WITH four months to go before winging their way from the heart of Australia’s Red Centre to WA in the 12th Outback Air Race, the number of teams taking part is a full house of 45.
A major fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), the teams are now working hard on gaining sponsorship.
It’s the fourth race for Coffs Harbour’s “Triple Whiskey on the Rocks” aviators Warren Millar and John Harris who will be joined this year by Greg
Greg purchased a share in the VH-WWW from Geoff Leaver, who competed in the past three events.
He recently earned his private pilot licence and is keen to move on from flying circuits to experiencing the challenges of real outback flying.
This year team Triple Whiskey has set an ambitious fundraising target of $30,000.
The funds go towards outfitting RFDS aircraft with essential medical equipment for treating sick and injured patients.
Coffs team, Bonza Bonanza, is husband and wife Matt and Sim Varley.
They are flying a VH-ANX.
“Matt and I entered… after being introduced to the race by the boys at Coffs Harbour Aero Club,” Sim said.
The opportunity was too good to pass up.
“The adventure is an incredible way to see our beautiful country, gain valuable navigation and flying experience, and network with other pilots from all over Australia,” Sim said.
“More important than the trip of a lifetime we will be embarking on, and the challenge of trying to win a leg or two, we are incredibly proud to be supporting and fundraising for the
Royal Flying Doctor Service.
“We have seen the importance of the RFDS all over Australia and we feel so privileged to be part of this event.”
Family day care provider talks childcare concerns
By Ned COWIE
WITH the Mid North Coast experiencing a crisis in childcare which sees parents struggling to find care for their children when they return to work, NOTA spoke exclusively with Sue Parker of Midcoast Family Day Care (MFDC) to discuss some of the challenges.
Prospective family daycare educators in NSW must register with an organisation like MFDC to offer their services, and the longrunning business has more than 90 educators providing care for close to 1000 children across the region.
Other costs for educators include training courses in child protection, first aid and safe sleeping as well as working with children checks and insurance.
“Many educators are frightened to take babies because of the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and restrictions in place to ensure their safety,” Sue said.
While not advocating for safety regulations to be dropped, Sue would like to see changes to reflect the specifics of either home daycare or centre-based care.
Sue also believes family day care should be a compulsory unit of study (rather than an elective) in the Certificate III of Early Childhood Education, and argues travel grants should be restored to support providers who must travel many kilometres to visit educators.
“Currently this has to be absorbed by the income we raise through levies to parents,” she explained.
“For the last few years governments of all sides (Labor and Coalition) have been shifting the cost of childcare back onto parents,” said Sue.
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“There have been a number of changes over the past few years affecting our industry, leading to an overall drop in available places,” Sue told NOTA.
“I can tell you we will not have a vacancy in our service until at least 2027 and this means the urgent reform of the system needs to start now,” she said.
According to Sue, most landlords do not allow tenants to open their homes for family daycare, and there are many costly legislated requirements for homes offering the service.
One example of this is a requirement for safety glass.
She believes not enough has been done to highlight the work of home day care providers and the childcare industry in general.
“We used to have our own department within government with great support for the sector but over the years this has been eroded by all sides of government,” she said.
To help educators set up their homes for family day care, Sue would like to see “set up grants” returned to community-based services and believes the current focus on setting up new large day care centres is unfair.
She is also calling for greater access to the Inclusion Support Subsidy for family day care educators, which provides extra funding for children with disabilities.
Victoria, although now retired, was a longterm family daycare educator in the region. She agrees that the family daycare model can provide an unrivalled level of care for children.
Victoria told NOTA she believes children benefit from the relaxed family-centric environment, while parents frequently report that they love the consistency of having the same educator each day.
Passionate advocates for their field, both women hope that family day care can continue to be an option for parents into the future.
“The demand is so high and I feel terrible when I have to tell parents that I have no places available,” Sue said.
Starting on 22 August, the race is a time trial of nine legs from Yulara to Carnarvon. For more information, visit the race website at outbackairrace.com.au.
q Coffs team ‘Bonza Bonanza’s’ Matt and Sim Varley.
TOURISM TOWN: Coffs Harbour in the running for tourism award
FROM Page 1
special,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“We’ve got world-class natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and a visitor economy that supports thousands of local jobs.
“This award is our chance to put Coffs in the national spotlight – and celebrate the region we’re all so proud to call home.”
City Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said the town’s submission focuses on the region’s growing reputation as a destination for adventure seekers.
“Our entry highlights the wild, unforgettable experiences available right across the Coffs Coast –from skydiving and kayaking to Indigenous cultural immersion, scuba diving and rainforest exploration,” Mr Beswick said.
“It’s all underpinned by our strong sustainability credentials as NSW’s first ECO Certified Destination.
“These are the kind of high-value, low-impact travellers we’re proud to attract – and this award is another step in telling that story.”
With a stunning coastline, World Heritage-listed rainforests, local makers and growers, and a dynamic arts and events scene, Coffs Harbour continues to grow its national profile as a place where culture, community and nature thrive side by side.
Locals and businesses are encouraged to show their support by casting a vote online and sharing the link with friends, family and colleagues across the country. Voting is open now and closes Sunday 4 May.
Record number of candidates for Cowper
By Sue STEPHENSON
VOTERS in Cowper will choose from 11 candidates for the House of Representatives in the Federal Election on 3 May.
The final number is a record for the electorate and was revealed at the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) office in Kempsey on Friday, just before a blindfolded official drew ballot positions from numbered balls in a bingo-like cage.
A total of 1456 candidates were declared at public events across Australia on 11 April.
Of these, 1126 are contesting 150 lower house positions and 330 are vying for 40 Senate vacancies.
The AEC also revealed that a record 98.2 percent of eligible Australians (18,098,797) are now enrolled to vote, which represents an increase of 870,000 people (five percent) since the 2022 election.
The youth enrolment rate has also increased to 92 percent.
In order of how they will appear on the ballot paper, the candidates for Cowper are:
1) Greg Vigors - Coffs Coast (Labor)
2) Zeke Daley - Nambucca (Independent)
3) Megan Mathew (Legalise Cannabis Party)
7) Peter Jackel (Family First)
8) Wendy Firefly - Bellingen (The Greens)
9) Caz Heise - Coffs Harbour (Independent)
10) Geoffrey Marlow (Fusion Party)
11) Chris Walsh (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation).
About Cowper
The Cowper electorate has existed since Federation and is named after fivetime Premier of NSW, Sir Charles Cowper. It runs from Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, including Kempsey, South West Rocks, Bellingen and Dorrigo.
Nationals MP Pat Conaghan has held the seat since 2019.
Vote at https://nswtourismassoc.kartra.com/ survey/TopTourismTown.
4) Geoffrey Shannon - Port Macquarie (Trumpet of Patriots)
5) Pat Conaghan - Port Macquarie (Nationals)
6) Paul Templeton - Coffs Harbour (Libertarian)
q The candidates for Cowper (L-R) in order of their appearance on the ballot paper (see story).
q The official ballet draw for Cowper in Kempsey. Photo: Pat Conaghan FB.
Cowper candidates face-off in lively affair
By Ned COWIE
EIGHT candidates for Cowper in the upcoming Federal Election have faced-off in Kempsey.
The Meet the Candidates event at the Pensioner’s Club was attended by around 100 people and proved to be a lively and fast-paced affair.
The Lower House and Upper House candidates included Wendy Firefly (The Greens), Greg Vigors (Labor), Geoffrey Marlow (Fusion Party), Pat Conaghan (Nationals), Chris Walsh (One Nation), Megan Mathew (Legalise Cannabis), Zeke Daley (Independent) and Senate hopeful Michael O’Neill (Heart Party).
Independent Caz Heise was ill and unable to attend.
Each was given two minutes to respond to questions ranging from how they would tackle inflationary pressures on the cost of living, to the lack of available housing, and rising energy prices.
Single mother of five and grandmother of three Megan Mathew, said she was running for the Legalise Cannabis
Party because, “I’m sick of whinging and there’s no point whinging if you’re not going to stand up and do something about it.”
She said one way to ease cost of living pressures would be to legalise cannabis as many are “paying upwards of $1200 a month to access medication that keeps them alive”.
She agreed with cutting the fuel excise and stopping supermarket price gouging, while advocating for Medicare to be broadened to include dental - among other health services.
Several conservative candidates on the panel expressed their anger at Australia’s “net zero” policy direction.
“We have this pivotal natural resource in Australia, it’s called coal,” Michael O’Neill of the Heart Party said.
“We ship it ‘en masse’ over to somewhere else, but we have this great ideology that we are saving the planet.
“This is an absurdity which doesn’t make sense, it is hurting the people and driving [up] our cost of power.”
q Candidates (L-R) Wendy Firefly (Greens), Greg Vigors (Labor), Geoffrey Marlow (Fusion), Pat Conaghan (Nationals), Chris Walsh (One Nation), Senate hopeful Michael O’Neill (Heart), Zeke Daley (Independent) and Megan Mathew (Legalise Cannabis).
Independent Zeke Daley, who is aged 18, wants to bring back manufacturing in Australia to improve employment and lower prices.
“Why are we exporting everything (raw materials) overseas and then importing everything (manufactured goods),” he said.
The Heart, One Nation and Nationals candidates said a large portion of new house prices was due to government fees and regulations.
“Some of the council and
government costs add up to about 50 percent of the actual build,” Nationals incumbent Pat Conaghan said.
Fusion Party’s Geoffrey Marlow wants to remove Land Tax and “uphaul” the “entire rental and homeownership system” in order to decrease the cost and accessibility of housing.
One Nation’s Chris Walsh is advocating to cut councils out of building processes; allow people to access superannuation; and cut immigration to reduce
housing prices.
Labor’s Greg Vigors spoke about the achievements of the current government.
“Housing Australia’s Future Fund has 55,000 low-income social housing projects in the pipeline being actually built,” he said.
“Labor has fully funded budgeted programs that are happening [now].”
Greens candidate Wendy Firefly caused a momentary shock when she replied that, “The cheapest way to improve our cost of living and bring
prices down for electricity, is to electrify everyone and everything.”
She explained that she meant every household, business and home should have solar and batteries installed to create “free, community-owned energy.”
Also absent from the list of 11 on the lower house ballot were Paul Templeton (Libertarian), Peter Jackel (Family First) and Geoffrey Shannon (Trumpet of Patriots).
A week of policy and funding announcements in Cowper
IT has been another big week of campaigning in the seat of Cowper, with multiple funding and policy announcements.
On Monday, the National Party promised to provide $300,000 to Coffs Harbour youth sporting program RISE if the Coalition is successful at the Federal Election.
Federal Member and Nationals candidate for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the commitment would allow the program to continue in full for the next two years.
"With the issues we are seeing among our youth right across the country, it’s so important to recognise and safeguard our community driven organisations that are actively building a sense of support and belonging, and RISE Coffs Harbour is a great example,” Mr Conaghan said.
“RISE provides a structured curriculum that trains youth in technical football and team building skills and teaches positive values including trust, respect, discipline and patience.”
Late last week, Mr Conaghan promised $600,000 to Macksville youth program ShoreTrack.
"Tackling the issue of disenfranchised youth in our community requires a multifaceted approach, and part of that approach is ensuring
that successful programs like ShoreTrack are adequately supported to expand and thrive not just for today but into the future,” Mr Conaghan said.
“The training courses they provide not only equip our young people with important skills for future employment, they provide a support system that enhances self-worth and confidence in student-aged kids that have fallen through the cracks of our traditional education systems.”
The Coalition also promised $11 million for phase three of Bellingen Shire Council’s Sewering Coastal Villages project, if elected to government.
The National party say the funding will allow for an additional 30 new residential properties to connect to the system and “double industrial capacity at Raleigh”.
Mr Conaghan said by connecting sewerage, the project could facilitate muchneeded housing in Repton, Raleigh and Urunga.
As reported in News Of The Area last week, construction on the project’s second stage is now underway.
Bellingen Shire Council originally applied for third stage funding in 2022 under the previous government’s Building Better Regions Fund, before the funding program
was discontinued.
“An elected Coalition Government will right that wrong and get this funding into these works straight away, to not only safeguard our current infrastructure, but lay the groundwork for new housing and industry in the future,” Mr Conaghan said.
Meanwhile, Independent candidate Caz Heise called for the establishment of a federally-funded “Local Energy Hub” in Cowper, to help local households, farms and small businesses “cut power bills, reduce emissions, and take advantage of the shift to cleaner, cheaper energy”.
She said the Hub would operate as an outreach centre, staffed by energy experts who provide faceto-face advice and connect people with grants, installers and proven solutions.
“A Local Energy Hub in Cowper would provide clear, practical advice, connect people with funding options, and make it easier to cut bills and electrify our homes and businesses.”
The Hub model builds on existing council and community programs in towns like Hay, Narrabri and Mitchell.
Spokesperson for the national Local Energy Hubs campaign, Pat Simons,
welcomed the call for a Cowper hub and said dozens of other communities across regional Australia are pushing for the same.
“We have an opportunity right now to ensure Australia’s shift to renewables delivers local, long-term benefits for regional communities,” Mr Simons said.
Ms Heise also condemned the Coalition’s proposed cuts to public service jobs.
“The proposal by Peter Dutton and supported by the Nationals will impact aged care and disability services, and our ability to respond to emergencies or provide pensioners, veterans and their families with life saving support.”
The Independent candidate pointed to the Department of Veterans’
Affairs as a key example of the damage caused by public sector cuts.
“Years of underfunding left veterans without timely access to support,” she said.
“Only recent investment in rebuilding DVA staffing levels has begun to reverse the backlog and improve services.
“Any cuts to staffing of the Department of Veteran Affairs will result in increased processing times for veteran claims, thereby increasing their stress levels, particularly for those suffering mental health issues.”
Additionally, Ms Heise pledged to collaborate with Dementia Australia on the “critical issues facing Australians living with dementia and their families”, stressing the need for immediate action at all levels of government.
Labor candidate Greg Vigors meanwhile has called for a strong emphasis from Cowper candidates on mental health issues in the electorate.
“In the short time we have left until the election, I would like to hear from all candidates on how they see this critically important issue and their plans to make a difference,” he said.
“It affects so many families in our region.
“Most of us either suffer
personally from mental health issues or have someone close to them who does.
“A Federal Election is the perfect time for all of us to ask our prospective representatives how they will address this critically important issue.”
Mr Vigors told NOTA he is optimistic the funding for Medicare mental health centres recently announced by the Albanese Government can make a “big difference”.
He also applauded the government’s planned expansion and extension of Headspace services.
“Headspace already provides much needed free mental health care and support for people aged 12 to 25.
“The recent announcement expands those services through Headspace Plus centres and youth specialist care centres, where there will be a greater level of clinical support for young people with more serious and complex mental health issues.
“Those new options will drastically reduce the need for acute hospital care for young people with mental health issues.
“It means we have a much greater capacity to keep our young people out of hospital but still provide the specialist care they need.”
q Nationals candidate Pat Conaghan MP with members of the RISE program.
q Independent Caz Heise with energy hub advocates Stuart Watson and Rob Snow.
q Labor’s Greg Vigors is calling on all Cowper candidates to make mental health a major focus of the campaign.
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Fusion Party hoping to make impact in Cowper
THE Fusion Party has selected Geoffrey Marlow as its candidate for Cowper in the Federal Election.
The party was formed in 2021 through an amalgamation of the Science Party, Pirate Party, Secular Party, Vote Planet, and Climate Change Justice Party.
It strives for a “free, fair, and innovative society for current and future generations, with meaningful work to meet the critical social and ecological challenges of our times”.
“We are a movement focused on a fair and inclusive society for every single Australian with equality for all rather than a masked equity for some,” said Mr Marlow.
“We aim to harness new and innovative industries and bring Australian health and civil and digital liberties to the forefront of our attention.
“We are striving for a clear and transparent future of parliament, bringing with it a new era of people-powered government so that the multi-layered effects of democracy can truly be felt.”
One of the party’s key policy focuses is whistleblower protection.
“Fusion has whistleblower policies to protect and secure those who are currently condemned and persecuted for blowing the lid on some of our atrocities being hidden,” Mr Marlow said.
They are also advocating for “new and inventive avenues” to create a more sustainable, suitable and evenly spread housing market.
Mr Marlow said the “blue collar people” of Australia have been “shoved aside and
forgotten, swept under the rug and left in the dust for far too long”.
“We are nothing without the voice of our voters, but without our voice, the Australian parliament simply won't hear
them.
“It’s time for Fusion to be a productive and innovative thorn in the side of the corporations that the preferred parties have now become.”
q Fusion Party candidate Geoff Marlow.
Nationals announce $20 billion future fund
By Dominic GIANNINI and Andrew BROWN, AAP
RURAL and regional Australians could share in billions of dollars to fill gaps in infrastructure, childcare and health services that local authorities can't afford.
The Nationals have pledged a regional Australian future fund worth $20 billion, if the coalition wins the 3 May election, with $1 billion to be set aside for projects each year.
The junior coalition partner has denied the money would be used for pork barrelling.
Nationals leader David Littleproud said the investment fund means regional areas won't have to squabble over general federal
government money.
"We're always fighting in regional Australia to get that last mile of infrastructure spend that doesn't fit in the normal pots of money," he said.
"This is just about making sure that we have that reliable amount of funding that's there year in, year out, and then we're not having to fight for it every year."
The regional fund would be set up with $5 billion in funding sourced from Labor's program for green energy and transmission line construction, which the coalition plans to scrap.
The remainder of the money would be gathered from budget windfalls from higher commodity prices - which often boosts government coffers - until it adds up to $20 billion.
The coalition has also pledged to set up a second fund, called the future generations fund, which would be used to pay down government debt.
Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor said mining and commodity windfalls would be turned into assets under
q David Littleproud is promising rural dwellers their own pot of money. Photo: Dominic Giannini/AAP
the funds.
"These funds will be about future generations of Australians and investments that are necessary for them to have the best possible life they can have," he told reporters in Sydney.
The opposition had previously pledged to scrap Labor's housing Australia future fund, as well with the
national reconstruction fund worth $10 billion and $15 billion, respectively.
Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said independent analysis would be used to determine how the money would be spent, rejecting claims it would be used to shore up support in seats held by the Nationals in parliament.
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"You don't have to go very far outside of our capital cities to see the degradation of our road network," she said.
"That means every single Australian ends up paying more for their food, more for their goods because of the impact on our freight supply chain."
The coalition also plans to legislate the funds so they
can't be easily scrapped by future governments.
The money would be distributed through a competitive grants process to not-for-profits for projects like expanding a childcare centre or boosting the number of regional Commonwealth-supported university placements.
The graphic elements on the following pages are examples only and are not to be used for reproduction purposes. Production quality logos can be received from The Residential Lift Company.
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Calls for hemp reform
A SENATE hopeful is calling for cannabis reform to unlock Australia’s “hemp potential” ahead of the 2025 Federal Election.
“Australia has the opportunity to become a
world leader in industrial hemp production, but outdated and inconsistent cannabis laws are holding the industry back,” said Senate candidate Miles Hunt of the Legalise Cannabis Party.
“Hemp is one of the most sustainable, versatile, and valuable crops on the planet.
“It has the potential to revolutionise Australian agriculture, create jobs, and drive economic growth
- yet our outdated laws and excessive red tape are strangling the industry before it can even take off,” said Mr Hunt, a lawyer and author based on the Mid North Coast.
Hemp, which contains little to no THC, remains heavily restricted due to Australia’s broader cannabis laws.
Farmers are required to navigate complex and inconsistent licensing
Now’s your chance to provide final feedback before the MyCoffs Plan is adopted by Council We recently asked the community to help prioritise the objectives for the draft MyCoffs 2035 Community Strategic Plan
Trumpet of Patriots contesting Cowper
GEOFFREY Shannon will contest the seat of Cowper for Trumpet of Patriots in the 3 May Federal Election.
A property developer and debt resolution specialist, Mr Shannon describes himself as “an advocate for people in financial distress”.
“I am the most qualified person on the ticket as to the cost-of-living crisis,” he told NOTA.
Mr Shannon, the founder of activist group Unhappy Banking, is well known for his years-long crusades against the major banks and their treatment of customers.
“My advocacy role in respect of banking issues since 2008 places me in a position unlike any other
candidate,” he said.
“Due to my role in exposing banks… I was also targeted with the view to have me discredited.”
In November 2023, after a lengthy legal battle, Mr Shannon was found not guilty of managing a corporation while disqualified.
Mr Shannon said the Trumpets of Patriots (ToP) would bring “commonsense policies” to parliament to help “everyday Australians”.
“I know Clive Palmer personally and I've witnessed the awesome deeds he has done for so many which he doesn't promote, nor does the media publish.
“The current major parties are completely out of
touch.
“It's a job for which they get handsomely rewarded for life after serving a period of a mere eight years in politics. “It's just a job for them, unlike someone like myself.”
For four years until August 2024, Mr Shannon provided full time care for his mother who was suffering with Alzheimer’s disease, an experience he says made him a “massive supporter for all those people that care for the elderly and also all our nurses, doctors, ambos as well as police”.
Crime prevention is high on his campaign priority list, after being a victim of a break and enter in 2022 which caused him spinal issues.
requirements across different states, while strict THC limits mean entire crops can be destroyed due to natural environmental fluctuations.
“Hemp farmers are pioneering a billion-dollar industry that could support regional communities, boost exports, and provide eco-friendly alternatives to plastic, paper, textiles, and even construction materials,” Hunt said,
“Our government should
support that.”
Mr Hunt said legalising cannabis would allow for a national approach to hemp regulation that will:
• Raise the legal THC threshold across all states and territories to align with international standards;
• Simplify and streamline licensing processes to make it easier for farmers to enter the industry;
• Educate banks and financial institutions to remove barriers to
investment in hemp businesses;
• Actively promote Australian-grown hemp for food, textiles, and industrial use to reduce reliance on imports;
• Invest in processing plants to make it easier for hemp products to get from the farm to the consumer;
• Ensure the Federal Government actively supports hemp as a “super crop with the capacity to change the world”.
q Geoffrey Shannon is the Trumpet of Patriots candidate for Cowper.
q Senate candidate Miles Hunt is the co-founder of the drug harm minimisation charity, Unharm.
ANZAC Day on the Coffs Coast
ANZAC Day at Woolgoolga will commence with a Dawn Service at the Diggers Club war memorial.
Attendees are asked to assemble from 5.00am on Friday, 25 April for a 5.30am start.
The march will assemble at the Woolgoolga Post Office from 10.30am.
An ANZAC-themed dance performance will be performed there by Corindi Public School pupils at 10:45am.
Stepping off at 11.00am, the march will proceed to Diggers for the Main Service from about 11.15am.
“Shelter and seating will be limited and mainly for
the elderly, so participants are advised to wear a hat and sunscreen and bring a small bottle of water and, if necessary, an umbrella or raincoat,” said Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch Honorary Secretary Christopher Chayko.
In Coffs Harbour, the Dawn Service commences at 5:30am at the memorial on Vernon Street.
A march through the streets of Coffs Harbour follows at 9:00am.
“If you have medals that
belong to a member of your family, wear them with pride on the right side of your jacket or blouse; you can march on the day with the veterans,” said C.ex Group President David Doyle OAM.
“The march will include veterans from the Korean War, Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation, Vietnam War, Gulf War, Afghanistan War, Timor Confrontation and Solomon Island Police Action.”
Groups holding ANZAC Day services across the Coffs Coast are invited to forward the details to media@ newsofthearea.com.au.
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q ANZAC Day will be commemorated in traditional fashion at Woolgoolga on 25 April.
Commemorative concert
TO mark 110 years since the Gallipoli landings and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a charity concert will be held at the Wiigulga Sports Complex, Woolgoolga from 2.00pm on Saturday 26 April.
The concert will feature the Clarence Valley Orchestra and Chorus, with guest artists.
All net proceeds will be distributed to local charities.
“The concert will be a great way to celebrate the music and song of those times, sing-along parts included (words provided),
and to continue your commemoration of the greatest Australians who sacrificed so much for us and our wonderful country,” said Christopher Chayko VR, Honorary Secretary, Woolgoolga RSL subBranch.
Tickets, ranging from $15 to $39.90, are available through Humanitix.
A 1940s fashion competition will also take place at the concert, with cash prizes for the most authentically dressed. Call Mr Chayko on 0432 127 071 for more information.
q A previous commemorative concert.
Nominations open for community awards
NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2025 Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Community Awards which will be presented during NAIDOC Week on 7 July.
The awards have been running since 1998 and commemorate Aunty Grace, who worked tirelessly for her community and was feted for her leadership and guidance.
“You don’t have to be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person to nominate someone for an award, but the person you nominate does,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“The awards are highly regarded and shine a light on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders in the Coffs Harbour region.”
Together with the Yandaarra Aboriginal Advisory Committee, the awards are presented by the City of Coffs Harbour.
Award categories include the Aunty Award, Uncle Award, Aboriginal Community Organisation or Business of the Year
Award, Sports Achievement Award, Arts and Cultural Achievement Award, Youth of the Year Award and the supreme Aunty Grace Roberts Memorial Community Development Award.
Each school in the Local Government Area is being challenged to nominate at least two students by the closing date of 9 May.
Having received Sports Achievement Awards in 2024, siblings Matthew Montgomery and Tigerlilly Green are encouraging others to apply this year.
Fourteen-year-old Matthew, who attends Woolgoolga High School, received his award for his progress in karate.
“I started the sport about three years ago and it helped to build my selfconfidence as I moved from primary to high school,” he said.
“Karate helps to strengthen your mind and I like sparring and kata –plus it’s also teaching me some Japanese.”
Training out of the Goju Kai Karatedo at Woolgoolga,
Matthew has reached a blue/brown-stripe belt and has enjoyed watching his sister Tigerlilly also flourish in the martial art.
“It’s helped with my fitness and it’s good for your mental health,” 11-year-old Tigerlilly said.
The Sandy Beach Public School student is also making waves in football, playing as a midfielder or goalie for the Woolgoolga Waves.
“Team sport helps me with my interactions with other people,” she said.
Both Matthew and Tigerlilly went to Kulai Preschool where they were taught by Leanne Roberts, a granddaughter of Aunty Grace Roberts.
To nominate someone for the awards, visit https://www.coffsharbour. nsw.gov.au/Your-Council/ About-our-city/YandaarraAunty-Grace-RobertsCommunity-Awards.
Printed nomination forms are also available at the City’s Customer Service desk, Level 1, Yarrila Place on Gordon Street.
q Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Community Awards 2024 recipients Matthew Montgomery and Tigerlilly Green.
Visitor guide out now
THE free 2025-26 Coffs Coast Visitor Guide is out now, providing a handy list of things to see, do and enjoy for visitors and local residents alike.
“The new and free Visitor Guide shines a light on everything from our magnificent beaches and waterways through to shopping, tourist attractions, accommodation, entertainment and foodie experiences,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
The 76-page guide is
brimming with stunning photographs from Red Rock to Sawtell, including the region’s lush hinterland.
The cover shot is a spectacular aerial image of Diggers Beach by local photographer Ryan Webber.
“This year’s book is bigger and better than last year’s as we’ve moved to an A4 format which will present favourably at distribution points, including our seven Visitor Information Outlets,”
City Acting General Manager Adnrew Beswick said.
“We have arranged for 50,000 printed copies of the Guide which will be distributed far and wide –and of course locally.”
The Guide is also available in digital formatyou can read and download it at https://isu.pub/ ayHXftb.
The hard copy 202526 Guide will be available locally at tourist attractions, major accommodation outlets and at all of the City’s visitor hubs.
q City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams and Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick with the new 2025-26 Coffs Coast Visitor Guide.
Content Summit returning to Coffs
By Andrea FERRARI
DELEGATES from around the world are expected in Coffs Harbour when the Australian Children’s Content Summit returns for a third year.
The expanded summit will now run across four days, from 25-28 August, at Pacific Bay Resort.
Founded and presented by Coffs Harbour-based SLR Productions, it is the only summit of its kind in Australia and offers opportunities for industry representatives to connect, create and collaborate.
For the past two years, the summit has boosted tourism on the Coffs Coast, with 260 delegates from 12 countries attending, including a distinguished lineup of industry leaders from ABC, NITV, BBC, BBC Studios, CBC, PBS Kids, Apple, Disney, Netflix, Sony, Paramount, Nine, Hello Sunshine, and more.
q Delegates and entertainers at the Australian Children’s Content Summit 2024 at Pacific Bay Resort.
“The summit offers a rare and focused opportunity for creators, producers, buyers, investors and industry leaders from around the
“The Australian Children’s Content Summit has quickly become one of the most relevant and exciting industry events on the calendar, which is why we’ve expanded to four days in 2025,” SLR Productions CEO Suzanne Ryan told News Of The Area.
world to come together to discuss ideas, forge partnerships and explore the future of children’s and family content.
“The quality of our speakers and sessions continues to set the bar high and delegates love the mix
of insightful discussions, meaningful networking and the stunning setting of the Coffs Coast.”
The Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF) is a principal partner in the event.
Its CEO Jenny Buckland
said the summit aligns with the ACTF’s vision to see quality Australian children’s screen content reaching and connecting with children on all platforms.
“The summit program is exploring everything from feature films to longform drama and animation to games, YouTube, and beyond,” she said.
Pipers and drummers in demand
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Coffs Coast
Pipes and Drums band is short a piper or three and experiencing a deficit of drummers.
The popular bagpipe and drum band has farewelled some young players who have left to pursue studies away from the Coffs Coast, while several older members have retired.
Keen to boost numbers, Pipe Major Geoff Rogers is on the hunt for pipers and tenor drummers.
“We are seeking individuals who have previous experience playing the pipes, whether it was during childhood, in a school band, or as a solo hobby,” he told News Of The Area.
“We’re also recruiting enthusiastic individuals interested in learning and playing the tenor drums.
“The best age to learn the tenor drums is 12 years and upwards and you don’t need to have a musical background as it works on four beats.
“As you progress, you learn to flourish the sticks and become the visual part of the band.”
Drums, sticks and kilts are supplied.
The band offers a vibrant
community of musicians whose repertoire includes both traditional and modern Scottish tunes, and popular favourites.
They are the featured entertainment at many of the region’s special events, including two Anzac Day parades, the Easter MacLean Highland Gathering, Bonnie Wingham weekend and the Grafton Jacaranda festival.
“If you have the skills and the desire to play again, we would love to have you join us.”
Band practice is at the Coffs Harbour Showground.
Geoff Rogers can be contacted for more information by calling 0416 233882 or emailing gnrogers54@gmail.com.
The summit will again be hosted by Emma Watkins, who is known for her ARIA award-winning musical children's show “Emma Memma”.
q Coffs Coast Pipes and Drums is seeking new members.
COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION Overbridge maintenance at Bucca Road, Nana Glen 17 May 2025 to 20
May 2025
UGL Regional Linx (UGLRL) operates and maintains the Country Regional Network (CRN) on behalf of Transport for NSW
UGLRL will commence scheduled maintenance work on the overbridge at Bucca Road, Nana Glen, in May 2025. Please refer to the map over the page.
WHAT WORK ARE WE DOING AND WHERE?
The work involves repairing bridge components to improve the structural integrity. This will ensure that the railway line remains safe, reliable, and operational for all road and rail traffic serving the community.
WHEN AND WHERE WILL WE BE WORKING?
We’ll carry out this important work at Bucca Road, Nana Glen, from Saturday, 17 May to Tuesday, 20 May 2025.
WHAT WILL THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
UGLRL is committed to minimising the impacts of our work activities on the local community. During the work, you will notice:
• full closure of the overbridge on 17 May and 18 May 2025, from 6am to 9pm. There will be no vehicle access during this time
• during the closure, there will be a 25km detour in place. The detour is shown on the map over the page
• Increased travel time. Please allow for extra travel time during the closure
• a partial lane closure will be in place from 19 May to 20 May 2025, between 6.30am and 5.30pm
• traffic control will be in place to direct users safely across the bridge
• pedestrian access is available upon request to the traffic control team
• there may be additional vehicle movements in the area
MANAGING OUR IMPACTS
UGLRL will take all necessary steps to minimise impacts on the community and the environment. This includes, but is not limited to:
• turning off machinery when not in use
• instructing workers to keep noise to a minimum
• servicing machinery to reduce noise and environmental impact
• informing the community on the overbridge closure
• access arrangements have been made for emergency services, property owners and local businesses during the work
MORE INFORMATION
Working closely with the local community is a priority for UGLRL. If you have any questions or are likely to be impacted by this work, please contact the Communications Team and provide the asset number: OBN51639A.
COMMUNITY CONTACT
Phone: 1300 661 390
Email: enquiry@uglregionallinx.com.au
SITE LOCATION
The yellow star indicates the work site location at Bucca Road, Nana Glen. During the bridge closure, a 25-km detour is available via Orara Way, Coramba Road, and E Bank Road.
CWA survey reveals top concerns
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Country Women's Association (CWA) of NSW has released the findings of its inaugural survey, which asked women about their greatest concerns, particularly in remote, rural and regional communities.
With 1670 responses to a range of questions from
the state of healthcare and telecommunications, to education opportunities and childcare options, the top concerns in the Annual Women’s Survey were health, women's personal safety and housing.
More than 60 percent of respondents cited limited access to primary and specialised healthcare
providers as of most concern, and almost 70 percent said that on the housing issue, high costs and a shortage of housing stock were the most worrying aspects.
“This was our first survey, and we weren’t sure what kind of response we’d receive, so to have that level of involvement from NSW
q The CWA of NSW state conference in Coffs Harbour last May saw delegates vote unanimously for urgent measures to address domestic and family violence.
women was really pleasing," said CWA of NSW President Joy Beames.
“As the biggest women’s advocacy group in the state, we developed this survey so we could get a real sense of what NSW women were concerned about and ensure our representations to policy makers reflected [those] issues.”
The North Coast CWA
Group covers a territory stretching from Iluka to Urunga and Dorrigo.
President Leonie Saunders told News Of The Area that, “80 percent of respondents came from rural and regional NSW and the majority were over the age of 45 years.”
“The survey highlights… health/healthcare, personal safety, housing,
Family First announces policies and candidates
By Ned COWIE
FAMILY FIRST leader
Lyle Shelton announced 100 new candidates and unveiled his policy platform for the upcoming Federal election at a meeting in Coffs Harbour last week.
The party is campaigning on four main platforms: lower prices for energy through opening of more coal and gas power stations; making housing cheaper by cutting red tape, releasing more land and slowing immigration; banning biological males from girls’ sports; and protecting the rights of parents in educational choices (i.e. the right of schools to choose staff who uphold their stated values).
Shelton, a former youth pastor and conservative lobbyist, met with around 50 supporters at Boambee East last Saturday evening and introduced four new candidates for the electorates of Paterson, Page, Newcastle and Cowper.
As previously reported in NOTA, Kempsey local and former pastor Peter Jackel will contest the seat of Cowper for the party in next month’s Federal election.
Established in 2021 by two former state Labor ministers, the fundamental goal of the Family First Party is to protect religious freedoms and to challenge what the party believes are radical anti-family attitudes in modern politics.
In 2022 the party announced that Shelton, a former Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) leader, had been appointed its National Director.
“We’ve been on the road a lot over the last couple of years to fan the flames of what I think is a very exciting political movement and it's so gratifying to get to this election and have 100 candidates (across the country) standing for the party,” Mr Shelton told NOTA.
He also revealed a series of advertisements the party has funded to be broadcast across media over the next few weeks.
Mr Shelton will stand as a candidate for the Senate on 3 May.
telecommunications, education and childcare.
“All our branches in the North Coast Group are always trying to find ways we can help in these areas at our own locations.”
Ms Saunders said that as CWA of NSW continues to advocate to the government at all levels, it hopes they will “take notice and respond accordingly”.
q CWA of NSW North Coast members at The Big Banana. Photo: Ed Martin.
q Family First senate candidate Lyle Shelton and Cowper candidate Peter Jackel at a party meeting in Boambee East last week.
Leap in identifying new frog species
By Andrea FERRARI
RESULTS from Australia’s biggest annual frog count, hosted by the Australian Museum last November, have helped inform the scientific description of at least eight new frog species.
FrogID coordinator Nadiah Roslan said, "FrogID acoustic data (audio recordings) were used alongside morphology and genetic data to describe these species as new to science."
an important role in helping scientists to understand how frogs and their ecosystems are responding to a changing planet.
With over 1.1 million scientific records of frogs gathered by people all over Australia, the citizen science event plays
Frog call submissions from the Coffs Coast numbered 16,317 in total: with 27 unique species recorded by 554 unique participants.
The FrogID project relies on frog calls to identify species, as many are indistinguishable by appearance.
From croaks and barks, to whistles and bleats, every frog species makes a unique sound
and anyone with a smartphone can participate, by recording frog calls through the free FrogID app.
The latest event gathered recordings of 225 frog species, that’s about 88 percent of Australia’s known frog species.
It has informed the conservation status of two species under the EPBC Act, with the Sphagnum Frog (Philoria sphagnicola) and the Davies Tree Frog (Litoria davieasae) now both listed as “Vulnerable”.
So far, two new species of tree frogs have been confirmed.
Colloquially known as the “dunny frog”, the tree frog was thought to be a single species (Litoria rubella).
Spanning 4.6 million square kilometres from the monsoon tropics to the desert, it had the largest distribution of any Australian frog.
“But researchers suspected that such a widespread species might actually be
Great Dunny Hunt now underway
By Andrea FERRARI
CONTINENCE Health
Australia is back on the hunt for Australia’s missing public toilets.
Timed for the start of World Continence Week, the Great Dunny Hunt started on Monday, 14 April, and runs until Sunday 11 May.
People are being urged to look for loos and record their location so that every available toilet is registered on the National Public Toilet Map.
The map currently lists more than 24,200 toilets, but Continence Health Australia believes there are many “secret” amenities tucked away in small towns, parks, libraries, service stations, and newly-built community spaces.
With thousands of Australians relying on easy toilet access, the public is encouraged to help fill in the gaps.
“There are commercial businesses like transport companies, service stations and convenience chains, and shopping centres that have public toilets, and many may be missing from our map,” said Continence Health Australia Chief Executive Jim Cooper.
“We’re calling on the public to share their local knowledge and help us uncover these
more than one,” said Australian Museum herpetologist, Dr Jodi Rowley.
“Using genetic data, body measurements, and mating call analysis, the team identified two new species; the western desert tree frog (Litoria larisonans) found in the Pilbara and central arid zones in WA, and the ruddy tree frog (Litoria pyrina), which lives in tropical coastal areas of Queensland and NSW.”
Australia has over 250 known species of frog, most are not found anywhere else in the world.
Some species are flourishing, like the Striped Marsh Frog, but others have declined dramatically since the 1980s, and at least four have become extinct.
Frogs play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
As environmental indicators, they provide early warnings about changes in environmental health.
q Looking for a lost
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE Coffs Coast Rally 2025 3 May 2025
City of Coffs Harbour herby advises that pursuant to Section 115 of the Roads Act, 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to allow the temporary road closure of:
• Sherwood Creek Road between Plum Pudding Road and Murphys Road, Conglomerate State Forest between 4pm to midnight
Telephone enquiries should be directed to City of Coffs Harbour on 6648 4000.
missing dunnies, making it easier for everyone to find a toilet when they need it.”
The National Public Toilet Map is an important resource for those living with incontinence.
A recent consumer survey found 49 percent of respondents don’t feel comfortable embarking on long trips without knowing where their first toilet stop will be.
Annually, there are over 3.2 million searches for public toilets on the National Public Toilet Map.
Dunny hunters can upload their submissions to continence.org.au/greatdunny-hunt and visit toiletmap.gov.au for more information.
Continence Health Australia is a not-forprofit organisation that provides information, support and resources for individuals, carers and health professionals.
It is the leading body promoting bladder and bowel control health, incontinence prevention, management, education, awareness, information and advocacy.
q A Litoria pyrina in the Herveys Range.
Photo: Jodi Rowley.
q A Littoria larisonans.
Photo: Dane Trembath.
q A Litoria rubella. Photo: Alan Greer.
loo.
Hop into an exciting new chapter this Easter
The Easter break provides the perfect opportunity to connect with family and discuss your next chapter with those who matter most.
Making the move to one of our 34 Oak Tree Retirement Villages in Australia can provide much needed certainty for you and your family. Our thoughtfully designed villas provide the perfect balance of style, comfort, and practicality. With features such as step-free floors and carefully planned bathrooms, our villas are designed to support your independence while ensuring lasting comfort and safety as your needs evolve.
At Oak Tree, we encourage you to bring family and friends along to your private tour of the village and speak with residents
6 Domain Drive, Coffs Harbour
to understand what the community is like. Within each boutique, securely gated village you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere and lower maintenance lifestyle that allows you more time to spend doing the things you love.
It’s important to us that you can relax in your retirement and enjoy the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard for. Come and go as you please or lock up and go on a trip with the peace of mind that your home will be secure and taken care of in your absence.
With each village offering social activities and built-in recreation and leisure facilities,
there’s no shortage of things to do or ways to unwind—whether with like-minded neighbours or visiting friends and family. Living in an Oak Tree Retirement Village will keep you social and connected in your retirement, but there’s never any pressure if you’d prefer to spend the day relaxing in your villa. Each village is also guided by a dedicated Village Manager—a friendly, familiar face who oversees the day-to-day running of the community.
Ready to hop into an exciting new chapter? Call Village Manager Michelle on 0498 768 948 today.
Hands on with Get Grubby
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Get Grubby Program, created to encourage children’s active participation in sustainability learning and fun, came to the Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Valley and Bellingen areas through March.
It brought interactive and educational events to almost 1000 preschoolers and Kindergarten to Year 2 students, from 22 different schools.
Featuring human “Scrapboy” from “Dirtgirlworld” and Get Grubby TV, these hands-on sessions included singing, dancing, seed planting, and the chance to meet and name their own earthworm.
Each session saw Scrapboy engage the audience with his playful songs and activities, sharing important information about recycling, worm farming, composting and living
sustainably.
Ten schools received their own compost bins, thanks to the support of Midwaste, to help students turn their sustainability learning into real-world action.
OzGREEN partnered with Coffs Coast Waste Services, City of Coffs Harbour Council, Bellingen Shire Council and Nambucca Valley Council to deliver the program on the Coffs Coast.
Kathleen Hannah, Event Manager OzGREEN said, “Scrapboy’s energy and enthusiasm made sustainability come to life for these young students.
“His engaging approach, through music, storytelling, and hands-on activities, captivated kids and sparked a real excitement for taking care of the planet.”
Jules Laurent from Coffs Coast Waste Services said, “it was a fun opportunity to meet and engage with Scrapboy in person while
Mental Health Commissioner visits Coffs
By Andrea FERRARI
HEADSPACE Coffs Harbour
hosted the Mental Health Commissioner of NSW Jennifer Black, and Deputy Commissioner Ian Heffernan, on Wednesday 2 April at their centre in Little Street.
Headspace is a free and confidential service for young people aged 12 - 25 years who have mild to moderate
mental health issues.
Coffs Centre Manager Suzanne O’Donnell said that youth mental health and wellbeing is a major issue across Australia - particularly in regions such as the Coffs Coast.
“This visit… was a fantastic opportunity to raise local issues and areas for future focus so we can help inform future strategies,” Ms
q Singing and dancing with Scrapboy at the Coffs Harbour event.
learning about recycling, composting, appreciating nature, worms, seedlings and having fun.
“These free events were also the perfect way to kickstart environmental awareness in young people, making sustainability fun,
O’Donnell said.
Headspace Coffs Harbour supports over 350 young people per month, and has a team that can provide psychology, mental health occupational therapy, dietetics, counselling and peer support.”
All services are funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care.
The Coffs Harbour team currently has the capacity for new referrals.
For more information call 02 6652 1878, drop into the centre on Little Street, Coffs Harbour, or visit the website at headspace.org. au/headspace-centres/coffsharbour.
q Community Engagement team member Geordy Pearce, Mental Health Commissioner for NSW Jennifer Black, Deputy Mental Health Commissioner Tim Heffernan, headspace Centre Manager Suzanne O'Donnell, headspace Clinical Lead Emily Fraser, and headspace Clinical Educator Dr Basia Radlinska.
hands-on, and accessible, while fostering friendships and collaboration for those joining the program for the first time.”
OzGREEN’s Event Coordinator Lily Kostka said that being part of the Get Grubby Program gave her
q Students at the
hope for the future.
“Seeing kids light up as they learned about sustainability - whether through song, composting, or naming their own wormwas so rewarding.
“It’s amazing to watch young people from all backgrounds connect with the environment with such playfulness, excitement, and curiosity."
For more details about the program, visit getgrubbyprogram.com/ families-program-details.
A Coffs beer for a good cause
By Andrea FERRARI
TRIPLE M Coffs Harbour’s breakfast show host Michael “Moffee” Moffett, has brewed an idea to raise funds for the Defib Hero program supported by the Pink Silks Trust.
It started with him wanting to create a beer for the region.
Owner of King Tide Brewery, Josh King, offered to bring his idea to life and started crafting a Pale Ale using Australian ingredients.
“We got some great Australian malt from the Riverina and some good Aussie hops from the Aussie Hops fields”, Mr King said.
“Triple M listeners shared their feedback on everything from the name to the style and taste of the beer, right down to the design on the can to make it very ‘Coffs Coast’,” Moffee told News Of The Area.
Pink Silks Trust will benefit from sales, with the funds to be used to buy more defibrillators for Coffs Harbour as part of the Defib Hero program.
“Pink Silks Trust last year raised enough for five new defibs,” said founder Tanya
“I think that is an initiative that we really need to get behind.
“Having 24/7 access to a defib [at locations] three minutes apart, is definitely going to save lives.
“Bringing better health outcomes to our community… that’s the real unspoken gift. Moffee’s “Coffs Easy Ale” was officially launched to the public on Friday, 11 April, at King Tide Brewing.
Johnson OAM.
Get Grubby Coffs Harbour event, naming their own pet worm.
q Triple M’s breakfast show host Michael ‘Moffee’ Moffett and King Tide Brewing owner Josh King.
Celebrating regional women
By Andrea FERRARI
WOMEN from many different cultures finally came together for International Women’s Day after exTropical Cyclone Alfred delayed celebrations.
Hosted in Coffs Harbour by Settlement Services International (SSI), the “Moving Forward Towards Change” event brought together regional women and girls from refugee and migrant backgrounds, First Nations women, local leaders, and service providers.
“We chose this theme because, too often, themes around empowerment focus
on women in the workplace,” SSI’s Dr Astrid Perry OAM said.
“[They] fail to highlight women’s contribution and leadership in their own and the broader community, within regional areas.
“We teamed up with Mosaic Multicultural Connections to host special events celebrating the diversity of regional women in Tamworth and Armidale,
as well as Coffs Harbour, during NSW Women’s Week.”
The local event was held at Jetty Beach House and featured live entertainment, a community lunch, and inspiring table conversations.
“It was amazing to hear the experiences of women living in regional communities.”
The gathering highlighted the critical need for enhanced support services for women
from diverse backgrounds..
The keynote speaker was Keli McDonald from the National Rural Women’s Coalition while a recorded video message from NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison was played.
Participants represented communities from the Yezidi (Syria and Iraq), Myanmar,
Ethiopia, Eritrea, France, Indonesia, Chile, El Salvador, Germany, Philippines, Africa and Malaysia.
“This International Women’s Day, we recognise that women’s experiences are shaped by multiple intersecting factors,” Dr Perry said.
SSI recently launched its second national Gender Equity Strategy 2024-2027, seeking to ensure women receive the support needed to thrive, rebuild, and contribute meaningfully to their new communities.
The event was funded by the NSW Government.
Ron and Robin celebrate 69 years
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS Coast
Legacy residents
Ron and Robin Tracey celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary on Monday 14 April.
Robin said the secret to their long-lasting relationship is to “always follow your heart, never sweat the small stuff and always make up before the day is done.”
Ron’s advice for a long happy marriage is to “ride the waves and if all else fails always agree with your wife.”
Robin Hughes was 13 and Ron Tracey was 15 when they first met in 1948 while attending the same school in Randwick, Sydney.
Ron fell in love with Robin the moment he laid
eyes on her while Robin couldn't understand why he was so keen.
Riding the school bus together, the pair would discreetly hold hands, which they covered with Robin's school hat.
They became inseparable and married on 14 April 1956 when Robin was 20 and Ron was 22.
Ron was an accountant who worked for many years
in club management.
Robin was a champion swimmer, backstroke being her best stroke, but she gave it up when she met Ron.
They lived most of their married lives in Sydney, then on the NSW Central Coast, before moving to the Coffs Harbour area around five years ago to be closer to their daughter Donna and their three grandchildren.
When they retired, Ron often took his boat out fishing with friends, while Robin would cook the feast when they returned home at the end of the day.
When Ron was just 62, he suffered a stroke that left him partially paralysed
on the right side and with limited speech.
Robin cared for him for another 30 years, during which the couple travelled the world on ocean and river cruises that accommodated his condition.
Time and age eventually forced them to move into Legacy on Victoria residential aged care, where a cosy anniversary party took place with Donna and other family and friends.
q Participants take part in a Syrian dance.
q Local Elder Aunty Jenny (centre) with SSI’s Dr Astrid Perry (left) and Vigeeta Chauhan (right).
q The Singlish Choir performs at the IWD event.
q The ‘Moving Forward Towards Change’ event in Coffs Harbour.
q Ron and Robin Tracey celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary on 14 April.
q Ron Tracey wed Robin Hughes on 14 April 1956.
TAS team triumphs at Ocean Swims
By Andrea FERRARI
FOR the third consecutive year, The Armidale School’s (TAS) Isabella Henderson was her team’s highest-placed competitor in the Coffs Coast Ocean Swims.
She was among the more than 140 swimmers from TAS who once again made up almost half of the 341 finishers in the two-kilometre men’s and women’s races on 6 April.
With a “pleasing” time
of 32:52, Isabella credits a calm sea and mild water temperatures for her win.
While her training was limited due to rowing commitments at national championships in Tasmania, Isabella was the eighth female out of the water from the 177 overall finishers in the women’s race.
"This was my third time doing the swim and it felt just as special as ever,” she said.
“I wasn’t focused on a specific time, especially with the limited swimming training due to my rowing commitments. Given that, I was happy with how I swam.
“The conditions were amazing, with calm waters and a perfect blue sky that seemed to match our blue caps perfectly.
“It was also a time to
Trauma Teddies in demand
By Andrea FERRARI
AUSTRALIAN Red Cross
“Trauma Teddy” coordinators from Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Nambucca Valley answered the call for love, kindness and cuddles after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred wreaked havoc in communities to the north.
“In times of disaster, in times of need, our teddies provide just that,” said Woolgoolga Emergency Services Team Leader and Zone Representative, Judy Jackson.
“One hundred and ten Trauma Teddies were sent off to find new homes across the Northern Rivers and Tweed Valley, transported by a teddy taxi driver.
“Our Red Cross teddies provide care in so many ways,” Ms Jackson said.
“Over one million children have cuddled a colourful, comforting ‘Trauma Teddy’ since volunteers first started hand-knitting them back in 1990.”
At last count, there were more than 600 volunteers and groups hand knitting the teddies in Australia, crafting around 50,000 a year.
“That’s a huge number of children and people who each year receive the care of a teddy bear in times of need."
Deputy Team Leader from Nambucca Valley Emergency Services Helen Mower, took on the muchvalued role of Trauma Teddy taxi driver.
“When my call went out for anyone travelling north, Helen kindly offered to divert her course to Brisbane to collect our family of Teddies,” said a thankful Judy.
“We came together with a few calls to organise collection points and assist in providing our northern volunteers who were running out of stock after most areas had experienced a week in evacuation centres.
“Teddy relocations are still taking place, facilitated by NSW Reconstruction Authority Recovery Assistance Centres.”
Red Cross Emergency Services volunteers stand on-call to provide cyclone and flood affected residents psychological first aid, which helps during and in the aftermath of an emergency, disaster, or traumatic event.
Anyone interested in becoming a Trauma Teddy knitter can visit the Australian Red Cross at redcross.org.au/teddy or email woopiredcross@gmail. com.
reflect and support the message of the Blue Tree Project which the school supports - spreading the message that ‘it’s ok not to be ok’.”
Second out of the water for TAS with a time of 34:16 was one of the youngest swimmers, 12-year-old Noah Keshk, who said local experience was a great help.
“I’m from Coffs Harbour and did Nippers with Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club, so I’m used to swimming in the open water.
“I spent most of my race swimming beside my mate Clay Nixon, which helped me keep a good pace.
“The conditions of the water were great, warm, clear and flat, which made for easier swimming with blue skies above.
“It was great to be part of the TAS community, all doing something challenging for the Blue Tree Foundation.
“Everyone was in high spirits, and it was a good day overall.”
Also swimming with the team was TAS Old Boy Jock Rutherford, who was one of the first two TAS students to compete in the event, along with teacher Jim Pennington, in 2003.
Supporting swimmers on rescue boards were a dozen Year 12 students who were the latest to gain their Surf Bronze Medallions, as part of a decades-long program Sawtell Surf Life Saving Club.
The Coffs Coast Ocean Swims coincide with TAS’s Blue Week, during which there are various school activities aimed at supporting mental health and awareness.
q The Armidale School contingent at the Coffs Coast Ocean Swims.
q The TAS team heading into the water.
q Nambucca Valley Emergency Services Deputy Team Leader Helen Mower delivering teddies to NSW Red Cross Zone Representative Kerrie Gray.
q A young boy in the Tweed Heads Recovery Centre is comforted by a Trauma Teddy knitted by a Nambucca Valley volunteer.
q Bella Henderson, the first TAS student out of the water, with TAS Old Boy Jock Rutherford - the first TAS student to swim in the event in 2003.
By Manny WOOD
Dispute regarding right to reside in home
FRANK and Betty have been in a de facto relationship for 20 years.
Frank has three children as a result of a previous relationship.
Frank seeks legal advice regarding his estate planning and in particular, how he can make a Will that “looks after” Betty, while preserving his estate for his three children.
The solicitor advises Frank that he can make a Will which grants Betty the right to reside in his home and the right to relocate to alternate accommodation, if appropriate, under the authority of his executor.
When Betty passes-away, Frank's estate can then be distributed to his children.
Frank decides that his solicitor’s advice should be followed, as it properly caters for Betty and his children.
He decides that the rest of his estate should go to his children and makes arrangements for his superannuation to be paid to Betty when he passes-away.
When Frank dies several years later, he owns two houses, a large investment portfolio and a substantial superannuation fund.
When Betty discovers the contents of Frank’s Will, she is disappointed, believing that she should receive the home in which they reside “outright”, to do with as she pleases.
She commences action against Frank’s estate.
During the course of a three-day hearing, Betty states that Frank had promised her that she would receive the home outright.
During a lengthy crossexamination, Betty is questioned about the “promise”.
The Court expresses some concerns regarding Betty’s credibility but does not consider her conduct to detract from her case.
The Court acknowledges that in the circumstances, Frank had a duty to Betty to provide her with the “security of a home” and a fund to live in a “style to which she was accustomed”.
However, the Court also acknowledges that Frank’s Will should not be disturbed unnecessarily and that Frank also had a moral obligation to his children.
In dismissing Betty’s claim, the Court ultimately decides to give weight to Frank’s “judgment as manifested in his Will”, stating that he was in a “better position” to determine his obligations to Betty and his children than the Court.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
Why we march on Anzac Day
By David DOYLE OAM, C.ex Group President
ON this Anzac Day it will be 110 years since Colonel J. W. McCay led Australian troops on to those fatal shores of Turkey.
Those beaches and coastline on the Gallipoli peninsula would see 8,700 young Australians die in battle with a further 19,000 wounded.
Our New Zealand counterpart lost 2,431 (killed in action) and 5,140 wounded.
Allied forces which included English, French, Indian and Ghurkha troops suffered 44,000 killed and 97,000 wounded.
This was also the beginning of the War, and it was only eight months old.
How many troops would we lose in the years to follow (1914 to 1918).
Young Australian soldiers, some so young that they had not yet had their first shave.
It was later proven that some of these young men had not even reached the age of 18, yet they had accepted the challenge to go to battle for their country and if need be, to fight to the last and that they did.
They paid the supreme sacrifice so that you and I could live in a free society with freedom of speech, the freedom of religion and the freedom of choice.
After leaving the shores of Gallipoli on 20 December 1915, they returned to Egypt to collect their horses.
The Light Horse brigade stayed on while the rest set sail for England and prepared for the Western Front.
Our Light Horse, which consisted of seven Light Horse Brigades, got back in the saddle (so to speak) as they had left the horses back in Egypt during the
Gallipoli Campaign.
It was not long until they ran up battle honours for themselves as they forced the Turks and Arabs back into Syria and Turkey in what was the Charge of Beersheba.
It was in fact the last charge ever on horseback by an Imperial Army during any World War. Our 15th Light Horse from Grafton has been with us for almost 30 years.
After acclimatisation had been completed in England our troops ended up on the Somme near the village of Villers–Bretonneux, where still to this day the school that our troops adopted back in 1916 love to see Australians come there and help celebrate the signing of the peace treaty every year.
Australia along with our allies suffered horrific losses; 615,000 troops were killed in action, what a waste of young men.
Some of the battles that the ANZACs were involved in were Pozieres, Bapaume, La Boisselle, Becourt, Bullecourt, Bouzincourt, Albert and Menin Road, to name a few.
It is so good to see young Australians going back to Gallipoli and to the Western Front just to see where our early history lies and of the great deeds of bravery, mateship, comradery and loyalty that our troops had for one another and as a fighting force that was second to none.
This tradition was carried forward to all our conflicts that Australians have partaken in the last 110 years.
This ANZAC Day, on the anniversary of 110yrs of ANZAC, remember those brave Aussies because they may have been a relative of yours, a great great grandad, uncle, aunt, father or cousin.
It is a time to remember all those members of the Armed Services who have given their lives in any of the conflicts that Australians have engaged in during the last century, plus 10 years.
DEAR Jasminda,
WHENEVER I go to the supermarket for a couple of items, I end up leaving with a trolley full. How can I avoid the temptation and stick to my budget?
Gloria V.
Dear Gloria,
IT'S easy to feel defeated when you go into the supermarket for eggs and milk and return with two punnets of strawberries, goats cheese, a leg of lamb, Weetbix, dishwasher tablets, antibacterial spray, turkey mince, salmon fillets, protein balls, and, if you are at ALDI, a mattress in a box, a home gym, a duck feather quilt, a snuggle hoodie and a dozen pale ales.
There are, however, a few ways you can stick to your budget.
The first is to have a list.
Taking a handwritten list, or typing one on your phone that you can cross off, will avoid impulse buys and keep you on track.
Only purchase the items on your list and don't be tempted by the confectionary aisle.
If you don't walk down it, you'll be less likely to throw a family-size chocolate bar in the trolley.
Another option is to bring a small recyclable bag with you or, if you are only grabbing milk and bread, take no bag at all.
The difficulty in juggling multiple items should dissuade you from adding extras to your trolley.
For the same reason, selecting a basket instead of a trolley will reduce the number of items you can carry to whatever weight you can manage with two arms.
Another option is to take advantage of supermarket click and collect services. If you pre-order, you will be less likely to purchase items you don't need, and you'll also be able to stick to your original budget as you'll be paying at the time of purchase instead of when you are surrounded by temptation, flashing lights, sales tickets and looping 80s music that can lull you into a purchasing frenzy.
I challenge anyone to not throw a pack of Lolly Gobble Bliss Bombs and some Kirk's Pasito into their trolley when Wham's Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go is playing in the background.
I hope these suggestions help, Gloria. Marketing experts are pretty savvy, and it's easy to be swayed by their customer loyalty promos and two-for-one deals.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
The times they are a-changin’
DEAR News Of The Area,
AS the debate of who funds independent candidates hots up it was interesting to read Janet Olney (NOTA 21 March) asking “who is funding independent Caz Heise’s campaign?”.
Ms Olney argues that no independent would be able to afford this kind of campaign.
Well Janet you are correct.
Very few independent candidates could afford to run a campaign like this on their own.
However a community that supports them most certainly can.
“Voices for Cowper” and other community-run organisations are all prepared to contribute their own hardearned money to an independent
candidate because they are fed up with politicians from the two major parties looking after their own parties interests before that of their communities.
Oh yes… the times, they are a-changin’.
Apologies to Bob Dylan. Regards, Bob HARRIS, Sawtell.
From the Mayor’s desk
By Mayor Nikki WILLIAMS City of Coffs Harbour
THERE’S a lot happening across our region, and I’m pleased to share a few
highlights with you.
First up, the 2025–26 Coffs Coast Visitor Guide is out now!
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s full of great ideas for places to explore, from stunning beaches and hidden foodie gems to family-friendly attractions.
We’ve printed 50,000 copies which are available across the City’s Visitor Information Outlets and beyond - so grab a copy and discover something new right here at home.
For families, this autumn’s school holiday program is packed with creative and low-cost activities.
From Woolgoolga to Toormina, our libraries and Yarrila Arts and Museum
(YAM) are buzzing with fun.
Art lovers take note, entries are open for STILL: National Still Life Award 2025, held at YAM.
With $30,000 up for grabs, and a new $5,000 local artist award, this is an exciting opportunity to showcase creative talent.
Also currently on public exhibition is the draft MyCoffs Community Strategic Plan 2035.
This sets out our shared long-term aspirations, with input from all levels of government, business and the community.
Nominations are open for the 2025 Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Community Awards, recognising
leadership in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
These awards are a cherished part of NAIDOC Week and I encourage you to nominate a local leader who inspires you.
I’ve also kicked off my Mayor Mobile Offices, starting with a fantastic visit to Coramba.
Woopi and Toormina are next on the list, so stay tuned.
Wishing you all a safe and happy Easter break.
Please take care on the roads and enjoy the time with family and friends.
A hung parliament is the ‘worst option’
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE international financial and security environment is the most dangerous it has been since World War II.
Among other challenges, the next Federal Government will have to deal with two major bullies – Donald Trump and the Chinese Communist Party.
For the first time since WWII, we are facing the threat of big power armed conflict in our part of the world, while at
the same time, Australia is in danger of being crippled by a possible world- wide trade war.
The reality is that the next Australian Government will have to make complex decisions quickly and speak with confidence and unity.
These challenges will be difficult enough for a united government with a parliamentary majority.
It will be impossible for the next government to act firmly and quickly if
Australia has a hung parliament, where a group of minor parties and independents, many with no international experience or interest, have to quickly agree on a difficult course of action.
Unfortunately there is little serious discussion about improving both our national defence and our weak budget position in the current election campaign.
If either of these go badly for us, there’ll be no money for all the goodies that most of the candidates are talking
about.
We can’t have Government paralysis over the next three years.
So for the long term security of our country in these volatile times, I suggest that you vote for either the Coalition or Labor.
The country simply can’t afford a hung parliament.
Regards, Paul MCKEON, Coffs Harbour.
The difference between being independent and self-funded
THIS is my response to last week’s letter: “Where is the integrity and transparency?”
Oh Bruce, where to start?
Your opening paragraph actually opens the answer to its own question: “How can Caz Heise be independent when she received so much funding from Climate 200?”
Well, it seems you have confused being an ‘independent’ candidate as contingent on being self-funded.
Don’t be delusional.
If that was the case then only the rich could ever run for parliament (aka Clive Palmer).
The reality is that an independent candidate is simply a candidate that does
not belong to a political party.
Caz is independent from any political party.
That really should be the end of the story.
But I suspect that explanation is not enough for some.
So please understand that being an independent really means that the candidate is not beholden to any party line.
They are not huddled into caucus to be told how they must vote, or sent a message on their personal electronic device outside of the chamber to tell them which way they must vote when they step inside (yes, this actually happens).
“But she’s a Teal!”
Well Bruce, there’s no such thing as the Teal Party.
It’s a nickname given to like-minded independent candidates supported by Climate 200 and thousands of others.
“But Simon Holmes à Court and his Climate 200 mob must be demanding something of them!”
No, there is no actual demand.
If you doubt this, then I invite you to come up with any evidence whatsoever.
What… you can’t find any? That’s because there isn’t any.
As for questioning her integrity… have you ever met Ms Heise?
I have several times, and my assessment is that her integrity is beyond reproach.
I am sure that she would welcome any enquiry from you.
Transparency? It’s all there. All of her policies are available to view.
Her professional history is all documented.
Her support through Climate 200 and many more of us is out there for all to see.
Where’s the lack of transparency?
Did you attend any of the Kitchen Table conversations that were held across all electorates where the need was identified? No? Well, I and thousands of others did.
The outcome was that so many of us want change.
Have you attended any of the candidate forums? No? Well, I and thousands of others have.
This is how you can get informed.
How about rather than throwing out opinions based on inference and bias, you actually make some genuine enquiries first.
Go on, give Caz a call.
Regards, David HARGREAVES, Bonville.
The reality of solar panel recycling
DEAR News Of The Area,
HONESTLY, sometimes you just have to say something.
Mr Duesbury's letter (11 April edition) is full of disingenuous nonsense.
He claims that most used solar panels and batteries end up in landfill.
They do not.
Most used solar panels and batteries are recycled, up to 98 percent.
I personally have taken used solar panels and batteries to Sell & Parker in Coffs Harbour (recyclers) and they have paid me for them.
Are they going to pay me so they can
put them in landfill?
Also, a properly calibrated solar panel and battery system geared to an individual household's needs pays for itself, on average, in seven to eight years.
Given that, and the fact you are using clean energy, and the ability to recycle your old system, it is indeed good for the
environment, contrary to Mr Duesbury's intimation.
By all means stick with your diesel Mr Duesbury, and while you’re at it stick with the truth.
Regards, Don ORR, Urunga.
Mayor’s appearances in campaign ads Politics vs platitudes
DEAR News Of The Area,
I THOUGHT our new mayor Nikki Williams stood for council as an independent.
How is it she is constantly being seen in paid and unpaid advertising standing alongside the current Nationals Federal candidate in the upcoming elections?
As often as not she has an arm around him, suggesting more of an endorsement than a mayor simply cultivating a working
relationship with a local member.
She should not be in any sort of advertising of this nature especially in the middle of an election campaign.
These are not the actions of an independent and I believe we have been cruelly misled.
Regards, Adrienne FARAGO, Sawtell.
DEAR
GIVEN that the electorate casts their votes based on the proposed and current policies of the major parties, many minor contenders submit their appeals to the electorate based on platitudes.
As the upcoming election is a Federal election, is it not feasible that the electorate be advised as to what position contenders have in relation to such issues of national importance as immigration, defence, industrial relations, cost-of-living, taxation, national security,
welfare and energy?
As stated, this is a Federal election and not one restricted to local issues.
On a local level we are being inundated with constant platitudes from the local independent candidate.
If successfully elected, where does Caz Heise stand on the aforementioned issues of national importance?
MANY have sought and obtained the Sawtell lifestyle by purchasing in this exclusive but friendly village.
Enjoy a leisurely walk to Sawtell Beach and a surf in the foamy waves or a stroll to the tree-lined village
shopping centre for a coffee and a breakfast with friends. Even the temperature in Sawtell is usually more moderate on the hot days. Most of the older part of Sawtell is close to the surf club, shop and clubs and is level and easy walking. Just three streets from the shopping centre and beach, this home at 19 Eleventh Avenue is on the way to Sawtell Public School, which is at the end of the street.
An old-style, original Sawtell home with lots of character, the property features three bedrooms, air conditioner, solar hot water, separate dining, separate lounge, shower room, underneath storage, workshop and BBQ area. There is accommodation for three cars and side vehicle access. Contact Chris on 042758 1100 or 02 6658 1100 or email info@ toorminarealestate.com.au.
PROPERTYWEEK
Amazing acreage
Address: 7 McAlpine Way, Boambee
Price: $1,575,000
Land size: 6,756sqm
Beds: 4, Bath: 2, Car: 2
WELCOME to a rare opportunity at 7 McAlpine Way, Boambee - a stunning, fully renovated home set on an expansive 6000-plus square metre lot, which translates to an impressive acre and a half of pure potential.
From the moment you drive up the picturesque driveway to this high-set property, you'll sense that you are about to experience something truly exceptional.
Step inside through the oversized feature front door and enter a world of elegant
living.
The spacious formal living area greets you with abundant natural light, creating an inviting ambiance that is perfect for both relaxation and entertainment.
Your journey continues into the main bedroom, a
personal retreat featuring a stylish ensuite and a generous walk-in robe for all your storage needs.
From the entry living area there is a seamless flow to the heart of the home - the brand new kitchen.
Equipped with modern
closing drawers, this kitchen is a chef's delight.
Adjacent to the kitchen, a thoughtful hallway leads to three additional generously sized bedrooms, two with large built-in robes, along with a renovated bathroom with shower cubicle and bath
internal laundry. For more informal gatherings, the living area off the kitchen is perfect for family time or casual dining.
This space opens directly to a large family room that overlooks a sparkling inground pool, providing a
Step outside to discover a spacious, covered outdoor entertaining area, where you can host family barbecues or unwind while enjoying views of the parklike lawn and pool.
Adding to the charm of this property, you'll find a double garage along with a turning bay or additional parking area at the top of the driveway for your convenience.
Boambee is renowned as one of the premium rural residential areas of the Coffs Coast, offering a tranquil lifestyle just minutes away from the golden sands of Sawtell Beach.
Don't miss your chance to own a slice of paradise.
Agents: Chris Hines (0439 667 719) and Kim McGinty (0432 953 796).
Central Sawtell – Renovate or detonate!! 31 Circular Ave, Sawtell & New Listing
feature with the single garage having additional storage. Just a great location in central Sawtell to build your dream home or a project home to renovate. Total land size 534m2.
LOCALSPORT
Coffs Harbour gets a marathon
By Andrea FERRARI
FOR the first time, a marathon of 42kms will feature in an organised running festival in Coffs Harbour.
The distance event has been introduced to the C.ex Group Coffs Harbour Running Festival 2025.
A new course has also been set for the Half Marathon.
Taking place on Sunday 14 September, the community and charity event is organised by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour and includes 10km, 5km and 3km distances plus a team challenge.
Around 2000 runners are expected to sign up.
The marathon course will take runners from
Coffs Harbour Showground out to the North and South walls of the Jetty Foreshore, then to the end of the historic jetty and back.
They will then return to Coffs Harbour Showground and finish with two 10km laps of the Coffs Creek Walkway and Botanic Gardens.
The new half marathon course is a one-lap event from the "bush to the beach and back again", Event Director Keelan Birch said.
"Half marathon and marathon events are selling out across Australia, and we are excited to attract keen runners from Sydney, Brisbane and locally to challenge themselves on our even more scenic course.
"Showcasing the Jetty Foreshores and the Coffs Creek Walkway will make for an amazing run and significantly expand the event.
"Course cut-off for the new marathon is 5hrs 30mins, which is designed
to make it achievable for all paces."
Orlando Street bridge will be closed to traffic for the event between 6:00am-8:30am on the day,
Coffs junior netball season begins
HUNDREDS of Coffs Harbour netballers have an extra pep in their step, with funding from Greater Bank set to subsidise registration fees.
Following a strong 2024, which saw Coffs Harbour’s 17-years Division 3 team take first place at the Netball NSW Senior State Titles, the association is keen to bring more participants into the game.
Coffs Harbour Netball Association (CHNA) is set to use the sponsorship to upgrade facilities, purchase new equipment and offer training equipment for players and coaches.
“We had a really great season last year with some
exciting firsts for CHNA,” Secretary Daniela Blagus said.
“We took our first Under 14’s boys team and first Open Men’s teams to the Netball NSW State Titles.”
Greater Bank Coffs Harbour Branch Manager Faith Woods said netball brings a display of community spirit to the cooler months.
“We are really proud to support the local netball associations that bring our community together for good.
“It’s great to see people come together to cheer along their family and friends from the sidelines.
“It’s going to be another brilliant season, and we hope everyone has a fun year.”
with professional traffic management in place.
Anytime Fitness is the new naming sponsor for the inaugural marathon.
“It's fantastic that
the event supports local charities and showcases the beauty of the area, while promoting healthy lifestyles with a huge dose of fun,” said Regional
19
at coffsrunfestival.com.
Manager Caren Shaw. Entries open online on Saturday
April
q Coffs Harbour Running Festival 2025 showcases the region's bush and beach.
q Coffs Running Festival 2025 will take in the North and South walls.
q The jetty will feature in Coffs Harbour’s first ever marathon.
q The Coffs netball season is now underway.
Coffs cricket’s award winners
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour District
Cricket Association’s best players have been recognised, with the award winners announced for the 2024/25 Sixers Cricket League season.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club
Rebels won the Arch and Isobel Kay Memorial Trophy for the Club Championship.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Tyh Murphy and Nana Glen Lizards player Daniel Craig won the Bill Rae Memorial Medal, as the best first grade player.
Daniel Craig won the Ray Kratz Memorial Medal as the best Under 21 Colt cricketer.
Nana Glen Lizards player Zane Guthrie won the Ken Robinson Trophy as the best Under 16 senior cricketer.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels captain Taj Dosanjh won the first-grade captains award.
Daniel Craig had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 381 runs at an average of 76.2.
Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club’s Taylor Gilbert had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 20 wickets at an average of 9.7.
Tony Slaviero of the Coffs Colts Cricket Club had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 14.
Tyh Murphy had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper, taking nine.
Taylor Gilbert was the
best all-rounder.
Second grade
Diggers Cricket Club player Nick Bennie scored the most runs with 313.
Brendon Myers of Nana Glen Cricket Club had the highest batting average at 46.67.
Nana Glen’s Ben Watson had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 37 wickets at an average of 8.11.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels player Raphael Wirth and Diggers player Kieran Cunningham both had the most dismissals of any wicket keepers, with nine each.
Cody Britnell of the Coffs Colts had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper taking 10.
Ben Watson was the best all-rounder.
Third grade
Ben Oliver of Diggers Cricket Club scored the most runs with 294.
Coffs Colts player Paul Tomlinson had the highest batting average at 42.33.
Matthew Bryant of Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 21 wickets at an average of 6.33.
Diggers player Jacka Britton had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 12.
Michael Nealand and Ben Oliver of Diggers both had seven catches each as nonwicket keepers.
Nana Glen’s Matthew
Benfield was the best allrounder.
Fourth grade
Kamaljeet Singh of Diggers Cricket Club scored the most runs with 270.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels player Malcolm Bird had the highest batting average at 89.
Coffs Colts player RogerLouis Mourin had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 20 wickets at an average of 11.35.
Claye Cooper of Macksville Cricket Club had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 13.
Colts player Jeremy Griffith had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper, taking eight.
Back on the water after Alfred
FOLLOWING a soggy start to the new year, the Urunga Sail Training Club (USTC) has been taking a group of dedicated students through small boat courses in recent months.
Despite unusually low student numbers, USTC secretary Kerry Ridgley said the courses were off to a “pretty good start” before being brought to an abrupt halt by the arrival of ExTropical Cyclone Alfred.
“[After] torrential rain and flooding, with the Bellinger and Kalang rivers flushing out floodwaters and debris out to sea, the USTC finally got back onto the river to finish up the last two weeks of the current sailing course,” said Kerry.
The sail training club has also welcomed a new vessel to its fleet.
On Saturday morning, 22 March, under a somewhat overcast sky with light winds and a slightly turbid low tide,
the USTC was able to give “Kitty Kat”, a fire engine-red Pacer, its first spin on the river.
Like many of the USTC’s training boats, this beautiful timber Pacer was recently donated to the club by Rick Sutherland of Sawtell.
The new boat will be used by beginners but also has spinnaker rigging that can be used by more advanced sailors.
Registrations for the club’s next course on 3 May are now open.
Round 2 wins for Snappers and Marlins
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins have both been victorious during the second round of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.
The Snappers won their grand final rematch 29-17 against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Port Macquarie.
It was the Snappers second straight win to start the season as they sit on top of the first grade ladder as the only undefeated side.
The Marlins recorded their first win of the season accounting for the Grafton Redmen 29-21 at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
Macksville’s Quinn Ledger was the best allrounder.
Under 16s
Nana Glen Cricket Club’s Zane Guthrie had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 276 runs at an average of 69.
Zane Guthrie was also the champion player.
Prabhjot Virk of the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels had the best bowling aggregate taking 12 wickets.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Oakley Baylis had the best bowling average at 6.27.
Macksville’s Aston Ramunno had the most catches with 10.
Under 14s
Macksville’s Quinn
Ledger had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 257 runs at an average of 64.25.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Joshua de Groot had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 15 wickets at an average of 9.47.
Joshua De Groot was also the champion player.
Alby Butler of Diggers Cricket Club had the most catches with eight.
Under 12s
Sehaj singh Mahal of the Diggers Cricket Club had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 361 runs at an average of 72.2.
Sehaj singh Mahal was also the champion player.
Diggers player Zayden
Parry had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 12 wickets at an average of 2.75.
Zayden Parry also took the most catches with six.
Female cricket awards
Bianca Dyson of the Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club was the best Under 19 female cricketer and highest achiever. Zoe Tarlinton of the Nana Glen Cricket Club was the best Under 16 female cricketer and highest achiever.
Grace Chaseling of the Woolgoolga Cricket Club was awarded the Sean Kelleher Shield as the Junior Spirit Award recipient.
Mid North Coast Rugby Union’s Northern Division season has a break this weekend, before resuming with Round 3 matches on Saturday, 26 April.
The Snappers are away to the Kempsey Cannonballs, while the Marlins travel to take on the Port Macquarie Pirates.
Port Macquarie Pirates had a 59-7 win at home against the Kempsey Cannonballs, which was their first victory of the season.
Round 2 results Coffs Harbour Snappers vs Hastings Valley Vikings. Reserve grade: Snappers 29 def. Vikings 3. Under 18s: Snappers 10 def. Vikings 3. Under 16s Boys: Snappers 24 def. Vikings 5. Under 14s Red: Vikings 26 def. Snappers 15. SCU Marlins vs Grafton Redmen. Reserve grade: Redmen 29 def. Marlins 19. Women’s: Redmen 40 def. Marlins 0. Under 16s Boys: Marlins 20 def. Redmen 5. Under 14s Boys: Marlins 53 def. Redmen 14. Coffs Harbour Snappers vs Kempsey Cannonballs. Under 16s Girls: Snappers 33 def. Cannonballs 25. Under 14s Girls: Snappers 36 def. Cannonballs 15. Under 14s Black: Cannonballs 105 def. Snappers 0.
q Students sailing on a Pacer.
q Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels won the Club Championship.
AFL North Coast season underway
By Aiden BURGESS
AUSSIE Rules returned to the Coffs Coast as the latest AFL North Coast season got underway last weekend.
Port Macquarie Magpies seniors began their premiership defence in dominant style, smashing the
Grafton Tigers 27.12 (174) to 5.7 (37) in Grafton.
The scheduled opening round match between the Sawtell/Toormina Saints and Macleay Valley Eagles at Richardson Park was postponed due to the wet weather.
Sawtell/Toormina
Saints women started their premiership defence in dominant fashion with a 14.18 (102) to 0.0 (0) demolition of the Port Macquarie Magpies at Richardson Park.
Northern Beaches Blues women started their season with a 5.7 (37) to 5.0 (30) win against the Coffs Harbour
Breakers at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
Port Macquarie Magpies
Under 18s had a 14.10 (94) to 4.7 (31) win against reigning premiers Sawtell/Toormina Saints at Richardson Park.
Coffs Harbour Breakers
Under 18s began their season with a 7.9 (51) to 4.8 (32) win
against the Northern Beaches Blues at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
The AFL North Coast season takes a break this weekend, before resuming with Round 2 matches on Saturday, 26 April, as part of the Anzac Round.
Coffs Harbour Breakers
and Sawtell/Toormina Saints meet in their first local derby of the season at Richardson Park, and the Port Macquarie Magpies are at home against the Macleay Valley Eagles.
Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/Toormina Saints women meet in their grand final rematch, and the Breakers reserves begin their premiership defence against the Saints.
Cricket NSW calls for infrastructure support
WITH the Federal election looming, Cricket NSW has called on candidates in Cowper to commit to supporting community sport infrastructure projects in Coffs Harbour and Macksville.
Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia have identified 23 priority infrastructure projects they are seeking
support for across the state.
One is the C.ex International Stadium Regional Indoor Sports Centre project, which would see the construction of a new four-to-six lane indoor training facility for visiting teams at an estimated cost of $2 million.
It is proposed the project
would benefit almost 2000 people currently involved in the Coffs Harbour District Cricket Association and inspire more children to get involved in sport locally.
A further project at Phillip Hughes Oval in Macksville would see the installation of field lighting, at an estimated cost of $500,000.
It is proposed the project would benefit those currently involved in the Nambucca Valley Cricket Association and allow for extended use of the facilities.
“The cricket community in Cowper have identified the enormous benefits that these projects would bring to the people of the Coffs
Coast and Nambucca Valley,” said Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon.
“There are close to 2000 registered cricket players in these regions and those people deserve access to quality, modern facilities.
“The health and well being benefits from sport, whether that be cricket or at
Seahorses edge past Roosters
By Mick BIRTLES
RUGBY league fans were treated to a preview of what to expect in this year’s Group 2 Women's Tackle competition when the Nambucca Roosters hosted the Woolgoolga Seahorses in a trial match under lights at Coronation Park, Nambucca Heads, on Friday night.
The game was played over three 20 minute sessions with the home side coming very close to getting the better of last year's premiers.
Solid defence and good completions from both sides were a feature of the first twothirds of the game with ball handling errors not creeping in until fatigue started to be apparent in the later stages.
The Roosters were able to find space in the Woopi defence close to the line 10 minutes into the game.
A delighted Wulaaren Walker scored a try during her first game with the Roosters and a successful conversion from Xanthi Hand took them to a 6-0 lead.
The visitors retaliated with a series of tackle breaking runs and had the home side under pressure against their line.
But despite getting themselves into great field position, they were unable to score before the first 20 minutes of play came to an end.
In the second term of the game, momentum shifted back to the Roosters as they held
the Seahorses in their half for an extended period until a line break from Woopi took them 75 metres and across the line. Hannah McGraw scored the points, and converted, to even the score at 6-6. Both teams slogged it out to break the tie until Woopi’s Kia Archibald produced a try eight minutes into the last stanza that was not converted.
Despite both teams getting close to the line a number of times, they were not able to increase their points on the board and at full-time the visitors took the win 10-6.
The standard of play from both teams was a telling indicator that the Group 2 Women’s Tackle competition for 2025 is going to be a thriller.
multi-purpose facilities, are undeniable and we call on the candidates in Cowper to commit their support ahead of the election on May 3.
“We’d like to thank those who have already shown interest in these projects and look forward to assisting our communities to make this a reality.”
q Nambucca Roosters’ Xanthi Hand was impressive in attack against Woolgoolga during their trial match at Coronation Park on Friday night.
q Nambucca Roosters’ Reanna Stacey Threatens the line during their trial match at Coronation Park on Friday night.
Coffs Basketball champions crowned
By Aiden BURGESS
THE champions of Coffs Harbour Basketball Association’s senior summer season have been
crowned after winning their grand finals at Sportz Central.
“Beyond Towing - Coffs Harbour” won the Men’s A Grade title 67-58 against
the Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s Men 1. Noah Light had a game high 22 points for the Suns, and Adrian Schmidt had 20 points for the winners.
q Men’s A Grade winners ‘Beyond Towing
Noah Light was named Most Valuable Player of the grand final.
Spoons won the Men’s B Grade title, beating Sweet Home Wembanyama 60-39.
Harry Rayner had a game high 22 points for the winners.
Cooper Patricks was named Most Valuable Player of the grand final.
Hoop Troop capped off
an undefeated season with a 77-53 grand final victory against the Coffs Harbour Suns Under 16s Men 1, to win the Men’s C Grade title.
Miguel Philippe Mendoza had a game high 23 points for the winners.
Eli Plater was named Most Valuable Player of the grand final.
Narwhals Loaded won the Women's A Grade title,
and Coffs Harbour Suns Under 18s Women 1 were runners-up.
Alexis Plater was named the competition’s Most Valuable Player.
Ring Ins won the women’s social competition grand final, beating Mantas Mystics 38-25. Brooke Dart was named Most Valuable Player of the grand final.
- Coffs Harbour’.
q Men’s C Grade winners ‘Hoop Troop’.
Sawtell Bowls Results
By Geoff HAMPSON
MONDAY Twilight Bowls 7/
A Waters, D Tree DEF T Wright, G Hampson
R Redman, J Knight, K Taylor
DEF R Avery, D Beedie, D Ide
S Cook G Davidson, N Elford
DEF K Mason, R Hampson, J Cherne
E Korchma, S Kennedy, P Roach
DEF J Chapman, L Read, B Kennedy
S Beedie, C Christian, DEF K Kratz, D Ryan
J Fleming, N Foy, M Flint DEF B Tremayne, G Zanchetta, E Nicolaou
MNC Cross Country
By Peter BERRINGTON
13 APRIL 2025 at Woolgoolga Lakeside
TUESDAY Ladies Social Bowls 8/4/25
A Waters, G Pickard, J Partridge, N Harvey DEF A Waters J Brown, N Elford, J Alford
L Kratz, B Bracken, L North DEF
L Savage, N Staff, N Feltrin
WEDNESDAY Men’s Social Bowls 9/4/25
J Chapman, B Condon, A Pyke
DEF T Mitchell, B Fitzpatrick, R Williams
S Shaw, J Rice, L Preston DEF W Hall, D Anderson, A Berry
R Stock, B Martin, P Collins DEF I Muller, L Zecchinati, N Lamond
C Christian, E Nicolaou, D
13:02, 23; Jack Duncan 13:15, 24; Matt Evans 13:21, 25; Cooper Mears 14:09, 26; Chris McCosker 14:16, 27; Jack McCosker 14:17, 28; Kane Woodgate 14:19, 29; River Woodgate 14:34, 30; Archie Feain 14:45, 31; Peter Feain 14:46, 32; Jack Brennan 15:06, 33; Miles Hamilton 16:49, 34; Kumsal Gozeloglu 17:29, 35; Oaklei Nuttall 18:20, 36; Iggi Nuttall 18:47, 37; Archer Chadwick 18:57, 38; Henry Owen 18:58, 39; Kevin Owen 18:59, 40; Steel Beveridge 32:36, 41.
RESULTS: 2km (Female)Bayley Johnson 8:43, 1; Zara Johnson 9:23, 2; Lacey Van Hoeck 9:25, 3; Emma Sandes 9:29, 4; Maya Hill 9:34, 5; Madeline Ham 9:46, 6; Willow Nuttall 10:13, 7; Kalani Vigors 10:42, 8; Lola Barclay 10:44, 9; Lucy Ham 10:53,
Coffs Table Tennis Results Sport Results
By Margaret ILES
FRIDAY 11th April, 2025 Division 1
Lachlan Dierkx d George Ruaporo 3/0, Tim Garrad d Paul Hendriks 3/1, Reece Baker d George Ruaporo 3/0, Lachlan Dierkx d Tim Garrad 3/0, Reece Baker d Tim Garrad 3/0, Paul Hendriks d Lachlan Dierkx 3/1, Reece Baker d Paul Hendriks 3/2,
CEX Woolgoolga Lawn Bowls results
By Suzanne BRACHER
PENNANT Results
12/4/2025:Grade 5 Woolgoolga playing Urunga at Urunga Rain Postponed.
Grade 7 Woolgoolga (D) Urunga. Social Bowls
Tuesday 8/4/3025 (AM) Rink: 3
D Foster, E Nielsen, N Haines (D) M Costello, J Hampstead, H Dunbar. H Wood, J Burgess, J Merchant ( D) H Wood, M Campos, D Porta.
Tuesday 8/4/2025: (Pairs)
Tim Garrad d George Ruaporo 3/0, Reece Baker d Lachlan Dierkx 3/2, Paul Hendriks d George Ruaporo
3/0. WINNER: Reece Baker from Paul Hendriks. Division 2 Ann Joy d Patrick Howard 3/0, Sharee Templeton d Char Berglund
3/0, King McKie d Patrick Howard 3/0, Ann Joy d Char Berglund
3/0, King McKie d Char Berglund 3/1, Ann Joy d Sharee Templeton 3/0, Sharee Templeton d King McKie 3/2, Patrick Howard d Char Berglund 3/1, Ann Joy d King McKie 3/1, Sharee Templeton d Patrick Howard 3/0. WINNER: Ann Joy
Rink 1:P Diamond, J Taylor (D) J Wilcox, M Hopes. Rink 2: D Barnard, S Barnard ( D) N Wills, K Stirling. Rink 3: T Weston, B Merchant(D) J Gibbons, Fred C. Rink 4: A Plain, C Davis (D) L Walsh, R Shaw. Rink 5 : T Mc, P Buck (D) Jackey , Wayne. Rink 6: A Wroe, R Gurber (D) B Richmond, P Parker.
Rink 7: R Bennell, L Walsh, (D) C Dodd, S Dodd. Wednesday 9/4/2025
(Wanderers) Rink 10: J Martin, C Williams, I Gental (D) J Whalien, G Woolley, S Ferro. Rink 11: N Wills, J Simmons, J Simpson (D) P Diamond, M Mulligan, k Stirling. Rink 12: G
Wheeler DEF N Stahlhut, B Newling, G Campbell
T Lavell, A Baker, B Blight DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh
J Richardson, G Zanchetta, J Urge DEF A Jones, M Gibbons, W Kellam
P Roach, D Bond, B Meadows
DEF S Sillar, G Fisher, N Sillar
K Raymond, M Cutts, M Sharpe
DEF P Swain, W Vaughn, A Sorbello
T Brooks, R Cridge, A Taylor
DEF P Paunovic, K Sharman, M Flint
I Maderic, M Jenkins, R Petterson DEF M Hastings, A Vivian, M Aujard
RESULTS: 5km (Male) - Angus Morgan 24:22, 1; Oliver Philip
from Sharee Templeton. Division 3 Jo Ellis d Lindsay Jones 3/1, Boyd McGregor d Aiden Haigh 3/2, Dominic Arjona d Lindsay Jones 3/0, Boyd McGregor d Jo Ellis 3/2, Dominic Arjona d Boyd McGregor d 3/0, Aiden Haigh d Jo Ellis 3/2, Dominic Arjona d Aiden Haigh 3/0, Boyd McGregor d Lindsay Jones 3/0, Dominic Arjona d Jo Ellis 3/0, Aiden Haigh d Lindsay Jones 3/0. WINNER: Dominic Arjona from Boyd McGregor. Always looking for new players and members.
Burgess, J Hampstead, I Brien (D) Bear, R Shaw, D Mason. Rink 13: M Lambert, P Jones, B Pendred (D) J Lynn, G Smith, J Taylor.
Thursday 10/4/2025 (AM) H Dunbar, L Fairhall, J Merchant, D Foster, J Merchant (D) H Dunbar, M Campos, J Hampstead, N Haines. Friday 3/4/2025. (2.4.2) D Hodge, M Hodge (D) C Davis, Wayne. Rink 4: C Dodd, S Dodd ( D) L Walsh, S Bailey Rink 5 : S Barnard, H Katala (D) L Walsh, D Barnard. Rink 6: J Gibbins, R Whelan (D) R Gurber, B Merchant. Rink:10 J Burgess, G Burgess, K Stirling (D) Jeff, J Coleman, G Lane. Rink 11: A
T Thorn, D Hargreaves, L McLeod def P Poulton, J Kennedy, V Slater 23/10. S Betts, P Garner, J Slater def B Biden, S Hancock, A Worboys 21/19. S Meyer, C McVicar, L Loadsman def M England, C Treharne, K Cutmore 22/14. E Blanton, L McLean. K Blow def F Gaunt, D Futcher, R Crestani
Wroe, R Shaw (D) Colleen, S Walls Rink 10: H Shultz, R Bennell (D) J Lynn, P Diamond. Rink 13: T McKenzie P Buck (D) A Prain, P Wroe.
Mid North Coast Veteran Golfers results
By Colin CUTT
ON Tuesday, 8 April, 41 MNC Veteran golfers competed in a single stableford at Bellingen Golf Course, in heavy conditions due to the recent rain.
Kev Taylor, N Foy, D Grebert DEF P Roach, M Flint, B Meadows
K Sharman, K Lewis, A Berry DEF D Melia, G Staunton Latimer, A Baker R Morris, W Sharkey, K Sharkey DEF N Kotrozos, J Oates, J Tainsh W Vaughn, A Wagstaff, D Anderson DEF L Fisher, G Fisher, S Sillar
J Urge, G Zanchella, T Karam DEF H Muir, P Paunovic, A Sorbello T Brooks, R Cridge, A Taylor DEF T Wright, N Elford, Ken Taylor J Brown, J Smithers S Thompson DEF B Hamilton, H Slater, N Wong
RESULTS: 2km (Male) - Edison Happ 8:39, 1; Finn Griffin 8:49, 2; Max Herbert 9:28, 3; Donovan Duncan 9:30, 4; Daniel Ham 9:40, 5; Lachlan Herbert 9:44, 6; Ben Ewart 10:02, 7; Enzo Perez 10:37, 8; Toby Fidge 10:40, 9; Lucas Perez 10:47, 10; Theo Moffatt 11:01, 11; Drew Herbert 11:10, 12; Jesse Munn-Power 11:11, 13; Astin Nuttall 11:22, 14; August Hamilton 11:22, 15; Max Kelly 11:23, 16; Thomas Feain 11:31, 17; Darcy Kelly 11:37, 18; Harry McCosker 12:11, 19; Harvey Griffin 12:12, 20; Sam Ewart 12:20, 21; Jonathan Ewart 12:23, 22; Hunter Lynch Sawtell
RESULTS: 10km (Male) - Chris Giffin 44:11, 1; Paul Woodhouse 46:17, 2; Patrick Brennan 46:31, 3; Adam Johnson 50:50, 4; James Barker 53:29, 5; Bruce Meder 54:40, 6; Greg Crowe 55:59, 7; Gavin Smithwick 1:0:11, 8; Kieren Ward 1:04:03, 9.
P Poulton, M England def E Kidd, C England 23/10. R DeMeio, L Loadsman def T Lainchbury, J Slater 15/12. S Bailey, D Walsh def T Aarts, P Elliott 26/6. A Worboys, S Hancock def M Cutts, B Edwards 15/13. D Doyle, D Lindner def D Futcher, R Lane 24/11. R Oakley, V Slater def D Hargraves, Y Schmitt 17/8. R Coffey, C Cutt def J Phillips, A Stone 15/14. C McVicar, N McVicar def R Jupp, D Hancock 18/16.
Winner: Brad Reeson 37, 1st runner-up Greg McLagan 36, 2nd runner-up Nick Jenkins 34 c/b, Terry Parsons 34 c/b.
NTP’s: 3rd John Ward, 7th Greg McLagan, 12th John Greensill. Ball run to 32 pts. Also, on Tuesday, 8th April, 16 MNC Veteran golfers competed in a single stableford at CEX Urunga Golf Course, also in heavy conditions.
Winner: Geoff Sheridan 37, runner-up Steve Curry 36. NTP’s: 18th Mick Bellew, 16th Michael Bleakley. Ball run to 32 pts.
Coffs Harbour Ladies Golf
By Leah RAY
TUESDAY 8th APRIL 9 HOLE
SINGLE STABLEFORD A GRADEKaren Webster 19, Mary Aarts 18
B GRADE - Jackie England 18, Lisa Mortlock 17 NTPs - 3rd hole - Chris Cuthbert, Anne Dew, 6th holeJennifer Blake WEDNESDAY 9th
APRIL GOLF NSW MEDAL ROUND 3
STROKE A GRADE - Kathy Goodsell - Eagles 75 (CB), Carrie Fagan 75 B GRADE - Prue Trethowan 75, Joan Livingston 77 GROSS A GRADETrish Nance 86 GROSS B GRADE
A 4BBB Teams of Four with a Single comp in conjunction was the game of the day on Tuesday 8 April. Winning team was Roma Johnson, Janelle Coleman, Leslie Milne and Laurie Pilon with 64 pts.
Runners-up Di Richards, Kim Batty, Teresa King and Maureen Toms. Singles winners were Aileen
McFarlane 36 pts on c/b from Janelle Coleman, Jan Weiley 34 pts and Maureen Toms 31. NTP 4th Wendy Rogers, 7th Meryl Fisher, 9th Di Richards, 11th Roma Johnson.
Tuesday 29 has been changed to 1st Round Monthly Medal, rescheduled from March, a wash-out.
By Ken MASON
ADVERTISING
Advertising within the Coffs Coast News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call us now 02 4981 8882 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Snooker Club
Park Beach Men’s Bowling Club
By Todd BROWN
MIXED Triples Tuesday 8 April
2025
C Domjohn, L Clancy, S Willis d K Bienefelt, A Dorrington, P Toy 23 - 11
S Crawford, G Meyer, P Lilly d M Finn, Peter, A Bell 18 - 16
M Cutts, T Aarts, G Stanford d P Elliot, F Martin, A Worboys 22 - 16
J Martin, D Powell, R Coffey d J McLeod, B Worboys, I Trengrove 24 - 10
P Rambow, C Hanson, M Flint d Rosco, J Long, B Johns 24 - 15
Sawtell golf results
By Janet O’DOWD
8/4 MEDLEY Stableford
Terry Rapley 43, Neil Oates 40, Allan Heffernan 39, Lochie Smith 38c/b, Michael Hart 38. Balls to 32c/b. NTP 7 A: Lochie Smith, B: Jeffery Vanderwyk, C: Dieder Galas (pro pin). NTP 11 A: Charles AutryHall, B: Kane Hickey, C: Michael Hart 9/4 Stroke A: Sharon Shipman 74, Georgia Perkins 77, Gayle James 79c/b. B: Margaret Gill 74, Robyn Hampson 76, Robyn O’Dwyer 79c/b. C: Jane Roser 80, Rosi Hrncir 84, Elaine Everitt 86. Balls to 82c/b. Pro pin Margaret Gill. Straight Drive A: Rhonda Cooper, B: Robyn O’Dwyer, C: Linda Wood. Putting A:
SPORT RESULTS
G Williams, R Beaumont, G Hinsley d L McLeod, C Weatherall, K Morrison 17 - 14
T Brown, J Clarke, S Jones d W Grimshaw, J Robinson, N McVicar 22 - 21
Macca, J Hill, Nicko d S Kindred, J Thorn, K Kaaden 16 – 15
W Moore, R Oakley, D Walsh d D Catling, M Miller, M Star 20 - 9
Triples Thursday 10 April 2025
L Goodacre, D Wilson d C Orton, F Martin 22 - 9
D Powell, A Dorrington, G Stanford d C Brian, D Hoffman, P Rambow 21 - 20
J Meyer, M Finn, R Douglas d C Williamson, P Laingsbury, R Lane 24 - 16
Coffs Harbour District Darts
By Ray BEASLEY
SAWTELL
Summer Comp
Monday 7 April
Bull Finish def Surgical Steel 5-4
Bad Habbits def Warriors 8-1
DILLIGAF def Thunderstruck
8-1
Fluke Shots - Bye 100s
Wendy Mason, B: Robyn Hampson, C: Rosi Hrncir
10/4 Play 9 Daniel Pritchard 18, Keith Hutchinson 17. Balls to 16c/b
European pedigree
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER, Page 40
and a footballing résumé shaped by years on the pitch and in the dugout - both at home and abroad.
The Italian-born tactician holds an Australian FA “A” Licence and UEFA “B” Licence and boasts a playing career that kicked off in style.
He made his senior debut against Serie A heavyweights Bologna at the age of just 15 in a mid-season friendly.
He went on to spend more than a decade playing semiprofessionally in Italy, gaining unique insights from inside some of the country’s most storied clubs, including Bologna and Avellino, where his uncle also played in Serie A.
The man from Bologna now says he’s ready to help the next generation of footballers on the North Coast.
“The Technical Director role at NCF is an exciting challenge,” he said.
“It’s the perfect opportunity to help grow the game and be a point of influence for coaches and players in the region.
“At Manly, the culture was all about preparing players to take the next step, whether that was an A-League academy or firstgrade NPL.
“If they had the talent and the work ethic, we gave them the tools.”
A firm believer in intelligent football, Bonarrigo says his approach is about more than
P North, P Lilly, J Phillips d W
Grimshaw, J Robinson, M Flint 23
- 10 C Weatherall, K Morrison, T Erskine d J Williams, R Beaumont, G Hinsley 20 - 17
D Francis, P Elliot, I Trengrove d C McLeod, B Kelly, P Newman 26 - 15
D Catling, B Garner, B Trotman d C Hansen, Rosco, J Long 20 – 12
J Eding, H Katala, G Colman d P Booth, R Kelly, T Cooper 21 – 13
I Cork, B Parker, R Benell d S Kindred, J Kindred, G Kindred 19 – 15
J Lowndes, C Lloyd, I Parker d B Walmsley, B Wanging, B Edwards 22 – 13
Hannah (1)
Asttan (1)
Ben (1)
Chris (1)
Dave C (1)
Dave H (2)
Dean (5)
Edward (1)
Jeremy (5)
Kevin (1)
Kurt (4)
Paul (3)
Peter (1)
Ricky (3)
Rob Ha (1)
11/4 Medley Stableford Phil
Elliott 37
12/4 2-man Ambrose Charles
Bevan & Ken Higgins 63.5, Ashley
Muir & Darren Blaikie 64, Paul
tactical awareness.”
just developing technical ability.
“My philosophy is about building decision-makers; players who understand the game, who adapt, who thrive in systems that reward teamwork, creativity, and
NCF General Manager Duncan Marchant said Bonarrigo was the standout pick in a nationwide search.
“It’s been a lengthy process, but one we wanted to get absolutely right,” he said.
“Appointments like this aren’t
M Miller, W Moore, S Jones d N
Dean, R Host, J Bishop 26 - 19
Social Bowls is played each week Tuesday pm (Open)
Wednesday am (Ladies) Thursday pm (Mens) Friday am (Open) Saturday pm (Open).
Greens are open for roll-up Tuesday to Sunday from 11.00am. Barefoot Bowls enquiries through reception please.
Park Beach Bowling Club conducts free bowls lessons every Saturday morning, weather permitting, from 9.30am. All ages and skill levels welcome. Please put your name down at Club reception by 3.00pm Friday to make sure you don’t miss out.
Rob Ho (6)
Steve (1)
High pegs
Bob (90)
Dave H (76)
Kurt (113)
Leader Board
DILLIGAF 48
Surgical Steel 45
Bad Habbits 44
Hope & Asttan Hope 64.25. Balls to 67.25. NTP 7 A: Ken
NTP 11
just about coaching credentials, they’re about cultural fit and long-term vision.
“Nico brings not only experience from the competitive Sydney leagues but also a rare European edge that will benefit the next generation of footballers on the North Coast.”
q Smuggler at the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race.
Higgins, B: Shane Burns, C: Mark Shipman.
A: John Veness (pro pin), B: Shane Burns
q North Coast Football’s new Technical Director Nico Bonarrigo.
PIKE
Aden John ‘Pikey’
11th April 2025, passed peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family. Late of Coffs Harbour. Loved husband of Linda, father and poppy.
Aged 79 Years
Gone Bowling
Aden’s Graveside Funeral Service was held at Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery, Karangi on Thursday 17th April 2025.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
SAWTELL
Mary Elizabeth ‘Betty’
Mervyn Keith Stengert
7th April 2025
Passed away peacefully at the beautiful Coffs Haven. Much loved husband of Edna, great dad to his sons Matthew & Andrew. Loved by his grandchildren Joshua, Madalynne & Nathanael, and Levi, Jonah & Violet.
Aged 88 Years
At home with Jesus.
A private cremation was held as per Mervyn’s wishes.
VICTOR RULLIS FUNERAL SERVICES
(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au
Marilyn Aileen
12th April 2025, late of Coffs Harbour. Dearly beloved wife of Fred (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Tracey & Janelle and Andrew & Renai. Adored grandmother of their children.
Aged 81 Years
Lived Well
Loved To Have A Laugh
A Private Family Funeral Service will be held for Marilyn in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.
Friends are invited to join the family at Coffs Harbour Golf Club to celebrate Marilyn’s Life with refreshments on Tuesday 22nd April 2025 commencing at 3.00pm.
12th April 2025, passed away peacefully at Highview, Dorrigo MPS. Beloved wife of Merv (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Ross & Lyn (dec’d), Noel & Joanne, Narelle and Yvonne. Much loved nan of Penny & Josh, Kym & Andrew, Jacqui, Samantha, Lucy & Ben and Ryan & Eliza. Adored great-nan of Bailey (dec’d), Grace, Sam, Lachlan, Lelani, Elizabeth, Layla, Amelia and Anastasia.
Aged 98 Years Finally At Rest
A Private Family Funeral Service was held for Betty in St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Dorrigo followed by internment in Dorrigo Cemetery, Dorrigo.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
Elaine Thelma
11th April 2025, late of Sawtell. Dearly beloved wife of ‘Skinny’ (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Jon, Kim & Sid Hickson, Mark and Anitsa & Tony Hely. Adored grandmother and great-grandmother of their children. Loved sister, sister-in law and fond auntie of her nieces and nephews.
Aged 90 Years
Sadly Missed
Singing In Heaven
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Elaine’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Tuesday 22nd April 2025 commencing at 10.00 am, thence for interment in Coffs Harbour Lawn Cemetery, Karangi.
Family have requested that everyone attending wear bright and colourful clothing.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Coffs Harbour 6652 1999
CRAGG
PAYNE
Betty May
10th April 2025, peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Late of Coffs Harbour. Dearly beloved wife of Keith (dec’d). Loving mother and mother-in-law of Bill & Deb, Di & Lew Nord, Kath & Col McIntosh, Deb & Marty, Chrissie & Wayne McLellan, Michelle & Barny and Brad (dec’d). Adored ‘Nanny Bunny’ of her 19 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Aged 92 Years
Loved And Cherished Always Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Betty’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Thursday 1st May 2025 commencing at 11.30 am.
Please find livestream details on Keith Logue & Sons website.
KEITH LOGUE & SONS
Position Vacant Property Manager
Coffs Harbour and District Local Aboriginal Land Council (CHDLALC) seek the services of a suitably qualified person to fill the position of Property Manager.
Interested persons should email admin@ coffsharbourlalc.com.au to request an application package. Applications close Friday 02 May 2025 at 5pm. Enquiries: please call Chris Spencer on 0408 264 887.
ads@newsofthearea.com.au 02 4981 8882
Lakes Estate - Modification 5 to retain overhead 66kva powerlines
Application No: MP05_0129-Mod-5
Location: Lakes Drive, Lakes Estate, North Boambee Valley 2450
Applicant: Keiley Hunter
Council Area: Coffs Harbour
Consent Authority: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces
Description of the development consent:
Residential Subdivision to provide 162 lots
Description of proposed modification: Retain existing overhead 66kva powerlines as required by
Essential Energy
Contact: Meg D’souza
Senior Planning Officer, Regional Assessments
Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
T: (02) 6650197
E: meg.dsouza@dpie.nsw. gov.au
Contact: Keiley Hunter
Town Planner
T: 0458515963
E: keiley@keileyhunter.com.au
SAT 19/4, 8:30am - 2pm 2/25 Orara St, Urunga Tools, kitchenware, boys toys and clothes, craft items, adult clothing plants & bric a brac
Plants For Sale
tall several palms in each 10” pot $15 6652 8815
FROM $5 - hundreds of plants including hanging pots. Open every day. 11 Sand Street Coffs Harbour.
ATMOS sound bar only 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100. 0412 081 950
1m H x 3mL x 60cm D. 6 drawers, 2 long drawers 1m long and 3 double shelves. Black/brown outside, white inside Immac cond. Moving sale $200. 0415 981 605 F221124
STOOL seats. Variety size, type and colour. $30 6652 3791
SOUND Bar 2.0.2 CH 120W Dolby ATMOS 12 months old with 2 built in subwoofers. Price $100 Ph 0412 081 950
Classifieds 4981 8882
TEASPOONS large collection as new feat various characters $3-5 per spoon 0403 425 913
TWO single bed frames round heads & foot rail black. $50 both 0412 254 563
YORK stepping unit/ air walker, 3 different exercise benches, 9 sets of weights, 3 sets of bars and weights. For individual sale or the lot for $250. 6656 4293
1999 Nissan Patrol STGU, manual, 4x4 diesel, 330,000klms comes with Cooper tyres, CB radio, snorkel chrome bull bar, clear view extension mirrors more extras, exc cond $27,500. CK52AQ Coffs Harbour. 0407 536 896
2008 Honda Civic Sedan
1.8L manual, 1 owner
200,995km. $4,000
BGN41G. 0437 415 487
e180425
SOLD
Yamaha 93cm H. $1000 neg. 0402 760 065
PIANO Leider. Recently reconditioned $1500. 0402 264 715
PORCELAIN biscuit jar (8in high) with cream and jam pots, tea strainer and small flat teaspoon holder. $35 0400 641 561 F210225
PORCELAIN biscuit jar
$18 ono - For die-hard morning tea enthusiasts! 0400 641 561
SOLD
THREE Leas floral folding screen. 165cm H x 60cm W. $30 Photos can be supplied 0490 161 119
TRAILER WHEEL Ford 205-65- R15 pro sand blasted epoxy primed & painted good rubber $60 0467 634 668
TWO macrame wall hangers hand made $50 both 0412 254 563
2017 Mondeo Wagon TDi, as new, 71,000 klms, rego & serviced to Mar 2026. ATI59F
$18,490. 0447 550 017 Re031025
2018 Toyota Camry white, 27,300klms, rego exp 29/09/25, auto, one owner, well serviced always garaged, exc cond. EDN48Q. $24,000 ono. 0431 229 351
Classifieds 4981 8882
PET
FORD FG 2009 cab chas ute, 6 spd man Tip Top tray with trundle ladder racks and tool box, H Reece T/Bar alloys 262,000kms excel cond one owner always garaged. $10,750 ono Ph 0422 440 802 Re080825
Classifieds 4981 8882
MAGNA sedan 2004 228,000 klms, 12 mths rego AXD45T $2,900 0404 178 999
MITSUBISHI Mirage white hatchback 2015 manual, 47,454 klms well serviced & garaged exc cond, one lady owner, $11,990 ono CD68GF. 6651 9790
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ONTHEBOX
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
ABC FAMILY, 7.30pm
When it comes to Bluey, one thing’s certain: kids and grown-ups alike cannot get enough. The adorable Brisbane-based blue heeler and her family’s adventures are always in high demand. While we have to wait for new animated escapades, this theatrical production brings the magic of Bluey to the stage –“for real life”, as Bingo would put it. Featuring brilliantly crafted, human-sized puppets and the voices we all know and love, Bluey’s Big Play sees dad Bandit (Dave McCormack) desperate for a bit of time out on his phone. However, Bluey and Bingo have other plans.
FRIDAY, April 18
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross makes a holiday herb basket.
8.30 Sherwood. (Malv) The Sparrows are forced to join the Bransons on their revenge mission, and must act quickly.
9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) A satirical news program.
10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. (Mlv, R)
10.30 Father Brown. (PGav, R)
11.20 Mayfair Witches. (MA15+a, R)
12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
THURSDAY
TASKMASTER AUSTRALIA
TEN, 8.30pm
Fans of Taskmaster’s UK version will know that the comedic game show isn’t always a barrel of laughs for acclaimed actresses who step outside their comfort zone to compete: Charlotte Ritchie (Call the Midwife) and Katherine Parkinson (Doc Martin both regularly bewildered during their stints. However, we’re now halfway through this fourth Down Under edition, and four-time Gold Logie winner Lisa McCune (pictured) is flourishing. The sweet-natured Blue Heelers star is adept at bending – but not breaking – the rules, a core tenet of Taskmaster success. Tonight, find out how the golden girl of Australian TV elects to stress out Tom Cashman.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 William And Harry: The Unseen Photos. (Premiere, M) 9.15 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. (R) 10.10 SBS World News Late.
4.15 Bamay. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WEDNESDAY BIG BOYS
ABC TV, 9.30pm
This UK comedy about two laddish university students stands out from the pack: a semiautobiographical tale from comedian Jack Rooke, it weaves together hilarious rites of passage and snippets of student life with more serious issues of grief and loss, examining toxic masculinity along the way. Rooke himself narrates, as Jack Dylan Llewellyn, pictured) and roommate Danny (Jon Pointing) navigate final-year dissertations, life decisions and dating disasters. There won’t be a dry eye by the end of this 2015-set third and final season, but in tonight’s premiere, it’s (almost) all smiles, with Danny, Jack, Corinne (Izuka Hoyle) and Yemi (Olisa Odele) living it up on “holi-bobs” in Greece.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Colin Fassnidge shares his baked pumpkin. 8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002, PGl, R) A New York socialite returns to Alabama to divorce the man she married and left behind, years earlier. Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Candice Bergen.
10.45 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma, R)
12.15 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 Deal
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus Melbourne Storm match, with NRL news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014, MA15+lv, R) An ex-hit man comes out of retirement. Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Postcards. (PG, R)
ONTHEBOX
SATURDAY, April 19
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Mv, R) 1.30 Darby And Joan. (Mad, R) 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.00 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? (PG, R) 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PGa, R) 4.45 Creative Types. (Ml, R) 5.10 Landline. (R) 5.40 Australian Story. (R)
6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) Father Brown investigates murder at a food fayre.
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R) An election announcement. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 MOVIE: Made In Dagenham. (2010, Ml, R) Female workers protest against discrimination. Sally Hawkins, Bob Hoskins. 9.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) The body of a wealthy landowner goes missing on the night of his death, exposing a web of secrets.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Qualifying. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Women’s Race. H’lights. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s Race. H’lights. 5.00 Going Places. (PGa, R) 5.30 Venice: Building Beauty From A Swamp. (Premiere)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG)
9.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Bologna. (Maw, R) Stanley Tucci heads to Bologna. 10.20 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGaw, R)
11.20 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
News. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.35 Over The Black Dot. 6.05 Our Law. 6.40 Engineering Tomorrow. (Final) 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 MOVIE: Silverado. (1985, M) 11.00 MOVIE: Romantic Comedy. (2019, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The
Movie Show. 6.15 RBG. (2018, PG) 8.05 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 10.25 Wild Target. (2010, M) 12.15pm Gold. (2016, M) 2.30 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 4.15 Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi) 6.35 Funny Face. (1957) 8.30 Larry Crowne. (2011, M) 10.20 99 Moons. (2022, MA15+, Swiss German) 12.30am Late Programs. 5.50 Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi)
SUNDAY, April 20
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 The Pope’s Easter Vigil. (R) 5.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 5.55 Back Roads. (R)
6.25 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
6.30 Compass. (PG)
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Darby And Joan. (Final, PGad)
8.15 Unforgotten. (Final, Ml)
9.05 Boat Story. (Final, MA15+v)
10.05 MOVIE: Ten Canoes. (2006, Mnv, R)
11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mls, R)
12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Ask The Doctor. (R)
3.35 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)
4.05 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.05 Easter In Australia. (PG, R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Bluey’s Big Play. 8.20 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Abbott Elementary. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 DW English News. 6.30 Al Jazeera. 7.00 APAC Weekly. 7.30 France 24 English News. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.00 Incredible Homes. (PGal, R) 10.00 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (R) 10.30 PBS Washington Week. 10.55 Ascot Kayaking. (PG, R) 11.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Race. 5.30 Rediscovering Venice. (PGa)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Ancient Empires. (Mav)
9.05 Secret Lebanon: The Treasures Of Byblos. (PG) 10.10 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (Ma, R) 11.05 Rebel With A Cause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. (Ma, R)
12.05 48 Hours To Victory. (PG, R)
2.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (PG, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
VICELAND (31)
6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm Motorcycle Racing. 1.10 Figure Skating. ISU European C’ships. Replay. 2.45 Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 The Day The Rock Star Died. 6.15 Abandoned Engineering. 8.10 The UnXplained. 9.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Amstel Gold Women’s Race. 10.30 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Hum Do Hamare Do. Continued. (2021, PG, Hindi) 8.10 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 10.00 Thirteen Days. (2000, M) 12.40pm To Chiara. (2021, M, Italian) 2.55 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 4.45 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 6.30 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 8.30 Truth. (2015) 10.50 The Hummingbird. (2022, M, French) 1.15am 99 Moons. (2022, MA15+, Swiss German) 3.25 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. All Aged Stakes Day, Mornington Cup and WATC Derby 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: The Frozen North. (PG) In the frozen north, walrus sing on rocky shores.
8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996, PGalv, R) Two meteorologists on the brink of divorce are forced to work together after they are caught in a severe storm. Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes.
10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R) A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren.
A poor boy wins a guided tour of a sweets factory. Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum.
10.35 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008, Mls, R)
12.30 How We Celebrate. (PGa, R)
1.30 Explore TV. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
9GEM (82)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple can’t decide whether to stay or leave.
8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.
9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) Paramedics are called to help a 92-year-old pinned under his mobility scooter.
10.30 Elsbeth. (Mad, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
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6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. (PGav, R) 3.00 Highway Cops. (PGa, R) 3.30 Border Patrol. (PGa, R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PGa, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.00 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (Return, Ml) Cathy pulls the Finglas community together in support of a festive good cause.
9.30 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R) A concert by Billy Joel.
11.30 MOVIE: Midnight Run. (1988, Mlv, 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)
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 60 Minutes.
8.00 RBT. (Ml)
8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. (MA15+a) A continued look at the People versus Michael Jackson trial.
10.30 9News Late.
11.00 See No Evil. (Mav)
11.50 The First 48. (Ma)
12.40 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (PG, R)
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
9GEM (82)
6am Morning Programs. 9.10 Only Fools And Horses. 9.50 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. 11.00 Ancient Aliens. Noon MOVIE: Flight Of The Navigator. (1986) 1.55 Motor Racing. ABB FIA Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. 3.00 Hunting Hitler. 4.00 Jeopardy! UK. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. (2013, M) 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.50 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. 11.00 Ancient Aliens. Noon Innovation Nation. 12.10 MOVIE: Red Dog. (2011, PG) 2.05 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Long Beach. H’lights. 3.15 Hunting Hitler. 4.15 Jeopardy! UK. 5.15 Young Sheldon. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Australia ReDiscovered. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boat Drivers C’ship. Season preview. Replay. 4.00 Full Custom Garage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Adelaide v GWS Giants. 9.00 Storage Wars. 9.30 Air
6.00 The Sunday Project. Joins panellists for a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
7.00 MOVIE: Mission: Impossible – Fallout. (2018, R) A secret agent must prevent disaster when stolen plutonium falls into the hands of an arms dealer. Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill. 10.00 FBI. (Mv, R) The Somalian terrorist group behind the death of Hobbs resurfaces, sending the team on a chase to take them down for good. 11.00 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
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9GO! (83)
ONTHEBOX
MONDAY, April 21
6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Matched. (PG, R) 11.10 Scandinavia. (Premiere) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Body On Somerton Beach. (Ma, R) 2.45 Travel Shooters. (PGa) 3.20 Going Places. (R) 3.50 The Cook Up. (R) 4.20 Mystery Of The Puzzling Pyramids Egypt. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Lara.
Continued. (2019, PG, German) 7.05 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 8.50 Funny Face. (1957) 10.45 Joyride. (2022, M) 12.35pm Larry Crowne. (2011, M) 2.25 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 4.05 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 5.40 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 8.30 Recon. (2019, MA15+) 10.20 Unknown Soldier. (2017, MA15+, Finnish) 12.50am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, April 22
(R) 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Trioli. (PGl)
9.00 Swingers: How To Win An Election.
9.30 The Assembly. (PG, R)
10.15 The ABC Of... (Ml, R) 10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Four Corners. (R) 12.00 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.20 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 1.05 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.45 Parkinson In Australia. (Mas, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Travel Quest. (PG, R) 10.05 Matched. (PG, R) 11.00 Scandinavia. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Egypt Code Breakers. (R) 3.00 Pita With Vegemite. (PGa) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Point.
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)
12.00 Guillaume’s Paris. (PG, R)
12.30 Unbroken. (Malv, R)
2.10 Faking Hitler. (Mns, R)
4.00 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PG, 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)
6am All Quiet On The Western Front. Continued. (1979, PG) 8.00 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 10.00 The Hummingbird. (2022, M, French) 12.25pm Truth. (2015) 2.45 Tourism. (2017) 4.10 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 5.50 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 8.30 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 11.00 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 2am Recon. (2019, MA15+) 3.45 Joyride. (2022, M) 5.30 Late Programs.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (Return, PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
9.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) TK gets a huge surprise on his 30th birthday. Tommy is determined to push through her latest crisis.
10.15 Suits L.A. (M)
11.15 The Agenda Setters.
12.15 Treadstone. (MA15+av)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Athletics. Stawell Gift. Easter Monday session. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (Return, PGl)
9.00 100% Footy. (M)
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. (MA15+av)
11.20 Police After Dark. (Mlv, R)
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Hello SA. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 8.40 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the week. 9.40 Taskmaster Australia. (Mals, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson. 10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 The Project. (R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.05 Doc. (Premiere, Ma) When Chief of Internal Medicine Dr Amy Larsen suffers a catastrophic brain injury, her life is turned upside down.
10.05 The Irrational. (Mav) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News.
A Current Affair.
Tipping Point: Travel Guides. (Premiere)
Australian Crime Stories. (Mav, R)
12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s
ONTHEBOX
WEDNESDAY, April 23
6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (Mal)
8.40 Weight Of The World. (MA15+a) Examines the drugs Ozempic and Mounjaro.
9.45 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+) June and Moira go undercover.
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Return, Malnv)
12.25 Lost Luggage. (MA15+a, R)
3.20 Invisible. (PGa, R)
4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 Akmal: Open For Renovations. (MA15+l, R)
11.15 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.15 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
2.30 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. (Ms)
8.30 The Grand Tour. (MA15+l) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 10.50 9News Late.
11.20 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.10 Next Stop.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
THURSDAY, April 24
9.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R)
9.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 10.45 ABC News.
11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Darby And Joan. (Final, PGad, R) 12.00 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 12.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 The Many Days Of Anzac. (PG, R) 4.20 Anzac Dawn Service From Sydney. 5.30 Anzac Dawn Service From Canberra.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us. (PGa)
8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel.
9.40 Virdee. (MA15+v)
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 Breaking Point. (MA15+av)
12.15 The Hollow. (Premiere, Malv)
1.15 Departure. (Ma, R)
2.50 Hitler’s Teen Killers. (Mav, R)
3.50 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.45am Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.40 Late Programs.
(64) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 7.05 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 9.40 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 11.20 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 2.10pm The Movie Show. 2.45 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 4.50 Dafne. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.35 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 8.30 Flags Of Our Fathers. (2006, MA15+) 10.55 Donnie Brasco. (1997, MA15+) 1.20am Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 8.35 Tourism. (2017) 10.00 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 12.50pm The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 3.25 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 5.30 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 8.30 The Flowers Of War. (2011, MA15+) 11.05 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 1.15am Flags Of Our Fathers. (2006, MA15+) 3.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Leah issues a stern warning.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Graeme Hall meets a singing Staffy. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec.
10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) The teams travel to Bulgaria.
11.30 Born To Kill? Trevor Hardy. (Mav, R) A look at serial killer Trevor Hardy.
12.30 Spitfire Guardians. (PG, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
4.50 Anzac Day Dawn Service.
By David WIGLEY
q North Coast Football’s new Technical Director Nico Bonarrigo.
