Coffs Coast News Of The Area 16 MAY 2025

By Andrea FERRARI

SCHEDULE

q Crisis Support Manager Sunjii Doohan, Senior Operations Manager Ash Kady, digital media guru Rex Clutario, and General Manager of Lifeline North Coast Angela Martin.

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

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EDITOR

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Time to get pushy in support of Lifeline

FROM Page 1

4 to 26 June, participants will aim to complete 3,214 push-ups over 23 days to honour that number of suicide deaths in Australia in 2023.

Each day’s push-up target reflects a mental health fact, helping to raise awareness while encouraging daily movement and connection.

Participants can modify the challenge by setting their own push-up target, or completing the reps as sit-ups, squats, or any other exercise.

Progress is tracked using a fun and interactive app.

“This is more than just a fitness challenge, it’s a meaningful and powerful way to bring our community together,” said General Manager of Lifeline North Coast Angela Martin.

“The Push-Up Challenge starts important conversations, reduces stigma, and reminds us all how vital it is to check in on the people around us and take care of our own mental wellbeing.”

The event is open to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Ms Martin is encouraging local workplaces, gyms, schools, and sporting clubs to register a team and select Lifeline North Coast as their chosen beneficiary.

“This is a chance for our region to come together with purpose,” she said.

“Whether you do one push-up or three thousand, every rep helps us create a stronger, more connected and mentally healthy community.”

With more people than ever before reaching out to Lifeline for support, funds raised through the Push-Up Challenge will help the organisation deliver critical local services, such as the 13 11 14 crisis line, suicide prevention training, and mental health programs on the Mid North Coast.

The event is free to join, with the option to fundraise.

In 2024 alone, over 218,000 participants

Koala fencing repairs underway

By Andrew VIVIAN

IN GOOD news for local koalas, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has confirmed that repairs and maintenance of koala fencing along the freeway near Repton is well underway.

A spokesperson said that TfNSW takes the protection of koalas very seriously and takes every reasonable measure to ensure their wellbeing.

He said that, during the development of the Bonville Bypass, detailed assessment of local fauna species was conducted in collaboration with subject matter experts and an extensive system of exclusion fencing suitable for these species was installed.

completed 317 million push-ups and raised more than $12 million for mental health services, bringing the total raised since the Challenge began to over $50 million.

Research from the University of Melbourne shows the lasting impact of the event.

Participants reported significant improvements in mental wellbeing, resilience, and social connection, and those experiencing mental health challenges were more likely to seek help and adopt positive self-care strategies after the challenge.

To register, support a team, or donate, visit www.thepushupchallenge.com.au.

The project also included transverse crossing opportunities designed specifically for koalas which included dedicated fauna crossing culverts, dual use drainage/fauna culvert structures, crossing infrastructure at bridge abutments and the multi award winning fauna overpass.

The spokesperson said planned fauna fence maintenance work between Mailmans Track interchange and Archville Station Road Interchange, Bonville, started last month and is expected to take about 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Work includes vegetation clearing along the fauna fence corridor and identified fence repairs.

More generally, TfNSW says it uses several mitigation measures across the state that comply with relevant conservation plans and have been developed in consultation with leading experts in the field.

It not only uses proven techniques, such as fencing and connectivity structures, but is also exploring emerging technologies to help further reduce wildlife vehicle strikes and enhance habitat connectivity.

TfNSW said it is collaborating proactively with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) NSW Koala Strategy to identify and prioritise koala vehicle hotspots on existing roads around the state that require intervention.

q Members of Lifeline North Coast getting into the Push-Up Challenge.

q Lantana along protective fencing is being cleared. Photo: TfNSW.

MEETING SCHEDULE

to call extraordinary meetings if needed.

FROM Page 1

monthly to once a month.

Currently Ordinary Council meetings are generally held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from February to December.

Under the proposed change, the Council would meet once a month –scheduled for the fourth Thursday – with the ability

The change would mean Council would schedule a minimum of 11 meetings a year, down from between 16 and 20 meetings a year.

The City of Coffs Harbour states that a monthly meeting cycle would allow

for improved “efficiency of council operations as well as allowing more time for council staff to implement decisions and prepare reports”.

Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said CoCH is “committed to transparency and meaningful community

Questions as train cut for coaches

By Andrea FERRARI

LOCAL rail travellers are questioning NSW TrainLink’s handling and timing of service cutbacks.

For the next 12 months, refurbishment of the state’s existing XPT train fleet means there will be a premium coach service between Grafton and Sydney Central.

There will be two services each way daily, providing an express and a selected stops service to minimise journey time, a NSW TrainLink spokesperson told News Of The Area.

The two options to go by train, direct from Coffs to Sydney Central, are at 11.02am and 22.10pm.

There are three coach options and one train/coach option, which requires waiting at Wauchope station for four hours and 37 minutes.

work is to ensure that the fleet continues to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable service until the next generation Regional Rail Fleet is ready to be introduced,

“The refurbished XPT program is progressing with upgrades including new windows, seating, painting, and reliability improvements already underway on 17 passenger and power cars.”

However, there are only 48 seats available on a coach compared to a five or sixcarriage train providing capacity for around 320 passengers.

One Coffs train user who asked not to be named, is frustrated that the coaches have not replaced the trains like-for-like.

different service and missing out local stops at Sawtell, Nambucca and Macksville stations, stopping at either Taree or Wauchope, and missing all the other stations in between to Sydney Central.

“It is not stated if there is more than one coach per service on the new timetable.

“This is downright poor management in maintaining the existing fleet of XPTs over their whole service time.”

TrainLink said the SydneyGrafton route was chosen to be provided by a temporary coach service as it causes the least disruption to passengers, with lower patronage and alternative daily train services still being available.

important.

“We all know the impact that metropolitan users complain of when their services are interrupted, however there seems little concern for non-metropolitan

engagement”.

“We want to hear from a broad cross-section of the community about how this change might impact them,” he said.

To have your say on the proposal, visit https://haveyoursay. coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/

train users, [who are] expected to suffer for 12 months.”

The new Regional Rail Fleet currently stands at three new trains in Australia, “and throughout 2025 and beyond we will see more trains arriving.

“There is a huge amount of work to be done and a timeline

proposedcouncilmeetings and complete the questionnaire. Consultation will close on 4 June 2025. Feedback will be presented to Council in June. If passed, the new meeting schedule will take effect from July 2025.

for the delivery of the balance of the trains will be confirmed once the manufacturing, testing and assurance phase has been completed.”

No other regional train services are affected by this temporary change.

The XPT fleet has been in service for 40-plus years.

The spokesperson said that the refurbishment

“That’s not good enough for the Coffs Coast patronage,” another user said.

“The 6.26am-15.44pm train was scrapped altogether and is replaced by three separate buses all leaving at 5.15am,” he said.

“Each is providing a

“Our region may provide less passengers and business for TrainLink compared to our metropolitan friends, but our travel needs are just as

q Coaches are replacing some trains between Coffs and Sydney Central while refurbishments continue.

Business support for GKNP doubles

By Andrew VIVIAN

THE number of businesses declaring their support for a Great Koala National Park (GKNP) has risen to more than 200 in the wake of a recent gathering at the Jetty Beach House.

An open letter from 100 of these businesses has been delivered to Parliament by Kevin Doye and Lindy Davis, who were joined by Greens MP and spokesperson for the environment Sue Higginson, and former Executive Director of the Wilderness Society Alec Marr.

Representing businesses from across the NSW MidNorth Coast, the letter was addressed to Premier Chris Minns and Environment Minister Penny Sharpe, and calls for the NSW Government

to immediately gazette the full 176,000 hectare GKNP to protect the local economy and community.

The businesses point out that promotion of the area is built around a healthy natural environment, with forests, clean rivers and beaches.

“Logging and clearing… by Forestry Corporation across large swathes of our local public forest estate, is directly impacting the entire economy by removing and degrading our most valuable tourism asset,” the letter reads.

“This causes major compounding losses for all in our region.”

The business leaders expressed concern that pollution in the CoffsClarence Regional Water Supply catchment could

necessitate a $65 million filtration system, funded by the community.

They also highlighted that Forestry Corporation NSW does not pay rates and yet its heavy vehicles and machinery damages roads, with the local community and businesses meeting the cost of repairs.

They say that protecting and repairing forests would provide water security and support the agricultural, horticultural, tourism and fisheries industries, and all nature conservation.

The letter further states, “We recognise the essential values of the publicly owned forests of our region that sustain our economy, sustain our people and ensure a safe future”.

Kim Towner who owns

the Happy Frog Café and runs the Harbourside Markets at Coffs said, “It is so valuable for our economy and, as a business owner involved in tourism, it will directly impact positively on tourism in our area.”

Expert fishing guide, Chris Cahill, from Chris Fish Ventures Sandy Beach, said, “Healthy, intact native forests are needed for good healthy fish populations.”

“Logging pollutes the rivers with mud.

“We need the Great Koala National Park to look after our rivers and the fish in them.”

The letter also states, “All publicly owned forest cover and Koala habitats in these areas must be protected from logging to ensure maintenance of their tourism drawcard value, to protect water quality and to prevent any harm to the biggest coastal koala colony in NSW.”

Industry reps join tourism committee

THE City of Coffs Harbour Council endorsed seven local tourism representatives to join the Destination Coffs Coast Committee (DCCC) at

its 1 May meeting.

“The committee plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of tourism and the visitor

economy on the Coffs Coast, providing advice, advocacy and leadership in close collaboration with the City,” Council said in a statement.

“It champions stakeholder voices and leads a strong engagement program focused on sustainable industry growth,

training and networking.”

The following members have been appointed from the local industry: Harry Barry, Tiga Cross, Lydia Crossingham, Michael Lockman, Gill Robson, Kamla Ruthnam and Glenn Storrie. They will join Council representatives Councillor George Cecato and Councillor Cath Fowler, as well as representatives from the three Business Chambers, as part of the committee.

q Lindy Davis, Sue Higginson and Kevin Doye with the letter. Photo: supplied.

Antimony exploration opposed

By Andrew VIVIAN

CONCERNED community groups will hold a community meeting on Friday, 31 May to discuss the issue of antimony mining on the Dorrigo Plateau.

The meeting will be convened by the Bellingen Environment Centre, the Blicks River Guardians and Lock the Gate Nambucca Valley.

Antimony is a valuable component in various manufacturing processes such as flame retardants, lead-acid batteries, and semi-

conductors, as well as in solar panels, glass manufacturing, and military technologies like missile guidance systems, night vision equipment, and nuclear weapons.

Its ability to resist heat and corrosion, combined with its conductive properties, makes it indispensable in both traditional industries and emerging technologies.

China has long been the major global producer of antinomy, and last year tightened its exports of the mineral following political tensions with the United States (US).

Consequently, the US classified antimony as a critical mineral and has granted it exemption from President Trump’s new tariff regime.

With demand rising and supply chains under strain, the antimony market is booming, with prices hitting $80,000 per metric ton during April (a 40-year high), making reconsideration of historical antimony deposits attractive to mining companies.

Prospecting for metals such as antimony has been occurring on the Dorrigo plateau for many years.

Currently environment groups are concerned about proposed exploration of antimony and tungsten deposits at Wild Cattle Creek.

A previous attempt by Anchor Resources to prospect in the area was highlighted in a report on ABC’s 7:30 program in 2011.

Its exploration licence has been acquired by Trigg Minerals, which is seeking investors to advance the project.

The Clarence Catchment Alliance (CCA) is one of the groups calling for urgent action that they say is needed

to protect the critical drinking water catchment for over 80,000 people in the Clarence Valley and Coffs Harbour regions.

The Alliance says that, under the NSW Government’s Critical Minerals Strategy, exploration licences are now being fast-tracked.

The group is also concerned about a lack of consultation with local landholders.

“We are not anti-mining as such, but are anti-mining in sensitive areas,” said CCA coordinator Shae Fleming.

“As well as being in the drinking water catchment, this area is a flood zone and contains culturally sensitive sites and endangered species.”

Ms Fleming said there are more than 40 exploration licences or applications that could adversely affect the Clarence catchment.

Her group and others are calling for an immediate halt to exploratory licences across the water catchment, a full review of licence approvals, and political support for a Notice of Motion tabled by Clarence MP Richie Williamson to strengthen protections.

The Nationals MP’s motion will ask the State Parliament to “act with urgency to declare the Clarence electorate mining free” and acknowledge that

Cr Tree steps down from Bellingen Council

BELLINGEN Shire Council has accepted the resignation of councillor and Deputy Mayor Ellie Tree.

In 2021, Cr Tree made history as the youngest councillor ever elected to Bellingen Shire Council.

“Being a councillor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” said Cr Tree.

“I immersed myself fully in this role with a commitment to serve our community wholeheartedly and to the best of my ability.

“However, the structural realities of regional local government make it challenging for young, working women to sustain such roles.”

Alongside her Council role, Cr Tree works as a Community Impact Strategist at ShoreTrack, is pursuing a post graduate degree in Social Impact, and is a mother of three.

Mayor Steve Allan acknowledged Cr Tree’s impact and contribution, saying she will be “greatly

missed”.

“It’s been a privilege to work alongside Ellie as Deputy Mayor and as a valued colleague on Council.

“Her ability to connect with the community - particularly through her communications on social media - has played an important role in keeping our residents informed and engaged.

“Through her support of initiatives like YOUth Speak, Ellie has helped bridge the gap between young people and Council decision-making.

“I want to sincerely thank her for her service, her compassion, and her enduring commitment to making the Shire a more inclusive and connected place.”

In accordance with Section 291A of the Local Government Act 1993, Council will refer the casual vacancy to the NSW Electoral Commission for a countback election.

This process allows for the vacancy to be filled by recounting votes from the last ordinary election, rather than holding a by-election.

the “Richmond and Clarence Valleys have a wonderful natural beauty and environmentally sensitive areas that need protection from mining”.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh also stated he and his party oppose antimony mining in the Clarence and Coffs Harbour electorates.

Andre Booyzen, Managing Director of Trigg Minerals Ltd, said Trigg is committed to working with the local community at Wild Cattle Creek.

“To date we have not engaged with the whole community, but we fully intend to do so in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

“We understand that there is a small group in the area that opposes all forms of mining.

“We will definitely engage with this group as well and hope to help them understand what we are planning.”

Mr Booyzen said antimony in its mined form is called stibnite, and is not toxic.

“It is important that they understand that there is very little risk to the community and the environment,” he said.

“We are a responsible mining company and comply with the guidelines and rules of the NSW Government."

The 31 May community meeting will begin at 2pm at 16 Cudgery St, Dorrigo.

q Old antimony mining equipment.

Photo: Meredith Stanton.

q Councillor Tree with Mayor Steve Allan.

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Review launched into ‘doli incapax’

A NEW study by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has found a significant decline in the number of young people aged 10 to 13 years found guilty of a criminal offence in NSW, following a landmark High Court of Australia decision in 2016.

The decision in the case of RP v R clarified the application of the legal principle of “doli incapax”, which presumes that children under 14 years are incapable of criminal responsibility unless proven otherwise.

The High Court's 2016 decision clarified that to rebut the presumption of doli incapax, the prosecution must prove that the child understood their actions were seriously wrong, not merely naughty.

The judgement requires prosecutors to provide proof beyond merely showing that the child committed the offence, and that the offence was “obviously wrong”.

Following the ruling, the proportion of 10-13 year olds with a proven outcome in the NSW Children’s Court fell dramatically from 76 percent in 2015-16 to 16 percent in 2022-23.

Over the same period, the volume of 10-13 year olds charged by police has been mostly stable.

The decline in proven outcomes was accompanied by an increase in cases where all charges are withdrawn by the prosecution, rising from 12 percent in 2015-16 to 53 percent in 2022-23.

There has also been a notable decline in guilty pleas among this age group, falling from 54 percent in 2015-16 to 14 percent in 202223.

The findings highlight that, despite the formal age of criminal responsibility remaining

at 10 years, it is now very uncommon for a child aged under 14 to be found guilty of a crime in NSW.

Commenting on the findings BOCSAR Executive Director, Jackie Fitzgerald, said that the High Court decision appears to have made it more difficult to convict younger children.

“The trend is most evident in states such as NSW, Victoria and South Australia, which rely on a common law understanding of doli incapax,” she said.

“States which have defined doli incapax in legislation, such as Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania, have not shown a similar decline.

“The result raises questions about how best to support vulnerable young people who participate in crime at an early age in order to reduce future harm to themself and the community.”

Last week, following the release of BOCSAR’s findings, the NSW Government launched a review into doli incapax.

The review is being undertaken by former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew SC, and former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner, Mr Jeffrey Loy.

The pair will consider how the presumption of doli incapax is applied in criminal proceedings, the impact of its operation on options for intervention, what improvements could be made and a framework for legislation.

They will also consider how doli incapax interacts with the Young Offenders Act 1997 and the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020, and other relevant matters including community safety and the interests of children.

Stakeholders including victims’ groups, local and regional communities, Aboriginalled organisations and legal and government

stakeholders will be consulted as part of the review.

They are due to report back to the Attorney General in the second half of 2025.

Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said residents in his electorate would welcome the review.

“The people of Oxley have been calling for action on youth crime, and a review into doli incapax is a step they’ve been asking for.

“The ancient presumption that kids under 14 can’t understand right from wrong isn’t fit for purpose today.

“When young people are posting videos of their crimes online or running from police, it raises serious questions about their level of understanding.

“The aim isn’t to punish kids, but to protect communities while making sure we’re giving every young person the best chance to make better choices.”

Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call (02) 4981 8882 or email

You risk more than your own safety going a few K’s over.

No matter how quiet it is, or how many times you’ve driven the road, every kilometre over the speed limit increases the risk of a serious crash.

Isn’t it time we got serious about casual speeding?

Surprise cash purchase tips cops to huge cocaine stash

By Savannah MEACHAM, AAP

A BOAT bought with $500,000 cash is what tipped police off to follow a group of men eventually caught in rough seas, allegedly importing a tonne of cocaine.

Police found it suspicious when a 13-metre-long motorboat was purchased with half a million dollars in cash in Sydney's Sutherland Shire on 28 April.

Two men, who are known to police, piqued the interest

of detectives and, during a week-long investigation, officers tracked them and the boat from Sutherland north through Newcastle.

More intelligence led to officers intercepting the boat in the rough ocean off Nambucca Heads on Friday.

It's lucky the operation didn't turn into a search and rescue situation due to the dangerous water conditions and lack of visibility, police say.

Once onboard the boat, officers made the shock

discovery of 1110 blocks of cocaine wrapped in black tarps weighing more than a tonne.

Police estimate the haul is worth $623 million on the street.

Detectives are investigating whether the drugs were handed over from another boat in NSW or Queensland waters.

"This dismantled what we allege was a sophisticated criminal plot to import more than one tonne of cocaine into Australia," Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Stephen Dametto told reporters.

"Allegedly collecting hundreds of kilograms of cocaine at sea shows the lengths organised crime will go to for their own greed and profit."

Two men, aged 24 and 26, were arrested onboard the boat, while another three men, aged 28, 29 and 35, were taken into custody on shore after officers stopped two cars trying to leave the area.

Police allege one of the men on shore helped to purchase the boat.

Further arrests have not been ruled out as police investigate the origin of the drugs.

Mr Dametto said previous incidents showed organised crime groups used certain methodologies such as purchasing large items with "unexplained wealth" to help with the mass delivery of drugs.

NSW Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Jason Weinstein said the seizure would be a massive hit to organised crime.

"Someone today is out of pocket with significant amounts of money," he said.

"And if you're looking for a boat, I suggest you look at the pages when the Crime Commission sell this boat, because there'll be one

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q The 13-metre motorboat was tracked off the NSW

q Two men were arrested on the vessel and another three men were nabbed on shore. Photo: NSW Police.

q More than a thousand blocks of cocaine were found on a motorboat off the NSW coast. Photo: NSW Police.

Storytime with the Mayor

By Andrea FERRARI

CITY of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams, will lead the local contribution to National Simultaneous Storytime on Wednesday, 21 May.

Cr Williams will read “The Truck Cat” between 10.30-11.30am at the Harry Bailey Memorial Library at Yarrila Place, Coffs Harbour.

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is held annually by the Australian

Library and Information Association (ALIA).

Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.

Now in its 25th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy.

This year’s book is by Deborah Frenkel and is a tale of cats, humans, immigration and identityand homes lost and found.

forward to reading The Truck Cat to the children”.

With much of her reading these days being Council business papers she said the appeal of fiction is it’s always such a great escape.

“Well away from the delights and the pressures of everyday life in the real world.”

She is looking forward to interacting with her young audience.

“I’m sure the kids will fire a few questions at me about the story.”

me to read when I was just four-years-old.

“When my [older] sister first started school, I used to go to my nan’s and beg her to teach me to read too.

“Reading a book to your child can help to provide that quiet moment to wind down before going to sleep.

“It also boosts that precious special connection between parent and child as both will be very much in the ‘now’ of the moment.”

q

Mum to three teenage daughters, Cr Williams read to her girls when they were younger. “It’s still a fab memory for them... their favourite story was ‘Where is The Green Sheep?’.

The venue for this program is the Story Space located on the ground floor of the library.

This is a free event requiring registration through Libraries Coffs Harbour.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

“My beautiful nan taught

Group for Dads in Distress

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Dads in Distress group is restarting in Coffs Harbour after a few years' lapse.

Founder Tony Miller OAM, is stepping back into the role of facilitator and holding weekly meetings every Tuesday night from 6pm-10pm in the Pioneer Cottage at Coffs Harbour Showground.

Dads in Distress supports dads experiencing trauma through family breakdown and separation anxiety, which often leads to stress, depression, isolation, and suicide.

“In this country the service is sadly needed now more than ever,” Tony told News Of The Area.

“We are inviting any men who need the support of other men or maybe even want to volunteer their support, to come along and have a coffee, a bickie and a yarn.”

The group’s first meeting last Tuesday saw four men

An avid reader who loves getting lost in a book, Mayor Williams told News Of The Area that she is “so looking attending.

They shared their stories and received guidance and support.

“Most of all they were heard.”

It was the breakdown of

q Tony Miller OAM started the ‘save the males’ campaign years ago, and received support from rock star Angry Anderson.

his own family relationship in 1999, and losing his home and being unable to work owing to anxiety, that led Tony Miller to set up Dads In Distress in 2000.

The founding group first

there’s minimal funding for men’s services.”

OAM for more information and contact details.

met on the veranda of the Neighbourhood Centre and then the mud huts in Duke Street.

It is now a national organisation, operated by Parents Beyond Breakup, with groups all over Australia and a 1300 853 437 call line.

“The group has saved many lives over the years, mostly dealing with men going through the devastation of separation and divorce but also [men] needing a safe place to express how they feel and gain some support from other men.”

In 2023, there were 2419 deaths by suicide for males and 795 deaths by suicide for females.

“That’s on average almost 47 male suicides every week, seven a day, with the highest demographic [being] males aged 30-59 years.

“If this many Aussie men were dying in a war at the moment it would be front page news, but it’s happening, and no one seems to care and

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“[There] are a lot of men in town as fly-in fly-out workers on construction of the by-pass, and many have left their families behind, putting a lot of stress on their marriages."

Tony believes schools have a part to play in navigating relationship breakdowns.

“Relationships and rejection should be school curriculum subjects as important as maths and English.

“There are no winners in divorce or separation, especially our children.”

See Facebook Tony Miller

All support is free, confidential, peer based and non-judgemental.

Tony was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division of the 2010 Queen’s Birthday honours for his contribution to the welfare of men through his role as the founder of Dads In Distress, . Parents Beyond Breakup (PBB) is an Australian Suicide Prevention Charity operating Dads in Distress (DIDs), Mums in Distress (MIDs) and Grandparents in Distress (GIDs).

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City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams is looking forward to reading the National Simultaneous Storytime book.

The woodblocking work of Hiroshige

By Andrea FERRARI

ARTSNATIONAL Coffs Coast’s April arts talk featured the work of Japanese woodblock master and innovator, Utagawa Hiroshige (17971858).

Titled “Hiroshige’s Woodblock Masterpieces and the Japanese Sensibility for Snow”, it was presented by cultural historian Dr Kathleen Olive.

Many people associate Japanese woodblock artworks with Hokasai (1760-1849) and his enduring Great Wave of Kanagawa masterpiece, Dr

Olive explained.

Hiroshige was born a generation later, during an unsettled time in Japan's history.

From a low-ranking Samurai family, he was an outsider to the closed world of painting academies. Nevertheless, he had a rare talent.

After many failed attempts, he finally secured an apprenticeship where he learned the craft of woodblock printmaking and produced a range of conventional, easy to sell works.

As Japan confronted the

encroaching outside world, Hiroshige's calm artistic vision connected with and reassured people at every level of society.

He went on to become one of the country's most talented, prolific and popular artists.

Hiroshige influenced the work of Van Gogh and, later, the American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who lived and worked in Japan.

Through East-West exchange, Hiroshige benefited from being exposed to new colours like Prussian Blue and vibrant magenta, bringing vibrancy to his otherwise

monochrome palette.

Dr Olive explained in detail the technical skills invoked in woodblock printing, such as the way negative on block is positive on page.

Hiroshige was a master at how to leave white or blank space, and how to extend the lifespan on a woodblock to extract the highest number of prints.

A highly imaginative scene creator and expert colourist, he could visualise scenes without ever seeing them.

He perfected techniques, such as bokashi, a form of subtle gradation which enabled his prints to look like miniature paintings.

For Dr Kathleen Olive, Hiroshige’s woodblock prints show the dynamic possibility of working with line, doing a lot with a little, and using a restricted colour palette to produce captivating landscapes and urban scenes.

“The small scale of the works, draws you in and invites questions,” she explained,

“He also displays a sense of humour, a clever use of puns, and was a technical genius.”

Hiroshige’s numerous woodblock prints of snow, rural and urban scenes, and the life of Edo Japan he

A partnership made for business

encountered on his many road trips, were “bold and surprising, especially to the Japanese eye at the time.”

ArtsNational’s next talk on Monday 19 May is titled Women at Work. For more information, go to www.artsnationalcoffscoast. au.

•

•

q The ‘silence of snow’ as Dr Olive described Hiroshige’s technical brilliance.

q Snow at Akashi by Hiroshige.

q Dr Olive with ArstNational Coffs Coast’s secretary, Natacha Borecky.

Tobacco trade inquiry launched

A PARLIAMENTARY inquiry was established on 7 May to report on the illegal tobacco trade in New South Wales.

Among a broad remit, the committee will inquire into links between organised crime syndicates and tobacconists, and

the utilisation of money laundering schemes by tobacconists.

The inquiry will also explore the impact of the illegal tobacco trade on small businesses and communities in regional NSW, and consider the to nature.

introduction of legal protections for landlords who lease to tobacconists.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, who serves as the Shadow Minister for Regional Health, said the inquiry had been established after

Landscapes at Nexus Gallery

By Andrea FERRARI

MID North Coast artist Lisa Zanderigo opens her landscape exhibition “Earth + Ochre” in The Studio at Bellingen’s Nexus Gallery on 25 May.

Living in Way Way for a “quieter life”, after many years in Sydney, Lisa’s latest show has a deep connection

It features a series of oil paintings inspired by a visit to the Red Centre and the West and East MacDonnell Ranges.

“The environment has weaved its way through my life, as it does many people’s lives - inspiring, engaging and relaxing,” Lisa said.

“But our treatment and attitude to it has also inspired anger, frustration and dread for what our future holds,

as we arrogantly consume and pollute our way to an environmental dystopia.

“The need to engage with the landscape today is all encompassing with the current climate and environmental crisis, as we consciously let it deteriorate and ‘don’t look up’.

“Landscape painting in Australia is heavily weighted with expectations.

“Historically, few have chosen not to engage with

“sustained pressure” from the Coalition.

He said the illegal tobacco trade was having a “major impact” on the health and safety of regional communities while putting enormous pressure on small businesses.

“Not only have we seen deteriorating health outcomes, but we’ve also seen rising crime rates as these gangs try to muscle their way onto the main streets of our cities and towns and intimidate genuine shop owners,” Mr

it and its enormity and weight on the Australian consciousness, particularly

Singh said.

“In regional, remote and rural areas there’s often a lack of capacity to do compliance checks which means this criminal activity is often happening in plain sight.”

NSW Health data shows the number of tobacconists across the state has risen from 14,500 four years ago to more than 19,500 today.

on… First Nations [peoples] connection to Country."

Lisa Zanderigo is an exhibiting visual artist of 40 years, with a Bachelor and MVA, from SCA, University of Sydney.

In her early career she worked in photomedia and installation, investigating ideas around identity, gender and sexuality.

In the noughties, dissatisfied with

photomedia’s shift to digital, Lisa’s mid-career practice shifted to working in painting, collage and mixed media.

In 2010 she completed a diploma in “Painting Like the Masters” at Charlie Sheard Studio and in 2021 completed “Australian Tonal Impressionism” at Pablo Tapia Studio Earth + Ochre is showing until 20 June.

q Lisa Zanderigo’s Trephina Gorge oil on board.

q Terra Rossa oil on canvas by Lisa Zanderigo.

q Dusk on the Ranges oil on linen by Lisa Zanderigo.

Mystery drive for The Mad Hatters

By Andrea FERRARI

LAURA Orr and her dad Steve Parkin are preparing for their second Mystery Box Rally.

The five-day-long distance event will raise funds for the Cancer Council and its medical research.

Teams of two will set off from Broken Hill on 15 August in cars more than 25-yearsold. They will then follow a mystery route that is only revealed as they set off each morning.

Generally, the terrain

is off-the-beaten-track, so the old cars need to be up to the challenge of heavily corrugated dirt roads.

Four-wheel drives and AWD vehicles are not permitted.

Laura said this will add to the adventure and fun and, more than likely, the probability of mechanical issues.

Last year the long-time Korora resident and her dad, a former Coffs local, drove a 1993 Ford Falcon sporting a Harry Potter theme that was dubbed the “Hogwarts Xpress”.

This year the pair has gone for an Alice in Wonderland theme, decking the car out in playing cards and whimsical characters and naming themselves The Mad Hatters.

Having raised $17,180 for the cause in 2024, they are keen to match, if not exceed, that effort.

“We travelled 2631km in five days, with 1253km of that on unsealed dirt roads, on a round trip from Airlie Beach all the way up to Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria,” Laura told News Of The Area.

“We also won a trophy for

best dressed team.”

Most of the 300-plus participants in 2024 had been affected by cancer in one way or another, whether that be their own diagnosis or that of a loved one.

“Many people had lost family or friends to this disease, and the experiences and stories we shared over the five days will stay with us forever.

“One couple had travelled from their home in France just to participate, and after signing up, received news that their father was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer.

“Sadly, he passed away a few months after they returned home.

“Likewise, last year, after signing up to do the rally in honour of my niece who survived childhood leukemia, both my husband and best friend were given cancer diagnoses.

“Thankfully, both are doing amazingly well,” she said.

Since their launch in 2009, the Mystery Box Rallies have funded 63 cancer research projects in partnership with Cancer Council Australia and run five fundraising projects annually.

To support The Mad Hatters, go to the rally website or follow their journey on Instagram @madhatters_ mysterybox.

• Coffs Harbour Waste Transfer Station planning $500k

THE City of Coffs Harbour (City) has invited the community to provide feedback on its draft Delivery Program (20252029) and Operational Plan (FY 25/26).

The Delivery Program and Operational Plan set out the City’s key projects and activities over the

Council’s four-year term.

Capital asset projects of almost $64 million are contained within the draft Operational Plan for the 2025-26 financial year.

Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said capital projects are prioritised based on the City’s capacity to deliver.

2025/26 capital projects include:

• New amenities at Len Towels Oval, Nana Glen, $840k

• Toormina Sports Complex new playing field, carpark and footpaths new amenities $720k

• Moonee Sports Complex feasibility study $50k

• Woolgoolga Pool heat pumps renewal $60k

• Annual Sewer

Main Relining Project

$1.1m

• North Boambee Valley flood detention basin $3.256m

• Stormwater drainage renewal program $1m

• Remediation of Loaders Lane Flood Levee (NSW Government Grant) $518k

• North Boambee Road road-raising and infrastructure works $7m

• O'Keefe Drive pavement renewal (design)

$2.2m

• West Woolgoolga Newmans Rd Intersection $795k

• Upper Orara Way road culvert renewal $780k

• Arrawarra Beach Road road renewal $620k

• South Coffs Cycleways $273k

• First and Second Ave footpaths renewal, Sawtell, $130k

• Solitary Islands Way Water Main Duplication Project $1.5m

• Coffs Harbour Arthur St water main construction $1m; and

• New Coffs Harbour Laboratory $2m. View the draft Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025/26 and provide feedback at https://haveyoursay. coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/ dpop.

q Laura Orr and her dad Steve Parkin in 2024, winning the Best Dressed team award. Photo: Mystery Box Rally.

q The car being raced in the Mystery Box Rally 2025.

q Laura Orr and Steve on the finish line in 2024.

Growing connections with nature

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Friends of the Botanic Gardens in Coffs Harbour are embracing the theme of Botanic Gardens Week, 19–25 May, with a series of free visitor activities in line with the powerful message, “Guardians of the Green: Protecting Our Future”.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this year’s

event highlights the critical role botanic gardens play in conservation, education, and community engagement.

Just as zoos conserve wildlife, educate the public, and connect people to animals, botanic gardens across Australia and New Zealand do the same for plants - safeguarding rare and threatened species, inspiring learning, and fostering deep

connections with nature.

According to Botanic Gardens of Australia and New Zealand CEO Cassandra Nichols, “Botanic gardens are so much more than people realise.

“Like zoos, they are essential in protecting our natural world.

“By visiting your local botanic garden, you are supporting our future.”

As part of this international network, Coffs’ botanic garden will be running Botanic Gardens Week events that immerse visitors in all these themes, including free walks and seed bank tours.

“We are very proud of the work we do here to protect endangered species, both plant and animal such as our work with the Syzygium glenum tree, and plants such as the endangered swamp orchid and king ferns,” Friends of the Garden

President, Graham Tupper told News Of The Area.

“The garden is a 20-hectare nature refuge offering a signposted path network of over 5km.

“More than half of the garden area is an old natural forest with an abundance of birds and other wildlife.

“More than 10,000 species live in the garden including gliders, koalas and the Powerful Owl.

“We hope locals will take advantage of some of the extra activities we have

in Botanic Garden Week, or maybe just take a stroll, bring a picnic, or book an e-buggy tour.”

On Wednesday there’s the Garden’s fundraiser for the Cancer Council, Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, Saturday’s schedule offers a free Seasonal Observations Walk and an arts event and on Sunday there’s the Our Habitat Our Home tour. Visit the garden website and socials for more details www.coffsbotanicgarden. com.au.

q The Powerful Owl, a threatened species living in the Botanic Gardens.

q The endangered Swamp Orchid is protected at the Botanic Garden.

Celebrating neighbourhood heroes

By Leigh WATSON AS AUSTRALIA marks

Neighbourhood Centre Week between 12–18 May and gears up for National Volunteer Week between 20–26 May, Woolgoolga Neighbourhood Centre is taking the

opportunity to honour the backbone of its operations - its dedicated volunteers.

"Neighbourhood Centres exist to deliver local solutions that help communities thrive, and at the heart of ours are our volunteers," said Centre Manager Rashmere Bhatti.

“The Centre is fortunate to have such a generous, talented group of people giving their time to support others.

“Our volunteers bring their life experience, skills, and heart to everything they do.

“They’re the face of the

centre, and we simply couldn’t operate without them,” Rashmere said.

The centre will host a volunteer appreciation lunch at Ground Earth Café as part of the dual celebrations, recognising the contribution of those who help keep their

vital community services running.

Neighbourhood Centres originated in the 1960s as part of a widespread Australian movement for self-help and welfare rights.

The Woolgoolga Neighbourhood Centre was established by the community in 1994 and is housed in one of the town’s oldest buildings, a former police station dating back to 1880.

The Centre has evolved into a vital hub of support, connection, and advocacy with strong community involvement and a reputation for delivering quality services.

Its work has been recognised with several government awards, including ‘Regional Achiever’ and ‘Neighbourhood Centre of the Year’.

With a strong focus on inclusivity, the centre also plays an important role in building cross-cultural knowledge and awareness.

“We are a service provider as well as a connector,” Rashmere said.

“We build capacity, advocate for local needs, and help our community by working with other welfare providers to find solutions.”

Despite not having secure ongoing funding, the Centre

continues to thrive through grant applications and strong partnerships.

“Unfortunately, the Neighbourhood Centre has to pay rent to the Coffs Harbour City Council for which funds also have to be found.”

Today, the Centre offers a wide range of services including counselling, information and referral, homework support, English language classes, IT help, and Centrelink support.

It also provides space for other organisations such as Mission Australia, Carers NSW, Real Futures, and NSW Community Corrections.

“The Christmas gift giving program for children at Christmas is a valuable service that many families look forward to, made possible by Woolgoolga Diggers and Ray White Real Estate.”

To celebrate the two major weeks, the centre is actively welcoming new volunteers.

“Volunteering doesn’t just help the community – it also helps those who volunteer by providing social connection, skills development, pathways to employment and linkages to the broader community,” she said.

To find out more, drop in to the Centre or contact Rashmere on 02 66541598 or by emailing manager@woolgoolga neighbourhoodcentre.org.au.

Bellingen Shire Council is inviting Expressions of Interest for the lease of the Visitor Information Centre building located on the corner of Giinagay Way and Bellingen Street in Urunga.

Boasting a prime location, this building lends itself to a variety of commercial or not-for-profit activities. The space should also incorporate provision of visitor information as part of its use.

Site visits are encouraged. Scan the QR Code or visit Council's website to find out more about the space and how to make a submission.

q Volunteers at last year’s Woolgoolga Neighbourhood Centre Open Day.

Libraries invite borrower reviews

By Andrea FERRARI

COFFS Harbour Libraries in Sawtell, Coffs and Woolgoolga, are placing book review slips in all their “Rapid Reads” collections and other new books on display.

Rapid Reads are best sellers and prize winners that have multiple copies on offer on a two week loan.

City of Coffs Harbour Acting Director City Planning and Communities Ian Fitzgibbon, said the reviews tell the Libraries’ team what members think of items in the collection.

“[They reveal] if the collection is meeting the needs of the community, and the types of books they want to read or items they want to loan,” he told News Of The Area.

“Staff and member reviews are included in the monthly Library eNewsletter and on the Libraries social media pages, helping other readers find out what someone else

thinks of a particular book and whether they have enjoyed it (or not).”

Recent reader reviews include:

- Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty: “A super page turner, I neglected all my regular jobs at home to read all weekend, something I rarely do! A good storyline, very original approach to a question we often ask ourselves. 5 stars.”

- We solve murders by Richard Osman: “Four and a half stars. What a hoot! A funny and heartwarming story mixed with murder and mayhem. And with characters you’ll fall in love with.”

- The Accident by Fiona Lowe: “Four stars. Enjoyed this story. Well written. Unexpected ending. Mac was my favourite character, would have liked more of him. ”

Since the Libraries now lend more than books, such as cake tins, board games, jigsaw puzzles, LEGO kits, STEAM resources and ukuleles,

feedback from members in written form is a useful way of surveying users to find out if the balance of resources is right.

“A great example of feedback helping inform our services is the LEGO loans collection,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

“We know from feedback that young people especially enjoy the LEGO kits, and they have requested more.”

The success of the LEGO Club, which started at Woolgoolga at the beginning of the year on Thursday afternoons during school term, means that the Libraries will be expanding the program to Toormina Library this term.

The introduction of this program was the direct result of feedback from the users of that collection.

Anyone can sign up to the Coffs Harbour Libraries eNewsletter at libraries. coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/ About-us or by following their social media feeds.

q

Sustainability focus for Bello Show

By Andrea FERRARI

THE SustainaBellingen Showcase program is back at the 2025 Bellingen Show, this year expanded to the full two days.

The Bello Show is scheduled for May 24-25 at the Bellingen Showground.

This free event will feature a significantly expanded SustainaBellingen Showcase, taking place in a dedicated marquee.

This year's sustainability programming features an impressive speaker lineup. It includes former ABC

Graham Creed discussing climate change impacts on agriculture, and local environmental educator and wildlife

Andrew “the Bird Guy" Turnbull, demonstrating how to attract birds to gardens and interpret bird alarms

to track predators.

"We're not shying away from challenging issues," said Bellinger River Agricultural Society President Susan Lumsdaine.

"Visitors can join conversations about affordable housing with the Housing Matters Action Group, learn about disaster preparedness from Neighbourhood Care Network's Weather Watch, and explore local solutions through interactive panel discussions."

Additional sustainability features include the short film "Whispers of Wilderness," demonstrations from Cascade Environmental School, home electrification information, and musical performances by Akabella and Bellingen Singers.

The event will also host interactive activities focused on sustainable fashion and understanding our local

catchment.

All SustainaBellingen Showcase events are free to attend once you are in the show.

Building on previous successes, the 2025 Show will feature ReThink Waste stations strategically placed throughout the grounds to collect and help sort waste into its proper disposal stream.

The popular Mug Library will also be back at all coffee vendor stalls.

These initiatives have previously reduced landfill waste from 16 cubic metres to just five cubic metres, with the Mug Library alone diverting more than 700 single-use coffee cups from landfill in 2024. For complete information, visit bellingenshow.com.au or follow the Bellingen Show on Facebook.

weatherman

naturalist

Library borrowers are asked to review Rapid Reads.

q Bellingen Show is shaping up as a traditional agricultural show.

q ‘SustainaBellingen Showcase’ program at Bello Show.

Volunteers ‘make everything possible’

By Andrea FERRARI

THIS National Volunteer Week, May 1925, Lifeline North Coast is recognising the individual and collective contributions of all the volunteers who ensure that every Australian has access to hope and connection all day, every day.

Lifeline North Coast General Manager Angela Martin, said that demand for services continues to be high, underlining the importance of

every volunteer who donates their time, skills, and passion to support the community.

“Every call, every message, every person helped - it all begins with our amazing volunteers,” Angela said.

“Their dedication, compassion, and unwavering presence power every conversation, every moment of support, and every life changed.

“Lifeline wouldn’t be Lifeline without them.”

Backed by Lifeline’s training, every volunteer provides genuine connection for people looking for help, hope or just someone to listen without judgement.

Ms Martin attributes their profound dedication and expertise in delivering specialist support which keeps so many people safe.

“Our beloved (OpShop) stores in Coffs Harbour, Toormina, Nambucca and

Grafton and our community and Fundraising events rely on the generosity of volunteers.

these raise goes directly back into local programs and services, helping us create safer, healthier communities for everyone.”

Ms Martin believes National Volunteer Week is a timely reminder to reflect on every volunteer’s individual and collective impact.

“At the heart of Lifeline is a simple truth, it is the volunteers who make everything possible.

“Lifeline volunteers show up - with empathy, strength, and hope, day after day, making sure we can be there for anyone who needs support.”

You can speak to a Lifeline Crisis Supporter over the phone on 13 11 14, via text on 0477 131 114, chat online at lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat or self-manage what you’re going through with Lifeline’s Support Toolkit at toolkit. lifeline.org.au.

All services are available 24/7.

Torana Day at Holden Museum

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Torana Club display held at The National Holden Motor Museum on Saturday 3 May attracted 14 vehicles from the Hunter Valley Torana Club, whose members had participated in a convoy to Coffs Harbour.

“The array of beautifully prepared vehicles included the Australian designed Torana LCs of 1969 through the range to the later performance models which ceased production in 1978 and were the basis for the car racing at Bathurst and Sandown,” Museum spokesperson Steve Little told News Of The Area.

The exhibition, in front of The Bunker on City Hill, attracted both serious Holden fans from the region plus visitors passing by who were drawn in by the colourful collection of vehicles on display.

The standout vehicle for the judges of the “Car of the Day Award” was Travis Sullivan’s highly modified 1977 Holden Torana LX SL/R 5000 which drew the most votes to also win the National Holden Motor Museum’s Choice Award.

“Despite the rain, there was an excellent crowd who appreciated the warming coffee and food at the Brock Café and viewing the latest Cartoon Exhibition,” Steve said.

“Many of the exhibitors

took the opportunity to purchase Holden memorabilia at The Bunker's shop.” The next exhibition

is a selection of the “very sought after and expensive” HSV Commodores on Sunday 18 May from 10am.

q Lifeline North Coast volunteers.

q The winning Holden Torana 1977 LX SL-5000 owned by Travis Sullivan, being marked by one of the judges.

q Torana car winner Travis Sullivan, friend Chris Ebe, Coffs City Rotary Club president Bob Carle and National Holden Motor Museum volunteer Chris Paynter.

BDC teacher wins Rising Star award

By Andrea FERRARI

KALI Rouillon, a primary school teacher at Bishop Druitt College (BDC) Coffs Harbour, has been awarded “The Educator” Rising Stars and School Leadership Award.

The award recognises teachers aged 35 or younger working in a role related to the K–12 education sector, who have demonstrated effective leadership, innovation, and achievement in their career to date.

Ms Rouillon has shown exceptional commitment to integrating digital technology into the classroom and inspiring students to engage creatively with their learning.

"I am incredibly honoured to receive this award,” she said.

“I believe technology in education is a tool for empowerment, creativity, and connection.

"My goal has always been to inspire my students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and express

themselves in diverse and creative ways.

“The results we have achieved together this year are a testament to the power of innovative thinking and the potential for technology to enhance learning experiences."

The Educator’s Managing Editor for Special Reports Chris Sweeney said, “The calibre of nominees was inspirational and underlined how bright the future of Australian education is.

“Kali Rouillon is at the forefront of this and is a deserved winner due to her ability to lead and innovate, coupled with her determination and passion to drive education standards higher.”

One of Ms Rouillon’s most significant accomplishments was the redesign and leadership of an innovative writing program underpinned by the principles of Deep Learning.

This initiative allows students to explore critical thinking, creativity,

communication, and collaboration in new and exciting ways.

The program also included a partnership with a robotics company, where students created functional robotic models and developed persuasive advertisements to promote their designs.

This project blended digital literacy with critical writing skills and empowered students to take ownership of their learning.

Kali also worked closely with an Apple consultant to integrate apps like GarageBand into the program, teaching students to create their own jingles for their digital advertisements.

This approach fostered a multi-modal learning experience, connecting music, technology, and writing, to allow students to express their ideas creatively and with confidence.

Her students have flourished creatively, improved their digital literacy skills, and developed stronger communication abilities, ensuring they are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly

Morning Tea with Breast Cancer Buddies

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Breast Cancer Buddies

Support Group in Coffs Harbour is hosting a “Tea, Treats and Togetherness” event at the Botanic Gardens, in support of Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser.

Everyone is invited to

this gathering on Wednesday, 21 May from 10am to 12pm, which will bring the community together to celebrate and support the valued work of the Cancer Council.

A gold coin donation covers drinks, a tasty treat, entertainment, and there will be chances to win prizes, with

all funds raised going directly to the Cancer Council.

The Breast Cancer Buddies Support Group, founded in 1996, is free and reaches out to anyone going through all stages of diagnosis, treatment, recovery and beyond.

Breast Cancer Buddies know how important this

support is.

Their message to anyone facing a cancer diagnosis is “You are not alone”.

“We have benefitted from Cancer Council's support, services and research for almost 30 years,” Coffs Breast Buddies coordinator Di Holt told News Of The Area.

“Our ongoing purpose is to provide a safe, welcoming and caring space where every person has the opportunity to openly share their breast cancer experiences, express their concerns and get helpful information.

“To feel supported and heard."

A focus of the group is on keeping everyone up-to-date with the latest breast cancer information, resources and research; as well as promoting practical strategies for managing treatment side effects and living well, during and after breast cancer.

“Cancer presents some unexpected challenges and changes in life that might look and feel distressing, isolating and even hopeless at times.

“Reaching out for support

changing world.

BDC Head of Primary Sarah Stokes praised Ms Rouillon’s work, emphasising how her efforts have had a transformative impact on the entire school community.

“Kali’s approach to teaching has truly set a new standard in how we think about learning at Bishop Druitt College.

“Not only has Kali inspired her students to explore new ways of thinking and communicating, but she has also worked tirelessly to share her knowledge and expertise with her colleagues.

“She embodies the essence of leadership in education.”

Ms Rouillon has shared her digital teaching practices with her peers, creating a collaborative environment where educators are empowered to embrace technology in their classrooms.

Ms Rouillon was previously School Learning Support Officer at Nana Glen Primary School and was awarded the Teachers Mutual Bank Future Teacher Scholarship Award in 2018.

from Cancer Council and groups like Breast Cancer Buddies can make a big difference in navigating the ups and downs of a cancer journey and finding hope along the way,” she said.

The Cancer Council Helpline is 131120.

q Bishop Druitt College (BDC) primary school teacher Kali Rouillon.

q Jodie Hocking and Melisa Dummer.

q JJodie Hocking, Kerrie Piper, Deb Lane and Melisa Dummer.

Fearless instrumentalists live in Coffs

LED by internationally-acclaimed percussionist Claire Edwardes, leading new music group Ensemble Offspring will present a concert like no other in Coffs Harbour on Sunday, 25 May.

“Many readers will have seen Claire’s solo marimba concert last year and been dazzled by her high voltage performance,” said Coffs Harbour Music Society President Leigh Summers.

Now Claire brings to Coffs Harbour a line-up of fearless instrumentalists, all soloists in their own right: Lamorna Nightingale on flutes, Jason Noble on clarinets and Rowena Macneish on cello.

Together with Claire these multiaward-winning musical trailblazers will present a program of new music by First Nations composers Brenda Gifford, Nardi Simpson, Nicole Smede and more.

“This not to be missed concert will share stories of culture, land, and identity, using contemporary chamber music richly informed by the deep-rooted traditions of First Nations storytelling,” Leigh said.

“Claire and her ensemble recognise and subvert the inequality of opportunities afforded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander composers in comparison to those afforded to non-Indigenous artists.

“The ensemble joyfully promotes and celebrates the enormous value that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

artists can offer the broader arts sector and cultural landscape.”

Instead of the Music Society’s usual preconcert talk, Ensemble Offspring will hold an improvisation workshop from 11:30am to 1pm at St John Paul College Theatre.

“Thanks to a grant from the City of Coffs Harbour the workshop is free,” Leigh said.

“No prior experience is necessary.

“People of all ages and abilities are warmly invited to attend, just bring your instrument and be prepared to have great fun with these world class musicians.”

Following the workshop, the concert begins at 3pm at the St John Paul College Theatre.

For more information and tickets contact Coffs Harbour Music Society.

q Ensemble Offspring.

By Manny WOOD

Appointment of Enduring Guardians under attack

BETTY appoints two of her daughters as her enduring guardians.

The documentation is executed by Betty in the presence of a solicitor who witnesses her signature and explains the effect of the document to Betty.

Her daughters later sign acceptances of their roles as guardians and again their signatures are witnessed by a solicitor.

The effect of the guardianship is that if Betty becomes unable to make medical and lifestyle decisions for herself, her daughters will be empowered to do so on her behalf.

Betty’s daughters are appointed “jointly and severally” which allows either one of them to make decisions as guardian.

Betty is admitted to hospital ten years later, with a diagnosis of dementia with cognitive impairment and suffering from respiratory failure.

The Consultant Physician at the hospital makes an urgent application to the Guardianship Division of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT), seeking the appointment of the Public Guardian to make medical decisions on Betty’s behalf. NCAT has the power to make orders which override Betty’s Appointment of Enduring Guardian.

The Tribunal hears that in relation to her medical treatment, based on their religious beliefs, Betty’s daughters wanted “everything done” including admission to intensive care and cardiopulmonary resuscitation and intubation, despite medical advice that it would “certainly have a bad outcome in the unlikely event that it was successful”.

The Tribunal also hears that Betty’s daughters refused to agree to the administration of morphine for pain relief and that they rejected attempts to discuss palliative care.

The Tribunal states that whilst the “starting point” is the documented Appointment of Enduring Guardian which was duly executed by Betty, when she had the capacity to do so, the Tribunal was not satisfied that the guardians had given close consideration or objectively considered the proposed treatment plans.

Although the Tribunal did “not doubt the love and concern” that Betty’s daughters have for her, the Tribunal suspended the operation of her enduring guardian appointment and appointed the Public Guardian who can take a “transparent and dispassionate approach”.

DEAR Jasminda,

WE are organising a large birthday function and there are relatives that don't get along with each other. How do we ensure no one feels left out while still making it an enjoyable experience for everyone?

Harriet P.

Dear Harriet,

This fictional column is not legal advice.

Reflecting on election results

DEAR News Of The Area,

WHILE we may congratulate Pat [Conaghan] and his Nationals team on their election win, and thank the other candidates - especially Independent Caz Heise and her hard working team, for putting their hands up and at least giving us a choice - it might be worth reflecting on how our voting behaviour in Cowper compared to the rest of the nation.

While political commentary on the results varies, it’s pretty obvious that unlike the majority of voters in Cowper, the nation’s citizens overwhelmingly voted to ensure an increasingly dysfunctional looking Coalition government did not eventuate.

You could argue that many also voted to make sure the rise and power of the cross bench, particularly the Greens and Teals, was kept in check.

Alternatively, you could argue that

in our haste to achieve the former, we have inadvertently achieved the latter; something we may come to regret.

Cowper does not host ‘Big Mining’, ‘Big Ag’ or a significant manufacturing base, with our official description as a ‘retirement and tourism destination’.

Given that Port is world famous for its Koala Hospital and the Coffs LGA is the owner of the prestigious ‘Eco tourism’ moniker, you could be excused for thinking our voting preferences might at least acknowledge the years of tireless work done by the Greens, both Federally and locally, in highlighting environmental issues and helping to protect our rich biodiversity.

Yet in Cowper we ranked the Greens behind One Nation and Legalising Cannabis.

As history has shown, election results can be highly contradictory.

In that regard nothing has changed.

Regards, Dave WOOD, Boambee East.

Voting patterns in Cowper

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE Cowper results show some interesting voting patterns.

Across the board Caz Heise got a 3.5 percent increase in primary vote from 2022 while Pat Conaghan had a 0.8 percent decline in primaries.

Unfortunately for the independent the gain was mainly won from Labor and the Greens losses.

Some booths are clearly in the independent’s camp, like Bellingen with 80 percent, while some of the high crimerate, poorer areas such as Kempsey voted to keep what they know with the Nats rather than try the alternative.

What we can see is the voters that are the new lifestylers in beautiful locations are turning away from the Nats.

There are a mere 3,000 votes needed to change for a new style of representation.

My disappointment with the Caz campaign is not linking the policies that the Liberal/Nationals put forward and

then discarded even mid-campaign.

We heard nothing about nuclear power plants and dumping thousands of public service jobs.

The Nats meanwhile focused on where the independents’ funding was coming from rather than disclose their own mining and big business ties.

Caz Heise has said she will not run again and that is understandable, however the Voices for Cowper which nominated her is a far more robust and committed group who will again select and promote a candidate when the next election rolls around.

Regards, Peter LEWIS, Park Beach.

If your large family events traditionally look like an episode of Dr Phil, it can be challenging to navigate the day to ensure it's enjoyable for everyone.

The most important person on the day is not Aunt Phyllis, who, half-tanked, always brings up a misunderstanding from 2003, or Cousin Jarrad, who has done time for arson and wants to commandeer the fire pit.

No. The most important person is the birthday guest of honour and, frankly, everyone else needs to get over it and on with it.

To ensure the day goes well, preempt any issues by calling the warring factions and explaining that both parties will be there.

If they can't bring themselves to be civil, one will most likely opt out.

You can then catch up on another occasion. Problem solved.

If, however, they are all adamant that they will attend, explain that it's a special day, so they can either be civil, or at least keep their distance.

If you're inviting a lot of people, there will always be a peacekeeper (usually the person employed as a life coach and/or masseur).

Potential hostilities can often be sidestepped with diversionary tactics.

A casual announcement like, "Oh, wow, is that Aunt Julie's Mars Bar and Nut slice?" works well.

Food is a brilliant appeaser, particularly since it is quite hard to argue when there's a Macadamia nut lodged in one's esophagus.

Limiting the amount of alcohol and/ or having a strict finish time is also a good idea, as is having the event in a public location.

If it all starts to go pear-shaped, you can at least leave them to it.

If the function is at your place, you're stuck with whatever eventuates (including Cousin Jarrad's impromptu firestick demonstration and Aunt Phyllis's tabletop dance of the seven veils).

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

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 us now 02 4981 8882 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au

From the Mayor’s desk

By Mayor Nikki WILLIAMS City of Coffs Harbour.

NEXT week is National Volunteer Week and what a perfect opportunity to say thank you to the amazing people who give their

time and energy to others.

Whether you’re pulling weeds at a community garden, coaching the local footy team, helping out at events, or just quietly making life better behind the scenes, I thank you. Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Coffs Coast.

Without them, our community groups like the Lions, Red Cross, Rotary, surf clubs, and neighbourhood centres simply couldn’t do what they do.

So if you’ve ever thought about getting involved, now’s the time.

These groups are always looking for new faces, and even an hour here and there can make a real difference.

Tourism is another big part of who we are

and it plays a huge role in our local economy.

From Sawtell to Woopi and all the way to our stunning hinterland, the Coffs Coast is already a favourite for domestic travellers.

But we can’t afford to stand still – we need to keep evolving and improving what we offer.

That’s why I’m so pleased to welcome seven new members to the Destination Coffs Coast Committee: Harry Barry, Tiga Cross, Lydia Crossingham, Michael Lockman, Gill Robson, Kamla Ruthnam and Glenn Storrie.

They’ll be working alongside Council reps George Cecato and Cath Fowler, and representatives from our local business chambers, to help shape the future of tourism here.

They bring a great mix of experience and

Federal election remorse

DEAR News Of The Area,

NOW that the Federal Election is finally over (thank God) it seems a few are grieving the result, and as a consequence their current thinking, as well as their memories, lack clarity.

Mr Williamson in his letter of 9 May 2025 laments the fact that we have elected a lying Labor Prime Minister.

I share his sentiments about sincerity and integrity, traits which unfortunately are hard to find in any politician, however I remind Mr Williamson that these characteristics are not confined to Labor politicians.

Remember John Howard and the “Children overboard” disgrace in 2001?

This unconscionable lie was instrumental in winning him an election.

In 1998 Howard pledged the Liberal Party would “never ever” adopt a GST.

However in 2000 this commitment “was not a core promise” and a GST was introduced.

Tony Abbott’s assurance in 2013 that there will be no cuts to education, health, the ABC and SBS and no changes to pensions.

He lied. All got “the chop” in that year’s budget.

Scott Morrison in his 2019 campaign maintained that Labor would introduce an Electricity tax, a Housing tax, a Car Tax, a Retiree Tax, an Investment Tax and a Superannuation Tax.

As a result of such spurious lies, none of which were proposed by Labor, they lost that election.

“Misinformation” during the Voice campaign torpedoed that excellent initiative.

Now we hear how Mr Dutton was demonised during the election campaign by Labor.

How quickly some people forget the way Julia Gillard was treated in her entire term in office by the Coalition party.

Remember the pictures of Tony Abbott, Bronwyn Bishop and Sophie Mirabella

The Big Screen

By Lindsay HALL

A TWIST on an established horror franchise has been applied to Final Destination: Bloodlines

The original Final Destination was born from a fairly ingenious idea for the genre: a horror film in which Death itself was the “villain”, orchestrating Rube-Goldberg machinations of misfortune that result in suspenseful, grisly deaths.

In this latest instalment, college student Stefani learns that her grandmother “cheated death” many years ago, saving the lives of hundreds of people from a freak accident.

Death, ever-patient, has stalked and claimed not only those survivors, but their offspring.

Now Stefani must race against time to find a way to save her family.

Directors Zack Lipovsky and Adam Stein, along with writers Guy Busick, Lory Evans Taylor and producer Jon Watts, are part of

a hip modern wave of filmmakers who can appeal well to modern, young audiences.

The Surfer

Nicolas Cage lends his star power to a local indie thriller in The Surfer.

When the titular Surfer (Cage) returns to his hometown to settle and build a life for he and his son (Finn Little), he runs afoul of a local group of surfers led by Scally (Julian McMahon) who don’t abide “outsiders”.

From this point the Surfer is beset by opposition, frustrations and gaslighting that make him question his own sanity, until his final confrontation with Scally and his gang.

Director Lorcan Finnegan has a track record of deeply unsettling suspense films that take wild narrative turns at unexpected moments.

The results can be polarising for audiences, but they are always memorable.

Hurry Up Tomorrow

Election problem

DEAR News Of The Area,

MY wife and I went to a polling station on Saturday, and she told the election officer at the table her surname, which was Quick.

She knew there could be a problem when he started looking around the letter W.

Then despite explaining where the letter Q was in the alphabet he still

couldn't find it, so she moved to the next table where my son and I had already received our voting slips.

Maybe more testing on election officials might be required.

Regards, Trevor QUICK, Bonville.

standing in front of posters calling Gillard a witch, a liar and “Bob Brown’s bitch”?

The massive swing to Labor was partly due to the rejection of the Coalition’s nuclear power policy.

Mr Dingle obviously does not agree with the majority of Australians as he still strongly advocates (NOTA 09/05/2025) for the introduction of nuclear power.

Nuclear power is totally unfeasible and impractical in Australia and the Coalition’s projection of 2035 for the first reactor is overly optimistic.

According to expert opinion this will not occur before 2040, which is probably optimistic based on overseas experiences and our own experience on major projects (Snowy 2 was planned for completion in 2022 at $2B and now is expected to come into service in 2029 at $12B and this is technology that we have experience in.

In the meantime AEMO project that 95 percent of coal fired power stations will reach their life by 2035 and that they will all close by 1939.

This is a cinematic experiment of sorts - a film created as a companion piece to the latest album released by its star, R&B artist Abel Tesfaye, also known as The Weeknd.

Tesfaye plays a fictionalised version of himself, suffering from insomnia and on the verge of a mental breakdown, who is drawn into an existential voyage of selfdiscovery.

The film is described as a musical psychological thriller and also stars Barry Keoghan and Jenna Ortega.

The Salt Path

Writer and “long-distance walker” Raynor Winn has seen her 2018 memoir adapted into the film The Salt Path Named for the South West Coast Path in England that runs from Minehead to Poole, the biographical drama is the story of Winn’s (played by Gillian Anderson) experiences walking the 1010 km path with her husband Moth (played by Jason Isaacs).

Following Moth’s diagnoses of corticobasal degradation and a devastating financial crisis that left the couple homeless, they

passion and I know they’ll do a brilliant job.

We’ve also just released our draft Operational Plan for 2025–26. Basically, it’s Council’s to-do list for the year ahead and it’s now open for public feedback.

There’s almost $64 million in capital works planned, including upgrades to parks, water, roads, footpaths, community facilities and more.

A personal highlight for me is the $2.3 million we’ve budgeted for new playgrounds and sports facilities – something I know many families will welcome.

Head to the City’s website, take a look, and let us know what you think.

This is your city, your community - so please take the time to have your say.

The Coalition proposal avoided discussing the environmental impacts of this project in that the continuation of coal and increased gas generation would inject at least a billion tonnes of gas pollutants into the atmosphere. Nor was the disposal and HUGE cost of nuclear waste thoroughly addressed, not to mention the adverse impact on our water sources, as France discovered during their drought.

Little was discussed on the Regulatory organization needed to support a nuclear industry and the unique skills that we would need to develop to implement such an industry (if Mr Dutton was going to cut the public service there is a whole new Department that he would have to create which would offset his head count) and let us not forget the state government bans on nuclear power.

Therefore, we may have some that bemoan the election result but as John Howard once said “the people get it right”.

Regards, Pieter DE VISSER Korora.

walked the full length of the National Trail, experiencing surprising turns of rejection and generosity from the people they encountered along the way.

All of these releases, however, will likely be lost in the shadow of one of this years’ biggest films.

Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning.

The eighth entry into the mega-blockbuster series, this film boasts the distinction of being one of the most expensive films ever made.

It is a direct continuation of the story from Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, and reunites stars Tom Cruise, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Hayley Atwell, Angela Bassett and Henry Czerny as the IMF - a clandestine organisation saving the world from threats beyond imagination. Every entry has been an opportunity to witness Tom Cruise putting himself at genuine risk with a wild stunt, but the series has also come to set the highest standard for action that tells a compelling story.

A special celebration

DEAR News Of The Area,

CONGRATULATIONS to Ally and her

fantastic and dedicated team at the Chill ‘n’ Chat Cafe for serving a fabulous Mother’s Day lunch on Friday 9 May.

It was a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds.

Words can hardly describe how special this celebration was.

The impeccable service, the beautiful

decorations and subtle way of creating a festive environment is something many local restaurants can learn from.

This little gem, in beautiful surrounds in the Centre of Coffs Harbour, should get all the support and accolades of praise it deserves.

Regards, Margeretha BONNET, Coffs Harbour.

A grand old lady

8 Elizabeth Street, Sawtell Auction on-site: Saturday 31 May at 1pm.

Beds 3, Bath 1, Car 3

Land size: 954.8sqm

THIS grand old Sawtell home is being offered to market for the first time after being tightly held for nearly 80 years.

Built by the Brissett family who were some of the early entrepreneurs of Sawtell, the home is a piece of Sawtell history but presents so much more, being located on 954sqm of Medium Density Zoned land with road and rear lane access.

The home itself exudes a craftsmanship of yesteryear.

Constructed of double brick throughout the home is as solid now as it was nearly 80 years ago.

The bedrooms, of which there are three, are indeed the size of living areas in today's floorplans.

The kitchen was replaced about 25 years ago and is the most modern

part of the home.

It has a double sink, Westinghouse oven and range hood and plenty of cupboard space.

There is even an informal dining room attached to the kitchen.

The bathroom is in original condition and features a walk-in shower, bathtub and vanity, as well as a length of the room cupboard and bench.

The formal dining room is a room fit for the most elegant of dinner parties, with a fireplace in place, constructed of stone imported from Italy in the late 1940s.

The formal lounge room however is the centrepiece of the home and indeed has that ballroom feel.

One cannot help but focus on the large stone mantelpiece, which is at the rear of the dining room's fireplace, which is a striking feature of the room.

The property also has a fully enclosed veranda running along two sides

of the home with plenty of windows allowing lots of natural light.

It also greatly increases the size of an already generously proportioned home.

The laundry, once again in original condition is amongst the largest laundries we have ever seen and includes an internal toilet, whilst there is an additional toilet off the rear of the home.

Outside there is a double carport as well as an original garage.

The large lot means there is still a huge backyard even with such a generously proportioned home.

The rear fence of the home has direct access to a lane separating it from the main street of Sawtell and the rear of the cinema.

Your chance to renovate and live in a piece of history, and/or develop in the future.

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

This Sawtell cottage is walking distance to Sawtell Beach, Sawtell School and Sawtell Main Street. Orientated to the north to catch the winter sun and summer breezes. This rare three bedroom home has lots of character with picture frame rails, art deco inspired archway, semi-separate dining room, lounge with new split system air conditioner, original kitchen, shower room, under house BBQ area, large under house storage area, workshop and a single garage with power door. There is side vehicle access for a caravan or boat and there is a detach double garage in back yard. Other features are: water tank and solar hot water service

This private rear villa/unit is just a walk across the street to the Beach Reserve. It is a compact two bedroom home with air conditioner, open plan living, french doors from the bedrooms to the rear covered awning and yard. There is a carport, garden shed, vegie patch, avocado & mango tree. Situated on the northern corner of the complex for those sunning days. An affordable option for the Sawtell lifestyle. Currently tenant at $400.0 P/W.

Celebrating the reclaimed wetlands of Yurruun.ga

By Andrea FERRARI

AN exhibition of artworks celebrating the reclaimed wetland at Yuurrun.ga (Urunga) is showing at Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) between 17 May and 22 June.

Created by John Bennett and John Laidley, it is described as a story of hope and beauty that captures the reclamation of the endangered wetlands after years of industrial pollution

John Bennett, a multiaward-winning poet and photographer and John Laidler, a musician and sound engineer who also works as a citizen scientist on the site, are shining the light on the precarious nature of wetlands today.

“Wetlands are vital habitats, but vanishing faster

than rainforests,” Mr Laidler said.

“The area housed a mineral processing plant and that left the site deadpoisoned with arsenic, lead, mercury and cyanide.”

The exhibition features 60 videos probing the wetland from a range of perspectives from natural aesthetics to fine art.

“The videos are ‘photographs’ that extend for 60 seconds, they are not edits excised from longer takes.

“In times of environmental chaos what can artists do?” Mr Laidler posed.

“I undertake regular bird surveys for an ecological restoration journey.

“Citizen science projects are becoming increasingly important for people and science.”

John Bennett has worked for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service then undertook a PhD exploring poetics.

Since moving to regional NSW, he has become heavily involved in the cultural life of the Mid North Coast.

He reads poems live on ABC Regional radio once a week.

He was Artistic Director of the Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival for five years and taught ecopoetry at Camp Creative, Bellingen.

He has worked with Aboriginal storytellers for the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance.

The two Johns have worked together for over 15 years on a wide variety of projects including music documentaries, conceptual works and poetry journals.

Pests, weeds to cost $30 billion a year without action

By Farid FARID, AAP

MORE than 350 invasive plant and animal species are causing about $2 billion worth of damage every year in one of Australia's most populated states.

But that annual figure could balloon to a whopping $30 billion by 2030 without investment in a long-term biosecurity management system, a government body has warned.

A report released last Thursday found urban expansion, climate change and natural disasters are all driving the spread of invasive species.

Invasive species are the highest impact contributors of extinctions, directly endangering 70 per cent

of threatened wildlife and ecosystems in NSW.

Almost 1000 animal and plant species across the state are at risk of extinction from fire ant infestations, larger herbivores such as feral goats and horses, or free-roaming cats capable of killing 35 native animals a night.

"The failure to effectively manage new incursions could result in an estimated worstcase annual total cost of $29.7 billion by 2030," the 154page report by independent government advisory body, the Natural Resources Commission, warns.

"This worst-case estimate includes market and nonmarket impacts across all sectors, including agriculture, environment, health, social amenity and infrastructure."

But the amount of financial resources spent on managing the rampant problem paled in comparison, with $200 million spent in 2022/23.

The commission's review found that much more focus is needed on protecting the environment, not just agriculture.

The commission specifically recommended tightening management laws to deal with the "significant biosecurity risk" of approximately half a million semi-owned, unowned or feral cats across the state.

It also cautioned that without a systematic approach, politics was often at play rather than legitimate environmental concerns.

"Driven by a lack of a statewide risk-based approach

q Almost 1000 native animals and plants are at risk of extinction due to invasive species.

Photo: Stuart Walmsley/AAP PHOTOS.

or resourcing strategy, funding is often instead allocated based on existing program maintenance, public visibility of invasive species or pressure from interest groups," the review found.

The Invasive Species Council said the "era of failure" should end and a comprehensive strategy was needed to inform government's approach.

"For too long, invasive

species management has been characterised by shortterm funding cycles, lack of coordination and a lack of strategy," chief executive Jack Gough said.

Birdlife on Yurruun.ga’s wetlands.

q Musician and citizen scientist John Laidler.

q Poet and photographer John Bennett.

Plibersek punted as PM stamps authority on ministry

By Dominic GIANNINI, AAP

ANTHONY Albanese has dumped Tanya Plibersek from her environment portfolio as part of a shake-up of his ministry.

The prime minister played down internal divisions following Labor's landslide election victory as he promoted close ally Tim Ayres to cabinet and elevated Anne Aly from the outer ministry.

Ms Plibersek, who has

a frosty relationship with Mr Albanese despite being one of Labor's most senior women, has been shifted to social services.

The writing had been on the wall after Mr Albanese went over the top of Ms Plibersek to dump environmental laws after lobbying from West Australian stakeholders.

Michelle Rowland becomes the attorneygeneral after Mark Dreyfus was knifed by his right faction in a power play by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.

Murray Watt takes over as environment minister, with Amanda Rishworth assuming the employment and workplace relations portfolio.

"Murray is an outstanding performer as a minister. I regard the environment as a really central portfolio," Mr Albanese said.

He retained his frontline team of Defence Minister Mr Marles, Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Trade Minister Don Farrell.

Other ministers keeping their portfolios include Malarndirri McCarthy (Indigenous Australians), Tony Burke (home affairs), Mark Butler (health), Chris Bowen (energy), Jason Clare (education) and Clare O'Neil (housing).

Madeleine King kept resources, Catherine King

COFFS COAST News Of The Area

infrastructure, Pat Conroy defence industry and Pacific affairs and Julie Collins agriculture.

Anika Wells takes on the communications portfolio alongside sport, meaning she will take carriage of the contentious gambling advertising restriction policy Labor shelved before the election.

Dr Aly's promotion reflects a greater focus on WA after the state helped deliver Labor government for the second consecutive federal election.

She is the sole Muslim MP in the senior leadership team after Ed Husic also fell victim to internal warfare,

Sweeney hat-trick powers storm to 7-1 blitz

By David WIGLEY

TOM Sweeney bagged a hattrick as Northern Storm sent a fierce warning to their title rivals with a 7-1 demolition of Bellingen Bats in the HIT105.5 Men’s Premier League on Saturday.

The reigning champions took control early at the Coffs Coast Synthetic Fields, storming to a 3-0 lead by half-time through a Sweeney double and a sharp finish from Campbell Brear.

Bellingen showed some resistance after the break, with Aidan Danzey slicing through the Storm defence to

reduce the deficit to 3-1 with a tidy low finish.

But any thoughts of a comeback were quickly crushed.

Sweeney sealed his hattrick minutes later, tapping in after slick lead-up play from Muan Nen Sian down the left wing.

From there, it was oneway traffic.

Brear fired home his second before Nen Sian capped a dazzling solo run with a classy finish from a tight angle.

Jyden Pike added the final blow in the 86th minute to round out the commanding

victory.

The result cements Storm’s position in second spot on the ladder, five points behind Coffs City United with a game in hand.

Coffs United kept their title push alive with a 4-1 win over Westlawn Tigers at Barnier Park.

Storm now face a crucial clash against third-placed Yamba Breakers in Yamba on Saturday, 17 May at 5.30pm.

Coffs United Lions will host 2024 premiers Woolgoolga Wolves at Forsyth Park on the same evening, with kick-off at 5pm.

branding Mr Marles a "factional assassin" on the way out.

Senator Ayres took Mr Husic's science and industry portfolios, while Jess Walsh (early childhood education), Daniel Mulino (assistant treasurer) and Sam Rae (aged care and seniors) also entered the 30-person ministry.

The ministry was set to be sworn in at Government House on Tuesday.

The refreshed leadership team will sink its teeth into Labor's secondterm policy agenda with parliament set to resume in July.

Legislation cutting

student debt by 20 percent shapes as the first cab off the rank.

Mr Husic's demotion has been criticised by Muslim community groups and Labor luminary and former prime minister Paul Keating.

Mr Albanese defended not intervening, saying Labor's caucus processes were not new.

Ministry appointments are based on faction and state proportions.

"That is the system that is there," Mr Albanese said.

"It's one that Ed and others have supported for a long period of time."

LOCALSPORT

q A Tom Sweeney (right) hat-trick inspired Northern Storm to 7-1 victory. Photo: D Wigley.

q The prime minister has played down internal divisions as he unveiled his new-look ministry. Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS.

q Tanya Plibersek during the Federal election campaign. Photo: AAP Image/ Lukas Coch.

Coffs Coast surfer wins prestigious junior title

By Aiden BURGESS

BENJI Lowen has taken out a prestigious junior title after beating some of the country's top junior surfers.

The Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club member won the Under 18 Boys title at the Youth Surfing National Battle at Caves Beach in Lake Macquarie.

The premier surfing competition features some of the best up-and-coming surfers in the country.

Lowen beat out 47 other surfers to win the four-day event, scoring 13.67 to win the final by 0.87 against Taj Air.

He won a very tight semi-final by 0.13 after scoring 10.57, and had a score of 11.83 to finish second in his quarter finals.

The Coffs Coast surfer

won both his first and second round heats to qualify for the quarter finals.

Lowen is currently in a rich vein of form having also won the NSW Junior Regional Series-North Coast event at Sawtell in March.

Fellow Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club member Jarrah Jay White also had a successful event at Caves Beach, making the semifinals of the Under 14 Boys competition.

The Youth Surfing National Battle features Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s and Under 18s divisions, and is a 6500 star-rated event on the surfing calendar.

q Benji Lowen celebrates his victory.

Triathletes rally amid course changes

By Andrea FERRARI

A GROUP of nine Coffs Harbour athletes competed in the UKG Ironman and half Ironman events in Port Macquarie on Sunday 5 May.

Disappointment barely describes the emotion the 2000-plus registered athletes felt when the organisers cancelled the swim portion of the events at 4am on the morning of the races due to poor water quality after continued rain.

The racers rallied however with 860 finishers in the full distance and 1191 finishers in the half distance event.

Coffs Harbour competitors Dean Caton, Megan Bailey, Adrian Hawke, Brad Henry, Nick Newling, Joe Quiring and Richard Bolt completed the full distance event, alongside Jenni Williams and Caron Mackie in the half distance.

“There were thousands of supporters from all over the country and in fact the world attending the event,” Dean Caton told News Of The Area.

“This is what keeps bringing me back - the unbelievable support on course from random strangers, fellow competitors, non-participating club members and family and

friends.

“It is the reward for all those lonely training hours.”

It was a difficult day from a mental perspective, Dean said.

“The news at 4am that the swim was cancelled was a challenge.

“Lots of messages and phone calls ensued and had us all questioning our participation.

“We had all invested a lot of time and money, and for that to go to waste it would have been a shame.”

Having completed three Ironman races in the past, Dean found himself questioning the need to push hard and participate, given his time could not be compared to previous races.

In the end he pushed through, experiencing the thrill and theatre of the finish line once more.

“If I could bottle the feeling you get in the last few kilometres of the run and then the trip down the red carpet on the finishing chute I would,” he said.

“I don't think I haven't been emotional about that yet. It makes me emotional just thinking about it now.”

For Brad Henry, Port Ironman was a physical and mental test, and the culmination of six months of early morning and late night training.

“When I could fit it in around working away and training whilst still trying to be there for my family,” he said.

“Ironman is as much a part of a journey for

Rugby returns after washouts

By Aiden BURGESS

AFTER having two weeks off due to washouts, the majority of the competition’s players returned to action for Round 5 of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.

Port Macquarie Pirates became the first team to beat the Coffs Harbour Snappers this season, winning 24-15 at home against the ladder leaders.

SCU Marlins went down 17-10 to the Hastings Valley Vikings at Coffs Rugby Park, which was the Marlins’ first game in a month after the Easter break and two washouts.

Kempsey Cannonballs recorded their first win of the season, edging out the Grafton Redmen 15-12 in Grafton.

q Coffs Triathlon

Port Macquarie Pirates reserves edged out the Coffs Harbour Snappers 18-15, and the Hastings Valley Vikings reserves had a 29-7 win against the SCU Marlins. Coffs Harbour Snappers women smashed the Port Macquarie Pirates 47-0. Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division teams have this weekend off, before resuming with Round 6 games on Saturday, 24 May. First grade ladder. 1.Coffs Harbour Snappers. 15 points. 3 wins. 1 loss. 45 (for and against). 2.Port Macquarie Pirates. 11 points. 2 wins. 1 loss. 59. 3.Hastings Valley Vikings. 9 points. 2 wins. 1 loss. 32. 4.Grafton Redmen. 6 points. 1 win. 3 losses. -23. 5.SCU Marlins. 6 points. 1 win. 2 losses. -27. 6.Kempsey Cannonballs. 5 points. 1 win. 2 losses. -86.

your loved ones as it is for yourself.”

Happy with his efforts on the modified course, Brad said he has “unfinished Ironman business” in Port Macquarie.

Nick Newling’s journey to Ironman participation began several years ago.

“The road to Ironman started about three years ago when I dusted off the closest semblance of a jogger that I owned, laced up and went

out for a 5km run,” he said.

“800m in, gasping for air, clinging for life… I fell in love with running.

“Then came the bike, then the wetsuit, then the 15 pairs of $250-plus shoes.”

Having “nearly become an Ironman” in Port Macquarie, Nick’s journey continues.

“All but the swim,” he said.

“To be continued.”

Another finisher, Richard Bolt said curiosity and a “healthy dose of peer

pressure” encouraged him to sign up.

“The training was challenging but when it came to race day it all felt worth it,” he said.

“It was a day of celebration for all that hard work.

“I loved seeing my friends and family out on the course cheering me on.

“Crossing the finish line was an amazing feeling.

“I’ll be back for sure.”

Club member Brad Henry competes in the Port Macquarie Ironman.

q Coffs Triathlon Club member Dean Caton at Port Macquarie Ironman.

Nambucca Roosters go top of the ladder

By Aiden BURGESS

NAMBUCCA Roosters have gone to the top of the ladder with a 22-14 win at home against the Sawtell Panthers, during Round 3 of the Group 2 Rugby League season.

The defending premiers won their second straight match to start the season, winning their top of the ladder clash at Coronation Park.

Woolgoolga Seahorses moved into second spot on the ladder with a 22-10 win at home against the

Macksville Sea Eagles, their second straight win to start the season.

South Grafton Rebels began their season on a winning note, beating the Grafton Ghosts 24-18 in their local derby at South Grafton, which was the Rebels first hit out of the season after a washout and a bye.

Reserves

Woolgoolga Seahorses went to the top of the ladder with a 30-14 win against the Macksville Sea Eagles.

Sawtell Panthers had a 20-16 win against the

Nambucca Roosters, and the Grafton Ghosts won their second match in a row beating the South Grafton Rebels 30-18.

Women’s

Woolgoolga Seahorses went to the top of the ladder with a 38-4 win against the Macksville Sea Eagles.

Sawtell Panthers won their second match in a row beating the Nambucca Roosters 22-16.

South Grafton Rebels edged out the Grafton Ghosts 12-10 in their local derby.

Under 18s Grafton Ghosts continued their undefeated start to the season, winning their third straight game by beating the South Grafton Rebels 42-4.

Macksville Sea Eagles also continued their undefeated start to the season, beating the Woolgoolga Seahorses 26-16.

Nambucca Roosters were also winners in Round 3 accounting for the Sawtell Panthers 28-8.

The Group 2 Rugby League season continues this weekend with Round 4

Duellists Fencing Club wins NSW award

By Aiden BURGESS

FOR the second year in a row, Duellists Fencing Club has received the award for Best Regional Club of the year from the New South Wales Fencing Association.

Based in Coffs Harbour, the local club was bestowed the honor for their significant contributions in developing the region's fencing community.

Led by former Australian Olympic athlete and coach Scott Arnold, the club is committed to initiatives

Bombers reign in the rain

By David WIGLEY

IN a repeat of last year’s Under 15s grand finals, the Boambee Bombers turned the tables on the Coffs United Lions romping to a 4-0 victory last weekend at the Coffs Coast Synthetics.

Bailey Barden opened the scoring after just four minutes with a thunderous free kick into the top corner.

Koby Banks, Luis Osterloh and Sam Grobovsky added to the scoreline as the Bombers marched to their third straight victory this season.

With persistent rain wreaking havoc on earlier rounds, both teams were simply relieved to be back on the pitch.

“It was fantastic to see the kids out playing again, especially after all the wet

weather we've had,” said Boambee coach Aaron Banks.

“As a coach, club president, and father, it was incredibly rewarding to watch Boambee's strong start to the season continue.

“Facing last year's benchmark team provided extra motivation, and the players rose to the challenge with some outstanding passing combinations and smooth transitions from defense to attack.

“With the return of several players from the PYL system, we're focused on building consistency and supporting these young athletes as they make the transition into senior football.

“It's an exciting time for the club, and we're proud of the direction we're heading.”

matches.

Sawtell Panthers will look to bounce back from their first loss of the season, when they play host to the South Grafton Rebels at Rex Hardaker Oval.

Coffs Harbour Comets and the Grafton Ghosts will both go for their first win of the season when they clash in Grafton.

Round 4 also sees the Macksville Sea Eagles hosting the Nambucca Roosters in their local derby.

And the Woolgoolga Seahorses have the bye.

First grade ladder. 1.Nambucca Roosters. 6 points. 2 wins. 0 losses. 1 bye. 22 (points differential). 2.Woolgoolga Seahorses. 5 points. 2 wins. 0 losses. 0 byes. 22 p.d. 3.South Grafton Rebels. 5 points. 1 win. 0 losses. 1 bye. 6 p.d. 4.Sawtell Panthers. 4 points. 2 wins. 1 loss. 0 byes. 28 p.d. 5.Coffs Harbour Comets. 2 points. 0 wins. 2 losses. 1 bye. -16 p.d. 6.Macksville Sea Eagles. 2 points. 1 win. 2 losses. 0 byes. -38 p.d. 7.Grafton Ghosts. 0 points. 0 wins. 3 losses. 0 byes. -24 p.d.

that build the sport, provide inclusivity and child safe environments.

Most notably, Scott was Chloe Esposito's fencing coach in her gold medal success in the modern pentathlon event at the Rio Olympics in 2016, along with coaching many other athletes in their national and international campaigns.

The club's programs include Mini Musketeers (primary age), beginner courses, general club training, and training camps open to fencers from all over Australia to attend.

Assistant coach Julie Pearce said that the award is no doubt due to the club's commitment to developing fencing through skilled

coaching, accessible programs, and community building.

"It's not a mainstream sport, but it's a really great sport because it's for everyone, whether you're sporty or academic, young or old, it has the capacity to be a new sport for everyone to try."

q Boambee Bombers defeated the Coffs United Lions 4-0.

q Duellists Fencing Club members.

q Duellists Fencing Club coach Scott Arnold.

Breakers win grand final rematch against Magpies

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour Breakers have won a grand final rematch against the Port Macquarie Magpies, during Round 4 of the AFL North Coast season.

The Breakers beat the defending premiers 6.5 (41) to 4.3 (27) in Port Macquarie, their second win in a row.

Macleay Valley Eagles made a triumphant return

to the seniors competition, prevailing 13.12 (90) to 13.6 (84) against the Grafton Tigers in Grafton.

The victory came in the club’s first seniors game since 2015, after they returned to the competition this season and their first two scheduled games were washed out.

Reserves

Northern Beaches Blues won their second straight

game to start the season, having a 6.12 (48) to 3.5 (23) win against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.

Port Macquarie Magpies had an 8.12 (60) to 1.4 (10) win against the Coffs Harbour Breakers.

Women’s

Northern Beaches Blues won their second straight game to start the season, edging out the Sawtell/

Toormina Saints 1.3 (9) to 1.1 (7) in Woolgoolga.

Coffs Harbour Breakers had their first win of the season with a 5.7 (37) to 2.1 (13) victory against the Port Macquarie Magpies.

Under 18s

Port Macquarie Magpies maintained their unbeaten start to the season, defeating the Coffs Harbour Breakers 11.10 (76) to 1.1 (7).

Northern Beaches Blues had a 6.5 (41) to 3.9 (27) win against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints.

The AFL North Coast season continues this weekend with Round 5 matches in Coffs Harbour, Grafton, and South Kempsey.

The Macleay Valley Eagles seniors play their first home game in 10 years, when they welcome the Sawtell/Toormina Saints to South Kempsey.

The Grafton Tigers host the Port Macquarie Magpies, while the Coffs Harbour Breakers have the bye.

Coffs Harbour Breakers and Northern Beaches Blues

Coffs to host inaugural State Classic

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour is set to host an historic event that will combine five state surfing titles for the first time.

Taking place from Tuesday, 27 May, to Sunday, 1 June, the VW State Classic is set to bring together five Surfing NSW State Titles: Junior, Masters Shortboard, Longboard, SUP, and High School.

The six-day event will feature over 700 of the state’s best surfers, aged 10 to 80plus, to be held across three breaks on the Coffs CoastDiggers Beach, Macauley’s Beach, and Park Beach.

Aanuka Beach House will act as event headquarters, with the VW State Classic providing a crucial platform for NSW’s best surfers, and offering a pathway to the Australian National Titles.

Surfing NSW CEO Lucas

Lifeguards update skills in the off-season

PROFESSIONAL and volunteer lifeguards from the Mid North Coast are undertaking maintenance and upgrading of qualifications in the off-season.

At South West Rocks, a class of 16 professional lifeguards have undertaken a new and compulsory two day Beach Operations and Management (BOM) course under the guidance of the Australian Lifeguard Service’s James Turnham (Mid NSW Lifeguard Coordinator and Port Macquarie Supervisor), Jake Russo (BellingenNambucca Lifeguard Supervisor), and Richard Clarke (Kempsey Lifeguard Supervisor).

The two days were led by Port Macquarie lifeguard James Turnham, who was rewarded for his outstanding contribution to the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) with the 2018 DHL Lifeguard of the Year at the Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence.

“Being a lifeguard isn’t

just about donning a red uniform and sitting by the water’s edge,” James said.

“Having a lifeguard accreditation is a journey filled with excitement, and difficulties, and opens doors for personal and professional growth.

“There is also physical fitness, development of leadership skills, and the opportunity to have diverse workplace settings including overseas work.”

The BOM course is designed to empower those who will be leading a surf rescue team or patrol to respond to a range of incidents including search and rescue operations.

This ensures that graduates are able to control a Level 1 incident with only initial responders and their local resources, without requiring the deployment of additional resources from other areas or agencies.

In the context of coastal safety, ‘volunteer lifesavers’

Townsend said the VW State Classic signals a new direction for the organisation and the sport in NSW.

“The VW State Classic is a first for Surfing NSW, bringing shortboard, longboard and SUP together in one flagship event,” he said.

“It’s a celebration of grassroots competition and the legacy of being a NSW State Champion.

“Beyond the lineup, it unites competitors and the local community at Aanuka Beach House to honour the region’s rich surf culture and coastal spirit.

“We’re stoked to have Sawtell, Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour Boardriders Clubs involved, and we’re grateful to the local surf community for generously sharing their waves with our State competitors."

The VW State Classic

reserves, women’s, and Under 18s sides play off at Fitzroy Oval. The Nambucca Valley Lions and Sawtell/Toormina Saints reserves play off in South Kempsey. Seniors ladder. 1.Coffs Harbour Breakers. 8 points. 2 wins. 1 loss. 1 bye. 211.96%. 2.Port Macquarie Magpies. 4 points. 1 win. 1 loss. 257.69%. 3.Sawtell/ Toormina Saints. 4 points. 1 win. 0 losses. 2 byes. 148.48%. 4.Macleay Valley Eagles. 4 points. 1 win. 0 losses. 2 byes. 107.14%. 5.Grafton Tigers. 0 points. 0 wins. 3 losses. 1 bye. 35.58%.

2025 will drive visitation to the Coffs Harbour region, supporting local businesses and increasing the region's profile on a national level.

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams welcomed the announcement, saying it reinforces Coffs Harbour’s status as a premier tourism and sporting destination.

"We’re proud to host the VW State Classic 2025 right here on the Coffs Coast, our coastline has a rich surfing history, and this event is a fantastic way to celebrate it – bringing together surfers, supporters and visitors to experience the best of our waves, community – and everything our region has to offer,” she said.

The evolution of the State Titles has been made possible through the support of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, who have extended their partnership with Surfing NSW into its eighth year.

q Beach Operations Management course candidates and educators at Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks, having completed a simulated search and rescue.

refers to members of Surf Life Saving clubs, who patrol beaches on weekends and public holidays during the ‘surf season’ which, in general, runs from the end of

September to the end of April each year.

‘Professional lifeguards’ are paid employees who are accredited mostly through training with ALS, which is the

commercial arm of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), and the complementary water safety organisation, the Royal Life Saving Society. These lifeguards find employment at

a variety of venues, including public and private swimming pools, beaches, water parks, and rivers, some of which are open year-round.

q The VW State Classic is set to be held later this month.

Sawtell Bowls Results

By Geoff HAMPSON

MONDAY Twilight Bowls 5/5/25

Cancelled Due to Wet Weather

TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls

6/5/25

M McDonald, L North Draw J Wheeler, N Harvey

H Muir, D Ide, S Mason DEF L Savage, A Bailey, N Feltrin

WEDNESDAY Men’s Social

Park Beach Men’s Bowling Club

By Todd BROWN

MIXED Triples Tuesday 6 May 2025

D Francis, P Elliot, P Rambow d Moose, J Robinson, G Brewis 18 - 17

Clyde, R Lane, G Stanford d B Kelly, J Clarke, S Jones 19 - 14

CEX Woolgoolga Lawn Bowls

By Suzanne BRACHER

TUESDAY 29/4/2025 (AM) Rink 10: E Nielsen, J Burgess (D) H Wood, D Porta. Rink 11: M Campos, J Merchant, N Haines (D) M

Coffs Harbour Rifle Club

By Geoffrey HART

MAY 07 - Howard St Rimfire Range. The 30m Field Class match was conducted with 37 participants. Master Grade: Jake Buckley 98.8, Ben R 95.8, Daniel Finlay 91.6, A Grade: Johan Greyling 91.4, Jeffrey

Bonville Creek Kayak Club

By Kenneth BUCKLEY

SHORT Race on Pine Creek 5/4/2025

MNC Cross Country

By Peter BERRINGTON

11 MAY 2025 at Woolgoolga Whale Trail

RESULTS: 2km (Male)Angus Morgan 6:34, 1; Archer Jordan 7:07, 2; Sam Ewart 7:12, 3; Edison Happ 7:24, 4; Austin Hundle 7:24, 5; Kyle Bates 7:45, 6; Max Herbert 7:49, 7; Jackson Hood 8:13, 8; Astin Nuttall 8:29, 9; Lachlan Herbert 8:30, 10; Ben Ewart 8:31, 11; Lucas Perez 8:34, 12; Hudson Nightingale 9:02, 13; Finn Windmill 9:32, 14; Thomas Feain 9:36, 15; Jonathan Ewart 10:04, 16; Drew Herbert 10:07, 17; Matt Herbert 10:08, 18; Matthew McAleer 10:09, 19; Oscar Hanthorn 10:12, 20; Hunter

Park Beach Women’s Bowls Club

By Anne ORR

SOCIAL bowls Wednesday 7.5.25. E Kidd, J Clarke, B Johns def S Betts, J Kennedy, C Garrett 21-12; J Rodwell, D Doyle def L McLean, D Futcher 13-10; M England, J Bishop, R Crestani def K Elliott,

Bowls 7/5/25

G Peel, T Mitchell DEF L Zecchinati, I Muller

R Williams, B Fitzpatrick, B Clugston DEF G Campbell, B Newling, M Sharpe

T Lavelle, A Baker, B Blight DEF W Vaughn, D Anderson, A Berry

J Chapman, G Hampson, A Robertson DEF K Raymond, M Cutts, G Walsh

M Hastings, P Swain, M Aujard DEF P Nikitin, W Kellam, M

M Finn, M Miller, L Morris d J Alford, B Curnow, R Alford 18 - 15

S Clouten, D Catling, C Weatherall d CH McLeod, A Dorrington, D Hull 23 - 17

G Williams, R Beaumont, G Hinsley d M Ross, L McLeod, K Morrison 27 - 10

W Moore, H Major, R Oakley d P Lilly, Rosco, B Johns 23 - 13

S Kindred, C Jones, V Valentine d S Ward, Nicho, Macca

Costelloe, D Foster, H Dunbar. Tuesday 29/4/2025(PM Pairs) J Gibbins, Fred C (D) S Oliver, R Shaw.

Rink 3: H Pallister, G Pallister (D) P Diamond, J Taylor. Rink 4: S Bailey, C Davis (D) J Hurrell, R Bennell. Rink 5: T McKenzie, P Buck (D) R Ryan, G Cunningham. Rink 6: R Gurber, A Wroe (D) A Plain, N Wood. Rink 7: C

Pfeiffer 90.3, Phillip Payne 85.3, B

Grade: David Frampton 86.4, Sam Matten 83.2, Col Green 83.1, Hayley R 82.3, Mark Pelmore 81.2, Leo Lawlor 81.1, Gary McKinnon 77.3, Jonathon Mackay 75.0, Andrew Graham-Higgs 66.1, Kieron Hayden 63.0, C Grade: Andrew G 83.2, Carl P 82.3, Member-926 81.3, Danny W 75.4, Kevin Mackay 72.2, Austin

Bronte/Phil Jenkin 32:25, Bob Wallis +0:55, Tom Gibbins +1:29, Peter Hutchinson +1:31, Ken Buckley +1:41[faux], Dan/Mitch Jenkin +1:43, Rob Fahey 1:52, Arth/ Karen Reilly +2:06, Peter McDonald +2:18, Ben Hutchinson +2:27, Roy Doutreband +2:30, Peter Grant

Lynch 10:15, 21; Illay Shermeister 10:17, 22; Bar Shermeister 10:18, 23; Sahar Shermeister 10:27, 24; Russell Crane 10:30, 25; Harvey Griffin 10:42, 26; Oliver Darlington 11:15, 27; Matt Evans 11:51, 28; Iggi Nuttall 12:15, 29; Cooper Mears 13:36, 30; Arlo Aronsten 13:47, 31; Pablo Smith 13:48, 32; Naveh Shermeister 15:35, 33; Oaklei Nuttall 16:35, 34; Ben Smith 17:32, 35; Luedi Smith 17:33, 36.

RESULTS: 2km (Female)Poppy Barclay 7:01, 1; Bayley Johnson 7:26, 2; Lacey Van Hoeck 7:35, 3; Harper Nightingale 7:42, 4; Summer Bates 7:43, 5; Willow Nuttall 7:50, 6; Zara Johnson 7:59, 7; Amber Hundle 8:06, 8; Lilly Darlington 8:22, 9; Sarah Morgan 8:39, 10; Anika Bates

C Treharne, L Mitchell 15-13; F Gaunt, P Garner, J Pearce-Kennedy def S Meyers, B Bodel, L Loadsman 31-8; P Poulton, Y Hinsley, B Fane def C Venturi, M Watts, L North 24-19. E Kidd, C England def P Poulton, M England 15-14; D Doyle, C Sheridan def K Elliott, P Elliott 19-10; C McVicar, N McVicar def M Cutts, T Aarts 22-11; S Bailey, D Walsh def C Williamson,

SPORT RESULTS

Gibbons

G Hitchen, R McLellan, S Wilkinson DEF R Rolinson, J Urge, J Richardson

R Stock, B Martin, P Collins DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh

C Christian, D Wheeler, E Nicolaou DEF P Roach, D Bond, W Meadows

I Maderic, M Jenkins, R Petterson DEF D Isaacs, R Cridge, G Denniss

S Sillar, G Fisher, N Sillar DEF R

N McVicar, B Worboys, I Trengrove d K Elliot, A Stone, C Hansen 19 - 11

Smithers, S Shaw, J Rice

B Tarrant, H Slater, A Sorbello DEF P Paunovic, K Sharman, N Wong

FRIDAY Mixed Social Bowls 9/5/25

J Flynn, G Flynn, D Hyde DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, A Day K Lowry, G Hitchen, W Bujeya DEF T Wright, L Fisher, W Meadows

K Sharman, C Christian, A Berry DEF S Silva, H Slater, P Nikiten

T Brooks, G Dennis, R Cridge

DEF H Muir, G Hampson, D Ryan

G Peel, R Williams, B Fitzpatrick

DEF G Fisher, P Covington, N Sillar

J Brown, J Smithers, R Morris

DEF T Lavell, A Baker, D Holland

W Kellam, M Gibbons, A Jones

DEF J Chapman, P Day, P Roach

T Karam, J Urge, M Sillard

DEF W Vaughn, D Anderson, A Robertson

P Paunovic, N Wong DEF B Hamilton, K Taylor

C Weatherall, D Valentine, T Erskine d J Willmott, R Morris, S Morris 17 – 13

Triples Thursday 8 May 2025

N Dean, R Host, J Bishop d P North, L Goodacre, R Lane 27 - 9

D Hull, A Dorrington, P Rambow d B Walmsley, K Morrison, H Harper 16 - 15

J Eding, H Katala, G Colman d P Goodsell, K Crooks, L Morris 29 - 13

Nightingale, J Prosser, C Hobert (D) J Simmons, W Prosser, K Costelloe.

Wednesday 30/4/23025 (Wanderers) J Martin, C Williams, P Diamond (D) Punkin, J Whalen, J Hampstead. Rink 3: P Hatton, M Mulligan, K Stirling (D) J Simpson, N Willis, k Costelloe. Rink 4: J Simmons, B Pendred, M Lambert (D) Bear,

Atkinson 71.2, Claude Besse 71.1, Phil Hartmann 70.2, Michael Walker 66.0, Member-854 60.1, Matthew Mawby 57.2, Sineidin Mackay 55.0, Daniel Rees 51.0, Jennen NgiauKeng 46.1, Tyler K 45.2, Wendi H 41.0, Danielle M 21.0, Visitors: Kieran Mcevoy 77.2, Tony Deane 62.1, Tahli Deane 49.1, Craig McMalory 25.0, Open Sights: Daniel

+2:31, Brian Leiper +3:14, Mike Mackney +3:38, Mark Aujard + 3:40, Emma Hutchinson, SP. Short Race on Boville 11/4/2025

Peter Hutchinson 35:09, Roy Doutreband +0:42, Ben Hutchinson +0:54, Garth/Karen Reilly +0:58, 16 - 15

8:41, 11; Kalani Vigors 8:43, 12; Emerald Fidge 8:43, 13; Heather Breach 8:45, 14; Lily-Mei Wong 8:52, 15; Anthea Martin 8:53, 16; Sophie Van Hoeck 8:53, 17; Josie Fidge 8:54, 18; Lola Barclay 9:01, 19; Skyie Smith 9:11, 20; Alex Greenhalgh 9:13, 21; Nicole Feain 9:37, 22; Kristy Bridger 9:46, 23; Jenni Riddell 10:06, 24; Tegan Van Hoeck 10:10, 25; Jasmine Conlon 10:28, 26; Barbara Ewart 10:50, 27; Violet Wong 10:54, 28; Sylvie Peck 10:57, 29; Kate Kennedy 11:28, 30; Melanie Upfield 11:32, 31; Alison Fidge 11:36, 32; Nerea Ruiz 11:39, 33; Sara Evans 11:49, 34; Matilda Windmill 12:20, 35; Amanda Evans 12:26, 36; Vicky McClure 12:28, 37; Kirra Bridger 12:35, 38; Stella Hood 12:50, 39; Nikki Greenwood 13:10, 40;

C DomJahn 16-14; D Futcher, R Lane def C Treharne, S Jones 15-11; J Crawford, D Francis def S Hancock, H Harper 21-14; G Duffey, D Lindner def A Stone, J Phillips 22-8; J Rodwell, M Starr def R Coffey, C Cutt 21-17; K Blow, T Blow def L Loadsman, L McLeod 19-13; T Lanchenbury, R Oakley def I Williams, G Williams 25-13.

M Berube, GJ Meyer, R Harris d J Kindred, G Kindred, S Kindred 23 - 15

R Aitken, G Brewis, J Swan d R Ryan, M Hodge, G Cunningham 19 - 14

C Brian, H Major, G Stanford d L Frail, C Hansen, B Smith 33 - 10

G Williams, R Beaumont, B

C Nightingale D Mason. Rink 5: Taylor, G Lane, B Lipman (D) G Wooliet, S Farro, P Jones. Thursday 1/5/2025(AM) J Hampstead, M Campos, J Merchant, H Dunbar (D) J Hampstead, D Foster, L Fairhall, N Haines. Friday 2/5/2025 (2.4.2) Rink 1: R Gurber, B Merchant (D) S Barnard, L Walsh. Rink 2: H Schultz, R Bennell

Finlay 100.4, Johan Greyling 95.3, Phil Hartmann 90.2, Carl P 89.0, Mark Pelmore 87.1, Michael Flower 78.1, Mitch Upton 65.0, Cooper Finlay 44.0 The 50m F-Class match was conducted with 20 participants. Daniel Finlay 196.13, Johan Greyling 196.6, Cooper Finlay 195.9, Ben R 195.4, Hayley R

Daniel Jenkin +1:19, Peter McDonald/Ros Bayliss +1:23, Mark Aujard +1:32, Trevor Saunders +3:06. Medium Race on Bonville –26/4/2025

Mickey O’Brien 46:30, Tom Gibbins +0:12 [faux], Ben

Jasmine Mears 14:20, 41; Georgina Lynch 14:51, 42; Lucy Hood 14:54, 43; Florence Pelmore 14:57, 44; Rhea Nuttall 15:00, 45; Kaya Michener 15:36, 46.

RESULTS: 5km (Male) - Kyle McIntosh 16:29, 1; Nate Cahill 20:03, 2; Oliver Philip 20:36, 3; Michael Venners 21:12, 4; James Karrasch 21:33, 5; Neil Griffin 21:41, 6; Peter Hood 21:48, 7; Ned Griffin 21:52, 8; Alex Greenwood 22:08, 9; Reuben Wong 22:21, 10; Eric Greenwood 22:37, 11; Sam Peck 22:40, 12; Andrew Wong 22:50, 13; Kweller Happ 22:58, 14; Matthew McAleer 26:06, 15; Greg Ewart 26:23, 16; Marcel Philip 28:54, 17; John Philip 28:55, 18; Russell Crane 29:54, 19; Ben Happ 30:40, 20; Tim Karrasch 39:12, 21; Steve Thompson 48:24, 22.

Coffs Harbour Golf Club

By Leah RAY

TUESDAY 6th MAY 9 HOLE

SINGLE STABLEFORD OVERALL

WINNER Suzanne McOrist 17 NTPs - 3rd hole - Marilyn

Waterhouse, 6th - Vicki Kelly

WEDNESDAY 7th MAY SINGLE

STABLEFORD A GRADE - Lyn

Trotman d B Kelly, W Moore, S Jones 16 – 13

M McCabe, R Wisley, D Burridge d P Elliot, R Alford, I Trengrove 25 – 17

J Robinson, D Catling, B Garner d J McLeod, P Newman, M Finn 23 – 13

J Lowndes, M Baker d K Williams, R Felton 20 – 13

I Williams, B Worboys, N McVicar d C Williamson, B Curno, T Lainchbury 22 – 20

(D) N Haines, J Hampstead. Rink 3: K Costelloe, R Shaw (D) P Diamond, G Pallister. Rink 4: J Gibbins, R Whelan ( D ) L Walsh, D Barnard.

Rink 5: J Taylor, P Buck (D) G McInerney, G McInerney. Rink 6: G Lane, M Hopes, R Ryan.(D) I Coltrane, B Symed, K Stirling. Rink 7 N Wood, S Bailey (D) J Martin, C Nightingale.

194.10, Danny W 194.9, Mark Pelmore 192.7, Mitch Upton 191.7, Phil Hartmann 190.4, Leo Lawlor 190.3, Carl P 188.5, Austin Atkinson 183.6, Claude Besse 183.4, Kathryn Matten 181.3, David Frampton 179.3, Sue Cordell 173.2, Daniel Rees 170.1, Michael Walker 155.2, Visitors: Tony Deane 187.4, Tahli Deane 183.7

Hutchinson +1:00, Brian Leiper +1:02, Dan Jenkin +1:51, Mark Aujard +1:58, Peter Grant +2:11, Peter McDonald/Ros Bayliss +2:24, Phil Jenkin +2:31, Mike Mackney +2:55, Trevor Saunders +3:15, Roy Doutreband +3:18, Bob Wallis +3:47.

RESULTS: 5km (Female)Corrine Happ 23:22, 1; Amelia Harrigan 23:22, 2; Kristy Bridger 24:39, 3; Clara Philip 26:02, 4; Sarah Morgan 26:02, 5; Felicity Bates 26:04, 6; Anthea Martin 26:39, 7; Kristie Hood 27:19, 8; Lara Karrasch 27:37, 9; Stacy Wong 27:40, 10; Rowena Mitchell 29:08, 11; Miriam Johnson 29:26, 12; Toni Berrington 35:32, 13.

RESULTS: 10km (Male) - Chris Giffin 40:03, 1; Adam Johnson 44:06, 2; Bruce Meder 49:08, 3; Kieren Ward 55:30, 4.

RESULTS: 10km (Female) - Nicole Feain 41:22, 1; Jess Dougherty 41:54, 2; Janelle Giffin 59:57, 3.

Next week the runs start at the Sandy Beach playground.

Neeves 35, Leah Ray 34, Gayle Jones 33 B GRADE - Mary Quirk 32 (CB), Dot Trevaskis 32, Sandra Cheeseman 30 (CB) NTPs - 12th hole - Tracy Keen, Viv Gayford, Jo Foggiato, 15thJo Habgood, Vicki Hunter 22nd - Trish Mackay, Eda Hilliar, Jo Foggiato, 26th - Gayle Jones, Mary Quirk, Jean O’Connor

Coffs Table Tennis Results

By Margaret ILES

FRIDAY 9th May, 2025

Group A (Divisions 1 & 2)

Reece Baker d Tim Garrad

3/0, Yash Tyagi d Will Fang 3/2, Gerard Martin d Troy Prystasz

3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d Paul Hendriks 3/2.

Coffs Harbour District Darts

By Ray BEASLEY

SAWTELL RSL Club

Summer Comp Monday 5 May

Surgical Steel def Thunderstruck 5-4

Sawtell Golf Results

By Janet O’DOWD

7/5 STROKE & Putting A: Shipman 76, Heather Snow 79.

B: Sandra Guymer 80, Maureen Ryan 81. C: Rosi Hrncir 91c/b,

SPORT RESULTS

Division 1

Reece Baker d Lachlan Dierkx

3/0, Gerard Martin d Yash Tyagi

3/1, Lachlan Dierkx d Yash Tyagi

3/2, Reece Baker d Gerard Martin

3/1. WINNER: Reece Baker from Gerard Martin.

Division 2

Paul Hendriks d Tim Garrad

3/0, Will Fang d Troy Prystasz

3/2, Troy Prystasz d Tim Garrad

3/0, Will Fang d Paul Hendriks

DILLIGAF def Warriors

7-2

Fluke Shots def Bad

Habbits 5-4

Bull Finish - Bye

100s

Cherie (1)

Hannah (2)

Karen C (1)

Ben (1)

Bob (3)

Elaine Everitt 91. Balls to 87c/b. Putting 1: Susan Flint, 2: Linda Wood, 3: Elaine Everitt. Pro pin

Hermie McGuire

8/5 Play 9 Nayden Hill 21. Balls to 20c/b

9/5 Medley Stableford Allan Robertson 39

Female Football Week

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40

Despite a weather-impacted start to the season, the mood has been upbeat whenever boots have met turf, with smiles all around as female football continues its rise in the region.

North Coast Football Competition Administrator Becky Wilson provided insights into the growth of female football.

“Almost 2000 females signed up to play football on the North Coast this year, which is one third of all registrations,” she said, “and the numbers back it up”.

“That’s from Under-6s right through to Masters for players over 31.”

It's a seismic shift from when Wilson first laced-up the boots.

“When I played as a junior, girls had to join boys’ teams.

“Now there’s a girls’ competition in almost every age group - that’s been a real game changer.”

In addition to being the competition administrator and coaching the Premier Youth League Under 14s, Wilson pulls on the jersey herself for the Orara Valley Dingoes in the HIT105.5 Women’s Premier League.

“The Dingoes are a great example of a club embracing female football.

“Almost half our players - 48 percent - are women and girls, and they’re not alone.

“Dorrigo has a staggering 67 percent female participation rate, while Urunga, Sawtell, Northern Storm, Nambucca, Coutts Crossing and Bellingen all top 40 percent.

“It’s fantastic for the future of the game.

“We’ve got really strong numbers in the junior ranks, the challenge now is helping

3/2. WINNER: Will Fang from Paul Hendriks.

Group B (Divisions 3 & 4)

Bo Zhang d Aiden Haigh

3/0, Ann Joy d Riley Gould 3/0, King McKie d Nick Jankovic 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Lulu Zhang

3/0.

Division 3

Bo Zhang d Sharee Templeton

3/2, Ann Joy d King McKie 3/2, King McKie d Sharee Templeton

Chris (1)

Craig S (4)

Dean (5)

Kevin (2)

Kurt (1)

Reg (2)

Ricky (1)

Rob Ho (2)

Sam (1)

Steve (2)

Trevor (2)

10/5 Stableford Peter Matten 35, Andrew Dent 34c/b. Balls to

Sawtell RSL Snooker Club

By Ken MASON

TUESDAY 6th May 2025

growing every year.”

players transition smoothly into the senior and representative competition, which, to be fair, are

NCF General Manager Duncan Marchant emphasised the focus on female football in the region and said the results speak for themselves.

3/1, Bo Zhang d Ann Joy 3/1. WINNER: Bo Zhang from Ann Joy.

Division 4

Lulu Zhang d Aiden Haigh 3/1, Nick Jankovic d Riley Gould 3/1, Riley Gould d Aiden Haigh 3/0, Nick Jankovic d Lulu Zhang 3/2. WINNER: Nick Jankovic from Lulu Zhang. Always looking for new players and members.

High pegs

Asttan (61)

Leader Board

DILLIGAF 66

Surgical Steel 60

Bad Habbits 56

Bull Finish 48

Fluke Shots 47

Warriors 44

Thunderstruck 26

32c/b. NTP 7 A:

Main Draw Winners: - Glen Richards - R/U Henry Legend

Consolation Winners: - Brian Ng - R/U Darrell Wallbridge

“The next challenge for us all is to enhance the coaching and player development, to a point where we can provide new and exciting opportunities for our girls.”

q The TFP’s Under 15s.

q Smuggler at the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race.

Lochie Smith (pro pin), B: Clifford Hutchings

q The TFP’s Under 17s squad.

Brunhilde " Bruni " Dorbecker nee Arch

Bruni passed away peacefully on May 8. at Bellinger River District Hospital.

In loving memory from her husband Hans, her sister Annemarie & Sepp, their sons Andreas & Stefan in Austria, her cousins Monika & Josip in Canada, Craig & Hilda and Michael & Peggy in USA, her friends Elke & Uwe in Germany, Mary & Chris, Mary Buff, Adrian & Barbera, her brothers and sisters in Christ, at the Church of Christ, House of Hope at Bellingen.

Bruni was 79 years old

A Memorial Service to celebrate Bruni's life will be held on Sunday May 25. at the House of Hope, Doyle Street, Bellingen.

Clare Carter (nee Ryan)

7th May 2025

Passed peacefully at The Shoreline, Coffs Harbour. Formerly of Brisbane, Gold Coast and late of Coffs Harbour. Wife of Mervyn (dec). Mother and mother-in-law of Karen & Matthew, Kim & Rodney and Jason & Julia. Grandmother of Brodie, Sarah and Alyssa. Sadly missed by all her family and friends.

Aged 79 Years

A private family service has been held for Clare.

VICTOR RULLIS

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

Death Notices

GLENN

Raymond Barry 11 Farnham Street

Wellington Point QLD 4160

Loving husband to Beth. Proud father to Cheryl and Mark. Grandfather and great-grandfather to their children.

Ray’s Funeral was held at Great Southern Memorial Park, Mount Cotton Road, Carbrook QLD on Tuesday 13th May 2025 at 9:30am.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

MONCK

Edward John ‘Ted’

8th May 2025, passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. Late of Coffs Harbour. Dearly beloved husband of Mandi and Irene (dec’d).

Loving father and father-in-law of Dean & Lisa and Carol & Richard. Special friend of Mandi’s children. Fond grandfather of Ashley, Kane and great-grandfather of Ellynie. ‘Poppy Ted’ of Mandi’s grandchildren.

Aged 83 Years

A True Gentleman

Ted’s Funeral Service was held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Wednesday 14th May 2025.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

BROTHERTON

Bruce Leonard

9th May 2025, passed peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus with family by his side. Late of Repton, formerly of Dubbo and Forbes. Loving husband of Lyn. Father & father-in-law of Donna & Gerad and Jason. Adored poppy of Vera and Jude.

Aged 75 Years

Always In Our Hearts

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Bruce’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 16th May 2025 commencing at 11.30 am, thence for interment in Urunga Cemetery, Urunga.

Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Robert D’Arcy ‘Bob’ 11th May 2025, peacefully at Mater Christi Aged Care. Much loved husband of Pat (dec’d). Cherished father and father-in-law of Jenny & Peter Hoad, Tony & Annette, Kate & Mick, Paul & Kelly (dec’d), Robert (dec’d), James & Susan and Anne & David. Adored pop of 13 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Bob will be sadly missed by all of his extended family and friends. Bob

‘Mr Mac’ & Pat ran Peter’s Café at the Coffs Harbour Jetty from 1971 to 1998.

Aged 92 Years

Bob Was A Coffs Icon Who Left A Generation With Lasting Memories

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Bob’s Funeral Prayers to be celebrated in St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Coffs Harbour on Wednesday 21st May 2025 commencing at 11.00 am, thence for interment in Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery, Karangi. Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

C.B.RADIO hand held Rechargeable 38CH Needs new batteries 5633 6352

For Lease

Commercial premises

Hyde St, Bellingen 7m x 8m plus wash room & parking. Suit accountants, solicitors, haridressers or office. Has cool room that can be purchased for nonfat cooking. Rent $350 per week. Contact Milly Raymond at Ray White Real Estate 0458 079 070 or 6657 1777

F140325 Plants For Sale FROM $5 - hundreds of plants including hanging pots. Open every day. 11 Sand Street Coffs Harbour. e230525

Garage Sale

RESTAURANT space available for lease at BP Boambee Located just after the upcoming bypass ends. For more info, please contact Ravi on 0402 361 772 or raviteja@bossaus.com

SAT 17th May 7.30am - 12pm. 8 Karuah Ave Last and final chance Everything must go Kitchen items, glassware tools, furniture, vintage childrens books, CD's DVD's

3 items suitable for disability or elderly person Shower chair, toilet seat w/ adjustable height commodes. All in EUC $100 0491 035 704

CAMPING Gear. All VGC. Camp kitchen $65. Gas heater for annex $35. Pop up ensuite $50. Hanging storage cupboard $30 0408 223 662

CLOTHES Dryer

Electric oven, Four 16” mag wheels 2 with tyres. 0448 802 146

ALUM Extension Ladder - 4.5m. $100 ono. 0491 035 704

BAMBOO wireless keyboard. Something different. New in box. $35 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

BIRD cage GUC $12 6656 4700

BLACK and Decker Rebating Planer 650W unused $50 0439 682 267 SOLD

BLOODSTONE work boots mens size 11 $50 0491 363 638F020525

BODY Board, Manta Pro Comp Rail with leash, turns quick, Red/ Black, 44inch - 20 inch wide, VGC. $49. Ph 0417 471 225

BOOKS, Cleveland Bison, Weston paperbacks. Bundle of 25 - $75. Pick up only 0400 513 862

SOLD

CAMP oven 2qt new $25 (with accessories $40) 0439 682 267

CAMP oven (oval) 10qt as new $80 0439 682 267

CAMPING mats 6x interlocking 600x600 $30 ($5ea) 0439 682 267

CHILD double push chair/bike. Red & black. 3 large wheels/brakes/ raincover/reflectors/ safety restraints. 600cm H x 600cm W x 700 cm D. As new $99.90 0415 981 605

DOG bed, plastic medium $8 6656 4700 F020525

ELDERY bed safety rail for seniors brand new in box $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

ELECTRIC can opener $7.50. 6650 0350 F090225

ELECTRIC heater Abode EUC $50 6656 4700

EXERCISE bike, $65 Ph 0408 653 970

FORD V8 Cleveland and Windsor heads and exhaust manifolds from $75. 0499 684 401 F160525

FOX tail palm seeds $1 each, beautiful North QLD palm 66538337 / 0419 166 688

GIRLS Dressing Table Circa 1950’s original mirror & handles $80 0427 544 008

GOLD frame mirror. 75 x 50cm GC $45. Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

GRANITE coffee table sitting on nice wrought iron frame 58cm L x 41cm W x 44cm H Perfect condition. $50 0491 035 704 F070325

GOLF Clubs Left Hand Full set with bag, brand new $350 or best offer 0408 653 970

HEAVY duty glass table top. 90cm Diameter x 1cm thick $65 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

HOME brew lever action bottle capper used $20 5633 6352

JACKET, Ladies Brown, suede leather Size 10, zip front, no marks $45. 0407654879

LADIES clothing mostly new, size 6. Must sell going cheap. Contact Kim 0403 280 231

PAIR of lovely jacquared fabric vintage-style footrest 60cm x 40cmx 30cm H $35 each Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119 F140225

PAVERS 90mm square $1 each. 0467 640 964 F190724

PEAK ellipse rollator safewok load 1150kgs only 6mth old As New $95 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

PIANO Leider. Recently tuned & recond’d $1300. 0402 264 715

PORCELAIN biscuit jar (8in high) with cream and jam pots, tea strainer and small flat teaspoon holder. $35 0400 641 561

LADIES Colorado Silverton CF sure grip black leather work/walking shoe size 8, still new in box. $90. 6655 3193

LARGE quanity of stained glass panels worth over $2,000 Asking $1000. 0491 035 704 best contact early morning/evening

LARGE outdoor umbrella with steel brace $60. 0498 090 551 F140624

LEATHER lounge 3 x 1 + 2 x 1, 2 timber outdoor settings & 2 budgies in large cage. 0407 580 436

LOUNGE suite, green fabric, dbl couch + 2 reclining chairs $100 0412 254 563

LOVELY vertical circular 5 shelves display tower for collectibles etc. $80 6652 3791

OFFICE Chair, no arm rests $7.50 ono 6650 0350

PORCELAIN biscuit jar $18 ono - For die-hard morning tea enthusiasts! 0400 641 561F210225

RAILWAY line small gauge, 70mm high x 5m lengths. Suit cattle grid, $75 each 0499 684 401

RECORDING vocal booth ISK RF-5 Desk or stand mount, unused still boxed. $100. Ph 0409 561 719 F240125

4981 8882

SMALL bar fridge in good working order $100. 6649 1472

SMALL mobile bench 2 shelves, suit shop or office. $40. 6652 3791

STOOL seats. Variety size, type and colour. $30 6652 3791

COAST TEASPOONS large collection as new feat various

for Classifieds (02) 4981 8882

TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both

exercise benches, 9 sets of weights, 3 sets of bars and weights. For individual sale or the lot for $250. 6656 4293

1976 F100 guards, doors grills and bonnet from $100. 0499 684 401

2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS sound bar only 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100. 0412 081 950 F240125

FREE firewood - not treated. Cut from old furniture. 0491 035 704

44 gallon drum with lid. $70. 66538337 / 0419 166 688

DOG house, smallmedium $15 6656 4700

HOOVER EVC500 Evaporative Cooler, new from Bunnings $299, still in box. $80. 0434212460

SOUND Bar 2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100 Ph 0412 081 950

SOLD

DOG house, large $35 6656 4700

DOG kennel, grey exc cond, heavy duty plastic, 70cm H x 70cm W x 63cm D. $40 0415 981 605 F210325

HUGH vintage mirror. 100cm x 70cm. can be hung horizontal or vwertical. $75 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119

OLD rosewood fence posts, suit wood turning & wood craft from $30 each. 0499 684 401

OZTRAIL slat table Aluminium roll up. As new. 70cm W x 70cm D x 64cm H $30 0415 981 605

Boats

SUDOKU

Kids Boot Camp

COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

ONTHEBOX

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

EUROVISION: ACCESS ALL AREAS

SBS, 7.30pm

Kelis’ “Milkshake” might bring all the boys to her yard, but there’s a new dairy delight on the block this year, with Australia’s infectious Eurovision Song Contest entry “Milkshake Man” already shimmying its way up charts all around the world. Manjimup-raised popstar Go-Jo is set to burst onto the stage in Switzerland, opening the show for semi-final 2, live at 5am (AEST). The party continues at 7.30pm, when commentators Courtney Act and Tony Armstrong (both pictured) showcase Wednesday’s first semi-final at a reasonable hour for those of us who prefer a sleep-in.

FRIDAY, May 16

6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Sherwood. (Final, Mlv) The Sparrows are on the warpath. 9.30 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program.

Big Boys. (Mls, R)

ABC Late News.

Father Brown. (PGa, R)

12.05 Mayfair Witches. (Mal, R)

12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

SATURDAY

CALL THE MIDWIFE

ABC TV, 7.30pm

This popular period drama follows a group of midwives and nuns working in the East End of London – initially set in the late 1950s, the series has now stretched into the 1960s and 1970s. Delving into the happenings of the neighbourhood of Poplar, it weaves historical events into the narrative while focusing on the personal lives of the sisters and the social and medical advancements of the time. Series 13 is set in 1969. Tonight’s double episode sees Reggie (Daniel Laurie) back home and helping Fred (Cliff Parisi, pictured) in the garden, while Violet (Annabelle Apsion) runs for mayor. Then, everyone is excited about the moon landing and the Nonnatus House television set is in high demand.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Eurovision: Access All Areas. (M) Catch all the behind-the-scenes action. 10.00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes: Seahouses – Les Ferdinand. (PGa, R) 11.10 Atlantic Crossing. (PGal, R) 12.15 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R)

2.05 The Head. (Malv, R)

3.40 Incredible Homes. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SUNDAY MASTERCHEF

AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7pm

Usually when plating up dishes for the MasterChef judges, a cracked crispbread, smouldering s’more or bubbling broth would be cause for concern

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 10. Sydney v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 House Of Wellness. (PGl, R) Looks at baby names and body language.

12.45 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv) Joey is stabbed while in protective custody.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6am The Emperor’s Club. Continued. (2002, PG) 7.50 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 10.00 La La Land. (2016, M) 12.20pm Winter’s Tale. (2014, M) 2.30 Selkie. (2000, PG) 4.10 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 6.00 Paris Can Wait.

elimination challenge, it’s the name of the game. Judges Jean-Christophe Novelli, Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow (pictured) and Sofia Levin want to see the bottom two teams from the French service challenge showcase their very best tableside theatre tricks. Novelli gets things started with a fiery crêpes suzette demonstration, Allen reveals his saltbaked mud crab and Yeow presents her intricate and elegant thousand-cut tofu lily. With 75 minutes and an open pantry, the contestants race to create their own showstoppers – or risk going home.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. Canterbury Bulldogs v Sydney Roosters.

9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.

10.45 MOVIE: Into The Blue. (2005, Mdlv, R) A group of divers finds illegal cargo. Paul Walker. 12.50 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (R)

1.20 Explore: Well Bread. (R)

ONTHEBOX

SATURDAY,

6.00

May 17

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 11.05 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Women’s race. H’lights. 3.00 Heroines. (PG) 3.30 Gymnastics. FIG World Cup. H’lights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 7. H’lights. 5.30 How To Lose A War. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

6.10 Father Brown. (PGa) Lady Felicia asks for Father Brown’s help.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PG) Reggie comes home for a few weeks’ holiday and helps Fred make over the green space outside St Oswald’s church. 9.30 Bergerac. (Mlv, R) Bergerac doesn’t care how many cages he rattles in his quest to find kidnapped baby Lily.

10.20 Hard Quiz Battle Of The Influencers. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

10.50 The Split: Barcelona. (Final, Ml, R) Explosive secrets come to light.

11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.50pm Play School Science Time. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 11.00 Late Programs.

7.30 Eurovision: Access All Areas. (M) Catch all the behind-the-scenes action.

10.00 The Day The Rock Star Died: David Bowie. (PG) Looks at David Bowie, who was the leading figure in popular music for over five decades.

10.30 Alone Australia. (M, R)

11.35 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)

2.20 Michael Mosley: The Doctor Who Changed Britain. (PG, R)

2.55 Dirty Bird. (R) Short film.

3.00 Incredible Homes. (R)

4.00 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

5.00 Eurovision. (PG)

VICELAND (31)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Andrew Ramsden Race Day. Scone Cup Carnival. Doomben 10,000 Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Americas: Andes. (PG) Takes a look at The Andes. 8.00 MOVIE: Jurassic Park. (1993, PGv, R) Genetically engineered dinosaurs run amok in an isolated theme park after a security breakdown. Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum.

10.25 MOVIE: Predator. (1987, Mlv, R) A team of mercenaries is hunted by an alien. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers.

12.40 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv) Vinny settles his account with Alo.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGl, R)

7TWO (62)

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Lara.

Continued. (2019, PG, German) 6.50 Selkie. (2000, PG) 8.30 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 10.20 Purple Rain. (1984, M) 12.25pm Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 2.35 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 4.35 Sissi. (1955, German) 6.35 The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. (2008) 8.30 Finding Your Feet. (2017, M) 10.35 Getaway Of Love. (2015, MA15+, Italian) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00

SUNDAY,

May 18

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current

(R)

6.30 Compass. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano. (PG)

8.30 Bergerac. (Mal) Bergerac goes rogue with a new lead that brings him into direct conflict with Arthur Wakefield.

9.15 Reunion. (Premiere, MA15+l)

A deaf ex-prisoner seeks revenge.

10.15 MOVIE: Judy And Punch. (2019, MA15+v, R) Mia Wasikowska.

12.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R)

12.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)

3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGaw, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Judo. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG World Cup. H’lights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 8. H’lights. 5.30 The Seabees On Iwo Jima. (PGav)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Eurovision: Access All Areas. (M) Catch all the behind-the-scenes action, exclusive insights and powerhouse performances.

12.00 MOVIE: Amazing Grace. (2018, G, R) Aretha Franklin.

1.35 24 Hours In Emergency: Lead By Example. (Ma, R)

4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 Jabba’s Movies. (PGhv, R) 3.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (R) 4.30 Highway Cops. (PGal, R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGdls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Norfolk Narco Cartel. (Madl) Looks inside a major police operation.

10.10 Crime Investigation Australia. (MA15+av, R)

11.30 Autopsy USA. (Mav)

12.30 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PG)

8.30 MOVIE: Quantum Of Solace. (2008, Mv, R)

10.40 MOVIE: Rambo: Last Blood. (2019, MA15+adlv, R)

12.30 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)

1.00 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (Ma, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Kelly meets a fluff ball named Jinglebells. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A Greek couple look for a fresh start. 8.40 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a spacious, character-filled home with guest accommodation and a workshop. 9.40 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows paramedics as they respond to a seven-year-old boy who is gasping for air. 10.40 Elsbeth. (PGlv, R) Elsbeth is summoned to jury duty. 11.40 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. Continued. (2008) 6.55 Sissi. (1955, German) 8.55 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 10.35 Fame. (1980, M) 1pm Speed Kills. (2018, M) 2.55 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 4.50 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 6.40 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 8.30 Johnny Mnemonic. (1995, M) 10.20 Sirley. (2020, M, Italian) 12.10am Zola. (2020, MA15+) 1.45 Saint Maud. (2019, MA15+) 3.20 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PG)

9.30 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Malv) 10.30 9News Late.

11.00 See No Evil. (Ma) 11.50 Surf Boats. (R)

12.40 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGm, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

7MATE (64)

8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

BOLD (51) 9GEM (82) 9GEM (82)

(34) 7MATE (64)

MOVIE: Hunter Killer. (2018, MA15+) 10.45 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.10pm Motor Racing. Indycar Series. Sonsio Grand Prix. H’lights. 2.20 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. H’lights. 3.30 Jeopardy! UK. 4.30 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone. (2001, PG) 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Allo! Allo! 9.10 Only Fools And Horses. 9.50 Planet Earth III. 10.55 Ancient Aliens. 11.55 UFOs: Top Secret Alien Files. 1.35pm Moon Landing: The Lost Tapes. 2.35 MOVIE: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. (1968) 5.35 MOVIE: The Pink Panther.

6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. The latest elimination challenge is held. 8.15 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a house but she wants a Hamptons-style cottage with a pool and he seeks a home with character and a toolshed. 9.15 FBI. (MA15+v) Maggie and OA investigate the deaths of two women who were murdered with napalm.

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ONTHEBOX

MONDAY, May 19

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6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 The Gospel According To Marcia. (PG, R) 11.30 Art Works. (PGa, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.00 House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Tough Trains. (Ma, R) 11.05 The Lost World Of Joseph Banks. (PGl, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Death In The Tower: King Richard. (Mav, R) 3.00 Travel Shooters. (PG) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (al) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 9. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo. (Premiere)

8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Albania And The Adriatic. (PGa, R)

9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Classified. (Mlv)

11.35 Don’t Leave Me. (Malv, R)

1.35 Incredible Homes. (R)

3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 The Crystal Maze. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Late Programs.

6am Morning

Programs. 6.55 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 8.45

Viajeros. (2022, PG, Spanish) 10.20 Finding Your Feet. (2017, M) 12.25pm Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 2.00 The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. (2008) 3.55 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.40 Courted. (2015, PG, French) 7.30 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 9.40 Prison 77. (2022, MA15+, Spanish) Midnight Late Programs.

TUESDAY, May 20

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Compass. (PG, R) 11.00 If You’re Listening. (R) 11.20 Gruen. (PGs, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (Ma, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 2.55 House Of Games. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50

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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.55 The Lost World Of Joseph Banks. (Ma, R) 11.30 Dream Of Italy. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 I Am Not A Number. (PGa) 2.25 Going Places. (R) 2.55 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Ml)

8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.

10.05 SBS World News Late.

10.35 Living Black. (R)

11.05 Snow. (Malv)

12.00 The Lesson. (Mals, R)

2.25 Incredible Homes. (R)

4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.50 Japan 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. (PGav)

7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) The farmers take the new ladies on a solo date.

9.05 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Mav) Owen makes a decision about his future. 10.05 Suits L.A. (M) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 Treadstone. (MA15+av) 1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

WorldWatch.

The Movie Show. 12.15pm WorldWatch. 12.45 Homicide. 2.35 Cryptoland. 3.05

3.10 WorldWatch. 5.10 Forged In Fire:

Of. 6.00

7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 9.15 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 10. 1.35am Shoresy. 1.55 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am The Movie Show. 6.20 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 8.10 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 10.05 Unique Brothers. (2014, M, Italian) 11.55 Johnny Mnemonic. (1995, M) 1.45pm Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 3.35 Arthur And The Two Worlds War. (2010, PG) 5.30 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 7.30 T-34. (2018, M, Russian) 9.35 Pride And Glory. (2008, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa) Farmer Tom meets families in home town visits. 9.10 Doc. (Ma) Amy and Sonya endeavour to help a teen in need of a bone marrow transplant.

10.10 Accused. (M) A tech entrepreneur finds himself on trial. 11.10 The Agenda Setters. 12.10 The Act. (MA15+ans, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Floor. (PG) 8.45 100% Footy. (M) 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Aussie Road Train Truckers. (Ml)

Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Mals)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Hello SA. (PG)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

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ONTHEBOX

WEDNESDAY, May 21

THURSDAY,

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (M)

8.40 Mysteries Of Sink Holes. (PGav, R)

9.35 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 My Brilliant Friend. (Mal)

12.05 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Malv, R)

3.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

11.00 Born To Kill? (MA15+av, R)

12.00 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (Mls) 8.30 The Grand Tour. (Ml)

10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

11.00 9News Late. 11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R) 12.15 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R) 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

6.00

Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20

May 22

11.50 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Viajeros. Continued. (2022, PG, Spanish) 7.30 Arthur And The Two Worlds War. (2010, PG) 9.25 Courted. (2015, PG, French) 11.15 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 1.25pm Belli Ciao. (2022, M, Italian) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 5.45 RBG. (2018, PG) 7.35 The Flood. (2019, M) 9.30 A Most Violent Year. (2014, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs. 5.50am The Movie Show.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 History’s Greatest Mysteries. (PG, R)

8.25 Liberation: D-Day To Berlin. (M)

9.15 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mav)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Carmen Curlers. (Mas, R)

12.45 Pagan Peak. (MA15+a, R)

2.50 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6am The Movie Show. 6.25 RBG. (2018, PG) 8.15 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 10.15 La Jauria. (2022, M, Spanish) 11.50 T-34. (2018, M, Russian) 1.55pm After Yang. (2021, PG) 3.45 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 5.25 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 7.40 Arctic. (2018, M) 9.30 Gangster Squad. (2013, MA15+) 11.35 Rob The Mob. (2014, M) 1.30am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Kirby and Remi are at loggerheads.

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Hosted by Graeme Hall.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) The third set of semi-finalists set out to impress the judges and viewers at home.

10.30 The Amazing Race. (PG)

12.00 Raines. (Mahv)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00

Female Football Week

By David WIGLEY

Hardwood T&G Flooring, Decking, Screening, Cladding, Lining Boards, Joinery, Dressed Boards, Posts, Handrail, Bench Tops, Stair Treads & Risers, Sawn Structural Hardwoods, Builders Poles, Fencing Timber, Sleepers, Decking Oil & Decking Screws and more

q The Talented Female Program Under 13s squad celebrating Female Football Week.

PLAYERS from the Talented Female Program brought enthusiasm and excitement to Female Football Week on the North Coast.