Coffs Coast News Of The Area 15 March 2024

Coast Woman of the Year Falak Othman (second from left) with her proud family. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

Falak Othman named IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year

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fourteen, Falak learnt the language in a year.

“My message for young people is to never give up, even if you don’t know how to read or write,” Falak told NOTA.

“It's easy to do anything you want,” she said.

“It’s never impossible, it’s never too late, you can do it by being helped by the support of your friends and family.”

Falak is now fluent in Arabic, Kurdish, English and Turkish, which she said helps her immensely when interacting with multicultural patients at the local hospital.

She even speaks a little Chinese and German, utilising language skills that date back many years.

As a child, she translated for others with UNICEF in Iraq for three years during the war in the Middle East - supporting people suffering from trauma.

These language skills coupled with her

empathy have forged her path towards helping others professionally.

Falak is set to start her midwifery course at Southern Cross University in July.

Flanked by her parents and sister after the award announcement, Falak was streamed live through their phones to family back home.

“We are from the Yazidi nationals which is a rare community, a very small number,” she told NOTA.

“My parents are very proud of me today.

“Hopefully I will be a good role model for women and young people.”

Heather Duncan was named runner up in the IWD Woman of the Year award.

A local rugby league powerhouse, Heather plays with the Gumbaynggirr Coffs Coast Raidettes and is passionate about bringing more women and girls into the sport.

“What I do is rugby league for women and girls in our community and that’s what I’ll keep doing,” she said.

Heather is a strong advocate for the mental health benefits of sport.

“Sport is the best thing that we have for

wellbeing.

“It brings people together, the kids love it and it causes happiness,” she said.

Heather said he was inspired by Friday’s IWD event, which was the first she had attended.

“I’ve absolutely loved being a part of this and it’s inspiring seeing all the women here and learning all the great things women are doing in the community,” she said.

Rachelle Stevens won the Southern Cross University (SCU) International Women’s Day scholarship.

The fourth year student at SCU is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary), specialising in Science and Technology.

“This scholarship means a lot to me as I have my final unpaid placement coming up soon and this will definitely ease the financial burden of that and just allow me to focus on my studies,” said Rachelle.

“I’m extremely honoured and it’s an incredible experience as the turnout today was inspiring.

“You can feel the support in the room.”

q Award nominee Tegan Baker with her Police colleagues. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Award nominee and LGBTIQ+ advocate Robyn Dever and supporters. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Guest speaker Melissa Harvie, an elite coach and skydiver. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Master of Ceremonies Lily Isobella. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Award nominee Glynis Kirby, a Surf Lifesaver who initiated an all-women ‘Pink Patrol’. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Southern Cross University IWD scholarship recipient Rachelle Stevens. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year award runner up Heather Duncan (centre). Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Lifeline North Coast’s Angela Martin (in pink) enjoying the IWD event. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

q Woman of the Year finalists Robyn Dever, Tegan Baker, Glynis Kirby, Heather Duncan, Falak Othman and Angela Martin with Joanne Vines of One Agency Coffs Harbour. Photo: Mad Love Photography.

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In making the announcement, Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said Carol was awarded the prestigious honour in recognition of her significant work and leadership to actively support her local community over many years.

“Carol is well known for her extraordinary commitment and ongoing contribution to the betterment of the Ulong and Lowanna communities,” Mr Singh said.

“She is able to bring people together and harness their energies to help make

a positive difference in the delivery of services on the Eastern Dorrigo, most particularly the Ulong Health Hub and other vital programs.”

Carol told News Of The Area she felt humbled by the award.

“I accept not only on behalf of myself, but of all our wonderful ladies from the mountain,” she said.

“What an amazing bunch of women they are - strong, vulnerable, brave, resilient, kind and so giving - each one special with their own story to tell.”

Carol attended the International Woman of the

Year awards ceremony for NSW at Darling Harbour in Sydney on Thursday 7 March.

“It was certainly a moment in my life I won’t forget, and for that I would like to humbly thank Mr Gurmesh Singh MP.

“To be given the opportunity of not only meeting the Governor of NSW for a photo - not quite a selfie - but to engage in conversation with her about our tiny mountain villages of Ulong and Lowanna and what we are achieving here, was inspiring.

“What a woman that lady is.”

Carol, who comes from a line of inspirational women,

Police divers recover body of missing swimmer in Dorrigo

resurface.

Emergency services were called to Dangar Falls on Coramba Road about 5pm on Sunday 10 March 2024, when a 31-year-old man failed to

Officers attached to Coffs-Clarence Police District commenced a search, assisted by State Emergency Service members, but were unable to find the man.

including divers from the Marine Area Command’s Dive Unit, who located the man’s body about 1.50pm.

A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

The search resumed on Monday 11 March 2024,

encouraged others to follow their dreams.

“I grew up the seventh child in a family of eight, where the only money you had came from what you earned,” she said.

“My mother was a very loving and caring woman

who encouraged her three daughters to be whatever they dreamed of.

“My eldest sister is a nursing unit manager of a cardiac ICU, my other sister a powerful and strong business woman in the fashion field, and myself a teacher, now

“Never stop trying to achieve what you know is right in your heart, whatever that may be, there is always an answer, you just need to find it, and you will."

q Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, NSW Governor Margaret Beazley and 2024 Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year Carol Cleary at the NSW Women of the Year Awards in Sydney.

POLICE divers have recovered the body of a man who went missing while swimming at Dorrigo on Sunday.

Local Woman of the Year.

Bellingen told to back up on ticketless parking fines

By Mike HELY

BELLINGEN Shire Council is one of 48 NSW local government areas that have been told to review their parking fine systems to meet community expectations.

The Council has accepted the decree but called on the State Government to work with it, before proposing a one-size-fits-all solution.

NSW Finance Minister Courtney Houssos has written to Bellingen Shire and 47 other councils that issue ticketless parking finesincluding Nambucca Valley Council - asking

them to "address shortcomings in their approach".

Ms Houssos has also written to the 80 councils that do not issue ticketless parking fines, telling them they cannot sign up to the system while Revenue NSW undertakes "more consultation".

The ticketless fine system began as a trial in May 2020 by the former Coalition Government, before being expanded to more councils in December 2020.

Some have labelled it sneaky and unfair due to the difficulty of disputing a ticket, with

notification often arriving weeks after an alleged offence.

The system allows issuing authorities to send details of a fine directly to Revenue NSW, which then sends an infringement notice by post or to the Service NSW app. In most cases the driver has no idea they have received a ticket.

In her letter, Ms Houssos said she was aware of community concerns around the issuing of ticketless parking fines, "particularly the timeliness of fine notifications".

“I am requesting your council enhances your parking fine process so that drivers are provided immediate, written notification at the time they are issued with a parking fine,”

she said.

“This is currently not a requirement of the scheme.

“This could be as simple as a note, which could take the form of a standardised, preprinted card, noting that a fine has been issued.”

Ms Houssos said such a change would ensure drivers knew they had been booked by a parking officer upon returning to their car.

It would also ensure they could capture evidence - including photos and details of where they parked - so they could more easily have the fine reviewed, if required.

“The current implementation of the ticketless parking system has eroded trust in the parking fine system,” Ms Houssos said.

“Providing immediate notification to drivers is the right thing to do and is an important first step to restoring community trust in the administration of the fines system.”

Bellingen Shire Council’s 2022-23 Annual Financial Statements report income of $131,000 from parking fines, a significant jump from the $36,000 reported in 2021-22, $75,000 in 2020-21, and $103,000 in 2019-20.

Bellingen Shire Council General Manager Mark Griffioen said the Council had used ticketless parking fines for about two years.

“Our decision to implement ticketless parking fines stemmed from Council’s commitment to workplace health and safety,” Mr Griffioen said.

“Traditional ticketing processes exposed our rangers to unacceptable levels of abuse, necessitating a safer approach.

“With the adoption of a ticketless system, we’ve successfully mitigated this risk whilst enhancing operational efficiency, which is critical for smaller local government areas with constrained resources.

“We would request that the State Government engage local councils, in particular regional councils, for a chance to express our challenges around staff resourcing and safety before proposing a one-size-fits-all solution that will have a direct operational impact.”

He said Bellingen Shire Council remained open to suggestions for “further improving compliance-related processes” as it continues to “prioritise staff safety and community expectations”.

Touch Football Australia doublesdown on Coffs Harbour

SIGNED, sealed and soon to be delivered - the City of Coffs Harbour has secured the rights to host the Touch Football National Youth Cup (NYC) for the next three years.

The event - which attracts thousands of people in players, families, spectators and officials - has long been held in Queensland.

But there will be a change of scene in September when the NYC carnival rolls into

the C.ex Coffs International Stadium as part of a hosting contract which runs through to the 2026 event.

“This is great news for Coffs Harbour – another national event at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium where magic happens and champions play,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos said.

“As well as bringing economic growth into the City, the NYC will generate goodwill and memories as the young players and their families undoubtedly enjoy all that Coffs Harbour has to offer. Given the age of the players at this event, they will be accompanied in many cases by a support group of parents, grandparents and siblings.

“The City’s stadium is up there with the very best in regional Australia and has become highly sought after as a venue of choice for regional, state and national events.”

Cr Amos caught up with Touch Football Australia CEO Jamie O’Connor on Sunday night at the presentations for the Championships, which were run at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium across the weekend.

The three-day tournament for adult athletes saw a record 165 teams in action, cementing a bond between City of Coffs Harbour and Touch Football Australia which will be further strengthened by the 2024 DoorDash National Youth Championships.

“Coffs has long been the

q Touch Football Australia CEO Jamie O’Connor and City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Cr Paul Amos at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, which will host the National Youth Championships for the next three years.

spiritual home of our senior championships, where some of the best players in the world have delivered so many great moments.

“We're delighted to bring the NYC to Coffs and give our youth players the chance to follow in the footsteps of some

of their idols," Mr O'Connor said.

"The recent facility upgrades, accommodation options and accessibility make Coffs Harbour a terrific location for a tournament the size and scale of the NYC.

“It is an ideal place for

Expert says biosecurity levy fails pub test

By Mike HELY

THE Federal Government’s proposed $50 million Biosecurity Protection Levy fails the ‘pub test’, says Trevor Ranford, an Australian Biosecurity Award winner in 2022.

Mr Ranford, a leading horticulture industry advocate with more than 46 years experience, said despite widespread criticisms from the industry and independent experts, the Government was “blindly proceeding with this unfair tax on farmers”.

He said the Government was introducing the Biosecurity Protection Levy to balance its biosecurity budget.

The levy will affect

about 85,000 domestic agricultural, fisheries and forestry producers and is due to commence on 1 July 2024.

It will collect around $50

million a year, equivalent to six per cent (on an annual basis) of the total Australian Government biosecurity funding in 2024-25.

Mr Ranford said

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt wanted to fund the Government’s “normal commitments” to biosecurity - including at borders - by forcing the new levy on primary producers.

He said the Government had ignored a steady stream of advice against the proposed levy.

This included 50 agricultural industry organisations writing to the Prime Minister to reject the levy, and numerous industry bodies denied requests for a ‘hold on the tax’ to allow discussions about alternatives.

“There is a significant and growing body of evidence to show that this biosecurity tax will not make good policy and fails the good old Australian pub test,” Mr Ranford said.

“The industry is ready to assist with the redevelopment of this policy when the Minister decides he

families to come for the touch and stay to see all that the Mid North Coast has to offer."

The 2024 DoorDash National Youth Championships will be staged at the stadium from 25-28 September.

is ready to listen.”

National Farmers Federation President David Jochinke said the levy had attracted "a tidal wave of expert criticism".

“Everyone from the Productivity Commission to the Australian National University and the Freight and Trade Alliance has labelled this policy a dud,” Mr Jochinke said.

“It makes zero economic sense.”

He said industry stakeholders were cynical about the motivation behind the Government’s recent decision to establish a Sustainable Biosecurity Funding Advisory Panel.

“It’s pretty clear that this panel is being tacked on at the eleventh hour to try and give the levy some credibility,” Mr Jochinke said.

“All it’s done is demonstrate the continued shambles this process has become – with stakeholders yet to receive formal invites, or any detail on the panel’s scope and role.”

q Trevor Ranford receives his 2022 Australian Biosecurity Award from Australian Agriculture Minister Murray Watt.

Heating planned for outdoor pool

By Andrea FERRARI

UPGRADE plans for the Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Pool include the installation of a heat pump capable of bringing the temperature of the outdoor pool up to 27 degrees celsius.

The project has been funded by the City of Coffs Harbour ($200,000) and a grant from the NSW Government’s Stronger

Country Communities Fund ($797,308).

The 50-metre Olympic pool is expected to be operational in July.

During the works there will be some short-term disruption, with public parking restricted in the area between the pool and Fitzroy Oval.

A traffic control plan will be in effect for about three weeks from the start of work on Monday 18 March.

The laneway adjacent to the doctor’s surgery will be blocked off from 19-22 April to enable underground cabling for the transformer.

The 25-metre pool was improved late last year, getting a replacement heat pump that also delivers a temperature of 27 degrees.

The upgrade will result in an extended swimming season at the War Memorial facility, which will flow through to programs such as learn-to-swim, squad training, therapy sessions and aqua fitness.

The expanded window for the Olympic pool will also take the pressure off the indoor 25-metre pool in the traditional ‘off-season’.

Hardwood

q A heat pump will be able to deliver a temperature of 27 degrees celsius in the Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Pool.

New ageing strategy for North Coast

By Andrea FERRARI

LIVING well for longer, rather than achieving a grand old age, is key to the Healthy Ageing Strategy developed by Healthy North Coast.

The Strategy was launched at The Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living in Coffs Harbour on Monday 4 March.

Developed in consultation with the community, aged care industry stakeholders, and primary and acute care clinicians, the Strategy focuses on wellness, independence and

enablement.

The North Coast region of NSW faces unique challenges and opportunities due to an ageing population.

Currently, 138,000 or 25 percent of people between Port Macquarie and the Tweed are aged 65 or over.

This compares to sixteen percent Australia-wide.

Additionally, 30 percent of the North Coast population is expected to be over 65 by 2030, and the number of people over 85 will almost double in the next 20 years.

Attending the presentation at The

Shoreline, Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said that as our population ages, the demand on the healthcare system grows, impacting people being able to easily access the services they need, and placing a strain on healthcare resources.

“People are living longer, but not necessarily healthier,” Ms Wheeler said.

“We want to shift the focus to improving health now so that people might live the best life they can irrespective of their age.

“Healthy ageing is a

journey that begins at birth.

“As we live longer, we need to ensure all our living years have choice, dignity and control.”

The Strategy was developed with the vision to help people on the North Coast live well, age well, and have ongoing opportunities to contribute and stay connected to their communities and country.

It contains a number of key initiatives, many of which are already underway on the North Coast.

These include digital health within residential aged care, the North Coast Care Finders Program, aged care disaster management planning and the Greater Choice at Home Palliative Care program.

Owen Lednor, Clinical Project Consultant at The Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living in Coffs Harbour, enthusiastically welcomed the Healthy Ageing Strategy.

“Ensuring our residents have access to the right kind of primary healthcare has

been a challenge in the past, but now we’re seeing a lot of enthusiasm and uptake on digital telehealth services,” he said at the launch event.

“This new technology allows our residents to avoid unnecessary hospital visits and to get the healthcare they need while remaining comfortable at home.

“It’s great to see a focus on digital health technology in the Healthy Ageing Strategy, so that some of those barriers to healthcare might be removed.”

q Healthy North Coast’s Judy Bartholomew and Monika Wheeler, Northern NSW Local Health District’s Elayne Mitchell, Healthy North Coast’s Jo Winwood, and The Shoreline's Owen Lednor and Brooke.

q Healthy North Coast’s Vanessa Gee, Jo Winwood and Judy Bartholomew.

CITY OF COFFS HARBOUR

Notice Pursuant to Section 715(1)(b) Local Government Act 1993

Sale of Land for Unpaid Rates and Charges

NOTICE is hereby given to the persons named hereunder, that the CITY OF COFFS HARBOUR has resolved, in pursuance of Section 713 of the Local Government Act 1993, to sell the land described hereunder (of which the person(s) named hereunder appear to be the owner(s) or in which they appear to have an interest) and on which the amount of rates and charges stated in each case as at 06 March 2024 is due:

In default of payment to the Council of the amount stated in column (e) above and any other rates (including extra charges) becoming due and payable after publication of this notice, or an arrangement satisfactory to the Council for payment of all such rates and charges being entered into by the rateable person before the time fixed for the sale, the said land will be offered for sale by public auction by One Agency Coffs Harbour on 24 May 2024 commencing 10am at Level 1, Hub2 Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park (adjacent to C.ex Coffs International Stadium), located at Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.

Occupancy of dwellings unknown. Vacant possession is the responsibility of the purchaser.

Natalia Cowley, General Manager, City of Coffs Harbour, Locked Bag 155, COFFS HARBOUR, NSW, 2450

Coffs recertified as an ECO Destination

CITY of Coffs Harbour’s recertification as an ECO Destination has been granted by Ecotourism Australia, a celebration of Coffs Harbour’s commitment to providing visitor experiences with low environmental impacts.

When Coffs Harbour became NSW’s first accredited ECO Destination in late 2021, it became only the second place in Australia to be so honoured, along with Port Douglas in Far North Queensland.

Gaining recertification reflects the City’s determination to evolve,

grow and improve in the responsible tourism space.

“This reaffirms that we are on track in a continuing journey,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos said.

“We are a ‘Place of Plenty’ –boasting NSW’s oldest marine park through to world class forests and national parks and the unique experience of Muttonbird Island which is a significant place for Gumbaynggirr people.”

Ecotourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism industry worldwide, attracting ‘high value’ visitors who have elevated expectations and are likely to spend more and stay longer.

“Ecotourism Australia is pleased to confirm the re-certification of ECO Destination Coffs Coast following its recent audit,” Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said.

“Regular auditing ensures the destination remains compliant with its certification and provides an opportunity

for continuous improvement to keep up to date with the latest global sustainability standards.

"The ongoing commitment from the City of Coffs Harbour to uphold these standards is to be commended and we are pleased to continue to support the region on its sustainability journey.”

Coffs Harbour’s status as an ECO Destination has been bolstered by a growing number of local businesses who have embraced the ideal.

When the Coffs Coast first gained ECO Destination certification, only a few businesses or experiences were recognised as ‘Eco champions’.

Today, that list has grown to ten, with a handful of others currently going through their own certification process.

“As the only place in Australia where the Great Dividing Range touches the sea, we have a unique offering of nature experiences,” City of Coffs Harbour General

Manager Natalia Cowley said.

“Quite frankly, Coffs is built different.

“Certification positions us as a world leader in sustainable tourism and links us with a global network of like-minded destinations all

dedicated to best practice.”

One of Coffs Harbour’s shining lights has been the development of the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk – a fourday trek skirting the Pacific Ocean.

The local buffet of

Ecotourism certified businesses includes stand-up paddleboard tours led by Aboriginal guides, a zipline experience through the treetops, eco-stays in the Orara Valley, kayaking, diving and surfing in the Solitary Islands Marine Park and a rainforest oasis in the heart of the City at the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden.

Big investment needed for social housing solution

HOMELESSNESS NSW is urging the state government to spend $1 billion each year for a decade to double the supply of social housing by 2050.

Homelessness NSW CEO Dominique Rowe said the state must build 5,000 dwellings annually to lift NSW’s share of social housing from one in 20 to one in ten homes.

“NSW has failed to invest in social housing for decades.

“Last year, just onefifth of people seeking help from homelessness services could find long-term accommodation,” she said.

“Our ability to give NSW’s most vulnerable communities a roof over their heads is falling while housing stress and

homelessness soar. “Right now, many of the 57,000 households on the social housing waitlist are forced to wait up to a decade for a safe and stable place to call home.

“Investing in social housing will not only save lives but pay dividends by easing pressure on health, community and justice services in the long run.”

In its budget submission, Homelessness NSW warns frontline services risked staff cuts and closure without a 20 percent funding boost.

“Underfunded frontline providers are being flooded with calls for help and forced to turn away one in every two people who need accommodation.

“Services will be unable

to keep staff on or their doors open without more funding,” Ms Rowe said.

“Even for people who get through the door, help is limited.

“Half of those who need temporary or crisis accommodation cannot access it.

“That means women and children are forced to return to violent partners, seek shelter in a vehicle, on a couch or the street.”

Homelessness NSW is calling for $30 million over three years to provide more temporary accommodation and ensure one-fifth was reserved for women and children experiencing domestic violence.

It also urged the government to develop

a dedicated approach to ending homelessness among Aboriginal communities, arguing 30 percent of social housing stock should be allocated to Indigenous Australians.

“It is unacceptable that we have failed to reduce the rate of homelessness among Aboriginal people who account for a third of those receiving help from frontline services in NSW,” Ms Rowe said.

“The solutions must be led by Aboriginal people and investment is needed in Aboriginal organisations and across the whole sector to support this work.”

Homelessness NSW are also calling for a 20 percent funding boost for specialist homelessness services, or $64 million a year for two years.

NSW Minister for

Housing Rose Jackson said the data featured in the pre-Budget submission from Homelessness NSW was “heartbreaking, but not surprising”.

“It paints a clear picture of the direct impact of the lack of housing affordability on homelessness,” she said.

“The cost-of-living crisis is hitting hard, and we (the NSW Government) hear the calls to do more to support vulnerable people across NSW.

“In the lead up to the budget I will continue to advocate for more resources and funding to bolster support for housing and homelessness support across the state.

“Confronting the housing crisis is a key priority for the NSW Government, and we are actively exploring every opportunity to build more

homes and improve support services for people facing housing stress.”

While Ms Jackson did not comment on specific plans for addressing homelessness among Aboriginal communities, she said the NSW Government was committed to “a housing first approach”.

“That means building homes across our state and investing in crucial homelessness support services,” she said.

“The creation of Homes NSW, bringing together the housing and homelessness work of the Department of Communities and Justice with the Land, Housing Corporation and the Aboriginal Housing Office, will streamline support for residents, work to actively address homelessness and bolstering housing security for those in need, particularly Indigenous Australians.”

q Solitary Island Marine Park.

Talented ballerinas rewarded with trip to Australian Ballet

By Andrea FERRARI

TWO local Harbour

Performing Art Centre (HPAC) ballerinas recently attended ballet performances in Sydney thanks to Patron Mark Hardy.

Dedicated to providing young ballerinas the opportunity to see ballet at its highest level, the tickets are provided to students who are selected by the Principal and teachers of HPAC in recognition of their strong work ethic.

The two successful ballerinas, Jennie Casper and Ella Rose Gould, were accompanied by their mothers on the trip; Jennie to see Alice in Wonderland and Ella to see Cinderella.

“When I first got a glimpse of the tickets on stage at C.ex I was hoping that one was for me,” Jennie told NOTA.

“When my name was

read out, I was thrilled - I was the winner to see Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney performed by the Australian Ballet.”

The ten-hour long rail journey to Sydney for the show was Jennie’s first time on a train.

“My mother decided to take the train to Sydney instead of driving,” she said.

“This was a first for me as I had never stepped foot on a train before, as we live in a country area.”

After a jam-packed day spent shopping, Jennie and

her mother finally laid eyes on the historic Capitol Theatre.

“It was very old and beautiful,” Jennie said.

“There was even a candy bar in the theatre that sold yummy lollies just like at the movies.”

Jennie quickly found herself immersed in the magic of live ballet.

“Act one was amazing.

“It was about a variety of people, not just Alice.

“The costumes were beautiful and there was a live orchestra down under the stage.

“The ballet dances were amazing.”

Not even an injury to a lead character could spoil the atmosphere.

“Alice’s turns were spot on, it didn’t seem like anyone had noticed she had injured herself,” she said.

“It wasn’t until the interval that David Hallberg, the Artistic Director, came on stage and announced that a last-minute cast change had to be made due to the injury.

“A ballerina in a nearby hotel got the call up.

“The show must go on.”

After the show came to a close, more shopping in

the CBD was followed by an excursion to Chinatown.

“Let me tell you it was an experience,” Jennie said.

“I was just understanding trains and then became a city girl.

“I am very grateful I won the tickets to the ballet.

“I wish I could do it again.”

Ella Rose Gould, who is the stepdaughter of Australian National Ballet Company member Kit Thompson, was thrilled to attend Cinderella.

“In December I had the opportunity to watch the Australian Ballet’s Storytime Ballet performance of

she said.

“From the choreography by David McAllister to Sergei Prokofieve’s Cinderella composition, the ballet was fun, interactive, and overall an entertaining experience.

“The dancers showcased exceptional technique, artistry, and stage craft - very much inspiring for younger generations.

“The ballet is perfect for younger children or any ballet lovers out there,” Ellie said.

Cinderella featuring the rising talent from the Australian Ballet School,”

q Harbour Performing Art Centre ballerina Jennie Casper won a trip to Sydney to see Alice in Wonderland performed by the Australian Ballet.

q Harbour Performing Art Centre ballerina Ella Rose Gould attended the Australian Ballet’s Cinderella in Sydney.

Celebrate the light

By Andrea FERRARI

CELEBRATING the 144th anniversary of the South Solitary Island lighthouse first operating, the Friends of South Solitary Island Lighthouse have combined with the City of Coffs Harbour to officially open and turn on the Chance Brothers ‘optic’ once more.

Formerly located on South Solitary Island, the historic optic will be lit on Friday March 15 from 6:30pm at a community event held on the Jetty Foreshores at the head of the Jetty.

The community is invited to come along and celebrate this historic event marking 144 years since the lighthouse commenced operating on March 15, 1880.

The optic has undergone extensive conservation and restoration and is now

installed in the Jetty precinct.

Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos will officially open the optic, which will be lit for a short time to celebrate the light’s new home.

q Come to the Jetty on Friday evening to see the historic Chance Brothers optic lit up for its 144th anniversary.

The Friends of South Solitary Island Lighthouse have arranged a poetry reading of the Robert Louis Stevenson poem, ‘The Light Keeper’.

q South Solitary Island Lighthouse began operating on March 15 1880.

Several former lighthouse keepers and residents of South Solitary Island will be on hand to see the light shine again.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh will deliver a message from the Minister for Lands and Property, the department that provided

the funding for the optic and the Vendetta community building.

The community is invited to join in and step back in time to marvel at this magnificent piece of 19th century workmanship operating once again.

The South Solitary

Island Lighthouse optic conservation and relocation project was supported by the NSW Government though a community building initiative, with input from City of Coffs Harbour staff and members of the Friends of South Solitary Island Lighthouse.

Voices 4 Cowper is listening again

By Andrew VIVIAN

VOICES 4 Cowper is active again with a federal election having to be held before the end of next year.

The group was established in 2019 by sixteen locals who came together with a shared desire for a more meaningful connection between the voters of the electorate of Cowper and the elected representatives.

“We know that a key aspect of being well-represented is the chance to have your say about issues and to have your voices heard,” said Amy Hodson, Co-Chair of Voices 4 Cowper.

“That is why we are holding Kitchen Table Conversations, and will soon host meet and greet events, and be surveying the community at key local events.

“Cowper is a diverse electorate, stretching from Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie and west into the hinterland, with large towns

and small villages, and people from all walks of life.

“Whether your family has lived here for millennia, for generations, or moved here in the past decade, we all treasure living here and care about what will happen in the future.”

Voices 4 Cowper is inviting the community of Cowper to participate in its 2024 Listening Campaign.

It consists primarily of ‘Kitchen Table Conversations’, designed to create a safe and inclusive space for community members to share their concerns, hopes and visions for the place where they live and work, and to connect with others from their community.

Lyndley McColl, a retired nurse and business owner from Urunga, said, “I decided to host a conversation in my home because I think a strong democracy needs ordinary people speaking out and being heard.

“Spending two hours with a small group of people, having discussions about

things that matter to us now and in the future, was a rare and precious opportunity.”

At the end of the Listening Campaign, Voices 4 Cowper will release a report that summarises the results of the listening and share it with the community and with elected representatives.

It will also be provided to

all candidates in the lead up to the next federal election to inform them about the priorities and concerns of the voters of Cowper.

“After our listening campaign of 2019, our supporters asked us to identify an independent candidate to represent the community of Cowper,” Ms

Hodson said.

“The results of the 2022 Federal election showed us that the community wanted someone who prioritised their own community above party interests.

“Our Listening Campaign also asks people what makes for good representation and how they feel about their

current representation.”

Information about Kitchen Table Conversations can be found at https:// voices4cowper.org/.

Voices 4 Cowper will also be at markets and around the community over the next few months inviting people to share their views via a short survey.

q The Kitchen Table Conversations allow Cowper residents to share their concerns. Photo: Voices for Cowper.

Eisteddfod names performance partner

By Andrea FERRARI

THE COFFS Harbour Eisteddfod Society has proudly announced an important new partnership with the Coffs Harbour Education Campus (CHEC) for 2024.

The CHEC consists of the Coffs Harbour Senior College,

Southern Cross University and TAFE NSW.

As venue partner, the CHEC will provide unparalleled support for the vocal, drama, dance and instrumental disciplines, enabling access to state-ofthe-art facilities.

The partnership enhances the quality, reach

of the events, and reinforces the CHEC’s commitment to supporting the community.

“Having this support will allow Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod to be sustainable and to be able to continue with supporting our performing arts students, teachers and businesses,” Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod Society President

Debbie Waters told News Of The Area.

The Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod has a long history of supporting students who have continued with their chosen performing arts career after competing at their local Eisteddfod.

“We are proud to be part of their performing arts ride, and to welcome back former dance competitors to present workshops with local students.

“It is wonderful to see students returning to their hometown mentoring and inspiring current students

and sharing what they have learned and experienced within their career and training.

“It’s rewarding for the teachers and inspiring for our current students to see where their predecessors are now, and to see what can be achieved.”

A number of Coffs Harbour performers are now forging international careers.

Having trained with Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance in London, Lily Potger is now with the Australasian Dance Collective.

Max Jones is a professional member of Ballett Zürich in Switzerland after attending the National College of Dance in Newcastle, then the Joffrey Ballet School in Chicago and Queensland Ballet.

Kit Thompson is performing with Australian Ballet.

Former CHEC student Ellie Waters has just completed a performing contract with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines in Alaska.

Several Harbour Performing Arts Centre students and Coffs Eisteddfod performers have presented workshops back in their former dance school.

Hannah Joseph (Contemporary Dance) attended the Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional year, where she gained an advanced diploma.

Ella Gould (Classical Ballet) studied for three years with Queensland Ballet and is finishing her training with the Tanya Pearson Academy, while Molly Horseman (Hip Hop) has been teaching for four years including coaching at Australian National University and the University of New South Wales.

Molly has also danced in a hip hop crew with Movement Nation in Sydney.

According to Debbie, the body of experience these former students can share, and the inspiration they evoke in the youngsters, is priceless.

“It’s so encouraging to see our talented former students continue within the Performing Arts and using Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod for part of their journey and learning pathways.”

Looking ahead to Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod 2024, Debbie said, “Our Choirs, Drama, Vocal, Dance and Vocal disciplines are all currently open for entries, as is our Community National Character category, where we are hoping cultural performers from the community will take this opportunity to perform.”

Entries for the Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod 2024 close on Sunday 31 March 2024, visit www. coffseisteddfod.org.au.

q Ella Gould, who studied for three years with Queensland Ballet, returned to Harbour Performing Arts Centre to present workshops.

q Coffs Eisteddfod competitor Hanna Joseph, who attended the Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional year, with Harbour Performing Arts Centre students.

q Former Coffs Harbour Education Campus student Ellie Waters at the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines headquarters in Miami, USA.

q A local Eisteddfod performer from a young age, Max Jones is now a company dancer with Ballett Zürich.

Whale Trail work to begin

CONSTRUCTION on the long-awaited and anticipated ‘Whale Trail’ footpath for Woolgoolga is set to begin next week.

The Whale Trail will connect the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve with the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.

City of Coffs Harbour (Council) have also resolved that the Whale Trail footpath will now be 1.8 metres wide instead of 1.5 metres.

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos said the

project will provide access to a “stunning and popular” part of the coastline.

The $1.1 million project is in the final design stage and residents may notice City of Coffs Harbour staff ‘pegging out’ the route at the Woolgoolga Headland ahead of the construction start date of 18 March.

“The topography of the headland has made this a challenging project but extensive community consultation has landed

the final design in the best possible place for the enjoyment of all,” City of Coffs Harbour City Infrastructure Director Andrew Beswick said.

The project will include a concrete footpath, elevated boardwalks, car parking, kerbing, seating and lookouts.

The Whale Trail project - supported by the City of Coffs Harbour and a NSW Government grant - is due to be completed by the end of June.

Coffs City Rotary celebrates International Women's Day

By Andrea FERRARI

COFFS City Rotary celebrated International Women’s Day with an all-female team running the club’s meeting for the day.

Coffs City Rotary President Bob Carle welcomed the visitors and guests and then handed over to ‘stand-in’ President Alison Worldon who ran the meeting.

Guest speaker was visiting Coffs Daybreak Rotary Club President Marilyn Brien, who spoke about being a ‘Woman

in the Workplace’.

Marilyn spoke of her experiences working in the largely male dominated business world of leadership, communication, productivity, sales and people management.

“Marilyn gave an inspiring talk about the fabulous experiences she had as a woman working in today’s world,” Bob told News Of The Area.

The Club’s guests on the day included members’ partners and Rotary Zone District Governor Robyn

Norton.

“It was an entertaining event with members’ partners and other lady members helping out presenting Rotary and thanksgiving toasts and even a Lady Corporal to dish out fun fines,” said Bob.

“There were many questions for our speaker.

“All round it was a great celebration for the special International Women’s Day for 2024.”

Bob closed the meeting, thanking the ladies for their participation and assistance and commented on building the celebration for an even bigger event next year.

q Coffs Daybreak Rotary Club President Marilyn Brien, Rotary Zone District Governor Robyn Norton, Coffs City Rotary members Alison Worldon, Tiga Cross and Rhiannon Beck and member’s wife Madeleine Wardman.

City Orchestra play for seniors

By Andrea FERRARI

SENIORS will be treated to Coffs Harbour City Orchestra’s first event for 2024.

It’s live, it’s outdoors in the Botanic Garden and it’s a free community concert to celebrate Seniors Week.

“We have booked the performance shell at the North Coast Regional Botanic Gardens Coffs Harbour for an afternoon concert on Sunday 24 March at 2pm,” Coffs Harbour City Orchestra

spokesperson Cathie McIntyre told News Of The Area.

“The coffee cart will be operating and people can enjoy a wide selection of music; classical, modern and inspiring.

“Many people bring chairs, picnic rugs and some snacks to enjoy the wonderful garden surroundings and the orchestral music,” she said.

The orchestra has organised a warm-up concert the day before, on Saturday 23 March, for the residents

and guests of Marian Grove Retirement Village.

As the multi-talented musicians make the most of their skills, several of the orchestra members who are also in the Coffs Harbour Regional Brass Band will be performing at C.ex on the morning of the Seniors Concert in the gardens.

This event is the Sergeant Matthew Locke Concert, held annually as a fundraising event, with The Army Band as the main act.

“It’s always a well-

supported event.

“The Governor-General David Hurley and his wife are often in attendance,” said Cathie.

There’s been anticipation in the air during rehearsals, with the orchestra back in performance mode after finishing its concert series for 2023 on a high.

Female force at Korora VIEW

By Andrea FERRARI

RETIRED NSW Police officer Sue Anne Bytheway was guest speaker at Korora VIEW Club’s International Women’s Day celebration on

Tuesday 5 March.

The VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) Club proved the perfect audience for Sue Anne’s stories of her time spent on the force, which spanned more than 30 years, beginning in the early 1970s.

“The variety of work, and sometimes the horror of it, along with some funny anecdotes enthralled and entertained everyone,” Korora

“Sue Anne is a very good friend of many years of our Vice President Dana Stokes, who highly recommended her as a suitable speaker for International Women’s Day.

“We are very lucky and very glad that she was able to come and join us.”

Sue Anne joined the NSW Police Force in 1974, attending Redfern Academy before receiving her first posting.

She held badge number 207, being one of the very early females on the force.

The dress code was very strict in the early days.

Women had to wear skirts, gloves and stockings; hair had to be two inches above the collar.

“Females received a stocking allowance and some of the men were disgruntled because they didn’t receive a sock allowance,” she shared.

The members are keen to kick off another year of highquality musical performance around Coffs Harbour.

“The weather at Sawtell Surf Club for our Community Carols in December was perfect for our end-of-year event.

“We had a large audience sitting on chairs and rugs

with a picnic meal, a visit from Santa and some wonderful sing-along carols led by John and Ursula.

“Before you know it, it’s almost Easter and we’re in Seniors Week already, all the more opportunities for the orchestra to play,” said Cathie.

“Uniforms later changed to culottes (divided skirts) and eventually to trousers in the late 1970s when women were fully integrated into the Police Force.”

Sue Anne received postings in and around Sydney and south NSW, involving work assisting with assaulted women and missing children, escorting juvenile offenders to court and searching female

prisoners.

She was also appointed to a task force investigating cheating on poker machines.

“Our members thoroughly enjoyed Sue Anne’s talk and were interested to know how the males received the first females to enter their profession,” said Dianne.

“Some male officers felt unsafe with women around, especially in brawls; however,

they were always treated with respect,” said Sue Anne.

Dana Stokes thanked Sue Anne and presented her with a VIEW pen, a pretty posey and a Certificate of Appreciation.

VIEW is a network of around 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia.

It provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social

activities and develop lasting friendships, all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

VIEW is the largest community sponsor of the charity’s Learning for Life program, which provides students with financial, educational and personal support.

q Coffs Harbour City Orchestra plays Seniors Week at the Botanic Gardens.

q City Orchestra’s end-of-year Carols concert at Sawtell Surf Club.

VIEW Club President Dianne McLeod told News Of The Area.

q Retired NSW Police officer Sue Anne Bytheway was guest speaker at Korora VIEW Club’s International Women’s Day event.

Planning for one’s passing

By Andrea FERRARI

UNDER the auspices of the National Advance Care Planning Week (18-24 March), Dr Max Brinsmead is heading up a full morning of information sessions around planning for one’s passing.

Taking place on Wednesday 20 March from 9:30am to 12:00 noon in the CWA rooms at 3 Dalley St, Coffs Harbour, everyone is welcome to the free, information-focused event.

“Let’s face it, anyone can die or experience an accident or event at any time that renders them incapable of making or communicating their preferences,” Dr Max Brinsmead told News Of The Area.

“There are a few things that need to be put in place but also a range of options about which we need to be aware.

“It’s a good idea for everyone’s sake to be prepared.

“The emphasis throughout is a practical

demonstration about how to access the resources, services and people that assist in these tasks,” he said.

The aim is to provide information and advice to people of all ages about their choices and options in preparation for the end of life.

"Talking about our endof-life planning may feel difficult for some.

“In the environment of providing practical support we encourage anyone who may be curious or interested to come along to our welcoming event,” said Max.

Judy Jackson, one of presenters for the Choices in Later Life (ChiLL) event, told NOTA, “I am only too happy to start the conversation for CWA members during National Advance Care Planning Week.

“Advance care planning is an important first step in ensuring a person's preferences for future care are known and respected.

“Being prepared and having the conversation with loved ones is one of the

kindest things you can do, so if you need some prompts and tips, start by reading the Advance Care Planning website page on ‘starting the

conversation’.”

Judy said all participants will leave with useful resources to start their preparedness journey.

National medal awarded to Marine Rescue stalwart

By Andrea FERRARI

ON MARCH 8, Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour awarded Graeme King with a National Medal for nearly three decades of commitment to the service.

Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan presented the medal recognising Graeme's outstanding 28 years of volunteer service keeping people safe on our waterways.

Grame joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol in 1996, which later became Marine Rescue, and served as Unit Commander for eight years.

He remains an active rescue boat crew member and radio operator today.

Receiving the award,

Graeme said his boat crew duties had involved assisting many and varied vessels, “from 20 metre yachts and motor cruisers down to an inflatable flamingo and everything in between”.

“Generally, the crews

on board distressed vessels were pleased to welcome and cooperate with our rescue vessel crew to achieve safe outcomes,” he said.

Graeme recalled that on one occasion the skipper of the distressed vessel asked

Session 1 begins the program with a presentation on ‘Being Prepared –Advanced Care Directives, Power of Attorney and Guardianship’.

This is followed by ‘Voluntary Assisted Dying in NSW’ and ‘What is Capacity’ presented by Judy Jackson and Max Brinsmead.

Session 2 covers palliative care, the services available and what happens when you die, presented by Palliative Care Nurse Leesa Hoysted, followed by Heather-Maree Hinton explaining what

a death doula is and the services that can be provided.

The closing session looks at choices around funeral planning and celebrations of a life, presented by Civil Celebrant Betsy White.

For more information contact Ros Hopwood, Coffs CWA, at Roshopwood123@ gmail.com or phone 0414

764 156.

For more information visit www.advancecareplanning. org.au/understand-advancecare-planning/starting-theconversation.

the rescue vessel to stand clear when they arrived to allow his young offsider to deal with his ‘first real fish’.

“After ten minutes a large cobia was duly landed and the assistance required was

then delivered and the assist completed.

“Everybody happy and safe,” said Graeme.

Five-year long service medals were also awarded to coxswain Paul McLeod

and radio operator Peter Babbage.

Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour crews will be on the water on Saturday 23 March providing assistance to the Pittwater to Coffs yacht race.

q Choices in Later Life attendees at Ingenia in Woolgoolga.

q Boambee East attendees at the Choices in Later Life (ChiLL) presentation.

q Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan, Marine Rescue National Medal recipient Graeme King, Marine Rescue five-year long service award recipients Peter Babbage and Paul McLeod with Unit Commander Jane Leach, Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour’s Don Stewart and Zone Commander North MRNSW Darren Hulm.

q Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan presents the Marine Rescue National Medal to Graeme King.

Award-winning film sheds light on Palestinian history

AN award-winning film highlighting the history of conflict in Palestine will be screened in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen next week.

The powerful documentary, filmed recently in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Israel by Australian film makers John Reynolds and Jill Hickson, ‘depicts Palestinian life under military occupation’ and sets out the aspirations of Palestinians for selfdetermination.

‘Palestine Under Siege’ seeks to explain the background to the history

of Palestinian displacement and dispossession through a series of interviews with survivors of the 1948 Nakba, and with prominent Palestinian and Israeli leaders.

They include Dr Hanan Ashrawi, a Palestinian politician and winner of the 2003 Australia Peace Prize, and Jeff Halper, Director of the Israel Committee Against Home Demolitions.

The film is being promoted locally by the Bellingen and Nambucca District Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) group.

“Many RAR groups around Australia have been campaigning for months for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza,” group spokesperson Mike Griffin explained.

“History tells us that violence does not solve the problems of the world. “Instead, it leads to unbelievable suffering and the displacement of millions of people.

“If there is to be peace in the Middle East, then there has to be a just settlement for the Palestinian people.”

The film will be shown at the Bellingen Memorial Hall

at 7.00 pm on Wednesday 20 March, and at the Cavanbah Centre, Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour on Saturday 23

Sawtell Rotary bounces into local schools

By Andrea FERRARI

ONE hundred basketballs have been donated to eight local schools through the Rotary Club of Sawtell’s Youth Program.

The bag-fulls of basketballs have been distributed between

Boambee, Sawtell, Bonville, William Bayldon and Toormina Public Schools, Toormina High, Coffs Harbour Christian Community School and the Coffs Harbour PCYC.

The balls were gifted to the Rotary Club of Sawtell by Highgrove Bathrooms, whose owner/director Rod Baldock

serves as Community Service Director at the club.

Rod and co-owner/ director Charles Calderon have been donating basketballs to the local schools and communities since the Coffs Harbour store opened in 2020.

“We are proud co-owners

March at 7.30 pm.

There will be a Q and A session following the screenings.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at https://linktr. ee/rarmnc or by phoning 6569 5419.

and locals of Coffs Harbour, and believe it is important to support and engage with the community, particularly for our youth, encouraging them to play sport, form great relationships and gain confidence within a sporting and cultural environment,”

said Rod.

Rotary Club of Sawtell’s Youth Director, Alan Freedman told News Of The Area, “The idea for distributing the balls to students is to get them outside and play instead of sitting inside on their computers etc.

“Ball playing in schools and at home is still very popular so this should be an encouragement to them.

“All schools were very appreciative indeed when we made the deliveries this week,” he said last month.

q Sawtell Rotary Youth Director Alan Freedman, Boambee Public School Principal Phillip Maunder and Highgrove Bathrooms Director Rod Baldock with students Jack Wales, Jordan Foster and Jordy Schley.

q ‘Palestine Under Siege’ seeks to explain the background to the history of Palestinian displacement and dispossession.

A focus on domestic and family violence

By Mary KEILY

LIFELINE’S DV-Alert program was in action over two days in Bellingen last week, focusing on the prevention, early intervention and response to domestic and family violence (DFV).

The program is funded through the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children.

Lifeline Australia has been delivering DV-Alert training since 2007, enabling frontline workers and community members to understand the complexities of DFV.

“One in three women have experienced physical violence since the age of fifteen, one in five has experienced sexual violence, on average a woman is killed by their intimate partner every ten days, and

it’s mostly males who are the perpetrators,” Tegan McVey, Training and Administration Co-ordinator at Lifeline North Coast told NOTA.

“It (DFV) costs us $26 billion dollars a year and it's something that could be prevented.”

The workshop facilitators, Liz Yazbek and Ellen McNulty, explained the often complex nature of DFV, highlighting

that signs of abuse are not always easy to recognise.

The workshop also covered coercive control.

From July 2024, coercive control will be a criminal offence in NSW, described as when a person uses abusive behaviours towards a current or former intimate partner with the intention to coerce or control them.

“Lifeline has financial counsellors who would probably see that, yet the public don’t,” said Tegan.

“It’s either power and control in holding the finance over the woman or using it in other harmful tactics as in gambling as well.”

As a first priority, workshop participants were encouraged to always listen to the person in need.

“Then you can see what’s safe for them because they are the experts in what is safe,” said Tegan.

“Sometimes calling the police can escalate matters.

“Just believing the person if they disclose validates their experience.”

Phoning Lifeline or 1800 RESPECT call also be a stepping stone to help.

“RESPECT do an intake basis and work with that person on a case and transfer

Clontarf Academy join clean up

By Andrea FERRARI

ORARA High Clontarf Academy students made an add-on to their regular physical training in support of Clean Up Australia Day.

Joined by City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos, the boys donned gloves and picked up rubbish around Jetty Beach.

Orara High Clontarf Academy Director Warwick Jones told News Of The Area, “It was great to see our boys from Orara Clontarf Academy enjoying a Clean Up Australia Day activity, alongside Coffs Harbour Mayor Mr Paul Amos and other community members.

“It was such a positive experience for the boys, with a lot of community members making comments about what a great thing they were doing.”

Warwick said events like these do so much more

than simply contribute to the cleanliness of the environment.

“The boys should be very proud of themselves.

“After such a great morning the boys got the opportunity to cool off in the ocean then enjoy a bacon and egg roll before heading back to school for roll call.”

The Clontarf Academy exists to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and by doing so equips them to participate more meaningfully in society.

Clontarf mentors and counsels students on a range of behavioural and lifestyle issues while the school caters for their education needs.

Any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander male enrolled at Orara High School is eligible to participate in the Clontarf Academy.

Through supportive relationships and environment, the boys develop improved selfesteem and confidence which enables them to participate in education, employment and society in a more positive way.

to a counsellor and work out the best way to help them,” said Tegan.

“The biggest reason for them going back is if there is no support network - no family, friends, no people to

go and talk with, who they can stay with and be safe with.”

In the next financial year, more workshops are coming to the Nambucca and Bellingen Shires.

q Orara High Clontarf Academy boys are joined by Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos for their Clean Up Australia Day activity.

q Liz Yazbek and Ellen McNulty, trainers from the Lifeline DV-Alert Program.

q The Bellingen DV-Alert workshop.

q With the clean up done, it was time to jump off the Jetty and have a bit of fun.

q The Orara High Clontarf Academy boys working as a team.

Have a laugh at Flickerfest Sawtell

By Andrea FERRARI

FLICKERFEST 2024 lands in Sawtell on Saturday evening 23 March, presenting its hilarious Short Laughs Comedy program.

“This year’s smorgasbord of incredible comedy short films are handpicked from a record 3,400 entries received for Flickerfest’s Academy,” Festival Director Bronwyn Kidd told News Of The Area.

“Sawtell audiences are amongst the first in Australia to experience the best of Flickerfest on tour, having just premiered in Bondi.”

This is the 33rd year of Flickerfest.

“The Sawtell audience will see twelve clever comedy shorts in the Flickerfest Short Laughs Comedy program, handpicked from at-home and around the world.”

Highlights include clever QLD short ‘The Bank Manager’, based on the true story of a 1932 bank heist, which follows some seriously colourful characters and their shenanigans.

Also on the program is the delightfully quirky Irish short ‘Cantata’ about a man whose life is upended when his only means to communicate is song, and the hilarious UK short

Conservationists to march for local forests

By Andrew VIVIAN

ON SUNDAY March 24 conservationists across the country will show their support for native forests as part of the Bob Brown Foundation’s March for Forests.

Bellingen forest supporters will gather from 9.30am until 1pm at Bellingen Park to listen to a range of speakers from local forest groups, before marching into the town at about 10.30am.

Organisers say they wish to send “a loud message to government” that the logging of native forests should be immediately ceased.

Attendees will then return to the park for more talks, food and music provided by Saije and Benelong Carrol.

Dean Kelly will provide a Welcome to Country and speakers, including representatives from local conservation groups and Mid North Coast ecologists, will provide updates about what has been happening in local forests.

Food and drinks, including coffee, will be available.

‘Linda’ by comedian Joe Lycett about a woman whose tall tales, colourful life and friend Winston the Walrus all seem too good to be true. Homegrown and laughout-loud comedy ‘Room For One More’ is also hitting the screen, where two ex-flatmates confront the awkward truth of their relationship, as well as the joyful and unexpected French animation ‘Spoon’.

“We’re looking for more volunteers who could give a couple of hours to the important cause as there are a few jobs to do to ensure a safe, fun and effective event,” local organiser Kaz Selbie said.

To register as a volunteer please visit https://form.jotform.com/Selbie/volunteersavenativeforests24324

For more information, visit https:// marchforforests.org/event/gumbaynggirr country-bellingen/ or check out the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/ events/926597649125812.

q Delightfully quirky Irish film ‘Cantata’ - when a man finds his only way of communicating is by song.

United Hospital Auxiliary volunteers celebrated

By Andrea FERRARI

TIRELESS volunteers dedicating hours of their time to the United Hospital Auxiliary (UHA) were thanked and rewarded for their work at the UHA NSW North Eastern Regional Forum on Monday 4 March.

Dorrigo UHA hosted the highly anticipated meeting welcoming more than 40 dedicated volunteers from across the region representing the almost-400 UHA volunteers serving in

Mid North Coast hospitals from Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie and west to Dorrigo.

In the past financial year alone, the volunteers have collectively contributed more than 60,000 hours of service to their respective hospitals, embodying the spirit of community and selflessness.

Their efforts also resulted in remarkable donations totalling $457,885.01, buying essential hospital equipment that enhances patient care

and comfort.

Exemplifying their devotion to the UHA role are two local volunteers who were recognised at the forum with 20-year service badges - Dorrigo UHA members Sandra McGuire and Shirley Tyson.

With the gathering of like-minded individuals committed to making a difference in healthcare delivery, the forum saw the volunteers exchanging insights, sharing ideas and fostering friendships.

"This gathering underscores the invaluable contributions of our volunteers and the collective strength of our Auxiliary branches," said Lizzy Bennett, President of the Dorrigo UHA.

past 90 years attests to the calibre of these treasures.

"Their dedication and generosity resonate deeply within our communities, embodying the essence of compassion and kindness."

Speaking at the forum, UHA State President Sally Cronberger congratulated the region’s volunteers on a stellar year.

“The branch members’ dedication and selfless giving of their time is nothing short of amazing,” Ms Cronberger said.

“The support UHA members have given their local health facilities over the

“I take this opportunity to thank Dorrigo branch for hosting the 2024 forum.

“Their hospitality to myself and State Treasurer Dee Hunter is very much appreciated as we realise the organisation that goes into hosting an event such as this.”

Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick acknowledged the volunteers’ outstanding contributions to local public hospitals.

“I would like to say to our 389 UHA members in the Local Health District that

your collective achievements are a testament to your selflessness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to serving others,” he said.

“This significant contribution enhances the quality of care we provide to our patients and ensures our healthcare facilities remain at the forefront of medical excellence.

“Each hour you spend volunteering, each donation you make, is confirmation of your unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of others.”

To volunteer at any of the Mid North Coast’s UHA branches, please email Sharon.fuller1@health.nsw. gov.au.

Wednesday

q Members of the Dorrigo UHA pictured with Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick, Dorrigo Multi Purpose Service Nurse Manager Lynn Forsyth, State Treasurer Dee Hunter, Dorrigo President Lizzy Bennett and State President Sally Cronberger. UHA Life Member Nita McKnight joined the Dorrigo branch in 1957.

q UHA Coffs President Helen Mears with team members June Curry, Heather Hardwick and Val Ide at the United Hospital Auxiliaries of NSW North Eastern Regional Forum in Dorrigo.

q UHA Bellingen President Waveney Ayscough with executive committee members Carol Gibson and Deb Anderson.

q Sandra McGuire, who was Dorrigo branch president for more than ten years, receives her 20-year service badge and a bouquet of locally grown flowers from Dorrigo President Lizzy Bennett.

q Dorrigo UHA President Lizzy Bennett with Shirley Tyson, who was presented her 20-year service badge as a UHA volunteer.

Renovated Exhibition Hall hosts local stallholders

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Made With Love Markets became the first major event to be held in the freshly renovated Exhibition Hall at Coffs Harbour Showground, with local stallholders filling the venue with their home made and hand made goods on a sunny Sunday 3 March.

Alison, who launched the market in 2011, summed up the atmosphere as “fabulous”.

“Local stallholders always amaze me with their talent,” she said.

“We had so many new stallholders come along this time, which means each market has a slightly new flavour to the last and there's always something new and exciting to explore.

“It's always such a fantastic vibe on market day.

“The customers are always so happy and relaxed, wandering around checking out the fantastic goodies and taking home treasures.”

Alison said the newly refurbished hall provided the perfect market setting.

“Love, love, love it,” she said.

“We have the best of both worlds, with around 90 stallholders inside the lovely refurbished new hall, and outside around 40 stallholders spread across the west and northern sides of the hall, and food stallholders.”

Deb Farquhar, who serves on the Coffs Harbour Showground’s board, told NOTA, “The board and management of the Coffs Harbour Showground were

very excited to welcome the Made With Love Markets to the extended and refurbished Exhibition Hall.

“We look forward to a long and successful association.”

Prior to its upgrade, the hall had been unavailable for use for almost two years.

“After being closed since 16 May 2022, we are thrilled with the recommissioning of the Exhibition Hall as it is our largest undercover facility and an excellent asset for the community.

“A wedding with 400 guests on 16 March will be the first in the new extension and we look forward to many more similar activities.

“The new meeting room is another valuable attraction.”

Also new this year, Sunday’s Made With Love Markets had a focus on rubbish management.

Collaborating with Bellingen-based environmental education group OzGREEN, Alison welcomed its Rethink Waste program to the market to talk rubbish to both stallholders and shoppers.

“I loved having Rethink Waste at the event,” said Alison.

“As a market organiser, I am keen to explore all options for the market to have as little environmental impact as possible.

“It was great having the Rethink Waste volunteers there chatting to people and educating market-goers and stallholders on how to sort their waste correctly.

“I learnt that paper

straws can be composted.”

Run by program manager Kathleen Hannah, Rethink Waste is a practical and simple fit with OzGREEN’s vision of changing habits to change the world.

OzGREEN's role involves supporting event managers to rethink their waste management systems by role modelling effective waste streams and educating event patrons about recycling, composting and items destined for landfill.

“Event holders face big challenges with waste,” Kathleen told News Of The Area.

“It can be expensive to process and difficult to sort, with all waste often sent to landfill at the end of an event.” Surprised and delighted by the response from the community, the Rethink team has now had thousands of engaging conversations around waste.

“The majority of people coming to the bins appreciate the guidance we offer on where to put different items.”

Kathleen said while most people want to do the right thing, they may not be equipped with the right information.

“There is a lot of mixed messaging out there and it’s not uncommon for us to answer questions around other tricky items like bottle tops, small electronics and UHT containers.

“44 percent of people attending the markets needed assistance choosing the correct bin,” said Kathleen.

Providing this type of education has successfully diverted hundreds of litres of waste from landfill.

“Empowered with new knowledge, the people

attending these events are able to implement waste changes within their homes and workplaces creating a ripple effect of change, ultimately leading to less

Glen Hodges heads up Coffs Conservatorium

By Andrea FERRARI

GLEN Hodges has accepted the post of Artistic Director of the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium.

Having covered the Christmas period as Acting Artistic Director, Glen fills the esteemed shoes of previous Conservatorium Director Pat Brearley, who resigned late last year.

“As the new Artistic Director of the Conservatorium I am extremely excited to be part of such an iconic institution,” Glen told News Of The Area.

“The Conservatorium obviously has a long history and one that is notable for its consistently high-quality music education and cultural events but also for the evolution and expansion of its programs and facilities.

“The Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium has never stood still, and I hope to continue this proud tradition with new connections to the local community and a broadening of our educational and performance

landfill generated and a greater awareness of finite resources.

“What’s not to love about that?” asked Kathleen.

offerings,” he said.

“The incredibly able Elly Keating has been promoted to the position of Operations Manager to assist with the management of the Conservatorium.”

This year, 2024, marks the 40th birthday of the Coffs Conservatorium, with plans afoot to celebrate the milestone.

“There is going to be a threeday series of cultural and artistic events at the Conservatorium from the 11-13 of October,” said Glen.

Throughout the year, the plan is to have a focus on celebrating the Conservatorium’s rich history of people, programs and places.

“We will also be showcasing our current staff and students and sharing our future vision,” Glen said.

“There will be a range of activities that include an open day, displays, various performances and a gala concert and social event.

“The program will include something for all musical tastes and interests.”

q Made With Love Markets founder Alison Paul welcomed stallholders and market-goers to the Exhibition Hall at the Showground.

q Rethink Waste program manager Kathleen Hannah (centre) with OzGREEN Junior Youth Activities Coordinator Lily Kostka and volunteer Eric Nelson.

q Glen Hodges has been appointed Artistic Director of the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium.

Summer Beach Hop to return this weekend

THE Coffs Coast Summer Beach Hop is on once again this weekend, with a great lineup of entertainment and classic cars organised for three separate events held over Saturday and Sunday.

“First up, we are in the City Centre on Saturday morning from 10.30am with a lively event showcasing some stunning classic cars, music and performances by the Julie Ross Dance crew, Dylan ‘Chachi’ Wigley and The Memphis Two,” said organiser John Logan from John Logan Entertainment.

“The Coffs Coast Derby will be roving around on skates to add colour and fun to the event.”

At this free event, organisers will also be offering ticket giveaways to major Coffs Coast shows.

The event then moves to the Coffs Harbour C.ex Club at 3pm for an indoor performance by The Robertson Brothers, who will perform their award winning 1960s-style TV variety show.

Tickets are available to purchase at the C.ex Club for this event.

On Sunday, all the action is at the Harbourside Markets from 9am.

Enjoy a full market, a large display of classic cars, dance duo Bad Sneakers, Shannon’s Show and Shine, a pop up vintage service station and more.

This event is also free.

On show over the weekend will be close to one 100 cars, some up to 100 years old and many in fully original condition.

Cars are also expected to attend from Yamba, Grafton, Taree, Port Macquarie and all over the Coffs Coast.

For more information, go to www. summerbeachhop.com.au or call JLE on 66 528266 BH.

q A 1959 Buick Electra.

q Dylan ‘Chachie’ Wigley. q A 1929 Buick Roadster.

q A 1969 Mercedes 280S.

Let’s celebrate Coffs Coast seniors

COFFS

part

The two-week event, which officially began on Monday 11 March, aims to recognise the contributions our older generations make.

More than 500,000 people take part in the event in NSW each year, and this year’s theme is ‘Reach Beyond!’.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate seniors in our community.

“Our seniors are such a valued part of our community, and we can’t do enough to thank them for the knowledge and achievements they have passed down through generations,” said Mr Singh, Shadow Minister for Tourism, Emergency Services and the North Coast.

“As part of the two-week festival, there are a range of events across the state including art classes, fitness and live music as well as events that can be accessed online, so you can join in on the fun no matter where you live.

“I encourage everyone to get in touch with their grandparents, parents, friends,

or neighbours and spread the word to make sure all seniors can take advantage of these fantastic two weeks.

“Let’s celebrate our seniors and show them how much we value them, because they deserve it.”

The NSW Seniors Festival has been running for over four decades, providing entertainment and improving our seniors’ quality of life.

The 2024 NSW Seniors Festival will run from Monday, 11 March until Sunday, 24 March.

For more information visit www.nsw.gov. au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival

q Member for Coffs Harbour

Gurmesh Singh during a visit to Coffs Seniors Computer Club in 2022.

Seniors Week

Independence and social connection with Linked to Life

LINKED to Life provides quality aged care services enabling older people living in our local community to remain independent in their own home and remain socially connected.

“We can provide quality care and services to you throughout your ageing journey, from early entry-level care under the Commonwealth Home Support Program, through to higher level complex care with a Home Care Package,” the Linked to Life team said.

“As your care needs change over time, you and your loved ones can feel secure knowing that Linked to Life is there to assist you.

“We specialise in one-to-one services including help with shopping, housekeeping, and assisted transport to appointments, and we also host a wide variety of social group activities including regular bus outings and activities as part of our early entry services.

“As a proud local approved Home Care Package provider – levels 1-4, we can work with you to design a specifically tailored package of services and supports that enhance your lifestyle and further meet

your needs and goals for independent living.”

Linked to Life is proudly supported by a team of qualified care staff and volunteers who work directly with clients. They perform a valuable role in enriching lives and helping with the everyday tasks that most of us take for granted: tasks such as personal care, housekeeping, buying groceries or attending an appointment.

“Call us on 66517 365 or visit our website to find out about our services or ways you can be involved with Linked to Life in a paid or volunteer capacity.”

ADVERTISING

Advertising within the Coffs Coast News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business.

Call Shannon now 00409 228 267 or email shannon@newsofthearea.com.au

Jumpers & Jazz Festival

Thursday 25th to Monday 29th July 2024

Be immersed in Warwick’s quirky and unique Jumpers and Jazz Festival - a 20th Anniversary celebration of all that is wonderful about winter and a kaleidoscope of colour.

Duration: 4 Days & 3 Nights

$1,860 pp twin share

$404 pp single supplement

$225 pp deposit

For more information or to book:

Phone: 02 6583 3330

Email: admin@portbus.com.au

Website: www.portbus.com.au

Book Online: events.humanitix. com/jumpers-n-jazz

Wednesday 12th to Friday 14th June 2024

For more information or to book:

Phone: 02 6583 3330

Email: admin@portbus.com.au

Duration: 3 Days & 2 Nights

$1,158 pp twin share

$1,289 pp single

Website: www.portbus.com.au

Book Online: events.humanitix.com/vivid-24

By Manny WOOD

GLORIA, who was widowed a few years ago, intends to build a selfcontained unit on her son’s property.

She will use her savings to build the ‘granny flat’ and will rely on the Age Pension to meet her living expenses.

She wishes to live in the granny flat for the rest of her life.

Properly documenting Granny Flat arrangements Have you been kind today?

Gloria seeks legal advice and is advised that with a view to minimising the potential for disputes in the future, the arrangement should be documented in writing.

A written agreement will also be useful for Centrelink purposes and necessary for capital gain concessions.

The solicitor takes instructions regarding a range of issues, so that an appropriate Granny Flat Agreement can be prepared.

The payment of the construction and approval costs is addressed.

Gloria’s contribution towards the payment of outgoings, such as utilities, insurance and council rates are considered.

They also discuss the termination of the agreement, whether this is the result of Gloria requiring full-time care, the breakdown of her son’s relationship with his wife, a desire to relocate by either party and whether, if the agreement is terminated, Gloria is entitled to receive compensation and if so, whether this is a lump sum or whether it is determined by way of a formula based on the time that Gloria has occupied the unit.

They discuss whether Gloria should be able to lodge a Caveat over her son’s property to protect her ‘equitable interest’.

The solicitor also takes instructions relating to Gloria’s wishes regarding the unit when she passes-away and the interplay between the Granny Flat Agreement and her Will.

The terms of a suitable Power of Attorney and Appointment of Enduring Guardian are also considered as part of her estate planning generally.

The solicitor advises Gloria that her son should obtain his own legal advice in relation to the proposed arrangement and that she should also take the draft agreement to Centrelink to ensure that it complies with the gifting/deprivation rules.

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 column is only accurate at today’s date and is not legal advice.

DEAR News Of The Area,

ON 21 February, my elderly husband fell while using the escalator at Coffs Harbour Central.

A number of total strangers were kind enough to come to help him.

I would like to thank all those people for their kindness for helping a total stranger.

In particular I must express my gratitude to the lovely lady (I think her name is Lauren) who rang me and told me what had happened, and asked what she could do for

me. She kindly delivered the car keys to my place and then drove me back so I could collect our car.

As I have no family living in the area, that was very much appreciated.

This act of kindness, and the help of all concerned is very much appreciated, and is a reminder that there are still a lot of kind, caring people around.

Do things for people "not because of who they are or what they do in return but because of who you are".

Thank you,

Mrs Lois ELWORTHY, Coffs Coast.

The costs to community and taxpayers of industrial logging

DEAR News Of The Area,

VESTED timber industry interests will always try to cook the books to suit their narrative.

The reality is that as at 30 June 2023 the Forestry Corporation lost about $15 million of our taxes logging our globally significant native forests.

This fact is contained in their annual report.

In losing this precious public money they are sending our Koalas and Greater Gliders and globally significant biota rapidly towards extinction and destroying our water security.

This includes befouling the regional drinking water supply for all municipal residents from Sawtell to Yamba.

The cost to ratepayers to fix this is uphill of $100 million and may not even be possible because of how putrid the rivers have become because of landscapescale industrial logging and the broad-acre poisoning of the landscape (including with nasty chemicals like Simazine banned in other jurisdictions) by this loss-making crown logging company.

The $15 million loss to taxpayers delivered profits to loggers, haulers, millers and the entire retail chain. This is kleptocracy.

Vested interests will also try to deceive with other narratives to suit their profit-taking interests.

The reality is that industrial logging dries

out landscapes, makes fires much more severe and frequent and destroys our water security.

Homes were destroyed at Nymboida in November 2019 because the Forestry Corporation of NSW lit significant lines of fire across the western and north-western Dorrigo Plateau.

This was despite numerous local landholders, multiple local RFS brigade members and any sane folk looking on and asking (and at times demanding) them not to.

They did this because these forests were the driest that they had ever been and it was impossible to extinguish fire in these conditions.

But still Forestry Corp kept lighting fires in a massive arc from Dundurrabin to Ellis, Chaelundi, Boundary Creek and Sheas Nob.

These fires all joined together under a massive westerly wind, became the Liberation Trail mega-fire and did so much harm to these globally significant forests that places such as Hortons Creek are dead to this very day.

Thankfully nobody died.

Our economy and our survival is underpinned by our water security and our safety depends upon the climate stabilising role that our forests play (making it rain and keeping the landscape moist).

The NSW Government (via Forestry

DDEAR Jasminda,

What are the expectations for Easter presents this year?

I just went to the shops for my grandchildren and there are Easter trees, Easter decorations, Easter wreaths, Easter clothes, and on it goes.

Brian W.

Dear Brian,

WREATHS? Trees? Decorations?

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas (feel free to sing in Michael Buble's baritone voice).

It would appear Easter eggs aren't bringing in enough retail dollars, so now we have Easter activity cases and Easter egg wreaths and flocked Easter bunnies made of polyfoam and polyethylene terephthalate, and this little bunny isn't falling for any of it.

The only Easter expectations are the ones you place on yourself, but I can almost guarantee that your grandkids will be far more excited by a challenging mini egg hunt in the backyard than unwrapping bits of plastic wrapped in (you guessed it) bits of plastic.

And no, they don't need egg-hunt grabbers (that look very much like rainbow-coloured poop-scoopers), because most of them have these handy things called hands.

Just make sure you roll the foil wrapping into a fist-sized ball before recycling.

Or perhaps you could suggest that your grandkids join you in handdyeing some eggs or baking some homemade Easter buns.

Yes, I know you can get them straight off the shelves (and have been able to since Christmas), but nothing beats the smell of freshly-baked buns.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Corporation) is going hammer and tongs to industrially log the best parts of the Dorrigo Plateau within the Great Koala National Park whilst they still can, including destroying old growth koala habitats right now in Sheas Nob State Forest between Nymboida and Dundurrabin.

The carnage must stop or further irreparable harm will be done to us all and the Great Koala National Park will have no Koalas in it.

Don’t believe the hype of the vested interests profiting from this harm to us all.

Regards, Mark GRAHAM, Coffs Harbour.

The Coffs Harbour sand pit

DEAR News Of The Area,

WELL before the harbour was constructed it was recognised that sand was being naturally transported south-to-north up the coast.

It was also recognised that construction of the harbour would bring into that harbour some portion of the moving sand.

Many studies of the harbour and the coast have been commissioned over many years.

The general conclusions are these: approximately 75,000 cubic metres of sand is deposited in the harbour each year; that means that a large quantity of sand does not move north and nourish the beaches from the north end of Park Beach up as far north as Look At Me Now headland; finally that the best way to resolve the problem is regular dredging (two to five years from various studies), with the mobile dredge going outside the harbour to deposit the sand back in the pathway north that has existed for eons.

In the Coffs Council meeting of 9/6/22 a motion was passed to write to the NSW authorities to request that the harbour be dredged in a manner similar to that employed 21 years earlier, when just such a dredge and dump process was undertaken successfully.

If you have sighted any progress from a NSW agency resulting from that, please come forward.

What reasons are there for the lack of progress?

It’s not that they can’t get a dredge – this was resolved by the expedient of using the telephone to contact the firm that was here last time, and discussing the job with the owner, including an estimate of cost, and availability.

What of environmental reports that might be required - remembering that the job was done exactly this way now 23 years back, that every report suggests this is the best way to do it, and this is as close as possible to emulating the natural path.

On a couple occasions since the dredge

one-third or 33 percent more than allowed!

was so successfully employed, there have been small dredge-and-pump efforts made to move some sand onto Park Beach.

While the plan was to move the sand well north, the actual events have left the sand piled in front of the surf club, or moved south in storms into the mouth of the creek.

The beaches to the north continue to recede, the harbour to fill with sand.

While not the main issue, the folly of sand and the boat ramp improvements needs to be mentioned.

Some of the earlier studies examined this likely problem, and, again, called for routine dredging along the southern wall of the harbour.

In what must rank near the top of any list of muddled thinking, the solution to the boat ramp sand is now thought to be to pump the sand to the south of the harbour, onto Boambee beach, giving it a chance to go ‘round again!

Sand coming into the harbour from the natural movement northwards is inexorable.

depositing in the ocean north of the harbour is the best response.

Best for the beaches to the north.

Best for seafaring traffic needing a safe harbour, one that they can enter and anchor in.

Best for the boat ramp.

Best for maintaining the commercial fishing industry (imagine having no Fish Coop in town).

Best for all who enjoy the use of the harbour.

Do we have a problem?

Oh yeah, and it is as basic as arithmetic.

75,000m3 X 23 years now, and counting.

Loss of beaches north, loss of depth in the harbour, loss of large boat traffic, and soon, loss of more.

What to do? Well, Council’s resolution has brought little response and no progress on what is a NSW responsibility. Start there, and start now, while we still have a navigable harbour.

Arithmetic, or observation, tells you it won’t last forever.

Regards,

Scott WOLGAMOT, Coffs Harbour.

Why have zoning restrictions if they are not enforced?

DEAR News Of The Area,

I AM writing in regards to the proposed development at 69-73 Ocean Pde, Coffs Harbour (0447/24DA).

This proposal calls for the demolition of separate buildings at 69 Ocean Pde as well as 71-73 Ocean Pde.

Both of the existing structures are twostorey with approximately 20 combined dwellings.

The DA outlines the lots are to be combined so that two, seven-storey buildings can be constructed.

However, the plan calls for an additional rooftop garden, effectively making it an eight-storey structure.

It will contain a total of 80 units with 105 parking spaces.

I would like to offer the following points for consideration:

• A variance to the zoning code is requested to accommodate the structure height of 26.85-metres – a whopping 4.85-meters or 22 percent over the zoning limit of 22-metres!

But don’t forget, the mechanicals and lift shaft on the roof area will far exceed the planned 26.85-metre proposed height.

• A variance to the zoning code is requested to allow 80 units to be built on the site when the code states 60 – a massive

• A variance to the zoning code is requested for the proposed setbacks being out of compliance.

• Clearly, 105 car spaces will be nowhere near enough to support 80 units.

One space for 55 units is not supportable in this day and age, particularly as 24 of these spaces align to a two-bedroom unit.

And of course, the overflow will have no alternative but to park on adjacent streets.

• This area is prone to flooding, yet the proposal calls for a basement car park.

• What about the increased population density associated with these 80 units that replaced approximately 20!

The applicants submission documents include a laborious 74 page ‘Statement of environmental effects’.

In the section titled ‘Introduction’ on page 8 it includes the following points:

• The scale, massing, height, and bulk of the proposed buildings are appropriate for the site and its context and in line with the envisaged character for the area.

This statement alone is so far out of context, it’s almost laughable.

To achieve their stated massing, height and bulk they need significant variances in each scenario.

• The proposal will facilitate the supply and delivery of housing within a desirable location.

This statement suggests it is addressing a housing shortage situation.

Most certainly, Coffs Harbour has issues

along with the rest of the nation, but this development is far from addressing the specific need of affordable housing.

The median price for these units will far exceed the capacity of those looking for affordable housing options.

• The proposal achieves an acceptable visual impact and is appropriately scaled and setback to reduce bulk and dominance.

The proposal will not have any adverse impact on the established character of the area.

Makes for good reading, but how can it be considered accurate with statements like “appropriately scaled and setback to reduce bulk and dominance”?

All require material variances.

As for character, this development overwhelms the area.

• The proposal maintains solar access to the surrounding built and natural environment.

While there is an element of truth in this statement, the surrounding properties will receive much less sunlight than they receive now.

Where is the impact analysis on the reduced sunlight hours, particularly during the winter months, for those properties in the south to southwest quadrant.

The numerous appendices all purport to justify the height variance, increased density allowance, setback variance, environmental impact, road and traffic infrastructure, parking, flood mitigation, etc.

However, common sense tells us, you

Council supporting the people on Jetty Foreshores

DEAR News Of The Area,

FIRSTLY, I am addressing Ann Deans of North Boambee.

Where your passion is to be applauded Ann, you have got it wrong.

Our Council is not in favour of residential development on the railway land at the Jetty.

In fact the Mayor, Paul Amos, and the other five supporting Councillors, are doing everything possible to keep this land as open space for the future enjoyment of our community.

It is State Government that is pushing the short-sighted plan for residential

development, including low cost housing, at the Jetty and ignoring the wishes of the community members who responded against this plan in the surveys and meetings.

Our Council has made an extremely generous offer to the State Government to buy the land for $6.7 million when it is valued at $2. 17 million and offered to also throw in land in the CBD perfectly positioned for low cost housing. Unbelievably, this offer was refused and Council is now seeking compulsory acquisition of the land.

Don’t blame Council Ann, they are doing everything possible for us.

Secondly I would to address the

Dredging it from the harbour and community.

This is an extremely important issue for our City’s future.

It doesn’t matter if you live in the Jetty area or not: get angry.

Residential development on this Jetty land would be a disaster and create further parking and traffic issues.

Access to the area is currently inadequate but nobody is addressing that.

Some of the land in question is a narrow strip running along the railway line, add low cost housing which would have limited or no parking and we will have the slums of the future on what we lovingly call the ‘Jewel in the Crown’.

The more high rise development that is built the more need there is for open recreation space.

cannot pack this many cars and people into an area that once accommodated two-storey buildings with a total of 20 units, and not have an unfavourable impact on the location.

It is simply not plausible.

Even more alarming and of deeper concern is the precedent this will set if approved.

It will establish the new “normal”, and developers will be lining up to purchase whatever properties they can.

In turn, they will submit their own proposals that will no doubt seek variances, as the ‘die will have been cast’.

Where does it stop?

Why bother having zoning restrictions at all if they are not enforced?

We, along with many others in our community, do not want this becoming a Gold Coast look-alike.

None of us spent our hard-earned life savings on our homes to live in that sort of environment.

If we had wanted that we would have purchased there! Many of us moved away from high-density living so the last thing we want is more of it.

I would respectfully ask you to consider these points, and contact your Councillor if you have comments or suggestions.

Sincerely,

Garry P. HEDGES, Coffs Harbour.

Despite any gripes you have with Council on other issues, on this matter we need to show our support and back them any way we can.

Our local State member, who should be working for his community and the people who elected him, is instead towing the party line.

Write to him and the State Ministers responsible - Hon. Ron Hoenig, Minister of Local Government and Hon. Steve Kamper, Minister for Lands and Property - and voice your support for Council and keeping the Jetty area open space. Once this land is gone it is gone forever and we will never get it back.

Regards,

Fran STEPHENSON, Coffs Coast.

Feels like home

The

and depth.

The open plan design will please many buyers, with a low maintenance timber-style flooring

which flows through to the similar coloured tiles in the private screened covered alfresco area-for seamless indoor/outdoor living and entertaining.

The property boasts ducted air conditioning throughout, so the home is comfortable in all weather.

Adjoining this spacious living zone is a beautiful

kitchen where Caesarstone benchtops add a touch of luxury, while the red glass splashback and feature pendant lights in the kitchen affords a touch of drama.

A very practical design means there's space for everything, and the central bench with its waterfall stone benchtop, means that everyone can be involved

in food preparation whilst entertaining.

Another two bedrooms and the main bathroom are located in a separate wing.

Guests will be spoilt with the size of the second bedroom, whilst the third is suitable for a double bedroom or office space.

Both have generous built in robes.

The main bathroom continues the same theme as the ensuite with stunning feature tiles, wall to ceiling tiles, and wall-hung vanity.

Even the laundry is a feature of this homewith direct access to the yard, stone benchtop and generous storage.

This home is approximately seven

minutes to Sawtell beach and is surrounded by other quality newer homes.

This home is perfect for those wanting an as-new property with all the bells and whistles and not a cent to spend.

Agents: Chris Hines (0439 667 719) and Kim McGinty (0432 953 796).

•

Chris

•

14CudgeryStreet(WaterfallWay),Dorrigo

•649.1m2*landarea,540m2*buildingareawith10mfrontageto

•Reception,office&storageroom,kitchenette,bathroom&shower

•Rollerdoorplusofficeentryatfront,tworollerdoorsatrear

•Adaptable&versatilespacesuitableforanumberofuses(STCA)

•Airconditioning,storagearea,kitchen&bathroom

•Allservicesconnected,recentlyrewired

•CentrallylocatedinDorrigo,5*minutestotheWorldHeritageListed DorrigoNationalPark,under1hourtoCoffsHarbour

*approximately

•154m2*characterbuildingwith10m*

•Prominentmainstreetposition

•Exteriorrecentlyrepainted,timberfloors,

•Automaticdoor&accessiblewithsingle levelandnosteptofootpath

•Adjoiningpropertyalsoavailable

14CudgeryStreet(WaterfallWay),

‘Karlyn’,Dorrigo

TheEpitomeofCountryStyle&Living TheEpitomeofCountryStyle&Living

•75.73*acres(30.66ha*),gentlyundulatingwithallusable

•Tastefullyrenovated4bedroom,2bathroommainhome

•Renovated2bedroom,2bathroomselfcontainedcottage •2creekfrontage,2dams,80+inchannualrainfall&abore

•Cattleyardswithnewsteelrace,crush&roundyard,bitumenaccess •6.7km*Dorrigo,30km*Bellingen,44km*Urunga&thecoast, 64km*CoffsHarbour

•Cattlenotincludedbutcanbenegotiatedwithasuccessfulpurchaser

•Adjoining'Allenview'isalsocurrentlyforsalewiththesamevendor

Sale Offersinvited

RoryBirt 0403913527

birtsproperty.com.au

Video,virtualtour &furtherdetailsonline

*approximately

ABlankCanvas-Productive&Picturesque ABlankCanvas-Productive&Picturesque

‘Allenview’,Dorrigo

•98.65*acres(39.94ha*)generallygentlyundulating,majorityusable

•Significantandongoingpastureimprovementandmanagement

•80*inches(2,000mm*)+averageannualrainfall •2.065km*frontagetothepermanent,springfedRockyCreek •Vacantwithbuildingentitlementandmagnificentviews •4bayshed,steelcattleyards,majoritynewfencing •7.9km*Dorrigo,31km*Bellingen,46km*Urunga&thecoast

•Cattlenotincludedbutcanbenegotiatedwithasuccessfulpurchaser •Adjoining'Karlyn'isalsocurrentlyforsalewiththesamevendor

Sale Offersinvited

RoryBirt 0403913527

birtsproperty.com.au

Video,&furtherdetails online

*approximately

Coffs Harbour gears up for annual yacht race

By Andrea FERRARI

HOSTING the Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race finish for the 38th time, the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club (CHYC) is gearing up for a big influx of sailors, supporters and sightseers arriving in the city for the event.

The starting gun fires at 1pm on Friday 22 March at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC).

The East Coast Classic 226-nautical mile, warm water race is open to monohulls, two-handed and multi-hulls.

“This race creates a

great spirit of camaraderie and endeavour,” CHYC Commodore John Wait told News Of The Area.

“Sailors love the challenge of whatever the weather brings and getting the best out of it and their boat.

“Together, over many years of collaborations CHYC and RPAYC have created an anticipated and exciting event for sailors and the local community.”

After crossing the finish line race competitors are escorted into the harbour by CHYC sailing volunteers who are on a 24-hour watch.

“Volunteers escort the

boats to berth or help crew,” Secretary CHYC Sailing Committee Moyra Mendham told NOTA.

“They also help crew exchange for the larger boats who are continuing on to the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.

“They cannot enter Coffs now, as was possible in the past, due to the siltation of the harbour,” she said.

With all hands on deck managing the needs and necessities of the incoming crews, the camaraderie is tangible.

“One of the best bits is efforts being rewarded by

the appreciation of tired and hungry sailors,” Moyra said.

Awards are presented on Sunday afternoon, by which time all competitors are expected to have crossed the finish line.

Club Members, guests and visitors are invited to the CHYC to share in the atmosphere.

“A special cocktail is being created for the weekend plus a Pittwater Platter to aid in the enjoyment of the sail race atmosphere,” Club Director Tammy Mills-Thom told NOTA.

A local CHYC competitor has further fuelled excitement for the local club, with well known and accomplished sail race contender Pierre Gal entering his newly imported

Barney Miller Surf Classic to be held this weekend

By Aiden BURGESS

SURFING for a great cause returns to the waves of Sawtell this weekend for the 24th annual Barney Miller Surf Classic.

The annual fundraiser gets underway on Friday 15 March, with three big days of surfing at Sawtell Main Beach.

The fundraising event is hosted by Barney and Kada Miller and the Sawtell

community, and helps to raise money for people who have suffered spinal cord and lifechanging surfing injuries.

All proceeds from this year’s event will be going to seventeen-year-old Tamsyn

catamaran ‘Fez’.

A race of this size means business for Coffs Harbour.

“Crews and support crews bring an influx to accommodation and restaurants of the city both before and after the race,” said Tammy.

“The race has become

part of the Coffs Harbour community calendar.

“If it ever went away, it would be sorely missed.

“It really does showcase what we are about, a welcoming harbour city with spectacular opportunities for enjoyment of ocean water sports.”

McConnell and her family from Minnie Water on the NSW North Coast.

Tamsyn was a passenger in a life changing motor vehicle accident in September 2022, in which she was ejected from the car and now has severe spinal cord injury as well as a brain injury.

In addition to the surfing competition, a Benefit by the Sea event will be held at the Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club on Saturday night, to help

raise money for Tamsyn.

Last year's event attracted 154 surfers, and had 2500 junior ranking points on offer.

The first day of this year's

competition gets underway on Friday 15 March, with the finals to be held on Sunday 17 March.

Coffs Oztag senior teams to take on state’s best at home

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour Oztag’s senior representative teams are preparing to face the state’s best at home.

The Coffs Harbour Cavaliers teams will be in action during next week's NSW Senior State Championships in Coffs Harbour.

The State Championships will be held over three days on 22-24 March at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.

Coffs Harbour Cavaliers teams will compete in six of the 17 divisions; the Women’s Open, Women’s 27s, Mixed 20s, Mixed Senior, Mixed Open and Men’s Open.

This year’s State Championships will feature 201 teams as they vie for

state titles across seventeen divisions.

Coffs Harbour will join forces with Port Macquarie and play as Mid North Coast teams at this year's Australian Championships in Coffs Harbour in November.

Coffs Harbour Oztag holds weekly competitions, with mixed on Tuesday nights and men’s on Wednesday nights at Geoff King Motors Oval and surrounding fields.

q The Coffs Harbour Cavaliers mixed senior team at last year’s NSW Senior State Championships.

q The team from Andoo celebrating after the 2023 Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race.

q Under 14 boys winner Rio Luther Barr at last year’s Barney Miller Surf Classic. Photo: Kyle Chapman.

Coffs cricket teams earn grand final berths

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS cricket teams have booked their places in this weekend’s Grand Finals with victory in the Preliminary Finals of Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association’s season.

Sawtell earnt a spot in the first grade Grand Final with a five wicket win against the Northern Districts Rebels in their Preliminary Final at

By Andrea FERRARI

Richardson Park.

The Rebels won the toss and elected to bat, and were bowled out for 135 in the 63rd over.

Richie Gallichan had a sensational spell taking 5-33 from 17.4 overs, with fellow Sawtell bowler Will Bailey taking 2-7 from 9 overs, and Flynn Taylor taking 2-32 from 16 overs.

Chasing 136 for a grand final spot, Sawtell reached the target in the 65th over.

Sawtell captain Tyh Murphy top scored with a knock of 45.

Humraj Singh was the pick of the Rebels bowlers taking 2-41 from 25 overs, with Taj Dosanjh taking 2-12 from 11.2 overs.

Coffs Colts earnt a place in the second grade Grand Final with a six wicket win against the Northern Districts Rebels in their Preliminary Final at Woolgoolga.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat, and finished at 9/153 from their 40 overs.

Dave Szumowski had a great knock for the Rebels scoring 78, with Cody Britnell the pick of the Colts bowlers taking 4-51 from 8 overs.

Jake Creenaune took 2-27 from 8 overs, and Peter Creenaune took 2-15 from 4 overs.

Needing 154 for a grand final berth, the Colts chased it down in the 34th over, led home by Troy Britnell on 55 not out.

Jake Creenaune also had a good knock of 41.

Bellingen/Dorrigo earnt their place in the third grade decider with an eight wicket win against Sawtell in their Preliminary Final at

Toormina Oval.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat and were all out for 167 after 40 overs.

Mark Weiley top scored for Sawtell with a knock of 76 off 57 balls.

Lee Bailey was the best of the Bellingen/Dorrigo bowlers taking 4-15 from 8 overs, with Simon Andrews taking 3-44 from 7 overs.

Chasing 168 for a grand final spot, Bellingen/ Dorrigo reached it in the 38th over.

Ross Bailey led home the successful chase finishing on 69 not out, and Scott Llewellyn top scored with 81.

Northern Districts Rebels progressed to the fourth grade Grand Final after a nine wicket win against the Nana Glen Lizards in their Preliminary Final at Nana Glen.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat, and were bowled out for 90 in the 28th over.

James Dean had a top spell for the Rebels taking 3-5 from 3 overs.

Craig Howe took 2-14 from 4.4 overs, and William Jamieson took 2-9 from 3 overs.

The Rebels chased down the total in the 17th over, led home by James Dean on 40 not out from 21 balls.

Medal-winning Masters Khanacross Series gets underway

COMPETING in the Mens

70-74 age category, two local athletes bagged a number of medals at the NSW Masters Athletic Championships held at Sydney Olympic Park on 2-3 March.

Woolgoolga’s Dave

Kennedy was especially successful, winning six gold medals in the high jump, long jump, triple jump, javelin, 80m hurdles and 200m events.

He added two more medals, winning silver in the 60m and 100m sprints.

Coffs Harbour’s Bruce

Meder won gold medals in the 800m and 1500m, with a silver in the 2000m steeplechase.

Bruce told News Of The Area he was excited to discover that he still had a finishing kick at the end of a 800 or 1500m run.

“I always had a good finish when I was younger and it was pleasing to know I still have it 30 or 40 years later."

This was Dave’s seventh NSW championship, whereas for Bruce it was the first major athletic championship he had competed in for over a quarter of a century.

Dave’s wins in the long jump and triple jump presently have him leading the world rankings.

The two athletes compete for the Woolgoolga Athletic Club, which runs weekly athletic evenings during summer for seniors. During winter months, from April to August, the club hosts the very popular Mid North-Coast Cross-Country series at a variety of locations on Sunday mornings.

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour and Districts Sporting Car Club’s 2024 Khanacross Series got underway on the weekend with the opening round of the series.

Fifteen competitors attended with a good mix of cars in the opening round.

A club spokesperson

gave a recap of the opening round.

“For the first few runs of the day the surface was a little slippery after some early morning showers,” they said.

“Competitors in rearwheel-drive cars, in particular, were even more sideways than usual.

“This is not a bad thing

Northern Heat AFL u16s expand skills with BJJ integration

By David WIGLEY

THE Northern Heat AFL representative program for North Coast/North West Under 16s Boys and Girls made an unconventional move by bringing their

athletes from both squads to the facility of Cris Hisa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) Team to train and learn BJJ

with NRL or rugby union.

Northern Heat Head Coach Luke Matthews, who is also a BJJ practitioner, expressed enthusiasm for the players' reception of the BJJ techniques, which emphasise body mechanics and leverage

as in the safe conditions of a Khanacross event, the slippery surfaces are always good to practice car control.

“It was hard to pick who had the most fun on the day, but it would be hard to go past the Jacob family from Kempsey who attended.

“Fifteen-year-old Amelia and twelve-year-old Liam had some good times in the Juniors, and Dad Damien finished second outright.”

The next club event is a Forest Rally to be run on Saturday 20 April.

It will be a round of the Queensland Rally Championship and a round of the NSW Clubman and Hyundai/Kia Series.

There are still some volunteer spots to fill to help the event run.

No previous experience is required.

If you are interested in having a fun day helping out, you can let them know by contacting the club’s social media pages or website, or 0499 358 162.

to control opponents without excessive strength, thereby conserving energy.

"Hopefully, our players can benefit from today's training session," Matthews remarked.

"It was great to see everyone so excited and happy with this unique

experience."

Cris Hisa, a BJJ black belt who led the sessions, shared his perspective.

"Although I am relatively new to AFL, it was gratifying to showcase some of our techniques in hopes of enhancing their game and introducing something new

to their repertoire.

“Most importantly, it was rewarding to witness both boys and girls fully engaged in applying the BJJ systems introduced today.

“I wish them an excellent season ahead and it was a pleasure to have them here learning our craft," Hisa said.

q The North Coast/North West Under 16s AFL Girls.

q Masters athletes Dave Kennedy and Bruce Meder.

q Liam Jacob getting ready for a run with his Dad.

q The North Coast/North West Under 16s AFL Boys.

Finals arrive for Coffs junior cricketers

By Aiden BURGESS

FINALS time has arrived for the Coffs Coast’s junior cricketers, with Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association’s Under 14s and Under 12s semi-finals decided this week, as well as the Under 16s grand final.

Bellingen/Dorrigo and Macksville Bulls will play off in the Under 16s grand final in Dorrigo on Friday.

Minor premiers Bellingen/Dorrigo advanced to the grand final with a nine wicket win against Sawtell Sloggers in their semi-final at Dorrigo.

Sawtell won the toss and elected to bat, scoring 6/79 from 20 overs, with Aiden Bailey taking 2-9 from 2 overs for Bellingen/Dorrigo.

Bellingen/Dorrigo chased down the total in the 13th over, led home by Evan Ryan who finished on 49 not out off 35 balls.

Macksville Bulls also earnt a grand final spot with a 77-run win against the Coffs Colts in their semi-final at Macksville.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat,

posting a top total of 3/172 from 20 overs.

Aston Ramunno top scored for the Bulls retiring on 52 not out off 28 balls, as Riley Symonds also reached his half century retiring on 50 not out.

Harrison Mulhearn took 2-18 from 3 overs for the Colts.

The Bulls restricted the Colts to 5/95 from 20 overs,

Riley Symonds took 2-3 from 2 overs for the Bulls, and Ash Angel took 2-7 from 2 overs.

Harrison Mulhearn top scored for the Colts retiring on 53 not out.

The final round of the Under 14s season was played last week, with the semifinals decided this week.

Nana Glen Lizards had a 59-run win against Sawtell Storm at Toormina Oval.

The Lizards opened the batting and posted 4/143 from their 20 overs.

Manat Singh top scored with a knock of 48 from 26 balls retired not out, with Thomas Craig scoring 39 from 25 balls.

Jaybien Johnson was the pick of the Storm bowlers

taking 3-7 from 3 overs.

The Storm were restricted to 5/84 from 20 overs, with Jaybien Johnson retiring on 22 not out.

Ryder Plumb took 2-8 from 2 overs for the Lizards.

Coffs Colts had a 46-run win against Bellingen Green at Jetty Oval.

The Colts opened the batting and scored 2/124 from their 20 overs.

Josh Graham top scored for the Colts on 41 not out retired off 25 balls, and Charlie Taylor retired not out on 26.

Chasing 125 for victory, Bellingen were restricted to 5/78 from 20 overs.

James Weber was the pick of the Colts bowlers taking 1-3 from 2 overs.

Diggers Cricket Club had a 69-run win against Bellingen Blue at Reg Ryan Oval.

Diggers opened the batting and scored 3/119 from 20 overs.

Diggers captain Jacka Britton smashed 26 runs off 8 balls.

Bellingen were restricted to 7/50 from 20 overs in the run chase, with Alby Butler

taking 2-3 from 2 overs for Diggers.

The Under 14s semifinals were set to feature Nana Glen Lizards and Coffs Colts playing off at Reg Ryan Oval, and Sawtell Strom and Diggers Cricket Club playing off at Toormina Oval.

The final round of the second Under 12s season of the summer was decided last week, as teams vied for semifinal spots.

Northern Districts Rebels Blues finished as minor premiers after a five wicket win against Bellingen Green at Bellingen.

The home side opened the batting and finished at 2/73 from 20 overs, with Kale Morrison taking 1-1 from 2 overs.

The Rebels chased down the total in the 19th over, with Lachlan Barne taking 2-11 from 2.5 overs for Bellingen/Green.

Diggers Cricket Club Red finished second on the ladder after a four wicket win against Coffs Colts at Reg Ryan Oval.

The Colts opened the batting and finished at 7/40 from 15 overs.

Eighteen team extravaganza as Coffs United host Iona

By David WIGLEY

ON Sunday March 10

the football grounds at Forsyth Park, Coffs Harbour witnessed an electrifying showdown as nine teams from Coffs United squared off against nine teams from Iona.

With over 300 players taking part in these preseason trial matches, the event served as an excellent starting point and warm-up for the forthcoming football season set to commence on April 6.

Plans are already underway to expand and enhance the event further in 2025, with the next edition scheduled to take place in Iona.

Coffs City United president Brett Hodgekiss hailed the inaugural edition of the event as a resounding success, drawing widespread acclaim from players and spectators alike.

“We have struck up a great collaboration with Iona Football Club and to see so many players of all ages

enjoying pre-season was a pleasure to watch,” he said.

“It was a carnival atmosphere with plenty of goals and fun.

"At the end of the day the clubs couldn’t be separated, each winning four matches apiece and one draw.

“Players ranging from boys and girls under 12s up to women's seniors added to the inclusivity of the event.

“Paul Stevens, the president of Iona, is a great guy to work with and both clubs are planning to do this

again next year on a grander scale in Port Macquarie.

“The day finished off with senior women, the whole of female football is on the rise and registrations are looking strong for the season to kick off on 6 April,” Hodgekiss said.

q Iona Football Club president Paul Stevens sharing the trophy with Coffs City United president Brett Hodgekiss.

Daniel Martin took 2-2 from 2 overs for Diggers, with Jennifer Martin taking 2-3 from 2 overs.

Diggers reached the target in the 9th over, with Akam Bains having a great spell for Colts taking 2-0 from 1 over.

Nana Glen Lizards finished fourth on the ladder, having a 10-run win against Macksville Bulls White at Nana Glen.

The home side opened the batting and posted 4/71 from 20 overs.

Jack O'Connor top scored retiring on 21 not out, with Geordie Drayton the pick of the Bulls bowlers taking 1-1 from 2 overs.

The Lizards successfully defended their total restricting the Bulls to 7/61 from 20 overs.

Kade White was the pick of the Lizards bowlers taking 2-3 from 2 overs.

Diggers Cricket Club Blue were also winners in the final round, beating the Sawtell Sixers by two runs at Toormina Oval.

Diggers scored 4/63 from 20 overs after opening the batting, Sehaj singh Mahal

top scoring on 20 retired not out.

Lincoln Sawaya took 2-11 from 2 overs for Sawtell.

Sawtell fell just two runs short, finishing at 2/61 after 20 overs.

Macksville Bulls Blue had a 44-run win against Bellingen/Dorrigo at Macksville.

The home side won the toss and elected to bat, scoring 6/129 from 20 overs.

Ark Gillett had a great knock smashing 70 not out off 40 balls.

Finlay Moffatt was the pick of the Bellingen/ Dorrigo bowlers taking 2-13 from 3 overs.

Macksville restricted Bellingen/Dorrigo to 4/85 from 20 overs.

John Bell was the pick of the Bulls bowlers taking 2-6 from 3 overs.

The Under 12s semifinals are set to be decided on Saturday morning.

Minor premiers

Northern Districts Rebels Blues host Nana Glen Lizards at Woolgoolga, and Diggers Cricket Club Red host Bellingen Green at Reg Ryan Oval.

AFL North Coast release fixture list for 2024 season

By Aiden BURGESS

AFL NORTH Coast has released its fixture list for the 2024 senior competition.

Both the men’s and women’s competitions will feature five clubs, after last season’s men’s premiers Byron Bay Magpies returned to play in the Queensland Football Association

q Coffs Harbour Breakers and Port Macquarie Magpies are set to meet in the opening round of the AFL North Coast season.

competition, and the Northern Beaches Blues and Nambucca Valley Lions merged.

AFL North Coast’s 2024 season gets underway with Round 1 matches on Saturday, 13 April.

Both the Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/ Toormina Saints begin their seasons at home.

The Breakers host last season’s runners up Port Macquarie Magpies in the opening round at Fitzroy Oval.

The Saints host the newly combined Northern Beaches/

Nambucca Valley side at Richardson Park.

The Breakers and Saints meet in their first local derby of the season at Fitzroy Oval, during ANZAC Round on Saturday, 27 April.

Their second meeting is during Round 8 at Richardson Park, with their third meeting in Round 11 at Fitzroy Oval.

Indigenous Rounds will be played in Round 6 and 7 in May, with Pride Round played in Round 11 on Saturday, 29 June.

AFL North Coast’s finals series gets underway on Saturday, 10 August, with the

grand final to be decided on Saturday, 24 August.

AFL Northern NSW Community Football & Competition Manager Brad Greenshields was looking forward to a great season of local footy.

“The standard of football played in the AFL North Coast has improved each year and I’m confident it will again in 2024,” he said.

“With this in mind I’m sure the five clubs playing both men’s and women’s in the senior competition this year are going to produce a memorable season.”

Coffs cricket teams to play for grand final glory

By Aiden BURGESS

ONE match for the ultimate prize.

After a season in the summer heat, premiership glory awaits when Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association’s grand finals are decided this weekend.

Valleys Cricket Club and Sawtell will play off in the

first grade Grand Final at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

The first grade grand final will be played over two days, with the second, third and fourth grade grand finals all one dayers.

Valleys Cricket Club won their only meeting against Sawtell this season, a 128run victory in their two-day

match in Dorrigo during Round 8 in December.

Sawtell and Coffs Colts meet in the second grade Grand Final at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

Sawtell won all three meetings against the Colts this season.

Nana Glen Lizards and Bellingen/Dorrigo play off in the third grade Grand Final

at Coffs Coast Hockey Fields.

The Lizards won three of their four meetings against Bellingen/Dorrigo this season.

Coffs Colts will take on the Northern Districts Rebels in the fourth grade Grand Final at Reg Ryan Oval.

The Colts won all three of their matches against the Rebels this season.

Competition Coordinator - Mid North Coast, David Horseman, was expecting a great first grade grand final.

COFFS COAST News Of The Area

“The two top teams from the whole season will battle it out in the Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association’s first grade decider,” he said.

“This two-day match will be played at a neutral location, so no home ground advantage.

“We have the top scoring batter from Sawtell in skipper Tyh Murphy, and the top wicket taker from Valleys in their skipper Josh Bartlett.

“We are expecting a great contest between these two teams over a two day match this weekend.

“They have only met

once this season with Valleys taking honours convincingly in a two-day match, the other scheduled match was washed out, as was their semi-final.

“I would expect both teams to play their normal attacking style, but it will be important to bat for as long as possible and the toss may be important with some wet weather forecast.

“We have a reserve weekend if the game gets washed out this weekend.”

Coffs touch players compete at National Championships

By Aiden BURGESS

THE COFFS Coast’s top touch football players have represented the Northern Eagles at the National Championships in Coffs Harbour.

The Coffs players were part of Northern Eagles teams contesting Touch Football Australia’s The Championships, held at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.

Fourteen local players took on the nation’s finest at home, including Daniel Bartlett, Nick Bent, Colin Bruckard, Trent Hunter, Jason

Rooney, Abel Straker, and Des Teale in the Men’s 40s, Alexis Grayson, Katie Hunter, Judith McNeill, and Brooke Pacheco in the Women's 40s, and Brendan Pellegrino, Dal Phoonie, and Kevin Rigney in the Men’s 50s.

Women’s 40s player Judith McNeill described the challenges of representing the Northern Eagles at the National Championships.

“The Northern Eagles is a massive region, from just above the Hunter all the way up to Tweed and out west to Tamworth, which is one of the challenging things for Eagles teams,” she said,

“Our team, the Women's 40s, had one training session where we could get most of the team together one week before the Championships, so

Macksville Sea Eagles win Hoey Moey 9s Tournament

By Aiden BURGESS

TOOHEYS New Group 2

Rugby League teams have prepared for the upcoming season by taking part in the Hoey Moey 9s Tournament at Geoff King Motors Oval.

Macksville Sea Eagles won the Men’s Open final, beating host team the Coffs Harbour Comets.

Wauchope Blues took out the Under 18s title beating Marist Brothers in the final.

The annual event featured Group 2 clubs

the Coffs Harbour Comets, Macksville Sea Eagles and Woolgoolga Seahorses.

It also attracted visiting clubs Lake Cathie, Marist Brothers, Port Breakers and the Wauchope Blues.

The Group 2 Rugby League season kicks off on Saturday, 13 April.

The two Hoey Moey 9s Tournament finalists meet in the opening round, when Macksville Sea Eagles host the Coffs Harbour Comets on Sunday, 14 April.

Woolgoolga Seahorses begin their premiership

defence away from home against the Nambucca Heads Roosters, and Grafton Ghosts and South Grafton Rebels clash in their local derby.

Sawtell Panthers have the opening round bye.

The Coffs Harbour Comets and Sawtell Panthers prepared for the upcoming season by playing trial matches last weekend.

The Comets travelled to take on the Kyogle Turkeys, and the Sawtell Panthers hosted the Macquarie Scorpions.

really our first game was like another training session, it’s very challenging.

“And we also play against some pretty tough teams, some of them are amazing and so well drilled.”

McNeill said the Coffs Coast’s juniors were thriving.

“We’ve had a lot of growth in juniors, and we’ve just had our third season of rep touch for juniors,” she said.

“We’ve had quite a few kids selected to represent the Northern Eagles at the Championships later in the year.

“We are really happy with the growth in our juniors.”

The National Youth Championships will be held in Coffs Harbour in September.

q The Macksville Sea Eagles celebrate their victory.

Coffs Basketball Round 7 wrap

By Aiden BURGESS

THE latest season of Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior competition continued last week with Round 7 matches played at Sportz Central.

Run It Back continued their unbeaten start to the Men’s A Grade season, winning their seventh straight game beating The

Chihuahuas 42-30.

All Washed Up! maintained second spot on the ladder with a 59-53 win against Shake n Bake.

Mitchell Fahey had a game high 17 points, and Ashley Eather top scored for the winners with 16 points.

You Wouldn’t Understand were also winners in Round 7, beating The Warriors 7456.

Noah Light top scored for the victors with 24 points, with teammate Taj Rea having 21 points.

Saints moved to the top of the Men’s B Grade ladder with a 63-53 win against 24fitty.

Maeson La Rosa top scored for Saints with 25 points.

White Chocolate edged past Can’t Catch a Breath 3836, with Jeremy Mcrae having

a game high 18 points.

Thunderbirds had a 6933 victory against The Bears, Spencer Skinner and Nicholas Tobin both scoring 21 points for Thunderbirds.

Chiroraptors won their seventh straight game to start the Men’s C Grade season, having a 85-68 win against Mantastic.

Gunsanjh Singh Brar top scored with 28 points.

Clips had a 48-34 win against The Sharks, with Julian Jenkinson top scoring with 21 points.

Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s Women maintained top spot on the Women's A Grade ladder with a 64-41 win against the Coffs Suns Under 16s Women 1 team.

Charlize Morrison had a game high 20 points for the winners.

Waratah Women won their fifth straight game beating the Coffs Suns Under

16s Women 2 team 86-35.

Clair Crampton had a game high 24 points, and Indiana Baldwin scored 21 points.

Sky Hookers maintained top spot on the Women's Social Competition ladder, edging past The Ring Ins 3130.

Hilliars Roses moved into second spot on the ladder with a 49-19 win against Coffs Reo.

Bella Wiffen had a game high 19 points.

q Coffs Coast players at the National Championships in Coffs Harbour.

COFFS COAST News Of The Area

Urunga Men's Veterans

Golf

By Ross HARDAKER

MARCH 11

Single Stableford.

Another good roll up today with 32 starters contesting the Annual

Bellingen Diggers Swimming Club

By Lois LANE

28.2.24

THERE were thirteen swimmers tonight.

RACE 1 50m Freestyle

Will find out the results on presentation night, this was a nominated timed race.

RACE 2 $ Brace Relay

There was one bust in this race, Jules Laurent and Mike Navin taking off two seconds off their time.

HEAT 1

Colin Redman and Jill Williams took hold of this race coming first, in second was Mike Navin and Jim Baird and in third was Amanda Vockler and Stephen Boyd.

HEAT 2

Sue Crossley and Peter Allison came from behind coming first, in second was Paul Sheridan and Cath Fisher and in third was Andrew O’Keeffe and Amanda Lockman.

FINAL

Park Beach Bowls Club

Results

By Doug POWELL

5-7 MARCH 2024—compiled by Doug

Powell Social Triples Tuesday 5Th

March. P. Woodsell, C. Williamson, L. Morris d T. Monck, C. Sheridan, A. Monck 1817 J. Clarke, W. Moore, R. Oakley d M.

Woolgoolga Bowling Club’s

Results

By Glenn LANE

TUESDAY Social Bowls 5 - 3 - 24

R Bennell and S Bailey defeated C Boyden and Laurie Walsh 21 - 16

R Ryan and G Cunningham defeated J Weston and B Merchant 28 - 15

R Edmonds and K Lumblew defeated J Taylor and G Lane 24 - 18

A Wroe and P Wroe defeated D Barnard and J Hurrell 17 - 15

G Pallister and T Alllen defeated R Bryan G McInerney 14 - 10 I Cork and S Barnard defeated M

Coffs Harbour Rifle Club

By Geoffrey HART

MARCH 06 - Howard St Rimfire

Range. The 90m Field Class match was conducted with 29 participants. Master

Grade: Bruce Hartmann 95.9, Daniel Finlay 90.6, Jake Buckley 90.5, A Grade: Stuart D 86.3, Johan Greyling 84.4, Geoff

Coffs Harbour Golf Club

Ladies

By Lynda BUTLER

TUESDAY 5 March – 9 hole 4 ball

Stableford with 30 starters

Overall winners – Norma Wilson and Karen Webster 25 points

C.ex Coffs Bowls Club

By Mary BUCKLEY

TERRIFIC Grand Final for our Major Singles Championships between Brenda Fane and Di De La Cruz (pictured), the final result being 22-25

Memorial Shield.

Winner, with 36 points, Selwyn Newby, 2nd on 35, Ross Hardaker, on a countback from Bob Jones, also on a countback.

Run-down, Gary Teale 35, Bruce Ryan 34, Arthur Hassett, Grant Cardow 33, Mal Eades, Garry Matthews, Neil Richardson 32. Bradmans Lawrie Renshall 17.

There was one bust in the final Paul Sheridan and Cath Fisher, taking one second off their time.

Colin Redman and Jill Williams went supersonic coming first and in the money and in second was Sue Crossley and Peter Allison.

RACE 3 25m Freestyle

HEAT 1

Jim Baird swam like a bat out of hell coming first, in second was Colin Redman and in third was Jill Williams.

HEAT 2

Stephen Boyd held on by the skin of his teeth coming first and second was a tie, Paul Sheridan and Sue Crossley.

HEAT 3

Peter Allison swam at the speed of light coming first, in second was Cath Fisher and in third was Amanda Lockman.

RACE 4 50m Breaststroke

There were three busts in this race, Colin Redman and Sue Crossley taking one second off their time ans Jim Baird taking four seconds off his time.

HEAT 1

Mike Navin couldn’t wait to finish this race coming first and in second

England, E. Kidd, C. England 27-18

J. Robinson, W. Grimshaw, M. Flint d

J. Murtas, I. Trengove, N. McVicar 26-10

C. Weatherall, P. North, M. Berube d

K. Bienefelt, J. Phillips, C. Jones 18-17

C. McLeod, A. Dorrington, D. Hull d

S. Campbell, S. Jones, R. Douglas d 16-14

A. Taylor, M. Miller, R. Alford d K. Williams, B. Morris, S. Morris 21-16

R. Jupp, R. Aitken, B. Johns d G. Skinner, L. Boekman, K. Morrison 2514

C. Brian, J. Thorn, D. Condon d A.

Hopes and J Wilcox 18 - 16

J Gibbins and R Shaw defeated B Morris and I Bridge 18 - 16

S Dodd and K Stirling defeated K Costelloe and F Cacciattolo 21 - 18

M Lampert and C Latham defeated

M Brookes and D Mason 29 - 18

1st Rink J Gibbins and R Shaw

2nd Rink M Lampert and C Latham

3rd Rink R Bennell and S Bailey

4th Rink R Ryan and G

Cunningham

Jackpot Winners R Ryan, G Cunningham, J Weston and B Merchant

Women’s Tuesday Social Bowls

5 - 3 - 24

E Nielsen, D Porta and N Haines

Slattery 82.3, Phillip Payne 80.4, Matt Walsh 80.4, Jon Brown 75.1, B Grade: Noel Furness 90.6, Sarah Jones 77.1, Member-440 70.2, Jessica Hancock 66.1, Member-677 66.1, Jonathon Mackay

59.3, Cherelle Steinhardt 52.0, C Grade: Matthew Mawby 73.4, Pete C 66.1, Carl P 66.0, Mitch Upton 65.4, Phil Hartmann 50.1, Cooper Finlay 50.0, Jennen Ngiau-Keng 48.0, Danny W 44.0, Philip

NTP’s - 26th hole (Pro Pin) Div 1Yvonne Avery, Div 2 – Norma Wilson

22nd hole Div 1 - Jo Gal, Div 2 –Caroline Whitelegge

Wednesday 6 March – Ladies Stroke

Medal Round with 87 starters

A Grade – Janette Curren (23) 73, Haley Butler (10) 74 c/b

B Grade – Di Lawrence (26) 75 c/b, Carolyn Daley (27) 75 c/b

in favour of Di. A great game to watch with the score changing constantly. Congratulations to Di on being our Major Singles player for 2024. Managed to get a few social games in between Championship games and the heat and humidity:

Thursday 1st February: Dot Heron/Beryl Foster, Joan Griffin,

NTPs 3rd Jock Haworth, 9th Kevin Sanford.

Longest Putt Peter Inskip. Slab Winner Peter Wood.

Overall Shield Winner Selwyn Newby. Congratulations Selwyn, who gave a touching acceptance speech on receiving the Shield.

Just a reminder from the greens staff, our tee time on Monday is 8.30

was Jill Williams.

Jules Laurent did a time trial.

HEAT 2

Amanda Vockler went at high speed coming first, in second was Stephen Boyd and in third was Paul Sheridan.

HEAT 3

Andrew O’Keeffe put the pedal to the metal coming first, in second was Cath Fisher and in third was Peter Allison. Amanda Lockman did a time trial.

A great night had by all, come and join us for some fun and laughter on Wednesday night at 5.30

6.3.24

There was sixteen swimmers tonight. We would like to welcome Andrew Denham.

RACE 1 Individual Medley

Will find out the results on presentation night, this is a nominated timed race.

RACE 2 $ 25m Freestyle

There three busts in this race, Cath Fisher and Rachel Browning taking one second off their time and Amanda Lockman taking three seconds off her time.

Stone, P. Lilly, R. Lane 29-9

G. Williams, R. Beaumont, J. Hinsley d D. Catling, D. Orchard, M. Star 19-14

J. Kennedy, S. McAvany, B. Nicholson d J. Long, P. Booth, J. Dunn 22-18 Social Triples Thursday 7th March.

P. Woodsell, P. Toy L. Morris d N. Dean, R. Host, J. Bishop 24-9

B. Walmsley, P. North, B. Trotman d A. Taylor, D. Wilson, J. Dunn 22-20

D. Catling, M. Star. I. Trengove d W. Moore, R. Oakley, R. Aitken 26-15

defeated M Campos, J Hampstead and J Merchant 22 - 10

Woolgoolga Wanderers Wednesday 6 - 3 - 24

J Taylor and G Lane defeated Punkin and J Martin 22 - 16

Bear and D Mason defeated P Hatton and R Holliday 25 - 14

G Burgess, S Oliver and I Brien defeated B Pendred, P Jones and M Lampert 21 - 17

R Taylor, P Diamond and I Cork defeated T Collins, J Whalen and I Carruthers 32 - 14

P Devine, J Simpson and Ken Costelloe defeated G Woolley, S Ferro and R Shaw 22 - 17

Grace 41.0, Tyler K 33.1, Member-782 25.1, Visitors: Mason Beale 46.0, Fiona Mackay 26.0

The 50m F-Class match was conducted with 16 participants. Daniel Finlay 196.9, Bruce Hartmann 195.4, Jake Buckley 194.9, Cooper Finlay 192.8, Johan Greyling 191.9, Jessica Hancock 191.8, Jon Brown 191.7, Pete C 190.1, Phil Hartmann 189.7, Member-677

am. Please adhere to this to give the boys the time they need to prepare the Course for us.

Thank you all, see you next week.

q Selwyn receiving his Shield.

HEAT 1

Jim Baird ripped his lane apart coming first, in second was Paul Sheridan and in third was Dean Bonventi.

Andrew Denham did a time trial.

HEAT 2

Stephen Boyd surprised himself coming first, in second was Peter Allison and in third was Andrew O’Keeffe.

HEAT 3

Jules Laurent blitz the field coming first and in second was Elizabeth Casey.

FINAL

Jim Baird did it again coming first and in the money, in second was Stephen Boyd and in third was Peter Allison.

RACE 3 25m Backstroke

There were five busts in this race, Rachel Browning, Andrew O’Keeffe, Colin Redman all taking one second off their time, Jim Baird taking three seconds off his time and Jules Laurent taking four seconds off his time.

HEAT 1

Jill Williams went a high speed coming first and in second was Mike

J. Flynn, J. Clarke, L. Boekman d B. Edwards, J. Weyer, C. Hansen 27-15

C. Lloyd, R. Felton, B. Kelly d J. Lowndes, M. Miller, S. Bloomfield 1613

P. Booth, G. Turner, D. Orchard d J. Kindred, G. Kindred, G. Kindred 21-17

J. Long, J. Thorn, D. Condon d J. McLeod, S. McCudden, G. Hinsley 21-14

R. Alford, D. Valentine, T. Erskine d C. Weatherall, P. Evans, J. Swan 23-16

J. Robinson, W. Grimshaw, P. Rambow d A. Dorrington, D. Hull, R.

1st Rink R Taylor, P Diamond and I

Cork

2nd Rink P Devine, J Simpson and Ken Costelloe

Lucky Loser G Woolley, S Ferro and R Shaw Jackpot winners Bear, D Mason, P Hatton and R Holliday

Women’s Thursday Social Bowls

7 - 3 - 24

H Dunbar Swinging Lead, J Hinchley, D Foster and J Merchant defeated H Dunbar N Haines, J Hampstead and M Compos 14 - 10

Friday Social Bowls 8 - 3 - 24 N Haines and J Hampstead defeated P Devine and K Costelloe

187.5, Philip Grace 186.6, Cherelle Steinhardt 185.4, Saxon G 185.3, Mitch Upton 176.1, Carl P 66.0, Danny W 44.1

Results of the 300m Long Range event held on Saturday March 9, 2024 at the Dairyville range, with 18 participants. F-Open (from a possible 120): Mykel Watson 118.10, Bruce Hartmann 116.7, Theo G 116.6, Greg Roberts 114.7, Noel Furness 113.8,

Marie Sercombe

15th hole Lyndsay Smith, Rose-

Marie Sercombe

22nd hole Lindy Ingham, Janette

Curran, Christine Tessari

26th hole Trish Mackay, Yvonne Avery, Jo Foggiato

Putting Comp – Maureen Franklin

27 putts

Saturday 9 March – Ladies Stroke

Navin.

HEAT 2

Stephen Boyd held on by a fingernail coming first, closely followed Amanda Vockler and in third was Peter Allison.

HEAT 3

Cath Fisher fast moving coming first and in second was Elizabeth Casey.

RACE 4 75m Freestyle

HEAT 1

Dean Bonventi had a cracker of a race coming first, in second was Colin Redman and in third was Paul Sheridan.

Andrew Denham did a time trial.

HEAT 2

Andrew O’Keeffe blew everyone out of the water coming first, in second was Peter Allison and in third was Mike Navin.

HEAT 3

Jules Laurent was in turbo mode coming first, in second was Cath Fisher and in third was Elizabeth Casey.

Amanda Lockman did a time trial. A great night had by all, please come and join us for some fun and laughter on Wednesday night at 5.30.

Shephard 20-19

D. Francis, M. Berube, K. Morrison d J. Eding, G. Skinner, G. Colman 20-16

S. Campbell, S. Jones, R. Douglas d G. Williams, R. Beaumont, M. Flint 16-12

Park Beach Bowling Club conducts free bowls lessons every Saturday morning, weather permitting, from 9.30am. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Please put your name down at the Club reception by 5.00pm Friday.

26 - 11 H Schutz and R Bennell defeated D Barnard and G Pallister 16 - 13

R Ryan and M Hopes defeated A Wroe and R Shaw 31 - 8

J Hurrell and H Katala defeated G Lane and F Cacciattolo 24 - 18

B Morris and T Allen defeated D Hodge and M Hodge 29 - 13

J Taylor and I Cork defeated M Brookes K Stirling 22 -18

J Gibbins and R Whelan defeated G Pallister and J Martin 30 - 16

1st Rink J Gibbins and R Whelan, 2nd Rink J Hurrell and H Katala 3rd H Schutz and R Bennell No Jackpot

Tony Bowling 109.3, Tim Bowyer 108.6, Lachlan Foster 108.5, Matt Foster (visitor) 116.7, F/TR (from a possible 120): Al Phillips 118.8, Johan Greyling 79.0, Ron Dean 67.0, Sporting/Hunting (from a possible 100): Billy Smith 95.7, Michael Paul 95.6, Member-677 93.6, Jess Hancock 91.5, Armand F 85.6, Cherelle Steinhardt 60.0

Medal Round with 41 starters Div 1 – Greer Galloway (15) 74 c/b, Dee Anderson (26) 74, Tracey Foster (14) 75

Gross Winner – Carrie Fagan (7) 84

NTP’s – 3rd (Pro Pin) Judy Everitt 15th Jo Symons

Putting Comp – Div 1 - Carrie Fagan 27 putts, Div 2 – Jo Symons 27

Brenda Fane d Dot Heron/Beryl Foster, Chris Irvine, Jan Appleton 27-7; Jo Burgess, Robyn Groundwater, Di De La Cruz d Rosemary Williams, Angela Fryer, Shirley Willis 20-7; Joce Landrey, Sue Wilson d Margaret Stocks, Jeanette Kutz 24-5.

Tuesday 13th February: Joce Landrey,

Beryl Foster d Jo Burgess, Robyn

Groundwater, Rosemary Williams 13-11; Jan Appleton, Chris Irvine, Di De La Cruz d Jan Appleton(s), Angela Fryer, Joan Griffin 22-14.

Thursday 15th February:

Joan Griffin, Brenda Fane d Robyn

Groundwater, Di De La Cruz 35-16; Joce Landry, Jan Appleton, Rosemary

Williams d Joce Landry(s), Sue Wilson, Shirley Willis 22-19.

Thursday 29th February: Jan Appleton, Shirley Willis d Robyn Groundwater, Brenda Fane 19-13; Joan, Griffin, Chris Irvine, Jeanette Kutz d Rosemary Williams, Margaret Stocks, Mary Buckley 10-7.

URUNGA/BELLINGEN

IGA Supermarket

Spar Supermarket Urunga

Foodworks Urunga

Lindsay’s

Kombu

Cardow’s

Sawtell Bowls Results

MONDAY TWILIGHT BOWLS 5pm to 7pm (Names in on sheet at Club by 4pm/ Payment and Check in by 4.45pm)

Single Entry- All Bowlers Welcome

MONDAY Twilight Bowls 4/3/24Cancelled Due to Weather Conditions

TUESDAY– Ladies Social Bowls

5/3/24

L Mitchell, G Pickard L Wheeler DEF M Sharman, M McDonald, D Ide

A Day, N Foy, J Alford DEF H Muir, S Mason, L Kratz

M Friend, J Townsend DEF T Thomas, J Brown

Safety Beach Women’s Golf Club

By Marilyn ELY

TUESDAY 5 March was wonderful day for 32 ladies to be out on the Safety Beach golf course to play the 1st Monthly Medal and Veterans round.

Ground staff have been busy tidying the course after some wet and windy periods and it really shows

Successful place-getters on the day were, Division 1 winner Leanne Clark with 73 pts, Div 2 winner Michelle Merrikin with 71 on c/b from Marilyn Ely 71 and Div 3 winner Ros Myles, also on 71 pts. A very tight game. Gross winner was Leanne Clark with 94

Park Beach Women’s Bowling Club

By Mandy TRENGOVE

SOCIAL Bowls Wednesday 6th March

AM Taylor, C Treharne, J Slater def D Allen, M Christian, R Crestani 21/7

L Mitchell, K Dunn, Y Schmidt def E Kidd, D Hargraves, Y Hinsley 18/12

J Pearce-Kennedy, B Bodel, C Jones def E Blanton, J Boulton, L McLeod 19/11

M England, S Hancock, R Jupp def S Betts, C Garrett, C O’Dwyer 20/16

P Poulton, V Maher, R DeMeio, V Valentine def J Farrell, T Rhodes, K Blow, M Watt 16/12

C Sheridan, J Woodford, M Monck def C Dodd, K Frail, J Brown 26/13

Mid

North Coast Veteran Golfers Association

By Colin CUTT

TUESDAY, 27th February, 59 Mid North Coast Veteran Golfers competed in a single stableford at Bellingen Golf Course.

A Grade: Winner – Steven Robinson

38, 1st runner-up John Nichols 35 c/b, 2nd runner-up Wayne Cormick 35, 3rd runner-up Martin Tizzard 34 c/b.

B Grade: Winner – Brian Sheridan

34, 1st runner-up Stan McCabe 33, 2nd runner-up Terry Cleary 32, 3rd runner-

Coffs Harbour District Darts

By Ray BEASLEY

SAWTELL RSL Club

Summer Comp

Monday 4 March

Bad Habbits def Surgical Steel 5-4

Warriors def DILLIGAF 5-4

TeeBeeAye def Thunderstruck 5-4

Fluke Shots - Bye

100s

Christine (2)

Karen C (1)

Asttan (1) Ben (2)

Coffs Table Tennis Results

By Dale ALLEN

FRIDAY , 8th March, 2024

Division 1

Will Fang d Arpit Pathak 3/2, Reece Baker d Gerard Martin 3/1, Will Fang d Gerard Martin 3/0, Reece Baker d Arpit Pathak 3/2, Arpit Pathak d Gerard Martin 3/1, Reece

R Lucas, E Tindall DRAW J Partridge, L North WEDNESDAY- Men’s Social Bowls 6/3/24

R McCelland, A Robertson DEF G Hitchen, A Wilkinson R Stock, T Hodgson, B Martin DEF R Smithers, S Shaw, J Rice J Richardson, J Urge, K Sharman DEF

N McClelland, H Slater, J Friend

B Newling, P Bartholomew, G Campbell DEF M Flint, P Cook, A Wagstaff

N Wong, M Cutts, J Murtas DEF W Hall, M Aujard, D Anderson B Clugston,, R Williams, ,B

stokes.

NTP 4th Di MacRae, 9th Rose Morrow, 11th Ros Myles.

Thank you Cathy Anderson for donating the raffle won by Laurie Pilon. The competition year is well underway and our Open Day is the next big game on the program, always very well supported. Due to our 2024 playing schedule having to be at the printer’s early, the new Beach Street Dining 9 hole Medley game isn’t included in the fixtures booklet so don’t forget it is playable during the week, as many games as you like and is a new properly run comp but you must register for the game. A Beach Street Dining voucher and ball prizes are on offer. See you out there.

T Thorn, J Kennedy, M Gudgeon, V Slater def T Thorn, H Illingworth, D Futcher, L Loadsman 21/11

Mixed Pairs Friday 8th March

G Duffy, D Lindner def D Hargraves, Y Schmidt 23/9

D Walsh, S Bailey def M and C England 23/8

C Williamson, R Holloway def A Stone, J Phillips 18/13

K Dunn, L Loadsman def D Futcher, R Lane 17/13

S Jones, C Keogh def E Kidd, P Poulton 29/13

R Oakley, V Slater def R Coffey, C Cutt 24/14

K and T Blow def M and S Watt 15/14

Good luck to Kerry Blow and Lyndy McLeod v Carmen McVicar and Judy Clarke in the Minor Pairs this week

up Bob Stockton 31 c/b.

NTP’s: 3rd – Brad Nesbitt, 7th David Eather, 12th – Wayne Cormick, 16th –Ross Donnelly, Longest putt – Stan McCabe.

Ball run to 32 pts.

Also, on Tuesday 27/02/2024, 12 MNC Veteran Golfers competed at in a single stableford at Bowraville Golf Course.

Winner – Steve Ward 33 c/b, 1st runner-up Trevor Neaves 33.

NTP’s: 6th – Terry Noble, 9th – Ken Gordon.

Longest putt on 5th – Terry Noble. Ball run to 32 pts.

Chris H (1)

Craig C (1)

David (1)

Dean (3)

Edward (3)

Josh (1)

Michael (1)

Paul (8)

Peter (2)

Ricky (3)

Rob (1)

Rory (1)

Sam (2)

High pegs

Paul (58)

Rory (79)

Baker d Will Fang 3/2. WINNER: Reece Baker from Will Fang.

Division 2

Lachlan Dierkx d Yash Tyagi 3/1, Bo Zhang d Terry Baker 3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d Terry Baker 3/0, Bo Zhang d Yash Tyagi 3/0, Yash Tyagi d Terry Baker 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Bo Zhang

3/1. WINNER: Lachlan Dierkx from Bo Zhang.

Division 3

Fitzpatrick DEF N Thomas, L Preston, N Lamond C Bourke, C Attard, L Zecchinati, DEF B Cranley, G Fisher, M Langley

T Lavelle, A Baker, B Blight DEF J Reichman, D Bond, W Meadows

N Stahlhut, P Weir, A Sorbello DEF I

Maderic, M Jenkins, G Walsh

T Brooks, R Cridge, G Denniss DEF R

Rolinson, J Oates, R Morris

A Amos, P Warby DEF W Vaughn, G Hampson FRIDAY -Open Social Bowls 8/3/24

Kev Taylor, L Preston DEF N Sillar, S Sillar

M Flint, P Bartholomew, B Meadows

Sawtell Golf Results

By Janet O’DOWD

3/3 STABLEFORD Brian McKellar

42, Kyle Banks 41c/b, Peter Matten

41, Dieder Galas 38c/b, Neil Oates

38, Luke Fry 37. Balls to 34. NTP 7 Ethan Thornborough, Bruce Lynch, Gary Reidy. NTP 11 Allan Heffernan, Martin Linehan, Peter English (pro pin)

6/3 Stroke & Putting A: Jacui Chapman 73, Sharon Shipman 74, B: Robyn O’Dwyer 71, Margaret Gill 75. Balls to 82c/b. Putting A: Rhonda Cooper, B: Robyn O’Dwyer. Straight Drive A: Annie Walters, B: Lyn Lightfoot. Pro pin Therese Beswick

Coffs Harbour Golf Club Monday Vets

By Vicki SILVER

MONDAY 11th March 2024.

44 Members and visitors played a 9 hole two person event - 333. WinnersGarry Silver & Geoff Clerke with

33 Second Jackie Wilgress & Lin Kildea 32

Third

Jeff Howlett & Les Rollins 29 c/b

Fourth Janette Curran & Roger Martin

20 c/b

Ball Comp:

Vicki Silver & Jim McIntosh 29

Marilyn Waterhouse & Jo

Coffs CEX Social Golf Results

By Steve ROBINSON

10 MARCH 2024

COFFS CEX Social Golf Club played on Sunday 10 March 2024 at Iluka, Single Stableford.

The Winner: Carmel Hill (37)

Runner Up: Catherine Robinson (36)

Ball Winners: Jose Caravante (35), Mark Heelis (32), Peter Hill (32), Sam Brazel (31), Steve Robinson (31), Kel Wilton (30), Peter Lucca (29), Terry

Leader Board

DILLIGAF 26 Warriors 25

Bad Habbits 19

SSAA Benchrest Results

By Rod MADELEY

DAIRYVILLE range. Event was 100yds Rimfire Group. Alistair McMillan .7110, sg .571. Bernie Axford .7242, sg .505. Greg Sutherland .7478, sg .600. Keiran Grabham .7496, sg .651. Bill Buchanan .7584, sg .382.

Vaihbav Tyagi d Char Berglund 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Lulu Zhang 3/1, Vaibhav Tyagi d King McKie

3/0, Lulu Zhang d Char Berglund

3/0, King McKie d Lulu Zhang 3/2, Sharee Templeton d Char Berglund 3/1, King McKie d Sharee Templeton

3/1, Vaibhav Tyagi d Lulu Zhang 3/2, King McKie d Char Berglund 3/0, Vaibhav Tyagi d Sharee Templeton

3/1. WINNER: Vaibhav Tyagi from

DEF K Lowry, G Hitchin, W Bujeya

T Brooks, R Cridge, P Warby DEF E

Tindall, A Robertson, N Stahlhut

G Hampson, J Oates, G Fisher DEF T

Lavell, H Slater, P Cook

J Reichman, P Coulton DEDF M

Turner, G Turner

J Brown, J Smithers, R Morris DEF K

Sharman, P Day, N Harvey

W Vaughn, D Anderson, A Wagstaff

DEF M Sharpe, G Hay, N Wong

F Sharpe, M Friend, A Baker DEF K

Mason, A Day, J Richardson

S Mason, J Partridge, K Lewis DEF T

Karam, G Dennis, J Urge

7/3 Play 9 Back Greg White 20, Andy Bruce 19c/b. Balls to 16c/b

8/3 Stableford Luke Fry 36. Balls to 34

9/3 Stableford A: Anthony Rapley 37c/b, Hudson Summerfield 37. B: Grant Martin 38, Dean Szabo 36c/b. C: Dennis Ryan 40, Daniel Pritchard 36. Balls to 30c/b. NTP 7 A: Sam Rava (pro pin), B: Brian McKellar, C: Garry Herbert. NTP 11 A: Scott Pollard, B: Doug O’Connor. C: Luke Johnson Ladies Stableford Chris Constable 15c/b, Brenda Connors 15c/b

10/3 Stableford William Trice 37, Christopher McDonald 34. Balls to 32c/b

Corrigan 28

Anne King-Scott & Caroline Whitelegge 27 Nearest The Pins: 3rd Hole Jo Torrens & Jeff Howlett

6th Hole Trish Mackay & Stuart Malouf

Next week is a single stableford event.

Sawtell RSL Snooker Club

By Ken MASON

TUESDAY 5th March 2024

Main Draw Winners: - Jayne Taylor - R/U Laurie Preston

Consolation Winners: - Brian Ng - R/U John Browning

Stephens (28), Mike Watkin (28).

NTP’s: Jose Caravante

Next Game is on Sunday 24 March 2024 at Sawtell, Single Stableford.

Sawtell Veterans Golf

By Ian REYNOLDS

RESULTS for 11th March 2024

9 Hole Stroke Net 23 Starters Ladies

Lesley Kimber 33 W/c/b, Marlene Starr 33, Lynda Wood 35

Men

Glwyn Dawson 31, Peter Rode 34, Cliff Hutchings 35 c/b

TeeBeeAye 19

Thunderstruck 18

Surgical Steel 16

Fluke Shots 12

Rod Madeley .8762, sg .693. Ian Thompson .8846, sg .397.

Hunting rifle: Robert Wells .8026, sg .687. Craig 2.4548, sg 2.206.

Event was 200yds Centrefire Group. Ray Beavis .3026, sg .409. Barry Warwick .3376, sg .457. Peter Fleming .3535, sg .275. Alistair McMillan .3617, sg .602. Michael Thompson .3638, sg .400. Rob Hamilton .3958, .555. Keiran Grabham .5009, sg .636.

King McKie.

Division 4

Boyd McGregor d David McGrath 3/1, Nick Jankovic d David Iles 3/1, David McGrath d David Iles 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Boyd McGregor 3/1, Boyd McGregor d David Iles 3/1, Nick Jankovic d David McGrath 3/2.

WINNER: Nick Jankovic from Boyd McGregor

Death Notices

Andrew Lee Christensen

9th March 2024

Late of Woolgoolga. A much loved son of Margaret and John (both dec), and brother to Neil, Helen, Jenny, Robert, Fiona, Beth and partners. Entertaining uncle to Ben, Karin, Tessa, Pia, Edward, Tim, David, Jane, Chris, Paul, Myles, Rachel, Jazper, Tahlia and Bella. A life lived bravely; a life that touched many people; and a life lived his way.

Aged 65 Years

The family would like to thank all those who cared for him over many years. A heartfelt thankyou to Fi and Rick for many years of love and attention. A private cremation was held on Tuesday, 12th March 2024 at the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Karangi.

VICTOR RULLIS

FUNERAL SERVICES

(02) 6651 5007

www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

NEWBURY

Donald Ross ‘Don’

4th March 2024, peacefully at Baringa Private Hospital. Formerly of Hazelbrook and Leura, Blue Mountains. Late of Sawtell. Much loved husband of Sue. Loving and devoted father of Ross, Lynne, Mark, Gaye and Claire. Cherished papa of his 11 grandchildren. Youngest son of Thomas and Marjory Newbury (both dec’d). Don will be sadly missed by all his extended family and friends.

Aged 91 Years

Forever In Our Hearts

Don was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour as per his wishes.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW

Accred No 12033-01

Margaret Daly

11th March 2024

Peacefully at home. A much loved wife of Jack (Dec) and Wally (Dec). Loving mother and mother-in-law to Jenny & Mort, Rhonda & Max, Chris & Janet and Kim & Robin. Grandmother of 8 and great-grandmother of 15.

Aged 92 Years

“It must be time for a cuppa”

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Margaret’s celebration of life service to be held on Monday, 18th March 2024 at 11am in the chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi.

VICTOR RULLIS

FUNERAL SERVICES

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

FINLAYSON

Don

9th March 2024, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family. Loving husband of Robyn. Loved father and father-in-law of Joel, Jesse & Rachelle and Josh & Antonela. Adored pop of Levi and Hunter.

Aged 72 Years

MORRISON

Margaret Osmond

11th March 2024, peacefully at Bellinger River District Hospital. Late of Coffs Harbour. Much loved wife of Gordon (dec’d). Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Heather & Bill, Grant & Susan and Finley. Loved grandmother of their families. Margaret will be sadly missed by all her extended family and friends.

Aged 87 Years

Now At Peace

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Margaret’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 15th March 2024 commencing at 2.30 pm.

Margaret’s Funeral Service will be live streamed on Keith Logue & Sons Facebook page.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW Accred No 12033-01

PEARCE Mervyn Joseph ‘Jo’

11th March 2024, passed peacefully at Fresh Hope. Late of Coffs Harbour. Much loved husband of Rosemary. Cherished father and father-in-law of Terry, Vickie & Jeff and Lisa. Adored pa of Ryan & Emma, Kirra & Ashley, Brittany & Dean, Kurtis and Rhys. Great-grandfather of 7.

Aged 87 Years

Loved His Life And Family

Lived It To The Fullest And Gave To The Community

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Jo’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 15th March 2024 commencing at 1.00 pm. Jo’s Funeral Service will be live streamed on Keith Logue & Sons Facebook page.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Don’s Funeral Service to be held in the Orara Valley Recreation Ground, Dairyville Road, Upper Orara on Friday 15th March 2024 commencing at 2.00 pm, thence for private cremation at Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour. Friends are invited to join the family for light refreshments following the Service in the grounds.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW Accred No 12033-01

EASTER 2024

EARLY DEADLINES NOTIFICATION

Due to Easter Public Holidays we will have early deadlines for the below editions:

Due to Easter Public Holidays we will have early deadlines for the below editions:

Friday 2nd April 2021 will be printed and distributed

Friday 29th March 2024 will be printed and distributed Thursday 28th March 2024

Thursday 1st April 2021

Garage Sale

Items for Sale

Crafty Recyclers

Selling 2nd hand goods Clearance of all stock from all yards

Many new items unloaded to shed daily Mon to Fri 9.30am to 2pm

7 Newcastle Dr Toormina

For Sale

BISLEY

BLOWER Vacuum

$30 0499 592 475

(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)

(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)

Friday 9th April 2021

Friday 5th April 2024

(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)

(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)

For more information, please contact Gaye gaye@newsofthearea.com.au

For more information, please contact Shannon shannon@newsofthearea.com.au

We wish you all a Happy & Safe Easter from the team at Coffs Coast News Of The Area COFFS COAST

Classifieds 02 4981 8882

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Free

2 bedheads for single beds. 6652 4051 F080324

80 DVDs, a few movies but majority war documentaries. $50. Ph 0411 352 198

EXERCISE crosstrainer machine.YORK Circular feet action while standing using arm handles 0437 543 943

TERRACOTTA pots round and square, large

A variety of pictures old & modern prints, several by old masters. Reducing collection, prices lower Phone 6652 3791 F070722

ABROCKET twister exercise waist and abdomen trainer Brand new in box $35. 0490 161 119

ANTIQUE dressing table, massive wood white, one drawer in middle with cupboards on sides (three drawers in each). $80. 0499 592 475 F090224

ASSORTED tools from $2. Open to offers. 6654 0829

BBQ, GC, 4 burner captain cook, older style $15. 0419 166 688

CAMPING Rooftop ladder. Extendable. Alum James Baroud. Never used. $70. 0437 543 943

CAMPING Swag

Weisshorn brand double swag, domed ends. Insect screened Comfortable mattress Exc / new cond. $70 0437 543 943

BREVILLE bread and dough maker, used once. $98. 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688 SOLD

CANON Printer colour Pixma. $25ono Ph: 6650 0380

CASSETTE, Turn table and CD player (without remote) in beautiful cond $100. Can send photos Call 0488 799 424 F150324

SOLD

CEILING fans, 6 clipsal 48" stainless and alum with controls. $20 each or $100 the lot. VGC 0488 032 770

CHILDRENS play table and 2 chairs, painted wood, 1 metre plus. $90. 66523791

CHILDS bed, suit 2-10 year old, drawers mattress, GC. $95 66536275

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

For Sale For Sale

For Sale

HIGH pressure cleaner Karcher. $75 0410 439 950 F260124

DVD complete set all 7 seasons Madmen $50ono 0488 763 132

ERGONOMIC Height adjustable study desk chair. $50. 0490 161 119

FEED bin, solid metal with lid, used for animal feed, capacity equivalent to a 44 gal drum. $75 6653 8337

FEEDER bin, metal galvanised, hooks onto fence or post. $55. 6653 8337

$85 0407 654 879

CUFF Links, mesh gold tone, wrap around with red stone. $25 0407 654 879

DESK 135cm x 66cm x 75cm H with 2 drawers $30. 0499 592 475

DESK Grey, very strong folds down for moving 1.5m L x 73cm H x 75cm W. Exc cond. $40. 0415 981 605

DINING chairs, timber framed quality dining chairs x 6, GC Upholstered in “ Ostrich print” off white material $100 for the lot. Pickup only Park Beach. Ph 0419 649 391

DINING room table with turned red cedar legs and frame and coachwood top $200 Restored antique bed $3,500. 0400 976 080

DISPLAY shelving units 3 types for ornaments plants, models etc. $75 each. 66523791

FLAVOURCHEF cooking systyem-brand new $50 ono SMS 0409 916 076

FLOOR rugs, 2 green rugs, 1 - 180cm x 125cm $50. Silver collection made in Turkey. Photos can be supplied. 0490 161 119

HOOVER

LG lightwave solardom microwave oven, model MP94853A. $80. Photos can be supplied. 0490

161 119

LOUNGE 2 seater 2x 1 seater wooden arm rests exc cond $100 Call John 6651 7710

LOVELY boudoir bedroom dressing chair Unmarked. $50. Photos can be sent. 0490 161 119 F031123

LOVELY Half Moon shape ottoman 110cmL x 50cmW $95. Photos avail. 0490 161 119

MARKWELL 3 phase 18cfm air compressor $99. Ph 0474 378 447

MATTRESS

JUST Cars magazines 60 total just $50 Ph: 0467 587 536

For Sale

For Sale

Camper Trailers

QUALITY wooden furniture for sale made by craftsman/carpenter variety to choose from view anytime. 66523791 ReS031123

R&R heavy duty over toilet chair with antisplash 250kg, swl. $65. Photos can be supplied. 0490 161 119 F221223

RECLINER Jason brand. Fully operational $50. 0409 022 456 F080324

STAND up work bench ornamental for play or computer use. 1.2 h and wide, $99. 66523791

STEAM Mop Hoover with 2 cleaning pads in very good as new condition $40 Moonee 0422440802

MOVING boxes, large (20) and medium (10) cardboard boxes. $3 each for large, $2 for medium 0410439950

MUSO Stomp Box SK inc cable, pick up & battery. $99 0407654879

KCARE Premium seat walker, exc cond. Little use. $50. 0401 573 040

LAPTOP hard drive cloning kit $30. 6649 2967

LARGE bench for work or decoration. 2m have a look. Phone 6652 3791 F270123

LARGE gold framed wall mirror. 75cm x 50cm. Photos can be sent. $30. 0490161119

OTTOMAN padded with 2 storage drawers $30. Photos can be supplied. 0490 161 119

RUSTIC oblong 6 seat 1930's white mahogany farm table $60. Ph 0474 378 447

TANDEM Holstar Grand Tourer bike, exc cond $1200. 0458 274 319 Re100921

TAPESTRY, Glass framed and wall hung $95. 0422 440 802

TENNIS racquets, man and ladies older style (Yvonne Goolagong) $40.00 each. Phone 0401 221 864

THREE Heavey duty collapsible reflective safety truck triangles $30 0490 161 119 F070723

TV hearing aid ear phones, Digitech, in box

Rechargeable. $100 0407 654 879

Boats

10FT Cartop Tinny $150 Parson 3.6 outboard Little use. $250. 0401573040

TRAILER Sailer Hutton 24 registered. Trailer & boat ready to go. $7500. 0427034446 Re230421

VASE Mikasa Ceramic Blue. 32cm tall 25cm W Original Label. $50. Ph 0407 654 879 F151223

WALL unit, large, timber and glass, good cond teak. $75. 6652 5377

2012 Evernew E900

WINE Bar decor 3 green glass bottles in Seagrass Vintage 1970 $100 ono 0407654879

WINE Fridge – Large Transtherm Ermitage Holds 240 bottles

Reasonable Offer Accepted. 0418278966

Re190424

SHOWER

PENDULUM

GYM

LARGE vintage timber wall mirror. Photo can be supplied. 90cm x 70cm $40. 0490 161 119

PHIX steel saw bench with operating instructions in GC, has not been used much $35. 0421 699 174 F081223

LG Bluray CD/DVD disk player. With remote. $45. Photos avail. 0490 161 119 F011223

SNOW Skis and bindings. Incl poles and Salomen boots Great cond. $100 the lot 0409 022 456 F020623

TIMBER Vintage free standing chevelle mirror Glass measures 1m x 30cm. $50 Photos available 0490 161 119

WOK Bessemer $20. 0499 592 475

21’. Fully serviced, new tyres. Queen size bed, ensuite, washing machine, full sized fridge, microwave, elect, gas, battery, twin solar panels. Air con and diesel heater. Sat dish and water tanks. Stone guard. Reg til June 2024. Y-07503

Exc cond. Extras inc $45,000 ono Ph 0412 628 186 e220324

Auspac Media

Contractors Licence 77993C

SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING MADE FROM COLORBOND

SUPPLY ONLY OR SUPPLY

nestlersversatilecladding.com.au

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY HAPPY VALLEY

ABC, 8.30pm

After a seven-year wait, the third and final season of this supreme crime thriller lands on free-to-air. Featuring a fascinatingly ordinary protagonist in Yorkshire policewoman Catherine Cawood (played with bewitching emotional dexterity by Sarah Lancashire, pictured), this sterling British whodunnit from Sally Wainwright is a masterclass in character-led drama. In this thrilling six-episode conclusion, it’s seven years later in Cawood’s chaotic life too, with her grandson Ryan (Rhys Connah) now 16.

FRIDAY, March

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 That Pacific Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00

Of Gods. (Ml, R) 3.00 Cook And The Chef. (R) 3.25 Tenable. (R) 4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.20 Make Me A

SUNDAY

THE EMERALD ISLES WITH ARDAL O’HANLON

SBS, 7.30pm

Irish comedian Ardal O’Hanlon (pictured) whips off any rose-coloured glasses for this very engaging and witty tour of his homeland. The Death in Paradise playful presenter in this three-part sojourn, airing in full tonight. He employs the dubious wisdom of the 1840’s book Ireland, its Scenery, Character, etc. and Mrs Hall to answer his own question:

”Are we really a bunch of superstitious, god-fearing, whisky-sodden chancers?” Airing for the first time on free-to-air.

TUESDAY

BETTER DATE THAN NEVER

ABC, 8.30pm

Tonight, Asher is a bundle of nerves ahead of her first date. But when she meets her handsome date Matt, who arrives with a posy of flowers, and the conversation flows, will her daring move steering the chit-chat into the realm of politics and religion douse the feel-good mood? Allycia’s theme park date is full of fun, but the emotional aftermath has her mum reaching for the tissues. For a complete emotional U-turn, tune into Seven’s frivolous First Dates at 9.30pm for a dose of conventional, superficial dating

6.00

6.00

11.15

5.00

cash prize.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Ready Steady Cook. Hosted by Miguel Maestre.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml) Irish comedian Graham Norton presents the first of two compilations of highlights from the recent series.

10.50 Fire Country. (Mv, R) A delivery truck crashes into the fire station.

11.40 The Project. (R)

12.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, March 16

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast.

9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) 1.30 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Mas, R) 2.40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (R) 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 4.00 Universe With Brian Cox. (R)

5.00 Better Date Than Never. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: Call Of Duty – Anjali Sharma. (R)

6.30 Back Roads: East Arnhem Land, NT Pt 2. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Mav) Part 2 of 4.

8.25 Endeavour. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 3. A grisly discovery in a college garden raises suspicion among a celebrated Oxford orchestra.

10.00 House Of Gods. (PGl, R) Isa struggles to meet his financial commitment.

11.00 Happy Valley. (Malv, R)

12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 10.10 Vintage Voltage. (PGl) 11.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. Artistic Apparatus World Cup. H’lights. 4.00 France: A Journey Through Time. (R) 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R) 5.35 WWII Women On The Frontline. (PGav)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. (PGa)

8.30 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication. (PGa)

9.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (PGav, R)

10.30 Those Who Stayed. (Mal)

11.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo.

3.30 Face To Face. (Ma, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG)

12.00 Horse Racing. The All-Star Mile and Chandon Ladies Day.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A man makes a shocking confession.

7.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019, Ml, R) American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles try to build a race car for Ford so they can defeat Ferrari. Matt Damon, Christian Bale.

10.35 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017, MA15+v, R) A getaway driver gets involved in a doomed heist. Ansel Elgort.

1.00 The Arrangement. (Mav, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Get Clever. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6am Lola. Continued. (1961, PG, French) 7.10 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 9.20 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 11.10 American Hustle. (2013, M) 1.40pm A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG)

SUNDAY, March 17

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 Aust. (R) 2.30 Dream Gardens. (R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R)

3.30 Cook And The Chef. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.40 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.30 The ABC Of... (PG, R)

6.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

6.30 Compass. (PGa)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Mv) A former children’s home resident is murdered.

8.30 House Of Gods. (Mls) Batul’s politicking is interrupted by the possibility of motherhood.

9.30 Happy Valley. (Malv, R) A body is found in a drained reservoir.

10.30 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PGln, R)

11.20 Harrow. (Final, Mav, R)

12.15 Significant Others. (Madl, R)

1.05 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.05 Catalyst. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.10 Vintage Voltage. (PGl) 11.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 12.00

WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 12.55 Starblasters Cricket. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. (R) 2.30 Volleyball. Australian Beach Tour. Gold medal matches. 4.30 Cycling. Paris-Nice. H’lights. 5.30 Lisbon & WWII: Spies, Gold And Diplomacy. (PGa)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Emerald Isles With Ardal O’Hanlon. (PGa) Part 1 of 3.

10.30 Pompeii: The Origins. (Mv, R)

11.30 Egypt’s Lost City of Canopus. (PG, R)

12.25 Spain’s Secret Conquest. (Mav, R)

2.45 Chernobyl: The New Evidence. (PGa, R)

3.40 Grayson Perry: Divided Britain. (Ml, R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R) 1.00 To Be Advised.

3.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Seven News At 5.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

8.30 Lockerbie. (PGav) Part 1 of 4. Documents the investigation into the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.

10.30 Quantum Leap. (Return, Mav)

11.30 Autopsy USA: Gilda Radner. (Ma)

12.30 MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Death In Paradise. (2006, Masv, R)

9GO! (83)

(PG)

6.00 Fishing Aust. (R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00

Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 1.00 Fish Forever. (Premiere) 1.30 Drive TV. (Return)

2.00 Space Invaders. (PG, R)

3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Manly Sea Eagles v Sydney Roosters.

6.00 Deal Or No

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

(R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

7.40 The Dog House. A couple dream of very different dogs.

8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Mad, R) NSW Ambulance crews race to a call for a slashed throat and perform life-saving CPR on teens.

9.40 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R)

The ambulance service calls for help.

10.55 So Help Me Todd. (PGv, R)

11.50 FBI: International. (Md, R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.30 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (PG) With only days remaining, someone’s in the firing line and another must make an impossible choice.

8.40 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) After ransomware is used to cause the controls on a dam to malfunction, Ernie is tasked with finding the culprit.

10.40 FBI: International. (Mv, R)

The fly team chases a tech tycoon.

11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

9GO! (83)

Johnny Cash: The Man In Black Britain. 5.40 Talking Language. 6.10 News. 6.20 Wild West. 7.30 Murder In Big Horn. 8.30 The Song Keepers. 10.00 Late Programs.

ONTHEBOX

MONDAY, March 18

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Australia Remastered. (R)

2.00 Parliament Question Time.

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.10 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (R) 9.30

Make Me A Dealer. (R) 10.20 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. 11.10 Food Markets: In The Belly Of The City. (PGa, R) 12.10 WorldWatch.

2.00 Blitz Spirit With Lucy Worsley. (PGav, R)

3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R)

5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) Roo proceeds with caution.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie. 8.30

4.20 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Beauty

And The Beast. Continued. (2014, PG, French) 7.25 Mr Holland’s Opus. (1995, PG) 10.05 La La Land. (2016, M) 12.25pm Sex, Lies And Videotape. (1989, M) 2.20 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 4.05 About Elly. (2009, PG, Persian) 6.15 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 8.30 Dr Strangelove. (1964, PG) 10.20 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 12.30am Room. (2015, M) 2.40 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, March 19

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 One Plus One. (a, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.20 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By Season.

11.00 Food Markets: In The Belly Of The City. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.10 The 2010s. (R) 3.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30

Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00

7.30

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Railway Journeys UK. (R)

11.05 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlv) 12.00 Miniseries: Bonnie And Clyde. (MA15+av, R) 12.40 Trom. (Malv, R) 3.10 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mal, R)

4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

7MATE (64)

9GO! (83)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (PG) With only the final four contestants remaining, tensions are on the rise as deals are exposed.

8.40 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+v, R) The team searches for a businessman wanted for murder and an embezzlement scheme.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

NITV (34)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (Final, PG) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

9.15 Aaron Chen Comedy Special. (PGal) A stand-up comedy performance of Aaron Chen’s If Weren’t Filmed, NobodyWouldBelieve show.

10.15 NCIS. (Mdv, R) A navy commander is killed.

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Dr Strangelove. Continued. (1964, PG) 7.00 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 9.20 Race. (2016, PG) 11.50 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 2.40pm The Movie Show. 3.15 The Music Of Silence. (2017, PG) 5.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 6.55 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 8.30 Drive My Car. (2021, MA15+, Japanese) 11.50 Sound Of Metal. (2019, M) 2am Late Programs.

7MATE (64)

Court Camaraderie

FROM Page 48

Rebecca explained how much wheelchair basketball meant to her son.

“The camaraderie and inclusivity exhibited by the other players have turned

wheelchair basketball into more than just a sport for Max, it's become a welcoming community that embraces diversity and differences,” she said.

“The Friday sessions have become a highlight of Max's week, thanks to the support of

his school, which recognises the significance of his participation.

“He has found solace, support, and a sense of belonging in the local wheelchair basketball community.

“He just loves team sport, and being part of a team.

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NITV (34)

Wellington Paranormal. 8.40 Ice Cowboys. 9.30 Over The Black Dot. 10.15 Rugby League. English Super League. Salford Red Devils v Wigan Warriors. Replay. 12.15am Late Programs.

“And they don’t have to be in a wheelchair to play, they can be able-bodied.”

Rebecca thanked the efforts of the session organiser in working with Max.

“I wish to commend the organiser, Rob Piper, for his unwavering patience and dedication, particularly in providing Max with one-on-one time during training sessions,”

she said,

“I believe Max's story exemplifies the positive impact of community support, inclusivity, and the dedication of individuals like Rob Piper.”

The Coffs Harbour wheelchair basketball community are also planning to expand by introducing potential Tuesday sessions at Sportz Central.

WEDNESDAY, March 20

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Q+A. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R)

2.00 Parliament Question Time.

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.20 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 10.10 Kew

Gardens: Season By Season. 11.00 Food

Markets: In The Belly Of The City. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30

Insight. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s

Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05

Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Australia’s Sleep Revolution. (PGa)

8.30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (Premiere, M)

9.30 Kin. (Final, MA15+alv)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Blinded. (Malns)

11.45 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mal)

3.05 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Ms, R)

4.00 Bamay. (R)

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

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News.

12.00 MOVIE:

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away.

7.30 The 1% Club. (Final, PGls)

8.35 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.35 Crime Investigation Australia: The Cangai Siege. (MA15+alv, R) A look at the 1993 Cangai siege.

(PGa, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping.

6am The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 7.35 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 9.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 10.55 The Amazing Catfish. (2013, M, Spanish) 12.35pm The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 2.45 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 5.00 Dr Strangelove. (1964, PG) 6.50

THURSDAY, March 21

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Compass. (PGa, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Whale With Steve Backshall. (R) 2.00 Parliament.

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.15 Grand Designs. (R)

6.30

7.00

7.30

11.20

12.05

1.55

Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.30 Catalyst. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.45 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 10.35 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. 11.25 Vanitas. 12.00 WorldWatch.

2.00 Surviving An American Concentration Camp. (Ma) 3.00 Where Are You Really From? (PG, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s

Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 5.05

Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00

Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Bettany Hughes: The Silk Road Treasures.

8.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PGl)

9.20 The Vanishing Triangle. (Malv)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Illegals. (Premiere, Malv)

11.40 Unseen. (Maln, R)

3.25 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mas, R)

4.20 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGads)

7.30

9GO! (83)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Ma) NSW Ambulance delivers a baby and saves a four-year-old with a critical heart condition.

9.40 FBI: International. (Mav) The FBI Fly Team heads to Austria to find an American teen who was kidnapped as a child.

12.30 The Project. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

9GO! (83)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.40 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.40 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav, R) The team joins forces with Elliot Stabler.

10.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Court Camaraderie

By Aiden BURGESS

A YOUNG sportslover has been embraced by Coffs Harbour’s wheelchair basketball community following a challenging medical diagnosis.

Eight-year-old Max Farr was recently diagnosed with Perthes disease, which has meant he cannot run or jump.

Active in a number of sports before the diagnosis, the St Augustine’s student now takes part in weekly wheelchair basketball sessions on Friday afternoons from 2pm-4pm at Sportz

“After his diagnosis he can’t run or jump, and he previously played basketball and soccer and was a good runner and

was also a swimmer,” she said.

“He is in a wheelchair when he is outside and on crutches when

he is inside, and his restrictions will be lifted in a few years and he will be able to run again.

“Wheelchair

basketball has given him comfort and has meant he can still play sport.”

CONTINUED Page 46

Central. Max’s mother Rebecca said wheelchair basketball has allowed him to keep playing sport.