competitive tender process for major river, rail and road crossings.

This work has now commenced as part of Phase 2, including the underbore of the Bellinger River, in preparation for 226 connections in Mylestom and Raleigh to the Urunga Sewage Treatment Plant.

Bringing these villages onto the wastewater network will reduce the need for onsite septic tanks that pose a risk to the iconic Kalang and

q Bringing these villages onto the wastewater network will reduce the need for on-site septic tanks.

Getting people ‘out and about’

By Andrew VIVIAN

MICHAEL Rodrigues

wants more people to get out and about at night time.

The NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner’s role is to invigorate nighttime activity across NSW and boost local businesses.

“We’re had some initial engagement with the City of Coffs Harbour and we are hoping to come to Coffs Harbour soon,” he said.

Since 2021, the Office of the 24-hour Economy Commissioner has launched several ongoing initiatives which seek to see communities across NSW flourish from the cultural, economic and social benefits of a thriving and connected 24-hour economy.

Local businesses can take part in these programs

and initiatives, which include capacity-building workshops and grant funding opportunities.

Mr Rodrigues said that his office’s strategy was initially Sydney-focused, but has now expanded.

It is now in the process of engaging with regions to understand their needs.

“We’re now making sure that businesses and councils are aware of the work of the Office,” he said.

This includes creating a better operating environment for venues and encouraging more late night trading for businesses of all types.

Mr Rodrigues said the strategy is not about 24hour trading, but about making it easier for venues to run a viable business.

For example, if there is a

music festival planned, his office can help the promoter devise ways of making it appropriate for the area.

Music venues are also eligible for a reduction in annual liquor licence fees and liquor trading extensions, under the Vibrancy Reform licensing incentives.

Mr Rodrigues said the rise of in-home entertainment, with streaming and home delivery of food, has created challenges for the “going out” economy, so venues need to think about ways of attracting different audiences such as live music and comedy.

“If a council wants to have a vibrant night time economy we can work with them and provide tools to help make it happen.”

Bellinger Rivers that have experienced contamination incidents in the past.

Bellingen Shire Council

Mayor Steve Allan said, “Contamination in the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers can potentially impact public health, wetlands and local businesses which is why we’re transforming the wastewater system here to reduce that risk and keep these waterways beautiful.”

Work on upgrading the wastewater plant began last year to double its capacity to cater for up to 10,000 people and increase the facility’s lifespan by 30 years, equipping it to handle future population growth.

Work on the plant is expected to be completed later this year while the rollout of the sewage network is on track to be finished by early 2026.

q Work on the plant is expected to be completed later this year while the rollout of the sewage network is on track to be finished by early 2026.

q Michael Rodrigues, the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner.

Hogan outlines funding commitments

FEDERAL Member for Page Kevin Hogan has promised funding for a reserve at Woolgoolga Beach and a Korora-based football club if the Coalition is elected at the Federal Election.

On Sunday, Mr Hogan announced that a Coalition government will commit $1.5 million towards the next stage of the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve Masterplan.

“Locals and visitors deserve accessible, modern public spaces that reflect the natural beauty of our coastline,” the MP said.

Mr Hogan said the upgrades will include a wide main path, joining the Whale Trail, past the Surf Life Saving Club, and through into the reserve.

“There will be new infrastructure like showers, bike racks, open lawns, and the jetty timbers sculpture, all surrounded by native vegetation and big shade trees,” he said.

“The twin flume thrill slide will be a major draw card for the pool, designed to give teenagers and families a fun, safe activity right here in town.”

On Tuesday, Mr Hogan announced $1.53 million to deliver new female change rooms, women’s toilets, upgraded amenities, and storage facilities at Northern Storm Football Club in Korora.

“This is about making sure our female athletes have access to the same quality facilities as male teammates,” Mr Hogan said.

“The club has seen a big increase in female participation over recent years, but the current facilities are outdated and don’t meet the needs of players.”

Mathew to contest Cowper for Legalise Cannabis Australia

NAMBUCCA Heads resident Megan Mathew will contest the seat of Cowper for Legalise Cannabis Australia in the May Federal Election.

Ms Mathew’s working background includes experience at all levels of the hospitality industry, as well as qualifications in childcare, event management, horticulture and community services.

Her journey into advocacy began when she became a legally prescribed medicinal cannabis patient in 2019 to treat complex post-traumatic stress disorder.

Before this, she describes being reliant on a cocktail of pharmaceutical medications that left her “unable to function”.

After believing she had exhausted all other treatment options, Ms Mathew said she found “significant improvement in her condition with medicinal cannabis”, which led her on a journey to seek legislative reform.

Ms Mathew believes the hemp industry has the potential to “transform both the environment and the economy”.

Other key policy priorities ahead of the 3 May poll are housing affordability and homelessness.

She told NOTA she will push for increased federal investment in social and affordable housing and

advocate for policies that “support renters and first-home buyers rather than just property investors”.

Access to healthcare in rural and regional areas is another key focus.

Ms Mathew supports increased Medicare funding, incentives to attract doctors to regional areas and “expanded mental health services to ensure that no one is left behind”.

She is also advocating for improved support for small businesses, and calling for tax reform, fairer banking policies and investment in regional infrastructure.

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q Mayor Nikki Williams joined Mr Hogan and Northern Storm club members in Korora for the announcement.

q Megan Mathew is the Legalise Cannabis Australia candidate for Cowper.

Arts and crafts in the Garden

By Andrea FERRARI

FREE demonstrations of various art practices will take place during the Combined Art and Craft Group’s school holiday exhibition at Coffs’ Botanic Garden.

A mainstay of holiday entertainment, the group consists of six local artists who get together for exhibitions of their handmade works.

There will be paintings by Ivinnie Brown, Isabella Brandli and Sharon Ingersole, covering various mediums including pen and wash, watercolours, acrylic and mixed media.

Papercraft art, which includes journals, friendship verses, bookmarks and cards, as well as porcelain painting, stained glass suncatchers, and various knitted and crochet items,

are just a few of the items on display by the other three artists, Marion Crear, Maxine Kohlhagen and Yvonne Smith.

The demonstrations are from 13-19 April between 9.30am and 3pm. They kick-off at 1pm this Sunday, when Marion

Crear will show how she goes about making her art journals, and display her different styles of work.

Yvonne Smith will demonstrate Neurographic Art on Monday from 10.30am.

It is an artform that suits beginners and nonartists, working with paper and pens to create a state of mindfulness and peace without having too much structure or the ability to draw.

Ivinnie Brown will demonstrate pen and wash practices on Tuesday and pastels on Thursday from 10.30am.

The artists will rotate during the course of the exhibition.

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q Some of the items on display by Marion Crear.

q A selection of knitwear by Maxine Kohlhagen.

q Artwork and books made by Yvonne Smith.

q Artwork by Sharon Ingersole.

ArtsNational season underway

By Andrea FERRARI

ARTSNATIONAL Coffs Coast opened its 2025 season of talks with two diverse topics.

In February, Dr Elizabeth Ann Macgregor AO OBE, gave a captivating talk titled “From Pariah to Popular, How the MCA Australia became the most visited Museum of Contemporary Art in the world”.

Dr Macgregor took her ArtsNational Coffs Coast audience behind-the-scenes to hear how a once derided, financially compromised art museum came to be celebrated as one of the world’s most dynamic and visited galleries.

During her 22 years as the museum’s director, Dr Macgregor cajoled politicians and potential sponsors, eliminated entry fees, expanded the MCA’s partnership ambitions into Western Sydney, and consolidated a multigenerational audience with bold exhibitions and a deep commitment to arts education.

A gifted storyteller, curator and art historian, she started her career as a driver for the Scottish Arts Council’s travelling gallery bus, and has maintained her passion for both contemporary

art and its transformative potential.

“Art is for everyone,” she told her 155 strong audience, “regardless of background, regardless of ability, regardless of postcode.”

In March, London-based archaeologist, writer and translator, Sue Rollin, took

her audience on a journey through the world’s most magnificent domes.

Called “Glorious Domes”, Ms Rollin’s talk covered how dome structures feature in all cultures and in all sizes from domestic igloos, built of snow bricks and with no scaffolding or

Sue

masonry, to the imposing dome of Singapore’s national stadium, with its metal, glass, concrete and plastic.

The audience heard that Albania has more domes than any other country.

Originally built as bunkers to withstand invading hordes, which never occurred, its 750,000 domelike bunkers have been retrofitted into animal shelters, cafes and storehouses.

Ms Rollin talked about humble home domes to domes as mosques, mausoleums, cathedrals and palaces.

From Roman Emperor Agrippa’s Pantheon (27BC) to the Byzantine masterpiece of Hagia St Sophia in Constantinople (Istanbul); from the Ottoman Süleyman the Magnificent’s gargantuan 16th century Süleymaniye Mosque, completed in 1557, to the Central Asian capital of Timur, Samarkand, where Shah Jahan built perhaps the most famous of all domed structures in 1632-48, the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.

“From contemporary art to uplifting historical architecture, our arts talks canvass the endless

Celebrate Songkran in Coffs Harbour

THE Thai New Year celebration, known as Songkran, returns to the Harbourside Market on Sunday.

Typically held in April each year, Songkran is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Thailand, marking the start of the solar new year according to the Thai lunar calendar.

The word "Songkran" comes from the Sanskrit word "Sankranti", which means "astrological passage" or "the movement of the sun."

possibilities of human creativity,” said ArtsNational Coffs Coast’s Chair, Annie Talvé.

“All art was once contemporary, and all contemporary art has historical antecedents.

“People are coming from across the Coffs Coast and beyond to learn together and be inspired by these well researched and dynamically presented monthly arts talks.”

ArtsNational’s 21 April talk is by Dr Kathleen Olive on Hiroshige’s Woodblock Masterpieces.

“Don’t miss out on this joyful and vibrant celebration of Thai culture and the start of the Thai New Year,” organisers said in a statement.

“Gather your friends and family and come for a fun-filled day of music, dance, food, and more at the Harbourside Market in Coffs Harbour.”

Songkran celebrations will be held on Sunday, 13 April from 8:30am-2pm at the Harbourside Market in Coffs Harbour.

Entry is free, with donations welcome.

Event highlights include traditional Thai dances, music, water blessings and the Miss Songkran competition.

q Elizabeth Ann Macgregor (L) with ArtsNational Coffs Coast audience members Anita Tang, Deb Wall, Annie Talvé and Sue Paff.

q Sue Rollin with Jeremy Nash, ArtsNational Coffs Coast committee member.

q A slide from

Rollin’s talk showing the extensive Süleymaniye Mosque compound in Istanbul.

q Event highlights include traditional Thai dances, music, water blessings and the Miss Songkran competition.

World’s fastest bird dives into Botanic Garden

By Andrea FERRARI

THE world’s fastest bird, the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), paid a flying visit to the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden in Coffs Harbour, then returned to have something to eat.

Though found across Australia, the Peregrine Falcon is not particularly common and is rarely seen, which is why a visitor to the Botanic Garden was surprised to see this magnificent bird through her camera lens.

“At first I thought it might be an Australian Hobby,” said regular birder and garden visitor, Ellany

Whelan.

“But a closer look showed it to be the unmistakable helmet of the Peregrine Falcon.”

This is the first time one has been officially recorded at the garden.

Garden volunteer and birder Cheryl Cooper told News Of The Area that there had been another sighting before but “it was a fly over, rather than landing to enjoy breakfast”.

Officially identified as the fastest bird in the world, this agile predatory raptor can reach diving speeds of 386kph.

Pairs mate for life and generally roam in a 20-30 square kilometre area,

NOTICE

which means this bird is likely to live locally.

Their prey includes small to medium birds, plus rabbits and smaller daytime mammals.

Peregrines are also a bird of the world, being found on most major continents.

“The garden is an amazing place to see birds,” Ms Cooper said.

“There have already been 88 different species recorded in the garden already in 2025. You just never know what you might see.

“There are brochures about some of the key birds available as you enter the garden.”

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURES

QUALITY ACCOUNTING COFFS COAST RALLY

FRIDAY SHAKEDOWN STAGE 2ND MAY 2025 8AM-12PM WEDDING BELLS FOREST - ROADS - FLOODED GUMS, TURPENTINE. SATURDAY 3RD MAY 2025

7AM-6PM LOWER BUCCA, ORARA EAST FORESTS ROADS - KINGS RIDGE, FINBERG, LOOP, MCRAES, EAST BANK FOREST, KOOKABURRA, COTTAGE, LOST HUT TRAIL, PLONK, STORE, APSEYS.

7AM - 11:30PM WEDDING BELLS, CONGLOMERATE FORESTS ROADS - SHERWOOD, MCIVERS, MARY’S WATERHOLE, BRUSH BOX, LANTANA, TURPENTINE, FLOODED GUM, PLUM PUDDING, T TREE FOREST, KNOBBYS FOREST.

4PM - 11:30PM SHERWOOD CREEK ROAD BETWEEN MURPHYS RD AND PLUM PUDDING RD.

EVENT CONTACT

COFFS COAST RALLY 2025 0499 358 162

LABOR has announced Emerald Beach local Wendy Backhous as its candidate for Page in the Federal Election.

Ms Backhouse is a registered nurse, a former Commonwealth public servant, and served on the board of the Central West Women’s Health Centre in Bathurst for nearly a decade.

In a statement to NOTA, Ms Backhous expressed a strong commitment to the environment and a sustainable future for the region.

“I’m a committed environmentalist and I have been working with the people who are making a positive difference on the Mid North Coast to continue Labor’s strong history of environmental protection,” she said.

“I understand education and secure well-paid jobs are essential for kids in our regional communities.”

A State Emergency Service volunteer, Ms

Backhous said the electorate of Page needs a “fresh approach” to politics, noting the cost-of-living pressures currently facing constituents.

“Our businesses cannot thrive if their customers have no money left after they pay for essentials such as housing, bills and food,” she said.

“It is deeply distressing how hard it is for so many people in Page to just live, work and care for their families.”

Ms Backhous is also advocating for the improvement of all-round community safety, rather than a simple “tough on crime” approach.

“That just makes people feel afraid and mistrustful of each other,” she said.

“Real safety is about young people feeling comfortable at school and online.

“It’s about women and children being safe in their homes and when they are not

it’s about them being able to leave and find refuge.

“It’s about older people being protected from incessant scammers and being able to keep cool in a heatwave.”

The Labor candidate is also passionate about progress for women, Indigenous Australians and people with disabilities.

“Labor has always driven gender equality and safety by improving the gender pay gap, increasing the funding for domestic violence programs and economic reforms to name a few.

“Only Labor recognises the demands on carers through improved access to quality early education, aged care and NDIS services.

“Only Labor will support the self-determination of our First Nations people.

“They have looked after this country for over 60,000 years and will be critical to meeting the challenges we face.”

q The Peregrine Falcon visits the Botanic Garden in Coffs Harbour. Photos: Ellany Whelan.

q Labor candidate for Page Wendy Backhous.

‘Deaf Camp’ helps kids be themselves

By Leigh WATSON

MORE than 60 regional children will come together in June for an unforgettable experience at the 35th annual North Coast Deaf Camp.

Held at the Bonville Coffs Coast Adventure Centre, this four-day camp is a muchanticipated event for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Known simply as “Deaf Camp” to the kids who attend, the program offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures including “poison ball”, a commando course, canoeing, archery, and a giant swing.

Evenings are filled with bonding activities like “get to know you” games and Auslan signing challenges, helping students forge friendships and a stronger sense of community.

Deaf Camp is a place where kids bond with each other and new friendships are forged, like that of Naser Murad and Logan Pethick.

Naser, a 19-year-old Iraqi refugee, is profoundly deaf and Auslan sign dependent.

Logan is also profoundly deaf, but wears two cochlear implants and is a user of spoken English.

Both come from different language backgrounds.

“I met Naser at the Deaf Camp and [found] my experience was vastly different growing up,” Logan said.

“I grew up not knowing sign language.

"Meeting others who do sign was a big difference to me.”

Penny Ward, Assistant Principal Hearing Support for Coffs Harbour and Bellinger Valley, is calling on local businesses and community members to help make the camp more affordable for families.

“These kids attend mainstream schools, often [they are] the only deaf student in their class,” she said.

“While they go on school camps with their hearing peers, Deaf Camp is different as it’s the one place where they aren’t ‘the deaf kid’.

“Here, they’re just themselves, surrounded by friends who truly understand them.

“It’s life-changing for their self-esteem and identity.”

Unlike most, families of deaf children often cover the cost of two separate trips; one with their mainstream school and one for Deaf Camp.

“We never want parents to be forced to choose between them,” Penny said.

“And this year, the costs for organising this camp are higher than previous years due to rising insurance costs and the financial impacts of COVID on camp operators.

“Deaf camp also requires additional staff

to cater to kids with diverse communication needs.

“Some only sign, some only speak, and others use both.

“We make sure every activity is fully accessible in both spoken English and Auslan, and we have extra support for those children with complex needs.”

Local clubs like Quota, Rotary, Lions, and businesses such as Watson’s Caravans have already stepped up to cover the shortfall, but the camp still needs around $5000 to ensure every child can attend.

Anyone willing to help can contact Penny at 0413 681 298 or on Penelope.j.ward@det. nsw.edu.au.

q The obstacles course provides fun challenges.

q Water activities include canoeing.

q Naser Murad and Logan Pethick became friends at Deaf Camp.

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Susan, Stuarts Point

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Concerns over auction of Kalang koala land

By Andrew VIVIAN

THE Bellingen Environment Centre (BEC) and other community groups raised concerns when Transport for NSW (TfNSW) advertised that a parcel of land on the Kalang River was going to auction last Saturday.

The land is a designated Biodiversity Stewardship Site and BEC wants it to be considered for inclusion in the proposed Great Koala National Park (GKNP).

BEC spokesperson Ashley Love, said Transport NSW purchased 463 hectares along the Upper Kalang River as part of the process for establishing compensatory habitat provisions for the Coffs Harbour Bypass and it is covered by a Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement.

“The land forms part of the Kalang Headwaters and is located in the heart of the proposed Great Koala National Park,” he said.

The Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement area and an adjoining property of approximately equal size are surrounded by State Forests which form part of the proposed GKNP, and BEC says it is a valuable potential ‘inholding’.

The land also forms part of the linkages between existing conservation reserves including the New England and Dorrigo National Parks Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Areas, Bellinger River and Gumbaynggirr National Parks and Baalijin and Juugawaarri Nature Reserves.

The Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement includes biodiversity credits for the site for the koala and other animals and designated forest types.

“It should have been evident to all agencies that the Kalang River Biodiversity Stewardship site was potentially an outstanding

freehold addition to the proposed Great Koala National Park.”

Mr Love said that the Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement has been undermined by numerous tracks through the property allowing logging contractors

to legally access adjoining Oakes and Roses Creek state forests.

Having a private ownership of an extensive proportion of the “place of arrival” for the proposed Great Koala National Park in the headwaters of the Kalang River, would greatly restrict or remove opportunities for appropriate visitor facilities and management.

local residents or community groups and has been poorly advertised”.

Catherine Jones, BEC’s secretary, said, “The proposed sale of the Kalang River Biodiversity Stewardship Site has not been discussed with

When asked for comment, a TfNSW spokesperson said the proposed auction for 3566 Kalang Road, Kalang Biodiversity Stewardship Site, has been deferred.

Sawtell Rotary celebrates 50 years

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Rotary Club of Sawtell saluted five decades of service with a celebratory dinner, where members past and present were joined by friends and the wider community.

The milestone event went ahead despite the inclement weather.

“The weather may have been terrible, but it didn’t dampen the party atmosphere, and it was a night to remember,” Sawtell

Rotary club spokesperson Peter Paff told News Of The Area.

“It was a wonderful night of reminiscing and catching up”.

President Denis Gleeson said that the evening’s program was designed to ensure minimum formalities and maximum catch-up time and this is exactly what happened.

Guests included partners, family of past members, past Rotarians and three previous Rotary-sponsored exchange

students, one who spent 12 months in the USA in 1987, one from 2017 who went to Germany, and another from 2019 who also went to Germany.

“Over the years, Sawtell Rotary has sent 30 students overseas for 12 months at a time and has hosted 27 students from other countries.”

The one surviving charter member from 1975, Vic Lindsay, was unable to attend, but past member Les White, who joined the club three

months after charter, was joined by his wife Betty in cutting the celebratory cake.

Special guests for the evening included District Governor Bruce from Inverell and two past Governors, Ken Hall and David Mayne, as well as an incoming Governor for 2026/27, Di Hall.

“We thank members from surrounding clubs who support us at our events and functions regularly and it was fitting that they celebrated with us,” Mr Paff said.

“Gathering information for the event has been a

great way to revisit the many wonderful programs and the numerous members who have either moved on or have been ‘called to higher service’.”

Over the years, Sawtell Rotary has supported many local organisations and continues to do so.

“The COVID years were not kind to many organisations and our members soldiered on via Zoom.

“We have bounced back with our many regular events.”

In common with many Rotary Clubs, low membership is something the members are trying to turnaround.

“After 50 years we intend to continue our work, and we welcome men and women who want to support our community and causes.”

The Rotary Club of Sawtell meetings take place on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at Sawtell RSL. Anyone interested in the club or its work can contact Peter Paff on 0428 140752 or at pete9650@gmail.com.

q Les and Betty White and Debi and Denis Gleeson (President).

q Ken and Di Hall with Isaac and Charley Smith (Rotary exchange student to Germany in 2017).

Funny talks are winners

By Andrea FERRARI

TOASTMASTERS club

members in Coffs Harbour have won the top places in the speech contest recently hosted by the Oxley Division in Taree.

Competing in the Humorous Speech category, Jetty Speakers Toastmaster Club President Susan Hereford-Ashley, won first place, with Coffs Harbour Toastmasters Club member Fran Kerkhoff placing second.

Susan and Fran are both aged over 80 and are longtime members of the public speaking network.

Susan embarked on her Toastmasters journey in 2012 and is a member of three Mid North Coast clubs.

Fran has been a member of the Coffs Harbour

Toastmasters Club for 32 years.

The post-event report said, “these two vivacious ladies embody the core values of Toastmasters, including integrity, respect, service, and excellence, while also showcasing the power of humour, friendship, resilience, and perseverance.

“Their presence at the contest not only entertained and inspired but also served as a reminder of the boundless possibilities that come with age and experience.”

Susan told News Of The Area, “My speech was about a fly and how it was driving me mad for several days.

“I made use of a tea towel, an extendable fly swatter and a fake can of fly spray.

“I also made use of the speaking area.

“Fran spoke of her tendency to cause mishaps when she was a child.

“She [also] made great use of the speaking area and movement.”

Coffs Harbour Toastmasters Club meets at the Cavanbah Centre on a Tuesday night and the Jetty Speakers meet at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club on Thursday mornings for breakfast.

Both Coffs clubs have members who have barely finished school or are at university, through to octogenarians.

“The Toastmasters experience really enables anyone to find their best self,”

Susan said.

“[It] enables us to go beyond what we thought we could.”

Ready for a rocky ride

By Andrea FERRARI

FORTY-SIX cyclists from the Coffs Coast, making up Team Faircloth and Reynolds, are in the last stages of preparation for the Tour de Rocks fundraising ride from Armidale to Woolgoolga on 24-26 April.

The three-day ride, covering 260 kilometres, sees hundreds of cyclists raising a minimum of $250 each to help raise awareness of cancer and cancer research.

Tour de Rocks spokeswoman Kay Endres told News Of The Area, “Faircloth and Reynolds are a great supporter of Tour de Rocks and we love having the team onboard with us.

“There are 329 people registered, but we always get more registrations in the weeks before, so we’re thinking 380 in total.

“The route to Woolgoolga is amazing for riders and supporters as it is on backroads and so picturesque.

Sailors race into Coffs

By Andrea FERRARI

THE 39th Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2025 takes place this weekend, 11-13 April, setting out from Barrenjoey Headlands in Broken Bay on Friday at 1pm.

Sailors head north for 226 nautical miles, arriving at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club (CHYC) on Sunday where a presentation takes place in the afternoon.

It’s a wide-ranging field of 33 boats, which is a slightly reduced number of entries owing to CHYC’s marina currently undergoing refurbishment and in damage control after Cyclone Alfred.

It’s described as “an

interesting fleet” by the hosts Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, with anyone from pros and club sailors and young and older alike taking on the unpredictable coastal classic.

“The race is exciting due to the range of classes entered and the variability of winners; it is essentially a race governed by the weather and sailing conditions,” CHYC Commodore John Wait told News Of The Area.

“An exciting entrant this year is ‘Awen’ a 60ft catamaran which will be mooring in the harbour due to the marina renovation currently underway – it should look quite impressive.”

“CHYC takes great

“To finish off at the beach is a highlight.”

Faircloth and Reynolds team leader Paul Courtney, has been on board with the ride since it started over 10 years ago and has seen the team grow from fewer than 10 cyclists to over 50 last year.

“We’re slightly organised”, he said, playing down the painstaking planning put

pleasure in hosting the finish of this race, where the sailing member volunteers welcome each boat on arrival by assisting berthing in the marina and providing ‘a very welcome Welcome Pack’ [of] a hot meal and refreshing beer.

“With boats arriving at any time over an approximate 48-hour period, it takes committed enthusiasm to host this race, and I am proud to say our members have this in buckets.”

The Club hosts the presentation ceremony on Sunday around 2pm.

“It’s a celebration of the race and its participants,” Club representative Tammy Mills-Thom said.

into the preparation of the pedalling team.

“Ours is one of the bigger teams and because of the logistics, including overnight camping, we have four or five vehicles and a team of supporters who all have a job to do.”

This is the second year the ride finishes at Woolgoolga Beach, having been re-routed from the original destination

of South West Rocks owing to major road works.

The route takes the riders through rainforest, the New England countryside, Australian bush, rolling hills and waterfalls, backroads, farm tracks and “a bit of mud” and then the beach. Tour de Rocks 2024 raised $375,000 for cancer charities.

“The finish line honours celebration occurs as soon after the crossing as possible, which could be anytime from

q Toastmasters executive Judy Mason presents awards to Sue Hereford-Ashley (Jetty Speakers) and Fran Kerkhoff (Coffs Harbour Toastmasters).

q Start of the ride in Armidale.

q The team’s bikes on their way to the Armidale start.

q Team Faircloth and Reynolds in Woolgoolga.

q Coffs Yacht Club Commodore John Wait with marina staff, plumbing the harbour and marina entrance in preparation for the Pittwater to Coffs race.

early Saturday morning, with each skipper and crew and those present in the club.”

The race can be followed

easily via Yacht Tracker, which gives accurate arrival times.

WHAT'SVIBIN'

Art by Woopi’s winning beach Motor Festival to be held this weekend

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour Showground is set to become a mecca for motors this weekend, with the running of the Bridgestone Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Motor Festival.

Hosted by the Coffs Harbour and District Sporting Car Club, the festival will be held from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, 13 April.

The inclusion criteria will be that if it has a motor and it’s for fun, then it’s welcome.

A Coffs Harbour and District Sporting Car Club spokesperson gave a rundown on what the day would entail.

“There might be some surprises on the day, and a number of clubs, businesses and individuals from our region have registered to display at the event,” they said.

“The plan is a relaxed community event, that is a little different.

By Andrea FERRARI

WHEN Woolgoolga Main Beach was recently named the top beach on the Australian mainland in Tourism Australia’s official 2025 Best Australian Beaches list, artists at Woolgoolga Art Gallery (WAG) saw it as an opportunity to celebrate at their annual beach-side art show on Easter Saturday 19 April, 9am-2pm.

“There’s no better way to celebrate our local beach being officially declared the best beach in Australia than by spending the day at Art By The Sea,” artist Karen Thio told News Of The Area.

Now in its seventh year, this much-loved free event, hosted by WAG, brings together a diverse showcase of handcrafts and products from talented local artists.

“It's the perfect place to find unique treasures, watch live art in action, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.”

Many artists will be in attendance, painting and talking with visitors.

“If you are interested in expanding your leisure activities there will be members of the clubs present to answer whatever questions you have regarding their club.

“One of the aims of the event is to raise some funds for our local SES so donations are welcome on entry but not required.

Throughout the day there are free demonstrations by artists.

Colin South will present water colour painting, Margaret Drever will demonstrate acrylic painting, Harriet Bystrom’s speciality is gel printing botanicals, Donna Ellwood will show water colour painting and Karen Thio will demonstrate etching and printing.

“Little artists will love the card making

“It's the first weekend of the school holidays so it will be an opportunity to get the kids out of the house.”

The club will also be hosting the Quality Accounting Coffs Coast Rally on Saturday, 3 May.

Art Demonstrations

Market Stalls

Kids Activities

Raffles • Cake Stall

and rock painting activities and there's even a face painting station to add a splash of colour to their day.”

There is also the chance to win a gourmet picnic hamper, or a craft-filled prize.

Art By The Beach takes place at Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, “overlooking Australia's Number One beach”.

Hiroshige’s Woodblock Masterpieces and the Japanese Sensibility for Snow PRESENTED BY DR KATHLEEN OLIVE

Monday 21 April from 6.00 to 7.00pm St John Paul College Theatre Bookings essential Casual guests: $35 www.artsnationalcoffscoast.au

q Woolgoolga Art Gallery’s Art By The Sea is back for Easter Saturday.

q The Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Motor Festival will be held this weekend.

Bestsellers converge at unique Bellingen Readers & Writers

“THE Book Thief” author Markus Zusak is one of many bestselling authors converging on Bellingen this June long weekend, and he can’t wait to meet readers in such a vibrant and relaxed setting.

“I’ve been lucky to go to festivals around the world, but there’s something extra welcoming about regional festivals,” Markus said.

“I feel more at home there, and the people are really open.

“There’s more space, and yet it’s more intimate. It’s less of that idea of get ‘em in, get ‘em out, which can happen at the big festivals, like in Sydney or Melbourne.”

Featuring over 30 high-profile guests, the 2025 festival is expected to be the most popular event in the festival’s history.

“I can see [this festival] isn’t just going through the motions. They want to make

it different for the audience and for the writers, so I think that makes for a really exciting festival and keeps us all on our toes.”

Markus will first appear at the panel Mortality & Mercy with Courtney Collins and Adam Norris, and then in conversation with Miles Franklin-winning author Tara June Winch.

“I love [Tara’s] writing, her spirit, so I’m really excited about that. But also the event with Adam and Courtney.

“No one’s really come up with a session like that before, which is hard to believe since it’s been 20 years of The Book Thief and Death being out in the world! So I’m really looking forward to it.”

Early bird tickets are on sale now at www.bellingenwritersfestival.com.au. q

Gina Chick David Marr

Professor Marcia Langton

Trent Dalton

Peter Greste

Artwork by Georgie Paix

Markus Zusak.

By Manny WOOD

Vigilance key to tackling elder abuse

THIS column takes a break from the usual “Hypothetical” formula to address the important issue of elder abuse.

Elder abuse is an action or lack of action by someone in a relationship of trust that causes harm to an older person.

Older persons are particularly vulnerable to abuse due to frequent declines in their physical health and cognition.

Elder abuse can include neglect, financial abuse and domestic violence.

Unfortunately, reported instances of elder abuse are increasing.

The most common abusers are family members, friends and neighbours.

Adult children, who are often in their 50s and 60s, are the group most likely to engage in elder abuse.

The housing affordability crisis, the increase in property prices and increases in relationship breakdowns are causing many adult children to move back home.

These cases can also involve mental health issues, drug and alcohol abuse and unemployment.

More specific examples include instances where the older person is isolated from friends and family and support services.

The abuser may restrict access to services and limit living expenses to preserve their future inheritance. Sometimes abuse can take the form of the misuse of a power of attorney or other forms of theft.

Granny flat arrangements can also pose risks to older people.

Situations arise where an older parent pays a child a substantial sum of money to reside at the child’s property only to find that their accommodation is not appropriate or that their relationship with the child or the child’s partner deteriorates.

If the child’s relationship with their partner breaks-down, the elder can be forced to become involved in family law proceedings.

The number of older Australians is increasing as are instances of elder abuse.

A recent study found that 15 percent of over 65s had reported experiences of elder abuse.

Elder abuse is often hard to identify and elders are often reluctant to report abuse, so it is important for the community to be vigilant in this regard and critical that our elders obtain legal advice from experienced solicitors, particularly in relation to granny flat agreements, property transfers and estate planning.

This fictional column is not legal advice.

Why is philanthropic funding a problem?

DEAR News Of The Area,

I AM concerned that many people seem to think that a politician being part-funded by a philanthropic organisation is a terrible thing.

I’ve fact-checked Climate 200 and found that it is a crowd-sourced group, funded by c.38,500 individuals whose aim is to increase action on climate change policies and promote integrity in politics.

The other half of Caz Heise’s funding comes from donations being made by Cowper residents who want an independent voice in Canberra, rather than someone who tows the party line even when it is detrimental for Cowper.

Also, why is no one asking who is funding the Liberals and Nationals?

Or is it because no one will admit

that it’s coming from the likes of Gina Reinhardt and other Trumpian massmining interests?

I’d much rather have an Aussie on our side who supports a world that will be healthy and at peace for our children and grandchildren to live in.

Please research the facts before making assumptions which, quite frankly, are incorrect and misleading.

The Lib-Nats and Country Parties have held onto Cowper for over 100 years, but that’s not who we are any more.

It’s time we have a strong voice in Canberra that speaks for us and not the mainstream political parties.

Regards, Penelope DENNIS, Coffs Harbour.

‘Disillusioned’ by politics

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE last few weeks in NOTA we have read a number of letters regarding the upcoming Federal election and our local candidates.

It is important that we start to consider our options in this upcoming election.

I would like to also voice my feelings and, albeit, concerns.

Currently our Federal representative is a National Party man as is our State representative.

As of the Council election last September we also have a Mayor who, although having run as an ‘independent’, is clearly aligned with the National Party as are her running mates who are also Councillors.

I feel like the National Party has a strangle hold in our area.

At the poll held at the time of the Council elections when almost 70 percent of the voters said ‘no’ to the Jetty Foreshore development proposed by the State Government, our new National Party Mayor simply recorded the result as being ‘noted’.

Although 33,161 voters recorded their opposition to this development our

DEAR Jasminda,

WHY, on the face of so much evidence, do people refuse to see the importance of the environment?

What do they think is left when we destroy it?

Gina P.

Dear Gina P,

THIS sounds like one of the existential questions I ponder at 3am, so I'm grateful that you are asking it at a far more reasonable hour.

The short answer is that people's views are largely shaped by their upbringing, their exposure to different experiences and influences, their education, and their personal qualities.

People who are paid millions (or billions) in ventures where environmental protection is an inconvenience will act in a vastly different way to those who understand that the environment isn't purely transactional.

There is something incredibly short-sighted and naive about not respecting the finite nature of earth's resources.

I'm never sure whether the attitude is based on pure greed or supreme confidence in an afterlife up in the clouds somewhere where preserving what's left of earth doesn't matter.

Gina, I think the only way to cope with this situation is to do what you can.

Support people with policies that respect the environment; participate in petitions and actions on environmental issues that concern you; make choices in your day-to-day life that help promote sustainability, and join groups with like-minded people.

National Party State representative said that the poll wasn’t part of the State Government process and ignored our voices also.

Then, while acknowledging that it is a state-proposed development, I contacted our Federal representative by email in November last year with another follow up email in December asking what his position was on this proposed development as he does currently represent the people of this area.

To date I have not had the courtesy of a reply.

Being one to not give up, I even wrote to the leader of the NSW National Party, Dugald Saunders, complaining that our State representative was not listening to the voices of his community – I’m still awaiting a reply there also.

I thought all these people represented the people of Coffs Harbour/Cowper and their roles are to serve us, their community.

I naively felt that all of them would make representations to the State Government on behalf of their constituents as we clearly voiced to them what we want and don’t want regarding the proposed Jetty development.

In the past I was a regular National Party voter but understandably I now feel totally let down and ignored by all our elected representatives.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

I am disillusioned by what purports to be a ‘democratic’ system.

This coming Federal election and the State election in the coming years I will be looking for someone who truly represents me and my community, someone who listens to my concerns, answers my letters and is transparent and honest.

Even though I have been ignored and probably labelled as a ‘ratbag’ I can still vote.

Regards, Fran STEPHENSON, Coffs Harbour.

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Independents can work

DEAR News Of The Area,

THERE’VE been quite a few comments about funding for Caz Heise's election campaign in the Federal seat of Cowper, and about whether Independents can accomplish anything when they're not in government.

To the first, it's no secret that Caz Heise has received support from Climate

DEAR News Of The Area,

WHEN Stephen Ottaway says his electricity bill has gone down, it is not because of the Albanese government's fake promise but because he went to the expense of installing a solar system to avoid paying the higher electricity charges resulting from the government's energy policy.

Although I wonder whether he has

200, and if you go to the Climate 200 webpage, you'll see the names of the hundreds of ordinary people who have donated to support Independents across the country.

The broad agenda is climate action and integrity in politics, but each Independent candidate has developed their own policies, based on consultations with their local communities.

When I last looked, Caz Heise had 22 separate policies, in areas ranging from health to veterans affairs.

To the second point, 20 years ago, I worked for two Independent MLAs in the Northern Territory.

Through their work, they broadened the public debate, introduced fresh solutions to problems, offered new policy ideas, proposed amendments to

legislation and tabled private members bills.

They had some wins for their local communities.

And it was interesting to see that several of their ideas were adopted by the main political parties, as time passed.

These two politicians were re-elected again and again, until they retired.

Regards, Lorraine DAVIES, North Boambee Valley.

factored into his savings the cost of the installation, both his contribution and the government subsidies, which come out of the taxpayer's pocket. Nor the fact that the system only has a life span of 15 to 20 years and he will be up for the cost of replacement and the disposal of the spent solar panels and batteries, most of which will go to landfill.

That's good for the environment, I don't think!

He extols the savings he is also achieving by not having to buy petrol for his electric car.

I note he was able to sell his petrol driven car after it had driven 350,000 kms.

Will he be able to achieve those same kms from his electric car before the batteries fail?

I doubt whether he would be able to sell his electric car for more than scrap value.

Carbon credits can’t cut it in timber

DEAR News Of The Area,

TURNING native hardwood timber forests used for selective harvesting into carbon storage credits is a dangerous attempt to close a viable industry.

This latest proposition is a ludicrous attack on the highly regulated Australian native hardwood timber sector, essential to sourcing hardwood timber for the country’s growing housing, construction,

Ignored costs of going green Send ‘em to Specsavers

DEAR News Of The Area,

ALL candidates at council elections should have to go to Specsavers as they do hearing and eye sight tests.

Some councillors as well as the Mayor can't seem to see or hear the community's discontent with the council's decision to go against the 68 percent ‘no’ vote to development at the foreshores.

They currently have two polls online, one to build a walkway to West Coffs with

mining, railways and infrastructure needs.

Native hardwood timber is the only renewable sustainable resource that already captures and stores carbon. Taking a lock up and leave approach to forests is extremely dangerous.

Unmanaged forests cause catastrophic bush fires, causing death to people and animals and destroys property. Setting aside the forests for carbon credits under a yet to be proven

a highway underpass.

Wouldn't it be better to use that money to fix and build footpaths around town?

I suppose there's no brass plaque moment in that however.

It doesn't matter what the polls say however, they will do what they want anyway.

method of measurement sounds good, but it is a hair brained idea set to raise a paltry $100 million per annum.

The native hardwood industry in NSW currently generates more than $2.9 billion each year and provides 8900 full time jobs (Ernst and Young Report 2023) and up to 22,000 indirect jobs in the NSW regions.

Australia already imports $5 billion worth of hardwood timber, often from developing countries that don’t have the

five semi-trailers to Willowbank five days a week, a trip of approx 420 kilometres each way.

What is the cost to rate payers for transport and dumping fees?

The expected battery life of an electric vehicle is 10 to 20 years.

Who would buy a second-hand EV with the remaining battery life unknown?

The purchaser could be up for the exorbitant replacement battery cost at any time.

I think I will stick with my diesel.

Regards, Wayne DUESBURY, Boambee.

strict regulatory framework.

The vast quantity of timber in National parks could be used for carbon credits.

Less than one percent of the public forest estate is harvested each year, supervised by the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) complying with the Integrated Forest Operations Agreement (IFOA).

Regards, Noel ATKINS, Director, REEF Research Foundation.

constructed on the link road approximately 300 metres from a roundabout. Surely the trucks can use the existing roundabout to get to their destination as they have to navigate small roundabouts to get to the big roundabout, just another obstacle to help the daily peak hour traffic jam.

We pay rates which are amongst the highest in the state, yet our councillors won't do as the majority of rate payers expect them to do.

DEAR News Of The Area, CITY of Coffs Harbour has previously received funding for upgrading Woolgoolga and Sawtell community swimming pools.

The mismanagement of the project saw funds being returned as the project could not be completed within the funding

It would be nice if the council moved heaven and earth to build a new tip, like they did to build the new council chambers, as currently we are sending deadline.

Ssssh! This is a secret as costs have never been disclosed and we had the land and approvals in the early 2000s for a tip out near Nana Glen.

I suppose nobody wants their name on a brass plaque at a tip.

We now have a roundabout being

Sawtell pool funding promise

Both pools were closed for a considerable time and much rate payers money spent on the project.

Now the statement comes 'Sawtell could finally see its pool upgraded IF the coalition wins the election' (as per NBN News).

What sort of blackmail is this?

Sawtell and Woolgoolga pools are community services managed by the City of Coffs Harbour Council.

Lets take the politics out of this and ask Council what they are going to do if the Coalition does not win?

Personally I would love to see the Council-run community pools upgraded.

If this cannot happen due to Council

Regards, Ivan WILLIAMS, Coffs Coast.

budget constraints let us please just have access to the facilities.

This includes extending opening hours and assisting the community continue with their health and wellbeing, not to mention the much-needed access for swim clubs and squads.

Regards, Debra WALL, Toormina.

Where is the integrity and transparency?

DEAR News Of The Area,

HOW can Caz Heise be independent when she is receiving so much funding from Climate 200?

The amount of funding and advertising

is obscene and is on multiple platforms. Climate 200 on their site writes: “Cowper has been a National Party stronghold for over 100 years, but in 2022, Caz' community campaign came within 2,600 votes of winning, making

Cowper the most marginal Nationals seat in the country.”

Given Climate 200 has targeted this and many marginal seats, what is it that they demand for their candidates like Caz Heise?

Taking credit for Labor funding

DEAR News Of The Area,

HAVE you noticed that whenever NSW State Labor or Federal Labor give grants or funding in our region, National party MPs

(Gurmesh Singh, Pat Conaghan and Michael Kemp) appear in the local media?

Is this to create the impression that they have something to do with these grants/ funding?

Very cheeky taking credit for something Labor has provided to our regional areas.

On that note, I have also noticed that every time a grant is given to the Bellingen Shire Council, Michael Kemp is always in the

How can she be independent?

Where is the integrity and transparency?

Regards, Bruce WHACKETT, Coffs Harbour.

photo or made a comment in the media.

I think someone in the Council has Mr Kemp on speed dial despite some Councillors stating they were running on a non-political platform.

I don’t think so…

Regards, Sharon GRAINGER, Urunga.

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The space is enhanced by a generous walk-in pantry.

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Bedrooms two and three also feature carpeted flooring, two-door robes, ceiling fans, and blinds, providing ample space for the entire family.

The thoughtfully designed three-way

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Convenience is further enhanced with an additional separate toilet nearby the European-style laundry located next to the bathroom, equipped with a sink and space for both a washing machine and dryer.

Additional features of this delightful home include a two-door linen cupboard in the hallway, a study nook with space for a desk, and a smoke alarm for peace of mind.

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This is the question for the new owner! This comfortable 3 bedroom residence is located just a short stroll from the

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LOCALSPORT

Regional Super League draw announced

By Aiden BURGESS

NORTH Coast Football (NCF) teams have discovered who they will play in the opening round of the inaugural Northern NSW Regional Super League (NNSW RSL).

The inaugural NNSW RSL will kick off on Saturday, 10 May with the pilot competition featuring men’s and women’s leagues made up of eight teams, featuring two pools of four teams.

The competition, which runs separately to the normal NCF season, will pit Coffs Coast teams against clubs from the Football Mid North Coast and NNSWF – Northern Inland associations.

Last season’s NCF Premier League champions Northern

Storm hit the road to take on Port Saints FC in the opening round.

Last season’s runners up Woolgoolga United will also hit the road for their opening round match, as they travel to take on Inverell FC.

Urunga Raiders play host to the Macleay Valley Rangers in the opening round.

Round 1 also sees Armidale City Westside FC hosting Port United FC.

The NNSW RSL women’s competition also kicks off on Saturday, 10 May.

Last season’s Premier League champions Urunga Raiders are at home against Lake Cathie.

Last season’s preliminary finalists the Coffs City United Lionesses travel to take on

the Macleay Valley Rangers.

Armidale City Westside FC host local rivals Oxley Vale Attunga FC, and Tamworth FC host Port United FC

NNSWF General Manager Liam Bentley said the new competition was an exciting step forward for football in the region.

“The establishment of the Northern NSW Regional Super League is an exciting step forward for football across regional northern NSW,” he said.

“The competition will extend the pathways for regional players and clubs as well as create a platform for talented regional players to showcase their talent.”

Junior cricket continues into winter

By Aiden BURGESS

JUST because it’s no longer summer, doesn't mean the cricket should stop.

Cricket Association is hosting junior social indoor cricket games during May and June at Sportz Central. The eight rounds of games get underway on Monday, 5 May. The games are being held each Monday afternoon, with one-hour games from either 4pm-5pm, or 5pm-6pm.

Coffs Harbour District

q

The social games are for boys and girls aged between 5 and 12 years old, and no helmets or pads are required.

Any junior interested in playing can register at https://www.playhq.com/ cricket-australia/register/ b31428

There were two Under 12s competitions this past Sixers Cricket league season, with the Macksville Bulls winning the first and Bellingen Green winning the second.

An Under 8s competition was also held this past summer.

Nana Glen Lizards won the Under 16s competition, and Sawtell Storm won the Under 14s competition.

Coffs Harbour District Association is hosting two school holiday programs in Coffs Harbour and Macksville.

By Bruce WORBOYS

THE Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby continues this Friday, 11 April, when the Japan Under 23s side takes on the Australian Under 20s at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

The match follows another international fixture last Saturday, in which the Japanese Under 23s held on against a fast-finishing Australian Barbarians side 43–31 in front of a 3,000-plus crowd in perfect conditions.

This Friday’s game will serve as key preparation for the Australian Under 20s ahead of the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy

An All-Girls Color Bash Cricket Program is being held on Saturday, 12 April at Reg Ryan Oval. The program is for girls aged between 5 and 14, and is designed to introduce girls to cricket in a non-traditional way.

from 29 June-19 July.

Australian coach and former Wallaby Chris Whitaker knows exactly what to expect on Friday.

“The game will be fast, no doubt about that,” he said.

“The Japan side showed great speed through hands and feet against the Baa Baas and we will need to counter that.”

This is the first game for the Australian side and Whitaker will be looking for combinations in attack and defence.

The team has come together from all over Australia and the week in camp in Coffs Harbour should

A school holiday cricket clinic is being held at Phillip Hughes Oval on Wednesday, 16 April, for boys and girls aged between 7 and 14.

Duo excels at National Championships International rugby at C.ex Stadium

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Coast duo Felix Clarke

and Dala Willoughby have had a tournament to remember at the recent Australian Youth Beach Volleyball Championships at Coolangatta Beach.

The pair finished seventh out of 25 teams in the Under 18 girls event, and topped their pool after the second day.

Felix and Dala were honoured to represent both their state and the Coffs Coast region.

“It’s really important for me coming from a regional

club and it feels really great to represent NSW,” Felix said.

“It is really inspiring for other regional people who I’ve met and played with or against in our part of NSW.

“Just to show people that you can do it if you have enough grit and determination to pave your own way.”

Dala said both her and Felix being from the same region helped the pair at the National Championships.

“We were able to focus on getting the connection on the beach,” she said.

“Being around the bigger team is great because they can help cheer you on, or they can

help you with anything.

“You can ask them questions about their experiences in previous competitions because they’ve played against people we’re coming up against as well.

“Coming into this event, we were both intimidated by how we would rank against everyone our age.

“We spent a lot of preparation playing against older and more experienced beach volleyball athletes, but we idolised them and it has been great to see what has rubbed off on us from these sessions, and now we’re bringing it to our own games.”

ensure a strong performance. Japan coach Eddie Jones was happy with the performance on Saturday, particularly the first half.

“Our defence in the first half was excellent and this allowed us to put together some great attacking play, which is what Japan is well known for.

“In the second half we fell off a bit allowing the Baa Baas to force their way back into the game.

“We will have to be better this week.”

Entry to Friday’s game is free.

Kick off is at 5pm.

q Urunga Raiders play host to the Macleay Valley Rangers from Kempsey in the opening round. Pictured is Rangers player Reece Coleman.

q Felix Clarke and Dala Willoughby in action at the Australian Youth Beach Volleyball Championships.

The Australian Barbarians and Japan Under 20s.

Bombers blast back to beat Breakers in first-half frenzy

By David WIGLEY

IN a thrilling clash at Ayrshire Park on Saturday, the Boambee Bombers launched a fierce comeback to edge past the Yamba Breakers 3-2 in a first-half frenzy that saw five goals hit the back of the net.

The Breakers, making their mark in the Men’s Premier League as newcomers, were electric from the get-go, seizing the initiative with a series of early opportunities.

Harry Menzies opened the scoring in the eighth minute, firing a shot into the top corner to give Yamba the early 1-0 advantage.

across goal to double the Breakers’ lead to 2-0.

Power-Casson’s celebration was one to remember as he slid towards the away fans, sending the Yamba faithful into raptures.

But the Bombers weren’t about to roll over.

After some initial shock, Boambee responded with relentless pressure, and it wasn’t long before right-back John Rowe found the back of the net from close range to halve the deficit to 2-1.

The match took another turn when veteran striker Luke France, a constant menace in the Yamba box, was fouled by the goalkeeper to win a penalty.

five-minute goal blitz for the Bombers, firing home to give Boambee a 3-2 lead that would ultimately prove decisive.

In a contest that had everything, Boambee emerged victorious, with a second-half performance that showed resilience, determination, and the hunger for a hard-earned three points.

It was with a sigh of relief Boambee player/ coach Lachie Moye took the three points after bouncing back from the Yamba bombardment.

Mitch Brewster made no mistake, sending the keeper the wrong way to make it 2-2.

Two minutes later, Lachie Moye capitalised on a frantic

“Relieved to do just enough to earn the win on Saturday, in what was a very hot day on a heavy field for both sides,” reflected Moye.

“We started the match too casually in the first 20 minutes, and credit to Yamba

who took advantage of this, they are a good competitive side.

“The biggest positive I take from this match is the way we reacted to being two

goals down, scoring three goals in about eight minutes, a promising sign going forward.

“We will have to be better for the full 90 minutes next

Snappers smash Marlins in local derby

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour Snappers have started their premiership defence in resounding style beating the SCU Marlins 36-8 in their opening round match at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

A dominant first half set up the win as the Snappers earned early bragging rights in taking out their first local derby of the season.

The match was part of the inaugural Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby, and the opening round of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.

The Snappers opened

the scoring in the fifth minute, and led 10-3 after 20 minutes.

The Snappers gained the early ascendancy, grinding away to gain the territory advantage.

A try from a charge down gave the defending premiers a 17-3 lead.

The Marlins started to show some fightback spending time in their attacking half, but the Snappers extended their lead to 24-3 after a sweeping move out wide.

The Snappers were in again shortly before halftime to make it 29-3, as they again attacked out wide for a great

long range try.

Points were at a premium in the second half, as the game became a defensive stalemate.

The Marlins started the half strongly and threatened, but the Snappers defence remained staunch as it did for most of the match.

The Snappers broke the shackles in the 67th minute to extend the lead to 36-3.

A consolation try to the Marlins made it 36-8 with five minutes to go.

Snappers player/coach Mitch Walton was proud of his side's defensive efforts.

“Defensively we were up and about, and to have a few

new guys in the squad and to defend like that, very happy, and any time you can keep a team under double digits is always a good day,” he said.

“Marlins aren't going to go away, it’s a local derby and they are pretty well drilled and we knew that, we just weathered their storm and then we can jump into our rhythm and go from there.”

He was happy with their start to the season after a less-than-ideal preseason.

“We’ve had a bit of a disjointed start to the year, we started preseason after Christmas this year, and it was just a little bit disjointed, guys playing in other places

and then coming back to start our season, so I was very happy with our win.”

He noticed the differences playing at a venue in which they had no familiarity.

“Playing at the stadium it’s tough for the kickers as there’s no real landmarks to kick to, and obviously it’s not a rectangle, theres a few little things like that, and I’d implore the Council if we can get on here more it would be a really good thing to do.”

Walton praised the concept of the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby.

“I think it’s a fantastic idea and it showcases that

there's an appetite for rugby in Coffs Harbour,” he said.

“People really like it, and it’s good to get the rivalries out here with the Marlins and the Snappers, and I’m all for it and I think it’s fantastic.”

The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season continues this weekend with Round 2 games.

Coffs Harbour Snappers hit the road for their grand final rematch against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Port Macquarie.

SCU Marlins are at home against the Grafton Redmen at Southern Cross University.

30 years of the Australian Bluewater

Freediving Classic

Fifteen minutes later, a well-worked move saw Jarrett Power-Casson rise high to meet a looping cross, sending a bullet header spokesperson Tom Sandstrom said.

THE 2025 Australian Bluewater Freediving Classic was held over the weekend, marking 30 years since the event first launched in 1995.

Now recognised as one of the most prestigious bluewater competitions in Australia, the Classic is centred on the selective harvest of fast-growing pelagic species, with strict rules to promote sustainable, ethical spearfishing.

“This year marks 30 years for the Coffs Harbour Freedivers hosting one of Australia’s premiere spearfishing events along the spectacular coastline of the Solitary Islands Marine Park,” Classic committee

“The Classic continues to draw some of the country's best spearfishers to the Coffs Coast for a celebration of community, sustainability, and ocean adventure.

“Based out of Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, the event brings together divers, families, and the broader community to share freshly caught seafood and raise funds through a fish auction for Marine Rescue Woolgoolga.”

What began in 1995 as a grassroots competition has grown into a worldrenowned event thanks to the unwavering support of the City of Coffs Harbour

Council, local business Thwaites Marine, and a host of generous sponsors.

“After all these years, the heart of Classic remains unchanged, to honour the ocean, support local services, and build a community connected by a love for sustainable spearfishing and seafood,” Mr Sandstrom said.

“While not all divers landed fish, the best divers from five divisions took home a range of prizes that we couldn’t have been offered without the generous support from all our sponsors.”

For results, photos, and more on the Classic’s 30year history visit www. chbfreedivers.com.

week facing Coffs United away,” Moye said.

The Bombers kick off at 5pm on Saturday 12 April at Forsyth Park against their old rivals Coffs United Lions.

q Aaron Puckeridge from Sydney (left) was the winner of the Senior Division.

q Boambee right-back John Rowe led the fightback, scoring his side's first goal.

AFL season gets underway

By Aiden BURGESS

AUSSIE Rules is set for its return to the region with the AFL North Coast season getting underway this weekend.

Sawtell/Toormina Saints host the Macleay Valley Eagles to begin their season, as they take on an Eagles team who will no doubt be fired up and on an emotional high.

It will be the Eagles first seniors’ game in 10 years, as they make their return to the AFL North Coast competition.

The Saints were knocked

out at the Preliminary Final stage last season, as they look to win their first premiership since 2018.

Port Macquarie Magpies begin their premiership defence in Grafton, as they travel to take on the Grafton Tigers who were knocked out in the first week of the finals last season.

Last season’s runners-up, the Coffs Harbour Breakers, have the opening round bye.

The Breakers play their first game of the season in Round 2 against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints at

Richardson Park.

The Breakers look for their first premiership since 2019.

Sawtell/Toormina Saints women begin their premiership defence at home, when they play host to the Port Macquarie Magpies at Richardson Park.

Sawtell/Toormina Saints

Under 18s start their tilt for three straight premierships by taking on the Port Macquarie Magpies at Richardson Park.

Northern Beaches Blues and Coffs Harbour Breakers Under 18s and women’s teams both play off at the Wiigulga Sports Complex in the opening round.

The reserves season begins in Round 2 on Saturday, 26 April, with the Coffs Harbour Breakers beginning their premiership

defence against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints at Richardson Park.

This season will see the top three teams on the

ladder playing finals, with the minor premiers straight through to the grand final, and preliminary finals to start the finals series.

AFL North Coast junior season begins

By Aiden BURGESS

AFTER waiting eight long months to play, Coffs Coast’s Aussie Rules juniors once

again took to the field for the opening round of the AFL North Coast’s junior season.

A record 55 teams will

play this season, having increased from 30 in 2021.

Skye Murphy is one of those junior players who love taking to the field each

q Bellingen Bulldogs and Sawtell/Toormina Saints Youth Girls 17s players come together after their match at Richardson Park.

Sunday.

Playing for her beloved Sawtell/Toormina Saints in the Youth Girls 17s competition, she explained why she loved the sport and her club.

“I just think it’s a bunch of fun, it’s quite a friendly sport even though it can look a bit rough,” she said.

“It’s not too difficult for beginners, you can pick it up quite quickly, and there's

Basketball grand finalists decided

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour’s best basketball teams have earned grand final berths by winning the semi-finals of Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior summer season.

Grand finalists were decided during the semi-finals at Sportz Central.

Men’s A Grade minor

premiers Beyond TowingCoffs Harbour earned a grand final berth with a 56-39 win against The Chihuahuas.

Lachlan Gough had a game high 16 points for the winners.

Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s Men 1 earned a grand final berth with a 69-52 win against All Washed Up.

James Nebo had a game high 17 points for the winners.

Men’s B Grade minor premiers Spoons qualified for the grand final with a 64-50 win against Sawtell Slammers.

Jack Squires had a game high 19 points for the Slammers, and Joseph Moran top scored for the winners with 18 points.

Sweet Home Wembanyama progressed to the grand final after a 48-37 win against Can’t

Catch a Breath.

Nic Tobin had a game high 21 points for the winners.

Men’s C Grade minor premiers Hoop Troop made the grand final after having a 36-31 win against The Pingas. Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Men 1 earned a grand final berth with a 47-38 win against Mantastic.

Women’s A Grade minor

always room to improve in everything.

“I think the Saints are a beautiful club, everyone's here and everyone's happy to work together and chip in, and everyone is so lovely around the club.”

Having started her fourth season in girls competitions, she gave her thoughts on the thriving female game on the North Coast.

“I think we’ve got a bright future ahead, considering only a few years ago we had only one Youth Girls competition, now we have the Under 13, Under 15s, and Under 17s Youth Girls teams,”

premiers Narwhals Loaded booked their place in the grand final with an 86-44 win against Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Women 2.

Brooke Seccombe had a game high 25 points for the winners, and Georgia Kuchel was next best with 24 points.

Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s Women 1 beat Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Women 1, 71-16, in their semifinal.

Kira Juffermans had a game

she said.

“It’s been a good growth, especially Sawtell, as at the start of last year I was the only girl signed up to play for the Under 17s, but then we had a full team straight away as we asked around for players and they were keen to play.

“And you can really see it ramping up in the women’s competition as well, because as more people come and start playing junior footy, we can see the women’s ramp up as well.

“I think it’s going to be an amazing sporting scene and only going to get better.”

high 31 points for the winners. Women's social competition minor premiers Ring Ins had a 33-29 win against Mantas Mummas in their semi-final.

Mantas Mystics moved into the grand final after a 37-34 win against Mantas Mermaids. Brooke Dart top scored for the winners with 18 points. Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior grand finals were set to be decided this week at Sportz Central.

Woolgoolga excels at state and national level

By Aiden BURGESS

WOOLGOOLGA Surf Life Saving club members have achieved top results at the recent Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, and the NSW Surf Life Saving Championships.

The club had five athletes compete at the Australian Surf Life Saving Nipper and Youth Championships on the Gold Coast.

They included Bailey Johnson, Lily-Mei Wong, Zara Johnson, Olivia Kelly and Khloe Pepper.

Lily Mei and Bayley finished as semi-finalists in the Swimming event.

Zara finished in the quarter finals of the board event, Olivia finished eighth

in the sprint final, and Khloe finished as a semi-finalist in the Swimming and Board event.

A number of the club's Nippers also achieved top results at the NSW Surf Life Saving Championships at Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club.

NSW Surf Life Saving Championships results:

Under 9s: Oliver Pacheco6th Flags, 7th Sprint finals.

Under 10s: Mia Brown3rd Flags, 7th Sprint finals. Harry May- 9th Swim, 18th Board. Mia Brown, Lucas Pacheco, Oliver Pacheco, Parker Skibba- 8th Sprint relay finals.

Under 11s: Evie SuttonSwim final, Semi Sprint.

Under 12s: Hugh Morgan,

Kalarni Brown, Bobby McGuiggan - 10th Board relay. Hugh Morgan- 5th 1km Run. Angus Morgan - 13th 1km run. Hugh Morgan, Kalarni Brown - 6th 2@500m run relay. Angus Morgan, Bobby McGuiggan - 13th 2@500m run relay. Brooklynn Graham

- 21st Iron Person final, 7th Board semi. Eliza Kelly - 19th Flags Under 13s: Khloe Pepper-

10th Swim final, Board Semi. Under 14s: Olivia Kelly1st Flags. Logan Anderson8th Flags, 17th Sprint. Noah

q Zara Johnson, Lily-Mei Wong, Bailey Johnson and Khloe Pepper at the Australian Surf Life Saving Nipper and Youth Championships.

q Olivia Kelly.

q Sawtell/Toormina Saints women begin their premiership defence at home.

Anderson - 16th Sprint. Logan Anderson, Noah Anderson, Olivia Kelly, Scarlett Hazeldene - Sprint relay final.

Cex Coffs Bowls Club

By Mary BUCKLEY

THE final of our Club Major Singles was played between Ardis Ellsmore and Mary Buckley. A very close game all the way, with each player scoring ‘shot for shot’ throughout the game. The final end came down to 24 all with each player only needing to score one point to be the winner. Ardis had three around the jack and looked like the winner, but Mary came in with her final bowl and sat on the jack!!! Congratulations Ardis and Mary – some fabulous bowls played and a great game to watch,

CEX Woolgoolga Lawn Bowls

By Suzanne BRACHER

WOOLGOOLGA managed to get some games in with all the rain, and it so great that they have finally had the top green repaired.

Tuesday 25/3/25 (AM) Fours- D

Coffs Harbour Bridge Club Results

By Nerellyn MTCHELL

FEBRUARY 24th - NS B Johns, R Aitken; EW M Jil Hosie, J Isaacs

Feb 25th - P Jonutz, H Eyers

Feb 26th - NS N Williams, D Hickie; EW M Angus, H Rowsell

Feb 28th - NS H Pitt, F Gaunt; EW C Brown, J Burrows

March 1st - NS J Burrows, P Lee; EW P Houlton, E Colley

Woolgoolga Swimming Club

By Joan ANDERSON

RECENTLY Woolgoolga Swimming Club Inc. (WSCI) wrapped up the 2024/25 season with their AGM followed by presentation at Safety Beach Golf Club, a pleasing number of members, parents and guardians were in attendance.

The AGM was a resounding success with many adults being nominated for the club board with office bearers to be appointed, from the board, at the next scheduled meeting. In the meantime,

Coffs Table Tennis Results

By Margaret ILES

FRIDAY 4th April, 2025 Division 1

Lachlan Dierkx d George Ruaporo 3/1, Paul Hendriks d Tim Garrad 3/2, Reece Baker d George Ruaporo 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Tim Garrad 3/1, Reece Baker d Tim Garrad 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Paul Hendriks 3/0, Reece Baker d Paul Hendriks 3/0, Tim Garrad d George Ruaporo 3/1, Reece Baker d Lachlan Dierkx 3/2, Paul Hendriks d George Ruaporo 3/1. WINNER: Reece Baker from Lachlan Dierkx. Division 2

Sharee Templeton d Nick Jankovic 3/2, Char Berglund d Patrick Howard 3/0, King McKie d Nick Jankovic 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Patrick Howard 3/0, King McKie d Patrick Howard 3/0, Char Berglund d Sharee Templeton 3/2, King McKie d Char Berglund 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Patrick

kept everyone on the edge of their seats!!

Also got some social games played through March, despite the hot, humid and wet weather.

Thursday 13th March: Round 3 Major Singles: Mary Buckley d Robyn Groundwater 25-18; Ardis Ellsmore d Di De La Cruz 25-23.

Social: Joce Landrey, Joan Griffin, Chris Irvine d Joce Landrey(s), Maureen Cotsell, Jan Appleton 20-14.

Tuesday 18th March: Final Major Singles: Mary Buckley d Ardis Ellsmore 25-24. Social: Margaret Stocks, Chris Irvine, Jeanette Kutz, Dot Heron d Margaret Stock(s), Jen Armstrong,

Mahoney , J Hampstead, H Dunbar, N Haines (D) E Nielsen, M Campos, J Lynn, J Merchant.

Tuesday 1/4/25 (AM)

Consistancy: J Hampstead (53), J Merchant (38), H Dunbar (35). Triples: J Lynn, M Campos, N Haines (D)

Tuesday 1/4/25 (PM) Game

Played Pairs: Rink 1: D Mason, S

March 3rd - NS H Pitt, F Gaunt; EW M Angus, M Hodges

March 4th - D Featherstone, N McIvor

March 5th - NS H Eyers, M Jil Hosie; EW D Hickie, N Williams

March 10th - A NS N Williams, J Burrows; EW M Jil Hosie, J Isaacs - B G Battershell, L Powells

March 11th - D Featherstone, N McIvor

March 12th - NS J Burrows, T Cooper; EW J Stimpson, H Chalk

the juniors had a wonderful time playing around the grounds of the club fueled by complimentary soft drink.

With the weekly Monday night meets eagerly contested members were allocated points for improvement and participation. There were some outstanding results across the board and all swimmers should be congratulated for their efforts throughout the season.

The presentation consisted of 9 categories overall. The highest point scorer (club champion)also had the honour of lifting the Presidents shield which dates back to 1981. The awards presented were

Howard 3/2, King McKie d Sharee Templeton 3/0, Char Berglund d Nick Jankovic 3/1. WINNER: King McKie from Char Berglund. Division 3

Aiden Haigh d Lindsay Jones 3/0, Boyd McGregor d Jo Ellis 3/0, Boyd McGregor d Lindsay Jones

Park Beach Bowls Club Results

By Doug POWELL

SOCIAL Triples Tuesday 1/4/25 Stone, S. Clouten, B. Smith d T. Aarts, C. Domjohn, I. Trengove 19-16

D, Catling, R. Wisely, B. Trotman d J. McLeod, C. Keough, D. Hull 2710

T, Brown, J. Clarke, S. Jones d K. Bienfelt, D. Walker., J. Stirton 22-15 W. Grimshaw, J. Robinson, N. McVicar d M. England, E. Kidd, C. England 21-9

Macca, P. Elliot, K. Morrison d C. Hansen, R, Coffey, M. Flint 20-11 N. Dean, W. Moore, R. Oakley d

SPORT RESULTS

Graham Cowell, Di De La Cruz 14-7.

Thursday 20th March: Margaret Stocks, Patricia Lumley, Joan Griffin, Jeanette Kutz d Sue Wilson, Jen Armstrong, Robyn Groundwater, Dot Heron 19-12.

Tuesday 25th March: Jen Armstrong, Margaret Stocks, Mary Buckley d Jim Down, Ardis Ellsmore, Chris Irvine 14-10; Beryl Foster, Joan Griffin, Jeanette Kutz d Beryl Foster(s), Laine Down, Sue Wilson 23-6.

Thursday 27th March: Laine Down, Robyn Groundwater, Sue Wilson d Margaret Stocks, Maureen Cotsell, Joan Griffin 14-9; Joce Landrey, Mary Buckley d Jim Down, Jeanette Kutz 10-9.

Dodd (D) R Shaw, P Wroe. Rink 2: G McInerney, C Davis (D) R Bennell, L Walsh. Rink 3: L Walsh, S Oliver (D) J Weston, B Merchant. Rink 4: J Wilcox, M Hopes (D) J Gibbins, Fred C. Rink 5: P Diamond, J Taylor (D) R Ryan, G Cunningham. Rink 6: T McKenzie, P Buck (D) R Gurber, A Wroe. Rink 7: D Barnard, M Hodge, G Pallister (D) S Barnard,

March 14th - NS H Pitt, F Gaunt; EW B Johns, R Aitkens

March 15th - J Parker, W Wilkins; EW L Powells, G Battershell

March 17th - A NS B Herring, C Tolley; EW M Jil Hosie, J Isaacs - B NS H Blewitt, M Rogers; EW J Abbey, P Quinlan

March 18th - L Ingham, D Ingham

March 19th - NS D O’Meara, S Dilosa; EW B Hagsma, P Quinlan

March 21st - NS I Doland, S

as follows;

Club Champions

1st Milly Hutton

2nd Alexis Keating

3rd Cooper Harris

Mini Stars

Troy Martin

Eadie Blanshard

7 years and under 1st Ivy Hoskins

2nd Emerald Fidge

3rd Huxley Duff

8 years

1st Mila Blanshard

2nd Bailey Harris

3rd Harlow Duff

9 years

1st Piper Burke

2nd Jacsie Martin

3/0, Aiden Haigh d Jo Ellis 3/1, Boyd McGregor d Aiden Haigh 3/0, Jo Ellis d Lindsay Jones 3/1. WINNER: Boyd McGregor from Aiden Haigh.

Always looking for new players and members.

D. Powell, M. Berube, P. Lilly 22-17

J. Murtas, V. Valentine, P. Rambow d S. Kindred, J. Woodford, K. Kaaden 25-19

G. Williams, R. Beaumont, G. Hinsley d R. Aitken, K. Elliot, B. Johns 28-9

Club Minor Pairs Championship Semi Finals

B. Nicholson, D. Wilson d C. Weatherall, R. Alford 26-12

J. Thorn, G. Hinsley d R. McWha, P. Guilfoyle 23-14

Final

An enthralling game decided on the last end.

J. Thorn, G. Hinsley d B. Nicholson, D. Wilson 20-17

N Wills, J Martin.

Friday 5/4/25: (PM) 2.4.2 . Rink 1: A Plain, N Willis, J Brooks (D) E Pearce, R Gurber, B Merchant. Rink 2: J Lynn, S Oliver (D) N Haynes, J Hampstead. Rink 3: J Gibbons, C Davis, ( D) J Burgess, K Costelloe. Rink 4: L Walsh, D Barnard (D) S Hancox, D Hancox. Rink 5: A Wroe, R Shaw (D) D Hodge, S Barnard.

Dilosa; EW A Schwarz, T Schwarz

March 22nd - NS A Schwarz, T Schwarz; EW B Hagsma, W Rogers

March 24th - A NS C Tolley, B Herring; EW A Schwarz, T Schwarz - B P Guthrie, S Paff

March 25th - M Johnson, D Johnson

March 26th - NS N Williams, D Hickie; EW A Anderson, D Anderson

March 28th - NS I Doland, S Dilosa; EW T Schwarz, A Schwarz

March 29th - NS D

3rd Lilian Stone

10 years

1st Bonnie Harris

2nd Beau Besent

3rd Ash Hoskins

11 years and over

1st Eddie Hutton

2nd Diego Moreno

3rd Nina Kellaman

Encouragement Award Medals

Anisha Kellahan

Elizabeth Hadlow

Harvey Keating

Matilda Maley

Huey McInerney

Toby Fidge

Indi Hoskins

Josie Fidge

Elayna Garrett

SSAA Benchrest Results

By Rod MADELEY

DAIRYVILLE range. Event was Rimfire Silhouettes: Jake 48. Matt 48. John 46. Jim 42. Sarah 42. Steve 42. Gus 40. Aaron 30. Event was 100yds Centrefire Group: Hunting rifle: Skye Squires

Coffs Harbour Rifle Club

By Geoffrey HART

APRIL 02 - Howard St Rimfire Range. The 90m Field Class match was conducted with 14 participants. Master Grade: Jake Buckley 97.8, A Grade: Phillip Payne 73.1, B Grade: Member-440 71.5, Jonathon Mackay 60.1, Col Green 57.0, C Grade: Andrew G 74.0, Matthew Mawby 59.0, Zac Huls 54.0, Member-854 45.0, Matt Miller 45.0, Member-926 43.1, Phil Hartmann 36.1, Sineidin Mackay 30.1, Visitors: Scott S (using a rest) 91.6

Rink 6: L Walsh, Fred C (D) Fred C. Rink 7: J Taylor, P Buck (D) H Schultz, R Bennell.

Also on the 5/4/2025

Woolgoolga played open championships fours final. Winner J Clarke, D Mason, M Stewart and S Dodd. Runners up D Chandlers, M Lambert, C Latham and B Merchant.

Featherstone, M Featherstone; EW J Buganey, C Denney

March 31st - A NS R Roark, D O’Meara; EW F Morvant, B Brebner - B NS M Jil Hosie, J Isaacs; EW B Butler, M Pailthorpe

April 1st - D Featherstone, N McIvor

April 2nd - NS L Power, M Rogers; EW J Stimpson, H Chalk

April 4th - NS H Pitt, F Gaunt; EW M Pailthorpe, J Abbey

April 5th - NS R Roark, S Dilosa; EW C Tilley, A Brentnall

Billie Martin

Harper Nightingale

Mia Brown

Kalani Brown

Masters

Alison Fidge

Grace Hadlow

Todd McInerney

WSCI would like to thank all the members, volunteers, sponsors, parents, guardians and the northern beaches community for their ongoing support throughout year.

The club’s aim is to continue promoting swimming in the local area and welcomes any new members for next season commencing in September 2025.

.5638, sg .254. Mike M. .8406, sg .397. Custom: Peter McGrath .2240, sg .190. Alistair McMillan .2430, sg .094. Michael Thompson .2762, sg .165. Rob Hamilton .2908, sg .197. Keiran Grabham .2944, sg .195. Ray Beavis .3120, sg .170. Ian Thompson .3272, sg .222. Peter Fleming .3282, sg .251. Gary Hunt .4114, sg .267.

The 50m F-Class match was conducted with 8 participants. Jessica Hancock 199.14, Cherelle Steinhardt 194.6, Jake Buckley 189.6, Zac Huls 189.4, Phil Hartmann 188.2, Member-926 176.4, Member-854 90.0, Visitors: Mirah Miller 170.2 April 06 - Dairyville Range 200m Centrefire match was conducted with 10 participants. Master Grade: Jake Buckley 98.10, B Grade: Member-677 92.4, Tony Bowling 91.5, Noel Furness 85.3, Cherelle Steinhardt 81.1, Jon Brown 77.4, C Grade: Lucas G 92.4, Mark Pelmore 77.2, Pete C 59.0, Brendon P 27.0

q Mary Buckley Major Singles winner with Ardis Ellsmore, runner-up.

Sawtell Bowls Results

By Geoff HAMPSON

REMINDER: Over 60s Bowls to be held at Redrock on Monday 14th

April

MONDAY Twilight Bowls

31/3/25

B. Tremayne. B Connors, K Taylor DEF T, Wright, R Hampson P Roach

J Chapman, N Elford, C Christian

DEF K Mason, A Day, G Hampson

R Avery, L Kratz, M Flint DEF S Cook, P Day, B Eden

A Waters, J Knight, B Kennedy

DEF E Korchma, J Knight, D Ryan

D Beedie, J Cherne DEF S Kennedy, S Beedie

TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls

1/4/25

G Pickard, B Eden DEFD B

Coffs Harbour District Darts

By Ray BEASLAY

SAWTELL RSL Club

Summer Comp

Monday 31 March

DILLIGAF def Fluke Shots 7-2

Bull Finish def Thunderstruck 8-1

Surgical Steel def Warriors 5-4

Bad Habbits - Bye

180s

Dean (1)

100s

Brittany (2)

Elaine (1)

Karen C (2)

Asttan (2)

Bob (2)

Chris (2)

Park Beach Women’s Bowls Club

By Chris KEOGH

WEDNESDAY 2nd April

No games due to wet weather.

Friday 4th April

K Elliot,J Slater def A Stone, C Treharne 22/9. D Doyle, Darren Lindner def Leonie Loadsman, Robyn DeMeio 29/9. Monica Parker, Ian Parker def Michael Cutt, John Murtas 35/7. Tom Lainsbury, Lindy McLeod def P Elliot, Tom Aarts 21/12. M England, P Poulton def C England, E Kidd 17/6. V

Woopi Monday Vets Golf

By Shirley STRAUCH

MONDAY 7th. April 2025 29 starters

Winner Gary Richards 33

R/U John Findlay34

2nd. R/U c/b Gary Tolhurst NTP 10th. Gary Richards Di Richards NTP 12th. Geoff Thompson Sue Kempnich

Coffs Harbour Golf Club Monday Vets

By Vicki SILVER

MONDAY 7th April, 2025

Great weather brought 48 members and two visitors to the course today, resulting in the following:

Gents: John Miles 19 c/b

Ken Barber 19c/b

Phil Mackay 19 c/b

James McIntosh 19

Gents Ball Comp: Jeff Howlett 18 c/b

SPORT RESULTS

Connors, N Feltrin

A Day J Wheeler, N Foy DEF L Kratz, D Ide, M Sharman

TUESDAY 1/4/25 Ladies Triple Championships

N Elford, J Partridge, J Townsend (22) DEF H Muir, N Harvey, C Hill (21)

WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 2/4/25 Cancelled Due to Weather Conditions

FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls 4/4/25

G Stauntan-Latimer J Richie, B Blight DEF D Melia, D Holland, A Baker

G Flynn, J Flynn, D Hyde DFF J Brown, J Smithers, B Fitzpatrick

G Peel, M Flint, W Meadows DEF M Gibbons, A Jones, B Martin

J Urge, M Saillard, T Karam DEF P Day, G Fisher, S Sillar

N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Townsend

Christian (1)

Craig S (1)

Dean (5)

Jeremy (4)

Kurt (1)

Paul (4)

Reg (2)

Ricky (2)

Steve (2)

Trevor (1)

Will (2)

High pegs

Trevor (56)

Leader Board

Surgical Steel 41

DILLIGAF 40

Bull Finish 37

Bad Habbits 36

Warriors 35

Fluke Shots 31

Thunderstruck 19

Sawtell RSL Snooker Club

By Ken MASON

TUESDAY 1st April 2025

Main Draw Winners: - John Cornell - R/U Keith Mellalieu

Consolation Winners: - Dan Clark - R/U Brian Ng

Valentine, M Monck def C Sheridan, J Woodford 18/10. R Oakley, V Slater def Eddie, Greg 18/16. C Williamson, R Lane def R Jupp, S Jones 21/14. S Bailey, D Walsh def R Coffey, C Cutt 21/10.

NTP 15th. John Rogan

Dick Cooper took out the NAGA with a 50 & Robin Skinner the Frog with 28 putts

Just a heads up, if we are washed out next Monday as the forecast predicts, the following Monday will be Easter, therefore no play.

There were 2 great birdies carded to Gary Richards on the 11th & John Ragen on the 15th

Alan Garlin 18

Geoff Clerke 14 c/b

Ladies:

Susan Maione 23

Maureen Franklin 19

Lyn Whitelaw 18 c/b

Maria Lindsay 18 c/b

Ladies Ball Comp:

Anne Dew 18 c/b

Carlene Bath 18

Sandra Dollin 17 c/b

Nearest the pins:

3rd Hole: Carlene Bath & James

McIntosh

6th Hole: Carlene Bath & Jeff Howlett

Next week is a single stableford.

DEF G Hampson, L Taylor, D Ryan

T Brooks, R Cridge, A Taylor

DEF K Sharman, C Christian, A Berry

P North, N Foy, L North DEDF B Hamilton, H Muir, H Slater

M Friend, D Ide, N Wong DEF A

Safety Beach Women’s Golf Club

By Marilyn ELY

TUESDAY 1 April. There were no fools amongst the ladies who turned out to play the 2nd Monthly Medal round and Vets comp on Tuesday April 1at Safety Beach Golf Course. Marian Brading was the winner of the day with a great round, nett 70, gross 89.

Mid North Coast Veterans Golfers Association

By Colin CUTT

TUESDAY, 1st April, 61 MNC

Veteran Golfers competed in a single stableford at Nambucca Island Golf Course, which was in good condition considering the wet weather we had been experiencing.

A Grade: Winner – Stephen

Sawtell Golf Results

By Janet O’DOWD

1/4 MEDLEY Stableford Kane Hickey 38c/b, Josh Siebert 3, Wayne Farrell 37, Terry Rapley 36c/b. Balls to 33c/b. NTP 7 A: Greg White (pro pin), B: David Clements, C: Ivan Gayden

4/4 Stableford Anthony Zullo 36c/b

Coffs Harbour Ladies Golf

By Leah RAY

TUESDAY 1st APRIL SINGLE

STABLEFORD A GRADE WINNERS

- Chris Cuthbert 20, Elizabeth Brown 19 B GRADE WINNERS - Sue Girard 21, Jennifer Blake 17 (CB) NTPs - 22nd - Chris Cuthbert, Jenny Carson, 26th - Marilyn Waterhouse, Sue Girard SATURDAY 5th APRIL

Day, P Montgomery, R Williams

P Roach, D Anderson, L Preston DEF S Shaw, A Wagstaff, J Riced I Muller, L Zecchinati, N Lamond DEF J Chapman, E Nicolaou, G Zanchetta

These are great rounds considering the still very soft conditions.

NTP 4th Janelle Coleman, 7th Marian Brading, 9th Kim Batty, 11th Marian Brading.

Thank you Karina Bettison for donating the raffle won by Jo Elwood.

Tuesday 15 is an 18 Hole Stableford Shootout qualifier, Tuesday 22 is a Six, Six, Six game and 29th is Single Stableford.

McNeil 41, 1st runner-up Nev Newman 37 c/b, 2nd runner-up Dennis Hardgrove 37, 3rd runnerup Wayne Cormick 36.

B Grade: Winner – Phil Lynch 42, 1st runner-up Greg McLagan 35, 2nd runner-up Mike Raymond 34 c/b, 3rd runner-up John de Rouffignac 34.

NTP’s: 5th Ken Klem, 8th John Ward, 13th Robert Peel, 18th Ruth Hall.

Ball run to 32 pts.

5/4 Stableford Charles Bevan 41, Andrew Dent 37, Ken Higgins 36c/b, Aussie Foy 36c/b. Balls to 30c/b. NTP 7 A: Cameron Pollard, B: Chris Bevan, C: Dieder Galas. Pro pin Ken Higgins Ladies 18 Chris Constable 29. Ball to 24 Ladies 9 Susan Flint 15. Ball to 14. NTP Susan Flint. Sat Sal Jane Roser

SINGLE STABLEFORD LAKES

OVERALL WINNERS Annalese McKee 36, Gloria’s Hickey 33 (CB) NTPs - 3rd hole - Gloria Hickey, 6th - Jan Kirk, 12th - Annalese McKee, 15th - Annalese McKee, 22ndCarrie Fagan SATURDAY 5th APRIL

SINGLE STABLEFORD WESTLAKES

OVERALL WINNERS Di Stewart 41, Carrie Fagan 38 NTPs - 22nd holeCarrie Fagan, 26th - Di Stewart

Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Friday evening for publication on a Thursday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.

q Smuggler at the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race.

Leanne Clark came in second with 74 nett followed by Lyn Reilly 76 nett and Teresa King 77 nett.

q Sawtell Ladies Triple Champions L/R J Partridge, N Elford, J Townsend (Played on 1/4/2025).

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

John Hunter 6th April 2025

Passed away at Coffs

POWELL

Eileen ‘Sheila’

RANN, Ronald Eric

‘Ron’

ROBERTS

Diane Carol

As

was

his

at the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Karangi. Thankyou for the respect and care of John provided by the staff at Coffs Harbour Grange Care Community and the staff at Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

VICTOR RULLIS

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

16th March 2025, peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital, late of Coffs Harbour. Loving mother and mother-in-law of Ron & Robyn, Wayne & Allison, Lyn & the late Ross Muldoon, Sharon & Ram Tamang, Joanne & Steve Strange and Trevor & Marilou. Adored grandmother and great-grandmother of their children.

Aged 92 Years

Will Be Sadly Missed In Gods Care

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Sheila’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Tuesday 15th April 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.

Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

4th April 2025, passed away peacefully. Late of Bonville. Much loved father of Rick, Mark, Vicki and Karen. Long time friend of Muriel. Adored and loved pop of 12 grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren.

Aged 86 Years

Forever In Our Thoughts And Hearts

As per Ron’s wishes a private family Funeral Service was held, followed by private cremation at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Ron’s Memorial Service to be held in Bonville Memorial Hall, Bonville on Saturday 12th April 2025 from 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

1st April 2025, peacefully at St. Joseph’s Aged Care, Coffs Harbour. Much loved wife of Bill (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Alex and Felicity & Jon. Adored grandmother. Diane will be sadly missed by all that knew her.

Aged 83 Years

Forever In Our Hearts

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Diane’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 11th April 2025 commencing at 2.30 pm.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Mervyn Shervey

3rd April 2025

Beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, grandfather and friend. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

Aged 85 years Forever Dancing in Heaven

Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Mervyn’s funeral service to be held on Wednesday, 16th April 2025 at 2pm in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi. Please wear bright colours as Mervyn would have wanted.

VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

ROBERTSON Lillian

5th April 2025, peacefully at RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly of Merrylands and Fairfield, Sydney. Dearly beloved wife of David (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of David & Beverley (dec’d), Phillip & Carmel and Gregory. Loved sister of John and Rose (both dec’d).

Aged 98 Years In God’s Care

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Lillian’s Funeral Service to be held in St. John’s Anglican Church, Coffs Harbour on Monday 14th April 2025 commencing at 10.30 am, thence for interment in Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery, Karangi.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

WHITE

Robert George ‘Rob’

6th April 2025, peacefully passed away at Woolgoolga Retirement Village, formerly of Sandy Beach. Dearly beloved husband of Edith. Loving father and father-in-law of Laurie & Tracey, Doug & Renée and Eric (dec’d). Wonderful grandad of Elani, Bayley and Ben. Cherished brother, brother-in-law and uncle of their families.

Aged 86 Years

Finally At Peace

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Rob’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Monday 14th April 2025 commencing at 1.00 pm.

Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour

6652 1999

WILSON

Shirley Elaine

4th April 2025, passed away peacefully at Mater Christi Aged Care Facility, Toormina. Dearly beloved wife of Jack (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Rick & Barb, Kerry & Kerry, Trina & Troy and Luke (dec’d). Cherished grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of eighteen.

Aged 92 Years Reunited With Luke

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Shirley’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 11th April 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Notices

Revival Centres Church - Coffs Harbour -

Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed?

CWA Hall 3 Dalley St, Coffs Harbour Sundays 10.00 am Mobile 0427 949 206 - revivalcentres.org

For Lease

Commercial premises 2/19 Hyde St Bellingen 7m x 8m. Rent $350 per week plus 50% outgoings. Contact Ray White R/E 6657 1777

BBQ'S Galore turbo select BBQ with rotisserie, needs some work. 0467 640 964 F190724

ALEXANDER palms

1.5m tall several palms in each 10” pot $15 6652 8815

BODY Board, Manta Pro Comp Rail with leash, turns quick, Red/ Black, 44inch - 20 inch wide, VGC. $63. Ph 0417 471 225

BOOKS, Cleveland Bison, Weston paperbacks. Bundle of 25 - $75. Pick up only 0400 513 862

BUFFET/DISPLAY

cabinet solid timber exc cond, comes apart, pick up only No reasonable offer refused. 0418 278 966

CAMP oven 2qt new $25 (with accessories $40) 0439 682 267

For Sale

2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS sound bar only 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100. 0412 081 950 F240125

25 jigsaws, complete clean & boxed, $100 for all or $4 each 6651 2553 F070325

BUSINESSMAN seeks female aged 25 to 55 for friendship Adult conversation and activities. Martin 0439 421 335 Sat 12 & Sun 13 from 9am Cnr Royal Palm & Sabal Dr Sawtell. Tools Oxy, gardening, ladders furniture, household items, camping and more.

COFFS gent seeks lady 65-75 for friendship and outings. 0422 181 704 e110425

4981 8882

AIR mattresses, double and queen with elect pump. $50 the lot 0491 035 704

BAILEY Hercules Steel Ladder, 100kgs, 1.76 metres $50 0418 278 966

BAILEY Industrial Ladder Olympus 8, 120kgs, 2.4 metres $100 0418 278 966 F100125

CLOTHES Dryer Electric oven, Four 16” mag wheels 2 with tyres. 0448 802 146

GRANITE coffee table sitting on nice wrought iron frame 58cm L x 41cm W x 44cm H Perfect condition. $100 0491 035 704

GOLF Clubs Left Hand Full set with bag, brand new $350 or best offer 0408 653 970

HARDWOOD Timber Decking 90 x 18 mm pre nailed approx. 25 sq. metres Various lengths up to 3 m $100 Ph:Steve 0408 462 447

HEAVY duty glass table top. 90cm Diameter x 1cm thick $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119 F140225

HOOVER EVC500

BAMBOO wireless keyboard. Something different. New in box. $35 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119 F140225

BLACK and Decker Rebating Planer 650W unused $50 0439 682 267 F280225

CAMP oven (oval) 10qt as new $80 0439 682 267 F280225

CAMPING mats 6x interlocking 600x600 $30 ($5ea) 0439 682 267 F280225

CHILDREN’S play table & 2 chairs. Fun games painting & interaction $90 6652 3791

COMPUTER desk 1.2m WxD corner unit Like new $10 0422 099 142

DOG kennel, grey exc cond, heavy duty plastic, 70cm H x 70cm W x 63cm D. $40 0415 981 605

DOOR Gym set new $50. Ph 0412 081 950 F240125

ELDERY bed safety rail for seniors brand new in box $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

ELECTRIC can opener $10 6650 0350

EXERCISE bike, $65 Ph 0408 653 970

PRESCRIPTION sunglasses on Feb 20th in Albany St. Reward offered. Contact 0402 555 377 FOX tail palm seeds $1 each, beautiful North QLD palm 66538337 / 0419 166 688 F110425 44 gallon drum with lid. $70. 66538337 / 0419 166 688 F110425

GIRLS Dressing Table Circa 1950’s original mirror & handles $80 0427 544 008

GOLD frame mirror. 75 x 50cm GC $45. Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

Evaporative Cooler, new from Bunnings $299, still in box. $80. 0434212460

HUGH vintage mirror. 100cm x 70cm. can be hung horizontal or vwertical. $75 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

JACKET, Ladies Brown, suede leather Size 10, zip front, no marks $45. 0407654879

LADIES clothing mostly new, size 6. Must sell going cheap. Contact Kim 0403 280 231

LADIES Colorado Silverton CF sure grip black leather work/walking shoe size 8, still new in box. $90. 6655 3193 F140325

LARGE quanity of stained glass panels worth over $2,000 Asking $1000. 0491 035 704 best contact early morning/evening

PIANO Leider. Recently reconditioned $1500. 0402 264 715 Re311224

LEATHER lounge 3 x 1 + 2 x 1, 2 timber outdoor settings & 2 budgies in large cage. 0407 580 436 F280624

LOUNGE suite, green fabric, dbl couch + 2 reclining chairs $100 0412 254 563

QUEEN bed frame White bedhead/foot and sides. Slate base GC. $350. 0409448983

PORCELAIN biscuit jar (8in high) with cream and jam pots, tea strainer and small flat teaspoon holder. $35 0400 641 561 SOLD

STORAGE cupboard 1m H x 3mL x 60cm D. 6

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

Caravans

STOOL seats. Variety size, type and colour. $30 6652 3791

12 month 2008 Suzuki Boulevarde c50 motorcycle 8640km unregistered $15,000 6653 7595 Re210225 SOUND Bar 2.0.2 CH

120W Dolby ATMOS 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100 Ph 0412 081 950

TEASPOONS large collection as new feat various characters $3-5 per spoon 0403 425 913

THREE Leas floral folding screen. 165cm H x 60cm W. $30 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

TRAILER WHEEL Ford 205-65- R15 pro sand blasted epoxy primed & painted good rubber $60 0467 634 668

TWO macrame wall hangers hand made $50 both 0412 254 563 F310125

TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both 0412 254 563

YORK stepping unit/ air walker, 3 different exercise benches, 9 sets of weights, 3 sets of bars and weights. For individual sale or the lot for $250. 6656 4293

BMW F 750 GS Motorcycle, 2020 model $11,300. Rego 10/09/2025, EJK94 29,000km, 30,000km service just done, rear tyre, chain sprockets done at 24,700km. Exc cond. Ph Mike 0420 902 727

Motors

2008 Honda Civic Sedan 1.8L manual, 1 owner 200,995km. $4,000 BGN41G. 0437 415 487 e180425

2017 Mondeo Wagon

TDi, as new, 71,000 klms, rego & serviced to Mar 2026. ATI59F $18,490. 0447 550 017

2018 Toyota Camry white, 27,300klms, rego exp 29/09/25, auto, one owner, well serviced always garaged, exc cond. EDN48Q. $24,000 ono. 0431 229 351

FORD FG 2009 cab chas ute, 6 spd man Tip Top tray with trundle ladder racks and tool box, H Reece T/Bar alloys 262,000kms excel cond one owner always garaged. $10,750 ono Ph 0422 440 802

081 950 | gstubs@ozemail.com.au

This car has only had one owner and has been garaged all its life. It has been serviced every 5000 km – log books are available. It has been the most amazing vehicle, having never failed us once in its lifetime and has been in some rough territory towing a 3-tonne caravan around Australia and the top end. It is the best towing vehicle ever produced by Toyota. We are only selling it as I have become very ill. Both the interior and exterior paint work is in immaculate condition. It is fitted with airbag suspension, 3-inch exhaust and Polaris navigation system.

Fuel Efficiency: Highway running –10.2lt/100km with cruise control; towing a 3-tonne caravan with the rear loaded to 200kg, tow ball weight at 275 kg at 95km (1800 rpm) – 16 lt/100 with cruise control. The vehicle also has long range tanks. For more details see Gumtree and Carsales. com.au

KIA Seltos 2022

$34,500 ono. 37,000 km. GT Line SUV AWD sunroof, heated-leather seats, press-button start, apple car play Bose sound system Pearl white. 054LA3 August Like new, 3 yrs old. Roadworthy cert Serviced regularly. Ph Skye - 0429 611 988 e110425

Classifieds 4981 8882

MAGNA sedan 2004 228,000 klms, 12 mths rego AXD45T $2,900 0404 178 999

MITSUBISHI Mirage white hatchback 2015 manual, 47,454 klms well serviced & garaged exc cond, one lady owner, $11,990 ono CD68GF. 6651 9790

MITSUBISHI Pajero GLS 4WD 3.2L diesel 2003. Mechanically sound, in great condition New tyres, well serviced & garaged 370,500km. Rego to 8 Jun ‘25 YZY538 $7,000 ono 0474 311 763

Boats

3.4m Savage with trailer rego, 6HP and electric swivel seats, cover safety gear, lots of extras

ACF724N. L26949

$2,000. 0427 528 084

STESSCO 3.75 tinnie 15HP Johnson motor canopy, paddle, auxiliary outboard bracket & anchor. $4,000 ono S47582. Call Brian 0403 503 698

Caravans

2012 A'Van Maddison Poptop. All extras for free-camping. Exc cond. $25,600 ono Ph 0447 550 017

2019 New Age Mantra Ray 19ER Caravan Part annex BBQ, car fridge freezer, towing system 30 years of caravan bits & pieces everything must go! $60,000 ono. TF93TZ Woopi 0412 665 988

JAYCO Westport, 6 months rego, 18ft long aerial, shower/toilet, 2 single beds, new fridge 12V-240V, GC. $14,000 ono. X14213. Call Brian 0403 503 698 e180425

XG Camper potti (toilet) incl chemicals. As new cond. $95. Photos can be supplied. 0490161119

Regal 23’ Caravan. Lge ensuite separate toilet/shower/ front load washing machine, full oven recessed bench elec/ hot water, Q bed/full wardrobes, reverse air/con, microwave/ lge fridge freezer, 3-way & pullout pantry, spice cupboard, lots of storage, radioTV with satellite connection wired for solar panels new awning, full annexe, fully serviced like new, front boot Rego 6/8/25, 754QPJ $28,000. Ph John 0428 464 063

male Mastiff x was found along Marshall Way, Nambucca Heads.

Caravans Motors

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

TRADESSERVICES

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Home Improvements

SPECIAIZING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING,

Contractors Licence 77993C 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

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, OVERLAP HORIZONTAL AND EAVE LOOK

4 METHODS OF USE: FLUSH VERTICAL, FLUSH HORIZONTAL, OVERLAP HORIZONTAL AND EAVE LOOK Mobile 0434 330 555 nestlershomeimprovements.com.au nestlersversatilecladding.com.au

Mobile 0434 330 555 nestlershomeimprovements.com.au nestlersversatilecladding.com.au

Mobile 0434 330 555 nestlershomeimprovements.com.au nestlersversatilecladding.com.au

ONTHEBOX

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

JUDI LOVE’S CULINARY CRUISE

SBS FOOD, 7.30pm

A self-confessed foodie, British comedian Judi Love (pictured) was named champion of Celebrity MasterChef UK in 2020, where she easily won over viewers with her candid and cheeky style. Now, she’s setting sail on her own taste adventure, travelling to five Mediterranean destinations on a luxury yacht and whipping up dishes for her fellow passengers, using local produce along the way. Her first stop is Kotor, Montenegro, a town famed for its seafood. Love explores the historic old town and heads to some oyster and mussel farms to collect ingredients.

FRIDAY, April 11

MONDAY

TIPPING POINT: TRAVEL GUIDES

NBN, 7.30pm

Before the Travel Guides cast embark on their eighth season of adventures, some of TV’s most seasoned travellers try their luck against the Point machine in this fun-filled special. Victorian retirees Kevin and Janetta, Melbourne friends Kev, Teng and Dorian, and Newcastle couple Matt and Brett go head-tohead in Todd Woodbridge’s (pictured) game of wits, with a potential $40,000 prize for their chosen charities on the line. The jet-setting crew are known for their frank appraisals of tourist destinations and stepping outside their comfort zones, so you know there’ll be plenty of laughs along the way as the teams risk it all, trying to reach the jackpot round and claim victory.

TUESDAY

SWINGERS: HOW TO WIN AN ELECTION

The date is set, bulk bread and sausage orders are in, and tiny pencils are being sharpened: it’s time for a federal election. But before Australians head to the polls on May 3, ABC analyst Casey Briggs (pictured) is here to chart the lay of the land, taking a particularly close look at the people who will decide the result of the election: swing voters. Australians have less party loyalty than ever before, which means that these voters, along with their “soft” counterparts (those who have an idea of where their vote will go but aren’t firmly decided), hold the power. In this new, cheekily titled series, Briggs travels the country to find out who our nation’s “swingers” are, and what they make of the 2025 campaigns.

FAMILY (22)

8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.40 Late Programs.

(PG) 9.40 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. (R) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 A Body That Works. (Mls) 12.05 Romulus. (MA15+av, R) 2.05 Agent Hamilton. (Mav, R)

3.45 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGln, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 5. Collingwood v Sydney. 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 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Mav, R) An armoured truck heist is carried out.

12.45 The Black Donnellys. (Premiere, Mdsv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 6. Brisbane Broncos v Sydney Roosters. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Sydney Roosters match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: War. (2007, MA15+lsv, R)

An FBI agent pursues an assassin. Jet Li, Jason Statham.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies: In Flight Meals. (PGa) Takes a look

ONTHEBOX

SATURDAY, April 12

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.55 Rage Closer. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 1.25 Darby And Joan. (PGa, R) 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.00 Dinosaurs Of The Frozen Continent. (R) 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PG, R) 4.40 Creative Types. (PGv, R) 5.10 Landline. (R) 5.40 Australian Story. (R)

6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) Brenda is embroiled in a deadly local dispute.

6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R) An election announcement by the Greens.

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

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Mv) A plane passenger vanishes mid-flight. 8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) Vera investigates when the body of the co-owner of a chip shop is found in his own freezer.

10.05 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) The team finds suspects further afield.

10.50 Boat Story. (MA15+dlv, R)

11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Incredible Homes. (R) 10.05 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 11.00 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU Synchronised C’ships. H’lights. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Of Flanders. Men’s race. H’lights. 4.30 Heroines. 5.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 5.30 Shipwrecked: The Crispi Sinking.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. 8.30 Snowdon & Margaret: A Scandalous Affair. (PGa, R) 9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PG, R) 10.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.15 Paris Paris. (Ms, R) 3.10 Bamay. (R) 4.05 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. The Star Championships Day, Golden Mile Race Day and PKF Italian Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Narrated by Grant Bowler.

7.30 MOVIE: The Day After Tomorrow. (2004, Ma, R) A sudden ice age engulfs Earth. Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal.

9.55 MOVIE: The Book Of Eli. (2010, MA15+v, R) A man fights to protect a sacred book. Denzel Washington.

12.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Taupo Super400. Day 1. Highlights.

1.20 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)

2.30 To Be Advised.

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PGln, R)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (R) 12.30 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R) 1.00 Let’s Eat

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: Mrs Doubtfire. (1993, PGal, R) A man poses as a female housekeeper. Robin Williams, Sally Field.

11.00 MOVIE: The Birdcage. (1996, Ml, R) Robin Williams.

1.15 Let’s Eat With George. (R)

1.45 Talking Honey. (PG, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple have a five-bed Donvale home. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A specialist critical care paramedic responds to a head-on collision that has left a driver trapped in their car. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Ma, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

SUNDAY,

TV (2)

April 13

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Insiders. 10.30 Offsiders. 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s Japanese Gardens. (R) 4.30 Restoration Australia. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.25 Federal Election Announcement. (R)

6.30 Compass. (PG)

6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Darby And Joan. (Mad)

8.15 Unforgotten. (Mal)

9.05 Boat Story. (MA15+v) Janet and Samuel plot their next move.

10.05 MOVIE: Windrider. (1986, Mdls, R)

11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R)

12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)

3.30 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.30 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 8.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 10.00 The Big Chill. (1983, M) Noon The Devil Has A Name. (2019, M) 1.50 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 4.00 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 6.20 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 8.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 10.15 House Of Pleasures. (2011, MA15+, French) 12.40am Late Programs.

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6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Incredible Homes. (R) 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Lap Of Luxury. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Wrestling. (R) 1.00 Motor Racing. ProMX C’ships. Round 2. 4.00 Heroines. (PG) 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Of Flanders. Women’s H’lights. 5.30 Operation: March On Rome.

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Ancient Empires. (Mav) 9.30 Clash Of The Crown Princes. 10.30 What They Found. (MA15+aw) 11.20 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (PGav, R)

12.15 Rebel With A Cause: Neville Bonner. (PGal, R) 1.15 Empires Of New York. (MA15+ad, R)

3.45 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R)

4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.

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12.15pm

10.00

1.45

WorldWatch. 4.20 PBS Washington Week. 4.45 The Artist’s View: A-ha. 5.15 Domino Masters. 6.10 Abandoned Engineering. 7.05 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s race.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The World’s Fastest Indian. Continued. (2005, PG) 8.00 It All Began When I Met You. (2013, PG, Japanese) 10.00 Kin. (2018, M) 11.55 The Client. (1994, M) 2.10pm A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 4.25 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 6.05 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 8.30 The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. (2008, M) 11.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs.

11.00 Ancient Aliens. Noon MOVIE: Johnny English. (2003, PG) 1.45 Lost Gold Of World War II. 2.45 Hunting Hitler. 3.45 Jeopardy! UK. 4.45 Young Sheldon. 5.40 MOVIE: The Addams Family 2.

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6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 Border Patrol. (PGa, R) 3.00 Highway Cops. (PG, R) 3.30 Dog Patrol. (PGad) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

8.00 Highway Patrol. (PG, R) Officers hunt for a fleeing driver.

8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 3. (2023, MA15+av) Robert McCall battles the Italian Mafia. Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning.

11.00 MOVIE: Firestarter. (2022, MA15+av)

1.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Taupo Super400. Day 2. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping.

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

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6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. 8.00 RBT. (Ml) 8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. (MA15+a) A look at the People versus Michael Jackson trial. 10.30 9News Late.

11.00 See No Evil. (Mav)

11.50 The First 48. (Mav)

12.40 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 Australian Survivor. (PGl) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia. 8.10 Matlock. (PGa) A pregnant woman asks for Olympia’s help obtaining a divorce from her husband, whose family is a client of the firm. 9.10 FBI. (Mv) The team makes the unnerving discovery that the identities of multiple undercover agents have been compromised. 11.10 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

9GO! (83)

9GO! (83)

ONTHEBOX

MONDAY, April 14

6.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Milan With Michael Portillo. (PGa)

8.30 Pompeii: The New Dig. (Final, PGan, R) 9.35 24 Hours In Emergency. (M)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Syndrome E. (Malv)

12.00 Infiniti. (MA15+av, R)

2.00 Son Of. (Madlv, R)

3.45 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PG, R)

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

6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. (Premiere) 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 The Crystal Maze. 9.30

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa)

A hit-and-run driver is found at home. 8.30 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Mad) The 126 races into action when a horse barrels into a brewery and a bus full of tourists all experience seizures.

9.30 Suits L.A. (M)

10.30 The Agenda Setters.

11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)

12.00 Treadstone. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

2.55 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.45 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 6.10

From

7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

SBS MOVIES (32)

TUESDAY, April 15

6.00

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Tipping Point: Travel Guides. 9.00 100% Footy. (M)

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. (Malv)

11.20 Police After Dark. (Mlv, R)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Hello SA. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (Final, l) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia. 9.00 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the week. 10.00 Taskmaster Australia. (Mals, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson. 11.10 10’s Late News. 11.35 The Project. (R) 12.35 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6.25

8.00 Foreign Correspondent.

7.30.

8.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (Ml)

9.00 Swingers: How To Win An Election.

9.30 Finding The Archibald. (Final, Ml, R)

10.30 The ABC Of... (PG, R) 11.00 News. 11.15 The Business. (R) 11.30 Four Corners. (R) 12.15 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.35 Q+A. (R) 1.35 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 2.20 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 3.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.45 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Insight.

9.30 Dateline. (R)

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (R) 11.00 Snow. (Mal) 11.55 Illegals. (MA15+al, R) 1.45 Faking Hitler. (Man, R)

3.30 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGls, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. 10.30 Better Homes. 1pm The Great Australian Doorstep. 1.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30

“Playing a much larger and more experienced team first up on a slow track required a committed performance and some tweaks to the game plan.

8.30 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 9.25 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 10.30 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Cult Of Elon. 2.00 One Armed Chef. 2.55 Bamay. 3.25 Uncovering Incels. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 10.30 Duelling Daredevils. 11.20 Taskmaster. 12.15am Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Dancing At Lughnasa. Continued. (1998, PG) 7.05 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 9.30 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 11.40 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 1.20pm The Cover. (2021, M, Spanish) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 It All Began When I Met You. (2013, PG, Japanese) 5.35 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 7.30 My Old Lady. (2014, M) 9.30 The Longest Week. (2014, M) 11.05 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 6.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 8.35 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 10.30 The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. (2008, M) 1.30pm Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 3.55 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 5.50 All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 7.30

6am Morning Programs.

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

7.30 The Americas: The Amazon. (PG) Takes a look at the Amazon.

8.30 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) Owen finally faces his brother’s death.

9.30 The Irrational. (Mav) An astronaut is trapped in space.

10.30 The Agenda Setters.

11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)

12.00 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

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

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Paramedics.

The

(PGa)

a whippet but

daughters prefer a dachshund. A Bull Arab is Hayley’s dream dog. 8.40 NCIS. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s

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The Promise. (2016, M) 9.55 The Handmaid’s Tale. (1990, MA15+) 11.55 Late Programs.

Scorpions Sting

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40

benchmark teams on last year’s form, in the first two weeks.

Storm on Saturday 12 April.

After defeating last season’s Premiers, Sawtell FC now face last year’s Grand Final Champions Northern

“The boys respondedit was a gritty win rather than a flamboyant one and hopefully builds character and some belief for the season ahead.”

“It is a long season, and we have a very young squad, they will learn a lot out of games like the other day,” Buckle reflected.

“The draw has seen us come up against the two

“We embrace this, as it gives us a good opportunity to know where we are at, and what we need to work on.”

q Midfield livewire Jesse Buckle on the attack for Sawtell Scorpions (green).

9GO! (83)

9GO! (83)

ONTHEBOX

WEDNESDAY, April 16

6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (M) The survivalists’ race to catch a wallaby.

8.40 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+) June struggles to save her loved ones.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlsv, R)

3.30 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGl, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

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

10.00 The Stevenson Experience: Stranger Twins. (MA15+ls) A standup comedy show by The Stevenson Experience. 11.30 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)

12.30 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)

2.30 Home Shopping.

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (PGs) 8.30 The Grand Tour. (Ml, R) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 10.50 9News Late.

The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)

Next Stop.

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am All Roads

Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 7.45 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 9.40 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 11.30 The Promise. (2016, M) 1.55pm Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 3.50 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 5.50 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 7.40 6 Days. (2017, M) 9.30 The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. (2009, MA15+, Swedish) 12.15am Late Programs.

THURSDAY, April 17

(PG)

9.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R)

9.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R)

10.45 ABC Late News.

11.00 The Business. (R) 11.20 Darby And Joan. (Mad, R)

12.05 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 12.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us. (Premiere, PG)

8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel. (PG)

9.35 Virdee. (MA15+)

10.45 SBS World News Late.

11.15 Breaking Point. (MA15+a)

12.05 Blinded. (MA15+ds, R)

1.50 Desperate Measures. (Malv, R)

3.30 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? (PGa, R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 7.55 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 9.45 RBG. (2018, PG) 11.35 Mass. (2021, M) 1.40pm All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 3.25 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard. (2009, PG) 5.10 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 7.30 Gold. (2016, M) 9.45 The Girl Who Played With Fire. (2009, MA15+, Swedish) 12.10am Late Programs.

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

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) Graeme Hall meets a noisy maltipoo. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.

10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) Racers skydive over the city of Dubai.

11.30 The Chernobyl Disaster. (Ma, R)

12.30 Emergency Call. (Ma, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

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Scorpions Sting

By David WIGLEY

THE Sawtell Scorpions pulled off a stunning upset in Round One of the HIT105.5 Men’s Premier League, defeating last year’s Premiers, the Woolgoolga Wolves, 2-1 on Saturday at Toormina Oval.

A youthful and rejuvenated Scorpions side made an early statement when Jesse Buckle, ever the live wire, intercepted a loose pass and expertly lobbed the goalkeeper from 25 yards out to give Sawtell the lead in the 27th minute.

But the Wolves, never ones to go down without a fight, levelled the score five minutes before halftime when Fraser Duryea headed in from a corner to make it 1-1.

The second half saw both sides battle fiercely for the win, but it was Keeden Corliss who delivered the decisive blow in the 65th minute, firing home to put

the Scorpions back in front.

In a match full of grit and determination, the Scorpions sealed the win - a victory that was all the more impressive considering the Wolves dominated the league last season, winning 13 points clear of the competition and only losing one match the entire year.

Sawtell FC assistant coach Rod Buckle was delighted with the three points after a short preseason.

“We felt we might be a bit underdone going into Round One with many of our boys playing summer sports,” he said.

“With Sawtell Cricket going deep into the season we didn’t have the pre-season availability and conditioning we would have liked.

“Woolgoolga are a team we have a lot of respect for - they haven’t dropped many games over the last two years.

CONTINUED Page 38

q Midfield livewire Jesse Buckle on the attack for Sawtell Scorpions (green).

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