Joint training for SES and RFS volunteers
By Thomas O’KEEFE
Stroud
“Practical learning experiences get members on the
to see what really
and twice a year Stroud SES gets together with other RFS brigades to practice,” Stroud SES Deputy Commander
TRANSPORT BOOST
special SES tool. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe.
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Farm fire vehicle scheme
FARMERS and rural landholders can now register to use Farm Firefighting Vehicles (FFVs) to respond to emergency bushfires near their property.
On Wednesday the NSW Government launched a conditional registration scheme to enable typically unregistered FFVs to be used legally and under the protection of insurance.
FFVs are commonly small trucks, utes or trailers with fixed water, pumps or fire management equipment, kept on farms to be rapidly deployed in the event of a fire.
The move follows two previous trials of around 350 FFVs.
The new scheme offers a lower cost conditional registration, which includes inspection for a light vehicle and the issuing of a licence plate expected to be a maximum of $209.
The cost for conditional registration will drop after the first year with the cost, including an inspection estimated at $126 (or $75 when inspection not required), subject to CPI and CTP increases.
Under the scheme, vehicles will be subject to the following requirements:
• Vehicle inspections as per the Authorised Inspection Scheme to establish registration, with inspection required every second year and registration to be renewed annually.
• Firefighting equipment must be permanently and securely attached to the vehicle.
• Vehicles must only be used for emergencies,
not regular operations.
• May use roads up to 50km away from garaging addresses east of the Newell Highway, with no distance limit from garaging addresses west of the Newell Highway.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “We know that in many regional areas, farmers are often the first on scene at bushfires.
“This change is about ensuring farmers and other road users are safe when they respond to bushfire emergencies.
“During the 20192020 bushfires, I spent a lot of time with farmers, tourism operators and other members of regional and rural communities who were so badly impacted by that catastrophic bushfire season.
“I heard firsthand stories of the heroism and bravery shown by farmers standing side by-side with our RFS and other emergency services to fight bushfires."
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Trent Curtin said the reform comes at a crucial time, with most of the state entering the Bush Fire Danger Period last week.
“Farmers know their land better than anyone, and when a fire starts nearby their quick action can make all the difference,” he said.
“This reform will continue the strong relationship between landholders and the RFS, leveraging all available resources and the expertise and dedication of farmers in safeguarding our communities.”
NSW Farmers’ President Xavier Martin
said the new scheme was progress on solving the problem facing farmer volunteers after years of advocacy.
“These vehicles are lightning quick at getting to fires and getting them under control – but it’s simply not practical to register these units when they’re primarily used on farm for just a few months each year,” Mr Martin said.
“A more reasonable method to conditionally register these units for their specific purpose, so they can be used legally and under the protection of third-party insurance, is much needed – and this is a step towards that.”
With farmers able to apply to register their units under the scheme from 7 October, Mr Martin said NSW Farmers would monitor the scheme to ensure it was fit-forpurpose for farmers across the state.
“There’s still conditions around distance, permanently attached firefighting equipment and vehicle inspections (including costs) that must be met as part of the scheme, so it’s certainly not a perfect solution, but this
is an important starting point after two trials,” Mr Martin said.
“It has taken a long time to get here and this scheme has got to work for our farmer volunteers, who are the ones that use these units to fight fires and protect not just their farms, but their communities too.”
While acknowledging the move, the NSW Nationals called out delays in implementing the scheme, saying the announcement came after “two years of sustained pressure by the Opposition”.
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services Gurmesh Singh said the “commonsense change” is a good start but more needs to be done to reduce red tape.
“There are still questions around some of the stringent guidelines,” he said.
“We don’t want a situation where people are being rejected for things like needing to have the equipment permanently attached, which might not be practical for a farmer in a day to day sense.”
“Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles tend to be used around the farm and not on public roads, which is why the conditional registration will be key to allow them to attend nearby fires, without the high cost of a full registration,” Mr Layzell said.
“Although the Government’s current plan has reduced that cost, it’s still double the amount they would fork out to conditionally register a tractor.
“So while it’s a step in the right direction, more needs to be done so landholders aren’t deterred from signing up to help their neighbours in an emergency.”
Service NSW is ready to assist people with their applications with eligible customers able to apply and pay their registrations in-person at their nearest Service NSW Centre.
More details including eligibility requirements are available on the Service NSW website.
Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Dave Layzell said the measure will save farmers the full registration fee but could go further.
q Farm Firefighting Vehicles are commonly small trucks, utes or trailers with fixed water, pumps or fire management equipment, kept on farms to be rapidly deployed in the event of a fire.
Joint training for SES and RFS volunteers
FROM Page 1
Greg Snape told News Of The Area.
“This is to allow you to use the skills and equipment that you already have,” Greg told the attendees.
“The best exercises are taken from experiences you’ve had and worked out [in] a better way.”
“Generally, the RFS is first on-site as there are more Brigades in the area than SES units, the SES then arrives and gets briefed by RFS with situation reports and radio calls,” Greg explained.
“The police are actually in
charge of an accident scene, unless there is a fire, while SES performs rescues for the police, [also] unless there is a fire, which is handed to the RFS or Fire and Rescue.
“Ambos are often already inside the wreck attempting to save lives, so SES will help them do their job, such as cutting into the car, [removing] obstacles to egress, help get them out, and avoid surprises by calling clear situational awareness indicators.”
The training focused on safety and the quick recognition of live power lines.
Crews kept an eightmetre distance until Essential Energy confirmed the area was safe.
SES and RFS volunteers ran a night-time crash rescue drill and completed the operation in 21.5 minutes.
Volunteers practised teamwork, tool use and safety procedures like a real emergency.
Each responder took responsibility for their own safety and only carried out tasks they were trained to do.
The teams are now seeking vehicle donations for future training exercises.
Authorised by Alison Penfold MP, National Party of Australia, 144 Victoria St, Taree NSW 2430.
q The car’s roof safely peeled down, with sharp edges protected against accidental contact. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe.
q SES and RFS volunteers safely extract the ‘casualty’ from the well-lit wreck. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe.
q One of the many large cutting tools that allow emergency workers access to otherwise impenetrable wrecks on the road. Photo: Thomas O’Keefe.
TRANSPORT BOOST
FROM Page 1
transport network needs to keep pace with that growth and ambition,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said.
“It’s about making it easier for people to get to work, school, university, the airport and the shops, while also keeping freight moving to support our industries and our economy.
“For locals, it means more reliable public transport, safer roads and better connections between our towns and our growing suburbs.
“For businesses, it means confidence that the Hunter’s transport links are being planned for the long-term, backing jobs and giving industry the certainty it needs.”
The plan includes investigating:
- more reliable and frequent services on the Hunter Rail Line, extending to the strategic centres of Singleton and Muswellbrook - increased bus services across both peak and nonpeak periods - upgrades to more than 20 key road corridors, including Newcastle Link
Road, Cessnock Road and the Morisset M1 interchange.
The Transport Plan also considers the Hunter’s role in renewable energy, identifying critical freight links from the Port of Newcastle to Renewable Energy Zones. It recommends improving safety with bridge replacements and Pacific Highway intersection upgrades.
It also calls out priority locations including suburbs and regional centres that need better public transport connectivity, as well as key attractions such as Newcastle International Airport,
The area covered by the Hunter Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan.
universities and other hubs that need quality public transport access to flourish.
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said some initiatives are already in the planning stage while others require further investigation.
“We heard loud and clear that public transport is a
key priority and this plan identifies opportunities to explore future transport options,” she said.
The plan was finalised following a 10-week formal consultation period including a public “have your say” process.
There were almost 600 responses from residents,
businesses, public and active transport users, as well as key stakeholders such as local councils, government agencies, peak bodies, community organisations and transport operators.
The final copy of the Hunter SRITP can be found on the Transport for NSW website.
DUNGOG SHIRE Kerbside Green Waste Collection
Does your garden need a Spring clean?
From Monday 13 October to Friday 17 October, Council will be running its Kerbside Green Waste Clean-Up across Dungog, Clarence Town, East Gresford, Gresford, Paterson, Martins Creek and Vacy.
Get ready by putting your green waste out from 11 October before collection starts. A maximum of 2 cubic metres per property applies.
Please place your green waste on the kerb at your usual bin collection spotnot blocking footpaths.
Acceptable Items
Garden prunings & tree limbs (≤ 1.8m long, ≤ 250mm diameter).
Lawn clippings & other loose vegetation (in sturdy cardboard boxes).
Bundles tied with rope or string (not wire), manageable by one person.
Unacceptable Items
Plastic bags (including poly woven bags). Loose items.
Large tree trunks or stumps > 250mm diameter.
Timber with bolts, brackets, etc., sawdust, thorny bushes.
q The plan includes extra bus services across the Hunter. Photo: Transport for NSW.
q
Investing in regional artists
REGIONAL Arts Australia is launching a “transformative” new funding initiative with $2.4 million dollars in support from Minderoo Foundation.
The program offers multiyear grants of $160,000 to support independent artists living and working in regional communities across Australia.
“Practice in Community” will deliver two funding rounds for independent artists working in Community Arts and Cultural Development (CACD) to cocreate impactful projects within their regional community and help it thrive.
Expressions of Interest open in October for the initial funding round, where five artists will be selected to begin their projects in 2026, followed by a second round to create a cohort of six artists commencing in 2027.
“We’ve listened closely to what regional artists have told us,” said Ros Abercrombie, Executive Director, Regional Arts Australia.
“They have been asking for longer-term support to work in their communities - different types of funding opportunities to complement one-off project funding.
“Practice in Community is about investing in artists themselves and unlocking creativity as a catalyst for hope, connection and thriving regional communities.”
Penny Dakin, Executive Director of Communities at the Minderoo Foundation, said the organisation was proud to support Regional Arts Australia’s vision to bring “inclusive, participatory arts practice to regional communities”.
“Minderoo Foundation believes in the power of community arts to bring people together, nurture potential, and build pride, and in the unique role philanthropy can play to unlock new opportunities, like Practice in Community, that elevate what’s possible.”
Through these multiyear grants, artists will also receive tailored professional development opportunities, including mentorship and dedicated wellbeing support.
A rigorous evaluation process will ensure the program remains community responsive, cross disciplinary, and grounded in local priorities. Learn more at https:// regionalarts.com.au/pic.
Y ur Paper, Y ur Voice
q Penny Dakin, Scott Howie, Ros Abercrombie, Andrew Barker, Danielle Fusco and Imogen Castledine.
THE 2025-26 trout fishing season officially opened on Saturday 4 October following the annual four-month closure to allow fish to spawn and reproduce.
The season remains open to midnight 8 June 2026.
Rivers and streams across NSW are in prime condition, with two million Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout and Atlantic Salmon to be stocked into rivers and lakes across the fishery over the coming six months.
The Government’s Dutton (Ebor) and Gaden (Snowy Mountains) Trout Hatcheries produce millions of trout and salmon each year, as well as breeding endangered natives species.
The Ebor hatchery has a successful trout stocking program in both Barrington Tops and Gloucester Tops.
NSW boasts some of the best trout fishing locations in the country, stretching from the pristine rivers of the Snowy Mountains and the tree-lined creeks of the Central West to the clear, rocky streams of New England.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “Trout fishing in NSW is more than just a weekend hobby; it plays a significant role in supporting regional tourism and driving local economic activity.
“The beauty of trout fishing is that it also brings people into contact with nature, the environment and the serenity of looking at a stream brimming with life in the water and around its banks.
“Fishers heading out for the start of the trout
fishing season will be in for a treat, with our world-class stocking program ensuring great fishing opportunities for these highly popular sportfish.”
It is important that all recreational fishers check they have a current and valid NSW Recreational Fishing Fee Receipt (unless exempt) and take the opportunity to remind themselves of the fishing rules before wetting a line.
A summary of fishing rules and regulations is available via the FishSmart App or by accessing the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide available at NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) offices, fishing fee agents or online.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP,
John Street, Singleton NSW 2330
q The Government’s Dutton (Ebor) and Gaden (Snowy Mountains) Trout Hatcheries produce millions of trout and salmon each year.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
MOVIE: MRS HARRIS GOES TO PARIS
SEVEN, 8.30pm, PG (2022)
The third film adaptation of the 1958 novel by Paul Gallico is an utter cinematic delight. The great Lesley Manville (pictured) is perfectly cast as the determined and good-natured house cleaner, who’s intent on getting herself a Christian Dior dress. This of course means going on a trip to the City of Lights, where her unwavering spirit charms the uptight, haute couture elite. An inspired supporting cast including Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson and Jason Isaacs rounds out a superb production. Striking just the right balance, Mrs Harris Goes to Paris is most certainly a trip worth taking.
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30
9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
9.50 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R)
10.15 The Assembly. (PG, R)
11.00 ABC Late News.
11.15 Silent Witness. (Mal, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
TUESDAY
BUMP
NBN, 8.35pm
If you’re just now catching up on this quality homegrown drama, welcome to the chaotic, complicated lives of the Hernández and Chalmers-Davis clans. There’s five seasons – and a forthcoming Christmas movie – on Stan, but Nine is taking free-to-air viewers back to where it all began. Last week, we met ambitious teenager Oly (Nathalie Morris, pictured) on the most extreme day of her life – the day the schoolgirl delivered a surprise baby and everything changed. An honourable mention goes to Claudia Karvan as Oly’s mum Angie, who is the heart and soul of this series.
WEDNESDAY THE IDEA OF AUSTRALIA
SBS, 7.30pm
Australia, where does the myth end and the truth begin?” So asks acclaimed actor Rachel Griffiths (pictured) in the trailer for this intriguing four-part series that questions how Australians see themselves and their future. The first instalment dives into the idea that we live on the land of a ‘fair go’. It’s a longheld belief that we live in an egalitarian society, but is it actually true when there’s a growing gap between the rich and poor? Among the pioneering Aussies who share their views over four episodes are Grace Tame, Rachel Perkins, Ray Martin and Craig Foster.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (R)
8.25 Lost Temples Of Cambodia. (PG, R) 9.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (MA15+av)
11.45 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 3.05 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R) 4.05 The Wheelhouse. (Mals, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (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. A look around a luxury home on the Gold Coast.
8.30 MOVIE: Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris. (2022, PGl) An ordinary woman’s dream of owning a Christian Dior gown leads her on a Parisian adventure. Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson. 11.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal, R) 11.30 GetOn Extra.
12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PGl, R)
1.00 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: Beneath The Waves. (Premiere, PG)
8.40 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022, Mal, R) The life of Elvis Presley, from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950s. Austin Butler, Tom Hanks.
11.40 Next Stop.
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Great Australian Detour. (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+. 7.00 Deal Or
SATURDAY, October 11
SUNDAY, October 12 6.00
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PG)
8.25 75 Years At Longleat.
9.20 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication. (PGa, R)
10.20 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.15 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Msv, R)
2.45 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
3.45 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.45 Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Practice session. 1.00 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Practice session and support races. 4.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG) Presented by Chrissie Swan. 8.00 MOVIE: Die Hard: With A Vengeance. (1995, Mlv, R) A New York detective tries to stop a mad bomber who is holding the city to ransom. Bruce Willis, Samuel L Jackson. 10.30 MOVIE: Ambulance. (2022, MA15+av, R) Jake Gyllenhaal. 1.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout. Replay. 3.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R)
9.35 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005, Ms, R)
11.35 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R)
1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. A woman tries to sell her mother’s retro home. 8.30 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) Ambulance crews attend to a man who has been found unresponsive on the roadside. 9.45 Gogglebox Australia. (R)
(M) 10.10 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R)
10.35 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R) 11.05 MOVIE: In My Blood It Runs. (2019, M, R) 12.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 12.55 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R) 3.30 The Art Of... (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 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. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts.
Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. (Return) 8.15 Crongton. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.05 Speechless. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY
6am Selkie. Continued. (2000, PG) 7.05 The Movie Show. 7.40 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 9.30 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 11.20
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (Premiere, PGa)
8.30 King And Conqueror. (Premiere, Mlv) 9.30 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (PG, R)
10.25 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG, R)
11.25 The Real Mo Farah. (PGa, R)
12.35 Gloriavale: New Zealand’s Secret Cult. (Ma, R) 2.10 Tough Trains. (PGav, R) 3.10 Welcome To My Farm. (R) 4.10 Urban Conversion. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
(31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Support races and warm up. From Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, NSW. 10.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Build up and Race.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger.
8.45 The Rise And Fall Of Kings Cross. (Premiere, M)
10.25 24 Hours In Police Custody: A Knife Through The Heart. (Madlv, R) 11.25 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Moorhouse Horrors. (Mav, R) 12.40 Miniseries: The Victim. (Malv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.45 9News Late.
10.15 A Killer Makes A Call: Grindr Killer. (MA15+a) 11.15 Mobsters: John Gotti. (Madv) 12.10 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R) 1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
The Garden Gurus. (R)
MONDAY, October 13
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits: Dream Teams. (Premiere)
8.30 King And Conqueror. (Mlv)
9.25 Sydney’s Super Tunnel. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)
11.30 Mayflies. (Madl, R)
12.35 The Allegation. (MA15+av, R) 2.35 Tough Trains. (PG, R) 3.35 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R) 4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Supertato. 7.00 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Gladiators. 9.35 The Crystal Maze. 10.25 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.
6am Finding
You. Continued. (2020, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Girls Will Be Girls. (2024, M, Hindi) 12.15pm Knight Of Cups. (2015, M) 2.25 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 4.15 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 8.30 Lawless. (2012, MA15+) 10.40 The Last Night Of Amore. (2023, MA15+) 1.05am Traffic. (2000, MA15+) 3.45 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, October 14
R) 1.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG)
8.30 Tell Me What You Really Think. (Premiere, M)
9.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 The Point. (R) 12.05 Safe Home. (Mal, R) 1.00 The Unusual Suspects. (Mls, R) 2.00 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 3.10 Tough Trains. (PGa, R) 4.10 Urban Conversion. (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. (PGa)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.00 The Rookie. (Mav) Three teenage girls are stabbed. 10.00 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) The team searches for a missing muralist. 11.00 S.W.A.T. (Mav) 12.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (Premiere, MA15+s)
7TWO (62)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 Murder In A Small Town. (M) Cassandra assists a local unhoused man. 10.10 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv) 11.10 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.10 Pretty Hard Cases. (Madv) 1.10 Travel Oz. (R) 2.00 Home
MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 8.30 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 10.20 True Grit. (2010, M) 12.25pm The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 2.55 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 4.35 Finding You. (2020, PG) 6.50 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 8.30 A Fistful Of Dollars. (1964, MA15+) 10.25 The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 12.30am Lawless. (2012, MA15+) 2.40 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
WEDNESDAY, October 15
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Idea Of Australia. (Premiere)
8.30 Great British Train Journeys From Above.
9.30 Code Of Silence. (Mlv)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 I Am Scrooge. (Premiere, Mal)
11.45 Freezing Embrace. (Malv, R)
1.25 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R)
2.30 Tough Trains. (PGa, R)
3.25 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R)
(PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 To Be Advised. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.45 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs.
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 RFDS. (Ma)
8.30 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu. (M) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
9.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) Experts share advice on living well.
10.30 Chicago Fire. (Ma)
11.30 The Agenda Setters.
12.30 Imposters. (Madlsv, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Kitchen Rules. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Room For Improvement. 2.30 House Of Wellness. 3.30
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mav)
9.40 The Grand Tour. (Ml)
11.10 9News Late.
11.40 Resident Alien. (Return, Malv) 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 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) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Bonneville.
Continued. (2006, PG) 6.35 The Movie Show. 7.10
The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 8.40 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 10.20 Like Water For Chocolate. (1992, M, Spanish) 12.20pm Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 2.20 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PG) 4.10 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 6.40 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 8.30 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 11.00 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, October 16
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PGs, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Grand Designs Australia. (Return, PG)
9.00 Grand Designs New Zealand. (Final)
9.45 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R) 10.40 ABC Late News.
10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Grand Designs. (Ml, R)
12.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 12.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 24 Hours In ALDI. (R)
8.25 Scandinavia With Simon Reeve.
9.30 Blue Lights.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Davos 1917. (Mv)
12.05 The Head. (Malv, R)
1.40 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PG, R)
2.45 Tough Trains. (PGa, R)
3.40 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.45 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Patient. 9.50 MOVIE: The Lost Boys. (1987, M) 11.35 The Bloody Decade. 1.35am WWE Legends. 3.05 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 The Rap Game UK. 1.35 From North Korea, With Love. 2.30 Bamay. 2.55 Insight. 3.55 News. 4.00 WorldWatch. 6.00 Our Medicine. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island Specials. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.40am Conversations. 2.20 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 7.55 The Movie Show. 8.30 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 10.10 The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 12.15pm For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 2.40 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 4.10 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 6.15 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 8.30 The Good, The Bad And The Ugly. (1966, M) 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
8.30 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls) Jim Jefferies has a question for the ‘plusses’ of the world.
9.30 The Amazing Race. (PG) Hosted by Phil Keoghan.
11.00 7NEWS: The Balibo Five – 50 Years On. (R)
11.30 Gatecrashers.
12.30 Life. (Malsv, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
(64) 7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT. (PGd, R) 8.30
9GEM (82)
DRAMA
DRAMA (51)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
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The Area OPINION Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
DEAR Jasminda,
A mutual friend often offers me job opportunities during social gatherings, but doesn't mention the subject again until the next time we catch up. Should I take these offers seriously and seek further information, or brush them off?
Katie L.
Dear Katie, Social situations often involve social lubricants. Is your mutual friend half-tanked when these job opportunities are discussed? Are you?
I'd be wary about any work discussions that take place
after multiple rounds of drinks. In these situations, the mutual friend may be drawn to talents that don't translate to employability skills in the cold light of day.
Does he for example say, ‘you'd be an asset to the workplace’, as you're shouting, 'I reckon I have another Mojito in me’. Then, ‘let's run home; it's only five kilometres'?’
This declaration may scream “Ricky Resilience” when your mutual friend is sloshed, but with a fresh mind, he may instead view you as someone who overpromises and under-delivers (particularly if you have to call an Uber at the halfway mark). Does he ask about your career aspirations after you've performed a rousing acapella version of Aerosmith's Dream On at the monthly Open Mic night?
Again, this self assurance is impressive, but your performative skills may irritate other staff in the open plan office. Alternatively, could he simply be waiting for you to show the same initiative you showed when you encouraged everyone to join in on a Nutbush City Limits dance-off and call him.
In future, ask him to clarify the specifics (including the next stage of the process).
Or, when the evening has reached its inevitable looseygoosey stage, you could record him reciting the job opportunity (with permission, of course).
When you play the offer back the next day, you may decide that you don't want the position after all.
SUDOKU
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Add your voice to CWA survey
COST-OF-LIVING pressures
and the impact on access to basic needs like health services is one of the key issues emerging from the Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW Annual Women’s Survey.
The survey is now in its second year and is currently open to all women in communities across the state.
“Last year’s survey really proved to us the need for somewhere for women to highlight their greatest concerns and the issues having the greatest impact on their lives, and on their communities as a whole,” said
CWA of NSW President Tanya Jolly.
“We got hundreds of responses that have helped inform and strengthen our advocacy efforts in 2025, and we’re confident of a similar level of engagement with our second survey.
“Being able to show these results to policy-makers, and present really clear evidence for change, is the strength of a survey like this and I’d urge all women to take some time to put their feelings and experiences forward.”
The survey closes at the end of October, but some preliminary results show
that economic pressures, job security and the state of rural and regional health services are currently among the leading concerns of respondents.
“One of the questions asks what would improve their economic wellbeing, with an analysis of interim responses revealing recurring themes of financial stress, structural barriers, and unmet needs, pointing to areas for urgent policy focus and systemic change,” Tanya said.
“Cost-of-living topped the concerns, respondents saying their income whether from work, pensions, or support
payments was no longer sufficient to cover basic needs like groceries and utilities.
“This financial pressure was amplified in remote areas where goods and services cost more.”
Concerns are also being raised about the precarious nature of work in many regional communities, especially for casual workers, carers returning to work, and younger women.
It was also highlighted that available jobs often don’t cover the cost of living or lack stability.
On the question, “What would make the biggest
difference to healthcare in your community?”, the urgent need for more GPs and primary care doctors is currently leading responses.
The affordability of health care is also being highlighted, exacerbated by the decline in bulk billing in many communities.
The survey covers a raft of issues, including housing stocks, education opportunities, infrastructure, childcare options and telecommunications.
“To date, the types of concerns that are coming to light are not really a surprise, particularly for those in
Stargazing: How long would it take to get to the nearest star?
By David RENEKE, Astronomer
EVERY night, the stars wink down at us like ancient storytellers, daring us to come closer.
They’ve been hanging there for billions of years, teasing us with the possibility that someone - or somethingmight be staring back.
The great cosmic question is simple yet maddening: will we ever actually visit another star?
The nearest one, Proxima Centauri, sits a mere four lightyears away.
That sounds manageable until you realize a light-year is nearly ten trillion kilometers.
If Earth were shrunk to the size of a grain of sand, Proxima would still be the next beach over.
Our fastest spacecraft, Voyager 1, has been plodding along since the 1970s and hasn’t even crossed a single light-day yet. At its pace, you’d be looking at 70,000 years before knocking on Proxima’s door.
That’s a lot of sandwiches to pack.
And yet, the temptation is irresistible.
In 2016, astronomers discovered Proxima b, a rocky world orbiting right in the star’s “Goldilocks zone.”
Not too hot, not too cold - at least in theory.
Could it have oceans? Forests?
Or skies full of strange flying creatures we haven’t even imagined?
For all we know, someone there might be wondering if we exist.
The universe loves a good riddle, and this is one of its best.
Getting there is the tricky part.
Chemical rockets are out
- they’re the Model T of space travel.
To cross interstellar space, we’d need the starship equivalent of a Ferrari: nuclear fusion drives, antimatter engines, or even giant laser beams pushing wafer-thin sails at a fraction of light speed.
The most ambitious idea so far, called Breakthrough Starshot, imagines sending tiny robotic probes to Proxima that would arrive in just a couple of decades.
They wouldn’t carry humans - more like robotic spies - but imagine the first close-up pictures of another
star’s planet. That alone would be the postcard of the millennium.
But the real prize would be a human journey.
Even at 10 percent the speed of light, it would take over 40 years to get there.
That’s an epic road trip - grandparents launching, grandchildren landing.
And that’s assuming you survive cosmic radiation, figure out how to eat without restocking Woolworths, and, importantly, remember how to stop when you get there.
Crashing through another solar system at 30,000
kilometres per second would be a very short visit indeed.
Still, history favours dreamers.
Once, the Moon was as unreachable as the stars.
Now astronauts look back at Earth from its surface in old photo albums.
Crossing oceans was once madness; today it’s a budget flight.
Maybe our descendants will see interstellar travel as just another commute, albeit one with better snacks.
Will we find life? That’s the shimmering promise.
Maybe it will be microbial slime under alien seas, or maybe - just maybe - something looking up at the same sky, wondering
remote, rural and regional NSW, but what this survey offers us is the chance to put concrete numbers around the problems, and their significance,” Tanya said.
“That can speak louder than words alone when it comes to our discussions with policy-makers.
“To continue with our efforts to make a case for change, we need every woman’s voice, so I’d urge you to complete the survey if you haven’t already and urge your friends and family to be involved, too.”
To complete the survey, go to https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/ VV7HSZB.
Responses close on 31 October.
about us.
If two civilizations are staring across the void, perhaps one day we’ll wave across the darkness and finally meet our cosmic neighbours.
Until then, the stars remain both distant and tantalizingly close—like a door we know we’ll open eventually.
The question isn’t whether we’ll visit another star.
It’s when we finally get the nerve - and the technology - to knock.
The stars are far, yes - but they are not unreachable forever.
For a species that has already left footprints on another world, the road ahead is not a matter of “if,” only “when.”
Buggy rollover
SIX people were injured in a buggy rollover at Davis Creek west of Barrington Tops on Sunday.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was among a large contingent of emergency services called to the site, on a farm near Aberdeen, around 2pm on 5 October.
Ambulance paramedics also treated a child, who was flown to John Hunter Hospital in the Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter.
A further four adults were injured in the rollover. They were treated at the scene and were taken to John Hunter Hospital by road. All were in a stable condition.
A woman aged in her sixties had suffered arm injuries and was treated at the scene by a paramedic and doctor from the helicopter’s critical care medical team, as well as paramedics from NSW Ambulance. She was flown to John Hunter Hospital in a serious condition.
q Six people were injured at Davis Creek on Sunday, 5 October. Photo: WRHS.
Paterson ‘Pop-in’ Community Hub opens
1
with the support of Rural Aid, Bank of IDEAS, and Paterson Rotary.
The launch brought together 22 community members, who enjoyed a cuppa, conversation, and creative craft activities while exploring what
the new hub has to offer.
The Hub is designed as a place where residents can gather, share skills, build friendships, and support one another, strengthening the town’s sense of belonging.
–
“It’s a place where people can
Health, housing and jobs stifling the country dream
By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP
A QUIET life in the countryside appeals to nearly half of Australia's city residents, but concerns about access to health care, housing and jobs are stopping them making the move.
Country Australia is on track
to become home to 11 million people by 2032, or 40 percent of the population, while 40 percent of people living in the cities are considering a move to the bush, research from the Regional Australia Institute shows.
While the country lifestyle and lower cost-of-living was appealing, access to housing, health care, connectivity and public transport were seen as key barriers.
Those findings - along with a lack of progress on skilled workforce and education targets - has prompted the think tank to call for "40 for the regions".
Regional Australia should get 40 percent of the seats at policy-makers' tables, with the same percentage of new migrant settlements and the homes to be built under the National Housing Accord, it said.
"Australia has been caught on the hop by a regional renaissance with critical services,
infrastructure and skills playing catch-up to population growth," institute chief executive Liz Ritchie said on Tuesday.
"An urgent intervention, like this commitment, would at least ensure that regional Australians are getting the proportionate focus they deserve."
The institute released a three-year progress report on its vision to ensure 11 million people could live prosperously in the regions by 2032, finding the proportion of skilled workers has dropped slightly in 2025.
The school attainment rate also fell to 74 percent, while the regional rental vacancy rate remained "tight" at 1.9 percent in June.
Separate research from the National Rural
Health Alliance in August showed an $8.35 billion annual shortfall on health care in the bush, or roughly $1090 per person.
"40 for the regions is recognition that regional Australia has a different set of challenges to our cities and one-size-fits-all decision-making doesn't always deliver equal outcomes," Ms Ritchie said.
q While the country lifestyle and lower cost-of-living was appealing, access to housing, health care, connectivity and public transport were seen as key barriers.
THE Paterson community celebrated the opening of the new ‘Pop-in’ Community Hub on Wednesday
October, a welcoming space created by local volunteers from Paterson Community Builders
The Paterson Community Builders expressed their gratitude to St Paul’s Church Paterson for generously providing the venue for the Hub.
Dungog Shire Councillor
Alexandria Carruthers praised the initiative, saying, “The Paterson Pop-Up Community Hub is about more than a venue
it’s about connection.
q The Hub is designed as a place where residents can gather, share skills, build friendships, and support one another.
opens its doors
build relationships, share skills, and support each other.
“I’m thrilled to see this space come to life thanks to the dedication and vision of the volunteers behind it.
q The Hub is designed as a place where residents can gather, share skills, build friendships, and support one another.
“Walking through the brightly decorated entrance of the hub yesterday, being welcomed by locals chatting over a cuppa, seeing kids getting creative and the plans from the Paterson Community
Builders Action Plan on the wallsit felt exciting, there’s big things to come in Paterson.”
The ‘Pop-in’ Hub will be open every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30pm to 6:30pm until 17
Review of thoroughbred
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
• Transparency and accountability requirements
• Stakeholder consultation and participation mechanisms
• Initiatives to support the long-term sustainability and viability of the industry, including regional NSW
• Animal welfare and participant health and safety
December 2025, offering regular opportunities for the community to come together, take part in activities, and shape the future of the space.
The Paterson Community
racing in NSW
Anyone interested in the industry, including breeders, trainers, jockeys, clubs, racegoers and the wider community are invited to make a submission until 5pm on Monday 24 November. Submissions can be made via the NSW Government Have Your Say website or lodged by email or post.
Builders group encourages all residents to ‘pop in’ and be part of the journey to strengthen community spirit and create new opportunities for connection.
or
The review will also include targeted engagement with key industry stakeholders, including Racing NSW and major associations representing clubs across metropolitan, provincial and country sectors, owners, trainers, breeders and jockeys. Consultation sessions will be led by Mr Hazzard. All feedback will be carefully considered and will help shape the review’s findings and any recommendations for legislative change.
To make a submission, visit: https://www. haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/trareview.
THE NSW Government has released a discussion paper to guide public consultation on the independent review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996.
The review will assess whether the Act remains appropriate to ensure the integrity and proper regulation of thoroughbred racing in NSW and to support the industry’s development and sustainability.
It will also consider whether the framework promotes integrity, transparency and animal and jockey welfare.
The review is being led by former Minister Brad Hazzard, who has been appointed as the independent reviewer.
Mr Hazzard is supported by a secretariat in Hospitality and Racing within the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport.
The discussion paper seeks feedback on these matters contained in the Act:
• Governance structures and processes
