School of Arts secures community grant
By Shannon BENTON
The
The
WORK UNDERWAY
q Eric Muir, Denis Shore, Joshua Morgan, Kristie Howard, Patricia Middlebrook and Rod Farmer.
By Shannon BENTON
“YOU can never get enough books into the hands of enough children,” says Dolly Parton, and thanks to several generous local businesses, more young readers in the Dungog Shire are getting just that.
Dungog Early Literacy is celebrating the growing success of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has now delivered more than 264 million free books to children under five around the
Since launching locally last year, the Dungog program has seen over 90 babies receive a brandnew book in the post each month, delivered free of charge to their letterbox until they turn five.
This important early literacy initiative is being actively supported by local business sponsors: Evergreen Bean, Dungog Wholefood Co-op, The Mutual Bank, and Pathways Integrative Health.
Each has committed to sponsoring local children
enrolled in the program, and proudly displays a Dungog Early Literacy window sticker designed by volunteer Anne Fisher.
“Local business support means local kids benefit, and we’re so grateful to the Dungog businesses who’ve come on board,” said Anne Higgins from Dungog Early Literacy.
Research shows that early access to books and regular reading supports language development, school readiness, and lifelong learning.
With growing enrolments, the need for funding is also growing.
It costs $108 per year for each child to receive books through the Dungog program, and both individual and business sponsors are needed to ensure that no child misses out.
Dungog Early Literacy also acknowledges the valued support of other sponsors outside the shire, who continue to make this program possible.
If your local business
would like to help change a child’s life through the joy of reading, contact Anne Higgins at:
dungogearlyliteracy@ gmail.com.
As Dr Seuss said, “The more that you read, the
more things you know. The more that you learn, the more places you go.”
q Samantha Bean from Evergreen Bean.
q Donna Skinner from The Mutual Bank.
q Judith Hand from the Dungog Wholefood Co-op with Anne Higgins from Dungog Early Literacy.
q Allen Crosson from Pathways Integrative Health.
No ‘hard and fast date’ for XPT return
By John WATTS
TRANSPORT for
NSW Deputy
Secretary Camilla Drover has offered little hope of a speedy return of the region’s XPT service.
“I’m not willing to commit to a hard and fast date,” she said when recently appearing before a Parliamentary budget estimates hearing.
According to Transport for NSW (TfNSW), the NSW Government is replacing the ageing NSW regional rail fleet of XPT, XPLORER and Endeavour trains with 29 safe, comfortable and more accessible trains for customers travelling across NSW, and between Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane.
In a statement in February this year, Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison said the XPT fleet had reached an impressive 40-plus years in service and that work
was underway to ensure it continued to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable experience until the next generation “Regional Rail Fleet” was ready to be introduced.
“The NSW Government has committed $40.3 million over five years for the XPT Life Extension Project,” she said.
Since then, XPT services to the Mid North Coast, including Dungog, have been reduced while the ageing XPTs are refurbished.
The new trains were originally planned to be running by January 2023, but few of the 29 trains that were ordered have arrived.
News Of The Area sought comment from Transport for NSW as to whether the fact the refurbishment will take five years, also means the new trains will not come into service for at least five years.
And will the region
continue to receive only a limited service during that time?
In response, TfNSW repeated the minister’s comments from earlier this year.
“A timeline for the new Regional Rail Fleet’s entry into service will be confirmed once the trains have progressed through testing, assurance and the relevant verifications on the NSW and
Australian rail networks.
“There is a significant amount of work to be done before the new trains enter passenger service.
“For a 12-month period during the XPT Life Extension
Project, premium coaches are replacing XPTs on the Grafton route.
“Trains are scheduled to resume on the Grafton service next year.”
School of Arts secures community grant
FROM Page 1
Bandon Grove community hall, ensuring backup power to critical circuits such as refrigeration, water, and the internet during emergencies.
This is expected to significantly strengthen the region’s disaster preparedness and overall community resilience.
It continues to be a hub for events, expert briefings on bushfire and flood risk, and is a registered Community Fire Unit site.
The hall also houses a 24-
Built in 1901 on donated land with funds raised by locals, the Bandon Grove School of Arts has long served as a vital community meeting place.
hour accessible defibrillator.
“Being selected out of such a large pool of applicants is a huge honour,” said Joshua Morgan from the hall committee.
Essential Energy’s Head of Sustainability Sophie Cruickshank, said the organisation is proud to back grassroots efforts.
“This grant not only helps reduce environmental impact and running costs but also enhances the hall’s critical role during natural disasters.”
“These grants are about supporting real, lasting change, where it’s needed most,” she said.
The Bandon Grove School of Arts committee expressed deep gratitude to Essential Energy for supporting their vision for a stronger, safer, and more sustainable community hub.
q An artist’s impression of the XPT replacement trains. Photo: TfNSW.
Category D support for farmers
ADDITIONAL support has been announced for primary producers in New South Wales affected by the extreme flooding event from 18 May 2025.
This funding is provided under Category D of the CommonwealthState Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and is jointly funded
by the Australian and NSW Governments.
The package will be available through grants administered by the NSW Rural Assistance Authority
WORK UNDERWAY
new Clarence Town Bridge will be a dual-lane structure approximately 135 metres in length and 14.4 metres wide.
It will include a pedestrian walkway, upgraded road approaches, and approach footpaths.
The new bridge will enhance access over the Williams River to Clarence Town, in addition to the heritage-listed Brig O’Johnston timber truss bridge.
In recent weeks, Bridgeworks has finalised the set-up of site offices, removed trees necessary for construction, and created hard stand areas for equipment and materials.
Earthworks have begun on the Clarence Town side of the project, and piling works have begun on the Limeburners Creek Road side.
These earthworks are expected to cause some noise during business hours.
“This is one of the largest infrastructure undertakings we’ve
it come to life,” said Mayor Digby Rayward.
“The new bridge will ensure that our community stays connected and well-equipped to meet the needs of the future, greatly improving access and reliability for everyone.
“I’m proud to see this project begin, and I can’t wait to see the long-lasting positive impact it will have on the Shire.”
During construction, traffic flow on Durham Street and Limeburners Creek Road will be affected, with speed limits reduced to 40km/h and traffic reduced to one lane at times.
Outside of essential maintenance works by Transport for NSW, the existing Brig O’Johnston Bridge will remain open to traffic during construction to minimise commuter disruptions.
Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said the Clarence Town Bridge has needed upgrading for over a decade.
"The current heavy vehicle
that enable eligible primary producers to access up to $75,000 in assistance.
Eligible primary producers can apply for grants of up to $75,000 to assist with:
• Clean-up and debris removal
• Repairing damaged infrastructure and equipment
• Restocking and replanting
• Replacing lost or damaged assets
• Restoring operations to pre-disaster levels
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “This additional funding means farmers can focus on rebuilding and getting back to work without the weight of financial uncertainty holding them back.
“Recovery is never one size fits all, and this support will give farmers the flexibility to address the unique challenges they’re facing on the ground.”
NSW Minister for
Recovery Janelle Saffin told NOTA, “I’ve seen how hard the floods have been on our farmers on the Mid North Coast and in the Hunter.
“I know that the wait while we put our application (for category D funding) together has been a tough one, but we have been successful.
“This means local producers who’ve lost feed livestock and vital infrastructure continue to get the help they need to recover and rebuild.”
The announcement follows weeks of advocacy from flood-affected residents, Councils, politicians, local leaders, and community groups.
Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold said the announcement is a “step toward giving our producers the support they should have received weeks ago”.
“Many of our producers lost fencing, crops, machinery and livestock.
“It’s taken too long - but
today, we’re finally seeing real, practical support for primary producers.”
While primary producers can now access the extended grants program, small business funding was not included in the Category D announcement.
“The question however is what about small businesses across the region?” Ms Penfold asked.
“Where is their additional support?
“They’ve been crying out for help too alongside our primary producers.
“I’m shocked that the NSW State Government’s request did not include support for small businesses.
“Small business is the backbone of our community and they too need additional support to get back on their feet.
“I will continue to advocate and work for them and our community – from the Hastings to the Hunter and all places in between - to ensure we get the full package of recovery and rebuilding support that our small businesses and our communities need.”
diversion of 52 kilometres is a significant issue for freight operators and school buses,” she said.
"The new bridge is a win-win for everyone, ensuring that the
historic bridge will be maintained, while ensuring a safe and resilient alternative for the majority of vehicles.”
The new bridge is anticipated to be completed in late 2026.
The community is encouraged to keep an eye on Dungog Shire Council’s website and Facebook page for project updates and changes to traffic conditions.
q A rally in Taree calls for Category D funding to be announced.
FROM Page 1 ever seen in the Shire, and it will be incredibly exciting to watch
q A hardstand area has been created off Limeburners Creek Road, while earthworks have commenced for the new Clarence Town Bridge, which is being built adjacent to the existing Brig O'Johnston Bridge.
FARMERS are calling for a government crackdown to stamp out fire ants in NSW after the pests were discovered in Tweed Heads last week.
Fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) are prohibited under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 and high-risk materials are restricted from infested areas of south-east Queensland.
On Wednesday the NSW Government confirmed an immature Red Imported Fire Ant nest was detected on a property on NSW’s far north coast, where it was later destroyed by authorities.
“An investigation was immediately commenced following the report of suspected fire ants and the discovery of an immature nest led to its destruction,” Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said.
A genetic analysis has commenced of the specimen fire ants to determine the likely source.
NSW Chief Invasive Species Officer Scott Charlton said, "Investigations and surveillance are underway following this detection; however, the fact that the nest was immature, or non-productive, is reassuring.
“A vigilant pest control contractor at the site quickly identified suspected fire ants.”
NSW Farmers Biosecurity Committee Chair Tony Hegarty said the repeated detections of fire ants in NSW were a clear sign of a “colossal failure” of current biosecurity measures.
“The danger that Red Imported Fire Ants present to people, animals and the environment could not be more extreme," Mr Hegarty said.
“We’re rapidly losing the battle from one pest to another here in NSW, and the way we’re going, fire ants could well be the next threat our government fails to control.”
Mr Hegarty called on the state government to ensure every resource was available to eradicate the ants as soon as possible.
“Current biosecurity measures clearly aren’t doing the job, and while we’ve got $100 million in new biosecurity funding, this one pest alone could cost us $60 billion over the next 30 years,” Mr Hegarty said.
“The NSW Government needs to get real on border biosecurity and properly vet high-risk materials coming into our borders, or else these ants are only going to keep marching on in until it’s all too late.”
Regional buses get real-time travel technology
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Roads
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-
"No
Learn about using the Transport for NSW Trip Planner tool at transportnsw. info/trip or other apps at transportnsw.info/apps.
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FRIDAY GARDENING AUSTRALIA
ABC TV, 7.30pm
The Gardening Australia team is focused on all things First Nations in this NAIDOC Week episode, with Indigenous plants front and centre.
Costa Georgiadis is cooking up a storm in Kakadu, resident bush tucker expert Clarence Slocklee (above) – a Bundjalung man – shares his own gardening journey with us, and Josh Byrne gets a lesson in identifying the arguably more useful Noongar seasons (of which there are six). Rounding things out, Jerry Coleby-Williams imparts his knowledge of the culturally significant bunya pine –another traditional source of nutrition – and the team pays a visit to a group using plants to ensure their Arrernte language is passed on to a new generation.
July
SUNDAY
THE
CROW GIRL
SEVEN, 9.20pm
Based on the Scandinavian novel by Erik Axl Sund, this dark psychological thriller flips the usual Jane Doe script on its head and instead follows the efforts to catch a serial killer who’s brazenly leaving the bodies of young men in bags all over Bristol. DCI Jeanette Kilburn (Eve Myles, Broadchurch with Sophia Craven (Katherine Kelly, right), a psychotherapist whose speciality is counselling criminals, to solve the case. As they dig deeper – and grow closer – the unlikely duo begin to uncover a trail that leads to overlooked missing children’s cases tracing back decades. All the while, the body count is increasing and police corruption is rearing its ugly head, but the clues are adding up.
WEDNESDAY ELSBETH
TEN, 8.40pm
Her wardrobe is bursting with colourful confections, her trusty totes are packed with more goodies than Mary Poppins’ magic carpet bag and her brain is buzzing with more information than the standard PC –yep, Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston) is every minimalist’s worst nightmare. Enter this week’s guest star, Mary-Louise Parker (above, Weeds, The West Wing), as decluttering guru Freya Frostad. Famous for her rule of “44” – the perfect number of possessions a person should own – Freya has seemingly also applied a less-is-more approach to her personal life, by offing her husband. As our charming crime solver tests Freya’s boundaries, more than a few surprising revelations are in store.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis gets a taste of Kakadu cooking.
8.30 Patience. (Ma) Patience is questioned by the police after coming under suspicion in the burning man investigation.
9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 9.55 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.
10.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
11.15 ABC Late News.
11.30 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)
12.35 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles. Looks at The Swan
8.25 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 7.
1.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)
2.30 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (PGa, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (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. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.30 MOVIE: The Other Woman. (2014, Mals, R) After discovering her boyfriend is married, a woman tries to get her ruined life back on track. Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, Kate Upton. 10.50 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mlns, R) The couples receive another crate.
12.25 The Disappearance. (Ma, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (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 Rugby League. NRL. Round 19. Cronulla Sharks v Dolphins. From Sharks Stadium, Sydney.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Cronulla Sharks versus Dolphins match, with news and analysis. 10.45 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12. Semi-finals. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12 Late. Semi-finals. 4.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard. 5.00 Fishing Australia. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 MOVIE: Space Jam: A New Legacy. (2021, PG) 9.45 BTN Newsbreak. 9.50 Robot Wars. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Jeopardy! UK. 10.00
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple are searching for their first home. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mdl, R) Celebrity guests include Paul Mescal.
SATURDAY, July 12
6.25 Australian Story: The River Pt 2 – Franklin River Rescue. (R) The conclusion to the perilous 24-hour mission.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Grantchester. (Mav) A familiar face arrives at the vicarage.
8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Masv, R) Barnaby and Winter investigate when a member of a village watch is murdered.
9.50 Bay Of Fires. (Madv, R) Stella is thrown into a tailspin.
10.40 Little Disasters. (Mal, R)
11.30 Whale Wisdom. (R)
12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5pm Peppa Pig. 5.10 Octonauts And The Caves Of Sac Actun. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 Dance Life. 9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.30 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 6. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 7. H’lights. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. Tour de France.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (PG)
8.25 Emily: I Am Kam. (PG, R) Celebrates the legacy of artist Emily Kam Kngwarray.
9.35 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 8. Saint-Méen-le-Grand to Laval. 171km flat stage. From France. 1.45 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mv, R)
2.35 Blue Water Safari. (PGal, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. (Return, PG) The team stays in Tasmania’s central highlands.
7.30 MOVIE: Titanic. (1997, Mansv, R) An upper-class woman falls for a penniless young man. Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet.
11.35 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mals, R)
12.55 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 1. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: The Castle. (1997, Ml, R) Michael Caton. 9.20 MOVIE: Muriel’s Wedding. (1994, Mls, R) A woman leaves her small town to find romance. Toni Collette, Bill Hunter.
11.30 To Be Advised.
12.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show.
1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 13 Late. Women’s final.
4.00 Find My Country House Australia. (PG, R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple must decide whether to leave or stay. 8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving. 9.50 House Hunters Australia. (PGl, R) A couple look for a home near Lake Macquarie, NSW. 10.50 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) Elsbeth matches wits with a psychic. 11.50 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
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6am Lara.
Continued. (2019, PG, German) 6.35 The Movie Show. 7.05 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 10.00 The Movie Show. 10.30 Walkabout. (1971, M) 12.25pm The New Boy. (2023, M) 2.35 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG) 4.05 The Movie Show. 4.35 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 6.55 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 8.30 Harry Brown. (2009, MA15+) 10.30 La Maison. (2022, MA15+, German) 12.10am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, July 13
6.00
6.30 Compass. (PGals)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PGs) Hosted by Adam Hills.
8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Mlv) Mystery Bay’s brief flirtation with happiness ends.
8.55 Little Disasters. (Mal) Jess’ fate hangs in the balance.
9.45 MOVIE: Spear. (2015, Mal, R) A young Aboriginal learns what it means to be a man. Hunter Page-Lochard.
11.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R)
11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.40 Under The Vines. (PG, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.55 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Abbott Elementary. 10.15 Speechless. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Eiffel Tower: Building The Impossible. (PGan, R) Takes a look at the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of progress that has towered over Paris for over 130 years.
9.15 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 9. Chinon to Chateauroux. 170km hilly stage. From France.
1.45 24 Hours In Emergency: You Are Not Alone. (Ma, R)
2.40 Blue Water Safari. (PGal, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
Morning Programs. 1.10pm Our Law. 1.45 Cook Up Bitesize. 1.55 SBS50. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.25 PBS Washington Week. 4.50 Jeopardy! 5.15 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 5.40 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs. 6.35 Engineering Reborn. 7.30 Abandoned Engineering. 8.25 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. 10.10 Late Programs.
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6am The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp. Continued. (1943, PG) 6.45 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 9.05 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 10.40 White Tiger. (2012, To Leslie. (2022, M) 2.55 Thirteen Days. (2000, 11.05 Before, Now And Then. (2022, MA15+, Indonesian) 1.05am Harry Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) 8.20 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.20 The Crow Girl. (Premiere, Malv) A detective teams up with a psychotherapist.
11.25 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mals, R)
12.45 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 2. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning Programs. 9.55
Innovation Nation. 10.10 Rise Of The Superbombs.
Australia. 2.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 3.30
Of
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PG)
8.10 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.10 To Be Advised.
10.10 9News Late.
10.30 See No Evil: The Trophy Collector. (MA15+av)
11.30 The First 48: Tell No Tales/Unfair Fight. (Mav) 12.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. 1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 14 Late. Men’s final.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
Pink Panther. (1983, PG) 5.45 MOVIE: Doctor Dolittle. (1998, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2. (2011, M) 10.05 Late Programs. Morning Programs. Harry And Meghan: Harry And Meghan:
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. Four contestants face off. 8.15 Fake. (Final, Ml) Birdie retraces her steps back to Joe’s
DRAMA
MONDAY, July 14
6.00
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. (Premiere) 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do
TUESDAY, July 15
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Portillo’s Andalucia. (Final, R)
8.20 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand. (Final, PGa, R) Sue Perkins concludes her exploration of Thailand.
9.15 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 10.
2.05 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
3.05 Incredible Homes. (PGn, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 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 The 1% Club. (PGl, R) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.
8.30 9-1-1. (Mav) Following Maddie’s mysterious 911 call, Chimney returns home to find his daughter alone and Maddie nowhere to be found.
10.30 The Agenda Setters.
11.30 Police Custody USA: Meth Wars. (Madl, R)
12.30 Gone. (MA15+v, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Parental Guidance. (PGa)
9.00 100% Footy. (M)
10.00 Rise Of The Dolphins. (PGl) 11.30 9News Late. 12.00 Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Ma) 1.00 Fishing Australia. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Frogs’ Sake! (R) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am 3 Days
In Quiberon. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 7.25 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 10.05 The Movie Show. 10.40 Boccaccio ’70. (1962, M, German) 2.25pm The Movie Show. 3.00 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 5.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 7.30 The Great Spirit. (2019, M, Italian) 9.35 Wild Seas. (2022, MA15+, French) 11.20 Boiling Point. (2021, MA15+) 1.10am J. Edgar. (2011, M) 3.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGav)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.05 Anne Boleyn. (Masv, R)
2.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
3.00 Incredible Homes. (R)
3.55 Growing A Greener World. (PGa, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
That Built The World. 7.00 Jeopardy! 7.25 News. 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.25 The UnBelievable. 10.15 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30
6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm Border Security. 2.30
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Irene returns with a heartbreaking secret. 8.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mls) As one couple pull the flare and leave the experience for good, two couples ignite fire in another way, taking their relationship to the next level.
11.30 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.30 Fairly Legal. (Ma, R) Kate helps a friend with a prenup.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am 8 1/2. Continued. (1963, PG, Italian) 8.25 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) 10.30 20th Century Women. (2016, M) 12.45pm Nostalgia. (2022, M, Italian) 2.55 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 5.35 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 7.30 American Pastoral. (2016, M) 9.30 Maria Into Life. (2022, M, French) 11.15 Mother Couch. (2023, M) 1am Wild Seas. (2022, MA15+, French) 2.45 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 work or holiday.
9GO! (83)
9GO!
6.00
WEDNESDAY, July 16
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Singapore Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Great Lighthouses Of Ireland. (PGa, R) 11.05 Boswell And Johnson’s Scottish Road Trip. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 SBS50. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Latest Secrets Of The Hieroglyphs. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 How Disney Built America. (PG) 8.20 Eat Smart: Secrets Of The Glucose Goddess. (Final, PG)
9.15 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 11.
1.45 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
2.45 Incredible Homes. (R)
3.40 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.10 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 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 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Junior Vets. 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Abbott Elementary. 9.15
THURSDAY,
6.00
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa)
10.00 Ashley Cain: Into The Danger Zone. (MA15+a)
11.20 Stags. (MA15+alv)
12.20 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)
1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
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6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (Ml)
8.30 Murder Down Under. (MA15+av)
9.30 Australian Crime Stories. (Mav, R)
10.40 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.40 9News Late. 12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
(32)
6am Another
Mother’s Son. Continued. (2017, PG) 6.40 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 8.35 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 10.10 The Great Spirit. (2019, M, Italian) 12.15pm American Pastoral. (2016, M) 2.15 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 4.10 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 6.20 The Great Escape. (1963, PG) 9.30 Other People’s Children. (2022, M, French) 11.25 Late Programs.
July 17
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 10. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 11. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Engineering Reborn. (PGav, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 SBS50. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 11. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes. (PGaw)
9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 12.
2.15 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
2.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)
3.25 Incredible Homes. (R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Dopesick. Midnight MOVIE: The Kid Detective. (2020, MA15+) 1.45 One Night In... 2.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 12.30 Insight. 1.30 The Giants: From Hawaii To Sumo Legends. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.00 Over The Black Dot. 6.30 Travel Man. 7.00 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.
MOVIES (32)
6am The Battle Of The River Plate. Continued. (1956, PG) 7.25 The Great Escape. (1963, PG) 10.35 Maria Into Life. (2022, M, French) 12.20pm Mother Couch. (2023, M) 2.10 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 4.00 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 5.40 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PG) 7.35 St. Vincent. (2014, M) 9.30 Winter Boy. (2022, MA15+, French) 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane and Jo connect.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 19. Essendon v GWS Giants.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.00 Kick Ons.
11.30 Evil By Design: End Game. (Malv, R)
12.35 Life. (Madv, R)
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL.
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51)
9GEM (82)
9GEM (82)
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
GLOUCESTER SCHOOL OF ARTS INC.
Notice is given that the Gloucester School of Arts Inc. Annual General Meeting will be held in the Gloucester School of Arts Meeting Rooms, 25 Denison St Gloucester NSW on Monday 28 July 2025 at 1700 hrs Members are invited to attend, and anyone interested in being involved in Gloucester School of Arts activities is welcome.
For further information contact the Secretary - gsofarts@gmail.com or 0428 209 944
Pets
GREAT Groodle pups (Great Dane x Groodle) looking for their forever homes. Mum & Dad available to view, both have lovely temperaments. 1 boy, 8 girls. Wormed, microchipped & vaccinated. $1,200. Ready to go 6th July. Call or text: 0422 070 333 991003003003470 / 991003003003472 / 991003003003469 / 991003003003474 / 991003003003477 / 991003003003463 / 991003003003465 / 991003003003473 / 991003003003462
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
News Of The Area OPINION
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
PUZZLES
DEAR Jasminda, Since the recent heavy rain events, we now have a flock of bin chickens in our yard. They are not a very attractive bird, but I can't seem to shoo them away. How do I get rid of them?
Jonathan R.
Ah, Jonathon
Using the term bin chicken tells me everything I need to know about your position on the Australian White Ibis, despite it being an intelligent and resourceful bird, as well as a native
species. Your Flock of Ibis (not to be confused with A Flock of Seagulls, which would be an entirely different dilemma) is ('is' not 'are' as flock is a collective noun, before you correct me in an online community group) doing an important job in your yard.
Your attempts to shoo them (perhaps you'd prefer them to be rummaging around in a local skip bin) are taking them away from aerating your soil, feasting on insects, and adapting to new environments (such as your drenched yard that currently looks more like a Tough Mudder racetrack from all the vehicle traffic).
Instead of your 'Go Back to Where You Came From' attitude (misguided, since they traditionally inhabit wetlands, which your yard
seems to have evolved into), perhaps you should embrace them as a significant part of Australia's cultural heritage. It is actually our fault that the birds have relocated from their usual habitats and moved to far less suitable urban locations.
I hope this has shed some more light on the matter, and instead of calling them bin chickens (or trash vultures or flying rats or dumpster divers), you will instead embrace their distinctive repetitive grunting sounds (much like a surly Australian teenager) and marvel at them perched in your eucalyptus trees (where they are roosting to escape predators like coastal retirees named Jonathon).
SUDOKU
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Kids Boot Camp 044
Champion for children
By David SMITH
Dungog-Clarence Town
CWA and the Paterson Allyn Williams Science and Ideas Hub are co-hosting a series of free talks titled “Illuminating Local Women”.
The latest speaker, Gillian Calvert AO, has devoted her life to championing the rights and wellbeing of Australia’s women and children.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Gillian has been a driving force in child protection, family support, and systemic reform, earning
widespread respect in public administration and social policy.
In 1999, Gillian made history as New South Wales’ first Commissioner for Children and Young People.
In this pioneering role, she established a new statutory office with a clear mission: to promote the rights, safety, and wellbeing of all children and young people in NSW.
Her approach was distinctive - she insisted that young people be directly involved in decisions affecting their lives.
Acting as a bridge between government, business, and community, she ensured that children’s voices informed policies at the highest levels.
As Commissioner, Gillian introduced the Working With Children Check and helped establish child-safe principles - both world firsts.
She also co-authored the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children, a long-term, cross-jurisdictional plan to safeguard children, working alongside federal, state, and territory governments.
Her career began in Brisbane, where she helped establish a women’s refuge.
Later, as a family therapist in Sydney, she worked closely with children and families in trouble.
She has since contributed her expertise to numerous NGOs, advisory bodies, and research institutions, including a directorship with Life Without Barriers, a national agency supporting foster care, disability, and aged care services.
Gillian remains deeply involved in the sector.
She is a Director of Embrace People & Place, a not-for-profit working with other organisations to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of vulnerable people.
She also serves on the board of the Australian Theatre for Young People - Australia’s leading youth theatre company.
In 2009, Gillian was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in recognition of her outstanding service as an advocate for the rights and welfare of children and youth.
Gillian commutes between Sydney and Dungog, where she shares a 70-hectare regenerative farm
with her partner.
Together, they manage a thriving orchard and garden and run a beef cattle enterprise.
Gillian will speak in Dungog at the James Theatre on Friday, 18 July, at 5:30 pm. Her talk, “A Journey of Collective Strength,” will be followed by an open conversation.
Bookings to this free event can be made at https:// www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1422671.
FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is calling on the Federal Government to urgently revoke the latest National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) pricing changes, warning of the “significant negative impacts on people with a disability living in regional and remote areas”.
The changes, announced following the Government’s NDIS Annual Pricing Review, came into effect on 1 July and altered the pricing structure for allied health services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physiotherapy.
The change also caps travel costs to 50 percent of the hourly charge, limited at 30 minutes (metro) or 60 minutes (remote).
“I recently sat down with a group of local allied health professionals from across the Lyne electorate,” Ms Penfold said.
“Their message was clear: this decision is not
clinically informed, not regionally fair, and not economically sound.
“The consequence will simply reduce service delivery in homes and natural environments, which is precisely where many people need it most.”
Ms Penfold said the impact of the travel cost change would be felt hardest in isolated and rural areas without access to public transport, whose only path to support is through mobile or homebased care.
“This is a city-centric decision that undermines the safety and accessibility of essential services,” she said.
“It does not appear that the regional impacts were properly considered, and I hold serious concerns about the data on which these changes were based.”
Another change in the price review is an expansion of the NDIS’ early childhood approach, which now
supports children up to age nine, from the previous limit of seven.
Remote area loadings have also been discontinued for plan managers and intermediaries.
According to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), a mix of market data, research, and public and industry engagement is utilised to inform changes to pricing arrangements and price limits through its Annual Pricing Review.
“The NDIA regularly reviews and makes changes to pricing arrangements to ensure our approach better meets the needs of participants, their families, carers and providers… [and] remains affordable and in place for future generations of Australians,” the NDIS website states.
“This is done by appointing expert committees, financial benchmarking, and forming dedicated working groups.”
q Gillian with members of a young people’s reference group in 2002.
q Lyne MP Alison Penfold recently met with NDIS providers from across the region.
q Gillian Calvert AO at Parliament House with young people.
No access to Barrington Tops from Gloucester for months
Stroud market calls on local producers
FOLLOWING the success
of its debut on 15 June, the Magpie Market at Stroud District Country Club is calling on local growers and producers to take the market to the next level.
Organised by new Stroud local Victoria Henderson, the market drew a strong crowd and a vibrant mix of stalls showcasing handmade goods, art, vintage finds, and home baking - all set against the stunning backdrop of the Stroud vista.
“Every stall was a celebration of local creativity and small business - we'd love to see produce stalls added next time to make it
even better,” said one enthusiastic market goer.
Victoria, who launched Magpie Gathering to create new opportunities for the town, agrees.
“We’d love to connect with local producerspeople growing fruit, veg, herbs, keeping bees… anyone with something fresh to offer,” she said.
The next Magpie Market is set for Sunday 20 July, and the team is keen to hear from stallholders interested in selling locally grown or made produce.
To get involved or find out more, visit magpiegathering.com or contact Victoria directly via the website.
GREAT Groodle puppies
(Great Dane x Groodle) looking for their forever homes. Mum & Dad available to view, both have lovely temperaments. 1 boy, 8 girls. Wormed, microchipped & vaccinated. $1,200. Ready to go from 6th July. Pics available. Or come visit.
Call or text: 0422 070 333
991003003003470 / 991003003003472 / 991003003003469 / 991003003003474 / 991003003003477 / 991003003003463 / 991003003003465 / 991003003003473 / 991003003003462 /
By John WATTS
ACCESS to the Barrington Tops National Park from Gloucester is presently unavailable because of severe damage to the Scone Road during May’s flooding rains, Access to the Polblue Campground and Thunderbolts Lookout is currently only possible from the Scone side via Tomalla, on the western side of Barrington Tops.
Otherwise, the Park is open as per normal winter conditions, with 4WD trails closed to vehicles, but open for walkers or cyclistsalthough some locations are
closed for safety reasons.
“Visitors can access the Gloucester River and Gloucester Tops precinct of Barrington Tops National Park, which has excellent camping and walking opportunities in the Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area,” a spokesperson for National Parks said.
“Copeland Tops State Conservation Area (SCA) should be open for the July School Holidays following minor repairs and cleanup after the severe weather event in May.”
Those interested in guided tours or the Junior
Ranger program bookings should visit nationalparks. nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/ parks/copeland-tops-stateconservation-area.
Upgrades within the Copeland Tops SCA carpark and visitor precinct are likely to see some temporary closures over the coming months.
“Scone Road remains closed due to a major landslip,” said a spokesperson for MidCoast Council.
“Geotechnical investigations are ongoing [and] long-term remediation works are being planned.
“It is expected to take some months.”
For current road closures, visitors travelling to the Park from the Scone side should consult the Upper Hunter Council website.
Annual farm census underway
NSW LANDHOLDERS are being asked to report their livestock numbers and land use information as part of Local Land Services’ annual farm census.
The Annual Land and Stock Return collects information that helps shape the delivery of animal health and biosecurity services and prepare for emergencies such as bushfires and biosecurity outbreaks.
Landholders must lodge their return by 31 August 2025 via the online portal or by completing the paper form received in the mail.
Local Land Services’ Executive Director Delivery, Rob Kelly, said the Annual Land and Stock Return helped paint a picture of agricultural land use and livestock across NSW at the time of the 30 June census date.
“An accurate snapshot helps the NSW Government respond quickly and accurately to emergencies such as bushfires and floods, monitor flock and herd health and carry out emergency animal disease surveillance,” Mr Kelly said.
“This helps protect NSW
from the threat of pests, diseases and emergencies while supporting primary producers and keeping supply chains strong.
“We recognise many farmers have faced significant challenges recently that have impacted their stock levels, including floods in the Hunter and North Coast regions and drought conditions in southern parts of the state.
“Despite these challenges, it is still important for
everyone to lodge their Annual Land and Stock Return as this information allows us to better respond in emergency situations and deliver timely animal health and biosecurity advice.
“If you need advice or support, please reach out to Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or visit your nearest office.”
There are more than 170,000 landholders across NSW.
Those without stock still need to complete their returns to avoid unnecessary fees.
The Animal Health and Meat Industry Levy is automatically applied to a landholder’s next Local Land Services rates notice if they fail to complete their return.
Landholders can visit nsw.gov.au/alsr or scan the QR code on their Annual Land and Stock Return notice to submit their return online.
Inquiry into conservation hunting bill
AN Upper House inquiry has been established to examine the Game and Feral Animal Legislation Amendment (Conservation Hunting) Bill 2025, a private members’ bill introduced by Robert Borsak MLC of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party.
The bill proposes a number of amendments to the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002, including to abolish the Game and Pest Management Advisory Board and replace it with the Conservation Hunting Authority.
The bill would also recognise and make provision for a right to hunt, and abolish restricted game hunting licences and replace those licences with conservation hunting licences.
The bill additionally seeks to amend laws to establish
MON, TUES, WED & FRI THURS 9AM - 5PM 9AM - 8PM
that Crown land is available for hunting.
Committee Chair Emily Suvaal MLC acknowledged the wide range of views on the bill.
"This inquiry will ensure that stakeholder issues and concerns about the proposed legislation can be adequately considered and addressed by the House when debate resumes on the bill,” she said.
Stakeholders can make submissions until 4 August 2025 by lodging a submission via the committee's website.
The committee will then hold a hearing on a date to be determined.
The committee is due to report by 10 October 2025.
q Barrington Tops National Park. Photo: NPWS.
q The Magpie Market at Stroud is looking to talk to local producers.
q The Annual Land and Stock Return helps paint a picture of agricultural land use and livestock across NSW. Photo: Leanda Connor.
Northern NSW rep side to take on Jets
NORTHERN NSW representative teams will face the Newcastle Jets as part of the A-League club’s pre-season preparation.
Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) will select senior men’s and women’s representative teams to take on the Jets’ two A-Leagues sides.
Similar matches have previously appeared on the football calendar but the formal partnership between Northern NSW Football and Newcastle Jets has cleared the way for the fixtures to return annually.
“We are thrilled to grow our partnership with the Newcastle Jets and relaunch the Northern NSW All Stars v Newcastle Jets showcase matches in 2025,” said NNSWF CEO Peter Haynes.
“Newcastle Jets represent the region’s professional football presence in the A-League Men’s and Women’s competitions.
“Enhancing our strategic relationship with the Jets provides a direct avenue for our most talented players and
coaches to be exposed to elite environments and pathways.”
NNSWF will select its teams from players identified through its premier competitions including NPL Women’s NNSW, NPL Men’s NNSW, HIT106.9 Northern League One, Northern NSW Regional Super League and Premier Youth League.
Newcastle Jets CEO Tain Drinkwater said the matches would be important preparation for the club’s A-Leagues campaigns.
“The All-Stars match will be a great occasion for the Newcastle and northern NSW football family and one of our core focuses is to be a football club that is the pride of the region,” Drinkwater said.
“These two matches will further strengthen our commitment to the community and the Newcastle Jets.
“It is going to be a day of celebration for football in the region.”
NNSWF Technical Director Ryan Doidge was excited to give players another opportunity to shine
Students shine
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
Dungog Public School.
and potentially be identified.
“These matches are a fantastic chance to showcase talented, identified players from NNSWF’s premier competitions from across the whole region,” Doidge said.
“Players like Jason Hoffman, Taylor Regan, Nigel Boogaard, Clare Wheeler, Gema Simon and Jemma House started their journey in our premier competitions before progressing to play at national and international levels.
“I am excited to help provide opportunities for northern NSW players to compete and test themselves in a representative environment against our local A-League program and potentially be identified.”
Peter McGuinness and Jim Cresnar will be the coaching team behind the men’s Northern NSW All Stars while Heath Whyte and Craig Atkins will coach the women’s Northern NSW AllStars team.
The coaches were selected via a merit-based system and will contribute
to the identification and selection of players. NNSWF’s Technical Department will select men’s and women’s 25-player squads made up of the best talent from across northern NSW.
NNSWF will ensure appropriate preparation for its players for the matches
while acknowledging the limited window available.
The preparation program will also respect club commitments particularly during finals series matches.
Final 18-player matchday squads will then be chosen to feature in the matches against the Jets.
Northern NSW All-Star 25-player squads will be announced on NNSWF’s website and social media channels in August. The matches will take place on Saturday 20 September at Darling Street Oval in Hamilton.
The Dungog school community has expressed its pride over Tom and Delilah’s achievements.
“Their dedication, sportsmanship, and
Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, athleticism, and tactical play, the team powered through the competition and emerged as joint State Champions.
outstanding efforts are an inspiration to their peers and a testament to the strength of school sport in regional NSW,” said Jessica Murray, School Community Learning Support Officer.
“Congratulations to both students on representing Dungog Public School with such distinction!”
Delilah took to the field as part of the Girls Rugby 7s squad, who finished the tournament as joint state champions.
q Tom’s rugby league team finished sixth in the state championship.
Day of skill building for aspiring netballers
By Chris KARAS
YOUNG netball hopefuls took to the Raymond Terrace courts last Friday to participate in a Netball NSW Schools Cup introductory mini carnival.
The event was hosted by Port Stephens Netball Association and brought the excitement of netball to primary students in a fun, inclusive and high energy setting.
A total of 350 Year 3 and 4 pupils from 20 local schools braved the chilly and wet conditions for a full day of skill building and team work - learning the finer points of the game in a non-competitive atmosphere.
For many of the 33 teams, it was a fun start to their Schools Cup netball journey, which features structured gameplay and
the chance to represent their school.
Netball NSW Hunter Central Coast Regional Coordinator Kirsten Clarke told News Of The Area that the Netball Schools Cup is designed to provide NSW Primary and Secondary School students “with an opportunity to enjoy netball in an inclusive and fun environment.”
“It allows school aged participants the opportunity to engage in an elevated netball experience through purposefully thought out activations and game play,” she said.
Participating on the day were St Michael’s Primary Nelson Bay, St Brigids Primary Raymond Terrace, Wirreanda Public School Medowie, Grahamstown Public School, Irrawang Public
Raymond Terrace, Fern Bay Public School, Thornton Public School, Dungog Public School, Karuah Public School, Kurri Kurri Public School, Lochinvar Public School, Metford Public School, Rutherford Public School, St Peter’s Primary Stockton, St Paul’s Primary Rutherford, Tea Gardens Public School, Telarah Public School, Tenambit Public School, Vacy Public School and Woodberry Public School.
Students in Years 5 & 6 will return to the courts for competitive Schools Cup action on Thursday 31 July with regional finals taking place in Maitland on 12 September.
Bringing the event to life were the incredible volunteers from Port Stephens Netball Association.
q
School
q Around 350 students from 20 schools participated in last Friday’s Netball NSW Schools Cup mini-carnival at the Raymond Terrace courts.
q Representatives from NNSWF and the Newcastle Jets.
q Delilah took to the field as part of the Girls Rugby 7s squad, who finished the tournament as joint state champions.