By Andrea FERRARI
DELLA Byrnes,17, has been named Aboriginal Employment Strategy’s (AES) School-Based Trainee of the Year, receiving her award at a special awards ceremony in Sydney.
Della has just completed Year 12 at Bellingen High School (ATAR level HSC and Certificate III Business) while simultaneously excelling in her traineeship with the Gumbaynggirr Rangers through Coffs Harbour AES. Throughout her twoyear traineeship, Della
CONTINUED Page 2
CONTINUED Page 3
Andrea FERRARI 0410 067 966 andrea@newsofthearea.com.au
Andrew VIVIAN 0414 646 198 andrew@newsofthearea.com.au
Aiden BURGESS aiden@newsofthearea.com.au
David WIGLEY wigley@newsofthearea.com.au
Mike HELY 0427 108 089 mike@newsofthearea.com.au
Kim SATCHELL 0422 016 285 satchell@newsofthearea.com.au
Leigh WATSON 0433 831 403 leigh@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
EDITOR
NEWS DESK: media@newsofthearea.com.au
ADVERTISING: ads@newsofthearea.com.au
FLIPBOOK ONLINE: www.newsofthearea.com.au SOCIAL: facebook.com/coffsNOTA
FROM Page 1
has been involved in a diverse range of activities, gaining an extensive array of practical and process-based skills.
During her time with the Gumbaynggirr Rangers, Della has gained certification in Marine Mammal Observation, a remote pilot license (drones), and snorkelling and scuba diving certificates.
She has also completed fire warden training, mammal rescue training and two ranger exchanges to Cairns representing Rangers of NSW within the largest remote mission in Australia.
Locally, she has assisted in the management and revitalisation of the Bellinger river turtles (taking bloods, giving vaccines), and collaborated with Envite in the restoration of Sealy Lookout.
In a collaboration with Taronga Zoo, Della also assisted in an Australian-based study on the migration of sea turtles.
Over the two-year period, she has also learned about invasive and native plant identification, mangrove restoration, seagrass restoration, assisted in the capturing and rehabilitation of seals, participated in freshwater diving to monitor and record data of turtles, and helped in shorebird surveys to monitor and observe endangered bird species.
She has also learned how to conduct water quality testing as well as assisting in a three-day cultural burn.
Della has taught in over five primary schools and conducted 10 classes about culture.
She is a proud member of the Budaabang Bari dance group, performing
for community events such as Riversounds, Bellingen International Women’s Day, the Buluunggal festival, community and schoolbased NAIDOC events, and is a mentor for Sista Business.
Volunteering is an important part of completing the traineeship.
Della has volunteered as a mentor in Gumbaynggirr Learning classes (teaching weaving) and in helping with numerous school-run events.
The traineeship came about for Della through a nomination from North Boambee-based Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation and the AES Group Training Organisation.
In February 2024, Della, along with Leyland (Buddy) Roberts and Khairyn Briggs commenced their traineeships.
During the experience, they reported “enjoying the hands-on practical experience and the relevant industry specific training that will be beneficial for our training and development".
“But the most valuable and fulfilling experience is the wealth of cultural knowledge and insight that has been bestowed on us by the Gumbaynggirr Land and Sea Rangers and our honourable community Elders," they said.
As a result of Della’s hard work, she has received early offers from three universities and the Gumbaynggirr Rangers have offered her a full-time traineeship in 2026.
FROM Page 1
areas over time.
Water samples will be collected from 10 priority monitoring sites in the Coffs Harbour LGA and 10 priority sites in the Nambucca Valley LGA on a quarterly basis, with testing and analysis to focus on detections of 150 different pesticides, along
with 31 metals. Samples will also be taken at an additional 13 monitoring sites (11 in Coffs Harbour and two in Nambucca Valley) on an annual basis.
NSW EPA Acting Director Operations John Forcier said high-quality data collected through the project will be used to inform targeted EPA
pesticide compliance efforts and deliver insights into the potential risks associated with pesticide use on local waterways in key horticultural catchments.
“Coffs Harbour and the Nambucca Valley are priority areas for the EPA’s pesticide compliance work,” Mr Forcier said.
“Pesticide detections in Coffs Harbour catchments such as Hearnes Lake,
coupled with the rapid expansion of intensive horticulture in the Nambucca Valley, have underscored the need to build on existing water quality data from the region.
“This project will generate critical insights to help strengthen our regulatory approach –ensuring our compliance efforts are fit for purpose and precisely targeted to better
prevent pesticides from entering local waterways.
“It will also complement data gathered through the Coastal Management Programs run by both councils, which monitor nutrients and core physiochemical indicators across coastal catchments in the Coffs and Nambucca areas.
“By bringing these datasets together, we’ll gain a more comprehensive
understanding of overall water quality and catchment health –essential knowledge to support ongoing and future waterway management efforts.”
Results from the project will be published on the EPA’s website each quarter and will be shared with key stakeholders, including relevant interagency working groups.
By Andrew VIVIAN
Costello is one of a number of locals disturbed by conditions at Boambee Bay Reserve.
While many are disappointed that the café no longer operates, Mr Costello says that foreshore damage and erosion is also becoming concerning
“We are regular swimmers and visitors to the Boambee Bay Reserve and have been going there for over 40 years as a long-time resident of Sawtell,” he said.
“My main concern… is the disappearing riverbank, which is gradually falling into the creek and making the lawn area above smaller and smaller with each visit.”
currently saying "Stay off Bank”, but said more signs are needed because he has seen families with children tunnelling into the banks while playing, eroding the area further.
“We know a lot of the damage is being caused by high tides and general erosion but if we don’t move quickly we are going to lose this piece of heaven for all that visit the area every year.
“With the grassed area on the northern part of the riverbank now only 3.5m from the concrete road to the riverbank, there will soon be nowhere to sit… at that end of the reserve.”
current state, is outrageous.”
Mr Costello has emailed state and local politicians but said nothing has improved.
A spokesperson for Reflections Holidays said it is a Category 1 Crown Land manager, and the Boambee Creek Reserve is one of 47 community reserves it cares for on behalf of the community.
The cafe at Boambee Creek Reserve is currently closed and the spokesperson said the Reflections team is reviewing applications from interested parties with the aim of finding a viable operator, considering the Reserve is predominantly visited by the public in warmer months.
maintenance such as mowing is done as identified by staff.
He said a Reflections staff member is on-site daily and numerous staff perform cleaning, mowing and maintenance duties multiple times throughout the week, ensuring the property is maintained for the community's enjoyment.
Mr Costello pointed out that there are two signs
He said Reflections is aware of the erosion impacting a section of the riverbank, and has sought funding assistance via a Crown Lands Improvement Fund (CRIF) application to support a longer term strategy.
He said the reserve also appears shabby and dirty, with the shelters full of leaves and dirt, and that “charging $8 for park usage, given its
As it awaits a response, it is seeking quotes for sand scraping, which will reposition sand and stabilise the bank.
In the interim, food van operators have been at the Reserve, including the Marine Rescue Food Truck, which was organised as part of Rescue Month fundraising activities - an organisationwide charity support initiative held each January.
The spokesperson said Reflections staff clean the amenities and BBQ areas daily in peak holiday periods and twice a week in nonpeak holiday periods, while
By Miklos BOLZA, AAP
AN AGED care intruder has denied raping a 76-year-old woman, saying she pulled him onto her bed and held him in a bear hug after discovering him in her room.
Hayden Carl Skinner, 31, is accused of sexually assaulting the elderly woman during a burglary in the early hours of New Year's Day 2024.
Giving evidence during a judge-alone trial on Monday, he said he had been looking for valuables to steal in her Coffs Harbour aged care home, fearing he would be assaulted over a drug debt.
Scaling the facility's fence and entering the room through an unlocked sliding door, he crawled on his hands and knees while the 76-yearold slept in her bed, he said.
His sweaty hand touched a "spongy" item of clothing on the floor before she woke up and threatened him, Skinner told District Court Judge Michael McHugh.
"Who the hell do you think you are?" she allegedly said.
As he was standing up to
flee, she grabbed him by the shirt.
"No you don't, you're not getting away with this," he testified the elderly woman said.
She then used her body weight to fall backwards and pull him down, he told the court.
"I caught her and shifted the way she fell toward the bed so she didn't fall onto any drawers and hurt herself," Skinner said.
The pair struggled on the bed with the woman holding Skinner in a bear hug as he was hunched over her.
After he partially freed himself, the 76-year-old grabbed him by the genitals, before reaching up and taking hold of his hair, he testified.
With the woman's legs wrapped around his waist, he claims he grabbed her by the inner thighs trying to push them apart and get free.
He said he eventually broke away from the 76-year-old before running from the room.
"Did you attempt to have sex with her?" public defender Peter Pearsall asked.
"No," the 31-year-old replied.
Skinner said he did not notice whether the elderly woman was wearing pants but he could see her legs during the struggle.
Earlier in the trial, Judge McHugh heard a registered nurse found the distressed woman half-naked, screaming and trying to get into another resident's room after the alleged rape.
The woman said her rapist was wearing jeans and had an earring.
But CCTV footage played to the court showed Skinner wearing a T-shirt and board shorts before and after the incident.
He testified on Monday he had not recently worn an earring despite getting his ears pierced when he was a child.
Skinner, who has pleaded not guilty to one count of aggravated sexual assault, is accused of removing her pants, underwear and incontinence pad before sexually assaulting her.
His DNA was found on the woman's pants which police
located on the floor near her bed, the Crown argues. It has conceded the woman - who has since passed away due to unrelated
causes - had exhibited some odd behaviour and a "racial attitude", and was an unreliable witness. The trial continues.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028.
q Port Macquarie MP Robert Dwyer however believes the focus must shift from redundancies and compensation to a ‘North Coast Timber Manufacturing Revival Plan’. Photo: supplied.
PORT Macquarie MP Robert Dwyer has urged the NSW Government to back a “new future” for the North Coast timber industry after the announcement of the Great Koala National Park (GKNP) boundaries in September.
The announcement included an immediate temporary moratorium on timber harvesting within the proposed 476,000 hectare boundary, which includes 176,000 hectares of state forest.
Despite the GKNP being between Kempsey and Grafton, the decision has had significant effects further south, impacting the long-term Wood Supply Agreement at the Pentarch mill at Herons Creek - putting local jobs at risk.
About 80 locals work at the Herons Creek mill.
The full extent of job losses is yet to be confirmed.
“The mill at Herons Creek, which is the largest mill in NSW, is 150 kilometres from the Great Koala National Park,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Ninety percent of their timber is not sourced from the GKNP yet has lost its contract. It just doesn’t make sense.”
Last month the NSW
Government finalised a worker support package for employees at timber mills directly impacted by the recent moratorium.
The package included top up redundancy payments, specific support for employees over 45 years of age, education and training payments, relocation payments, free access to mental health support, and financial and legal guidance.
A month prior, the Government announced the Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program, which will offer support worth up to $100,000 to downstream businesses that relied on impacted timber mills, so they can meet increased operating costs.
Mr Dwyer however believes the focus must shift from redundancies and compensation to a “North Coast Timber Manufacturing Revival Plan”, described as a “strategy that delivers on the Government’s environmental commitments while ensuring no net job losses across the region”.
“Pentarch is one of the North Coast’s largest manufacturing employers,” Mr Dywer said.
“Our priority must be protecting their workforce and strengthening the region’s industrial base.”
Pentarch has put forward four major investment projects designed to safeguard long-term employment and drive economic growth:
- A new 40,000m³ hardwood supply contract to enable retooling of the Herons Creek mill for highvalue decorative timber products.
- A new plantationbased softwood mill at
Koolkhan, ensuring mature local plantation resources are processed locally and providing essential materials for the housing sector.
- A biochar and bioenergy facility at Koolkhan, developed with BlueScope, to replace coal in steelmaking and reduce heavy vehicle traffic through expanded rail freight.
- A prefabricated housing manufacturing plant at Herons Creek, modelled on Pentarch’s new 2,000-homesper-year facility in Orange,
to address critical housing needs across the Mid Coast.
“The revival plan would protect existing jobs, strengthen local engineering capability - including firms such as AE Gibson and Sons - reduce the export of unprocessed timber, and lower the Government’s costs associated with industry contraction,” a statement from Mr Dwyer read.
Mr Dwyer said he is working closely with Pentarch to try and secure government cooperation,
THE City of Coffs Harbour’s Draft Aquatic Facilities Strategy is now on public exhibition for until 23 January.
“The draft strategy provides a framework to inform planning and investment for aquatic infrastructure, services and programs needed to meet the needs of the community’s growing population for the next 15 years,” Council said in a statement.
The City currently
provides four aquatic facilities across the Local Government Area (LGA) - in Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Sawtell and at Nana Glen.
The draft strategy recommends redevelopment of the Central Coffs and Woolgoolga facilities, repurposement of the Sawtell site in the longterm and continuation of the arrangements at Nana Glen where the City-owned pool is run under a lease arrangement.
Consultancy group
Otium has worked with the City to prepare the draft strategy.
At its meeting on 27 November, Council resolved for City staff to provide a workshop for Councillors on the investment and funding options for all pools, with consideration given to increasing investment in Sawtell Pool to maintain services.
Council further resolved to collectively still consider the concept of a 50-metre pool in the West Woolgoolga area. Recommended directions in the draft strategy include: Coffs Harbour War Memorial Pool: Develop as a regional-level facility with additional warm-water program pool and other improvements that, subject to existing site analysis, may require relocation to a location south of the current Coff Street site. Cost (estimated) - redevelopment $35 million, relocation $80m. Timeframe 2034-'38.
Woolgoolga Pool: Redevelop as a districtlevel facility at the current site and actively explore integrated co-location opportunities with other community infrastructure.
Cost (estimated) $30m. Timeframe 2030-'34.
Sawtell Pool: Maintain as a local-level facility until Coffs Harbour War Memorial Pool is established as a regional facility. Then redevelop as a destination water-play facility with an ability to attract people from
including new supply arrangements, transitional support for regional engineering businesses, streamlined approvals, and coordinated engagement with Forestry Corporation and relevant agencies.
“Pentarch is ready to invest, ready to innovate and ready to secure long-term employment on the North Coast.
“This is an opportunity to build - not dismantleregional industry,” Mr Dwyer said.
across the LGA as well as tourists. Cost (estimated) $5m. Timeframe 2039-'41. Orara Valley Community Pool: Retain, maintain and enhance as a local-level facility. Provide electric heat pumps for increased pool water temperature and an accessible platform chair lift/pool pod. Actions to be undertaken as funding becomes available. Indicative timeframe 2031-'36.
To read the strategy and provide feedback: haveyoursay.coffsharbour. nsw.gov.au/draft-aquaticfacilities-strategy.
By Andrew VIVIAN
GREENS MP and spokesperson for the environment Sue Higginson says that Forestry Corporation NSW’s (FCNSW) 2024-25 Annual Report, recently tabled in the NSW Parliament, reveals that the state has spent $76 million over the last three years to keep the native forest logging division in business.
Ms Higginson said that having to pay to destroy precious forests is incomprehensible and a political failure.
“We know that our native forests are worth so much to us all when they are standing intact, providing the essential services [of] clean water, threatened species habitat, carbon drawdown and storage, landscape stability, recreation, education and culture and the ever increasing pollination required for agriculture.”
North East Forest Alliance (NEFA) spokesperson Dailan Pugh said, “Last year [the By Andrew VIVIAN division] cost $4330 a hectare to log 7390 ha of public native forests.
“Taxpayers are paying an exorbitant cost to subsidise private sawmillers to log native forests.
“Since the 2019/20 wildfires, the Forestry Corporation’s yields from native forests in north-east NSW have crashed by 44 percent, the timber is simply not there anymore, yet the Forestry Corporation remains in denial.
“This is before the creation of the Great Koala National Park (GKNP), and so cannot be blamed on it.
“Logging public native forests is an
economic basket case, and with plantations now providing 91 percent of our sawn timber, it is no longer needed.
“It will be of far greater economic benefit to the community to complete the transition to plantations and stop degrading public forests.”
A spokesperson for FCNSW said that it is appointed to manage almost two million hectares of public native forests on behalf of the State, and harvests around one percent of this area each year.
She said land management services are only partly government funded and that last financial year, investment in land management exceeded government funding by approximately $26 million.
Forestry Corporation remains the appointed land manager for state forests on the North Coast.
The spokesperson said the cost of providing community services such as extensive tourism facilities and a 51,000km road network, and the management of fire, pests and weeds, would need to be met by the NSW Government regardless of the land manager.
These costs should not be conflated with the cost of harvesting timber, she said, adding that revenue from hardwood timber production was reduced due to access
restrictions caused by extreme and ongoing wet weather, including a tropical cyclone and flooding on the North Coast - as well as changes to regulations.
Ms Higginson suggested that many people would support that amount of money and more being spent to manage the public forest estate “if they weren’t trashing it”.
She said, “The logging of our precious native forests has not produced a single dollar of profit in NSW for almost a decade, and it likely never will.
“Yet somehow the destruction of these vital ecosystems has been allowed to continue.
“It is time to call it for what it is - an industry of the past that must be stopped now.”
MICHAEL Kemp has been unanimously reendorsed as the National Party’s candidate for the Oxley electorate in the 2027 state election.
The incumbent MP again received the support of his party at the Nationals’ Oxley division State Electorate Council meeting on Saturday, 6 December.
Mr Kemp said he was humbled by the confidence placed in him and grateful for the opportunity to continue fighting for the communities he represents.
“Being elected as your state representative has been a privilege,” Mr Kemp said.
“I remember the day I was first tapped on the shoulder, a reluctant possible politician, wondering how on earth I’d step up and pull this off.”
Mr Kemp said the role is demanding, but the most difficult moments often bring the greatest purpose.
“I love this region - every paddock, every person, every blade of grass that makes Oxley what it is.
“My job isn’t done.
“We still have work ahead to strengthen crime laws, improve healthcare, lower energy prices, protect landholders' rights and deliver proper riparian repair.”
CITY of Coffs Harbour will extend financial support for the improvement of 12 significant properties across the Local Government Area (LGA) – including a popular country pub and two former churches.
The Coffs Harbour Local Heritage Assistance Fund has been operating since 2003 and is offered annually to owners of heritage-listed properties (including those properties located in the heritage conservation areas of Coramba and Sawtell).
The City receives funding from the NSW Government to run the program which aims to help preserve the heritage significance of eligible properties.
The funding is contingent upon the City providing an equivalent to the State’s contribution, and the property owner matching the combined total of the NSW Government and City contribution.
“Our heritage buildings are valued widely by the community and serve as a reminder of days long gone,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“It’s important we support the preservation of these significant structures which in many instances are landmarks.”
Projects successful in the 2025-'26 round:
• 2 Curacoa Street, Coffs Harbour (a rare and intact example of a Federation bungalow). Replace stairs and pillars at front of property. City contribution $1,500.
• 215A Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour (a high-quality, all-timber former public building). Repaint external walls. City contribution $2,000.
• 20 Korff Street, Coffs Harbour (an early surviving, substantially intact timber residence dating from pre-WWI). Reinstate window and window hood. City contribution $377.
• 23 Moore Street, Coffs Harbour (an early surviving, substantially intact timber building from the inter-World Wars’ period). Polish floorboards and paint walls. City contribution $2,000.
• 15 Dorrigo Street, Coramba (the former St Paul’s Anglican Church is the oldest surviving church in the Coffs Harbour area). Refurbish and reinstall leadlight windows. City contribution $5,000.
• 14 Gale Street, Coramba (this house is located in the heart of the Coramba Conservation
Area). Replace side window screens on the house. City contribution $600.
• 17 Gale Street, Coramba (its art deco style is very rare in the Coffs Harbour LGA and the building is substantially unaltered). Upgrade the façade of the Coramba Hotel. City contribution $5,000.
• 21-23 First Avenue, Sawtell (possibly the oldest surviving shop building in First Avenue following the establishment of the town
in 1923). Restore and paint external awning and façade. City contribution $3,000.
• 25 First Avenue, Sawtell (the Sawtell Cinema is of the highest local significance as a purpose-built, single-screen cinema and a local Sawtell landmark). Replace side fence. City contribution $1,250.
• 20 Timms Avenue, Ulong (the Ulong Timber Mill is a State Heritagelisted item). Continued
q The Coramba Hotel’s art deco style is rare in the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area.
Were you affected by the May floods?
More households are now eligible for the Home Repair Grant —with expanded income thresholds and extra time to apply.
Grants up to $25,000 are now available to help repair your home.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get back on your feet.
replacement of roof of mill area. City contribution $3,040.
• 610 Upper Orara Road, Upper Orara (the Upper Orara Community Hall is a locally heritagelisted item and has been in continuous use for over 100 years). Insulation, gapfilling and fireproofing. City contribution $2,960; and
• 612 Upper Orara Road, Upper Orara (the former All Saints Anglican Church is a locally heritage-
listed item). Concrete side and rear pathway. City contribution $1,510.
Planning and Communities Acting Director Ian Fitzgibbon said the City’s 2025/26 program includes a $12,500 contribution from the NSW Government.
“We had 12 applications to the program and all were of a high quality. The City’s contribution will assist property owners with the cost of conservation works,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
CITY of Coffs Harbour is currently rolling out a new water quality monitoring program.
Water samples measuring key indicators will be taken every three months at 18 sites in the Darkum Creek, Woolgoolga Lake, Willis Creek and Hearnes Lake catchments.
A particular focus will be on fluctuations in sediment and nutrient concentrations, as these are both problematic pollutants when they exceed even low levels.
“In addition to the quarterly samples, a continuous water quality monitoring device has been installed in Hearnes Lake to track daily changes across
a 12-month period,” City Planning and Communities Acting Director Ian Fitzgibbon said.
“This will draw a picture for us of what’s happening, including during periods of heavy rainfall and water run-off.”
The water quality monitoring program complements the City’s involvement in the Hearnes Lake Working Group – a multi-agency body which aims to improve water quality in the lagoon.
“We are partnering with key stakeholders including the NSW Environment Protection Authority, State Government agencies, agricultural industry bodies and the local community
organisation – Sandy Beach Action Group – to develop collaborative approaches to improving water quality,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
Water quality readings from the program will be published on the City’s website, and will inform ongoing education, management and compliance actions.
“This proactive campaign is among the actions detailed in the City’s Coastal Management Programs,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“Our natural environment is something we all value so highly on the Coffs Coast, so it’s important to get reliable and timely data on water quality.”
q The Bellingen Community Markets have been connecting the community for 45 years.
By Andrew VIVIAN
FOR almost half a century, the Bellingen Community Markets have been a confluence of community, creativity, and connection, welcoming patrons from all walks of life every third Saturday of the month.
On Saturday 20 December, the markets will reach a significant milestone: 45 years of bringing the community together.
Market manager Kaz Selbie, said it has thrived because so many dedicated people have poured their passion and energy into its success.
“It’s more than just a
marketplace: it’s a living tapestry of artistry, diverse wares, and the unmistakable warmth of mateship,” she said.
“All market profits go straight back into supporting local groups, making every visit a win for everyone.”
More than 200 colourful and fascinating stalls, with tempting food, aromatic coffee, and various goods to browse, will provide a feast for the senses.
Apocalypse Joe and the Coyote will entertain the crowds with “a performance that defies genres and brings raw, heartfelt energy to the stage”.
The Bellingen Youth
Orchestra will welcome everyone at the gates, shaking buckets, and marketgoers are urged to show support. They may also surprise with impromptu performances.
Around noon, the Bellingen “AkaBella” choir will fill the air with soulful harmonies, and there is the possibility of some energetic “characters” sharing the birthday and festive cheer by dancing through the market.
“As we celebrate… we invite you to come along, embrace the festive spirit, and be part of a tradition that has been growing strong for 45 years.”
For more details, visit bellingenmarkets.com.au.
A 30-YEAR-OLD man has faced Coffs Harbour Local Court charged over a car chase and foot pursuit.
About 9.55am on Monday, 8 December, officers from Coffs/ Clarence Police District were patrolling the Pacific Highway near Cook Drive when they attempted to stop a vehicle.
As they approached the driver, it is alleged that the vehicle mounted a median strip, narrowly missing one of the officers.
A pursuit was initiated with extra resources assisting from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and the Dog Squad.
The vehicle was brought to a stop
Proposed redevelopment of Shops 20 and 21/20 Gordon Street Coffs Harbour. This proposed update of the premises will provide one large single office or retail space of 344 square metres or two smaller spaces of 172 square metres. The space is available for rent or purchase.
For further information, please contact the owner on 0418 654 371
after it crashed into the roundabout at the intersection of the Pacific Highway and Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
Police allege the driver ran from the scene before he was arrested with the
assistance of the Dog Squad.
He was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station where he was charged with "police pursuit (not stop)", "drive dangerously", "drive motor vehicle
during disqualification period", and "use offensive weapon to prevent police investigation".
He was refused bail to appear ahead of his appearance in court on Tuesday.
TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment
New Coffs Harbour Workshops Commencing in January 2026 Enquire about NSW FEE-FREE and GOVERNMENT SUBSIDISED PLACES
BSB50420 Diploma of Leadership and Management Zoom Workshops Commencing in November Government Subsidised Places Available www.smartandskilled.net.au
selling now 13th December | 9am – 12pm
Visit our Retirement Village on Saturday, 13th December and view our wonderful village facilities and display villas.
• Boutique community of 53 villas
• 2 bedroom designs with lock up garages
• Communal facilities including a heated swimming pool, BBQ area, gym and hair salon
• Pet friendly
To learn more about Oak Tree Retirement Village Coff s Harbour or for a personal tour call 0498 768 948.
By Andrea FERRARI
Community Hub recently learned that many of its culturally diverse women members enjoy cooking but find it hard to get the ingredients for their traditional dishes, such as grape leaves for dolma.
The not-for-profit National Community Hubs Program helps bridge the gap between families and the wider community;
connecting women with schools, with each other, and with organisations that can provide health, education, and support.
When Community Hubs Leader at Narranga Public School, Caitlin Mackie, heard about the Yazidi ladies’ need for grape leaves she approached Raleigh Winery.
Operators Brent and Belinda Watson were keen to fulfil their request.
“Raleigh Winery was very enthusiastic to have
the participants from the Community Hub come and help them out by thinning the leaves for optimum grape and wine quality,” Ms Mackie told News Of The Area.
Students from nearby Raleigh Public School attended the harvesting, following the instructions on how to pick the grape leaves then handing them over to the women.
“The ladies [then] cooked Iraqi-style dolma in their commercial kitchen as a
thank you.
“The [students] helped roll some of the dolma, which is filled with tomato, spices, lemon and rice and is rolled quite tightly, then steamed in large quantities.
“We made around 10 kilos that afternoon.
“Customers on the day enjoyed the food and the students came back for second and third helpings.”
Around 70 ladies from Syria, Iraq, China, Ethiopia and Congo attended,
supporting each other and each taking home a bag of grape leaves to cook and preserve.
“Many ladies enjoyed their time with the students as their grandchildren haven't joined them in Australia and live in Iraq, Germany or Turkey,” Ms Mackie said.
The event achieved the expected outcome of happy connections and the sharing of traditional international dishes.
Brent Watson told NOTA that the women were proud to share their traditions and culture.
“I know just how much good it does their souls to do things like picking grape leaves that their ancestors have done for thousands of years, and that links them to their former lives in Iraq and Syria.”
Ms Mackie plans to return in 2026 with another group of Community Hub refugee families.
MEMBER for Oxley Michael Kemp has called out Premier
Chris Minns for “out-of-touch comments” on morning TV show Sunrise regarding the recovery of communities impacted by flooding in May.
When asked by host Matt Shirvington what NSW should be most proud of in the past year, the Premier responded: “I think the thing we should be most proud of is the way that we rallied during Cyclone Alfred at the beginning of the year, and the way the community got back up off its knees on the
Mid North Coast after those devastating floods.
“I mean, we move on… if you don’t live in that community life moves on, but those towns really went through hell over those couple of weekends.
“Just think their resilience and community spirit really shone through and brought out the best of NSW.”
Mr Kemp believes Mr Minns’ comments reflect a lack of understanding of the ongoing impact of the floods on the Mid North Coast and
in the Hunter.
“The Premier speaks as though people have moved on, but our communities haven’t had the luxury of ‘moving on’,” Mr Kemp said.
“I speak with locals everyday who are still facing financial strain, mental health stress, and ongoing infrastructure damage months after the event.
“Many… businesses still don’t have the support they need because the application process has been so complicated, so timeconsuming and so poorly
communicated that people can’t get through it."
Mr Kemp said it’s time for the Premier to stop delivering “sympathetic soundbites from a Sydney studio” and start delivering actual support.
“I’m calling on the Premier to get out of Sydney, come back to the Mid North Coast, speak directly with affected residents and businesses and increase the Small Business Recovery Grants to $50,000 because the damage far exceeds the support on offer."
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS Harbour Senior College Year 12 student Grace Sutherland, was among 6000 students participating in the world’s largest amateur variety show, the Schools Spectacular at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on 29-30 November.
Grace is studying her Certificate III in Live Production and Services
and worked as a production assistant at the event’s outdoor festival, SpecFest.
Showtime saw hundreds of students front of house, putting on amazing dance numbers, singing performances and acrobatic feats, while backstage over 150 vocational education and training (VET) students managed camera operations, audio engineering, lighting, production, styling and
costumes, event and stage management and operated the Tiny Café.
Grace’s role at SpecFest was as a sound operator with surround sound, setting up the EQ (equalisation) and mic-ing up the performers.
Speaking from the event, Grace said, “Honestly, it's so amazing having this big group around me.
“It's like I've become part of this community.”
Her dream is to do stage management at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) or be on the stage.
For now, SpecFest is an experience that keeps on giving.
“I have learnt things that I don't think I would have ever learnt before.
“Just being able to go up to mix and immediately be able to do anything, and to learn how you can manipulate
someone's voice with just a flick of a switch.”
Grace applied for the experience through an online application with a video submission sharing why she wanted to be involved in Schools Spectacular and what her interest areas are in production.
Her teacher supported the application with a reference.
Applications are open from the middle of each year for VET Entertainment Roles.
SpecFest Student Production Manager Fatima De Assis, who worked with Grace, told News Of The Area, “Students undertaking the Certificate III in Live Production and technical services have a focus on operations.
“Schools can support students' learning through internal events, functions, musicals, and showcases to supplement their work placement requirements.
“Grace Sutherland was assigned to operate the West End rehearsal space, managing the performers' in-ear monitor system and audio console.”
The role required a person who has strong communication skills, and an understanding from the performer's perspective, and who is able to operate and monitor audio systems throughout the process.
“Schools Spectacular has and will continue to encourage students from regional areas to take part in large-scale opportunities such as this one.
“What we are certain about is the students that represent regional and rural areas are mature young individuals who savour every moment and bring back to their school and peers a wealth of memories and technical experiences that they will adapt and pass on to their school.”
“At SpecFest, there is the opportunity for students to work alongside our industry partner, Eclipse, to operate and maintain the party/festival atmosphere prior to the actual Arena performance.
By Andrew BROWN, AAP
MAVERICK MP Barnaby Joyce will join Pauline Hanson's One Nation party.
After weeks of speculation, the New England MP and former deputy prime minister has confirmed he would move to the far-right party, after previously representing the Nationals.
He will sit in the House of Representatives for the rest of the parliamentary term as a One Nation MP, before leading the party's Senate ticket for NSW.
"I am firmly of the view which I have considered over a long period of time that the best choice before me is to stand for One Nation as a Senator for NSW," Mr Joyce said in a
statement on social media on Monday.
"I will let the voters be the ultimate arbiter of that decision."
Mr Joyce announced his defection from the Nationals on the last sitting day of the year in November, citing a breakdown in the relationship with party leadership and being relegated to the backbench after the May election.
At the time, he did not say what his next political move would be.
Speculation increased about the move to One Nation after Mr Joyce was seen dining with Senator Hanson at Parliament House over a wagyu steak cooked on a sandwich press.
Senator Hanson said she was pleased the MP would
be joining the party.
"Mr Joyce strengthens One Nation's position in parliament just as many Australians are strengthening our position in the polls," she said in a statement.
"I have always been very straightforward about asking Mr Joyce to join our team, and on making it clear this was always his decision."
Mr Joyce will be the first member of One Nation to sit in the lower house since Senator Hanson herself in the late 1990s.
Recent polling shows the number of people planning to put One Nation first on their ballot paper is at an all-time high, with surveys putting support for the party between 14 and 18 percent. A recent Resolve poll said 29 percent of voters
would be more likely to support the party if it were led by Mr Joyce.
By Leigh WATSON
COFFS Harbour’s much-loved multicultural Christmas lunch will take on a festive twist, featuring traditional dance performances from both the Coffs Harbour and Grafton Indonesian women’s groups.
The community is invited to attend the event on Sunday 21 December, starting from 11.30am at the Jetty meeting place on Jordan Esplanadeopposite the train station.
The Coffs Harbour
Indonesian women’s dance group, who will perform the Nusa Tenggara Timur dance, have become familiar faces at local cultural events.
The group has performed at the International Food and Dance event at Cavanbah Hall, Harmony Day celebrations at TAFE and the Botanic Garden, and most recently at All One Under the Sun at Brelsford Park.
They will be joined by the Grafton Indonesian women’s dance group, led by Penny Saraswati, who also plays
music for the ensemble.
The group has danced at community festivals including the Jacaranda Festival, All One Under the Sun and the Indonesian Festival at Scotts Head.
Both groups are excited to bring their vibrant cultural traditions to the multicultural Christmas lunch.
Lunch organiser Sien Tedjo has been running these monthly multicultural lunches in Coffs Harbour for many years, quietly helping
When: Friday nights: 19th December 2025 2nd January, 6th February, 6th March 2026
Time: 7:30pm-9pm
Meet at Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space
This award winning tour takes place close to the full moon of each month where you will experience the eerie wailing calls of the birds as they return to their nesting burrows after dark.
You’ll also hear the stories of the strong and enduring Aboriginal cultural significance of the island and why its still so special to the Gumbaynggirr people here on the Coffs Coast.
Cost: Adult $20 pp
Child $10 pp (5 -16 Yo)
Family $50 (2A, 2C)
Phone 1300 072 757 for more information.
around 100 newcomers settle into the community.
The gatherings, which began as a support network for Indonesian arrivals, have now grown into a broad and lively multicultural hub.
“Our multicultural group lunches are open for everyone to join and have fun together,” Sien said.
“But this time is a special one for Christmas so we can
celebrate together.”
The event will include a visit from Santa, who will hand out presents to children.
Families wishing for their child to receive a gift are asked to bring a wrapped present with the child’s name on it.
Attendees are also asked to bring a plate to share, wear a Christmas outfit or hat or, if
they wish, come dressed in their own cultural attire.
“I want everyone from anywhere to join with us –to eat, connect, and get to know other people in their community so they are not alone,” Sien said.
For more information call Sien on 0403 406 663 or visit the “Coffs Harbour Multicultural” Facebook page.
By Andrea FERRARI
DEFENCE Force veteran
Brett Sprague never forgets the passing of his mate Lieutenant Michael Fussell in Afghanistan on 27 November 2008.
Lieutenant Fussell, aged 25, was serving with the Special Operations Task Group when he was killed in action by an improvised explosive device (EID) detonation while conducting a dismounted patrol in Uruzgan province.
Born in Coffs Harbour on 17 November 1983, he served with the Sydneybased 4th Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (Commando).
His family remain living on the Coffs Coast to this day.
“Michael, or ‘Fuss’ to us, was part of our small cohort of new Artillery Officers in 2005,” Mr Sprague told News Of The Area.
“At the School of Artillery in Puckapunyal, Victoria we trained to be Artillery Officers together, intensely, in 2006.
“As a result we were very close and his loss is felt very deeply.
Field Gunner specialists who spent nearly every waking minute together for three months on our Regimental Officer Basic Course and then another month together later in the year learning to become Gun Position Officers.”
Each year as the date nears, Mr Sprague finds himself looking for new ways to remember his mate.
This year Mr Sprague has written a poem, with the help of Tasmanian editor and poet Susan Scott.
We were the Queen’s young Anzac pride, Staunch mates - whose hearts and fates collide, Roden Cutler’s bravery our guide - We came from Burke and Wills’s rich dirt, From coastlines where the beaches skirt, In our leisurely time - long before limbs hurt, ...Short of Summer.
We rode that officercommissioning high, The
Delta Blues cup year, We left the rear with all their gear, With Fuss’s resounding cheer in our ear, ...Short of Summer.
A Manly trip for a history course, Melbourne weekends on the sauce, Centuries-old customs to enforce - Cigars and port over games of chess, A cocktail party, dressed our best, With stunning girls, our fleeting guests, ...Short of Summer.
We studied doctrine, fought to pass, Evals on guns, exams in class, Then Anzac Day with
polished brass
Our Fuss was sharp, with charming wit, So keen and kind, so bright and fit, A gunner striving, bit by bit, ...Short of Summer.
The scent of cordite, recce runs, Now fully qualified on the guns, The pinnacle skill was yet to come - Michaelthe first to breach the lip, He was rapier-fine, and like a whip, A Forward Observer, he’d reached the tip.
Then came the call - training done
Facing down the terror’s hue, The shock of 9/11’s due, The Bali atrocity included too - With danger in Afghanistan,
He headed fearless to the sand, To stand with U.S. allied command.
We lost Michael on his own, Returned to his mountain home, Cheated of chance to marry Joan, You were our hard-charging best, Thoughtful and caring, Chaplains blessed, Your brilliant laugh still rings the Mess.
Shot, over... ...Shot, out.
Our silenced gunner, We lost you short of Summer. ...So very short of Summer.
Rounds complete, over... ...Rounds complete, out.
By Andrew VIVIAN
IT wouldn’t be Christmas in Sawtell without the annual Carols by Candlelight on the Village Green, organised by the Sawtell Uniting Church and friends.
“The focus on this, our 19th Carols by Candlelight, is again family and community,” said Chris Dunkerley, one of the
“When traditional Christmas Carols are sung, children’s eyes are bright, and simple Christmas goodwill is shared.”
Electric candles will be available for sale and song books will be available for a small donation.
Each year, a different organisation is supported by the carols event.
This year, all proceeds are going to Lifeline North Coast to aid them in providing their vital community services.
Food vans and tents selling a range of food and drink such as pizza, coffee and ice cream will be on site, as well as some First Avenue food options on the way to the event.
Sawtell Carols by Candlelight is a free, family-friendly opportunity to enjoy a night out with friends in a relaxed location at the centre of the Sawtell community.
Carolers can walk into the more-than-a-century-old Village Green at the Big4 Caravan Park from 6pm to set up a family picnic, before Santa visits courtesy of some local transport at 7.15pm.
The singing of traditional Christmas Carols begins at 7.30pm.
Keep up to date at: https:// sawtell.uca.org.au/ and the ‘Sawtell Carols By Candlelight’ Facebook page.
q People’s Choice from the 30 x 30 exhibition, ‘The Forest’ by Annie Houston.
By Andrea FERRARI
“SUMMER Time”, the last exhibition of the year for the Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group (CHCAG), opened at the Coffs Harbour Showground Gallery on Sunday, 7 December.
“Summer Time has an open theme, though many of our members’ works certainly evoke the season,” CHCAG President Sue Roberts said.
“We chose to combine the exhibition opening with our Christmas party, creating a festive atmosphere with lucky door prizes, raffle draws, a Christmas hat competition and plenty of festive food and drinks.”
Extra fun on opening day came in the form of seven raffled hampers, a lucky door prize, and eighteen lucky dip prizes.
CHCAG member Maggy Hayne took
home both the lucky door prize and a lucky dip.
Ken Pay and Yvonne Smith won Best Christmas Hat from a creative and cheerful field of entries.
“We’re fortunate to have a watercolour artwork by Stella Herbrand Pearse as our next raffle prize,” Sue said.
“It’s a wonderful way to support our community art group and an excellent prize for the lucky winner.”
The previous exhibition’s (30 x 30) People’s Choice Award went to Annie Houston for her work “The Forest”.
Annie said she was surprised and delighted by the recognition.
The exhibition runs until 4 February, giving members, committee, and tutors time over the festive season to work towards
Free Community Lunch
CHCAG’s first exhibition of 2026, titled “The Best Things in Life Are Free”.
Planning for 2026 is already underway, with Term 1 classes confirmed and enrolments coming in.
“I’m sure it will be another exciting year for our members and students, with the
return of old favourites and the introduction of something new - Coloured Pencils - into the mix,” Sue said.
The Gallery is open Monday to Saturday (except public holidays) from 10am to 2pm, with free entry. All artworks are for sale.
Venue: Exhibition Hall, Coffs Showgrounds
Date: Thursday 25 December 2025
Time: 10:00am - 1:30pm (Lunch served from 11:30am)
Santa, lucky door prizes, entertainment, lots of community spirit
For those who are alone for Christmas, please feel free to come along - the more the merrier!!!
Registrations: Coffs Neighbourhood Centre, 2airFM or email coffschristmaslunchforu@gmail.com ‘Walk-ins’ also welcome.
Enquiries: Ange 0434 080 174 or Nick 0423 675 673
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Tallowood Mountain Rail Trail restoration project has reached a significant milestone, with the boiler of the 148-year-old steam engine ‘1919’ officially inspected and certified for
operation.
Over the past year, a dedicated volunteer crew led by a professional engineer has been working through the repairs and rigorous testing needed to get ‘1919’ to this final stage of its journey - up and running as a working
steam train.
Operations Manager Stewart Mackie summed up the excitement when the whistle finally blew.
“Yesterday 1919 could be described as 60 tonnes of inanimate steel,” he said.
“Today 1919 has a soul –
and it can only get better.”
The next step, now the testing has been certified, is accreditation with the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator.
Once that has been achieved, and the rails repaired, Coffs Coast locals and visitors will be able to go back in time by riding on a historic steam train.
In further news, a $15,000 grant has been received from Transport Heritage NSW for works on one of the two intact historic passenger carriages set to form part of the Rail Trail experience.
To add to the excitement, Shannondale Steam Shed, another not-for-profit group, has moved into a vacant shed in the Glenreagh precinct.
“They work on preserving all types of fascinating vintage steam machinery
THE NSW Government is rewriting the framework that determines road management in NSW, announcing a new road recategorisation system this week.
The move comes in an attempt to provide local councils with certainty over who will manage and maintain different roads, allowing for more targeted investment where it is most needed.
AS the donation period draws to a close, The Salvation Army, Newcastle Permanent, and Greater Bank are encouraging the community to support their annual Christmas Toy Drive Appeal and help share the spirit of the season.
Each year the annual Toy Drive delivers thousands of gifts to children and families facing hardship at Christmas time.
Plenty of gifts have already been donated, including classics like play sets, LEGO, vouchers and Barbies, which will all find their way into hands on Christmas morning, bringing joy to children across the region.
The Salvation Army’s Public Relations and Community Fundraising
Road recategorisation is the process used to decide whether a road should be managed as a State, Regional or Local road.
This system determines who maintains it, who funds it and how it fits into the broader transport network.
The new framework includes statewide criteria for recategorisation; an ‘always-open’ application pathway; a new online selfassessment data tool for
councils; and prioritisation for roads that unlock housing, freight efficiency, resilience and major infrastructure delivery.
NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “For decades, councils have been stuck with a slow, ad-hoc system.
“From today, decisions will be driven by evidence and need, not politics or outdated processes.
“This new system is
designed to help roads receive the appropriate investment and ongoing care, supporting better outcomes for our communities.
“Clear criteria and modern data tools mean these decisions are no longer left to chance or politics.
“Everyone can see the basis for a category change, and that brings greater transparency and
and associated equipment and they will also be demonstrating steam engines from their shed at Glenreagh in the near future,” said Wal Muir, Chairman of Tallowood Ventures Ltd, the not-forprofit charity behind the Rail Trail.
“Having the Shannondale volunteers here too means that steam junkies and anyone with an interest in our industrial heritage will have so much more to see and enjoy.
“But before we can fully open up train rides to the public, we need funding for infrastructure such as fencing, signage, ramps to access the platform, water tank for steam operations, parking, and amenities.
“We’re putting a call-out to any local businesses who would be willing to donate
confidence to the system.”
Chairman of the Country Mayors Association of NSW, Mayor Rick Firman OAM, said the move is a positive step forward for regional and rural councils who have been “managing enormous road networks with limited resources and increasingly severe weather impacts”.
“The new framework gives our councils a fair opportunity to have roads properly recognised for their current use, not what they looked like 20 years ago,” he said.
services, or funds, as well as public donations.
“Locale Consulting from Woolgoolga are working with us on a plan for the precinct.
“Coffs Harbour Hardwoods have already very kindly donated equipment, and timber offcuts for the steam engine in the future.”
Keen volunteers are now being invited to help replace around 300 sleepers along the rails as far as Tallawudjah Creek Road in the initial phase of the replacement program.
Donations of $100 per sleeper are also being sought.
“For each donation, a plaque will be applied to your sleeper so that your generosity can be seen in situ and one from your group will be able to toot the steam whistle.”
You can donate via the Tallowood GoFundMe page. For more information email info@ tallowoodventures.com.
“Being able to apply at any time, backed by clear criteria and data, is a major improvement.
“It will help councils plan, budget and deliver work more efficiently for our communities.”
With the portal now live, local councils and road managers will be able to put forward proposals for recategorisation.
Reviews of the system and processes will be conducted at three months, six months and then annually to refine the model.
Manager Rod Dibley said whilst the community’s generosity has been remarkable, there are still hundreds of families needing support.
“If you would like to offer your support, we recommend gift vouchers for teens, with books, toys, and sporting equipment for younger children,” Mr Dibley said.
“We are seeing more need than ever before, so even the smallest donation can make a meaningful difference for a child this Christmas.”
NGM Group’s Head of Community and Sustainability Kirrah McClelland said that every child deserves to share in the wonder of Christmas.
“It has been very moving to see all the beautiful gifts that have been donated so
far by our customers and our community,” she said.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has supported this initiative with us, and we hope to help as many families as possible this year to make Christmas truly special.”
With over 7,500 gifts donated at Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank branches last year, The Salvation Army Toy Drive Appeal hopes to maintain this momentum and bring Christmas magic to families across the region.
Donations can be made at any Newcastle Permanent or Greater Bank branch until Friday 12 December.
Gifts should be new and unwrapped and are accepted for all ages, including teenagers.
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Little Upholstery Shop, a veteran-owned business in Coffs Harbour, has partnered with two major national suppliers to fully fund and fulfill the job of refurbishing the worn grandstand seating at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary.
A Veteran Business Community-certified operator, The Little Upholstery Shop initiated the upgrade after learning that the Sanctuary’s grandstand, used daily for visitor presentations that help fund its operations, was in dire need of renewal.
“Coffs Coast Wildlife
Sanctuary does incredible work caring for sick and injured animals,” said Jason Pell, owner of The Little Upholstery Shop.
“Improving the grandstand felt like a small but meaningful way we could contribute to their mission and enhance the visitor experience.”
Following an onsite visit and discussions with Sanctuary Manager Tiga Cross, Mr Pell contacted two long-term suppliers. Dunlop Foam is supplying high-quality foam for all new seating and Ricky Richards is providing durable outdoor upholstery fabric, while The
Little Upholstery Shop will deliver all labour, upholstery work and installation.
All three organisations have committed to donating everything that is required to complete the job.
The refurbishment involves replacing and reupholstering the entire grandstand seating to create a more comfortable, longlasting and welcoming space for visitors attending wildlife talks and presentations.
Mr Pell said the project resonated strongly with all partners.
“When we spoke with Ricky Richards and Dunlop Foam, it was clear we shared
a commitment to giving back.
“This is a genuine community driven project built on shared values.”
The Little Upholstery Shop’s team includes two apprentices, Jasper and Jesse, who are contributing significantly to the work.
“Jasper is nearing completion of his four-year apprenticeship, while Jesse, who arrived in Australia as a refugee from Myanmar, has shown exceptional dedication as he builds a new life and career in Coffs Harbour.”
The project is now underway, with completion expected in early January.
Tiga Cross said that the
q The Little Upholstery Shop team and Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary team at the grandstand.
partnership shows how deeply the local community cares about local wildlife.
“The generosity of The Little Upholstery Shop, Dunlop
will
we
for.”
CITY of Coffs Harbour is set to extend its current Waste Collection Services Contract.
The arrangements with JJ Richards are scheduled to conclude in March 2027, however the City has an option to extend to 2029, and Council has resolved to delegate authority to the General Manager to do so.
“Strategically, this move will align us timewise with an expiring agreement for the Bellingen and Nambucca councils,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“It also gives us a level of certainty as we press ahead with development of a central waste transfer station and renewal of our FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) processing contract.”
At its meeting on 27 November, Council also resolved to novate the waste collection contract to JJ Richards, who acquired majority shares in Handybin (the previous legal contractor) in March.
JJ Richards provides domestic, commercial,
industrial and specialised waste services across 63 local government areas, servicing some 2.5 million wheelie bins weekly.
City Infrastructure
Acting Director Daniel Noble said the two-year extension option makes sense given the dynamics in waste servicing contracting on the Mid North Coast.
“The City already partners with Nambucca and Bellingen Councils as members of the Coffs Coast Waste Service,” Mr Noble said.
“Through that relationship we are able to work collaboratively on education and awareness initiatives aimed at reducing landfill reliance, increasing recycling and resource recovery.
“Sitting to the side of that tripartite agreement, Nambucca and Bellingen have a Memorandum of Understanding with Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) which allows those councils to investigate waste and resource recovery joint contract
By Karen FILEWOOD
ORIGINALLY called Midget, the 25-ton steamship Wyong was built at Balmain for Thomas Childs and Charles Stevenson of Sydney in 1884.
Being small at 74ft long, 5ft 9in deep with a 15ft 6in beam (width) the ship was primarily used as a tug.
Having entered
government service, the vessel was sent to Bellinger Heads in September 1901 to deliver monthly supplies and mail to the lighthouse keepers’ families living on South Solitary Island.
Under Captain Thomas Radcliffe, engineer Benjamin Nelson and three sailors, the ship began its fourth trip to the island at 7 am on 12
November 1901.
Arriving at 10.30 am they landed the cargo, then went about 1 ½ miles north-east off the island to fish while waiting for a signal to pick up mail before returning to the mainland.
Due to strong currents the engines were kept on dead slow, however the ship kept drifting to come within
¾ of a mile of the island.
Captain Radcliffe gave the order to start the engines which raced unusually fast, but Wyong did not move.
The engineer thought the shaft had broken, so the captain went to ready the forward anchor.
The engineer again returned to report the shaft
opportunities.
“Nambucca and Bellingen are looking to put in place interim collection arrangements with JJ Richards which would take them potentially through to 2029, so the City will be on a similar time cycle by triggering a two-year extension of its current contract.”
Mayor Williams said a contract extension will provide pricing certainty for the City and plenty of time for the development of a robust tender suite ahead
was fine, so another order was given for the engines to go easy ahead.
Once more the engines raced without moving the ship and the engineer returned to state the propeller was not working.
In the meantime, the vessel was drifting ever closer to Solitary Island and the captain let go the anchor but it did not hold.
In desperation, he ordered the crew into the
of new contracts being considered by Council by March 2028, to come into effect from March 2029.
“City staff advise the current contract – which was first signed in 2017 - continues to provide overall best value for the community,” she said.
The City’s waste collection service contract covers kerbside collection (red, yellow and green bins) and recyclables processing and operation of the Materials Recovery Facility.
boats and moments later Wyong drifted into the rocks surrounding the island, then sank stern first.
Rowing 10 miles to Coffs Harbour the crew arrived at 4 pm and sent a telegram about the wreck to Sydney.
Busy writing replies to their mail, no-one from the lighthouse noticed the events taking place beside the island until they saw Wyong’s remnants later that afternoon.
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Coffs Coast Veterans Wellbeing Centre (CCVWC) has moved into a new home on Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour, on the ground floor of the CODA apartment complex.
The CCVWC is the northern hub of the Veterans Wellbeing Network (VWN) which has operated out of the Legacy Opportunity Shop in Scarba Street for the past ten years.
“The Centre’s mission is to support transitioning Defence Force personnel,
veterans and their families across the Mid North Coast, while first responders are also welcome,” CCVWC SubCommittee member Richard Kelloway told News Of The Area.
“Promoting wellbeing, resilience and selfsufficiency is its objective.
“It would not have been created without the great support of C.ex Coffs.”
wellbeing support.
“Advocates from the RSL and Legacy join others from the Vietnam Veterans, Submariners, Naval, Air Force, and PeacemakerPeacekeeper Associations,” Mr Kelloway said.
The new CCVWC features a home-like environment.
“Designed and furnished professionally, it is roomy, comfortable, safe and private,” Mr Kelloway said.
Large 55-inch TV screens in three rooms allow for family or groups of eight to videoconference with health and other service providers,
or distant family and friends.
An IT kiosk with three booths offers secure internet connections.
“You will find carpet and curtains, a comfortable couch and a Nespresso coffee while you discuss your needs with an advocate,” Mr Kelloway said.
“You can access the DVA website, lodge claims through MyService, or complete a triage form in the VWN veteran wellbeing database.
“Come and experience for yourself.”
families, first responders and the Coffs Coast and Nambucca Valley community are welcome.
The CCVWC is open 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.
Access to facilities and all services are free.
NSW Minister of Veterans David Harris MP visited the rooms on Wednesday 3 December accompanied by Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp.
officially open the CCVWC.
In November it was announced that the VWN is the recipient of the APAC Insider Business Award for Best Veterans’ Wellbeing and Support Network 2025 – Australia.
event as part of a team.
“I was out of gas at the end,” she said.
By Andrea FERRARI
A PUMPED pack of 96 women swam, cycled and ran their best in the Coffs Triathlon Club’s annual Women’s Open Race on Sunday morning, 7 December.
With personal stories of bravery, self-set speed goals and collegiate teams sharing the load, the girls gave it their all, raising around $1,500 plus goods for Pete’s Place, the local drop-in serviced hub for those at risk of homelessness.
Attracting women from outside the club to “try a tri”, the Women’s Open Triathlon offers a range of distances
The VWN evolved over a ten-year period as volunteer advocates came together from eleven different exservice organisations to collaboratively provide and combinations of the three disciplines.
“We welcomed lots of new faces, with so many first-time athletes stepping up and giving it a go,” club spokesperson Alira Capararo told News Of The Area.
“The beautiful weather conditions set the scene for an absolutely cracking morning filled with encouragement, laughter, and the incredible spirit of our club.”
Occasional participant Kelsey Van Gastel, whose brother and Triathlon Club member Sam “made” her race, took up the cycling portion of the Super Sprint
It was the transitions that first-timer Morgan Lewis found tough.
“Mum and I did a half marathon recently so we thought we’d change it up to a well-rounded triathlon, but we need to train up on the transitions.”
A group of occupational therapists from Coffs Harbour Hospital teamed up for the event “for fun”.
Mia Lefebvre from the team said she felt “accomplished” afterwards.
Kirsty Condran, who
Veterans and their rallied the OT team, was inspired to do the race after seeing it on Facebook.
In early 2026 the Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Matt Keogh, will
“I did the Women’s Race in March this year (seven months after giving birth) and felt the club’s friendly vibes and thought it would be great to make up a team.”
Shelley Larner and Alisha Collis from Grafton saw the race as training for the Camino de Santiago walk they have booked in for June 2026.
“We were motivated as a pair, looking to each other for encouragement, cracking jokes and having a giggle and we made it to the end…it was about participation not gold
The Award is based on the Network’s service to veterans and their families as provided by the committed, knowledgeable and experienced advocates and wellbeing support officers, the Veterans’ Wellbeing Management System and its proven processes.
medals,” they said.
The men of the club were out in force, cheering everyone on and cooking up a post-race breakfast.
“A tonne of fantastic prizes went out, adding to the excitement, and everyone who raced today has been invited back to enjoy another free event with us later this season,” Ms Capararo said.
Race Director Ado Hawke added a huge “thank you” to all the amazing women who came along and gave it their all.
“Your enthusiasm created such a positive atmosphere, and together we’re also
sending off a wonderful donation to Pete’s Place Coffs Harbour.”
Pete’s Place Manager Gai Newman spoke at the prize presentations.
“Our service is powered by community; it came about by people asking for a place to have a shower, to be able to make themselves a coffee, and it would not be able to exist without people like you donating,” she said.
“We see around 110 people every day, people who are sleeping rough or have accommodation but cannot afford to pay for their daily needs.”
By Manny WOOD
TIMMY wakes on Christmas morning, rubs his eyes and stumbles downstairs to the Christmas tree. He is overjoyed to find three presents, bearing a special stamp, stating that they are “Shipped from the North Pole”.
“Thank you, Santa!” he exclaims.
When Timmy’s brother and sister join him, they begin unboxing their Christmas gifts.
His sister unwraps a shiny pink tricycle before his brother reveals a collection of He-Man figurines.
Timmy’s gift is big and heavy.
He feverishly tears open the wrapping, but alas, his heart immediately sinks - A sack of potatoes!?
A handwritten note states; “Naughty boys don’t get presents”.
A devastated Timmy cannot believe it.
He shakes his fist at the sky and screams, “I have been on my best behaviour all year!”
When he calms down, Timmy makes enquiries with Grinch Law, seeking compensation on a “no win no fee” basis.
Proceedings are soon commenced in the Supreme Court of the North Pole.
The hearing is conducted before three judges; the Honourable Jack Frost, the Honourable Tooth Fairy and a particularly grumpy Chief Justice Easter Bunny presides.
At the hearing, under sworn testimony, Santa gives evidence to the effect that under Christmas Lore, he is granted the power to decide, in his sole discretion, who has been naughty and who has been nice.
He further states that his role is a gratuitous one and no contractual relations exist.
He is however, unable to adduce any admissible evidence of Timmy’s alleged “naughtiness”.
The Grinch argues that Santa’s conduct gives rise to an “equitable estoppel”.
He submits that Santa made a representation that nice children will be rewarded with presents.
He states that Timmy reasonably relied on the representation and by not receiving a present, he “suffered detriment”.
In his final submissions, The Grinch forcefully argues that it is unconscionable for Santa to resile from the promise of a gift, seeking “specific performance” and oddly, a lengthy jail term.
The Court refuses to entertain criminal sanctions but rules on the balance of probabilities, that Santa is “estopped” from denying Timmy a special Christmas gift, which with a click of his fingers, magically appears to the rousing cheer of the crowded Courtroom!
Merry Christmas to my devoted readers, clients, colleagues and amazing staff!
This column is not legal advice.
WHILE the Greens have long been accused of putting ideology before pragmatism in our federal political sphere, the recent behaviour of the Nationals and their Coalition partners in scuttling progress towards ‘Net zero’, illustrates just how far the conservatives are prepared to go to hold up Australia’s energy transition and abandon attempts to tackle climate change.
With several big renewable projects held up or abandoned, one has to ask, at what point does this also amount to ‘industrial sabotage’?
History has shown us that uncertainty is a killer to investment, and arguably the most useful contribution the current Labor government has made to the country is an independent energy authority managing the long overdue energy infrastructure roll out.
While ‘follow the money’ was the cautionary advice from one recent NOTA correspondent, it is also a case of ‘follow the ideology’.
Even a cursory look at this ‘go slow’ agenda will reveal the finger prints of Gina and the fossil fuel lobby along with the broader conservative establishment which has long railed against the science of man-
made climate change.
Then there are also the millions in lost tax revenue successive governments have exempted the largest multinationals from, including our largest gas exporter which also just happens to be in the box seat to ‘game’ energy prices.
Remember Scomo’s ‘gas led recovery’ buddies?
While our ageing coal generation falls over, and we struggle to build enough battery capacity the country will continue to depend on gas peaking turbines to smooth electricity generation shortfalls.
Of course we could also ‘follow the technology’.
That would reveal significant incompatibility issues, apart from the high cost and slow build, that current inflexible base load generation such as coal fired and nuclear power generation have with the flexible efficient ‘smart’ grid design we have embarked upon.
And we wonder why electricity prices have gone up, and are likely to stay up for longer.
Regards, Dave WOOD, Boambee East.
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
MY husband's Netflix viewing history shows an abnormal amount of True Crime shows, serial killer series, and murder mysteries. Should I be worried?
Dear Petra,
For some strange reason, many people like having the living daylights scared out of them for relaxation.
I'm not one of them, and it sounds as though you aren't either.
I don't think you should read too much into it.
I like watching musicals but it doesn't mean I'm going to morph into a theatrical performer any time soon.
It may be that your husband likes to remind himself that his life isn't as bad as he thinks.
It may be that he would prefer to be scared by something irrational rather than his own fears.
Perhaps you should watch your husband's reactions to these movies for a better insight into why he watches them. If, for example, he is curled up in the corner of the lounge, covering his eyes, and screaming like Janel Leigh out of Psycho, he is probably just after an adrenaline surge.
If, however, your husband is watching with a deadpan expression (or, worse, smiling in a creepy Norman Bates way) there is potential for worry.
Further, if he is making copious notes in a lockable diary, it's time to run, Petra. Run for the hills (not the hills that frequently appear in horror movies though.
Then you'll be in real trouble).
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
DEAR News Of The Area,
HTUN Htun OO's letter (NOTA 5/12) about nuclear power is a wakeup call for us all.
In the age of misinformation we need to constantly check our sources.
Climate scientists are a good starting point, then independent news media and AI.
Fact and opinion become blurred, often
resulting in poor decision making by those in power, particularly politicians.
So it is important that Coffs Council looks beyond its nose and short term planning by continuing the decades long action on the Renewable Energy and Emissions Reduction Plan.
As Cr Cassell said in his letter (5/12), delaying adoption of the Climate Risk and Adaptation Policy for politics is a huge worry
News Of The Area,
THANKS to Htun Htun (5/12/25) for the lesson on nuclear vs renewables.
No doubt human ingenuity will find a solution within 100,000 years for safe storage.
After all, the world was thought to be flat at one time.
Presently there are approximately 400 nuclear power installations around the world, with another 314 new installations on the way in various countries including China, US, Egypt, UK, and of all places, Myanmar (with Russian assistance).
Sorry, but countries are not phasing out nuclear.
Seventy countries are in the mix.
Do us another favour and go to Wellington, NSW and help the locals sort out the mess with the bushfire caused by (eye witness report) the solar farm.
Do we need to feed our families now and keep the lights on?
That is the $275 question.
Warm regards, Con VAN DARTEL, Sawtell.
when we need experts guiding decisions not opinions of denial.
The Climate Change Policy was first adopted by Council back in 2013.
Let's keep moving forward and retaining our reputation as an eco-certified City.
Regards, Elaine SHERWOOD, Coffs Harbour.
DEAR News Of The Area,
AUSTRALIA has just hit a historic milestone: renewables have overtaken fossil fuels for the first time.
This isn’t a blip - it’s the acceleration of an energy transition that is now economically unstoppable.
Solar, wind, and battery storage are
DEAR News Of The Area,
AS a 90-year-old woman who has lived long enough to witness profound changes in our climate, I am alarmed that we are now facing a crisis so serious that could see the world’s climate collapse.
The worsening heatwaves, coastal erosion, drought, floods, hailstorms, and other extreme weather events are not
dominating new investment globally, and Australia is finally reflecting that reality.
That’s why the recent moves by the Liberal and National parties to attack renewable projects, weaken climate commitments, and revive fossil-fuel fantasies are not just out of touch - they are politically reckless.
These parties are planting their flag
on the wrong side of history at the exact moment the rest of the world is surging ahead. Trying to slow down the cleanenergy transition now isn’t leadership; it’s sabotage dressed up as ideology.
Coffs Harbour Council should not be intimidated by this noise.
Quite the opposite: Council should feel confident aligning with the national data and overwhelming international trends. Clean energy is cheaper, faster, job-rich, and economically stabilising.
DEAR News Of The Area,
A NUMBER of correspondents to these pages are of the opinion that so-called 'renewables' are the cheapest form of energy.
They're technically wrong; energy from the wind and sun is actually free.
It's the superstructure that supports this
abstract predictions, they are today’s reality.
Yet our local government remains disturbingly unprepared for what is coming.
Cr Cassell’s letter (5/12/25) clearly said local councils carry a clear responsibility to meet net-zero emissions by 2030, not as a gesture but as a moral duty grounded in respect for future generations.
Every tonne of carbon we fail to avoid
DEAR News Of The Area,
I AM frustrated.
Today I used my precious fuel to drive from Sawtell to Coffs to do laps.
Why did I drive to Coffs when there is a public pool in Sawtell you ask?
Because the Department of Education has for the fourth week running booked
generation that is costing Australians billions of dollars.
We don't actually know exactly how much because we are not being told.
However, estimates as high as $1 trillion are not unusual.
Australian authorities and government are banking on technology that is hard to buy
now is a burden passed to our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Any delay in emissions-reduction targets is not simply poor planning; it is a denial of that responsibility.
In Coffs Harbour, the inaction has been especially disheartening.
It seems the City of Coffs Harbour has failed to adequately fund, staff or resource meaningful climate-mitigation measures.
and yet to be proven at a scale necessary to provide base load power to our network.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) is having to intervene, by juggling the system, to avoid 'brown outs'.
These interventions disrupt industry and business and all add to costs borne by the consumer.
Heavily subsidised battery installations are running at about 1,800 per day - only a small fraction of householders with solar
Communities that embrace it early will reap the benefits - lower bills, local industry growth, and insulation from global fossil-fuel volatility.
Coffs has an opportunity to lead.
The transition is happening whether Canberra’s conservatives like it or not.
The smart move is to lean in - boldly.
Warm regards, Christopher MEDER, Toormina.
Reports and strategies have been produced, yet implementation has stalled. Why? Time is not on our side.
If someone my age can grasp the urgency of this moment, why can’t Council?
We deserve leadership that is honest about the risks, bold in its decisions, and unwavering in its commitment to a safer future for all.
Regards Wilma EYRES, Emerald Beach.
panels but still costing taxpayers billions of dollars.
And the reality for grid planners and power utilities is that many of the often wealthy individuals and households who can afford to install these subsidised batteries, do not want to make them available to the grid.
Yours sincerely, Jeffrey COX, North Boambee Valley.
four out of five lanes for valuable learn to swim activities.
I've tried using the one middle lane available for 'casual swimmers'.
As this is the middle lane of five it is difficult to get in the pool and lap swimming is not a relaxing healthy activity as kids arms, legs and floaties become obstacles in this lane.
Not intentional but distracting and the noise is not relaxing.
I drove to Coffs as I really wanted to destress doing my laps and get feel-good moments of good non-impactful exercise.
The 50 metre pool was booked out until lunchtime with a school carnival.
ARGHHHH.
I've tried checking the pool’s website
for information on lane availability and this is, to my knowledge, never updated. City of Coffs Harbour, get your act together and live up to the Community Wellbeing elements of the Strategic Plan. Don't get me started on the proposed aquatic centre changes.
I'll leave that to another day.
Kind regards, Deb WALL, Toormina.
DEAR News Of The Area,
WHAT is happening to Boambee Creek Reserve?
No one is protecting the beautiful
DEAR News Of The Area,
LAST week I was driving through Grafton and noticed unleaded petrol was $1.68 per litre and I was in Port Macquarie on Sunday, and petrol was the same price as Grafton.
So how can anyone justify people in Coffs Harbour paying up to 15 cents more per litre.
It seems like our airfares, that anyone living in Coffs Harbour is expected to pay a premium to do so. Maybe one of the dozen or so petrol stations in our area might reconsider ripping us off.
Regards, Trevor QUICK, Bonville.
she-oaks, an important food source for wildlife.
The banks are crumbling, with no attempt made to shore them up.
Trees are falling into the creek and causing hazards to children.
Weeds are growing, tables are damaged and generally this beauty spot
is falling into disarray.
No kiosk facilities are available.
On top of this there is still an $8 charge for entry, and no way to return the same day.
The annual fee is still being charged.
When enquiring why, the council blames Reflections, the business
By Andrea FERRARI
BONVILLE Sawtell Lions Club hosted their 31st Seniors Christmas lunch on Sunday 7 December in the Bonville Hall.
It started in the early 1990s, when service clubs and charities held a large, combined senior’s Christmas lunch for Coffs Harbour and Sawtell seniors at the racecourse.
“Seniors from the Bonville area were not invited and were missing out,” club spokesperson Ida Scolari told News Of The Area.
“So the Bonville Lions Club decided to
have lunch for local seniors in the Bonville Hall, a tradition that continues to this day.
“The combined Coffs Harbour Sawtell lunch was cancelled a number of years ago but the Bonville lunch has continued and is great fun.”
responsible.
And Reflections is too busy with other parks.
Somebody needs to be accountable!
Regards, Lesley McDONALD, Sawtell.
Approximately 80 lunches were served to seniors, volunteers and Lions Club members.
Music was provided by volunteer guitarists Mark and James from the Boambee Markets.
q The Bonville seniors enjoy an early Christmas lunch.
Address: 5/32 Victoria Street, Coffs Harbour
Price: $449,000
Beds: 2, Bath: 1, Car: 1
NESTLED in a prime spot
between the lively Coffs Harbour CBD and the vibrant Jetty precinct, 5/32 Victoria Street offers a superb lifestyle
opportunity.
This single-level, twobedroom unit is one of only six in a neat and tidy complex, giving it a sense of exclusivity and quiet comfort.
The carport right at the front provides easy, off-street parking, making every arrival hassle-free.
Step inside to find low-maintenance vinyl and tiled flooring and a fresh, white kitchen complete with a generous benchtop doubling as a dining space-a perfect area for meals or casual entertaining.
Both bedrooms feature built-in robes and ceiling fans, ensuring comfort
and practicality, while the combined laundry and bathroom cleverly includes a shower over a spa bath for added relaxation.
The compact layout is ideal for first home buyers keen to enter the market, downsizers seeking easy living, or savvy investors looking for a solid rental
prospect.
Enjoy being just a short stroll from the CBD, the racecourse, and the cafés, beaches, and attractions of the Jetty precinct are within minutes drive, or with public transport nearby, getting around couldn't be easier.
This unit is the complete
package-central, low on upkeep, and designed for convenience.
Don't miss your chance to secure a fantastic lifestyle or investment in the heart of Coffs Harbour STRATA: $600 per qtr
Agents: Kim McGinty (0432 953 796) and Kaitlyn Walker (0491 734 761).
By Rachel JACKSON, AAP
BILL Fulton recalls counting 1162 dead birds during a four-and-a-half kilometre morning beach walk.
That's a rough average of one every four metres.
But when he tells people about the work and its confronting reality, they're curiously inclined to dismiss it as kind of normal.
"We want people to know that this is different," Mr Fulton tells AAP.
"This is on a mega scale and it's threatening the survival of the species."
Thousands of seabirds washed up on Australia's shoreline during the summer of 2023/24.
Theories differed about what triggered the disaster, although a number of wildlife groups cited poor weather as the most likely reason.
But marine scientist Jennifer Lavers, who specialises in seabird populations as part of her work with research group Adrift Lab, is about to publish a paper claiming a marine heatwave caused the birds to starve to death.
She warns history may repeat too, especially in the event that a future heatwave happens to coincide with an outbreak of a highly contagious strain of bird flu.
"We know from long term monitoring of folks being on beaches birds do not wash up dead and dying every single year," Dr Lavers says.
"So when they do wash up
dead and dying, something anomalous has happened."
Characterised by persistently high ocean temperatures over a minimum of five consecutive days, marine heatwaves can be defined as falling within the top 10 percent of historical temperatures for that time of year.
Two years ago, Dr Lavers says, such an ecological event coincided with seabirds' annual Australian arrival.
About 20 million shearwaters fly every spring from the northern hemisphere to local breeding sites in a trans-equatorial journey that takes them roughly 15,000 kilometres each way.
"They've just migrated enormous distances and are finding far less than ideal conditions," Dr Lavers explains.
"This at a time that they really need ideal conditions."
Data collected for her paper by citizen scientists indicates the dead birds were unusually thin and weak, their food sources driven away by overly warm water.
Having released its ocean temperature forecast for summer, the Bureau of Meteorology predicts further rises in ocean temperature over coming months.
Should a potential heatwave collide with the arrival of a highly contagious strain of H5 bird flu, that would be of heightened concern, Dr Lavers says.
The virus, which affects
poultry, wild birds and some mammals, is present in many parts of the world.
Despite an unusual number of deaths in elephant seal pups on the subAntarctic territory of Heard Island this month, the federal government has downplayed any imminent risk of its arrival in Australia.
The mostly barren volcanic outpost lies about 4000km southwest of Perth but birds such as albatross and shearwater are more than capable of covering much greater distances.
As a starting point, the risk of bird flu introduction remains high particularly through migratory birds.
Dr Lavers is calling for a national seabird beach monitoring program to ensure that if dead birds do start washing up again, the cause can be clearly determined.
"That's something the federal government needs to fix, urgently," she says.
Her paper is backed up by research collected from citizen scientists walking shorelines from Brisbane and Hobart to count carcasses.
Port Stephens photographer Silke Stuckenbrock is one of the contributing volunteers.
She became involved in the project after meeting Dr Lavers through seabird rescue work about 15 years ago.
Capturing images of sick and dead birds is tough but Ms Stuckenbrock says she is
most frustrated by those who dismiss the issue.
"People come up and tell me that this is normal, that's what really gets me," she says.
"I've been in the colonies for over a decade and I've seen them getting quieter.
"We need action."
Mr Fulton is another diehard contributor, sometimes driving up to two hours from his home on the NSW Central Coast to gather data.
Counting dead birds is often confronting but he reckons the task gives much more than it takes.
"It seems dire and sometimes it seems hopeless," he offers.
q Experts want a national seabird beach monitoring program to help explain why mass deaths happen.
By Kim SATCHELL
ESSSENSSSE is a whimsical installation by contemporary artist HOSSEI that draws inspiration from the sand dollar, the sea creature once believed to be the currency of mermaids.
The exhibition is open now and can be seen until 1 February.
The blue walls and blue carpet of the gallery space in Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) in Coffs Harbour provide the aquatic backdrop for this immersive and multi-sensory experience.
The final part of a trilogy mapping body, mind and soul, ESSSENSSSE is an emotive, psycho-sensory display of craft, design and performance.
Featuring costumes of sea creatures and marine life, it is staged as if for a theatrical performance.
Working at a visceral
"But one person can make it a huge change in the world."
According to the federal Department of Environment, the government has invested nearly $36 million in preparing for a potential H5 bird flu outbreak.
"This includes mitigating the impact of other threats such as invasive species, other diseases and heat stress," a spokesperson says.
They also pointed to support for a marine heatwave forecast tool being developed by the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO.
Bird surveillance is being conducted by separate organisations including Parks Australia and The National
is also co-ordinating a pilot program to test a national platform for reporting sick and dead birds, with particular focus on H5.
In addition, BirdLife Australia, is upgrading its Birdata app to allow citizen scientists to report sick or dead birds and creating a breeding habitat register to consolidate existing data.
For anyone wanting to help monitor the seabirds, Dr Lavers recommends signing up through the iNaturalist beached bird database or contributing to the Adrift Lab database.
level for the audience, the exhibition has proven to be a cathartic process for the artist.
HOSSEI told News Of The Area, “I work with an amazing person called Tanya Mijan. She helps me
build and construct the costumes.
“I design [and] sketch them all out then we come together to bring them to life.
“She does all the sewing but I am there every stitch of the way.”
HOSSEI is an Honours graduate of the Sydney College of the Arts. He decided to focus on art practice and community, instead of pursuing further study.
By Aiden BURGESS
BELLINGEN, Nana Glen and Sawtell have made strong starts on the opening day of the initial two-day matches of the first-grade season.
A blistering bowling performance put ladder leaders Sawtell Cricket Club in a commanding position in their match against Coffs Colts Cricket Club at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
The Colts were bowled out for 62 in the 36th over after Sawtell won the toss and elected to bowl.
Trent Dierick took 5-14 from nine overs and Richie Gallichan took 4-21 from 13.5 overs.
Sawtell will resume on 8/221 this weekend.
Tyh Murphy had a great afternoon on Day 1 top scoring with 98.
The Nana Glen Lizards
have also made a strong start in their match against Diggers Cricket Club at Fitzroy Oval.
Nana Glen declared at 9/225 in the 73rd over after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Tom Craig top scored with a knock of 80, and Jesse Ferrett and Zane Guthrie were next best both scoring 42.
Ryan Smoothy took 3-36 from 20 overs for Diggers, captain Chris Novak took 3-82 from 16.2 overs, and
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Basketball Association’s senior summer season continued with Round 6 games played at Sportz Central.
Men’s A Grade ladder
leaders We Can’t Dunk had a 75-43 win against The Chihuahuas.
Jonny Orange and Adam Rickards were joint top scorers with 16 points each.
Narwhals Stingers had a 63-55 win against All Washed
Up, with Blake Rawlinson scoring a game high 17 points.
White Chocolate were also winners in Round 6 defeating Can’t Catch a Breath 54-47.
Joe Greer had a game high 23 points.
Reuben Carey took 2-14 from 12 overs.
Diggers will resume on 1/17 this weekend.
Bellingen District Cricket Club also made a good start in their match against the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
Bellingen set a total of 226 after being bowled out in the 63rd over, with the visitors winning the toss and electing to bat.
Justin Gilbert top scored with a knock of 70, with
The Bricklayers continued their undefeated start to the Men’s C Grade season with a 45-38 win against Walsh’s Plumbing.
Luke Herber top scored with 19 points for the winners.
Narwhals Net Ninjas beat Bricked Up 52-41, with Max Corsalini top scoring with 15
By Aiden BURGESS
SIXERS Cricket League Coffs Harbour’s junior season continued with the penultimate round before the school holidays break.
Under 16s
Sawtell Sloggers continued their undefeated start to the season accounting for Diggers Cricket Club by five wickets at Reg Ryan Oval.
Diggers scored 5/82 from 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Havannah O'Shaughnessy finished on 28 not out, while Oakley Baylis took 2-5 from two overs for Sawtell.
Sawtell reached Diggers’ total in the 13th over, Finlay Bath top scored with 48, and Parker Swan took 2-6 from two overs for Diggers.
The Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels consolidated second spot on the ladder with a seven-wicket win against Coffs Colts Cricket Club at Forsyth Park.
The Colts set a total of 7/69 from their 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Manat Singh took 2-7 from three overs for the Rebels.
The Rebels made quick work of the run chase reaching the target in the ninth over, Balkaran Singh Johal top scored with 30 off 17 balls, and Prabhjot Virk finished on 19 not out off 7 balls.
Bennett Morgan took
2-12 from two overs for the Colts.
The Macksville Bulls had a three wicket win at home against Bellingen/ Dorrigo.
The visitors won the toss and elected to bat, finishing at 6/86 from 20 overs.
Anthony Dyson top scored for Bellingen/ Dorrigo finishing on 39 not out, and Ark Gillett took 2-0 from two overs for the Bulls.
Macksville won with four balls to spare, with Quinn Ledger leading his side home on 56 not out.
Under 16s ladder
1.Sawtell Sloggers. 42 points. 6 wins. 0 losses. 2 no results. Quotient: 1.952. 2.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 40 points. 6 wins. 1 loss. 1 no result. Q: 1.939. 3.Macksville Bulls. 32 points. 4 wins. 2 losses. 2 no results. Q: 1.410. 4.Diggers Cricket Club. 20 points. 2 wins. 5 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.910. 5.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 19 points. 2 wins. 4 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.492. 6.Bellingen/Dorrigo. 10 points. 0 wins. 7 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.497. Under 14s
The Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Lions extended their winning run to seven straight games, remaining undefeated after defeating the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Hawks by 120 runs in Woolgoolga.
The Lions scored 3/164
from 20 overs, after the Hawks won the toss and elected to bowl.
Alex Battaglia retired on 47 not out and Finn Kahler retired on 36 not out.
Archie Stevens took 2-22 from three overs for the Hawks.
The Lions restricted the Hawks to 8/44 from 18 overs, William Jamieson took 2-1 from two overs, and Jennifer Martin took 2-2 from two overs.
Coffs Colts Cricket Club and Sawtell Storm shared the points after having a tie at Toormina Oval.
Sawtell scored 7/79 from 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
The Colts finished on the exact same total of 7/79 from 20 overs, William Byron retired on 36 not out, and Jai Levy took 2-3 from two overs for Sawtell.
Bellingen/Dorrigo beat Diggers Cricket Club by eight wickets in Urunga.
Diggers finished at 8/95 from 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Darcy Franks top scored with 25, while Lev Morris took 2-4 from two overs for
Bellingen/Dorrigo, and Finlay Moffatt took 2-11 from two overs.
Bellingen/Dorrigo chased down the total in the 14th over, Xavier Hartley retired on 47 not out, and Sean Brooks took 2-12 from two overs for Diggers.
The Macksville Bulls consolidated second spot
Jamison Dawes finishing on 47 not out.
Anu Grewal took 3-35 from ten overs for the Rebels, Parvinder Nagra took 2-11 from nine overs, and Manat Singh took 2-32 from six overs.
The Rebels will resume on 2/31 this weekend.
The first-grade season continues this weekend when the two-day matches resume on Saturday afternoon.
First-grade ladder 1.Sawtell Cricket Club.
points.
Women’s Mantas Mermaids continued their undefeated start to the women’s social competition season with a 45-19 win against Dunkin’ Disorderly.
Lisa Austin had a game high 16 points for the winners.
Club Rebels Sharks in Woolgoolga.
on the ladder with a 110run win at home against the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Hawks.
The home side set a total of 166 without a loss of wicket from their 20 overs, after the visitors won the toss and elected to bowl.
John Bell top scored for the Bulls retiring on 36 not out off 20 balls.
Cody Notley was next best, retiring on 28 not out.
The Bulls restricted the Rebels to 6/56 from their 20 overs.
Arjun Singh Sidhu took 2-5 from two overs.
Under 14s ladder
1.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Lions. 42 points. 7 wins. 0 losses. Quotient: 3.348. 2.Macksville Bulls. 34 points. 5 wins. 1 loss. 1 no result. Q: 1.803. 3.Sawtell Storm. 23 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 1 tie. Q: 1.594. 4.Bellingen/Dorrigo. 23 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.666. 5.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 19 points. 2 wins. 4 losses. 1 tie. Q: 0.918. 6.Diggers Cricket Club. 17 points. 2 wins. 5 losses. Q: 0.941. 7.Nana Glen Lizards. 17 points. 2 wins, 5 losses. Q: 0.739. 8.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Hawks. 5 points. 0 wins. 5 losses. Q: 0.131.
Under 12s Diggers Cricket Club remained undefeated after a 142-run win against the Woolgoolga Cricket
42 points. 6 wins. 0 losses. 2 no results. Quotient: 1.805. 2.Bellingen District Cricket Club. 34 points. 4 wins. 1 loss. 3 no results. Q: 1.479. 3.Nana Glen Lizards. 30 points. 4 wins. 3 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.178. 4.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 27 points. 3 wins. 3 losses. 2 no results. Q: 0.975. 5.Diggers Cricket Club. 15 points. 1 win. 6 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.548. 6.Coffs Colts Cricket Club. 14 points. 0 wins. 5 losses. 3 no results. Q: 0.598.
Ring Ins defeated The Mighty Ducks by 44-31, and Mantas Mummas edged out Mantas Mystics 33-32; Brooke Dart had a game high 19 points. The Young Ones were also winners in Round 6 accounting for Erica’s Team 90-48, Indigo Savage had a game high 30 points.
Diggers scored a mammoth 2/192 from 20 overs, after the home side won the toss and elected to bowl.
Sejal Singh Mahal retired on 54 not out off 20 balls and Tre Grant retired on 26 not out.
The Rebels finished at 4/50 from their 20 overs.
Sawtell Sixers maintained second spot on the ladder with a 103-run win against the Dorrigo Buzzards at Toormina Oval.
Sawtell scored 3/140 from 20 overs, after the visitors won the toss and elected to bowl.
Percy Martin top scored retiring on 27 not out and Jai Levy retired on 21 not out.
The Sixers kept the Buzzards to 8/37 from 18.4 overs, Jai Levy took 3-1 from 1.4 overs.
Macksville Bulls Blue maintained third spot on the ladder with a 21-run win at home against the Sawtell Sloggers.
The home side scored 5/100 from 20 overs after Sawtell won the toss and elected to bowl.
Oscar James Chow took 2-11 from three overs for the Sloggers.
The Bulls defended their total as Sawtell finished at 5/79 from 20 overs, Nate Maguire top scored with 23.
Nana Glen Lizards defeated Urunga Cricket Club by 21-runs at Nana Glen.
The home side posted 1/98 from 20 overs after winning the toss and
electing to bat, Louis Harrigan retired on 23 not out.
The Lizards restricted Urunga to 2/77 from 20 overs, with Lennox Cantrill retiring on 24 not out.
Macksville Bulls White were also winners in Round 8, defeating the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Dolphins by nine wickets in Woolgoolga.
The home side scored 7/55 from 20 overs after the Bulls won the toss and elected to bowl.
Oscar Mason took 2-7 from 3.1 overs for the Bulls. The home side chased down the total in the seventh over, Cooper Heinz retired on 23 not out. Under 12s ladder 1.Diggers Cricket Club. 48 points. 8 wins. 0 losses. Quotient: 3.127. 2.Sawtell Sixers. 37 points. 6 wins. 1 loss. Q: 2.766. 3.Macksville Bulls Blue. 40 points. 6 wins. 1 loss. 1 no result. Q: 3.363. 4.Nana Glen Lizards. 35 points. 5 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 0.873 . 5.Sawtell Sloggers. 28 points. 4 wins. 4 losses. Q: 0.861. 6.Urunga Cricket Club. 25 points. 3 wins. 4 losses. 1 tie. Q: 0.664. 7.Macksville Bulls White. 24 points. 3 wins. 3 losses. 1 tie. Q: 1.787. 8.Bellingen. 17 points. 2 wins. 5 losses. Q: 0.622. 9.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Dolphins. 18 points. 2 wins. 6 losses. Q: 0.473. 10.Dorrigo Buzzards. 18 points. 2 wins. 6 losses. Q: 0.359. 11.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Sharks. 5 points. 0 wins. 5 losses. Q: 0.323.
By Aiden BURGESS
VALLEY Braves are once again the champions of the Far North Coast. The Braves Division 1 men’s team won the Sunshine Basketball Conference title, as they defeated all comers to win the representative competition.
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Suns women are champions of the Far North Coast after winning a representative title on their home court.
The Suns won this season’s Sunshine Basketball Conference title with a 6049 victory against the Ballina Breakers in their grand final at Sportz Central.
The grand final win capped off a stellar
representative season in which they won eight of their nine games against Far North Coast teams.
The Suns took a slender 13-11 lead into quarter time against the Breakers, before the two sides headed into half-time locked at 26-26.
The Suns took another slender lead of 45-43 into the final break, setting up a grand stand finish.
The home side held their nerve in the fourth quarter to
win by 11 points and claim the title on their home court in front of the Suns faithful.
Clair Crampton was awarded Most Valuable Player of the grand final, and Kira Juffermans top scored for the Suns with 21 points.
Jordon Kelly was awarded Most Valuable Player of the competition, and Kira Juffermans was named Best Defensive Player.
Suns coach Andrew Wiiliams
The Braves capped off a magnificent undefeated season with a comprehensive 81-59 win against the Lismore Storm, in their grand final at Sportz Central.
It’s the third straight season the Braves have won the Sunshine Basketball Conference title, as they won all ten games against their Far North Coast opposition.
A fast start from the Braves saw them take a 29-11 lead into quarter time in the season decider against the Storm, as they maintained a handy 17-point lead at half-time.
The Braves won the second half 39-34 to run out 22-point winners.
Bryce Sully top scored for the Braves with 26 points, and was awarded Most Valuable Player of the grand final.
Sam Russo and Bryce Sully were both named in the All Star Five for the season, with Russo earning Best Defensive Player honours.
The Braves Division 2 men’s team also won their grand final, triumphing by 81-55 against the Yamba Trawlers at Sportz Central.
Riley Betland top scored for the Braves with 28 points.
Oliver Bond was awarded Most Valuable Player of the grand final, and was also named in the All Star Five for the season.
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Colts, Nana Glen
Lizards and Sawtell Cricket Club Gold have all remained unbeaten in the T20 Cup with victories in Round 3 of the competition.
Sawtell Cricket Club Gold remain undefeated in the T20 Cup, winning their third straight match with a ninewicket win against Diggers Cricket Club at Fitzroy Oval.
Diggers were bowled out for 93 in the 20th over after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Richie Gallichan took 2-10 from four overs for
Sawtell, Trent Dierick took 2-14 from four overs, and Tyh Murphy took 2-5 from 1.1 overs.
Sawtell made light work of the run chase reaching the total in the ninth over.
Tom Rawding finished on 36 not out off 20 balls and Tyh Murphy scored 35 off 19 balls.
The Nana Glen Lizards won their second straight match to start their T20 Cup title defence, beating Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White by nine wickets at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
4/106 from their 20 overs after Nana Glen won the toss and elected to bowl.
Clay Watters-Campbell finished on 44 not out and Raphael Wirth smashed 37 off 21 balls.
Nana Glen made quick work of the run chase reaching the target in the 10th over.
Lincoln Kellett smashed 74 off 34 balls unbeaten to lead his side home and Matt Giri finished on 29 not out.
Rebels Rhinos by six wickets at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
The Rebels won the toss and elected to bat and were bowled out for 90 in the 17th over.
Tony Slaviero took 3-14 from 2.5 overs for the Colts, Christopher McDonald took 2-9 from two overs, and Simon Hopper took 2-30 from four overs.
from four overs for the Rebels.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue were also winners in Round 3, getting the job done by three wickets against Sawtell Cricket Club Blue at Richardson Park.
Sawtell were bowled out for 62 in the 14th over after winning the toss and electing to bat.
The Coffs Colts had an eight-wicket win against Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels White at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park, in their rescheduled opening round match.
The Rebels finished at 8/111 from 20 overs, after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Clay Watters-Campbell was unbeaten on 75 off 55 balls.
By Aiden BURGESS
SAWTELL Cricket Club have ended the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels undefeated run, becoming the first side to beat them this second-grade season.
Sawtell defeated the Rebels by six wickets during their Round 9 match in Woolgoolga.
The Rebels were bowled
The Rebels finished at out for 98 in the 28th over after winning the toss and electing to bat.
The Coffs Colts won their second straight match to start their T20 Cup campaign, defeating the Woolgoolga Cricket Club
The Colts reached the target in the 16th over, captain Patrick Rose led his side home on 31 not out, and Tyler Atkinson was next best with 26.
Ajit Khadka took 2-18
Prabhjot Singh had a super spell taking 6-16 from four overs for the Rebels and Sahibjit Singh took 2-3 from four overs.
The Rebels finished at 7/63 in the 14th over, Denzel Wynne-Primus took 3-20 from four overs for Sawtell, and Zac Levy took 2-16 from three overs.
with 45 off 27 balls.
Joshua de Groot was the pick of the Sawtell bowlers taking 4-14 from five overs, and Zac Levy took 2-18 from six overs.
Sawtell reached the target of 99 in the 25th over, led home by Busby Hibberd on 29 not out, and Zac Levy on 26 not out.
Urunga Cricket Club were also victorious in Round 9, recording a seven-wicket win against the Nana Glen Lizards at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
Nana Glen was bowled out for 215 in the 40th over after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Glen Pearce top scored with a knock of 72 and Lachlan Foster was next best
Kieran Matthews took 3-24 from eight overs for Urunga and Wayne Martin took 3-26 from 5.5 overs.
Chasing 216 for victory, Urunga reached the target in the 38th over.
Thomas Harris finished on 58 not out and Kieran Matthews finished on 51 not out as they led their side home, with opener Peter
Snow scoring 57. Round 10
The second-grade season continues this weekend with the final round of matches before the Christmas/New Years break.
Nana Glen Lizards and Diggers Cricket Club play off at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park, and Sawtell Cricket Club hosts Urunga Cricket Club at Richardson
Christopher McDonald took 3-25 from four overs for the Colts, and Simon Hopper took 2-9 from four overs.
The Colts chased down the Rebels total in the 15th over, Heath Ball finished on 43 not out.
Park.
Second grade ladder 1.Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels. 37 points. 5 wins. 1 loss. 1 tie. 1 no result. Quotient: 1.410. 2.Urunga Cricket Club. 26 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 1 tie. 1 no result. Q: 1.269. 3.Sawtell Cricket Club. 23 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.233. 4.Nana Glen Lizards. 19 points. 2 wins. 4 losses. 1 no result. Q: 1.371. 5.Diggers Cricket Club. 11 points. 1 win. 5 losses. Q: 0.282.
Sawtell Golf Results
By Janet O’DOWD
2025 4BBB RESULTS Winners
Archie & Aussie Foy 89, Col O'Connor & Don Ham 88, Richard Johnson & Neal McCarthy 88c/b Women's State Final to be played at Stonecutters Ridge on 10/12/25. Good Luck to Annie Waters, Margaret Gill &
SSAA Benchrest Results
By Rod MADELEY
DAIRYVILLE range.
Event was Rimfire HB Group Championships, 50m: Bill Buchanan .4952, sg .110.
Table Tennis Results
By Margaret ILES
FRIDAY 5th December, 2025
Division 1
Lachlan Dierkx d Troy Prystasz 3/2, George Ruaporo d Paul Hendriks 3/1, Reece Baker d Troy Prystasz 3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d George Ruaporo 3/0, Reece Baker d George Ruaporo 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx
Woolgoolga Bowl Results
ON THE 30th November twenty Park Beach Travelling Bowlers came to Woolgoolga and had a great game of bowls to music and
Woopi Monday Vets Golf
By Shirley STRAUCH
MONDAY 8th December 2025
Elaine Everitt. 30/11 Men's Wellbeing
Ambrose Mark Mason, Lochie Smith, Rebecca Goldsmith & Ruth Smith 49.875, Jarrod Maloney, Michael Oates, Mitchell Davis & Isaac Hillary & 52.75c/b, Oliver Brearley, Cameron Murdoch, Jack Brearley & James Murdoch 54.125, Brian McKellar, Phillip Forest, Wendy Mason & Chris Turnbull 57.375. NTP 4 Letitia
Keiran Grabham .6408, sg .169. Greg Sutherland .7056, sg .265. Rod Madeley .7304, sg .238. Ian Thompson .7984, sg .242. Peter Fleming .8184, sg .140. Bernie Axford .8208, sg .286. Robert Wells .8744, sg .293. Out of class: Robert Ramsey 1.0396, sg .373.
d Paul Hendriks 3/0, Reece Baker d Paul Hendriks 3/2, Troy Prystasz d George Ruaporo 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Reece Baker 3/0, Troy Prystasz d Paul Hendriks 3/0. WINNER: Lachlan Dierkx from Reece Baker. Division 2
Sharee Templeton d Xavier Campbell 3/0, Char Berglund d Tahli Andreou 3/0, Dominic Arjona d Xavier Campbell 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Tahli Andreou 3/0,
raffles, 100 board and a great lunch. The day was enjoyed by all.
Tuesday 2/12/2025 Rink 2: K Costelloe, D Mason (D) Rick Ryan, D Barnard. (21/18). Rink 3: L Walsh, J Weston (D) S Oliver, R
Winner Michael Skipper 25
R/U Trev Kempnich 26
2nd. R/U John Gantevoort 27
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40
insights from the sidelines.
“Both teams showed incredible poise under pressure,” Dujin said.
“They’ve been building towards this level all year and to see them execute so calmly on the big stage was outstanding.”
The Thunder Girls were forced into a three-set battle after taking the first and dropping the second, but they held their nerve in a tense decider to win 15–11.
“The girls never gave up,” Dujin said.
“They just kept backing each other, and when the big moments came, they took their chances.”
Dujin also credited the collective coaching influence that shaped the squad.
“This result is a credit to Coach Myers’ leadership and also to the foundation laid over the years by Coach Parks and Mr Horton,” he said.
“It’s been a real team effort behind the scenes.”
The Boys Thunder team were equally unstoppable, winning every match in straight sets with a brand of volleyball Dujin described as “clinical and great to watch”.
With Coach Horton absent, former Thunder captain Peter Thang stepped in and made an immediate impact.
McEntire, NTP 7 Robyn O'Dwyer, Michael Oates. NTP 11 Tania Reading, Cyanlee Manlupig. Longest Drive 6 Rebecca Goldsmith, 16 Jarrod Maloney, 14 (2nd shot) Sean Lovering. 2/12 Don Ham 40, Keith Rhoades 39, James Murdoch 38, Kane Hickey 37c/b, Cameron Pollard 37c/b. Balls to 34. NTP7 A: Charles Autry-Hall, B: Jeffrey Vanderwyck (pro pin), C: Justin
Brett Ewington 1.0508, sg .366. 100yds: Greg Sutherland .7048, sg .304. Bill Buchanan .7292, sg .531. Keiran Grabham .7354, sg .530. Robert Wells .7926, sg .290. Ian Thompson .8628, sg .558. Peter Fleming .9102, sg .663. Bernie Axford .9432, sg .741. Out
By Ross HARDAKER
DECEMBER 8th
Single Stableford
Dominic Arjona d Tahli Andreou 3/0, Char Berglund d Sharee Templeton 3/2, Dominic Arjona d
Shaw (13/12). Rink 4: A Plain, B Merchant (D) A Wroe, R Gurber ( 30/14). Rink 5: T McKenzie, P Buck (D) G Lane, G Pallister (19/14).
Rink 6: R Bennell, M Hopes (D) J Gibbons, Fred C ( 26/16).
NTP 4th. Dick Cooper Sue Kempnich
NTP 7th. Michael Skipper
NTP 9th. Chris Robinson Rachael Butler
pushed a very skilled opponent to the limit.”
“Peter’s calm and precise coaching really allowed the boys to play to their strengths,” Dujin said.
“Everybody contributed. It was one of the most complete team performances we’ve had.”
Captain John Hmung set the tone on court, leading rotations that ensured every player enjoyed valuable time in the middle.
“John leads by example,” Dujin said.
“His composure lifts everyone around him.”
Dujin added that Horton deserved enormous credit for the boys’ development.
“He’s been building and mentoring this group for a long time,” he said.
“These results are a reflection of that work.”
While the indoor teams shone at the MNC Gala Day, Orara’s junior and senior beach squads were simultaneously competing at the KO Zone Championships in Coffs Harbour.
The junior girls fought bravely with only three players, claiming the first set before being edged out 2–1.
The senior girls pushed through three strong wins to reach the Grand Final, where they fell agonisingly short against a sharp Coffs Harbour Jetty side.
“It was a massive achievement for our girls,” Dujin said.
“They played with heart and
O'Neil. NTP 11 A:John Veness, B: Greg White, C: Tom McKenna 3/12 Xmas 4 person Ambrose Charmaine Edwards, Sharon Shipman, Jackie Chapman & Natalie Oliver 4/12 Play 9 Geoff Pratt 20 5/12 Medley Stableford Allan Robertson 40. Balls to 31 6/12 Stroke A: David Knudsen 72, B: Rick Filby 69, C: Brian Horder 71c/b. Balls
of Class: Brett Ewington 1.0114, sg .600. Robert Ramsey 1.0576, sg .594. Rod Madeley dnf. Agg: Bill Buchanan .6122. Keiran Grabham .6881. Greg Sutherland .7052. Ian Thompson .8306. Peter Fleming .8643. Bernie Axford .8820. Out of Class: Brett Ewington 1.0486.
15 players faced the starter today, under difficult conditions.
Winner , and recipient of our first Christmas ham, Mike Edsall, with 37 points, on a count back. Run-down, Peter Brotherton and Andrew O'Keeffe, both also
Char Berglund 3/1, Xavier Campbell d Tahli Andreou 3/0, Dominic Arjona d Sharee Templeton 3/1,
Rink 7: G McInerney, C.Davis (D) J Taylor, W Prosser. (29/5).
Friday 5/12/25 Rink 2: J Gibbons, R Whelan,(D) M Hopes R Ryan ( 22/21). Rink 3. Fred C, R Bennell (D) J Hampstead, P Diamond (24/17)
Putting John Gantevoort 13 Rachael won her first ball today but also won the Frog & the NAGA. No birdies today but the rain didn’t
programs.
The junior and senior boys, however, swept through the field to win both titles - the senior boys securing their fourth consecutive Coffs Harbour championship.
A fortnight later, Orara headed north to Evans Head for the North Coast Championships, where both the junior (15s) and senior boys added more silverware to the cabinet.
Led by skipper Tom Khamfoi, the 15s boys survived a tough second set in their opening match before strong serving by Oscar and Hunter carried them home in the final.
“It’s the first time in a long time the boys have won the 15s North Coast title,” Dujin said.
“Their composure under pressure was fantastic.”
The Opens boys defeated Melville in their opener before surviving an epic three-set Grand Final against Kyogle.
With scores locked at 17–16 in the final set, smart play from Meh Reh and strong spiking from Jackson sealed the championship.
“That third set was incredible,” Dujin said.
“Kyogle pushed us all the way. But our boys showed resilience and refused to let the moment get too big.”
The victory secured Orara’s fourth straight North Coast senior boys title, cementing their status as one of the region’s powerhouse
to 76c/b. Gross A: Andrew Dent 80, B: Scott Collins 87, C: Wayne Parkin 91. NTP 7 A: Lochie Smith, B:Scott Collins, C: Mark Geary. NTP 11 A: Clint Samuels, B: Oscar Hickey. Pro pin Andrew Sercombe. NTP 15 David Knudsen 7/12 Mixed Foursomes Championships 2025: Kate & Scott Pollard 121. Nett: Narelle & Aussie Foy 102.5. Balls to 110.5
Robert Ramsey 1.0486. Event was 100yds Centrefire Group: Ray Beavis .3166, sg .215. Peter Fleming .3228, sg .202. Gary Hunt .3788, sg .151. Rob Hamilton .4346, sg .370. Alistair McMillan .4392, sg .276. Peter McGrath .4494, sg .244.
with 37. Gary Teale 36,Grant Cardow 35, Wozz Rawlings 32 c/b.
Bradmans Dave Baldock 22. NTPs 3rd Andrew O'Keeffe, 9th and 18th Wozz Rawlings. Longest Putt Tony Shields.
Char Berglund d Xavier Campbell 3/2. WINNER: Dominic Arjona from Char Berglund.
Rink 4: J Taylor, P Buck (D) L Walsh, A Plain, (19/15) Rink 5: S Oliver, R Shaw (D) J Lynn, B Merchant (26/15) Rink 6 P Allen, G Lane, B Parker (D) C Paten, J Martin, M Kearns (21/17).
help. The Xmas do is on the 22nd. so be there if you can, I know there are some walking wounded but come along & join the festivities.
A culture of teamwork and support fuels success Dujin praised the entire school community - coaches, students, and former players - for creating an environment that breeds continual success.
“The grit, determination and resilience the students showed is
the direct result of the work they put in every week,” he said. “And having our ex-students come back to support and coach created a fantastic atmosphere.
“The comradery between current and former Thunder players is something really special and a special mention to the Coffs Harbour Volleyball Association.”
Horne Toormina
Unrealestate Agent Sawtell Real Estate
Toormina Real Estate
URUNGA/BELLINGEN
IGA Supermarket
Spar Supermarket Urunga
Foodworks Urunga
Urunga Bowling Club
Welcome Dental Urunga
Lindsay’s Oysters
Kombu Wholefoods
Fermount Fire Station
Ray White Real Estate
Bellingen Pet & Vet Supplies
Bellingen Golf Club
Cardows Urunga
Bellingen Diggers Swimming Club
By Lois LANE
4.12.25
WE HAD eight swimmers tonight. RACE 1 $ 50m Freestyle HEAT 1
Elizabeth Casey put the pedal to metal coming first, in second was Amanda Vockler and in third was Jill Williams. HEAT 2
Colin Redman flew off his block coming first, in second was Jo
Coffs Harbour Ladies Golf
By
Leah RAY
TUESDAY 2nd DECEMBER 9
HOLE STABLEFORD A GRADE
WINNERS 1. Frances Gaunt 20 (CB), Jennifer Blake 20 B GRADE
Coffs Harbour Rifle Club
By Geoffrey HARTa
DECEMBER 03 - Howard St Rimfire Range. The 90m Field Class match was conducted with
Mid North Coast Veteran Golfers Association
By Colin CUTT
TUESDAY, 2nd December, 2025, 60 MNC Veteran golfers competed in
Park Beach Mens Bowling Club
By Todd BROWN
OPEN Triples Tuesday 2 December 2025
R Heinrich, P Wirth, M Berube, S Crawford d S Wilson, R Coffey, M Flint, B Nickelson 21 - 15
A Stone, S Bailey, P Wroe d B Johns, G Adams, R Aitken 21 - 20
D Garner, I Trengove, B Garner d S Ward, J Thorn, K Morrison 17 - 16
K Bienefelt, C Weatherall, R Alford d S Kindred, P Lawrence, K
Park Beach Women's Bowls Club
By Anne ORR
SOCIAL Bowls Wednesday 2.12.25. M Webb, D Doyle, M Watt def M England, E Blanton, R Jupp 23-15; T Sullivan, J Clarke, R
Sawtell Bowls Results
By Geoff HAMPSON
MONDAY Twilight Bowls 1/12/25
G Fowler, R Hampson, G Hampson DEF S Larkem, L Preston, C Hill
S Fowler, P Day, N Elford DEF R Avery, J Cherne, C Christian
A Day, L Kratz, K Taylor DEF B Tremayne, I Connors, L Mitchell
C Veerhuis, B Connors, M Friend DEF J Knight, J Chapman, B Kennedy
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls 2/12/25
M Friend, G Pickard, M Sharman DEF J Wheeler, L Savage, C Irvine
Brotherton and in third was Andrew O’Keeffe.
FINAL
There was one bust in the final, Jo Brotherton taking two seconds off her time.
Amanda Vockler came from behind coming first and in the money, in second was Colin Redman and in third was Elizabeth Casey.
RACE 2 25m Freestyle HEAT 1
Jill Williams went like a bat out of hell coming first, in second was Paul Sheridan and in third was
WINNERS 1. Vicky Hunter 21 (CB), 2. Julie Reynolds 21 NTPS - 22nd hole - Marilyn Waterhouse, Julie Reynolds, 26th - Leanne Atkins, Vicky Hunter WEDNESDAY 3rd DECEMBER SINGLE STABLEFORD
A GRADE WINNERS 1. Jacoa
Bailey 44, 2. Tracey Foster 42 (CB) B GRADE WINNERS 1.
17 participants. Master Grade: Ben R 99.13, Jake Buckley 93.6, Daniel Finlay 84.2, A Grade: Johan Greyling 74.0, B Grade: Jeffrey W 96.10, Hayley R 87.4, Member-677 71.3, Steve Cooper 71.1, Danny W 66.3, Carl P 64.0, Mark Pelmore
a single stableford at Dorrigo Golf Course, which was in very good condition. A big thank you, once again, to the Dorrigo ladies for their delicious spread of home cooking. Our members really appreciate their time and effort and always enjoy
Kaaden 22 - 10
C Domjahn, H Major, M Baker d C McLeod, C Keogh, D Hull 34 - 13
V Slater, P Booth, J Dunn d C Hansen, G Stanford, J Phillips 25 - 22
D Catling, R Wisley, M Star d G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campbell 23 - 13
M England, J Barker, C England d M Cutts, A Worboys, J Murtas 22 - 11
W Moore, R Oakley, L Morris d W Grimshaw, J Robinson, G Hinsley 22 - 15
T Brown, J Clarke, S Jones d B Worboys, N McVicar, P Lilley 28 - 14
Crestani def V Maher, L McLean, L McLeod 19-14; M Long, A Orr, A Worboys def N Barker, Y Hinsley, J Pearce-Kennedy 19-11; C McVicar, C Keogh, M Gudgeon, L Loadsman def P Poulton, A McConachy, J Farrell, S Wilson 20-11; S Betts, B Bodel, S Hancock def A.M. Taylor, K Dunn, L Clancy
A Day, M Baguley, J Townsend, E Tindall DEF A Day, N Elford, K Lewis, N Foy
R Cook/H Dodd, B Connors, T Goninan DEF M McDonald, H Muir, N Harvey
WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 3/12/25
B Condon, R Moroz, M Flint DEF A Baker, J Urge, M Sharpe
B Clugston, B Fitzpatrick, S Sillar DEF N Stahlhut, W Vaughn, J Townsend
G Peel. // L Preston DEF P Weir, D Anderson, A Berry
N Wong, L Zecchinati, A Sorbello DEF R Williams, B Martin, P Collins, Brooks, R Cridge, G Dennis DEF P Swan, K Sharman, A Wagstaff
Elizabeth Casey. HEAT 2
Colin Redman and Andrew O’Keeffe made the an exciting race by making it a dead heat, coming first and in third was Peter Allison.
RACE 3 25m Breaststroke HEAT 1
Paul Sheridan showed us how it was done coming first, in second was Amanda Vockler and in third was Jill Williams.
HEAT 2
Andrew O’Keeffe held on by the skin of his teeth coming first, closely followed by in second was
Jenny Schofield 42, 2. Carolyn Daley 41 C GRADE WINNERS 1. Elaine Phillips 46, 2. Lin Zhou 44 NTPs - 3rd Hole - Linda Butler, Janelle Passlow, Rose-Marie Sercombe, 6th - Tracey Foster, Cath Bailey, 12th - Tracey Keene, Fiona O’Meara, Jennifer Blake 15th - Ada Lynch, Denise Turnbull
59.1, Jonathon Mackay 56.4, C Grade: Mitch Upton 78.1, Jay Archibald 60.1, Matt Hoy 54.0, Phil Hartmann 33.1, Sineidin Mackay 14.0
The 50m F-Class match was conducted with 12 participants.
their day at Dorrigo.
A grade: Winner - Jim Fahey 37 c/b, 1st runner-up Wayne Cormick 37, 2nd runner-up Colin Cutt 36 c/b, 3rd runner-up Geoff Knight 36.
B grade: Winner – Robert Rose 43, 1st runner-up Rod McPherson
Triples Thursday 4 December 2025
J Lane, G Adams, R Aitken d W Grimshaw, J Robinson, G Hinsley 19 - 14
T Lainchbury, M Flint, P Toy d J Wellbach, T Wisley, M McCabe 27 - 16
J Booth, P Booth, R Alford d G Loundes, R Douglas, G Stanford 19 - 15
P North, C Hansen, P Lilley d M Miller, S Jones, W Moore 32 - 13
M Berube, C Weatherall, T Erskine d R Felton, H Major, S Dodd 28 – 10
18-15; C Domjahn, J Rodwell, D Futcher def F Gaunt, P Garner, V Slater 20-14. Social Bowls Friday 5.12.25. L Loadsman, J Phillips def R DeMeio, J Wood 25-13; N Lumley, D Lindner def S Bailey, D Walsh 18-12; D Doyle, C Sheridan def R Jupp, M Monck 20-15; K Blow, T Blow def M
R Mitchell, A Brice, P Cook DEF A Jones, M Gibbon, W Kellam
M Hastings, A Vivian, M Auchard DEF I Maderic, G Walsh, M Jenkins
N McClelland, D Frost, N Sillar DEF D Hammond, D Bond, W Meadows
T Lavell, B Blight DEF C Christian, J Hall
THUSDAY 4/12/25 Ladies Triples Championships
Winners -B Connors, B Pyke, N Foy (24) Run Up- N Elford, L Savage, N Harvey (22)
FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls 5/12/25
R Mroz, J Urge, G Dennis DEF M Friend, N Foy, N Harvey G Flynn, J Flynn, D Hyde DEF
Jo Brotherton and in third was Peter Allison.
RACE 4 4 x 50m Relay
Amanda Vockler, Jill Williams, Elizabeth Casey and Paul Sheridan swam like the wind coming first and closely followed by in second was Jo Brotherton, Peter Allison, Andrew O’Keeffe and Colin Redman.
Come and join us for some fun and laughter on Thursday night in Macksville at 5.45.
We woul like to thank our sponsors, Bellingen IGA, The Bellingen Providore and Fullers Fresh.
SATURDAY 6th DECEMBER
SINGLE STABLEFORD OVERALL
WINNERS 1. Liz Quinn 39 (CB) 2. Brenda Fane 39 (CB), 3. Norma Andrews 39 NTPs - 12th holeGayle Jones, 15th - Alex Brett, 15th - Dee Anderson, 22nd - Ada Lynch, 26th - Gloria Hickey BEAVER CUP 2025 - Dot Trevaskis 38
Ben R 197.13, Daniel Finlay 197.4, Johan Greyling 196.10, Hayley R 193.8, Danny W 192.8, Jeffrey W 191.8, Mark Pelmore 191.5, Carl P 191.4, Phil Hartmann 188.4, Mitch Upton 187.5, Member-677 183.2, Daniel Rees 173.1
41, 2nd runner-up Mal Taylor 40, 3rd runner-up Mike Raymond 38. NTP’s: 2/11 Ross Donnelly, 4/13 Brad Reeson, 6/15 Shane Capararo, 7/16 Neil Thomas.
Long putt – Geoff Knight. Ball run to 32 pts.
G Williams, R Beaumont, A Campbell d D Garner, I Trengove, R Harris 23 - 14
A Plain, D Barnard, Brenton M d C Brian, K Crooks, R Kelly 20 - 17
A Dorrington, B Worboys, D Hull d C McCleod, P Newman, G Wallace 17 - 13
R Ryan, G Cunningham, M Hodge d B Trotman, B Garner, D Catling 19 - 18
N Dean, R Host, J Bishop d L Goodacre, P Wirth, A McKee 30 - 8 C Lloyd, GJ Meyer, M Baker d P Moore, G McCuddin, B Walmsley 20 - 19
Trengrove, I Trengrove 20-12; F Gaunt, B Edwards def C McVicar, N McVicar 26-18, A Stone, K Read def R Coffey, C Cutt 28-19; A Orr, R Oakley def D Hargraves, Y Schmidt 25-8; L McLean, P Mclean def M England, C England 19-11; L Clancy, S Hancock def M Cutts, J Murtas 20-11.
Obi G Peel, G Burns
B Fuller, R Fuller, P Day DEF L Hartog, A Baker, K Stirling
A Day, E Nicolaou, A Sorbello DEF K Sharman, C Christian, A Berry
E Tindall, N Staff, J Hall DEF T Brooks, R Cridge, A Taylor
N Stahlhut, D Frost, Jan Townsend DEF Kev Taylor, Ken Taylor, G Hampson
N Kotrozos, L Preston, J Townsend DEF A Jones, M Gibbons, W Kellam
V Watts, G Staunton-Latimer, G Watts DEF R Avery, D Holland, B Blight
N Wong, W Vaughn, D Anderson DEF M Baguley K Lewis, M Flint,
Mark Andrew Fileman
Passed away unexpectedly on 21st November 2025, Aged 60.
Cherished husband of Kelly. Loving father of Caitlin and Claudia, and father-in-law of Joel and Jayden. Adored Poppa to Darcy and Sunny. Son of Paul and Paula (dec). Beloved brother to Matthew, Emma and Sarah, and a cherished uncle to Marcus, Ella, Oscar, Mia and Rubee. Dearly missed by all his friends and extended family.
Forever in our Hearts
Saturday 13th December 2025
8:00am – Paddle Out, Woolgoolga Main Beach near the Surf Club
9:00am – Celebration of Life, 1 Ocean Street, Woolgoolga
We would love to see anyone who knew Mark and wishes to honour his life with us.
VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Shirley Anne
5th December 2025, passed peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital.
Late of Way Way. Much loved partner of Alan. Cherished mother of Maddee and David.
Aged 67 Years
Adored And Forever Missed By All Who Knew Her
Shirley was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Patricia Betty Mellefont
02.04.1934 - 21.11.2025
20 August 1933 – 30 November 2025
Aged 92 Years
Formerly of Coffs Harbour and Safety Beach. Late of Grafton.
Passed away peacefully on Sunday 30 November 2025 at St Frances Aged Care Grafton.
Much loved Mother and Mother-in-Law of Kerri & Marcus, Tim & Joanne, Suzanne & Stephen, and Jocelynne & Tony.
Devoted Grandmother and GreatGrandmother of 11 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren, forever remembered for her kindness and love.
Patricia’s family would like to acknowledge and thank Sandra and the staff at St Francis Aged Care Grafton for their kindness, care and support during her time with them.
Forever in our Hearts
A celebration of Patricia’s life will be held in the near future, where we will share memories of a beautiful life well lived.
Colin Sutton 8th December 2025
Passed away peacefully at Masonic Aged Care. Late of Urunga. Formerly of Raleigh. Beloved husband of Janette (dec). Loving father of Stephen, David, Judi, Carolyn. Proud Dunty & grandfather to James, Anna, Harrison, Laura, Georgia, Jesse and Ella. Loving brother & brother-in-law of Kevin (dec) & Roma, and Shirley (dec).
Aged 89 Years
Reunited With Janette
Colin was privately cremated. Family & friends are respectfully invited to attend Colin’s memorial service to be held on Sunday, 21st December 2025 at 1pm in the Raleigh Hall, 9 Walter Street, Raleigh.
VICTOR RULLIS
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
9th December 2025, passed away peacefully at Coffs Harbour Grange Care Community, late of Toormina, formerly of Mt. Pritchard. Beloved wife of Ron (dec’d). Loving mother of Doug, Brian (dec’d), Rhonda, Lorraine (dec’d) and Sharon. Adored grandmother and great-grandmother. Loved by all their families.
Aged 96 Years
Loving And Gentle With A Soft Soul
Determined Til The End Forever In Our Hearts Cherished Always
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Lorna’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 19th December 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Andrew Bruce Cox
Passed away peacefully at home in Boambee East on 4th December 2025.
Much loved partner of Sue. Loved brother of Adrian, uncle of Paul and Rob. Dearest friend of Mark, Teresa, Emily and Peter.
Aged 68 Years Gone To Sea
Family and friends are invited to attend Andrew’s funeral service to be held at 10.30am on Monday, 15th December 2025 in the Chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi. Livestreaming is available from our website.
02 4981 8882
In Loving Memory of John Joyce 31st August 1934 - 3rd December 2025.
Loved father of Debbie Joyce (Parker) and Lisa Joyce (Redman). Grandfather of Aaron, Megan, Jeremy and Great Grandfather to Ivy. Will be greatly missed. We would love to see any photos or hear stories or memories of Dad.
Friends and family are welcome to attend John's funeral service on Thursday 18th December, 2025 at Bernard Laverty's Funeral Chapel, 4 Glenmore Crescent, Macksville commencing at 11.00am. John's service will be livestreamed via http://www.bernardlaverty.com.au
Bernard Laverty Funerals Tel: 6568 1555 (02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Margaret ‘Joyce’
7th December 2025, passed away peacefully at Coffs Grange Community Care, late of Coffs Harbour. Devoted wife of Jack (dec’d). Loving mum and mum-in-law of Lorraine & Hank and Judith & Frank. Wonderful grandma of Kim, Christi, Amy, Jennifer, Sharon and Andrew. Precious great-grandma to the many little ones who adored her. Joyce lived a long and blessed life filled with love, family and incredible resilience.
Aged 96 Years
Together Again With Her Beloved Jack She Will Be Missed Beyond Words
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Joyce’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Wednesday 17th December 2025 commencing at 1:00 pm.
Please find livestream details on the Hogbin Drive Crematorium Facebook page.
Hogbin Drive Crematorium Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour Ph: 6652 2822
Margaret Ann ‘Marg’
7th December 2025, passed away peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital. Late of Coffs Harbour. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Josh & Colleen and Aaron. Adored nanna of Ethan, Aislinn and Mason.
Aged 75 Years
“May The Force Be With You”
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Margaret’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Monday 15th December 2025 commencing at 1.00 pm.
Family have requested that everyone attending please wear a touch of red.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Gordon Alexander 9th December 2025, passed away peacefully at home in Dairyville. Cherished husband of Jane. Treasured son of Dan & Margaret (both dec’d). Loving brother of Elaine. Proud and loving dad of Luke, Dylan and Gina. Welcoming and caring father-in-law of Gabrielle, Dave, Naarah and Mark.
Adoring grandpa of Charlotte, Eva and Grace. Bestest mates with Bruce. A life lived with heart, humour and love.
Aged 74 Years
His Triumph May Be Parked But His Spirit Rides On
A Private Cremation was held for Gordon at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a Celebration of Gordon’s Life to be held on Saturday 20th December 2025 commencing at 2.00 pm in the Coramba Hotel, Gale Street, Coramba.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Steven William
‘Steve’ ‘Thomo’ 8th December 2025, unexpectedly passed away at home. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly of Dunedin, NZ. Loving husband of Annette. Loved father and father-in-law of Scott (dec’d), Ryan & Donna, Renee & Damien, Melissa & Dan, Mathew & Leona and Daniel & Brooke. Cherished grandad of Cody, Courtney, Kirsten, Maddison, Mia, Jason, Izzy, Scott, Aylah, Savy, Sonny, Sophie, Kruz, Koah and great-grandad of Jakai. Adored brother, brother-in-law and uncle of their families.
Aged 71 Years
“See You Later When Your Legs Are Straighter” Steve will be privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Garage Sale
FRIDAY 12th & Sat 13th of Dec. 46D Palm Grove Place, Moonee Beach 8:00am - 2:00pm moving sale, all must go DVD's, CD's, kitchenware glassware, clothing pictures, sleeping bags tools and much more lots of bargains and free items for your place.
GARAGE sale, Sat 13th of Dec, 10 Harrison street Sawtell. Art/craft books, furniture, jewellery kitchenware, household & other miscellaneous items, not before 8:00am
GARAGE sale, Sat 13th Dec 8am-3pm, 8 Franklin Place, Coffs Harbour massive backyard plant sale brica-brac, toys, new nutrimetics christmas gift ideas
GARAGE sale, Sat 13 Dec, lots of household items, tools, camping equip, etc. 41 Veduta Dr Coffs Hrb, from 8am
Garage Sale
HUGE garage & estate sale. Sat 29th 7am to 3pm, Sun 30th 8am to 1pm, 10 Kotuku St, Coffs Harbour. Tools, antiques electric beds, records kitchenware, plants stairchair lift and many more. e251225
MODEL car garage sale collected over 40 years Dinky M/box Corgi etc Ph 6654 1695, 6 Turon Pde Woolgoolga
WANTED to rent, mature quite, professional lady seeking private kitchenate/granny flat long term preferred, no pets, Ph 0484 649 765 For Rent
Wanted to Buy
FISH tanks x2, accessories wanted if possible decent sizes, Kerrie ph 02 5606 1029 leave message if i'm not home e121225
Free
COMPUTER desk. pick up only. 0428 310 384
DINING table, 2m x 1m heavy hardwood. Jetty area. 0438 758 644 F061125
BABY Love car seat for 4 up to 8 years age. Never used, New cost $110 selling for $50 Ph 0417 937 561 F141125
BABY trailer & jogger pram, two seats. Rain cover incl. Excellent cond $99. 0415 981 605
palm 6ft, $70 0447 839 993
Items for Sale
DOG/cat carriersuit small dog. Near new cond. Safety door. $44.00 Ph 0417 471 225
DOOR Gym set new $50. Ph 0412 081 950
DOUBLE bed, white gas-lift storage, new in box. $99 0415 981 605
HONDA compressor 5.5hp $300. Ph 02 6649 1056 Re290526
HORSE MANURE 0429 583 144
PAIR of lovely jacquared fabric vintage-style footrest 60cm x 40cmx 30cm H $35 each Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
RUBBER matting green, 2.4m x 1.5m with open weave. Ideal for camping. Pic available $25 0439 682 267 f051225
3.4m Savage with trailer rego, 6HP and electric swivel seats, cover safety gear, lots of extras ACF724N. L26949
$2,000. 0427 528 084
BABY walker $10. 0481 966 840
EBIKE, white, as new selling for medical reasons, 2 batteries medmounted motor and extras , $1,600 0427 034 446 AGAVE plants $5 to $10 each 0415 377 383
BAG, large 22" heavy duty aeg tool bag with wheels, as new $40 Ph 0409 561 719
CLOTHES Dryer
Electric oven, Four 16” mag wheels 2 with tyres 0448 802 146
Plants For Sale
4 x bottlebrush, 2 x lillipillies H 1-1.5m, in large pot. $10 each 0412 354 974
FROM $5 100’s of plants including hanging pots Open every day. 11 Sand St Coffs Harbour.
PALMS, Alexander seedlings, 100’s in box approx 1ft tall. $20 6652 8815 e281125
STAGHORNS for sale $20 each 0411 361 205
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
44 gallon drum with lid. $70. 66538337 / 0419 166 688 F110425
1930s vintage cane komode chair w/ genuine fowlerware porcelain chamber pot $95 Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119 F050925
1976 F100 guards, doors grills and bonnet from $100. 0499 684 401
ACOUSTIC guitar amplifier $90 ph 0493 079 313 f051225
AMPLIFIER, for guitar Magnum, with tuner & lead. $25. 0493 079 313 F141125
AWNING with fittings
910mm x 1300mm W Suits back door. $80 0422 099 142
BABY Bjorn bouncer
$30. 0481 966 840
BABY jolly jumper, as new $30. 0481 966 840
BLOODSTONE work boots mens size 11 $50 0491 363 638F020525
BAMBOO wireless keyboard. Something different. New in box. $35 Photos available 0490 161 119
BOOKCASES (2), pine
1.0 W x 0.3 D x 1.83 H good condition, $50 each ono, photos available. 0415 669 378
CAMPING chair Coleman. Ice pouch drink holder, storage net VGC. $35. 0408 223 662 F171025
CHAINSAW, Stihl
$100. 0411 361 205
CHILD’S Bike Seat carrier, child’s bike Helmets x 3. $10 each 0481 966 840
COCA-COLA Memorabilia Collection
$95. 0409 863 898
COFFEE Machine Expressi Capsule from Aldi model: EXP - 19CCMB, as new exc cond. $60. 0417969322
COMMONWEALTH bank original 1988 $5 coin in mint condition to celebrate opening of Parliament House. $45. 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
CRYSTALS , raw tumbled, wands, double terminated, phantoms jewellery etc. Ring Trish 0402 043 490
DINING chairs, grey velvet swivel near new 4 available $40ea ono 0400 513 862
DOG house, smallmedium $15 6656 4700
FISH tank w/ food & loads of accesories. 33” L x 16” W x 18” H. $30 0481 966 840 F101025
FORD V8 Cleveland and Windsor heads and exhaust manifolds from $75. 0499 684 401
FURRY hood jacket
Ladies size 10, toggle front $25 0407 654 879
GARAGE door opener remote control. Merlin Suitae panel door only Less than 5yr old. $100. 0412 776 409
GIRLS Dressing Table Circa 1950’s original mirror & handles $80 0427 544 008
GLASS jar 'Quattro Stagioni' good lid/seal 1.5 litre. $12. Ph: 0407 654 879 F051225
GOLD frame mirror. 75 x 50cm GC $45. Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
GOLF clubs x 2 sets Cleveland & Dunlop Great for beginners Right handed. $100 each. 0427 519 290 F141125
HANDY-CAM Sony HDR-PJ410. VGC $100. 0409 561 719
HERO mobility heavy duty 4 wheel walker 135kg, safe working load exc cond. $95 ph 0490 161 119. Photos can be supplied
HEAVY duty glass table top. 90cm Diameter x 1cm thick $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
HERO 4 wheel walker w/ seat. 136kg safe working load. $85. Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119 F050925
HISENSE chest freezer
H80cm x W52cm x L73cm. $50. 0481 966 840
HUGE vintage buffet 230cm L x 75cm H x 40cm W, requires minor repairs. $65 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
HYDRAULIC lift and tilt controls. $600. Ph 02 6649 1056 Re290526
JIGSAW puzzels x10 $50 for the lot. Ph 0421 362 632
KAWASAKI selfpropelled pro-scape lawn mower WB506SK GC rarely used. Serviced $300. Ph 6649 1056
KITCHEN scales vintage 'KRUPS 875' $45. Ph: 0407 654 879 F051225
KITTY litter house with removal tray. $30 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
LADIES clothing mostly new, size 6. Must sell going cheap. Contact Kim 0403 280 231 F210325
LARGE metal puppy crate. 75cm x 50cm x 60cm H. as new $40 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
LEAD light wall unit 390w x 440h x 100d $65 pic avail. 0439 682 267 F250725
LOUNGE suite green fabric, dbl couch + 2 reclining chairs $100 0412 254 563
MARBLE rolling pin Chill for pastry, crush spices, tenderise meat roll pottery clay $30 0407 654 879
MID century traymobile with bottle holders. $95. 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
MILK frother $15. Never used. 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688
MIRROR, swivel, on stand $100. 0411 361 205
OUTDOOR dining table and 6 chairs with cushion, very GC $250 ono 0458 492 961
PEAK ellipse rollator safewok load 1150kgs only 6mth old As New $95 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
Scooter 2024. As new. $6,000ono. 0428 628 105
PET Carrier: Transport crate, lock safety door Small cat or dog Near new cond. $39 0417 471 225 F241025
PIANOS CHRISTMAS SALE reconditioned and tuned Nov 22 to Dec 19 0402 264 715 e121225
PIANO, small. $100 0466 040 154
PLANT tying tape gun + 8 rolls tape + 5,000 staples $100 0407 654 879
PORCELAIN biscuit jar (8in high) with cream and jam pots, tea strainer and small flat teaspoon holder. $35 0400 641 561
PORTABLE devanti PWM-S-46-BK. Used cond, in working order photos can be sent. Weekend pickup only Coffs Harbour $50 Ph 0456 210 772
PUPPY crate, large. 75cm x 50cm x 60cm H. Only used for 2 months. $45. Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119
PUPPY grooming table. 90cm x 60cm x 77cm H. Never used. $75 Photo can be supplied. 0490 161 119
RED overcoat size 10 Jigsaw brand fabric made in Italy 80% wool Never used. Pic ava. $95 0439 682 267
RENAI Gas Heater, GC $100 ono. 0466 040 154
RIGHT hand palm springs golf clubs, 3 4 5 6 7 8 and 9 irons and PW plus 1 3 & 5 drivers. No putter. Suit beginner. $95 0490 161 119. Photos can be sent.
ROCKING horse carpenter made, safe enjoyable choice of 2 $40 Ph 6652 3791
RUDOLPH reindeers carpenter made, funny decorative wooden animals 400mm $10 Ph 6652 3791
SIMPSONS - large box of character dolls, items & pieces from show. Ex gift for collector $100. 6652 3791
SINGLE bed, GC $100. 0466 040 154
SMALL mobile bench 2 shelves, suit shop or office. $40. 6652 3791
SNOW skis 2019 Volkyl Flair SC 150cm Black Marker bindings, + free Atomic ski boots (women’s 24.5cm) and poles. $75. 0435 131 589 F290825
STAMPS date back to 1900 and prior. First Day Covers unopened 19612004. Offers. Ph Wyn 0417 969 322 F040725
STEAM mop vax, 2 years old, used twice full set of unused microfibre pads shampoo detergent $50. 0410 324 711
STEERING Wheel Lock "Armored Bar" New - Key Locking $50 Fits most vehicles Ph 5633 6352
STOOL seats. Variety size, type and colour. $30 6652 3791
TEASPOONS large collection as new feat various characters $3-5 per spoon 0403 425 913
TOILET bowl, white Never used, still packaged with seat. Best offer. 0411 527 727
TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both 0412 254 563
TWO small wooden childrens wheelbarrows to play or learn planting etc $70. 6652 3791
TV 80cm (32”) + DVD player $100 0491 035 704
TWO macrame wall hangers hand made $50 both 0412 254 563
1999 Auto Merc C200 Elegance. Detailed 373K, excel cond. New battery, 3 new tires, reg Apr 2026. LTP000. Serviced by Merc mechanics. Txt Michael 0422 044 420 Motors
323 Astina wagon 2003. APQ24W rego to Dec 25. $4,000 ono 0415 621 222. HIACE van, no rego great for spares $500 0411
GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING
SATURDAY
SBS VICELAND, 8.30pm
Sam Claflin (pictured) and acting icon Jeremy Irons lead an impressive cast for this epic eight-episode interpretation of Alexandre Dumas’ 1846 novel. The men are cast as prisoners on a forbidding island off the coast of Marseilles. They spend five years chipping away at the mortar between them, with the elder Abbé Faria (Irons) educating Edmond Dantès (Claflin) in multiple subjects before his death gives the younger man a chance to escape. Armed with Faria’s knowledge of a vast treasure, Dantès makes for the island of Monte Cristo to claim his fortune.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Australian Chamber Orchestra’s 50th Gala. Hosted by Jeremy Fernandez and Megan Burslem.
8.30 Maigret. (Final, Mav) Tragedy strikes in Saint-Fiacre. Maigret’s absence in Paris has terrifying consequences.
9.25 Hard Quiz. (Final, PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
9.55 Crime Night! (Final, R)
10.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
10.55 ABC Late News. (Final)
11.15 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+a, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
SUNDAY CRICKET
SEVEN, 7pm
The summer of cricket is now in full swing, treating fans to action left, right and centre. Between Saturday night’s WBBL final, the third Ashes Test commencing in Adelaide tomorrow and the electrifying action of the Big Bash League beginning tonight, cricket lovers are spoiled for choice by the sport’s overlapping fixtures. Live from the Furnace, the first match-up of the Big Bash season pits the Perth Scorchers against the Sydney Sixers. After an early exit in BBL14, the Sixers (aided by new signing, Pakistani superstar Babar Azam) will be eager to make a statement against the most successful side in the league’s history. As cricket legend Aaron Finch (pictured) puts it, “The best thing about the BBL is the unpredictability”.
MONDAY
SBS, 7.35pm
As far as travel companions go, English comedian Bill Bailey (pictured) has to be up there with the zaniest, most affable and entertaining offsiders to hit the road with. Keen to immerse himself in local life, the Black Books star jams with musicians, meditates with monks and enthusiastically connects with the Vietnamese people in this six-part travelogue. Returning to Vietnam a decade after his first visit, Bailey is intrigued by how the country has changed in recent years, but also determined to know more about its ancient stories and history. In this final episode, he sets sail in a traditional boat and weaves through the limestone karsts and mythical waters of Ha Long Bay, learning about its legendary dragons.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Jaws: Making A Splash In Hollywood. 8.30 William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill. (Mav, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Sisi. (Ma, R)
11.40 Culprits. (MA15+v, R)
1.50 Soldiers. (Mal, R)
3.35 Growing A Greener World. (PG, R) 4.35 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 Summer. Melissa King visits Castlemaine. 8.30 MOVIE: The Holiday. (2006, Mls, R) Two women who live on opposite sides of the Atlantic impulsively switch homes for Christmas. Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law.
11.10 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv, R) A biochemist is transformed into a vampire. Jared Leto.
1.15 Miniseries: Any Human Heart. (Malns)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Swimming. Australia v The World.
10.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) The taskforce uncovers a sinister robbery scheme.
11.30 Next Stop. A look at holiday destinations.
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.
1.00 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (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.
SATURDAY, December 13
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Return To Paradise. (Mdv, R) 1.25 Maigret. (Final, Mav, R) 2.20 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG, R) 3.10 Le Concert De Paris 2025. 5.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 5.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. (R)
6.00 Back Roads: Harvey, WA. (R) Lisa Millar visits the town of Harvey, WA.
6.30 When The War Is Over: Afghanistan. (PGa, R) Rachel Griffiths meets artist Ben Quilty.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Return To Paradise. (PGdv) A crime writer is found stabbed to death.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) DCI Vera Stanhope investigates after a young man is found dead following a collision with a car.
10.00 The Forsytes. (R) Soames ends Irene’s Parisian dreams.
10.55 Bergerac. (M, R)
11.40 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks. 6.25 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: The Night Before Christmas In Wonderland. (2024) 8.50 Chopped Junior. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Abbott Elementary. 10.35 Speechless. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.20 Matched. (PG, R) 10.10 New Zealand From A Train. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 When The World Watched. 3.25 Cycling. Cape To Cape MTB. H’lights. 4.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 4.35 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 4.45 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R) 5.35 Britain Under The Nazis. (Premiere)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Wham! Last Christmas Unwrapped. (PGl, R)
8.40 Alpine Hotel At Christmas. (R)
9.35 Osborne House: A Royal Retreat. (PG, R)
10.50 The Real Spies Among Friends. (PGalv, R)
11.45 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
3.05 Being Beethoven. (PG, R)
4.10 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The
Assassin. (2015, PG, Mandarin) 7.55 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 10.20 There’s Still Tomorrow. (2023, Italian) 12.30pm Annie’s Fire. (2022, M, French) 2.40 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 4.45 Delfin. (2019, Spanish) 6.25 The Giants. (2023, PG) 8.30 Michael Collins. (1996, M) 10.55 Erotic Stories. 1.05am La Chimera. (2023, M) 3.30 One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, M)
SUNDAY, December 14
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 10.30 World This Week. (Final, R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 A Dog’s World. (R) 1.25 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.25 Nigella’s Christmas Table. (R) 3.25 Long Lost Family. (R) 4.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PGl, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG)
8.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG) Seven artists return for the semi-final.
8.50 The Forsytes. (Final, PG) Jolyon decides his future.
9.45 Return To Paradise. (PGdv, R)
10.40 When The War Is Over. (PGa, R)
11.10 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)
11.40 Nigella’s Christmas Table. (R)
12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Dream Gardens. (R)
3.40 The Art Of. (PG, R)
4.10 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.10 Annabel Crabb’s Civic Duty. (PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5pm Peppa Pig. 5.10 Stick Man. 5.40 Peter Rabbit. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Niko: Beyond The Northern Lights. (2024, PG) 8.55 MOVIE: A Boy Called Christmas. (2021, PG) 10.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.10 Matched. (PG, R) 10.00 Secrets Of The Deadly T-Rex. (PG, R) 11.00 Secrets Of The Terror Whale. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.35 Ethnic Business Awards. 5.35 Britain Under The Nazis.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Cleopatra: Cracking The Enigma. (PG)
8.30 Ken Burns’ The American Revolution. (PG)
10.40 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (PGav, R)
11.35 Australian Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGn, R)
1.05 Empires Of New York. (Madl, R)
3.35 Dishing It Up Christmas Special. (PGl, R)
4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 APAC Weekly.
VICELAND (31)
10.00
‘90s. 1.50 Bamay.
Jeopardy! 4.25 Fashionista. 4.35 WorldWatch. 5.35 Road To Change. 6.05 MOVIE: Miyazaki, Spirit Of Nature. (2024, PG) 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The Count Of Monte Cristo. 9.35 Rama X: The Mysterious King Of Thailand. 10.40 Liaison. 11.40 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PG) 7.45 The Giants. (2023, PG) 10.00 La Chimera. (2023, M) 12.25pm Michael Collins. (1996, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 5.25 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 7.00 P’tang, Yang, Kipperbang. (1982) 8.30 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 10.50 Blow Dry. (2001, M) 12.30am I Know What You Did Last Summer. (1997, MA15+) 2.20 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Pakenham Cup Day, Ingham Charity Raceday and Gateway Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Women’s Big Bash League. Final.
10.30 Women’s Big Bash League Final Post-Game. Coverage of the WBBL Final post-game.
11.00 MOVIE: The Rock. (1996, MA15+lv, R)
An FBI agent and a convict break into the former Alcatraz prison to stop a renegade general. Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, Ed Harris.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
7TWO (62)
6am Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Our Town. 11.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. Noon Hornby: A Model Empire. 1.00 Harry’s Practice. 1.30 Medical Emergency. 2.00 Christmas With The Salvos. 2.30 Better Homes. 5.00 Horse Racing. Pakenham Cup Day, Ingham Charity Raceday and Gateway Raceday. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Your 4x4. Noon Search4Hurt. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. Sunraysia Safari. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Grown Ups 2. (2013, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: The Kingdom. (2007, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Beretts Tour De Cure. (PG) 1.00 MOVIE: A Christmas Number One. (2021, PGalsv, R) 3.30 Christmas With The Salvos. (PG, R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 1. Perth Scorchers v Sydney Sixers.
10.30 Big Bash League Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the game.
11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. Liam Bartlett sits down with a killer.
12.00 The Queen Unseen. (PG, R) Takes a look at Queen Elizabeth II.
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Our State On A Plate. (R) 12.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (R) 1.00 Drive Safer. (PG) 1.30 My Way. (R) 2.00 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. (PGm, R) 2.30 Eatwell Christmas. 3.30 Getaway Presents France. (PG) 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00 News. 5.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Avatar. (2009, Mv, R) A paraplegic man remotely operates an alien body. Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana.
10.45 MOVIE: The Domestics. (2018, MA15+lv, R) A couple search for safety. Kate Bosworth.
12.30 Getaway Presents France. (PG, R)
1.30 Our State On A Plate. (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)
(82)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00
MOVIE: Random Acts Of Christmas. (2019) 10.50 Motor Racing. FIA Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. Noon Ice Hockey. NHL. St Louis Blues v Chicago Blackhawks. 2.40 Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Brentford. Replay. 4.40 Australian Roulette. 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games. (2012, M) 10.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R)
6.30 The Dog House UK. (PGa) A family of three dogs are split up.
7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) Mary and Tom saved for many years while working at a supermarket and they finally purchased their two-storey dream home.
8.40 Location, Location, Location Australia. (PGa, R) Mitch and Mark search Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and the Mornington Peninsula to help two sets of buyers.
9.40 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) A series of random poisonings occurs. 11.30 FBI. (Masv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tipping Point: Celebrity Special. (PG)
8.10 Events That Changed Australia: Black Saturday. (Ma) 9.20 Red Eye. (Premiere, Ml) A police officer escorts a criminal back to Beijing. 11.20 World’s Most Dangerous Prisoners. (Mv, R)
12.10 Wild Cards. (Mv, R)
1.00 Explore TV. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
The Man With The Golden Gun. (1974, PG) 11.05 Late Programs.
(34) 7MATE (64)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
7.00 William And Harry: The Rise And Fall. (PGa) Explores the relationship between William and Harry, one being the heir apparent, with the other being the spare. 9.00 FBI. (Madv, R) The team races against the clock to take back control of a hijacked train that an unarmed OA and Gemma are riding. 11.00 10 News+. (R) 12.00 NCIS. (Mad, R) The team mourns the loss of Ducky. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
7MATE (64)
6am Morning Programs. 11.20 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Long Beach. H’lights. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Sydney v Adelaide. 2.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester United v West Ham United. 4.30 My Way. 4.35 Young Sheldon. 5.05 Dinner
TV (2)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Take 5. (R) 10.25 Vera. (Ma, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Ningaloo Nyinggulu. (R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.25 Outta Town Adventures. (R) 10.25 Leave No Trace. (Final, PG) 11.20 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Planet Reef. (PGaw, R) 3.00 Going Places. (PGaw, R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Bill Bailey’s Vietnam Adventure. (PG)
8.30 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas.
9.20 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (M)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 The Man Who Died. (Malv) 11.35 Culprits. (MA15+v, R) 1.45 Pagan Peak. (MA15+a, R) 3.45 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.15 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.45 Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 5.55 Knee High Spies. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 TKO: Total Knock Out. (Premiere) 9.15 The Crystal Maze. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning
6am All At Sea. (2010, PG) 7.30 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 9.50 P’tang, Yang, Kipperbang. (1982) 11.20 Man Who Didn’t Want To See The Titanic. (2021, M, Finnish) 12.50pm Blow Dry. (2001, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PG) 4.55 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 7.30 Samia. (2024, M) 9.30 Unforgiven. (1992, M) 11.55 Late Programs.
TV (2)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 The Art Of... (Mns, R) 10.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Forsytes. (Final, PG, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
(PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 When The War Is Over. (Final, PGa)
8.30 The Piano UK. (Final, PG, R)
9.20 The Art Of. (Final, PG)
9.50 The Assembly. (PG, R) 11.20 Escaping Utopia. (Mas, R)
12.20 A Country Road: The Nationals. (R) 1.20 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R)
2.05 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 2.55 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Knee High Spies. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory. 9.10 Super Shark Highway. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
(3)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.15 The Secret Life Of Lighthouses. (PGa, R) 11.10 Who Do You Think You Are? US. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Planet Reef. (PGaw, R) 3.05 Going Places. (PGa, R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG)
9.40 Australia In Colour. (PGa, R) 10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 Families Like Ours. (Mal) 12.10 De Gaulle. (Mav, R)
2.05 Nordland 99. (Mals, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 The Count Of Monte Cristo. 9.35 Hoarders. 11.20 Dark Side Of The Ring. 12.15am Bad Education. 1.25 Count Abdulla. 2.20 The Bloody Decade. 3.15 NHK World
6am The Scarlet And The Black. Continued. (1983, PG) 8.05 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 10.20 Let Me Go. (2023, M, French) 12.05pm Unforgiven. (1992, M) 2.25 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 4.00 P’tang, Yang, Kipperbang. (1982) 5.30 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 7.30 Bandit. (2022, M) 9.50 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 12.20am Taking Lives. (2004, MA15+) 2.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 2. Melbourne Renegades v Brisbane Heat. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the game between the Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat.
11.00 Chicago Fire. (Ma) Violet struggles to write a letter to Carver. 12.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (MA15+s) Abby goes on a date with a TV celebrity.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R)
8.40 MOVIE: Muriel’s Wedding. (1994, Mls, R) A woman leaves her small town to find romance. Toni Collette.
10.50 The Equalizer. (Mav)
11.40 Sight Unseen. (Premiere, Mv)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
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 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 3. Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Thunder.
10.30 Big Bash League Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the game between the Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder.
11.00 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGa) Quinten’s parents visit.
12.00 Miniseries: London Spy. (MA15+ds) Danny is accused by the papers of murder.
1.15 Travel Oz. (R) Hosted by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PG) 8.30 Jamie Durie’s Future House. 9.35 Beyond The Build. 10.35 Wild Cards. (Mv) 11.30 La Brea. (Mav, R) 12.15 Tipping
(2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Australian Chamber Orchestra’s 50th Gala. (R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (PGa, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.15 The Secret Life Of Lighthouses. (PG, R) 11.10 Who Do You Think You Are? US. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Planet Reef. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Costco At Christmas. (R)
8.30 Terror On The Space Station. (PGa)
9.30 Crime. (Madlsv)
10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Elvira. (PGa, R)
2.15 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2024. (Malns, R)
3.50 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.20 Rediscover Victoria. (R)
4.50 Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 How To Train Your Dragon Homecoming. 8.20 Steven Universe. 8.45 Adventure Time. 9.05 Teen Titans Go! 9.30 We Bare Bears. 9.40 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Morning session. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Evening session.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 4. Sydney Sixers v Adelaide Strikers.
10.30 Big Bash League Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the game between the Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers.
11.00 Chicago Fire. (Ma) Kidd connects with a troubled teen.
12.00 MOVIE: Top Of The Class. (2020, Mav, R) A student is accused of murder. Jacqueline Scislowski, Kate Watson.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas On The Alpaca Farm. (2023, G)
Pointless. (PG, R)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
9News Afternoon.
Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (PGl, R)
8.30 Paramedics. (Mm, R) A motorcyclist crashes into parked cars.
9.30 RPA: Jamie’s Baby. (PGm, R)
10.30 American Crime Story. (Madlsv)
12.30 Resident Alien. (Final, Mlv)
1.20 9Honey: He Said She Said. (PG, R)
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.
(82)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. (PGal) Presented by Gordon Ramsay. 8.30 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mav) After three men impersonating ICE officers raid a church, the Fugitive Task Force must find the men who were kidnapped. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 10 News+. (R)
(51)
THURSDAY,
(2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 When The War Is Over. (Final, PGa, R) 10.30 The Piano UK. (Final, PG, R) 11.25 QI. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. (Final) 8.00 Grand Designs Australia. (Final, PG) 9.00 Long Lost Family. (Final) 9.45 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 10.35 The Art Of. (Mln, R) 11.05 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 11.50 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R)
4.30 Gardening Australia: Family Easter Special. (R)
5.30 7.30. (Final, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Knee High Spies. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey.
6am The Zoo. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Master. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30
6am Mr Blake At
Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 8.00 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 10.35 Samia. (2024, M) 12.35pm Bandit. (2022, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 5.35 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 7.40 The Nugget. (2002, M) 9.30 A Good Person. (2023, MA15+) 11.55 Crimes Of The Future. (2022, MA15+) 1.55am Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 4.20 Let Me Go. (2023, M, French)
(3)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.55 The Secret Life Of Lighthouses. (PGav, R) 10.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Nick Knowles Into The Grand Canyon. (PG, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (PGl, R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 ABBA And Elvis In The Outback. (Ml)
8.35 The Untold Story Of The Vatican.
9.35 Vigil. (MA15+av)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Vienna Blood. (Return, MA15+av)
12.10 Outlander. (MA15+asv, R)
1.35 House Of Promises. (Ms, R)
4.15 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
Of Monte Cristo. 9.40 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 10.30 MOVIE: Reservoir Dogs. (1992, MA15+) 12.20am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Australia’s Sleep Revolution. 1.30 Appetite. 2.40 SBS50. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45
Man: 96 Hours In Rio. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Count Of Monte Cristo. 9.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.20 The UnXplained. 11.10 Homicide. 12.05am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 8.15 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 10.20 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 12.50pm Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 5.20 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 7.30 Up In The Air. (2009, M) 9.30 An Unfinished Life. (2005, M) 11.30 Ben Is Back. (2018, M) 1.30am A Good Person. (2023, MA15+) 3.50 Late Programs.
C.ex COFFS SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER, 7PM C.ex WOOLGOOLGA SUNDAY 14 DECEMBER, 3PM
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Morning session. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Evening session.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 5. Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes. From the MCG.
10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. An expert panel examines all the big news and issues with a deep dive into the world of cricket.
11.15 The Amazing Race. (PG) Hosted by Phil Keoghan.
12.45 Life. (Malsv, R) A court reporter is beaten to death.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning.
MOVIE: Merry And Bright. (2019, G, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Great Getaways. (PG) 8.30 Topknotz: Wild On Water.
(82)
6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Clarkson’s Farm. 8.30 MOVIE: Octopussy. (1983, PG) 11.10 Late Programs.
(64)
By David WIGLEY
THE volleyball program at Orara High School has capped off one of its most successful seasons on record, with the ‘Thunder’ claiming Grand Final victories across both indoor and beach competitions.
Both the Girls and Boys indoor teams repeated last year’s heroics at the Mid North Coast (MNC) Gala Day, powering through to their respective Grand Finals before sealing back-to-back titles with composed and clinical performances.
Whilst the volleyball coaches were fully absorbed in coaching the teams, former coach Alex Dujin provided
