Big numbers flock to Sculpture On The Farm
By Lisa WISEMAN
Over
Strong
GLITZY GALA
By Lisa WISEMAN
q Dan, Milly and Willie from Newcastle, with Simon Barrett’s ‘Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing’.
DIGNITARIES, artists, volunteers and guests rubbed shoulders at Sculpture On The Farm’s Gala Cocktail Party.
red carpet was rolled out for the glittering occasion at Dungog’s James Theatre last Friday evening.
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By Shannon BENTON
STEP back in time and relive the golden era of country music when Get Rhythm, The Ultimate Johnny Cash and June Carter Story comes to the
James Theatre, Dungog, on Sunday 12 October at 2pm.
The two-part performance, led by husband-and-wife duo Mark and Joanne Caligiuri, captures the early career of the Man in Black and his iconic partner. Every detail has been carefully crafted to reflect the magic of Cash and Carter, from costumes and stage presence, to the distinctive sound
Big numbers flock to Sculpture On The Farm
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the Common.
Cars were parked along Common Road as far as the eye could see, while Dowling Street positively bustled.
On the Common there were enormous outdoor works like John FItzmaurice’s “Where’s The Cork?”, which won the RUPIO Prize for
Metallurgical Excellence.
There was also the acquisitive prizewinner “Big Yellow Taxi” by Stephen Coburn.
Smaller, indoor works included Jo Simpson’s “Boromean Bones”, winner of the Local Dungog Artist Prize.
Sculpture On The Farm is more than a static show.
Shuttle buses, sponsored by Dungog Shire Council, ferried art aficionados around the works, which were spread out across a considerable footprint.
Remarks from people who had seen the sculpture circuit included words like “awesome” and “stunning”.
But the locality and
that made their music timeless.
Audiences can expect to hear many of Cash’s biggest hits, including Folsom Prison Blues, Ring of Fire and Walk the Line, along with beloved duets such as Jackson and Long Legged Guitar Pickin’ Man.
But this is no ordinary tribute - Get Rhythm thrives on audience participation, ensuring every show is a lively and engaging celebration.
Mark and Joanne first began developing their act in 2007, inspired by the release of the awardwinning film Walk the Line.
Both musicians came with rich backgrounds: Mark toured widely as a guitarist in the 1980s and 90s before launching his own Elvis tribute show in 1996, while Joanne began performing at 14 as a church guitarist before
landscapes of Dungog, as well as its people were the real stars.
Behind the scenes, Phillipa and John Graham, and many volunteers, have worked hard to make the exhibition a thriving success.
One volunteer said that possibly the most amazing part of the show was the view from the top of the Common, looking across the sculptures, and over the hills toward the Tops.
Throughout the weekend and over those hills, “Music Midst The
becoming a lead vocalist in a Rockabilly band. Their mutual love for the music of the 1950s and 60s brought them together, and they haven’t looked back since.
Today, the pair travel and perform with their real-life family band, Mark's sons Chris on double bass and Lucas on drums, joined by cousin Adam Prozzo on lead guitar.
Much like Johnny and June, the family shares the stage and the road, creating an authenticity that has won the group praise in media appearances and live reviews.
“This is more than just a show for us,” says Joanne. “We are Johnny Cash and June Carter fans in real life, so we put our hearts and souls into every performance.”
Tickets for Get Rhythm at the James Theatre on Sunday 12 October, 2pm, are available at TryBooking.
Sculptures”, presented by the Performing Artists Of Dungog, rang out.
Sculptors and judges presented guided tours.
Cherie Platen held glass art demonstrations; Will Maguire ran a blacksmithing workshop; and there was the unique Percussive Fusion Of Music on the sculpture “Sowelo Two”.
Dungog Commoners Landcare took guests on Nature Walks.
The sculptures can still be viewed and purchased online at sculptureonthefarm.com.
q Mark and Joanne Caligiuri as Johnny and June.
q Strolling and enjoying ‘Music Midst the Sculptures’. q Volunteer Kerry Chick at the Indoor Exhibition marquee.
Recovery grants to be processed quicker
THE State Government last week announced it would immediately double the number of staff members working on the processing of Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) Recovery Grants for primary producers impacted by the May floods.
Since June, the RAA has received almost 2,000 applications and has approved more than $23 million in payments, however the Government admits the initial rollout faced “some delays” due to the large number of applications lodged.
According to the Government’s timeline, by last Friday all those who had previously applied should have either had their claim assessed or received a direct update on the status of their application.
The Government says the current time for processing an application has been reduced to 25 business days, with an aim to reduce this to 20 days as soon as possible.
The additional staff will
work directly on assessments, ensuring straightforward applications are fast-tracked, and more complex cases have the extra resources to speed up the appropriate review.
“Our message to primary producers is clear, we have implemented improvements to processing applications but there is more work to do, and I understand their concerns regarding the waiting time for payments,” Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said.
“That’s why we are doubling the number of people on the job, to clear the backlog and get more payments out the door.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, whose Mid North Coast electorate was smashed by the recordbreaking May floods, welcomed the announcement but slammed ongoing delays to the recovery process.
“It is good to see recognition of the pressure our farmers and small businesses have been under, and this investment should
GLITZY GALA
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with spicy barbecue sauce.
The exhibition was officially opened by NSW Speaker and MLA Greg Piper.
Judges for the sculpture competition came from opposite ends of the country.
Loretta Morton OAM has been Director of Newcastle Art Gallery for over 10
years, while award-winning sculptor Johannes Pannekoek flew from Western Australia to join her in identifying winning works.
Together with Sculpture On The Farm’s Curator Philippa Graham OAM, they announced and presented the prizes for 2025.
Philippa Graham spoke of Sculpture On The Farm’s
mean support is rolled out more quickly to the people who need it most,” he said.
“But why has it taken 100 days and relentless pressure for them to act?
“So far, just 23 percent of applications have been approved. That’s not support, that’s red tape.”
Mr Kemp, who is based in Kempsey, said farmers and small business owners are being forced to “jump through endless hoops” due to issues with the application process system.
“[They are] reapplying multiple times, resending the same documents four or five times, only to have them bounce back again.
“Instead of getting help, they’ve been caught in a bureaucratic merry-go-round that has delivered nothing but stress and left people feeling abandoned.”
The State Government claims it has improved the application experience in the past month, making it easier to upload documents and images, especially larger
gratitude to the original sponsor, philanthropist Tracy Norman.
She also mentioned that grants from the Federal and State governments, and Dungog Shire Council, have made the show possible.
Her effusive praise for the local “sensational” volunteers was greeted with applause.
The prize winners were also obviously delighted.
The major $20,000 acquisitive prize went to Stephen Coburn’s work, “Big
sized files.
“Another improvement has been to provide an easyto-use guide that contains ‘application tips’ to support primary producers through the application process,” the government said in a statement.
NSW Farmers Oyster Committee Chair Brandon Armstrong said disaster assistance had been far too long coming for many farming
Yellow Taxi”.
It will be donated to the Dungog Common, where 2025’s Sculpture On The Farm was held for the first time.
The Dr Clinton Ng Artistic Excellence Prize of $10,000 went to Anton McMurray’s
families in the Hunter and on the Mid North Coast.
“Be it dairy and beef farmers, or oyster growers, or anyone in between, the impacts of successive flood and storm events in NSW have been no less than catastrophic, and there’s a long road to recovery still ahead,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Our farming families have waited long enough, and it’s time disaster assistance
“The First Agreement“.
As well as contributing to sculpture transport and photography, and shuttle buses for the exhibition, Dungog Shire Council gave $1000 for the Local Dungog Artist Prize.
gets to where it’s needed, so farmers can get back on their feet.
“Fodder, freight, cleanup and a long list of other costs are bearing down heavily on the farming families who have been affected by these events, and the process to apply for disaster assistance has been complex, slow and difficult for many.”
To apply for assistance: www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
It was won by Jo Simpson with “Boromean Bones“. In her acceptance speech, Jo said that she has lived in the area for two years and it is “her heart and soul”.
To complete the Gala evening, one sculptor even made a marriage proposal… and was accepted.
q Member for Oxley Michael Kemp discusses flood recovery with Premier Chris Minns and NSW Nationals leader Dugald Saunders in May. Photo: Michael Kemp FB.
q Guests walk the red carpet into the James Theatre.
q Bruce Pussell, locals Martyn Robinson and Lynne McNairn, and sculptor Sally Robinson.
New police for the Hunter
PORT Stephens Hunter Police District welcomed seven new probationary constables last week, who will be stationed at Maitland and Port Stephens police stations.
The new recruits were officially welcomed into the NSW Police Force at the Goulburn Police Academy last month.
The class of 314 officers was the largest in 13 years, delivering a significant boost to frontline policing across the state.
The seven new officers began duties in Maitland
last Monday and will now undertake 12 months of on-the-job training as probationary constables.
“I welcome our new probationary constables to Port Stephens, thank them for their dedication to keeping our community safe and wish them well in their careers,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.
“These new recruits will make a real difference on the ground in Port Stephens.”
Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison said the new recruits will play an important role in delivering
A NEW National Youth Parliament program has been launched, designed to inspire greater civic participation among Year 10 students across Australia.
“safer streets and stronger communities” in the Hunter.
“I’m grateful for their decision to put on the uniform and dedicate themselves to serving and protecting the people of Maitland and the wider command.
”I was so pleased to hear that many of the recruits are from the Hunter region, and following their training have returned home for placement.
“I look forward to supporting them in their work and seeing the contribution they’ll make to our community.”
Students aged 16–17 are invited to apply for a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to represent their federal electorate in an immersive five-day parliamentary experience in Canberra.
One student from each of Australia’s 150 electorates will be selected to take part, offering them a firsthand look at life as a Member of Parliament.
“This is an exciting and empowering program for young people in our community,” Member for Lyne Alison Penfold said.
'Bullied and exploited': dying man lashes energy group Applications open for National Youth Parliament
By Farid FARID, AAP
A MAJOR powerline project has caused distress and heartache for Hunter locals, prompting allegations of exploitation and bullying.
The 100 kilometre Hunter Transmission Project on the NSW east coast will include 500-kilovolt above-ground transmission lines between Bayswater Power Station and a proposed switching station at Olney, near Eraring Power Station.
JOIN ME...
Some residents are set to lose their homes while others will have to give up portions of their properties.
For Hunter Valley film director Ian Barry, diagnosed with debilitating motor neuron disease, and his wife Vicki the project has caused heartache dealing with bureaucrats and lawyers.
He alleges EnergyCo, the state's renewable energy authority, trespassed on his
property and is not offering fair compensation for its acquisition.
More embarrassment ensued when Energy Minister Penny Sharpe admitted, during a budget estimates hearing, his case was used as a recruitment tool to screen applicants by the authority.
An agitated Mr Barry said he felt bullied by the authority for his disability and the latest episode reflects a body that was egregious in its conduct.
"I feel very used. I feel I've been exploited as a bit of a side show act," he told AAP.
October 25th from 10-12noon at the CWA Hall 199 Dowling St, Dungog NSW 2420 (along with) (along with)
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“It’s a chance for students to step into the shoes of an MP, learn how Parliament works and how everyday people help shape the laws that affect us all.
“When I was in Year 10 at St Clare’s in Taree, I would have jumped at this opportunity, so I really hope many do.
“There is so much to parliament and politics for young people.”
During the week-long program, participants –known as Youth Members – will explore the intricacies
of parliamentary procedure, including how laws are made, how bills are introduced and debated, and what it takes to represent a community on the national stage.
“I strongly encourage all eligible schools and students in the Lyne electorate to get involved and give it a go,” Ms Penfold said.
“My office will be reaching out to local schools to ensure they have all the information and resources needed to guide students through the application process.”
Expressions of Interest
(EOIs) for the National Youth Parliament opened on Monday 25 August and will remain open for a limited time.
“I look forward to meeting our region’s Youth Member and supporting them as they represent the voice of young people from our region on the national stage in Canberra.”
For more information or to submit an EOI, students, parents and schools can visit www.nyp.houseof representatives.gov.au
"The entire culture of EnergyCo is a law unto itself."
NSW Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party MP Mark Banasiak said it was problematic and symptomatic of a consultation process gone wrong.
"My concern is if they're going to do this to a man who's got the final stages of motor neurone disease, how are they going to treat other able-bodied people?"
Ms Sharpe agreed saying "people should be treated with respect through this process."
EnergyCO chief executive Hannah McCaughey said it was "an error of judgement".
Mr Barry's lawyers wrote to the authority detailing how protracted negotiations for his 128-acre Cedar Creek property had adversely impacted his terminal illness.
"The process to date has taken a considerable toll on Mr Barry's health and has demonstrably exacerbated
his motor neurone disease which has placed undue strain on both Mr and Mrs Barry," documents seen by AAP said.
Country mayors have estimated that up to four in five rural councils are impacted in some way by the construction and operation of renewable energy generators.
They have also highlighted that solar and wind projects in particular, generate an economic "sugar hit" during the construction phase but few local jobs afterwards. The development and construction capital cost of the Hunter-Central Coast infrastructure project is estimated to be about $600 million.
q Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison welcomed the new recruits at Maitland Police Station.
q The program is designed to inspire greater civic participation among Year 10 students across Australia.
q Film director Ian Barry says EnergyCo is not offering fair compensation for acquiring his property. Photo: supplied/AAP.
By Sis HIGGINS
HUNTER region residents are being urged to stay alert as cyber criminals step up efforts to recruit so-called “money mules” through social media, fake job offers and online scams.
NGM Group, the parent company of Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent, has reported a 20 percent rise in fraudulent online account openings, with criminals attempting to buy or rent bank accounts to launder stolen or illegal funds.
Craig Hollingsworth, Head of Financial Crime Operations at NGM Group, said offenders are targeting vulnerable people with promises of quick cash, sometimes offering a few hundred dollars simply
for opening an account in their name.
He warned that while many victims may not realise what they are getting involved in, the activity is both serious and illegal.
More than 400 attempts were made in July to open fraudulent accounts with Newcastle Permanent.
While banks have strong processes to detect and stop fraud, Hollingsworth said criminals will simply move to another institution when blocked, making public awareness vital.
Warning signs include offers of money to open a bank account or handover account details, being paid to move money that does not belong to you, pressure to act quickly without explanation,
and job opportunities that have no legitimate business behind them.
The consequences can be severe.
People caught acting as money mules may face a criminal record, closed bank accounts, restricted access to financial services, debt if stolen funds are spent, and even police charges or prison time.
“Your bank account is your identity, it’s not a product to rent out or hand over,” Hollingsworth said.
“If it feels dodgy, it probably is.”
Hollingsworth urged locals to trust their instincts and walk away from anything that seems suspicious.
Scams Awareness Week runs from 25 to 29 August.
THE Premier and Minister for Regional NSW will convene an advisory group to address the challenges faced by people living and working in regional, rural and remote areas of the state.
Announced at the 2025 Bush Summit, the NSW Premier’s “Rural, Remote & Regional Advisory Council” (PRRRAC) will meet twice annually with Premier Chris Minns and Minister Tara Moriarty.
The first council meeting is set to take place this year and will bring together representatives from across the regions to provide direct advice and insights on issues impacting their communities, from essential services and key infrastructure to biosecurity.
An invitation has been extended to NSW Country Mayor’s Association Chair Rick Firman, the Chair of NSW Regional Cities, and representatives from the Local Land Services, Country Women’s Association, regional health and education sectors, Indigenous councils, and business communities.
“We want to work with
regional communities to find solutions that really meet their needs and will make a difference,” Premier Minns said.
“We are committed to delivering regional communities their fair share and this group means we can ensure our responses are targeted, effective and inline with the realities of regional life.”
Chair of the Country Mayors Association and Mayor of Temora, Rick Firman said “only positive things can come from this initiative”.
“Premier Minns was receptive to the proposal when we put this to him personally,” he said.
“We will share the challenges with suggested solutions, we will have government policy proposals bounced off us and give genuine feedback and we will also share the countless inspiring initiatives that occur in our cherished rural, remote and regional communities which may be replicated across our great state.”
The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW President Tanya Jolly said the advisory panel is a “step
in the right direction”.
“We welcome the chance to be part of this group to put forward the issues our members are telling us are impacting their communities and the quality of life of residents in those areas,” she said.
“But it needs to be more than just words – we have to see the insights this group is providing be taken forward by the NSW Government and acted on.
“And the issues from our perspective are very clear.”
Ms Jolly said the CWA would be highlighting the declining level of health services in many areas, land use and planning regulations, lack of affordable housing and the state of telecommunications.
“What we hear often is that so many country residents feel like they’re not being listened to by government and their concerns are being relegated to the ‘too hard’ basket.
“In 2025 our regions deserve better, and the people who live there should be able to expect reasonable access to quality services, and workable infrastructure,” Ms Jolly said.
q CWA of NSW President Tanya Jolly said the advisory panel is a ‘step in the right direction’.
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR
ABC TV, 8pm
A sizzling summer soundscape and cinematography turn up the heat in this superb Aussie mystery, which has just two chapters left. In Sunday’s penultimate episode, Isabelle (Teresa Palmer, pictured) turns her attention to neighbour Barb (Catherine McClements). After offering to babysit for Essie (Philippa Northeast) and Ben (Tane Williams-Accra), Isabelle takes the opportunity to search Barb’s house for answers – but at the same time, Ange (Bella Heathcote) is rifling through hers. Both women make discoveries that set the stage for a bombshell finale next week.
FRIDAY, September 5
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh visits a poppy-filled paradise.
8.35 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T investigates a girl’s disappearance.
9.25 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
9.55 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 Austin. (PG, R)
11.20 Silent Witness. (Malv, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.35 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
MONDAY
THE AMAZING RACE AUSTRALIA: CELEBRITY EDITION
TEN, 7.30pm
Thirteen teams of celebrities and their loved ones meet host Beau Ryan at the top of the world – that is, the Shanti Stupa temple in Pohkara, Nepal – but they won’t be there for long. The most amazing experience of their lives awaits, but so do some seriously challenging tasks that will put their dearest relationships to the test. It’s especially fun to see how famous parents fare under pressure. Lindy Klim, Brendan Fevola and Gretel Killeen are participating with their respective daughters, Stella (pictured right, with mum Lindy), Leni and Epiphany. Humour, honesty and butting of heads are sure to ensue.
WEDNESDAY CODE OF SILENCE
This compelling British crime thriller not only expertly draws viewers into the high-stakes world of undercover police work but also provides an authentic glimpse into the lived experience of the deaf community. Rose Ayling-Ellis (pictured) plays Alison Brooks, a hearingimpaired canteen worker who is recruited by detectives for a covert operation because of her exceptional ability to read lips. As she helps surveil a criminal gang planning a robbery, Alison is soon swept up by the thrill of her increasingly dangerous job. However, things get even more complicated when she begins to fall for Liam (Kieron Moore), a soulful hacker who’s helping the crooks pull off their jewel heist.
7.35 The Good Ship Murder. (PGv)
8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. (Premiere)
9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PG)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (Manv)
11.40 Pray For Blood. (Mal, R)
1.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.20 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 2.50 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 3.55 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits an alpaca farm.
7.30 Football. AFL. Second qualifying final. Geelong v Brisbane Lions. From the MCG.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
1.35 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Sydney Roosters v South Sydney Rabbitohs.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Sydney Roosters versus South Sydney Rabbitohs match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Rush Hour 3. (2007, Msv, R) Lee and Carter try to protect a French woman. Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker.
12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) 8.30 The Brighter Side. (Return) A family tackles a no-spend challenge. 9.00 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Pete Helliar, Kitty Flanagan, Tim McDonald, Emma Holland and Sam Pang compete. Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 10.00
6.00
SATURDAY, September 6
Next Door. (Ml, R) Fran struggles with her husband’s depression.
10.50 I, Jack Wright. (Mlv, R) 11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10
Masks
6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45
6.50
And Aneeshwar Go
7.05 Do
7.20
7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids Baking Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys. (PGn)
8.30 A Royal Residence: Althorp House.
9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PGa, R)
10.15 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
2.35 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (PGaw, R)
3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Second qualifying final. Fremantle v Gold Coast Suns.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.
11.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
12.35 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) Georgina searches for answers.
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Canterbury Bulldogs v Cronulla Sharks.
9.25 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match.
10.00 MOVIE: American Assassin. (2017, MA15+lv, R)
12.05 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.00 Customs. (PG, R)
1.30 Rugby Union. Women’s Rugby World Cup. Pool A. Australia v England.
4.15 Garden Gurus Moments. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R)
7.30 Selling Houses Australia. Rob and Robyn try to sell their property in Penola. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A specialist critical care paramedic responds to a head-on collision that has left a driver trapped in their car. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (l, R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. (PGal, R) 11.30 FBI: International. (Ma, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am Morning Programs. 7.35 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 9.25 Funny Face. (1957) 11.20 Thelma And Louise: Born To Live. (2025) 12.25pm
SUNDAY, September 7
6.05 Growing Up Jewish.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Austin. (PG)
8.00 The Family Next Door. (Ml)
8.50 I, Jack Wright. (Mal) DCI Morgan’s investigation focuses in on the Wright family and their associates.
9.35 MOVIE: Sherpa. (2015, Mal, R) Looks at climbing Everest from the Sherpas’ point of view. Russell Brice.
11.10 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (Mal, R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Titanic: Secrets Of The Shipwreck. (Premiere, PG)
8.25 Titanic In Colour. (PGa, R)
9.20 Monster: The Mystery Of Loch Ness. (PG, R)
10.20 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Final, Mav, R)
12.40 Women Who Rock. (Ml, R)
2.45 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (R)
3.45 Hugh’s Wild West. (R)
4.50 China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger. 8.50 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.50 24 Hours In Police Custody: Frequent Flyers. (MA15+adl, R) Authorities search for a criminal couple. 10.50 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Buried Alive. (MA15+av, R)
12.00 Jamestown. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
Farsi) 9.55 The Movie Show. 10.30 Falling. (2020, M) 12.35pm 2.30 The Movie Show. Paperback Hero. (1999, PG) 4.50 A Great 6.35 The Secret Garden. Scrapper. (2023, PG) 10.00 Bob 11.55 Late Programs.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.35 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.35 9News Late. 10.05 A Killer Makes A Call: A Killer In Accounts. (MA15+av) 11.05
Fishing Australia. (R)
Today Early News.
6.00
MONDAY, September 8
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes.
8.35 Portillo In The Pyrenees. (PGav, R)
9.30 Moulin Rouge: Yes
We Can-Can! (Mn, R)
10.35 SBS News.
11.05 Classified. (MA15+v) 11.55 Tokyo Vice. (MA15+asv, R) 2.15 Blackport. (MA15+av, R)
3.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 3.50 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 4.25 Curious Traveller. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Contraption Masters. 9.25 The Crystal Maze. 10.15 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Scrapper. (2023, PG) 10.00
White Tiger. (2012, M, Russian) Noon Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow. (1963, M, Italian) 2.10 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 4.00 Sunflower. (1970, PG, Italian) 6.00 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 7.50 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.30 Darkland. (2017, MA15+, Danish) 11.35 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, September 9
10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Four Corners. (R) 12.00 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.15 Hawke: The Larrikin And The Leader. (Final, PG, R) 1.15 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 2.05 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Secret World Of Snacks. (R) 11.25 Screw. (Premiere, Mals) 1.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.05 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGaw, R) 2.40 Hugh’s Wild West. (PG, R) 3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) The competition heads to Adelaide. 9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Following his stint at the LAPD, Evers returns to the DA’s office where his past connects him to the investigation. 10.05 S.W.A.T. (Mv) The team hunts down a Chilean arms dealer. 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 Hooten & The Lady. (Mav)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) The competition continues in Logan, Queensland. 9.00 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv) Alice investigates her dog’s murder. 10.00 Tik Tok: Murders Gone Viral: The Killing Of Sania Khan. (Malv, R)
11.00 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.00 Fairly Legal. (Mav, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
The Block. (PGl)
Opal Hunters: Red Dirt Road Trip. (PGal)
Murder In The Family. (MA15+al, R)
MOVIES (32)
6am Sunflower. (1970, PG, Italian) 8.05 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.00 Bob Trevino Likes It. (2024, M) 11.50 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 1.25pm Scrapper. (2023, PG) 2.55 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 4.45 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 7.30 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 10.55 Darkland: The Return. (2023, MA15+, Danish) 1.05am Speed Kills. (2018, M) 3.00 Late Programs.
Start your day with coffee and brekky from 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, and great hospitality all day. Open Tuesday to Sunday for good food, drinks, functions and live music. And the place to stay for
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51)
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9GO! (83)
WEDNESDAY, September 10
TV (2)
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.50 Soccer. 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifier. Ecuador v Argentina. 11.00 WorldWatch. 11.25 Always Listening. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 16. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 James May: Our Man In India. (PG)
8.30 DNA Journey. (Ml)
9.35 Code Of Silence. (Premiere, MA15+)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 COBRA. (Mal)
11.50 Vigil. (Mal, R)
2.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.50 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PG, R) 3.20 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Glassworker. Continued. (2024, PG, Urdu) 7.25
All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 10.15
The Great Spirit. (2019, M, Italian) 12.20pm Full Time. (2021, M, French) 1.55 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 3.45 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 5.35 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 7.30 Death In Brunswick. (1991, M) 9.30 Lansky. (2021, MA15+) 11.45 No Man Of God. (2021, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, September 11
TV (2)
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Back Roads. (R) 11.00 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (Ml, R) 11.35 If You’re Listening. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R) 1.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.55 The Mysterious Benedict Society.
(3)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGa)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hamish McLachlan sits down with former West Coast Eagles champion Jeremy McGovern.
10.15 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. (PG)
11.15 Chicago Fire. (Return, Mav) 12.15 Imposters. (Madlsv, R)
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 Morning Programs. 11.30 This Man’s Worth. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGavw, R) 2.55 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 17. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 9/11: One Day In America. (Premiere)
9.10 Rock Legends: David Bowie. (PG, R)
9.40 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Dopesick. (MA15+ad, R)
12.10 Blue Lights. (Malv, R)
2.10 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 3.00 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGav, R) 3.30 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 Clarkson’s Farm. (Ml) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
10.50 9News Late.
11.20 Damian Lewis: Spy Wars. (Mv, R) 12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.10 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 8.00 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 10.05 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 1.30pm The Movie Show. 2.05 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 4.55 The Movie Show. 5.30 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 7.25 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988, PG) 9.30 Goodfellas. (1990, MA15+) 12.15am All The Old Knives. (2022, MA15+) 2.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG) Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson.
9.30 Why Trains Crash. (PGa) Takes a look at a train crash in India.
10.40 What The Killer Did Next. (Mav, R) 11.40 Kick Ons.
12.10 Life. (Malsv, R) 1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
(64) 7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current
ABC FAMILY (22)
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9GO! (83)
In Memory
06/09/66 - 18/01/23
CINDY LEE GORTON
Seasons have come and gone, but the cherished seasons we shared together lovingly linger on.
Love you to the moon and back.
Dungog Shire & Gloucester District News Of The Area newsofthearea.com.au
For Sale
WHITE 6 drawer chest of drawers, GC, $50 Teac JC12 digital stereo hi-fi system, still in box $100. White half pantry cupboard with shelves VGC $50. 0434 521 457
BBQ 4 burner with side burner & rotisserie cover gas bottle $50 0428 856 939
COCA-COLA
Memorabilia Collection $95. 0409 863 898 F020725ALL
COFFEE table, lovely walnut with 3 drawers $100 ono 0448 521 466 F190625
COLLECTERS editions empty Chivas Salute Whisky porcelain flagons with velvet covers and boxes. Make an offer. 4981 2713 F190625
DOUBLE Pine Bed w/good mattress. $100 4982 0063
CLASSIFIEDS 4981 8882
SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique. Make an offer. 4982 3495
SOLAR hot water panels 300L $85 0487 239 157
STAND Up Paddle board, Kings inflatable Located in HN. $99.00 Call 0493 078
WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643
2010 Ford Falcon LPG Very good condition $6,500. 0431 607 774
Black leather, ladies, GUC 2 pairs available, $25 per pair: 1 x Dublin 36 (EU) / 5 (AU), 1x Dublin 37.5 (EU) / 6.5 (AU) Dungog area. 0425 334 153
VINTAGE cameras Offers accepted. 4982 8787
CLASSIFIEDS 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea. com.au
SUBARU Liberty 1991, AWD, 5 spd manual, cruise control 300,330kms.One owner/driver from new regular serviced. $7500 Medowie 4982 9942
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $7,800. 0415 678 687
News Of The Area OPINION
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
DEAR Jasminda, HOW do I get my kids to pick up after themselves?
It seems so simple, and yet we follow a continual pattern of them being told to pick up, falling back into bad habits, me getting annoyed and doing it for them, and returning to the beginning again. It's driving me crazy.
Gabrielle W.
Dear Gabrielle,
It appears that you are doing the Tidy Up Barn Dance with your kids, but they don't know the moves and have instead created a sub-par alternative, a bit like when Raygun took on the hip-hop scene and thought some kangaroo hops and something called 'The Sprinkler' would cut it.
Perhaps, much like a barndance, you need to show your kids how to be respectful and responsible through smaller steps instead of just yelling, 'Clean up your pigsty'.
You could even turn it into a song: Get up early, make your bed / Clothes away or you won't be fed / Have a shower, eat some toast / unpack dishes from last night's roast / hang your towel out in the sun / you'll miss the bus if you don't run / wait a minute, lower that brow / do-sido your partner now.
And so on.
This will either motivate your kids or drive them stark raving mad.
Either way it's a win-win for you. They will do their chores happily, or they'll do them just to prevent you from singing cheesy songs complete with dips 'n dives and petronella performances up and down the hallway and around the (now spotless) living room floor.
Give it a go, Gabrielle.
I'm keen to hear how you get on.
Tweeters - 1 Sogoe = goose, 2 canout
Kids Boot Camp 048
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
Have your say on Hunter Transmission Project
HUNTER residents are encouraged to have their say on the Hunter Transmission Project’s environmental impact statement (EIS), which is now on public display and open for submissions.
EnergyCo lodged the EIS with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure last week, which will be on public exhibition until 5pm on Wednesday 24 September.
According to EnergyCo, the Hunter Transmission Project will provide a missing link in the electricity network and help unlock the supply of electricity from the Central-West Orana and New England Renewable Energy
Zones.
It involves building a new overhead 500 kilovolt (kV) transmission line of around 100 kilometres between Bayswater in the Upper Hunter and Olney in the Lower Hunter to connect the state’s existing 500 kV transmission lines.
The EIS assesses the environmental, social and economic impacts and opportunities of the project.
It also outlines how impacts will be avoided, minimised or managed.
Project Director Peter Redwin said the Hunter Transmission Project is a “vital part of NSW’s plan to secure our energy future”.
“The release of the EIS marks an
important step in planning and delivering infrastructure that will ensure a reliable, affordable and clean energy future,” he said.
“This milestone is the result of more than two years of detailed planning and extensive community consultation to ensure the project is delivered in a way that minimises impacts and maximises benefits for the local community.
“I encourage the community, landholders and stakeholders to review the EIS, understand the project and provide their feedback.”
To view the EIS and make a submission, visit www.planningportal. nsw.gov.au.
Changes to government payments and deeming rates
A NUMBER of changes to social security payments, rates, and limits will commence from 20 September 2025.
People receiving the full single rate of Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or Carer Payment will see a $29.70 boost to their fortnightly payment.
People receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance, JobSeeker, ABSTUDY (aged 22 and over), and Parenting Payment will also see an increase to their payment.
Some recipients with financial assets, including
part-rate pensioners, can expect to see changes to their payments from changes to deeming rates.
Deeming rates are used to calculate income from financial assets and are based on the principle that these assets provide a source of income for recipients.
“Deeming rates were frozen at artificially low levels as an emergency COVID-19 measure and the Albanese Government extended the freeze to help shield age pensioners and other income support recipients while the economy recovered,” the Federal Government said in a
statement.
“Social security recipients impacted by deeming rates saved around $1.8 billion as a result.”
From 20 September, a deeming rate of 0.75 percent will apply to financial assets under $64,200 for singles and $106,200 for couples combined.
Assets over this amount will be deemed at a rate of 2.75 percent.
Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold said the change to deeming rates comes with little warning and leaves many older Australians in the dark.
“A lot of pensioners are just trying to keep up with the basics – power bills, groceries, rent,” Ms Penfold
said.
“Changing the rules with hardly any notice makes it even harder for people to budget and plan.
“These Australians aren’t a line item in the budget – they’re real people who’ve worked hard, raised families, and supported their communities,” she said.
“They deserve better.”
Ms Penfold said the policy shift ignores the reality for people on fixed incomes.
“Just because inflation is easing on paper doesn’t mean life is getting cheaper,” she said.
“The cost of food, rent and essential services is still climbing – and this change makes it even harder for people to get by.”
Lack of interest in caravan park project
COUNCIL has concluded its second Expression of Interest (EOI) process in four years for the proposed Dungog Holiday and Caravan Park Project, determining that the two submissions received unfortunately did not meet the selection criteria outlined in the EOI. Council will now review options for the identified sites through its Strategic
Consultation to begin on illegal tobacco offences for landlords
THE NSW Government has begun consultation on potential offences for landlords who knowingly lease premises to retailers selling illicit tobacco and illegal vapes.
The consultation includes engagement with landlord representatives, retailers, health advocates, partner government agencies and other key stakeholders.
The outcomes of the consultation will be reviewed by the Government’s crossagency NSW Illicit Tobacco Taskforce in the coming months.
Minister for Health Ryan
Park said while the vast majority of retail landlords are following the law, there are “bad actors out there aiding the proliferation of these outlets pushing illegal tobacco and vapes into our suburbs”.
“The feedback I’ve received from small business, landlords and the broader community is that there is a real opportunity to smash illegal tobacconists through the people who knowingly let them trade,” he said.
This consultation builds on recent reforms that target the illicit tobacco and illegal vaping market, including the
Tobacco Legislation (Closure Orders) Amendment Bill 2025, introduced to NSW Parliament on 6 August.
These proposed new laws, expected to be debated in September, introduce substantial penalties and new offences, including:
• a new offence for the possessing a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and seven years imprisonment;
• new penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and seven years imprisonment;
• the introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco without a licence;
• new offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premises;
• new lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in place; and
• new offences for falsely claiming to be licensed,
resisting seizure, and attempting to retake seized products.
The NSW Government also recently announced it will establish a dedicated enforcement unit to strengthen compliance and enforcement of tobacco and vaping laws across NSW.
The Centre for Regulation and Enforcement in NSW Health comprises a statewide team of 48 full-time equivalent staff, including enforcement officers, policy, and project officers.
These staff will operate across metropolitan, rural, and remote locations
Property Program and the development of the Dungog Structure Plan, which forms part of the broader Shire-wide Housing and Infrastructure Master Plan. Council also confirmed its intention to continue engaging with community groups to explore opportunities for alternative community benefit uses at the Abbots Flat site in line with the Recreation and Open Space Strategy.
to ensure a consistent, calibrated, and effective compliance approach.
The Centre will continue to work with the Illicit Tobacco Taskforce to develop options and recommendations to strengthen compliance and enforcement activities in NSW to reduce the availability of illegal tobacco in the community.
From 1 July 2025 – 24 August 2025, NSW Health Inspectors conducted 201 retailer inspections across 12 local health districts, seizing:
• over 28,000 vaping products and 4,300 nicotine pouches with an estimated street value of around $990,000.
• over 2.3 million cigarettes and 365kg of other illicit tobacco products, with an estimated street value of over $2.5 million.
q A map of the preliminary corridor of the Hunter Transmission Project.
New Code of Meeting Practice for local councils
A NEW Model Code of Meeting Practice for local councils has been released and will come into effect from 1 January 2026.
All councils will need to adopt a code of meeting practice that contains the mandatory provisions of the updated Model Meeting Code by 31 December 2025.
Key changes to the Model
Code of Meeting Practice include:
• Preventing councils from holding private councillor briefing sessions to discuss matters that should be considered in the public domain at committee and council meetings (unless they are confidential);
• Encouraging councils to hold public forums
preferably before committee meetings, or if they choose council meetings, to enable community engagement in local matters;
• Expanding the powers of the mayor to remove councillors from meetings for acts of disorder;
• Expanding the powers of the mayor to remove members of the public if they
Life without laundry: How astronauts survive in space
By Dave RENEKE, Astronomer
SPARE a thought for the astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
They may float 400 kilometres above Earth at 28,000 km/h, eating their dinner out of pouches while gazing down at the swirling blue planet below - but they have one very down-to-earth problem: laundry.
Or rather, the complete lack of it.
That’s right. There is no laundry in space.
Not a single washing machine, not even a humble clothesline flapping in the solar breeze.
Water is far too precious to waste on a pair of socks, and detergent? Forget it.
Every drop of water aboard the ISS is recycledincluding, yes, the astronauts’ own… contributions.
NASA calls it “yesterday’s coffee into tomorrow’s coffee.”
It’s a closed system.
So, the idea of pouring a few litres into a machine to wash gym shorts is, well, laughable.
Instead, astronauts wear their clothes - t-shirts, shorts, undies - over and over until they become too smelly or stiff to tolerate.
Then the clothes are bundled into waste capsules, like Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus or Russia’s Progress spacecraft. These trash ships eventually detach from the station and re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, where they burn up in a spectacular, if slightly pungent, fireball.
So, somewhere high above your head, last year’s astronaut underwear probably blazed a trail of glory before disappearing forever.
Of course, this raises the obvious question: what about hygiene?
If they’re not washing their clothes, how do
disrupt council meetings;
• Requiring information considered at closed meetings to be made public after it ceases to be confidential;
• Requiring councils to give reasons when making decisions on planning matters that depart from staff recommendations (as recommended by ICAC);
• Promoting neutrality in the role of the general manager;
• Requiring council and committee meetings to be live streamed to give the community and media access to council decision making, and to require those videos to be public for at least the rest of the council term, or 12 months in the case of a meeting in an election year.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “These changes should ensure that, in a council chamber or committee meeting, mechanisms are in place to prevent the derailing of meetings and overshadow the important work of local government.
“Under the new code, mayors should be given the power to take immediate action against disorderly councillors.
“This should lessen the need for councils to resort to the broken code of conduct process and instead address misbehaviour immediately in the council chamber.
“I know not everyone will agree with these changes, but most people in this state would agree action is necessary to improve transparency, increase community confidence and faith in local government.
“They will make councillors more visibly in control of their councils to ensure they – as democratically elected representatives of their communities – drive the vision for their local area.”
The changes to the Meeting Code are part of a broader suite of reforms by the State Government.
A new Code of Conduct for councillors is being finalised as well as associated legislative changes, which will see significant changes to how misconduct is dealt with in local government.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller said the sector supported moves to improve probity and process in all spheres of government.
“We acknowledge the intent of the NSW Local Government Minister in his aim to seek to raise the level of respect for councils both in the community and in the chamber,” Mayor Miller said.
“We’ve had the opportunity, along with councils, to provide feedback on the drafting of the model code and are now working
through the details of the Minister’s new code to understand its application in the sector,” she said.
LGNSW last year responded to the Office of Local Government’s (OLG) discussion paper with a submission following extensive consultation with member councils, county councils and joint organisations.
While acknowledging the new code, Mayor Miller said LGNSW remained disappointed with the Minister’s decision to prohibit briefing sessions for elected council representatives.
“Councillors are elected to make informed decisions on behalf of their communities,” she said.
“Briefing sessions are not decision-making forums – they simply ensure councillors are properly equipped with the background and technical information they need before a matter comes to the public chamber.
“These briefings lead to better informed representatives and, ultimately, better decisionmaking outcomes for communities, but decisions are – and always will be –made transparently in council meetings, in full view of the public.”
astronauts wash themselves?
The answer is: very carefully.
With no showers or bathtubs in orbit, crew members rely on rinse-less wipes and no-rinse body wash - basically glorified baby wipes - to stay fresh.
Hair washing? A norinse, waterless shampoo that would make any music festival camper nod in approval.
And the laundry issue is only half the story.
Astronauts also wear special nappies - politely called “Maximum Absorbency Garments” - during spacewalks.
A spacewalk can last up to eight hours, and once you’re zipped inside that milliondollar spacesuit, bathroom breaks are not on the agenda.
These nappies are technological marvels, far removed from anything you’d buy at the local chemist, but still, the principle is the same.
You go, it absorbs, you
carry on fixing the solar panels.
The surprise for many is how long a single set of clothes lasts.
A t-shirt might survive a week of workouts before being jettisoned to its fiery doom.
Socks? Maybe a little longer.
Underwear? NASA, in its infinite wisdom, leaves that decision to the wearer’s… discretion.
But here’s the kicker: scientists are now developing clothes that kill bacteria on contact or don’t smell at all,
fabrics that could be worn for months without washing.
It’s all part of preparing for longer missions - to Mars, for example - where you can’t just toss your dirty laundry into the atmosphere.
Until then, astronauts will keep re-wearing, keep wiping down, and keep tossing their used clothes into the cosmic incinerator.
Space travel may be glamorous, but sometimes it stinks - literally.
You’re probably wondering about number ones and twos?
On the ISS, going to the
loo is less “sit and relax” and more “strap in and aim carefully”.
Astronauts on the International Space Station use specially designed toilets with foot straps and thigh bars to stay in place. Urine is collected by a hose with gentle suction and processed into drinking water.
Solid waste goes into a small, lined container, sealed, and stored for disposal on cargo ships.
Everything relies on airflow, not gravity, to keep things tidy in microgravity conditions.
q Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig has released a new Model Code of Meeting Practice for local councils.
Elizabeth Crouch AM appointed as Hunter Water chair
ELIZABETH Crouch AM has been announced as Chair of the Hunter Water Board of Directors for a three-year term.
In a statement to media, Hunter Water said that Ms Crouch brings extensive experience across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors, with a distinguished career in governance, infrastructure and public policy.
She currently chairs the boards of the Customer Owned Banking Association, the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, Hearing Australia, Ochre Health and Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd, and is the Emerita Deputy Chancellor of
Macquarie University. She also serves on the boards of the University of Newcastle and the NSW Institute of Sport and has been a Non-Executive Director of Hunter Water since April 2024.
Minister for Water Rose Jackson welcomed the appointment.
“Elizabeth Crouch is an outstanding appointment as Chair of Hunter Water,” she said.
“With her at the helm, Hunter Water is wellpositioned to build on its strong foundations and continue delivering highquality services and water solutions for the region.”
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary said Ms Crouch’s credentials “speak for themselves”.
“Her leadership across
major infrastructure projects, including the OPAL transport network, and her governance expertise will be instrumental as Hunter Water continues to deliver essential services and plans for the future of our region.”
Ms Crouch said she was honoured to take on the role.
“As a member of the Hunter community, it’s a privilege to be appointed Chair of Hunter Water at such a pivotal time. I look forward to continuing to work with the Board, management team and stakeholders to support sustainable growth and ensure the delivery of safe, reliable water services to the community.”
Ms Crouch holds a Bachelor of Economics and a Master of Cyber Security, is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company
Directors and a member of Chief Executive Women. She was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2019 for her services to higher education and transport.
Hunter Water also acknowledged the exceptional service of Geoff Crowe, who served as Chair for a 12-month period to 24 June 2025.
“Geoff’s steady leadership and deep understanding of the region were pivotal during Hunter Water’s recent IPART pricing proposal process, and he played a key role in strengthening engagement with stakeholders, customers and the broader community,” the organisation said in a statement.
“Geoff is highly respected across the organisation and the region, and we are pleased he will continue to contribute his expertise as a Non-Executive Director on the Board.”
Australians warned to pay attention to superannuation
By Thomas O’KEEFE
MILLIONS of Australians are putting their superannuation at risk by not following-through with proper, and legally binding, beneficiary paperwork, according to a nation-wide survey.
Research cond-ucted by Super Consumers Australia, an advocate for people on low and middle incomes in Australia’s superannuation system, shows that more than one in three Australians with super say they haven’t properly defined their fund’s ‘death benefit nominations’, telling their super fund who should receive their money when they die.
Just one in four have successfully made a binding death benefit nomination.
These numbers mean that over 6.5 million Australians risk
long delays for their loved ones, with the possibility the money may not be distributed according to their wishes, even if it is stated in their wills.
“The fact that so many Australian families are facing this uncertainty is a red flag; this is a system that’s too hard to understand and navigate,” said Xavier O’Halloran, CEO of Super Consumers Australia.
“Without a valid binding nomination, funds have to decide who your money goes to, which leaves families in limbo, sometimes waiting months or years to access money they are entitled to, and it’s not good enough.”
Super Consumers warns that many Australians believe they’ve secured their wishes with a binding nomination, when in fact they may not have, or it may have
competition.
Victory was a sweet moment for the Jets, whose future had appeared in doubt on multiple occasions over the past year.
"Personally, I'm extremely happy for the club," Milligan told Paramount Plus.
expired.
The current system can be difficult to navigate, mainly due to each superannuation fund laying out its own rules, often using confusing terminology, including ‘binding’ vs ‘non-binding’, ‘lapsing’ vs ‘non-lapsing’, and ‘reversionary’.
Mr O’Halloran has called for a Federal Government review of how death benefits work in superannuation, focusing on consistency and avoiding potentially family-shattering arguments during probate actions.
“This is one of the basics that super funds should be getting right,” said Mr O’Halloran.
“People work their whole lives to build up their super and they should get to decide where it goes when they pass away.”
"It's been a long time since they've been in this position: semi-final win, going to a final.
"It's a very proud footballing town. We feel that support, and I want them to be excited by this."
Newcastle took the lead in the sixth minute when
q
Max Burgess mesmerised his defender with tricky footwork and whipped a delightful left-footed cross in to Xavier Bertoncello to head home.
Ten minutes later, Japanese star Kota Mizunuma coolly volleyed home a wicked cross from
Daniel Wilmering to double the Jets' lead.
Tevere hit back when he curled in a wonderful strike to the top corner in the 32nd minute, sending Avenger Park into raptures.
Avondale goalkeeper
Thomas Manos brilliantly denied Wilmering in the
37th minute.
Tevere smacked a golden chance into the crossbar in the 49th minute but soon made amends.
Wilmering was ruled to have brought down Kristian Trajceski and Tevere coolly buried the spot-kick to equalise.
Adams turned the contest back Newcastle's way when he received the ball out on the right and skipped past two defenders before dragging a shot inside the near post.
The Jets put the icing on the cake when Alexander Badolato slipped through Nunes to score in the 94th minute.
"Millsy (Milligan) instills a lot of belief in us, and you can see that with the young players coming through," Adams said.
"To get that last goal with so many young players on the field at the end, there's something special for this club.
"One more to go."
q Elizabeth Crouch AM.
Who will inherit your superannuation nest-egg… and are you sure?
q Newcastle have scraped past plucky Avondale FC to reach the Australia Cup final. Photo: Con Chronis/AAP
By Anna HARRINGTON, AAP
NEWCASTLE will have the chance to claim their first piece of silverware in 17 years after fighting past semi-professional Avondale FC 4-2 to reach the Australia Cup final.
In teeing up a final against another Victorian NPL club in Heidelberg United, who beat Auckland FC 2-0 on Saturday, the Jets continued their dream start to life under Socceroos great Mark Milligan. Newcastle led 2-0 after 16 minutes before Avondale got the game back on level footing through Luca Tevere's double.
But substitute Eli Adams' superb run and strike in the 75th minute proved enough to seal victory for Newcastle, before Alexandro Nunes added a fourth in injury-time.
It is the Jets' maiden Australia Cup final and their first decider since the 2017-18 grand final defeat to Melbourne Victory as they chase their first silverware since completing the premiership-championship in 2007-08.
CONTINUED Page 15
q Newcastle have scraped past plucky Avondale FC to reach the Australia Cup final. Photo: Con Chronis/AAP