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Nurses join Coffs Hospital
FROM Page 1
caring for her patients.
“Being there for different steps of their journey is really special,” Ms Primmer said.
Another Southern Cross University graduate, Zari Blay, was drawn to nursing from a young age.
“I had a lot of family members who were in and out of hospital and unwell, so I just wanted to make a difference in healthcare,” she said.
MNCLHD Acting District Director of Nursing and Midwifery Penny Jones welcomed the new cohort.
“Our nurses and midwives are on the frontline at local hospitals providing care to patients and support to their families around the clock,” she said.
“They will gain first-hand experience of working in regional health facilities and make an invaluable contribution to our local health system and we wish them all the best as they start their careers.”
The new nursing and midwifery graduates join MNCLHD under the GradStart program which will provide them with
opportunities in a variety of clinical settings such as emergency departments, acute hospital services, maternity services, hospital
Murder charges over four deaths in alleged chase crash
By Jack GRAMENZ, AAP
A COFFS Harbour man faces four murder charges after allegedly trying to rob the quartet before their ute left a country road and crashed into a tree, killing all occupants.
Alec St Clair, 29, returns to court in May to face the murder allegations, as well as charges of assault with intent to rob while armed with an offensive weapon and causing grievous bodily harm.
He was refused bail at Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday after an investigation that ran for more than 12 months.
Police allege he was driving a silver Toyota Corolla as it pursued four people in a Mazda BT-50 in the early hours of February 24, 2024.
The ute left Back Channel Rd at Wardell, south of Ballina, and hit a tree.
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Driver Mark Dodds, 36, was killed along with passengers Sophie-Lee Fullagar, 33, Benjamin Watego, 50, and James Doherty, 42.
Their family members joined police in appealing for information in May, when
footage of the alleged chase in the lead-up to the crash was released by investigators.
The footage showed the Corolla closely following the ute as it travelled over a bridge.
"My daughter was an innocent victim in
clinics and health care services delivered in community settings.
q New nurses Eleora Primmer and Zari Blay have joined Coffs Clinical Network.
this and she deserves justice," Ms Fullagar's mother Rebecca said at the time.
"They all deserve justice because they were all people, they all have families," she added.
q Family of crash victim
Sophie-Lee Fullagar joined police in appealing for information on the crash.
Photo: NSW Police.
HOMES FOR HEALTH
FROM Page 1
to tackle the impact of the region’s affordable housing shortage on health services delivery in Bellingen and Dorrigo.
Faced with recent medical service closures, Bellingen Shire Council has partnered with the Bellinger Health Action Group (BHAG) and the Housing Matters Action Group (HMAG) to form the Homes for Health initiative.
Bellingen Mayor Steve Allan opened the forum, highlighting that up to 16 hospital beds across Bellingen and Dorrigo remain closed, and that Hartley House - a medical ward at Bellingen Hospitalhas been shut for over a year. He noted that local health providers had identified the lack of affordable housing as a key barrier to recruiting and retaining nursing staff.
The Mid North Coast Local Health District indicated that the beds cannot be opened because they have not been able to recruit and retain enough nurses – a problem that stretches across the district.
The Homes for Health initiative aims to tackle this issue by “activating the latent capacity” for accommodation within the shire by utilising spare
bedrooms, secondary dwellings, granny flats, and short-term holiday rentals to house healthcare workers.
Viola Morris of BHAG, said the group decided to collaborate on the housing initiative after speaking with hospital staff who identified housing shortages as a major obstacle to attracting
nurses to the town.
This challenge, she added, is further compounded by lower pay rates for NSW nurses compared to other states.
“The concern shared by many at the forum was that the long-term viability of the hospital is at risk, with a quarter of the beds already closed,” Ms Morris said.
“Those closures mean more
q Among local residents supporting the event were HMAG volunteer Ute Schulenberg and BHAG president Pauline Murphy.
q Panel speakers (L-R) Mayor Steve Allan, HMAG chair Kerry Pearse, BHAG member Viola Morris, Welcome Experience coordinator Penny Davidson, and Michael Kemp MP.
patients are being sent to hospitals in Coffs Harbour or Macksville, making it harder for family and friends to visit, especially for residents who avoid highway travel at night.
“Now that we’re in flood and cut off, we can really see the value of having a hospital close to town.”
Welcome Experience coordinator Penny Davidson, emphasised the difficulty in finding affordable accommodation for early career and student nurses.
Based at the Boambee East Community Centre, the service supports essential workers relocating to Bellingen and Coffs Harbour.
“We are presently supporting four Registered Nurses who are due to start work next week in Bellingen or Coffs hospitals but have yet to secure affordable accommodation,” Ms Davidson said.
“We are doing everything we can to assist them, including exploring suitable options with locals who expressed early interest in providing accommodation as part of the new Homes for Health initiative.”
Buoyed by the strong community support, Homes for Health is now launching its first program; a billeting initiative that matches healthcare workers and students with residents
willing to offer spare rooms or self-contained accommodation.
“Our immediate focus is on solving the nursing shortage and reopening hospital beds,” said Mayor Allan.
“I’m pleased to say we already have over 40 expressions of interest from locals willing to help.”
His advice to other councils facing similar challenges is,
“Never underestimate the passion of a community to protect essential services.
“Bring them together, and local solutions to difficult problems can be found.”
For more information, contact Rose West at info@ housingmatters.org.au or on 0494 331 821.
Greens to launch campaign in Bellingen
By Andrew VIVIAN
THE Greens will launch their Cowper campaign in the main pavilion of the Bellingen Showgrounds, tonight (14 March) at 6pm.
Candidate Wendy Firefly will meet locals to discuss the issues she is passionate about.
Ms Firefly has been a social worker for 15 years, working with homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol, youth, and aged care organisations.
She says this has given her a deep understanding of what is wrong with our government and the evergrowing divide between the rich and the poor.
Her father designed the first transfer station where
rubbish was recycled and even worked to convert methane gas into electricity in the early 90s.
“Growing up in a progressive household, I knew from a young age that if nature is out of balance, there will be extreme weather events,” she said.
“I have been furious at the lack of commitment from the two major parties, both waiting until the final hour to implement Net Zero.
“The Greens have been fighting for climate action for 25 years.
“I feel like I have been protesting my whole life, whether it has been as a voice for marginalised communities, running blockades in the forest, or campaigns against industrial
farming.
"My first protest was with my family against the Gulf War, yet we are still spending trillions and killing millions."
Ms Firefly has been a long-time Greens supporter because she believes in grass roots democracy for the people from the people.
She said she was also brought up knowing about the injustice of colonisation and the importance of First Nations people.
The main policies The Greens will be taking to the election are affordable rent and housing, to get people into their first home and to address the homelessness crisis; mental and dental health coverage under Medicare; free access to doctors and professional medical support; wiping student debt and offering free university and TAFE places;
and raising the apprenticeship wage so everyone can pursue their dreams.
The Greens say they will legalise cannabis to reduce the pressure on the criminal justice and incarceration systems, create a taxable growth industry and provide environmental and health benefits.
The Greens stand for First Nations Justice through truth telling, treaty and protection of land and water.
“I have always felt the need to stand up for what’s right, and this is why I’m running for the Federal election.
“We need to remember this is a policy competition not a personality contest so please look at The Greens’ policies and Vote 1 Greens in the house and the Senate to send a strong message for change.”
Man charged with threatening emergency services worker
A MAN has been charged after allegedly threatening an emergency services worker at a sandbag station.
About 2.30pm on Friday 7 March, SES workers and
members of the public were filling sandbags outside a building on Coral Street, Corindi Beach, when a man drove to the site where he filled and took a number of
sandbags, before driving from the scene.
At 3.30pm, the man –aged 23 – returned to the location and took a number of sandbags from other
members of the public.
A SES worker spoke with the man, when the man – who was armed with a shovel –allegedly threatened the SES worker, before threatening other SES workers and community members nearby.
Officers from Coffs/
Clarence Police District were notified and attended the scene a short time later.
The man was arrested, and his vehicle was searched where police allegedly located and seized a knife and a machete.
The shovel was also seized.
He was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station,
where he was charged with “stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (personal)”, and “custody of knife in public place”.
He was refused bail and appeared at Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday, where a further charge of “intimidate frontline emergency worker was laid”.
q Wendy Firefly says she will fight for what is right. Photo: supplied, The Greens.
Financial assistance available
FOLLOWING a week of flooding, road closures, landslips and evacuations, financial assistance has been announced to help residents severely impacted by exTropical Cyclone Alfred.
Jointly funded by the State and Federal governments, the package will provide emergency financial assistance of $180 for individuals or up to $900 per family to cover essential
costs such as food, clothing, medicines and emergency accommodation.
To be eligible for the grant individuals must reside in a declared affected Local Government Area, which include Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey and the Nambucca Valley.
Further, individuals must have been subject to evacuation orders (Category
red emergency warning) or experienced power outages of more than 48 hours.
Applicants must demonstrate they have suffered hardship as result of the disaster, making them unable to meet immediate needs.
Applications opened on Wednesday 12 March and will be open until 8 April 2025.
For more details visit www.nsw.gov.au/ cyclonealfredrecovery.
In addition the Federal Government has activated the Disaster Recovery Allowance for communities directly affected by exTropical Cyclone Alfred.
This allowance offers up to 13 weeks of income support for eligible workers and sole traders, depending on their personal circumstances, who have suffered a loss of income as a direct result of the event.
For more details on the
Disaster Recovery Allowance go to servicesaustralia. gov.au/natural-disastersupport.
Nationals say farmers ‘left behind’
While welcoming the funding announcement, NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders has called on more support for the region’s farmers.
“The state’s agriculture sector supports thousands of jobs and quite literally feeds NSW.
“Our farmers are there for us each and every day, and now Labor needs to support them through this difficult time so they can get back on their feet,” Mr Saunders said.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the cyclone has left every rural
sector reeling.
“Farmers are facing uncertainty after they had to transport stock and find alternative places to house or sell them, on top of organising fodder and dealing with damage to infrastructure, lost crops and lost production costs.
“It has come at an enormous cost, and they need immediate support.”
Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh called on the government to provide “small farm recovery grants” to help primary producers repair fences, replant crops, dispose of flood debris, and invest in flood-resilient infrastructure moving forward.
q Newell Falls, Waterfall Way. Photo: TfNSW.
q Photo taken from Old Pacific Highway at Raleigh, looking towards the expressway. Photo: Beverley Miles.
q Lavenders Bridge, Bellingen. Photo: Michael Kemp.
q Creeks and rivers in Bellingen Shire were dangerously swollen and some roads and bridges inundated. Mayor Steve Allan.
q Creeks and rivers in Bellingen Shire were dangerously swollen and some roads and bridges inundated. Photos: Mayor Steve Allan.
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Heise calls for safeguards for bulkbilled pathology
INDEPENDENT candidate for Cowper Caz
Heise has called for the protection of free pathology services, with the future of some currently bulk-billed tests in doubt.
Ms Heise expressed concerns that potential changes to the current Medicare system could lead to increased out-of-pocket expenses for vital pathology tests.
“Pathology tests are a fundamental component of our healthcare system, allowing doctors to make informed decisions about patient care,” she said.
“Access to these tests without the burden of cost is essential, especially for families and individuals who may already be facing financial difficulties.
“We cannot allow the improvements in health access we’ve fought for to be rolled back.”
Ms Heise is backing “stronger legislative measures to safeguard free access to pathology tests under the Medicare system”, and the expansion of services in regional and rural areas - including mobile testing units and telehealth consultations.
“Many Australians, particularly those in regional areas, face barriers to healthcare, including travel time and costs,” she said.
“Free access to pathology testing is vital for early detection and management of health conditions, enabling people to receive timely interventions without the added stress of financial strain.”
According to Australian Pathology, the sector’s peak body, 99.6 percent of pathology services are currently bulk billed, but their future is far from guaranteed.
“Funding for pathology tests has been frozen since 1999,” the organisation said in a statement.
“In last year’s Federal Budget, the Government only indexed one third of pathology items and then slashed $356 million in funding.
“This includes tests most commonly accessed by women, such as Vitamin B12 and urine tests.
“It’s really hard to hear that the Government is defending and strengthening Medicare while they are freezing pathology funding for two-thirds of tests and cutting funding for other important tests.”
Last year, Australian Pathology launched a campaign seeking a $630 million investment by the Federal Government, over four years, to reinstate indexation for pathology services provided under the Medicare Benefits Schedule.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan indicated his support for the investment at the time.
“I have met with the team from Australian Pathology on a number of occasions and my position in relation to the support of Medicare covered pathology remains,” he told NOTA this week.
“You need pathology tests to detect diseases before they take further hold.
Body located during search for man missing in flooded creek
A BODY was tragically located during a wide-scale search for a man who was swept into floodwaters about 25km north-east of Dorrigo on Friday afternoon.
Emergency services were called to Wild Cattle Creek Bridge off Old Coramba Road, Megan, after a ute being driven across was swept into floodwaters.
The driver – 61-year-old Tommy Cook – was able to get out of the ute and climb into a tree about 30m from the riverbank; however, emergency personnel were unable to reach the man before he was swept away.
Local police, Fire and Rescue NSW personnel and SES members immediately commenced a search of the area.
About 4.30pm on Saturday the body of Mr Cook was located nearby.
15,000 copies TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE Red Hot Summer 1 February 2025
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
“Prevention is not just better than cure, it’s considerably cheaper in the long term.
“I continue to believe that Australian Pathology should not be singled out by being subjected to annual indexation changes.”
The Coalition has announced they will legislate $9 billion in Medicare support to ensure all Australians have timely and affordable access to a doctor.
“That should include sustaining pathology services and I will continue to have those discussions in the budgetary response after March 25,” Mr Conaghan said.
Candidates to talk childcare
A COWPER candidates event will focus on the impacts of childcare access issues on the Mid North Coast.
Ahead of the Federal Election, advocacy organisation The Parenthood has invited local candidates to hear from impacted parents at an event on 29 March in Nambucca Heads.
Families are encouraged to drop in with their children and share their struggles with childcare directly with their potential Federal representatives.
There will be a particular focus on the healthcare workforce and the challenges
facing essential workers when they can’t access care.
Federal candidates will then have an opportunity to discuss potential solutions.
Candidates Caz Heise (Independent), Greg Vigors (Labor), Chris Walsh (One Nation) and Peter Jackel (Family First) have confirmed their attendance, while Pat Conaghan (Nationals) will send a video message.
The Parenthood is calling on all parties to address the “national rural early childhood education and care shortage” as an election priority.
The Parenthood Campaign Director, Maddy Butler, said the lack of local childcare options is holding the entire region back.
“Local doctors, nurses and teachers are
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
Woolgoolga Vasahki Sikh Parade 12 April 2025
City of Coffs Harbour herby advises that pursuant to Section 115 of the Roads Act, 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to allow the following. Rolling road closure of:
• River Street, Nightingale Steet, Beach Street, High Street, Nelson Street, Scarborough Street, Gordon Street, Queen Street and Hastings Street, Woolgoolga, between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm.
unable to work because there’s not enough care for their kids,” said Ms Butler.
Childcare services are particularly scarce in Nambucca, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, and Crescent Head.
“Early childhood education and care is critical for setting children up for success and allowing parents to work,” Ms Butler said.
“Without it, children, families, essential workforces and entire communities suffer.”
RSVP on The Parenthood website.
Family-friendly food and activities will be provided.
The event will be held at the Nambucca Community and Arts Centre (21 Ridge Street, Nambucca Heads) on Saturday 29 March from 3pm-5pm.
City of Coffs Harbour herby advises that pursuant to Section 115 of the Roads Act, 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to allow the temporary road closure of: Ocean Parade between Fitzgerald St and Orlando St Coffs Harbour between 12.00pm and 11.30pm on 1 February 2025.
And temporary road closure of:
Telephone enquiries should be directed to the City on 6648 4000.
• Beach Street, Woolgoolga between 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm
Telephone enquiries should be directed to City of Coffs Harbour on 6648 4000
Dorrigo downpour: A farmer's experience
DORRIGO cattle farmer Sue Francis recorded 732mm of rain in six days during the ExTropical Cyclone Alfred rain event.
As the storm developed, Sue shared daily updates to her farm’s Facebook page, ‘Onward Murray Greys’.
On Saturday, having received around 270mm in 24 hours, Sue highlighted some key issues faced by the region’s primary producers in extreme weather events.
“The cattle are so incredibly resilient, but they
are far from comfortable,” she said.
“Unlike those on floodplains mine are in no danger of drowning (except by misadventure).
“Our high growth season of summer sees them in good condition.
“They are managed yearly to assure they put on ample body reserves (fat) for winter.
“Those reserves are however being called upon now.”
Sue said pasture nutrition
levels had plummeted in the conditions.
“You see them (cattle) out grazing more than usual, their bodies attempting to keep up with the higher energy demands to keep warm and to compensate for the lesser pasture values.”
From a personal perspective, Sue noted that “helplessness and despondency” were beginning to creep in after days of the rain’s onslaught.
“Thinking of the issues of delays in annual, seasonal farm management (weaning, grass planting, sale animal selection and preparation) wakes you at night,” she said.
Two in court on manslaughter charge after home birth
TWO women have appeared in court charged with manslaughter after a home birth at a property north-west of Coffs Harbour.
Emergency services had been called to a home at Karangi, on Sunday 11 September 2022, after a baby was unresponsive following a home birth.
NSW Ambulance paramedics attended and treated a newborn boy at the scene before he was airlifted to Coffs Base Hospital, where he later died.
Detectives attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District commenced inquiries and, on 11 February 2025, arrested a 41-yearold woman at Crescent Head, and a
51-year-old woman at Dorrigo.
They were taken to Coffs Harbour and Kempsey police stations where they were each charged with manslaughter.
They were granted bail before appearing in Coffs Harbour Local Court on Wednesday, where the matter was adjourned to the same court on Tuesday 13 May 2025.
Police will allege in court the younger woman was an unregistered midwife at the time of the birth, while the older woman held no medical qualifications and had been practising unregistered homebirth midwifery.
“Problems and methods to tackle the cleanup, paddock rejuvenation, cattle health and condition loss, fence repairs, and tree cleanup keep you from sleep in the first place.”
By Monday, as conditions appeared to be somewhat easing, Sue encouraged readers to spare a thought for the region’s dairy farmers and their cows.
She said dairy producers had been “trudging through some pretty ordinary conditions, without fail, every day”.
“Cows still need to be milked, calves fed, pastures managed, electricity created when necessary.
“Let's face it - work commitments that we beef farmers do not have to match.
“Imagine continuing those duties, without fail, to then have to open the pipe on the milk vat and let it run down the drain.”
As often happens in extreme weather, access to the Waterfall Way was impacted by landslips and tree falls during the rain event.
A fact that further exacerbated difficulties for dairy producers, Sue said.
“They can take days to clear away awaiting geo-
engineering checks and all that other techy, red tape safety stuff.
“Once at the bottom of the hill, the road along the Bellingen River flats becomes impassable with flood water.
“Milk tankers simply cannot get through when the longer, more hazardous alternative route is also not an option.
“Milk cannot be stored on farm for longer than two days.
“Tens of thousands of litres of hard earned labour literally went down the drain across the plateau yesterday.”
On Tuesday, Sue told NOTA that it had stopped raining, and that while the sun was yet to appear, “the sting in Alfie’s tail was gone”.
q The rain gauge filled quickly and repeatedly on Sue’s farm. Photo: Onward Murray Greys.
q Soaked cattle huddle together.
Photo: Onward Murray Greys.
Pink Silks supports CanDo Cancer Trust
By Andrea FERRARI
THE local CanDo Cancer Trust is the latest recipient of the Pink Silks Trust’s generosity, receiving a donation of $8000 from its Pink Silks Ladies Race Day.
In keeping with Tanya Johnson’s founding principle of supporting the local community, the funds will go directly towards assisting patients and families at the North Coast Cancer Institute.
CanDo Cancer Trust Chairperson Julie Jardine, expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support of the Pink Silks Trust, which is now in its eighth year.
"We continue to assist over 120 new patients per year, with our annual support now exceeding $120,000,” she said.
“Donations like this from The Pink Silks Trust are essential in allowing us to provide practical assistance to those in need.
“Specifically, these funds contribute to the Brenda Johnson Memorial Fund for women attending the North Coast Cancer Institute.
"We are a volunteer-run organisation, meaning every dollar donated goes directly to supporting local cancer patients.”
Ms Johnson OAM reaffirmed her organisation’s commitment to
Man rescued from flood waters
A MAN was rescued after attempting to drive through flood waters at Missabotti on Saturday.
Emergency services were called to Missabotti Road, Missabotti – about 30km northwest of Nambucca Heads – at around 8pm, following reports a man had been washed away by flood waters.
On arrival, officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District were told a 71-year-old man had attempted to cross flood waters in a Toyota Landcruiser; however, the vehicle failed to cross and was swept downstream.
The man was located
making a tangible difference in the lives of women affected by cancer.
"The Pink Silks Trust is proud to support the CanDo Cancer Trust, knowing that our donation will directly benefit patients in our local community.
“Every year, we strive to raise much-needed funds through events like the Pink Silks Ladies Race Day, and it is rewarding to see the impact these contributions make.
“We commend the CanDo Cancer Trust for their dedication and incredible work in supporting
in the water nearby, holding onto the rear of the vehicle which was pinned near some large trees.
Local police together with SES personnel, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance officers attended and commenced an operation to retrieve the man from the water.
A lifejacket was able to be successfully floated to the man prior to the arrival of the SES Swift Water Rescue Team, who completed the rescue with an inflatable raft.
The man was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics and did not require any medical treatment.
those facing cancer," she said. The CanDo Cancer Trust relies solely on donations and fundraising events to continue its work in the community, in this case providing cancer patients on the North Coast with financial support during their treatment.
For more information about the CanDo Cancer Trust or to donate, visit.candocancertrust.com.au, and for more information about the Pink Silks Trust visit pinksilks.com. au
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q Pink Silk Trust’s Craig Leece, Richard Hinton and co-founder Tanya Johnson OAM with CanDo Trust’s Chris Hines and Lydia Crossingham.
Free jazz for season launch
By Andrea FERRARI
A FREE jazz concert at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden on Sunday 25 March, will kick off the Coffs Harbour City Orchestra’s 2025 concert season.
Orchestra members are happy to be back
making music together at their weekly rehearsals, conductor Tim Egan told News Of The Area.
“We enjoyed having our young adults with us for a while over the holidays until they all left to return to university.
“We have now welcomed a new trombonist, cellist and violinist and are on the look-out for some more violinists to round out the strings’ sound."
The concert program includes music from the jazz greats like Satchmo, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin, and contemporary pieces from Take 5 and more.
The orchestra will also host the William Street Band as guest artists.
This is a lively street music five-piece group, with four horn players and a drummer - all Coffs Coast
locals - who play wellknown New Orleans Blues and Jazz selections.
The performance space at the Botanic Gardens is on the lawn a short walk from the entrance and
provides for the projection of sound and music to a large audience.
“People can enjoy a relaxing afternoon of jazz music in a beautiful garden setting; bring along a picnic rug, chairs, food and drinks and take in the atmosphere."
The concert commences at 2pm. Donations are welcomed.
q Coffs City Orchestra at the Performance Space in the Botanic Gardens, Coffs Harbour.
q The William Street Band are guest artists at the Coffs City Orchestra concert.
Exchange student returns after 25 years
By Andrea FERRARI
ANDREAS Arnvig has returned to Australia with his Danish family to introduce them to friends made a quarter of a century ago, including Woolgoolga resident Steven Mottlee.
Andreas was an exchange student in 1999 with the INTO Education program.
Steven was the program’s Australian Coordinator.
To celebrate Andreas’ return visit with his wife Doris and daughters Vilde, 9, and Clara, 6, Steven hosted a lunch at C.ex Woolgoolga Bowling Club.
“A quarter of a century goes by, but the international friends you make can last a lifetime,” he said.
The young Dane was very interested in media and public relations, so Steven arranged for him to broadcast on the Canberra Local MultiCultural Radio Station in his own weekly one-hour radio program called Australian International Student Hour.
“He was a star broadcaster on the station and through this experience was able to interview various politicians in Canberra, such as Senator Gary Humphries, ACT Chief Minister Kate Carnell, and
Parliamentary President Senator Margaret Reid.”
Andreas wanted to share his Australian experience with his Danish friends Rasmus and Ole, so he returned with them on a working holiday visa in 2004/2005.
As a father, he now wants to share the most important country in his life, outside of Denmark, with his wife and daughters.
He has returned to visit his former host Lee, and her children Jasmine and Jarrod.
“I also wanted my family to meet in person my former Australian Host Family and
Times Gone By: Timber, trade and transformation
By Karen FILEWOOD
FORESTRY was a core industry in the Coffs Harbour area and by 1938 was shipping about 13,000,000 feet of timber annually.
Masses of piles, poles, sleepers, logs and sawn timber were sent interstate and overseas, the timber sourced from around the Hastings, Macleay, Manning and Nambucca Rivers. In March 1938 Coffs Harbour and its surrounds formed a new forestry district, requiring administrative buildings. To be close to the timber depot and jetty, a site was chosen on the corner of Hood and High Street (now Harbour Drive), opposite the Pier
Hotel.
The inscribed foundation block was of polished turpentine wood from Orara to highlight the area’s specialisation in turpentine and was laid on 19 March 1938.
The officiating Minister for Mines and Forests, Roy S Vincent, stated Coffs Harbour should be proud
they had the largest timber port in Australia.
Designed to reflect the area’s high value forests, their regeneration and the importance of the industry in the region, locals considered the building was ‘something out of the box’.
Offices for the Fruit Inspector and Dairy Branch were in the basement, Forestry used the ground floor, while the top floor was a meeting room with a
balcony.
The Forestry Commission’s Architect and Research Officer, Mr Christian P Sorenson ensured native local timbers with innovative new treatments were featured.
The entrance and hall were themed off-white, black and gold using fumed mahogany and crow’s ash.
The coloured floors and wall lining of brush box and red almond plywood were packed with seaweed for temperature regulation and soundproofing.
Mr C Hoyle of Hamilton
the INTO Education student exchange coordinator Steven Mottlee, who gave me so much opportunity when I was here as an exchange student and, again, when I came back with my friends on a working holiday visa.”
At the special lunch in Woolgoolga, Steven Mottlee presented the family with a limited edition Royal Doulton figurine of Princess Mary, now Queen Mary of Denmark.
“This particular figurine is also one of a kind.
“During his tour of Australia, I asked Michael Doulton, great grandson of the original Royal Doulton family, to autograph it.”
undertook its construction which began in November 1939 and it was officially opened on 8 May 1941.
Sold to Gowing Brothers in 2016, Council approved its demolition on 28 February 2019, provided it was recorded and a reuse strategy applied to a selection of timber, including the staircase, despite being listed in the 2015 heritage study.
Shortly after the building was demolished, traces of the basement were left as a token to a special building.
q Steven Mottlee (centre) presents Andreas and his family with a Royal Doulton Princess Mary figurine.
q Woolgoolga residents Carmel Woldseth, Jennie Heine and Toni Mottlee, Vilde and Clara with their father Andreas Arnvig, Steven Mottlee and Andreas’ wife Doris David.
q Steven Mottlee with Andreas’ family in Sydney.
Stepping up for Bello Show
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Bellinger River Agricultural Society is looking to ensure its continued success by inviting enthusiastic individuals to step into key leadership roles.
The historic institution’s key event is the Bellingen Show, which began in 1881.
Its continued success is testament to generations of community spirit, showcasing local agriculture and arts through an event created by the community, for the community.
The show stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when community members come together, pooling their talents and energy for the benefit of all, the society’s president Susan Lumsdaine told News Of The Area.
The society is now offering community members a chance to shadow executive, trade, and operations roles, learning from experienced volunteers who contribute to making the show a vibrant celebration.
"We have an incredible team of dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts into making the Bellingen Show better each year," Ms Lumsdaine said.
"To keep this wonderful tradition thriving for future generations, we're looking for people who want to be part of something special and make a real difference in our community."
Newcomers will learn the ropes while working alongside current position holders, ensuring a smooth transition of knowledge and experience that has been built up over many years.
From organising horse events and the famous pavilion displays to managing trade relationships and coordinating the operation and setting up of the grounds, these roles offer diverse opportunities to contribute to an event that has been the highlight of Bellingen's calendar for over 140 years.
“As we look to the future, we need new voices and fresh perspectives to help write the next chapter of this enduring story.”
The Show has proven its resilience and ability to evolve with the times, recently embracing sustainability initiatives and introducing new events while maintaining traditional elements.
“This balance of heritage and innovation makes it an exciting time to get involved
community members are encouraged to reach out to the Bellinger River Agricultural Society by emailing secretary@ bellingenshow.com.au.
Ten years on from kidney transplant
By Andrea FERRARI
TEN years ago, on 24 March, Wendy Fisher received a kidney transplant from a Living Donor.
Having thrived in great health since then, Wendy will be holding a small celebration with family and friends at Easter to mark the milestone.
After a childhood illness left her with everdecreasing kidney function, Wendy spent decades knowing she would need a kidney transplant at some stage.
“Increasing nausea and tiredness, and a kidney function of nine percent. indicated that the time was right,” she told News Of The Area.
Normally, a family member would be the ideal Living Donor, meaning a transplant could be carried out at the optimum time for the recipient before dialysis was needed.
“In my case, none of my family members were suitable, so a wonderful couple of friends I had made at the Grafton Dragon Boat Club offered to be tested.
“I found it hard to take in that people could be so incredibly generous.”
The friends, husband and wife Chris and Terry, both endured rigorous health checks, with Terry turning out to be the better match.
“Terry’s kidney worked amazingly well from the start, so my family nicknamed him Turbo Terry."
Now, whenever Wendy has a particularly happy occasion or day, she sends a photo to Terry and his family, “just so that they never forget what he has given me and my loved ones”.
At the age of 64, Wendy plays an active part in Coffs U3A, is a volunteer, enjoys many hobbies, has an active social life, and has just started to play Pickleball.
q Coffs Harbour’s Wendy Fisher is celebrating 10 years since a Living Donor kidney transplant in 2015.
“I am able to travel to see my elder son and family in New Zealand, younger son and his wife in California, and my elderly mum and siblings in the UK.
“Without my kidney transplant it would have been nearly impossible to do any of these things.
“Terry has truly given me my life back.”
For Terry it was “an easy decision for me and my wife Chris to offer to be living kidney donors".
“Having known Wendy as a good friend for over 10
years, we knew she would make the most of her new lease on life and give joy to many others as well.
“Without the kidney, her life would be tied to a dialysis machine.
“With the kidney, Wendy has been able to climb Uluru, travel overseas to attend her sons' weddings, babysit her grandchildren and play a very active role in the Coffs volunteer community,” Terry told NOTA.
“I saw my father lead a full and active life for
40 years after a kidney removal, and likewise for me, having one kidney has not affected my busy lifestyle at all, and I continue to enjoy life to the fullest.”
There are currently over 1000 kidney transplants performed each year in Australia, with over 15,000 Australians reliant on regular dialysis treatment in order to stay alive.
Eighty percent of transplants are performed using kidneys from deceased donors.
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For sail: timber treasure awaits adventure
By Mike HELY
A DREAM yacht that began as a highend project, became a full-blown passion, and then drifted along the borders of obsession, is now for sale - 44 years after its original owner set course.
In 1981, Sawtell master builder and sailing enthusiast Roger Singleton began constructing the sixberth “Frances Stewart”, a customdesigned, 42-foot Swanson, while continuing to work full-time.
Named after his wife, who passed away in 2020, the “Frances Stewart” is a one-of-a-kind cruising yacht crafted from the finest rare and exotic timbers including Huon pine, Californian redwood, American white oak, Burmese teak, Brazilian mahogany and New Guinea rosewood.
Sadly, Roger died in November 2023 from mesothelioma, aged 79, without ever seeing his boat in the water.
Like many of his contemporaries, he contracted the disease due to regular contact with asbestos as a young tradesman in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Following his death, his children Julie Sillince and Mal Singleton took on the task of bringing the yacht to near-completion.
Now, propped up in a purposebuilt shed in Sawtell, the “Frances Stewart” is 90 percent complete and ready for someone to apply the finishing touches.
Descending into the interior, the sweet smell of timber permeates this ocean-going time capsule as it patiently awaits its first voyage.
“She’s certainly one of a kind, they don’t build them like this anymore,”
Mal said.
“She was custom designed by Ron Swanson (a noted Australian yacht designer and ship builder), with brother Jim Swanson consulting during the build.
“We would like to find a buyer that loves wooden boats and loves and recognises the craftsmanship that has gone into this.”
Swansons are renowned as one of the best cruising boats and are quite sought after.
The “Frances Stewart” is the only yacht in its class that is made of timber and is colloquially known as “the last Swanson”, as her designers died many years ago.
When it comes to the actual cost of the boat, which is listed for sale at $379,000, Julie and Mal agree it would be well north of $1.5 million.
To build it now? They estimate between $2.3 and $2.7 million.
“We’re okay to let it go, it was Dad’s dream and we don’t have the skills or expertise to finish and keep it,” Julie said.
“Dad had a dream of sailing it around the world, but in reality, the dream was building it and he totally immersed himself in the project.
“He was a perfectionist.
“Whoever buys it, we’ve got everything they need to finish it,
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including all the sails and rigging.”
The wooden hull was built locally by master shipwright Laurie Trim and over the years a number of Coffs Coast tradesmen assisted with construction.
They included Ian Morris (ship carpenter), Mark Barry (carpenter/ ship carpenter), Mal Singleton (carpenter and builder), Graham Steele (master shipwright), Ben Thwaites (marine engineer), Donald Clyde (marine electrician) and Trevor Neilson (electrician).
In the boat’s keel sits five-andthree-quarter tonnes of lead ballast, all cast on-site in Sawtell.
For about 15 years on and off, Coffs Harbour master shipwright Laurence Giles also worked on the “Frances Stewart” and offered guidance and advice.
He said the cost of timber and labour now would preclude most people from ever starting such a project.
“Roger was definitely obsessed about building this boat,” Laurence said.
“You don’t see this sort of work anymore unless it’s on something really high-end.”
“Wooden boats are quite different to a fibreglass or aluminium or steel boat. They feel well-built. They’re very solid but are also nice and quiet because the timber has beautiful sound insulation properties. It also has a more gentle feeling on the water.”
Julie and Mal said their father
would be happy for the boat to go to someone who appreciates it and understands the labour of love that went into it.
“Towards the end we’d ask Dad
if he was disappointed he didn’t get to see it in the water,” Julie said.
“He’d say, ‘Not really, I’ve already sailed it a million times in my dreams’.”
q A passion project. Roger Singleton with grandchildren Fletcher and Charlotte Singleton.
q Julie Sillince on the deck of the ‘Frances Stewart’, the last of the Swanson class of yachts, which has been under construction for 44 years.
q Brother and sister Julie Sillince and Malcolm Singleton below deck on their late father Roger’s yacht, the ‘Frances Stewart’.
Holdens visiting ‘oldies’
By Andrea FERRARI
FOUR vintage cars from the National Holden Motor Museum (NHMM) Coffs Harbour took a drive down memory lane last week to visit the residents of Legacy on Victoria Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF).
The mini “pop-up” exhibition on Tuesday 4 March, was part of the museum’s community outreach program.
The classic Holdens, driven to the facility’s forecourt by their owners, were Victor Rullis’ 1954 FJ Holden, Dennis Johnstone’s 1961 EK Holden Special, Peter Eckford’s 1964 EH Holden Ute, and Geoff King’s 1976 HX Holden Ute.
NHMM volunteer and event organiser Steve Little, said the home had reached out to the museum to provide the display as a nostalgic treat for its residents.
“When Legacy contacted us, we jumped at the chance to provide some enjoyment to those who were physically
and the museum at the Bunker,” Mr Little said.
“The residents were delighted to see the old vehicles and many reminisced about their experience with cars they owned or travelled in, in their younger days.
“Recognition needs to be given to the car’s owners for taking the time to bring them out on what was a wet and windy day.”
The National Cartoon Gallery also supplied a dozen copies of original cartoons from the recent Annual Rotary Cartoon Awards featuring the theme Football, Meat Pies, Kangaroos and Holden Cars which was originally an advertising campaign made by Holden
Staff at Legacy on Victoria RACF, were delighted to welcome their visitors.
“Our Lifestyle Coordinator Alex was inspired to organise this event for a number of reasons,” Director of Nursing, Coffs Legacy Amanda Christie told News Of The Area.
“Mainly it was because many of our residents are now no longer able to leave our facility due to agerelated issues, so being able to bring the community to them was a big motivator.
“[We saw] the delight on many faces, especially the gents who would have
memories of owning and even working on cars of
“As for the ladies, many of them would have fond memories of long drives, romance and sing-a-longs, so this really met the needs of our residents.”
Some of the residents requested to pop the hood to take a look.
The success of the event has motivated the Legacy Care team to do more of this kind of activity, “especially involving our community, and providing holistic care to our residents and their families”.
q The Mini Holden Car Show at Legacy on Victoria.
this vintage.
q Legacy residents enjoying the show, which also featured a Holden EK Special and 1954 Holden FJ.
q A Legacy resident takes in the vintage cars.
q Legacy staff and residents with Victor Rullis and his 1954 Holden FJ.
Open Home Twilight Tour
March in March in Bellingen
By Andrew VIVIAN
THE Bob Brown Foundation will stage a “March in March” as a nationwide show of support for ending the destruction of native forests.
Locals will gather at Bellingen Park at 11am on Sunday 23 March.
With Australia heading into a federal election, former Greens leader and lifelong environmental advocate Bob Brown, has issued a call to action.
“This federal election will decide the fate of Australia’s native forests set for logging, and the fate of billions of creatures dependent on forest habitat,” Dr Brown said.
“That includes Masked Owls, Greater Gliders, Swift Parrots, koalas, and a myriad
of insect species yet unknown to science.”
The Bellingen event begins with a program of music and speeches, leading into the march at 12pm.
A highlight will be the unique sounds of “Gunganbu”, a band led by Micklo Jarrett, a proud Gumbaynggirr man and language teacher, and Luke Rhodes, a songwriter and composer.
Gunganbu’s soulful melodies, sung in Gumbaynggirr language, pay tribute to the land and its deep cultural heritage.
The lineup of speakers sharing their knowledge and passion for forest conservation will include Jimmy Halfcut, an ecosystem regenerator and rainforest activist; Dr Phil Zylstra,
fire scientist and expert in forest fire behaviour; Ashley Love, conservationist and founding member of the Great Koala National Park proposal; Wendy Firefly, Greens candidate for Cowper and long-time environmental advocate; and Sue Higginson, politician, lawyer and longtime advocate of native forests.
Gumbaynggirr Elders and environmental defenders Alison Buchanan and Micklo Jarrett, will perform traditional ceremonies and speak about the urgent need to protect their Country.
Foundation spokesperson Doro Baback, said that with forests under increasing threat, the March in March Nationwide is a chance for the community to come together, stand in solidarity and demand real action.
Jacinta Price's Kempsey visit called off after protest by local Elders
By Douglas CONNOR
A “POLLIES in the Pub” event in Kempsey featuring controversial Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price was cancelled just as it was about to begin on Wednesday, 12 March, following a protest by members of the Dunghutti community.
National Party Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan had organised Senator Price’s visit to the West Kempsey Hotel.
Promotion of the event was posted to social media and on the venue’s website.
But when Dunghutti and Gumbaynggirr woman Lynne Holten arrived, she was told she was not allowed in.
“We saw Pat Conaghan [and] we said we had something to say about how disrespectful it is to bring Jacinta Price on to our Country without contacting the local [Indigenous] community,” Ms Holten told News Of The Area.
“We were then told it’s a private meeting.
“It was never advertised as a private meeting, it was advertised as a public meeting.”
Ms Holten said Senator Price “denigrates Aboriginal people”, citing statements the
politician has made publicly about the Stolen Generation and domestic violence in Indigenous communities.
Dunghutti and Biripi woman Cheryl Davis, a lifelong resident of Kempsey, said many of Senator Price’s public statements do not align with the views of the local Indigenous community.
“Hearing a lot of Jacinta Price’s policies and what she believes, this woman does not speak for me and she does not speak for my family.
“To come here to see her and listen to her, and to be told we aren’t allowed in, is downright disrespectful.”
Joanne Smith, the former Vice Chairperson of the Dunghutti Elders Council, told NOTA she believed Senator Price had “sold out” Indigenous Australians over the Voice to Parliament and was also angry at the lack of consultation.
“Jacinta Price showed disrespect by not informing our communities, not seeking permission from the Dunghutti Elders Council or any Elder for that matter to have this meeting on our land.”
Senator Price has been on a tour of the NSW coast this
week, visiting National Party and Liberal Party supporters and election candidates in Raymond Terrace, Taree and Port Macquarie.
She was set to appear in the pub alongside Mr Conaghan to “engage with the community, hear their concerns, and share insights on current issues”, according to event promotion.
Ahead of the event’s 2pm advertised start, a 30-strong crowd had gathered on the hotel’s verandah in protest, leading organisers to cancel the Senator’s appearance.
Police arrived promptly to mediate the situation and the crowd soon dispersed.
Jacinta Price is a Country Liberal Party senator for the Northern Territory and the Shadow Minister for Indigenous Affairs.
She sits with the National Party in the Federal Parliament.
Born in Alice Springs, she has both Indigenous and AngloSaxon heritage, and was a leading figure in the successful “No” campaign for the Voice to Parliament referendum.
In a statement in response to the event’s cancellation,
Senator Nampijinpa Price told NOTA that the hotel gathering
was a “private event for National Party members”.
“A group of people who were not members of the National Party also chose to attend the location of the planned event,” she said.
“While in attendance at the location, some of those non-members became verbally abusive, aggressive and implied possible use of violence… as well directing derogatory and aggressive comments at members of the National Party.
“This kind of behaviour is abhorrent and has no place in a democratic nation like Australia.
“I have, in recent times, received threats of violence, death and sexual abuse, and my family have also been subject to threatening behaviour.
“Whether those threatening individuals are from this area is unknown, but that is the background against which the behaviour expressed today must be considered, and on that basis, a decision was made to cancel the event.”
Senator Price said there was no need to consult the local Indigenous community ahead of the meeting.
“Any assertion that local Elders should be notified and permission sought before a Senator or Member of the Australian Parliament holds a private event in their area is completely baseless,” she said.
The Senator said she will “continue to speak out about issues that demand urgent attention such as the rampant domestic and
family violence and sexual abuse that occurs within Indigenous communities”.
Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said it was disappointing that a member of Parliament “can’t visit and speak with members and supporters of a party that have invited her to come”.
“I have been asked by local National Party members on numerous occasions over the past three years to organise a visit from Jacinta,” he said.
“We are all free to have thoughts and opinions, and we are all free to disagree, but intimidation in an effort to silence an elected Senator at a small local meet-and-greet event is not an acceptable method of communication.”
q Last year’s march. Photo: Guy Mayraz. q The National Party invitation to the event was published to the hotel’s website.
q Dunghutti women Leetona Dungay, Joanne Smith, Cheryl Davis and Lynne Holten were among those protesting the appearance of Senator Nampijinpa Price. Photo: Douglas Connor.
Young musicians off to Europe
By Andrea FERRARI
SEVEN of the best young string players in Coffs Harbour will join an international tour to Europe in July to perform and compete in the Summa Cum Laude Festival in Austria.
The prestigious tour is organised by the NSW Regional Youth Orchestra (RYO).
The talented teenagers have all studied at the Coffs Conservatorium since they were young - some since they were three-years-old.
They are thrilled to get the chance to represent Coffs in European cities such as Salzburg, Vienna and Berlin.
The RYO program is open to young musicians from regional conservatoriums across NSW who audition to come together a few times a year as an orchestra to rigorously rehearse and
then perform an advanced repertoire.
The program also includes tutoring from world class musicians, such as those from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian World Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra.
Strings player Koby Clarke, 17, told News Of The Area that the tour is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity.
Beyond the festival, there will be performances in historic venues, workshops with leading musicians, and visits to institutions such as the University of Music in Vienna.
“We are all looking forward to creating unforgettable memories with our orchestra and connecting with the birthplace of classical music,” Koby said.
Looking ahead, many of the young musicians are
planning to go to university to study music, while some are still deciding on the road ahead.
“For those of us who are aiming for a career in performance, this overseas opportunity is absolutely huge as it will allow us to see the classical music culture at its finest.
“This tour will connect us with the foundations of the music we have grown up loving, as it is where great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Mahler lived, studied and taught.”
The young musicians are performing three concerts to raise funds for the tour.
Playing under the name of Coffs Coast Academy, they can be heard at Nambucca Valley Arts Centre on Sunday 16 March, from 3pm-4pm, Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium on Saturday 29 March, from 3pm-4pm and at Coramba Hall on Sunday 30 March, also from 3pm-4pm.
BookFest set for a record year
By Andrea FERRARI
BOOKFEST is back and the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour says it is shaping up to be a
record year.
The popular week-long fundraiser starts tomorrow, Saturday 15 March, and will run daily until 22 March at
the Norm Jordan Pavilion at Coffs Harbour Showground.
With over 62 pallets of second-hand books, it is the biggest pre-loved book sale
on the Coffs Coast.
There will be fiction and non-fiction books covering topics such as children’s stories, cookbooks, history, hobbies, politics, adventures and more.
There will also be rare and antique books plus CDs and DVDs.
In preparation, the Rotarians have been organising the books into categories to make it easier for visitors.
“BookFest also serves a greater purpose, it is a key fundraising event for the club,” said Coordinator Tony
James.
“Proceeds from BookFest will directly benefit local community initiatives and global Rotary projects.”
Over the last 12 months, Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour has supported Coffs’ surf lifesavers with rescue tubes; Coffs Wildlife Sanctuary’s sea turtle rescue project; helping to fund Coffs Harbour Hospital’s radiation trials and the purchase of trans-perineal biopsy (prostate cancer) equipment; the Disabled Surfing Association; the Parkinson’s support
group; the Kulai preschool; exchange students both inbound and outbound; and other educational projects.
“By attending, visitors will be continuing to assist our Rotary Club in supporting a broad range of charitable causes that make a meaningful impact both here in the Coffs Coast, and beyond.”
For more information and updates about the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour’s BookFest visit its social media pages or contact Tony James on 0484 028 269.
q Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour’s Michelle Swindon, French exchange student Émilie Madelaine, and volunteers Brett and Sharon sorting and packing books for BookFest.
q Coffs Rotary Club member Ray Silins and volunteer Liesel Brown.
q Group of Coffs Harbour Rotary members sorting books ahead of BookFest.
q Coffs Rotarian Rosemary Hepworth.
q Coffs Harbour musicians Henrietta, Koby, Mia, Mercedes, and Dara will tour Europe in July.
Rotary’s big clean up
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS City Rotary members donned their high-viz vests on Clean Up Australia Day, Sunday 2 March, to conduct their annual rubbish cleanup.
Taking an early morning walk along Hogbin Drive near the Rugby Club at Toormina, the Rotary Clean Up crew covered a one kilometre stretch of road and found a significant amount of rubbish in the small area of bushland. They said items found included empty wine bottles, old plastic bags, food wrappers, and even a large, discarded component of a lounge chair, strewn
and hidden in the long grassy ditches beside the main road.
It did not take long for the team of 10 Rotarians to fill several bags with rubbish and gather up items such as a car tyre, an empty cardboard box and plastic container box.
In just under an hour along the roadsides, it was eye-opening to see the amount of waste accumulated in a small radius, President Bob Carle told News Of The Area.
“We do this every year, and it is a great initiative to help keep our community clean and safe.
“We had a lot of cars honk us in support, and
morning exercisers ask us what we were up to.”
Before they set out, the team talked about safety as an important consideration
Surfing ‘Old Boys n’ Gals’ reunion
By Kim SATCHELL
THE Coffs Harbour and District Surf Riders “Old Boys n’ Gals Reunion Celebration 1965-1985” is scheduled for the evening of 5 April at the Greenhouse Tavern.
The event builds on the recent interest and success generated by the “Swell Chasers - Surf Stories from the Mid North Coast” exhibition at Yarrila Arts and Museum.
"It's now timely to follow-up and celebrate our
Coffs area surfing family - its history, roots and legendary personalities from the past,” organiser Geoff McSkimming told News Of The Area.
The “Father of Surfing” and surf culture was Hawaiian Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku.
A triple gold-medallist, “The Duke” introduced Australia to the sport at Freshwater Beach on 24 December, 1914, on a board he fashioned out of solid sugar pine.
He hoped to see surfing at
the Olympics one-day, which happened more than 100 years later when it debuted at the delayed Tokyo Games of 2021.
In the course of moving from fringe oddity to mainstream acceptance, boardriders in the Coffs District have nurtured and developed surfing talent to an elite level.
Anyone interested is welcome to join their reunion.
There will be archival footage and historical images
when picking up rubbish and discarded items.
In addition to their fluoro vests, they used long rubbish claws, thick
material gloves and Clean Up Australia Day Bags for recyclable and nonrecyclable items.
The waste collected was
to the Englands Road garbage collection facility to dispose of responsibly, Mr Carle said.
honouring key personalities and events, and stories and personal anecdotes.
The evening commences at 5pm with an optional gold
Grant at lesgrant57@ gmail.com or on 0407
taken
q Coffs City Rotary’s Clean Up Australia Day crew.
q The pile of rubbish collected by Coffs City Rotary members.
q Peter, Noel, Reggie, Barry and Rodney at the Longboard Competition 1972 in Coffs Harbour.
q Photos from the area’s surfing past.
Inclusion festival expands in 2025
THE All One Under The Sun festival will return over two action-packed days at Brelsford Park in October.
“This is outstanding news for an event which can trace its roots back to Harmony Day,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams.
“It has evolved and is a dynamic celebration which showcases music, food, the arts and cultural history and sees diversity as a strength.
“Importantly, the festival pulls apart stereotypes and builds mutual respect
as well as highlighting the region as a welcoming place.”
All One Under the Sun is described as a “remedy to racism campaign” which uses the arts to promote inclusion, belonging, connection, education and empowerment.
Festival highlights are set to include a parade, street art, a skate workshop, cooking demonstrations, a silent disco, fireworks and fashion parades.
A six-a-side football (soccer) tournament is also planned, featuring sides representing Coffs Harbour’s multicultural
communities.
Organisers hope to attract at least one high profile headline performer.
Mayor Williams said Council is expecting a crowd of up to 10,000.
The festival will run from 24-25 October.
The event is funded by a $30,000 grant from the City of Coffs Harbour and $146,050 from the State Government’s Stronger Together Local Council Major Festival Grant program.
q One of Coffs Harbour’s biggest festivals is expanding in 2025.
By Manny WOOD
He said, she said - the court decides HYPOTHETICAL
PETER and Sally are engaged to be married. Sally moves into Peter’s home and contributes towards renovations to the property.
They decide to purchase an investment property and the property is registered in joint names.
There is no written agreement between them in relation to the purchase.
Unfortunately Peter and Sally never marry, and 18 months after their relationship commenced, Peter and Sally separate and their relationship comes to an end.
A dispute arises in relation to the investment property and Peter files a claim in the Supreme Court of NSW. He seeks an order to the effect that he is entitled to the whole property on the basis that he paid the full purchase price.
Sally says that Peter gifted her interest in the property to her in recognition of their relationship and her contributions towards renovations to Peter’s home.
She says the inclusion of her name on title of the investment property was not conditional upon her marriage to Peter.
The Court accepts evidence that Peter paid the whole of the investment property’s purchase price and that a mortgage was not obtained.
The Court observes that the purchase of property as “joint tenants” is consistent with a relationship in the “nature of a marriage”.
The Court further notes that because Peter and Sally’s relationship did not last two years or more, their property interests cannot be adjusted under the Property (Relationships) Act and must be determined by the “general law” with reference to the failure of a “joint endeavour”.
In determining the legal entitlements of the parties, the Court examines their financial and nonfinancial contributions and without engaging in a “precise arithmetical calculation” rules that it would be unconscionable for Peter to deny Sally’s contributions towards the property and unconscionable for Sally not to recognise Peter’s payment of the whole purchase price.
Ultimately, the Court considers a “just outcome” is for the property to be sold and the proceeds divided two-thirds for Peter and one-third for Sally.
Email Manny Wood, Principal Solicitor and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net.au or call him on (02) 66 487 487.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
Selfless act from arborist
worked hard to clear the debris.
Not only would he not accept any payment, but also returned later the same morning to assist further.
DEAR Jasminda,
I HAVE a neighbour who parades around his backyard in the nuddy. He opens his side gate, so I can see him from my kitchen window.
He thinks it’s funny when I tell him I can watch porn on television if I was that way inclined.
What do you suggest I do?
Signed,
Bertha.
Dear Bertha,
WHAT a coincidence.
The day before I received your email, I had a conundrum sent to me from a hard-of-hearing naturist.
HUGE thank you to a very community minded guy, Ben from ‘Limb-it-Less Tree Services.
As a result of destructive winds from Cyclone Alfred, we had a very large tree branch come down.
It blocked our entryway and also prevented access to our car.
Effectively, we were stranded.
I’m currently not very mobile, having recently undergone major ankle surgery.
Both my wife and I are senior citizens.
Unexpectedly, we received a generous offer from Ben, an experienced arborist living nearby us in Korora Valley. Ben
We are wildlife carers with WIRES and our enclosure was badly damaged by the storms.
Ben’s actions helped us to continue doing what we do for the wallaby joeys in care.
In the current, high pressure, seemingly selfish times we are living in, it’s so refreshing to meet someone like Ben.
Restores your faith that the goodness in humanity can still be found.
Thank you Ben.
Where's the con?
DEAR News Of The Area,
UNLIKE Noel Atkins in his letter (NOTA 7 March) I don’t see any ‘con’ in the push to save our iconic koala. Nationwide, our destruction of threatened species habitat has been pretty ordinary, and if that means that loud and public calls for change have been required in order to make our lawmakers sit up and implement effective protection strategies then so be it.
Submissions to the 2020 NSW Parliamentary Koala enquiry following the 2019-‘20 summer bushfires overwhelmingly indicated diminished and disappearing populations.
While we have more recently seen the employment of drone surveys and scat dogs with genome analysis increasing the knowledge base and providing a clearer and more accurate picture of koala presence and health, we still have a long way to go in terms of verifying healthy and stable populations which are secure from existential threats.
The Great Koala National Park proposal, unlike much of the tick box enabling ‘science’ supporting extractive industries, is predicated on the ‘Precautionary principle’ which prioritizes minimal risk to secure the survival of our local NSW mid north coast koala
Regards, Neil LINDSAY, Coffs Harbour.
populations and along with it, a number of other threatened species.
Claims that ongoing and Industry supported studies justify native hardwood logging in primary koala habitat are not as conclusive as Mr Atkins claims, nor provide good reason not to proceed with the park proposal.
He also uses wildly exaggerated numbers from an Ernst and Young Economic Impact Study assuming a total shutdown of the State’s hardwood industry, and like many GKNP opponents fails to grasp the realities of fire behavior and control in our moist coastal forests.
The proposed additional area which includes a combination of native state forests and integrated hardwood plantations adjacent to existing National Park is based on known significant koala habitat and populations and will ultimately require a negotiated arrangement with Forestry Corporation representing the timber industry.
It does not necessitate a complete shutdown of the native hardwood industry, and will provide alternative employment opportunities for timber industry workers.
Regards, Dave WOOD, Boambee East.
He said, "Dear Jasminda, I'm working hard on body acceptance. I enjoy weeding my garden, tending to my magnolia hedge, and replenishing the birdbath wearing nothing more than my Akubra, steel cap boots, and some SPF 50+. I would never have done this while my wife was still alive, but now she's gone, I feel I can fully embrace the time I have left by soaking up the sun and being one with nature.
My problem is, lately I've had this nagging feeling that someone is watching me.
Recently I've had it confirmed.
Last week, mid-prune, I swivelled around and caught a glimpse of the woman next door peeking through her kitchen curtains at me.
I thought it was just a coincidence, but then, a couple of days later, she yelled out something like, 'I watch porn on television when I'm reclined.'
I was horrified. I don't know what to do. Am I living next door to a pervert?
I just nervously giggled and strategically covered up my remaining dignity with my pruning shears. Thankfully I'd first put the safety latch on.
Who knows what injury could have befallen me. How do I stop this peeping Thomasina?"
What we have here, Bertha, is a simple neighbourly misunderstanding.
Perhaps you could have an overthe-fence conversation.
Explain that you're not used to people running around starkers.
Tell him it's hard concentrating on your role decorating cakes for the CWA when he's cavorting around in his birthday suit.
Maybe you two can come to an arrangement.
In exchange for some freshly-baked scones once a week, your neighbour could agree to set nude gardening hours (a bit like dog off-leash hours) between 10 and 11am and provide you with bunches of freshly-cut magnolias.
What do you think, Bertha?
Sounds like a win-win to me. It may even develop into a blossoming friendship.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
DEAR News Of The Area,
It's definitely time for politics to feel good
DEAR News Of The Area,
JEFFREY Cox’s letter of 7 March raises important issues but I must respond to his conclusions.
The implication that Caz Heise is only concerned with local issues and is a soft “feel good” type of politician indicates that Mr Cox has not done his homework; if he had looked at her website, he would see that the issues she wants to confront are “serious and significant”.
Caz is listening to her local community about what matters to them and this informs how she will represent the Cowper electorate.
I will pick just one of Mr Cox’s serious issues to illustrate why I support Caz Heise.
Caz is keen to work towards making solar more affordable for more Australians.
This underpins climate change action and helps with cost of living and energy security.
The transition to renewables is well underway and it is a no brainer that people
are turning to solar.
From 2009 a number of feed-in tariffs and other incentives were offered by various governments to encourage uptake of solar.
This together with the soaring cost of energy, that is still highly reliant on fossil fuel, has further propelled the uptake of solar to the point that over 40 percent of households in Australia have solar.
The major parties have had ample time to address the transition to renewables and they have failed.
For years we have listened to the fossil fuel-based energy sector fear mongering that uptake of renewable power will drive up prices - when what the government and the energy sector should have been doing is preparing for the future.
Australia could have had a thriving, efficient and job producing renewable energy sector by now.
We have had over 50 years of innovative thinking and renewable projects not taken seriously.
Misinformation and disinformation
DEAR News Of The Area,
AFTER reading various letters in your newspaper and as we approach the federal election it might be an appropriate time to highlight the difference between ‘misinformation’ and ‘disinformation’.
Misinformation is getting things wrong - sometimes innocently, while disinformation is deliberately spreading information you know to be wrong.
Sadly it hasn't taken long for rustedon Coalition soothsayers to start their campaign of disinformation against our independent candidate.
With Cowper now a swinging seat, fear of losing does that I guess.
Regards, Bob HARRIS, Sawtell.
Sand pump issues
DEAR News Of The Area,
I WONDER who made the misguided decision to pump dredged sand from the boat ramp onto our beautiful Gallows.
There is often an unsightly black deposit on the shore and the smell of
diesel fumes in the air.
Surely this is not the best solution to the ongoing issues with the boat ramp.
Regards, Hilary MELITTAS, Coffs Jetty.
Our renewable ideas went offshore and bye-bye real progress and opportunity.
Unlike the foresight of China which dominates the renewable market and is among the fastest nations in uptake.
Comprehensive transition planning by either major party has been lacking or murky at best, and it is hard to look past their reliance on the fossil fuel industry to prop up the economy and their own coffers, rather than seriously investing in the future.
And let’s not forget the cost of climate change inaction on our economy and, in the very uncertain political world we now live in, energy security which alone should jolt us into action.
The claims Mr Cox makes about minority government and by implication Independents, must also be called out.
Independents have been instrumental in establishing the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the 2022 Climate Change Bill, regulations over advertising of junk food to kids, a cap on HECS-HELP indexation at the lower rate than inflation or
wage growth, an increase in mobile phone towers (Indi electorate), stopping Coalition cuts to the Medicare rebate, education, and JobSeeker payments in 2014 as well as many more initiatives.
Now, more than ever, we need a cross bench to maintain integrity and a focus on the well-being of ordinary Australians.
The government must represent the people of Australia not large corporate donors from the supermarket, fossil fuel, and gambling industries and the Gina Rineharts of this world who want to bring Trumpian politics here and not pay their fair share of taxes.
No sir – a minority government is more likely to result in better legislative and policy outcomes for ALL Australians.
And THAT makes me feel good!
Compassionate and generous act
DEAR News Of The Area,
KUDOS to two waste removal men who emptied bins in Nile Street, Coffs Harbour today.
The first man went to my 90 year old neighbour’s home and brought her yellow and green bins to the kerbside emptying the green bin into his truck.
The second man arrived a short while later, emptying the yellow bin then proceeded to return both bins to her
home.
Thank you to these wonderful men and to Coffs Coast Waste Services. It certainly brought a smile to my face and warmed my heart to see such a compassionate and generous act particularly under the current weather conditions.
Thank you, Beverley BALDWIN, Coffs Harbour.
I ALMOST choked on my breakfast when I read Pat Conaghan's National Party election ad in last week's NOTA.
Okay, we all know they try to put a positive spin, but seriously, talking about their plan to improve the NBN and give us cheap reliable nuclear power.
These are two of the most backward and costly mistakes by the Coalition that we are already paying for and our grandchildren will probably die from.
Useless NBN at Safety Beach because
DEAR News Of The Area,
LAST week I visited a friend at Coffs Harbour’s public hospital.
I was reminded of another of Labor’s positive changes to help our communities.
I did not need to worry about having money to pay for my car park.
of Tony Abbott's penny pinching and Labor are due to fix this with fibre within a year.
Renewable investment has been decimated already by the Coalition promising to scrap wind farms etc, costing us billions.
Give the North Coast (and our grandchildren) a better future and vote Independent.
Regards, Kim MORLEY, Safety Beach.
News Of The Area,
EACH week we see letters both for and against Forestry with the target being koalas.
When I worked (in forestry), and someone wanted to see koalas, I would take them to an area that had been logged six to twelve months earlier.
Koalas would have moved into those areas to feed on the young shoots on the trees remaining after logging.
Similarly when plantations throw new
growth, koalas move in again for the new shoots.
Koalas prefer young foliage.
Koalas are used as an excuse to stop logging.
Their long term survival has got nothing to do with the small areas logged each year.
Regards, Peter PAUNOVIC, Coffs Coast.
Wonderful!
This takes the added stress off people who are unwell, those who do not have money to pay for car parking, and of course, a huge help for families who have a family member in hospital.
Thank you Labor for changing our hospital car park to free parking!
Regards, Sharon GRAINGER, Urunga.
DEAR News Of The Area,
DEAR
Regards, Sandy RADKE, Urunga.
Spectacular ‘Luccombe’
BORDERED by some of the most spectacular sections of river on the Dorrigo Plateau, ‘Luccombe’ provides access to a landscape that has been continually evolving since the eruption of the Ebor Volcano nearly 20 million years ago.
With an area of approximately 65.56 hectares or 161.9 acres, ‘Luccombe’ runs from picturesque and productive farmland where the current owners have horses, cattle and sheep to steeper country and timbered areas and rainforest gullies with towering tree ferns and permanent-flowing springs feeding the Little Murray River and Yarrum Creek
which form the property’s boundary.
The property enjoys frontage to the Little Murray River and Yarrum Creek, both are permanent waterways with multiple swimming holes and waterfalls, the largest cascading vertically approximately 30 metres in a series of falls.
In a tightly-held area and with only two owners in the last 100 years, ‘Luccombe’ benefits from an ideal north-easterly aspect and spectacular views.
With an elevation ranging from 800 to 1,030 metres above sea level, you are able to enjoy an uninterrupted view down
the valley formed by the Little Murray River and back across the plateau to the north-east.
The original farm house has been renovated and extended over the years and is now a threebedroom plus study, twobathroom home featuring tallowwood and brushbox flooring, a 5.5 kilowatt solar system and large lockup garage.
Private but conveniently located with bitumen road frontage only 15 kilometres to town, ‘Luccombe’ provides an opportunity to capitalise on the upcoming redevelopment of the Dorrigo National Park providing numerous agritourism opportunities
for purchasers wishing to supplement farm income.
With the current owners having purchased elsewhere ‘Luccombe’ presents an opportunity that will not be repeated
with areas of unmatched natural beauty, breathtaking views, pristine waterways and productive farmland all a convenient distance to town.
Contact Rory Birt from Birt's Property for any further details or to arrange an inspection. Call 0403 913 527 or email rorybirt@ birtsproperty.com.au.
PRIVATELY positioned at the end of a cul-de-sac and on a battle-axe block, sits this high set four-bedroom, brick veneer and tile home.
Built by Brian Hopwood Homes in 2012, the home still presents beautifully.
After you enter the home through the large timber entrance door the open plan living area expands in front of you.
With tiled floors for ease of maintenance and air conditioning for comfort,
the home exudes family friendliness. The kitchen is a chef's dream with a large stone topped island bench, quality appliances and large walk-in pantry.
Like inside/outside living?
You will love this home!
The outside entertaining area is seamlessly attached to the home with large corner stacker doors which totally open the outside to in.
Off the living area is another wing which contains the bedrooms.
It’s not just the bedrooms here however as there is an additional informal living area which
New Listing
This well presented Toormina residence has excellent tenants in
the single garage has internal access. The rear deck overlooks the level fenced yard with the shops, schools and Sawtells popular café strip and beaches being less than 5 minutes away by car.
leads to each of the four bedrooms.
The master bedroom features a large modern ensuite as well as walk-in robe, whilst each of the other three bedrooms contain built in robes and ceiling fans.
The main bathroom is spacious and modern with contemporary tiling turning it into a genuine feature of the home.
The toilet is also separate.
The home also has a double lock up garage with remote door and internal access, whilst the rear yard is fully fenced for safety of kids and the pets.
Price reduced
SALE – $560,000 The owner has reduced the price and wants this property sold!! This well presented 4 bedroom home has the ideal location with Brelsford Park opposite and the town centre is only minutes away on foot. Easy care polished timber floors have been used throughout the home. 3 bedrooms have robes with the master featuring a huge ensuite and walk in robe. The dining area adjoins the well appointed kitchen with the lounge/living area being open and airy. There is also a third toilet in the laundry and off street parking for 2 cars and a private courtyard. The excellent tenant pays $600 per week with the lease expiring in January 2026. Arrange your inspection today!! Central Coffs – 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms 1/88 Albany St, Coffs Harbour 2 4 FOR SALE – $649,000 FOR SALE – $525,000 1 3 1
The owner is offering these lovely townhouses on an individual basis (three sold with three still available). Each townhouse has 3 bedrooms – 2 with robes, a dishwasher compliments the kitchens & the living areas are open plan. The garages have internal access with each townhouse having their own yard. The schools and shopping centers are close by with Sawtell’s café strip & beaches being approximately 5 minutes away by car. All townhouses are currently leased with all tenant’s keen to stay! FABULOUS FAMILY TOWNHOUSES 15A Lady Belmore Drive, Boambee East
The current lease agreement expires on 15 April, 2025 paying $695 per week and from there will go on a month to month lease. Contact Chris Hines (0439 667 719) or Kim McGinty (0432 953 796).
Patchwork group to host quilt show
By Ned COWIE
THE Verandah Post
Patchworkers will host their annual Quilt Show on the weekend of 22-23 March at the Macksville Senior Citizens’ Centre.
An entry fee of $5 will be collected at the door.
It’s a chance for those interested in the art of quilting to learn about the craft with an inspiring and interesting array of quilts created by the Patchworkers on display.
Sponsored by Macksville business Hanging By A Thread, the event has become a favourite among craftspeople for more than 30 years.
Each year the group donates proceeds to a worthy cause.
This year the group will use the event to support local attraction Mary Boulton’s Pioneer Cottage and Museum in Gumma Road, Macksville.
The Verandah Post Patchworkers is a not-forprofit group that meets informally as many as three times a week.
The group of mostly older women create and converse in a back room of Wallace Street’s Hanging By A Thread in what usually turns out more of a lively craft session than a formal meeting.
“We have about 35 members and when we meet, we all make suggestions about what charity to support, then we take a vote and commit,” a group spokesperson said.
Members
Nambucca
LOCALSPORT
Knockin’ it for six
By David WIGLEY
THE Velociraptors claimed the Women’s A Grade title in the Coffs Football 6s summer competition, overcoming the Salty Scorpions 2-0 in a hardfought grand final at Coffs Coast Synthetics last Tuesday.
Locked at 0-0 at halftime, both goalkeepers produced crucial saves to keep the
game in the balance before the Velociraptors broke the deadlock midway through the second half.
Their opener came via a looping effort that sailed over the defence, while the second was a clinical strike buried into the bottom corner.
Scorpions captain Amy Briggenshaw was full of praise for the contest.
“It was a great game with high intensity from both teams,” she said.
“The passing, the pressure, it was relentless.
“We love this format and the competition just keeps getting better.”
A passionate advocate for the six-a-side game, Briggenshaw’s enthusiasm extends well beyond the pitch.
“We’re all absolutely in love with this game,” she said.
“Most of us play women’s, mixed, and full-field football.
“Our kids play too, and Leticia, Miki, and I all coach.
“On top of that, I somehow put my hand up to be secretary for Sawtell FC this year.”
The summer competition, now in its third year on synthetic pitches, continues
to thrive with around 420 players taking part.
Women’s A Grade boasts 80 participants, while Mixed Grade has 200, and Men’s A/B Grade features another 140.
“It’s not just about football and fitness, it’s a social thing too,” Briggenshaw said.
“We have a blast out there.
"And playing year-round is a huge plus.
“Credit to Hunter and Tao for running the comp, though
their music choices could use some work,” she laughed.
In the Men’s A Grade final, “Mitch Brewster and the Mad Deadly Dingoes” secured a 2-0 victory over Yew-Ventus, while ‘Witness the Fitness’ edged out Norfolk Engood on penalties to claim the Men’s B Grade crown.
The next competition kicks off on the week commencing 28 April.
COFFS COAST News Of The Area
q Velociraptors won the Women’s A Grade grand final.
q Salty Scorpions were Women’s A Grade runners-up.
q Mitch Brewster and the Mad Deadly Dingoes won the Men’s A Grade final.
q Witness the Fitness won the Men’s B Grade on penalties.
q
of
Valley’s Verandah Post Patchworkers group displaying works to be raffled at this month’s quilt show in Macksville.
Honouring service and sacrifice
THE annual SGT Matthew Locke MG charity football event will be held at Bellingen Park on Saturday 22 March.
The match honours the memory and sacrifice of Bellingen’s Matthew Locke, who joined the Army at the age of 17 and deployed to Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Locke was awarded the Medal for Gallantry in displaying courage of the highest order during action in hazardous circumstances.
He was fatally wounded by Taliban insurgents in 2007 while serving with the Special Air Service Regiment in Uruzgan Province, southern Afghanistan.
Money raised through the annual charity football event is used to advocate for veterans on the Mid North Coast as well as providing schools and education to disadvantaged children in remote Timor Leste.
This year’s match-ups see the Australian Army Thunder take on the Sawtell Panthers
at Bellingen Park, while the Bellingen Magpies face off against the Brisbane Jackals.
The Jackals, a young veterans’ team from Queensland, recently
‘Rogaining’ comes to Coffs Coast
ADVENTURE seekers are invited to the region’s first ‘Rogaine’ event, to be held in the Coffs Harbour hinterland on Saturday 26 April 2025.
Rogaining is a longdistance orienteering sport that involves navigating between checkpoints, marked by a flag, within a time limit.
The goal is to score the highest by visiting the most checkpoints.
Teams of two to five people navigate on foot using a topographic map and compass to find checkpoints.
This Rogaining event has an option of either a six or 12 hour adventure in the
Lower Bucca area.
One of the event organisers, Keelan Birch explained the concept.
"We've been looking at doing a rogaine in the Coffs Harbour region for some time as we have never hosted one,” Keelan said.
“Most rogaines are based around Sydney, so it's exciting to bring a rogaine to the Coffs Harbour hinterland.
“It's an area that has never been rogained before, but almost all controls have been set off track.
"There is also a large track network containing a mix of forestry tracks and
singletracks tracks formed by motorbikes.
"Highlights of the area include lovely rainforest lined creek lines, a few waterfalls, old mining relics and lookouts.”
The local event is an interstate challenge between NSW and Queensland rogaining communities.
The event starts on Saturday with Friday (ANZAC Day) being a public holiday.
Camping is included in the entry fee for Friday and Saturday night at the event hub. Visit the NSW Rogaining website for more information.
will open around 11am.
The main games will
Coffs Coast surfers excel at Cadet Cup
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Coast junior surfers have achieved top results at the recent Reflections Cadet Cup at Rainbow Beach in Bonny Hills.
First held in 2024, the Reflections Cadet Cup is a 5500-rated event on Surfing Australia’s National Series calendar, attracting top juniors from across the state.
Sawtell Boardriders Club member Rio Luther Barr finished third in the Under 16 Boys.
Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club members featured prominently in a few
age groups.
Sage White from Moonee Beach finished runner-up in the Under 12 Girls, with Woolgoolga’s Hazel Ralston finishing fourth, and Matilda Harrigan making the semifinal.
Hamish Harrigan made the semi-finals of the Under 16 Boys, Tye Morrison made the quarter finals, and Jarrah Jay White made the semifinals of the Under 14 Boys.
Surfest director Warren Smith said conditions were rough thanks to a strong north-east swell and northeast winds caused by tropical cyclone Alfred further north,
however he said the standard of surfing and ocean skills was exceptional.
“Conditions got rougher yesterday on Saturday, March 1, and were really testing for all the age groups, particularly the young groups, and today on Sunday, March 2, has been rough all day and we’ve had to reschedule events to accommodate the conditions,” he said.
“The one thing that has impressed everyone, from our lifeguards to the judges, has been the level of surfing and the surf awareness that the kids have shown all the way through.
“It gives you so much faith in what they are doing with their parents and surf clubs.
“The lifeguards have been so impressed with how they read the surf, their surf ability
returned from the United States after competing in the Vegas 9s Rugby League Festival.
The Australian Army
Band Newcastle will perform at the matches and again the next day at C.ex Club Coffs Harbour.
start after lunch with several preliminary matches scheduled earlier. Gates
q Member for Oxley Michael Kemp and Bellingen Mayor Steve Allan welcoming the Army Thunder at last year’s event.
q SGT Matthew Locke MG.
q Rogaining is a long-distance orienteering sport that involves navigating between checkpoints, marked by a flag, within a time limit.
and their attitude.”
A second Reflections Cadet Cup event for the year
will be held in Tuncurry in December.
q Hazel Ralston and Sage White.
Coffs Suns player wins gold for NSW
By Aiden BURGESS
ONE of the Coffs Coast’s best young basketballers has won a gold medal while representing her state.
Alexis Plater was part of the NSW women’s team that won this year’s Under 20 National Championships in Ballarat.
Plater and her NSW teammates prevailed 69-64 against Queensland, in a State of Origin decider for the gold
Junior cricket semi-finals to be decided
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS junior cricketers are set to play off for grand final spots, with the Sixers Cricket League’s Under 16s, Under 14s, and Under 12s semi-finals scheduled to be played this week.
The Under 16s semifinals sees minor premiers the Nana Glen Lizards take on the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels at Reg Ryan Oval, and the Sawtell Sloggers and Macksville Bulls playing off at Toormina Oval, on Friday afternoon.
The Under 14s semifinals were scheduled to be played this week.
Minor premiers Sawtell Storm hosted Diggers Cricket Club at Toormina Oval, and Macksville Bulls hosted the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels.
The Under 16s and Under 14s grand finals are scheduled to be played next week.
Due to last week’s downpour, the final round of the Under 16s and Under 14s seasons were abandoned.
The final round of the second Under 12s season of the summer was also abandoned, with the semifinals scheduled to be played this Saturday.
The Coffs Harbour Suns player scored six points and had five rebounds in the gold medal game, in a championship decider which saw the lead change multiple times.
NSW avenged their 8679 defeat at the hands of Queensland in their prior pool match.
Plater had three points, two assists, and two steals off the bench for NSW, in her sides’ 77-63 win in their pool match against the ACT.
NSW qualified for the gold medal game with a narrow 55-53 win in their semi-final against Victoria.
q Nana
Heading into the national championships, Plater was coming off a strong representative season for the Coffs Harbour Suns women’s team.
She was awarded the Most Valuable Player of the Far North Coast based Sunshine Basketball Conference.
Playing for St John Paul College Coffs Harbour, she was part of the school’s open girls team that won last year’s NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Basketball Championships. She has also previously represented NSW Country at the 2024 Under 18 National Championships in Brisbane.
COFFS Harbour cricket teams are set to play off for grand final spots this weekend, with Sixers Cricket League’s Preliminary Finals scheduled across the region.
Last week’s downpour meant the first week of the finals was abandoned, with the highest placed teams progressing.
First grade minor
premiers Nana Glen Lizards progressed through to this season’s grand final, after their Qualifying Final against Sawtell Cricket Club was washed out.
Sawtell and Bellingen/ Dorrigo Cricket Club are now scheduled to play off for a grand final spot this weekend, when they meet in their Preliminary Final at Richardson Park. Bellingen/Dorrigo
progressed through to the Preliminary Final, after their Elimination Final against Coffs Colts Cricket Club was washed out.
Sawtell won their only completed match this season, beating Bellingen/ Dorrigo by 74-runs in their one-day match in Round 9 last month.
Their Round 4 match was abandoned due to wet weather.
The first grade Preliminary Final will be a two-day match played this weekend, 15-16 March, at Richardson Park.
Second grade minor premiers Diggers Cricket Club progressed to the grand final, after their Qualifying Final against the Nana Glen Lizards was washed out.
Nana Glen now plays Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels for a grand final spot,
in their Preliminary Final at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
Third grade minor premiers Diggers Cricket Club progressed to the grand final, after their Qualifying Final against the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels was washed out.
The Rebels now play Nana Glen Lizards for a grand final spot, in their Preliminary Final in
Woolgoolga.
Fourth grade minor premiers Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels progressed to the grand final, after their Qualifying Final against Diggers Cricket Club was washed out.
Diggers now play Coffs Colts Cricket Club for a grand final spot, in their Preliminary Final at Reg Ryan Oval.
11. Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels Blue. 6 points. 1 win. 3 losses. 1 no result.
Dorrigo.
Glen Lizards finished as Under 16s minor premiers.
q Alexis Plater (far left) celebrates with her NSW teammates.
Coffs club holds opening Khanacross round
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour and District Sporting Car Club staged the start of the Bonville Servo and LPO Bush Khanacross Series on Sunday 2 March at Raleigh Raceway.
Round 1 attracted 33 entries, with junior competitors from as far as Armidale and Nabiac testing their driving skills.
Kai Hancock was first in juniors on the day. He was commended when collecting his prize for his volunteer efforts in helping set up the event.
Club President Martin Smith said "it shows great character”.
Kai replied that he had benefitted from the club’s support with his first job due to references from volunteering at club events
and rallies.
“Second in Juniors, Liam Upcroft, was hot on Kai’s heels and was impressive to watch at his first ever Bush Khanacross,” the club said in its recap of the event.
“Third place in juniors was taken by Harlem Runge, who is new to Khanacross but likely to be one to watch in the future.
“It wasn’t just the juniors who had a great
day out, at times the event had the feel of a family reunion, as friends and families with decades of history competing together met new and potential club members.
“Several spouses and families shared cars while jostling for podium positions, but at the end of the day, one family dominated.
“Scott Beard found time between volunteering to battle it out against his boys
Dallan and Liam and wife Sharon. “Sharon took out the top spot in the ladies division, Tanya Nehl was second and Ashlee Mabey third.
“Dallan Beard was second outright just behind winner Paul Mountford. Third outright was Rod Philips in his special buggy.”
This year is set to be a big one for the Coffs Harbour and District Sporting Car Club.
Multiple events are planned, from entry level up to the Quality Accounting Coffs Coast Rally, a Qld and NSW event.
Spectators are welcome at all events, with driver participation possible at introductory events from the age of 12.
Anyone interested in joining the resurgence of rally driving in the area or willing to volunteer can contact the club at coffscarclub.com.au.
Wallabies great to coach at Festival of Rugby
By Aiden BURGESS
WALLABIES great Owen
Finegan will be the head coach of the Australian Barbarians when they take on Japan A at C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Saturday, 5 April, as part of the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby.
Finegan played 56 tests
for Australia and was a member of the Wallabies World Cup winning team in 1999.
A former Australian Barbarians player himself, he was looking forward to coaching a side with a lot of flair.
"The Australian Barbarians have an amazing history in Australian rugby
and a tradition of always encouraging flair amongst their players while giving them the ability to express themselves and show their talent on the field,” he said.
“I'm thrilled to be leading this team against a quality Japanese outfit.
"We’ve assembled a strong coaching group and will be working with some
exciting players to put on a great spectacle for rugby fans at the festival.”
Finegan will be joined by assistant coaches Mark Bell and David Knox, both former Wallabies with outstanding coaching pedigrees.
Bell, a renowned scrum coach and father of current Wallaby Angus Bell, will
q Smuggler at the Sydney to Hobart
oversee the forward pack, while Knox, a former Wallabies playmaker, will bring his attacking expertise to the backs.
The former Wallabies will be coaching against former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones, who is leading the Japanese team.
Before the Australian Barbarians and Japan
A showdown, the Coffs Harbour Snappers and Southern Cross University face off in their first local derby of the season.
The curtain raiser is part of the opening round of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.
For more information on the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby, visit coffscoast. com.au/rugby.
Yacht race.
q Paul Montford, outright winner on the day, in the passenger seat and giving guidance to junior Shianne McKee. Photos: Smiley Kez Photography.
q Liam Upcroft in the family Subaru on his way to second place in Juniors.
q Kai Hancock, the fastest junior, continues to progress his driving skills.
q Liam Beard had a fun day testing a new set of wheels in the form of a Daihatsu Charade.
q Tania Nehl made use of one of the club cars, a Honda Jazz, to finish second in the ladies division.
q Rod Phillips had a good day out in his immaculate buggy to finish third outright.
Coffs Basketball season heading towards finals
By Aiden BURGESS
THERE are two rounds to go until the finals series of the Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior summer season.
Coffs Harbour Suns 18s Men 1 had a 79-49 win against “All Washed Up”.
game high 25 points, and Kira Juffermans scored 21 points.
27 points for “Bricklayers”.
“Ring Ins” maintained their undefeated record with a 43-24 win against “Mantas Mermaids”.
Nikola Turner had a game high 15 points for the winners.
Nicholas Nugent had a game high 21 points, and Phillip Ely top scored for the winners with 18 points.
Round 7 of the ten-round season was recently decided at Sportz Central. Men’s A Grade ladder leaders “Beyond TowingCoffs Harbour” had a 54-39 win against “The Chihuahuas”.
Noah Light had a game high 34 points, and James Nebo scored 23 points.
Women’s A Grade ladder leaders Coffs Harbour Suns 18s Women 1 had an 85-35 win against Coffs Harbour Suns 16s Women 2. Claudia Simpson had a
Narwhals Loaded had an 84-36 win against Coffs Harbour Suns 16s Women 1.
Alexis Plater had a game high 26 points, and Maya Duncan scored 24 points.
In Men’s B Grade, “Bricklayers” had a 64-53 win against “Can’t Catch a Breath”.
Nic Moore had a game high
In Men’s C Grade, “Mantastic” had a 39-36 win against ladder leaders Coffs Harbour Suns 16s Men 1.
“Hoop Troop” had a 6239 win against “The Pingas” - Nathan Parkes had a game high 20 points for the winners.
Women’s social competition ladder leaders
National Touch Championships rescheduled
By Aiden BURGESS
TOUCH Football
Australia’s “The Championships”, which were due to take place last week in Coffs Harbour, have been rescheduled.
The Championships will now take place from 30 May to 1 June in Coffs Harbour.
The National Championships were postponed due to severe flood warnings off the South East Queensland coast caused by then Category Two Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
The safety of participants, officials, staff, and spectators was the top priority for Touch Football Australia.
A complex rescheduling process followed due to limited availability at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Championships will involve Coffs Harbour players in Northern Eagles representative teams.
Last year saw a record 165 teams in action from across the country.
It will be the second year in a row Coffs Harbour will host the National Championships.
Coffs Harbour is also hosting the National Youth Championships in October; also for the second straight year.
Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s men’s competitions are held on Monday nights at Sportz Central.
The women's competitions are held on Tuesday nights at Sportz Central.
Coffs Oztag sides to take on state’s best
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour’s senior Oztag representative teams are preparing to take on the state’s finest at home.
The Coffs Harbour Cavaliers sides will take on teams from across the state, during next week’s NSW Senior State Championships in Coffs Harbour.
This year’s State Championships will be held from Friday, 21 March, to Sunday, 23 March, at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.
Coffs Harbour teams will feature in four divisions; the Women’s Open, Women’s 27s, Mixed 20s, and Mixed Open.
This year's event will
see 196 teams play off for state titles across 16 divisions.
State titles will be decided during finals day on Sunday, 23 March.
Coffs Harbour’s Mixed Senior and Women’s 27s teams made it to the quarter-finals at last year’s State Championships.
Coffs Harbour is also hosting the Australian Junior Championships in October, and the Australian Senior Championships in November.
Coffs Harbour Oztag holds weekly senior competitions, with mixed on Tuesday nights and men’s on Wednesday nights at Geoff King Motors Oval and surrounding fields.
q Coffs Harbour players at last year’s National Championships.
q Coffs Harbour’s Women’s Open team at last year’s State Championships.
Coffs Table Tennis Results
By Margret ILES
FRIDAY 7th March, 2025
Mid North Coast Veterans Golfers Association
By Colin CUTT
TUESDAY, 4th March, 61 MNC
Veteran Golfers competed in a single stableford at Nambucca Island Golf Course in fairly wet conditions.
Winners: A Grade – Winner
Paul Ryan 38, 1st runner-up Kevin
Sawtell Golf Results
4/3 MEDLEY Stableford Warren Johnstone 36, Josh Siebert 35c/b, Ian Reynolds 35, Peter Watt 34c/b. Balls to 31. NTP 7 A: Peter Matten, B: Chris Ryan, C: Mike Ryan. NTP 11 A: Kane Hickey (pro pin), C: Gerard Crowe Albert won!
Reece Baker d Lulu Zhang 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Char Berglund 3/0, Troy Prystasz d David Iles 3/0, Bo Zhang d Dominic Arjona 3/0.
Division 1
Sanford 37, 2nd runner-up Glen
Crow 34 c/b, 3rd runner-up Ken Klemm 34.
B Grade: Winner - Cormac McMullan 41, 2nd Dave Salvin 36 c/b, 3rd runner-up Phillip Hemming 36, 3rd runner-up Mike Raymond 34 c/b.
NTP’s: 5th Anthony Shields, 8th Ross Donnelly, 13th & 18th Glen Crowe.
Ball run to 32 pts.
Sawtell RSL Snooker
Club
By Ken MASON
TUESDAY 4th March 2025
Main Draw Winners: - Brian Ng - R/U Bernie Couzens
Consolation Winners: - John Browning - R/U Norm Monaghan
Asttan (2)
Ben (2)
Chris (2)
Craig C (2)
Craig S (2)
Dean (4)
Jeremy (3)
Kevin (2)
Kurt (2)
Paul (4)
Peter (2)
Ray (2)
Reg (3)
Ricky (1)
Rob Ha (1)
Corindi’s Finest
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 44
their 21st WNCL title.
Speaking after the match, Learoyd said it was important to anchor the innings for her state after a key early wicket.
"It was tough [out in the
middle], it was just a matter of trying to soak up pressure," she told cricket. com.au.
"T's (Tahlia Wilson's) a really big wicket at the moment and to lose her early was a big setback for us, so it
Reece Baker d Bo Zhang 3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d Troy Prystasz 3/0, Troy Prystasz d Bo Zhang 3/1, Reece Baker d Lachlan Dierkx 3/0. WINNER: Reece Baker from Lachlan Dierkx.
Division 2
Sawtell Bowls Results
By Geoff HAMPSON
MONDAY Twilight Bowls 3/3/25
R Redman, J Knight, K Taylor
DEF S Cook, L Kratz, G Hampson
E Korchma, K Mason, L Mitchell
DEF R Hampson, B Tremayne, C
Lulu Zhang d Dominic Arjona 3/0, Char Berglund d David Iles 3/0, Dominic Arjona d David Iles
3/0, Lulu Zhang d Char Berglund 3/0. WINNER: Lulu Zhang from Char Berglund.
Christian J Chapman, B
DEF R Avery, J
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls
4/3/25Cancelled
WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 5/3/25 Cancelled
FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls 7/3/25 Cancelled
Rob Ho (4)
High pegs Ben (60) Jeremy (60) Leader Board Surgical Steel 31
was a matter of just trying to anchor the innings and hope everyone else could bat around me.”
The vital innings capped off a stellar season for Learoyd, in which she scored 577 runs to be second in the competition, at an average of 48.08.
The recent season also saw her score her second career century in the WNCL.
call-up to the Governor-General's XI that played England in January.
Learoyd also played a role in helping the Sydney Thunder to finish one win from a grand final, averaging 17.12 runs a game during the latest Women's Big Bash League season.
The talented cricketer grew up in Corindi Beach, and played her junior cricket for Diggers Cricket Club.
q Sawtell Major Singles Champion P.T.Clarke who defeated B Fitzpatrick 25/18.
Connors, D Ryan
Cherne, N Elford
q Corindi Beach cricketer Anika Learoyd playing for the Sydney Thunder. Photo: Cricket NSW/Getty Images.
LOCALCLASSIFIEDS
EWER
Joan Rosemary
27th February 2025, peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital. Late of Urunga. Loving mother of Noel (dec’d), Paul (dec’d), Warren and Jody. Grandmother and great-grandmother of their children.
Aged 81 Years
Sadly Missed
Joan was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL
MATHER,
Gary Phillip
5th March 2025, peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital, late of Bonville. Loving father of Ben. Adored ‘popo’ of Anna and Hester. Special mate of Keith and Gollum.
Viking Man Goes To Valhalla
Gary was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Richard John Petters
5th March 2025
Passed away peacefully at home holding Wendy’s hand. Late of Coffs Harbour. A much loved husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather who endured much suffering this year and is now enjoying the blessed love of our Lord Jesus.
In his 70th Year
Richard Petters Re-Action Installations has been privately farewelled.
VICTOR RULLIS
FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Doreen Edith Wilson
6th March 2025
Passed peacefully in her sleep at Woolgoolga District Retirement Village. Loving and loved wife to Bill (dec). Mother to Kerry, Rod, Peter, Julie (dec) & Susan. Fond and caring mother-in-law to Gael, Joy, Jenny, Alex, John and Gail. Cherished and devoted grandmother to Cindi, Darren, Kym, Jarad, Braden, Clinton, Melanie, Toby, Aaron & Tania (& their partners). Proud and loving great-grandmother to Jordan, Mitchell, Brandon, Zara, Nicola, Ethan, Sam, Mia, Zoe, Jett, Cameron, Lucy, Ben, Lillie, Charlie, Felix, Louis, Jack, Riley & Giselle. Great-great-grandmother to Jackson. Loved Aunty and cherished friend to many. 101 years (& 3months) old when she left us.
"It's hard to say goodbye. . ."
A private family service & cremation was held.
VICTOR RULLIS
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
newsofthearea.com.au
STOKES
Winifred Lucy May ‘Wendy’
2nd March 2025, passed away suddenly at home. Cherished mother of Nigel, Jackie and Joshua. Beloved grandmother to her many grandkids. Loved sister and sister-in-law.
Aged 73 Years Gone Fishing
Wendy’s Funeral Service was held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Thursday 13th March 2025.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
ads@newsofthearea.com.au
QUINN Peter John
5th March 2025, peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, late of Coffs Harbour. Much loved husband of Liz. Loving father of Alison and Megan, father-in-law of David. Cherished ‘grandpa Pete’ of Hannah, Jack, Ella, Alex and Charlotte, great-grandpa of Max and Violet.
Aged 88 Years
In accordance with Peter’s wishes he was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
Bryan Bolitho 4th March 2025
Passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Soul mate & loved husband to Linda. Adored father to Jack and partner Jess. Loving brother-in-law to Kim & Renzo. Adored uncle to Lara and Damon, and great-uncle to Grace & Isla. Loved son to Beverley, Brian & Marie. Older brother to Paul. Loved son-in-law to Brian (dec) & Joan. Life long friend to many.
Aged 62 Years
When my soul is set free, do not weep, let me return to the quiet embrace of the earth - where the wind sings, the trees remember, and the river carries me home in peace.
Family & friend’s are warmly invited to attend Bryan’s funeral service on Wednesday, 19th March 2025 at 11am in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Rd, Karangi.
Much gratitude to all who supported & cared for Bryan & to all at Coffs Harbour Health Campus.
VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007
www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
The family will hold a private celebration of his life at a later date.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour
6652 1999
Michael Sydney ‘Poss’
13.04.1959—09.03.2025
Passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family at home. Loving partner to Vicki. Cherished father to Ben, Angie, Raych and Damo. Blessed pop to thirteen and great-grandfather to one.
Aged 65 Years Young
His Best Round Of Golf Starts On The 19th Hole
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Poss’ Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive
Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 14th March 2025 commencing at 1.00 pm.
In lieu of floral tributes the family would appreciate donations to Palliative Care. A collection box will be available at the Chapel.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Maxwell Gant ‘Max’ 4th March 2025
Passed away peacefully at Grafton Hospital. Late of Upper Orara. Much loved husband of June (dec). Loving father and father-in-law of Scott, Rodd & Sharon, and David (dec). Proud Pop to Elle, Thomas & Star, and Jake & Georgia. Great-grandfather to Kobey and Tate. Beloved brother of Ivan (dec), Julie and Errol.
Aged 97 years
Forever in our hearts, now back at sea.
Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Max’s funeral service to be held on Monday, 31st March 2025 at 2pm in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi.
(02) 6651
CROFTS
01.01.1952-10.03.2025
Passed peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital, late of Coffs Harbour. Beloved wife of Phillip. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Michael & Belinda and Megan & Murray. Adored nana of Imogen, Ezra, Arabella, Caleb and Malakai. Loved sister, sister-in-law and aunt.
Aged 73 Years
A private Committal Service will be held for Elise at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Elise’s Service of Thanksgiving to be held at Coffs Harbour Uniting Church, Coffs Harbour on Friday 21st March 2025 commencing at 2.30 pm.
In lieu of floral tributes the family would appreciate donations to Médecins Sans Frontières. A collection box will be available at the Church.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
ROLPH
Jonathan Stuart ‘Jon’ 5th March 2025, suddenly at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly of England. Much loved husband of Claire. Loving father and father-in-law of Daniel & Steph, Kathryn and Eleanor. Caring son of Eunice & John (dec’d). Jon will be greatly missed by all his extended family, friends and colleagues.
Aged 60 Years
A Wonderful Man Taken Far Too Young
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Jon’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 21st March 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.
In lieu of floral tributes the family would appreciate donations to the Heart Foundation. A collection box will be available at the Chapel.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
SINGH Darshan
7th March 2025, peacefully passed away at RFBI Masonic Village, Coffs Harbour, formerly of Woolgoolga.
Dearly beloved husband of Nasib (dec’d). Loving father and father-in-law of Shaminder & the late Jindher Chahal, Hardev (dec’d) & Harbajan Khela, Harbains (dec’d) & Harjinder Khela, Jagdish & Jit Sodhi and Rashpal & the late Joja Bhuta. Dear grandfather and great-grandfather of their children.
Aged 97 Years
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Darshan’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Saturday 15th March 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Memorial Notices
Lester Ronald Zietsch 11th March 2025
Passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Beloved husband of Yvonne (dec). Loving father of Leanne and Nicole. Proud pop of Adelaide. Great-grand pop to Leo. Aged 88 Years Reunited with Yvonne.
Lester was privately cremated. Family & friend’s are welcome to celebrate Les’s life on Saturday, 15th March 2025 at 12 noon at the Park Beach Bowls Club, Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour. (02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
VICTOR RULLIS
Funeral Notices
Funeral Notices
LOCALCLASSIFIEDS
Public Notices
Revival Centres Church - Coffs HarbourHave you received the Holy Spirit since you believed?
CWA Hall 3 Dalley St, Coffs Harbour Sundays 10.00 am Mobile 0427 949 206 - revivalcentres.org
CB uhf radios twin pack in case with chargers brand new Cost $559 sell for $350 Coffs Harbour 0403 033 205 e210325
DOUBLE bass, Stentor 3/4 with bow and padded bag. Exc cond. $2,000 0429 651 522 e140325
HISENSE 578L sideby-side refrigerator with cold water dispenser (no external plumbing req’d) 1790 H x 900 W x 700 D 12mths old with 5yr gold service warranty. $1,100 0412 081 950
LARGE outdoor umbrella with steel brace $60. 0498 090 551
LARGE outdoor umbrella with steel brace $60. 0498 090 551 F140624
For Sale
GRANITE coffee table sitting on nice wrought iron frame 58cm L x 41cm W x 44cm H Perfect condition. $100 0491 035 704
HEAVY duty glass table top. 90cm Diameter x 1cm thick $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
HOOVER EVC500 Evaporative Cooler, new from Bunnings $299, still in box. $80. 0434212460 F190724
HUGH vintage mirror. 100cm x 70cm. can be hung horizontal or vwertical. $75 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119 f140225
JACKET, Ladies Brown, suede leather Size 10, zip front, no marks $45. 0407654879 F120724
KAYAK, light weight & fast. Green Ant 580mm W x 4.570 m L fibreglass has extras inc thule roof racks Exc cond. $750 0439 740 453
LADIES clothing mostly new, size 6. Must sell going cheap. Contact Kim 0403 280 231
LADIES Colorado Silverton CF sure grip black leather work/walking shoe size 8, still new in box. $90. 6655 3193
LARGE quanity of stained glass panels worth over $2,000 Asking $1000. 0491 035 704 best contact early morning/evening
LEATHER lounge 3 x 1 + 2 x 1, 2 timber outdoor settings & 2 budgies in large cage. 0407 580 436 F280624
PAIR of lovely jacquared fabric vintage-style footrest 60cm x 40cmx 30cm H $35 each Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
PASTA Maker (arcosteel) 150mm Unused, $30 0439 682 267 F280225
PAVERS 90mm square $1 each. 0467 640 964
PEAK ellipse rollator safewok load 1150kgs only 6mth old As New $95 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
PIANO ex cond incl stool Yamaha 93cm H. $1000 neg. 0402 760 065 Re280225
PIANO Leider. Recently reconditioned $1500. 0402 264 715
PORCELAIN biscuit jar (8in high) with cream and jam pots, tea strainer and small flat teaspoon holder. $35 0400 641 561
PORCELAIN biscuit jar $18 ono - For die-hard morning tea enthusiasts! 0400 641 561
RECORDING vocal booth ISK RF-5 Desk or stand mount, unused still boxed. $100. Ph 0409 561 719
STORAGE cupboard 1m H x 3mL x 60cm D. 6 drawers, 2 long drawers 1m long and 3 double shelves. Black/brown outside, white inside Immac cond. Moving sale $200. 0415 981 605
SOUND Bar 2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100 Ph 0412 081 950
SUITCASE, 70cm, ex cond, used once. $30 6654 0829
THREE Leas floral folding screen. 165cm H x 60cm W. $30 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119 f140225
TRAILER WHEEL Ford 205-65- R15 pro sand blasted epoxy primed & painted good rubber $60 0467 634 668
TWO macrame wall hangers hand made $50 both 0412 254 563
TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both 0412 254 563
1999 Nissan Patrol STGU, manual, 4x4 diesel, 330,000klms comes with Cooper tyres, CB radio, snorkel chrome bull bar, clear view extension mirrors more extras, exc cond $30,000. CK52AQ Coffs Harbour. 0407 536 896
2002 X Type Jaguar Auto sedan 201320kms Leather interior. Near new tyres. Interior & exterior GC. CVH35U Rego June 25 $5,500 ono 0402 541 141 Darren e140325
FORD FG 2009 cab chas ute, 6 spd man Tip Top tray with trundle ladder racks and tool box, H Reece T/Bar alloys 262,000kms excel cond one owner always garaged. $12,750 ono Ph 0422 440 802
MITSUBISHI Mirage white hatchback 2015 manual, 47,454 klms well serviced & garaged exc cond, one lady owner, $11,990 ono CD68GF. 6651 9790RUS050925
Slide out Kitchen New Awning with LED lighting. INTERNAL
Queen Bed with Reading Lights both sides
2 Deep Cycle Batteries
Tri-Fold Table
3 Way Full size Fridge/Freezer
3 Gas 1 Electric Cooktop with Gas Oven, Grill & Rangehood
Sphere Microwave Oven Hot Water Storage Heater
Furrion Entertainment System (Outside Speakers)
Furrion LED HD TV
Ensuite with separate Shower / Toilet
3.3 KG Automatic Washing Machine
Air Conditioning. Serviced regularly Ph John 0434 195 197
MITSUBISHI Pajero GLS 4WD 3.2L diesel 2003. Mechanically sound, in great condition Owned 13 years, well serviced & garaged 370,500km. Rego to 8 Jun ‘25 YZY538 $8,500 ono 0474 311 763
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2005. 1 Lady owner 312,000km, always serviced & garaged. EC & accident free. AH06HD Great car. $5,900 0418 235 973
3.4m Savage with trailer rego, 6HP and electric swivel seats, cover safety gear, lots of extras ACF724N. L26949 $2,000. 0427 528 084
THIS LUXURY 2011 NOVA STELLAR, TOP OF THE RANGE VAN IS CUSTOM MADE AND TAKES OUT ALL THE DESIGN FAULTS FOUND IN NORMAL FACTORY PRODUCED VANS AND IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION PRICE: $50,000 ono
FEATURES:
2012 A'Van Maddison Poptop. All extras for free-camping. Exc cond. $25,600 ono Ph 0447 550 017
4981 8882
LUXURY Regal 23’ Caravan. Lge ensuite separate toilet/shower/ front load washing machine, full oven recessed bench elec/ hot water, Q bed/full wardrobes, reverse air/con, microwave/ lge fridge freezer, 3-way & pullout pantry, spice cupboard, lots of storage, radioTV with satellite connection wired for solar panels new awning, full annexe, fully serviced like new, front boot Rego 6/8/25, 754QPJ
$28,000. Ph John 0428 464 063
7310mm (24 Foot) length, Rock and roll suspension off road with electric brakes and shock absorbers to all wheels, 2 x single beds with 3 x doonas for each bed, covers and sheets, Large Ensuite with shower/Ceramic toilet and vanity/washing machine/Hoover vacuum –shower doubles as a bath, 4 burner gas cooktop/oven/grill, 3 way fridge/freezer, Gas/240V hot water system, Microwave, Slide out food pantry – two basket drawers for food storage + wine glass storage + plate storage, Portable table located in wardrobe for eating inside the van on overnight trips, Lounge converts to another single bed, 2 x wine storage lockers + fresh water pump under the lounge, 40″ flat screen TV with DVD/radio, Slide out computer desk with 12/240v connections, Explorer plug to computer desk for aerial connections + printer drawer under desk, Dometic B3000 air conditioner, 20 KVA diesel heater under lounge with electronic controls, All windows have fly screens and block out blinds, 4.5KVA remote start generator which will run the air conditioning and other services where 240v power is not available, ¾ Tunnel containing: full annex together with plastic windows and 3meter BBQ annex extending out to the tow ball, Sunshade awning and awning struts, Front Boot Locker containing 2 new 160 AH long life Gel batteries with 5-year warranty, bag of steel stakes, bag of tension ropes, tools and hose fittings and Caravan Jack, A Frame mesh containing fresh water hoses, Under Chassis tool box containing wood blocks, caravan ramps and chocks, 8-meter sullage hose in pipe container under the caravan access from the rear, 3 x fresh water tanks, with independent valve system to enable pumping from specific water tanks, 2 x 100L and 1 x 60L tanks, 2 x external LED lights and BBQ light and LED handle at entrance, Lifestyle picnic table - folds out from side of the van, External speakers and TV connections for running a portable TV outside in the annex area, Gas bayonet at the front of the van for the BBQ, Reversing camera, New caravan cover, New awning Note: Landcruiser also available as a package deal. POA. Phone 0412 081 950
Camper potti (toilet) incl chemicals. As new cond. $95. Photos can be supplied. 0490161119
Classifieds 4981 8882
Caravans
Caravans
XG
Boats
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Camper Trailer
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Motors
PUZZLES
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OVER 25
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SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAK REPAIRS, ROOF REPAIRS ,ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL & EAVE CLADDING
SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING
SPECIAIZING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING, GENERAL PLUMBING
DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING MADE FROM COLORBOND
DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING MADE FROM COLORBOND
SUPPLY ONLY OR SUPPLY AND INSTALL.
4 METHODS OF USE: FLUSH VERTICAL, FLUSH HORIZONTAL, OVERLAP HORIZONTAL AND EAVE LOOK
Mobile 0434 330 555 nestlershomeimprovements.com.au nestlersversatilecladding.com.au
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ONTHEBOX
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
DARBY AND JOAN
ABC TV, 7.30pm
This crime-solving series finds ex-detective Jack and widowed English nurse Joan (Bryan Brown and Greta Scacchi, both pictured) back on the road for its second season. This time, the travelling companions are on the hunt for answers about Jack’s past, hoping to clear his name and remove a dark cloud hanging over his career. As they travel through Queensland together, solving mysteries from town to town, the pair’s relationship is put to the test. Tonight’s premiere brings them into the orbit of brothers Doug (Martin Sacks) and Ellory (Gary Sweet), at war over their family farm.
FRIDAY, March 14
MONDAY
SAM PANG TONIGHT
TEN, 8.40pm
“Channel 10 rejected my pitch to reboot The Golden Girls,” quips Sam Pang (pictured) about his latest project. The mind boggles when it comes to a re-imagining of the iconic sitcom – would the Paying Attention? mainstay play the wisecracking Sophia or the nononsense Dorothy? All jokes aside, Pang is reviving another classic format, the tonight show, something not seen on network TV for more than a decade. Over the next eight weeks, viewers can expect Monday nights to contain a razor-sharp monologue from the two-time Logies host, as well as local and international guests. Bolstered by a witty team that includes Seats’ Tim McDonald, you won’t want to miss this.
WEDNESDAY AUSTRALIA: AN UNOFFICIAL HISTORY
Diving through the National Film and Sound Archive’s stash of government films, made to record Australia’s emerging culture in the 1970s, screen legend Jacki
Weaver (pictured)
has uncovered a treasure trove of a time capsule in this docuseries full of gloriously daggy scenes but also radical social change. This third and final part focuses on Film Australia’s later years and a turn towards more diverse filmmaking as women, Indigenous creatives and gay activists took control of how their own stories were told. Journalist Jan Fran, comedian Zoë Coombs Marr and several of the films’ original subjects are among those who weigh in on these fascinating glimpses into ’70s society and how it shaped our own.
Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
Rage. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (M) 8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (Ma, R) 9.25 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead. (PG) 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 A Body That Works. (Premiere, Ma) 11.50 Sisi. (MA15+ds, R) 12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 6. 2.45 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (PGaw, R) 3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (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. Johanna Griggs meets up with Annie Smithers.
8.30 MOVIE: The Green Mile. (1999, MA15+av, R) An elderly man recalls his time as a prison guard where he befriended a man with an unusual gift. Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, David Morse.
12.10 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Penrith Panthers versus Sydney Roosters match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Tango & Cash. (1989, Mlv, R) Two cops serve time in jail after being framed. Sylvester Stallone.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Fish Forever. (PGl, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
ONTHEBOX
SATURDAY, March 15
TV (2)
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky.
9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) 1.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 2.00 Under The Vines. (R) 2.45 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.40 The Role Of A Lifetime. (PGns, R) 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (Final, PG, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Australian Story: Hooked – Dave Hughes. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Wheelbarrow Way, QLD. (PG, R) Joe O’Brien heads to Far North Queensland.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) Neville investigates a crypto-related death.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) Vera is drawn into a mystery that brings her closer to her estranged family than she would like.
10.00 The Newsreader. (Final, Ml, R) Dale and Helen turn to each other for support. 11.00 Unforgotten. (Final, Mal, R)
11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.05 The Autistic Gardener. (R) 10.00 The World From Above. (PG, R) 11.00 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Surf Life Saving. Surf Life Saving Interstates. H’lights. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men. H’lights. 4.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 4.35 Light Years: Olive Cotton. (R) 5.30 Hitler: Decoding A Dictator.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. 8.30 Blenheim: The People Behind The Palace. (Premiere)
9.25 Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye. (PGa, R) 10.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 7. 1.25 All Those Things We Never Said. (Ml, R)
2.40 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 3.35 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Shaolin
Soccer. (2001, PG, Cantonese) 8.10 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 10.00 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 12.10pm Healing. (2014, M) 2.20 On The Waterfront. (1954, PG) 4.20 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 6.20 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 8.30 Mystic River. (2003, MA15+) 11.10 Shame. (2011, MA15+) 1am The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 3.50 Late Programs.
SUNDAY,
TV (2)
March 16
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s Adriatic Gardens. (Final, R) 3.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (PG, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.05 A Dog’s World With Tony Armstrong. (R)
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Darby And Joan. (Return, PGa) Jack and Joan encounter two warring brothers.
8.20 Unforgotten. (Return, Madl) A new case begins for Jess and Sunny’s team.
9.05 Boat Story. (Premiere, MA15+alv) Two strangers discover cocaine on a boat.
10.05 MOVIE: The Turning. (2013, MA15+al, R)
1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kiri And Lou. 5.45 Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.20 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
(3)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Swan Football. (R) 1.00 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Round 5. 4.00 Yachting. Vendee Globe. H’lights. 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. H’lights. 5.30 Hitler: Decoding A Dictator. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. (PG)
8.25 Alhambra: At The Crossroads Of Cultures. 9.30 King Tut: Allies And Enemies. (PGa, R)
10.30 Death In The Tower: King Richard. (Mav, R)
11.30 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 1.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 8.
3.30 Love Your Garden. (PGal, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Coolmore Classic and Peter Young Stakes. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
7.30 MOVIE: RED. (2010, Mlv, R) Bruce Willis.
9.45 MOVIE: Atomic Blonde. (2017, MA15+lsv, R) An MI6 agent investigates an agent’s murder. Charlize Theron. 12.05 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 1.05 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
7TWO (62)
Mastermind. 4.05 News. 4.10 WorldWatch. 6.05 Our Law. 6.40 Engineering Tomorrow. (Premiere) 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Fatboy Slim: Right Here Right Now. 10.10 Hudson & Rex. 11.50 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm Figure Skating. 1.45 Fringes. 2.45 Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 WWE Legends. 11.45 MOVIE: The Meaning Of Hitler. (2020, M) 1.25am Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.30
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.10 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 8.20 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 10.35 We’re All Going To The World’s Fair. (2021, M) 12.10pm French Exit. (2020, M) 2.15 Selkie. (2000, PG) 3.55 Shaolin Soccer. (2001, PG, Cantonese) 6.00 The Natural. (1984, PG) 8.30 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 10.55 So Damn Easy Going. (2022, M, Swedish) 12.35am My Little Sister. (2020, MA15+, German) 2.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. (R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Hybrid Horizons. 2.00 The Pet Rescuers.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 5. Queensland Reds v NSW Waratahs.
7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple disagree on whether to leave Coburg North. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Matlock. (PGadl, R) Olympia and Julian clash while representing opposing parties. Matty manipulates the firm’s security system for personal gain.
10.30 Elsbeth. (PGv, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am Morning Programs. Noon The 4WD Adventure Show. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. National Drag Racing Championship. Round 2. New Year Nitro. 4.00 Carnage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Sydney v Brisbane Lions. 9.00 MOVIE: Total Recall. (1990) 11.25 Late
6am Children’s Programs. 1.05pm Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. Qatar 1812 km. H’lights. 2.15 Inside The Superbrands. 3.15 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 4.15 Young Sheldon. 5.45 MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel. (2009) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum: Battle Of The Smithsonian. (2009, PG) 9.40 MOVIE: The Beverly Hillbillies. (1993) 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. (Premiere) 2.30 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PGa, R) 3.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl) 8.10 The Hunters: Rentakill. (M) A look at hit man Christopher Dale Flannery. 9.40 Ivan Milat: Buried Secrets. (MA15+av, R) 11.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights. 12.10 The Bay. (Malv, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.40 9News Late.
10.10 See No Evil: The Wrong Woman. (MA15+av)
11.10 The First 48. (Ma) 12.00 World’s Greatest Transportation Marvels. (PG, R) 1.00 Destination WA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
(51) BOLD (51) 9GEM (82) 9GEM (82)
The Fugitive. (1993, M) 11.10 Late Programs.
(34) 7MATE (64)
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 Australian Survivor. (PGl) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia. 8.30 Matlock. (PGad) An important class-action lawsuit leads the team to investigate a sorority. Matty brings Alfie with her to work. 9.30 FBI. (Masv) The team races to find a human trafficking victim after their sting operation goes sideways. Maggie makes a connection with a 911 operator. 11.30
7MATE (64)
6am Children’s Programs. 1.15pm MOVIE: Combat Wombat. (2020, PG) 3.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 4.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: The LEGO Ninjago Movie. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Shazam! Fury Of The Gods. (2023, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Fast Five. (2011,
ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
ONTHEBOX
MONDAY, March 17
6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.15
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lisbon With Michael Portillo. (Premiere, PGv) Michael Portillo journeys to Lisbon, Portugal.
8.25 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (PGav)
9.20 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Syndrome E. (Malv)
11.45 The Night Manager. (Malsv, R)
1.55 Elizabeth. (PGa, R)
3.40 Ancient Invisible Cities. (PG, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
8.40 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Return, M) An armoured truck heist is carried out.
9.40 Suits L.A. (M) Ted and Erica try to save Lester’s movie.
10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 St. Denis Medical. (PGa) 12.10 Miniseries: Hatton Garden. (Ml, R) 2.30 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 100% Footy. (M) 10.00 9News Late.
10.30 The Life And Murder Of Nicole Brown Simpson. (Ma)
11.30 First On Scene. (Ma)
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Australian Survivor. (PGl) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.
Sam Pang Tonight. (Premiere, Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the
9.40 Anne Edmonds: Why Is My Bag All Wet? (Mls, R) 11.10 10’s Late News. 11.35 The Project. (R) 12.35 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6am The Natural. Continued. (1984, PG) 7.30 Selkie. (2000, PG) 9.10 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 11.10 Gloria Bell. (2018, M) 1.05pm So Damn Easy Going. (2022, M, Swedish) 2.45 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 4.55 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. (2009, PG) 6.35 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 8.30 Michael Collins. (1996, MA15+) 11.00 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 12.50am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 18
Cook, Eat, Repeat. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Widows’ Peak. Continued. (1994, PG) 6.55 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 8.50 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. (2009, PG) 10.30 Nordic By Nature. (2021, M, Faroese) 11.50 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 2.15pm The Natural. (1984, PG) 4.45 Walking On Sunshine. (2014, PG) 6.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.30 Michael Clayton. (2007, MA15+) 10.40 Joe Bell. (2020, M) 12.20am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Motor Racing. Night
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 The Hunting Party. (M)
9.40 The Irrational. (Mav) Renee seeks Alec’s help. 10.40 The Agenda Setters. 11.40 St. Denis Medical. (PGals) 12.10 The Great Diamond Heist. (PGa, R) 1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
FAMILY (22)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
ONTHEBOX
WEDNESDAY, March 19
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Australia: An Unofficial History. (Mals)
8.40 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Mal) The juries retire to decide their verdicts.
9.35 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+av)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Blackwater. (MA15+as)
12.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Mn, R)
3.30 Ancient Invisible Cities. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. Continued. (2009, PG) 6.40 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.35 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 11.30 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 1.15pm As Needed. (2018, M, Italian) 3.00 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 4.55 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 6.50 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 8.30 There Will Be Blood. (2007, M) 11.20 Good Time. (2017, MA15+) 1.15am Late Programs.
THURSDAY,
March 20
PG, R) 2.55 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.05 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Back Roads. (Final, PG)
8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (Final, PG) 9.15 Grand Designs Revisited. (R) 10.05 The Role Of A Lifetime. (Final, PGan, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.10 The Business. (R)
11.25 Darby And Joan. (PGa, R)
12.15 Grand Designs. (Ml, R) 1.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG)
8.30 Super Ships: A Revolution At Sea. Looks at how cruise lines launch new liners.
9.35 Boiling Point. (Mal)
10.45 SBS World News Late.
11.15 Breaking Point. (Premiere, MA15+a)
12.05 Blackport. (Mls, R)
2.45 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PGa, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am The Man Who Invented Christmas. Continued. (2017, PG) 6.55 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 8.35 Walking On Sunshine. (2014, PG) 10.25 Joe Bell. (2020, M) 12.05pm Beyond The Summit. (2022, M, Spanish) 1.40 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 3.35 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 6.25 Diana. (2013, PG) 8.30 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 10.30 Mystic Pizza. (1988, M) 12.30am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (Ma) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Live At The Chapel: Birds Of Tokyo. (Ml)
11.00 Autopsy USA. (Ma)
12.00 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)
2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 Scrublands. (MA15+lv)
10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.00 9News Late.
The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
My Way. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
Today. 6.00 NBN
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG)
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PGa) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
9.45 The Amazing Race. (PG)
11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)
12.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
Or
SUNDAY 23 MARCH 11AM |
Friday, 14 March 2025
By Aiden BURGESS
ANIKA Learoyd stepped up when it mattered most for her state.
The Corindi Beach cricketer earned Player of the Match honours for the NSW Breakers in their 21-run win against the Queensland Fire, during the Women's National Cricket League (WNCL) final at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.
The 22-year-old top scored for NSW with a knock of 80 which was pivotal in her side scoring 215 after opening the batting.
The Breakers bowled out Queensland for 194 to win CONTINUED Page 33
