Earth & Elm triumphs at business awards
By Shannon BENTON
REPAIRS REQUIRED
By Shannon BENTON
Xavier and Chel King at the Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards.
By Shannon BENTON
AS AUSTRALIA’S
population ages and health services strain to meet growing demands, there’s a renewed focus on how we die and how
FROM Page 1
counsellor and clinical hypnotherapist, and Chel, a multidisciplinary artist and ceremonial tattooist who uses she/ they pronouns, Earth & Elm has quickly become a safe and affirming haven for those seeking healing, self-expression, and community connection.
“This isn’t just a win for us,” Xavier said.
we can support each other through the process.
The federal government has announced a one-off $25,000 payment to help more Australians die at home, a response to the
“It’s a win for every person who never felt like they belonged in traditional spaces.
“Earth & Elm is about reimagining care, connection, and community.”
Chel echoed the sentiment, adding: “We created this studio as an act of love and rebellion and to see it recognised at this level feels both surreal
fact that while 70 percent of people say they’d like to die at home, only 15 percent actually do.
Jess Watkins, an End of Life Consultant, says these figures highlight the need for proactive conversations and community-led planning.
“Why is there such a gap between what people want and what actually happens?” Ms Watkins said.
“We plan for floods, fires, and other emergencies - why not for death?
“Talking about it won’t bring it closer. It’s going to happen anyway - so why not prepare?”
and deeply affirming.”
Earth & Elm’s offerings range from art therapy and hypnotherapy to ceremonial tattoos, all with a focus on traumainformed, inclusive care.
The pair’s personal experiences with mental health challenges, neurodivergence, and feeling like outsiders in conventional spaces, shape every aspect of the
To help bridge that gap, Dungog will host two community events aimed at bringing death out of the shadows.
The first, a Death Café at the Dungog Library on 25 June at 3pm, will offer a relaxed setting for people to discuss their fears, wishes, and practical steps for end-oflife planning.
“Death Cafés are about creating a safe space to think, share, and grow together,” Ms Watkins said.
“They’re about helping people understand their own values and what they want, so that when the time comes, the people
studio’s ethos.
This win also amplifies LGBTQIA+ visibility in regional NSW, with Xavier and Chel proudly stating, “Our queerness is part of the fabric of Earth & Elm.”
The ripple effects of their work extend well beyond their studio walls, with workshops, oneon-one sessions, and community-based events all aimed at fostering
around them can honour those wishes without making rushed decisions under stress.”
The End of Life Expo follows on 23 July at the CWA Hall from 1-4pm. The expo will showcase practical resources and ideas for making Dungog a more death-comfortable community.
Ms Watkins says it’s part of a broader movement to return death to community hands.
“Death is our last personal natural disaster,” she said.
“By talking about it and planning ahead, we can help ensure that more of us have the kind of death we want - and support each other along the way.”
resilience and connection.
For Earth & Elm, the awards are more than just a trophy.
They’re proof that there’s space and demand for healing that is both meaningful and deeply personal.
To those still searching for a safe place to be seen and heard, Earth & Elm’s message is simple: “You’re not alone. We’ve got you.”
CRAIG HAMILTON
Planned Phone Outage
Gresford Bowling Club is hosting this event for
q Jess Watkins, local End of Life consultant.
AEC formally declares Alison Penfold as Lyne MP
ALISON Penfold is now officially the Federal Member for Lyne, after the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) formally declared the ballot result last Wednesday.
In an electorate reeling from the recent flood disaster, Ms Penfold said the news came at a time when it was difficult to focus on anything
other than supporting the community on its slow road to recovery.
She did however offer thanks to the “hardworking people” who supported her campaign, as well as former Lyne MP Dr David Gillespie for his “guidance and support”.
“I also thank
Charlotte Gillespie for her understanding and support throughout David’s time as Federal Member for Lyne, and the personal support she has given me,” Ms Penfold said.
“I am also grateful for the enormous effort and hard work of the volunteers who helped on my campaign and those who served other candidates.
“It takes a huge number of people to distribute signs, man polling booths,
STATE and Federal governments are delivering more funding to help communities recover from the recent severe flooding.
Support available includes:
• Grants of up to $25,000 for eligible small businesses (with fewer than 20 employees) and non-profit organisations to help clean up and restore their business.
• Grants of up to $25,000 for eligible primary producers directly impacted by flooding to help with clean-up and getting their operations back on track.
• Grants of up to $10,000 for eligible rural landholders
to assist with clean-up, repairs and recovery work, including fixing damaged fences, infrastructure or equipment affected by East Coast severe weather and flooding.
• A $5 million program to clear drainage on private land following Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
• A $180 hardship payment for individuals, capped at $900 for households of five or more, to help cover essential items like food, clothing and medicine following the recent flood event.
Flood impacted farmers and primary producers are
being asked to complete the NSW Government’s Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment (PiNDDA) survey, once it is safe for them to do so, which will inform future recovery.
Premier Chris Minns said he was aware that more support for primary producers would be required.
“In line with the response to the recent floods in Queensland, we will need further assistance for many primary producers on the Mid North Coast,” he said.
“In the coming week I'll be working with the Commonwealth Government to extend grants up to
coordinate plans and clean up after the polls have closed.
“Many people put their shoulders to the wheel, and every one of you should be proud of your efforts and contribution to the campaign.”
Ms Penfold said she plans to put her “extensive
network within parliament” to good use in the MP role, and “work constructively with other parliamentarians and members of the Albanese Government to deliver positive, tangible results and stronger, safer and better communities for us all”.
“I look forward to
working with and on behalf of residents, businesses and industries to create more prosperity and opportunities throughout the electorate, including improved community and social infrastructure, telecommunications, health services, industry and jobs.”
REPAIRS REQUIRED
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trails and roads are in a bad state.
“We need at least $50,000 to get everything back in shape.”
Ms Willcock acknowledged that many local residents were also facing the challenges of water damage.
“We appreciate that everyone has some leak or damage to fix, but if you can help, the money will go to good use,” she said.
The call for donations comes as local businesses continue to show their support for recovery efforts.
Lovey’s Grocers IGA has contributed another cheque from its rewards program, adding to the ongoing backing from businesses across the region.
Howard Glenn, a board member for Dungog Community Projects, thanked Lovey’s and other local groups for their help.
“Lovey’s is one of
$75,000 in harder hit areas so that we can work with coastal communities to get back on their feet.”
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the funding announcement was a “start and a positive move in the right direction”.
“I know that this is not the full amount that we were hoping for and I will keep working with our local Mayors and State MPs to get this increased to the maximum threshold of $75,000 for
several businesses and community groups that have contributed to the Dungog Common over the years,” he said.
“The grants from the government to this region are thin on the ground these days, and we will rely even more heavily on all our local supporters to keep the Common alive and well.”
For more information or to help, contact Howard Glenn on 0409 038 452.
primary producers and $50,000 for small businesses.”
Newly elected Member for Lyne Alison Penfold was less impressed however, labelling the funding “simply not good enough”.
“How could they not assess the disaster as requiring the same response and level of support provided to Lismore in 2022 where payments of $75,000 were provided straight up, rather than in increments?
“Farmers across the
region are facing individual losses of well over $1 million and the impact on the dairy industry is so significant it will have economic implications for Australia.
“Small business owners and operators are a long way from refitting offices, replacing IT equipment or stock, let alone keeping their staff employed.
“I can’t even describe the situation for residents who have lost everything. What will $25,000 get them?”
q Member for Lyne Alison Penfold, who represents the National Party.
q Howard Glenn accepts the donation from Lovey’s Grocers.
DUNGOG HOUSING & INFRASTRUCTURE MASTER PLAN
Help us shape the future of our shire
Dungog Shire is at a turning point, with more people discovering our lifestyle and the new opportunities our region offers. To ensure growth stays true to the charm and character we all value, Dungog Shire Council is developing a Housing and Infrastructure Master Plan to shape the future of our rural lands and guide housing, jobs and infrastructure developments over the next 20 years.
We’re inviting the community to share their ideas and aspirations with us — because we believe the future of the Dungog Shire should be guided by the people who call it home.
Whether you live in town or in the country, whether you’re a farmer, a young person, a business owner, or just someone who cares about your community — your voice matters.
Come along to a Community Information Session:
CLARENCE TOWN
CLARENCE TOWN
ONLINE SESSION
DUNGOG
DUNGOG
ONLINE SESSION
GRESFORD
PATERSON
Saturday 28 June 9am to 12pm
Saturday 28 June 2pm to 5pm
Thursday 3 July 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Saturday 5 July 8am to 12pm
Sunday 6 July 2pm to 5pm
Clarence Town Markets, Clarence Town Bowling Club
Clarence Town School of Arts Hall
See website for more information
Dungog Community Markets, Anglican Church
Doug Walters Pavillion
Wednesday 9 July 6:30pm to 7:30pm See website for more information
Saturday 12 July 2pm to 5pm
Date TBC
Gresford School of Arts
Please keep an eye on our website for more details.
For more information, please visit our website: Dungog.nsw.gov.au
Animal advocates shoot down bill for enabling 'yahoos'
By Jack GRAMENZ and Farid FARID, AAP
plan as enabling a "fringe minority of men" to let loose. A bill before NSW parliament aims to establish a Conservation Hunting Authority, with debate in the upper house taking place on Wednesday. It would better enable "conservation hunting" on private and public land to control invasive animals, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Robert Borsak told parliament. It would also recognise
hunting as a cultural activity with social and economic benefits.
"It is about responsible conservation, ethical hunting and ensuring that our public lands are managed in a way that benefits everyone."
The proposed plan would introduce bounties for killing foxes, cats and feral pigs, which the authority could
oversee, the MP explained.
But Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst described those partaking in such activities as a bunch of "yahoos".
"Recreational hunting is not about conservation," she said on Wednesday.
"This is a fringe minority of people in our society, predominantly men, who like to kill animals for so-called fun. It is a form of dangerous violence.
"Allowing yahoos with very limited training or experience to go out and shoot animals creates an unacceptable animal welfare risk."
Biodiversity Council director James Trezise said co-ordinated baiting and trapping as well as aerial culls are more effective at large-scale population reduction.
"Whilst recreational hunting is a perfectly valid hobby, it isn't an effective tool for invasive species management."
Victoria and the Northern Territory have well-regulated public land hunting programs which have delivered positive pest management results, Mr Borsak added.
The proposed hunting
authority would comprise eight members, half of whom would be nominated by "prescribed hunting organisations".
It would represent the interests of licensed hunters, liaise on land management and make recommendations to ministers on game and feral animal management.
A new licence would be created for conservation hunters, aimed at training them in the use of nightvision technology and infrared scopes and allowing them to use suppressors on rifles.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe defended the government's approach in trying to cull feral animal populations by any means necessary.
"Invasive species are one of the largest harms that occur to nature and to our ecosystems across our stateit is worth billions of dollars of harm," she told parliament.
"This is not going to solve our invasive species problem... but having more people with their shoulder to the wheel being in a position to take out feral animals wherever they are... is something that just helps."
q Hunters would receive a bounty for killing invasive species like pigs, under a bill proposed in NSW. Photo: Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS.
Ex-PM lauded over honours gong but not everyone's happy
By Andrew BROWN and Tess IKONOMOU, AAP
FORMER prime minister
Scott Morrison has been congratulated after receiving Australia's highest civilian honour, but there is at least one call for him to decline the gong.
Mr Morrison is one of 14 people named as a Companion of the Order of Australia in the annual King's Birthday Honours List, alongside filmmaker Baz Luhrmann and Oscarwinning costume designer Catherine Martin.
"I am honoured and grateful to have been awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia," the one-time Liberal leader said in a statement.
"It was an immense privilege to be given the opportunity by the Australian people to serve them as their 30th Prime Minister of Australia.
"Australians responded to these events in the best traditions of Australian patriotism and mateship
with trademark courage and a care for their country and one another."
Mr Morrison led the nation from 2018 to 2022 and his prime ministership was defined by several controversies, including some aspects of his handling of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, the robodebt scandal as well as taking a holiday in Hawaii during the Black Summer bushfires.
It also emerged he secretly appointed himself to five ministerial positions during the pandemic.
Mr Morrison also racked up a string of successes, including his role in helping to establish the AUKUS security alliance and boosting Australia's commitment to the QUAD diplomatic partnership and two free trade agreements.
However, Entrepreneurial and Small Business Women Australia founder Amanda Rose said it was an "insult" Mr Morrison had been honoured.
"I think Scott Morrison should give it back, because essentially they've said he
should be rewarded because of how he handled the COVID pandemic," she told Seven's Sunrise program on Monday.
"It's an insult to people and small businesses that were shut down during the lockdowns.
"You've got things like robodebt and all these other things that are on his list of things that he should not be rewarded for."
Mr Morrison has been congratulated by former coalition colleagues and Labor MPs.
Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce said he wished his former leader "all the best".
Deputy Nationals leader Kevin Hogan noted previous prime ministers had been nominated for the same honour.
"I congratulate Scott Morrison on getting that honour... it goes through quite an independent process," he told ABC's RN.
Labor's Dan Repacholi said being prime minister was not a job for the fainthearted.
"So I do take my hat off to
Morrison and all PMs that were here in the past," he told Nine's Today show.
Every former prime minister has been appointed an AC in the honours list since their inception in 1975, with the exception of Paul Keating, who turned it down.
The 2025 King's Birthday Honours recognise 830 people, an increase of more than 30 per cent from the
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Australia Day Honours.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the honourees exemplified selfless service and integrity.
Mr Morrison received the highest accolade alongside prominent figures including filmmaker Mr Luhrmann and his Academy Award-winning costume designer partner, Ms Martin.
Broadcaster and
along with former NSW deputy police commissioner and royal commissioner into veteran suicide
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Scott
journalist Phillip Adams was also appointed as an AC, as well as author JM Coetzee and businesswoman Jennifer Westacott.
Former Olympic swimmer Nicole Livingstone was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia,
Nick Kaldas.
q Former prime minister Scott Morrison has received the top gong in the King's Birthday Honours List. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS.
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY TRAVELS WITH AGATHA CHRISTIE AND SIR DAVID SUCHET
SBS, 7.30pm
Long before she invented the “whodunnit” and revolutionised the murder mystery genre, Agatha Christie embarked on an epic world tour in 1922. The Miss Marple and Poirot scribe journeyed across the British Empire to see southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, even making a cheeky stop in Hawaii. Having spent more than two decades playing her Belgian detective Poirot on-screen, Sir David Suchet (pictured above) follows in her footsteps.
FRIDAY, June 13
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. A look at the Carlton Gardens site.
8.30 The One That Got Away. (Mal) Investigations intensify as the school gunman is connected to the historic case.
9.25 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
11.20 ABC Late News.
11.35 Father Brown. (Final, Mv, R)
12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
SUNDAY
DANCING
WITH THE STARS
SEVEN, 7pm
Olympians, comedians, news presenters and podcasters abound as a truly stellar line-up of celebrities make their way into the Dancing with the Stars tonight for a new season of shimmies, sashays and spins. Rebecca Gibney (pictured right), Shaun Micallef, Osher Günsberg and Susie O’Neill are among the 12 famous faces undertaking reality TV’s ultimate test. It’s taken weeks of intense training, litres of spray tan and metres of sequinned fabric, but they’re finally ready to show off their fancy footwork and strut their stuff for judges Craig Revel Horwood, Helen Richey, Sharna Burgess and Mark Wilson.
6.00 Mastermind Aust. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles. (Premiere, PGa)
8.25 Ross Kemp: Shipwreck Treasure Hunter. (PGa, R) 9.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PGa, R)
10.25 SBS News. 10.55 The Day The Rock Star Died: David Bowie. (PG, R) 11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 6. 1.25 The Head. (Madlv) 3.20 The World From Above. (R) 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SUNDAY BAY OF FIRES
ABC TV, 8pm
partway between a dark comedy and a quirky thriller breaks
between genres as it charts the exploits of corporate-CEO-turnedfugitive Stella (Marta Dusseldorp, pictured above) while she uses her sharp business acumen to navigate life among criminals and cult leaders in her new community of Mystery Bay. Having stepped in to lead after the presumed death of town matriarch Frankie (Kerry Fox) at the end of season one, Stella has been living a somewhat charmed life for the past year. However, her newfound freedom is shortlived: Frankie’s drug debt hasn’t been paid off, and as her successor, it’s now Stella’s problem to solve.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits Ballarat.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGas) Takes a look at brain health.
9.30 MOVIE: This Means War. (2012, Mlsv, R) Two CIA operatives find themselves vying for the affections of the same woman. Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine.
11.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal, R)
12.35 Nurses. (Ma, R)
1.35 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 15. Gold Coast Titans v Manly Sea Eagles.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Gold Coast Titans versus Manly Sea Eagles match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Exit Wounds. (2001, MA15+lv, R) A Detroit cop encounters corruption. Steven Seagal.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Walking With Dinosaurs. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. Newlyweds decide the location for their first home. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember
6.00
SATURDAY, June 14
(R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Sailing. SailGP. Round 7. 3.00 Cycling. UCI Masters Mountain Bike World C’ships. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 Undermining Nazis: Paris’ Secret Tunnels.
6.30 SBS World News.
6.00 Landline. (R) Hosted by Pip Courtney.
6.30 Australian Story: Nick Cave With Leigh Sales. (R) Nick Cave speaks to Leigh Sales.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (Final, PGa) The Turners receive a surprising request.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Final, Mv, R) Barnaby and Nelson investigate when an unpopular local stable owner dies under suspicious circumstances.
10.05 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) Bergerac must save his daughter.
10.55 Reunion. (Final, Malv, R) 11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm Octonauts And Operation Deep Freeze. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 The Piano. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 11.00 Late Programs.
7.30 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (Premiere)
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (PG)
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10.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 7.
12.35 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R)
1.35 Miniseries: Mayflies. (Mal, R)
3.45 The World From Above. (PGa, R) 4.15 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines
The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A look at immigration, customs and quarantine.
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12.40 Nurses. (Ma, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGal, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 6. Finals.
9.25 MOVIE: 27 Dresses. (2008, PGls, R) A woman attends her sister’s wedding. Katherine Heigl, James Marsden.
11.35 MOVIE: The Sun Is Also A Star. (2019, Ml, R)
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SUNDAY, June 15
6.30 Compass. (PG)
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8.55 Little Disasters. (Premiere, Mal)
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6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Nick Knowles Into The Grand Canyon. (PG, R)
8.25 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R)
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10.25 Tassie Tiger On The Rocks. (PG, R)
11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour.
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9.10
Children’s Programs.
9.50 Motorway
11.50
Seinfeld. 12.35 MOVIE: Searching For Neverland. (2017, PG) 2.45 Jeopardy! UK. 3.45 MOVIE: Speechless. (1994, PG) 5.45 MOVIE: Johnny English. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Catwoman. (2004,
MONDAY, June 16
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PGal, R)
8.25 Michael Palin In Nigeria. (PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 Classified. (MA15+av)
11.30 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)
2.20 The World From Above. (R)
3.25 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
3.55 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.25 Bamay. (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
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6am Like Father,
Like Son. Continued. (2013, PG, Japanese) 7.15
All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 10.05 Odd Thomas. (2013, M) 11.55 La Tenerezza. (2017, M, Italian) 2pm Tourism. (2017) 3.30 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard. (2009, PG) 5.20 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 7.30 Shayda. (2023, M) 9.40 Birth. (2004, MA15+) 11.30 Rendition. (2007, MA15+) 1.50am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, June 17
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Eden considers letting her dad back into her life.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) The farmers visit their ladies’ families. 9.00 9-1-1. (Mav) Buck’s Halloween decorations become a little scarier than he had hoped.
11.00 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.00 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Malv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
A Current Affair.
LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PG)
100% Footy. (M) 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Aussie Road Train Truckers.
(R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.00 The Point. (R)
12.00 Headhunters. (MA15+av, R)
1.45 Freezing Embrace. (Malv, R)
3.25 The World From Above. (R)
3.55 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
MOVIES (32)
6am Race. Continued. (2016, PG) 6.15 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 8.15 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 10.00 Shayda. (2023, M) 12.05pm Juniper. (2021, M) 1.55 Race. (2016, PG) 4.25 The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp. (1943, PG) 7.30 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 9.40 12 Strong. (2018, MA15+) 12.05am End Of Watch. (2012, MA15+) 2.05 Birth. (2004, MA15+) 3.55 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Dana gets a rude awakening.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGl) Corey makes a heart-wrenching decision.
9.00 Doc. (Ma) Amy, allowed to practice medicine again without supervision, struggles to diagnose TJ’s dad.
10.00 Accused. (Mav) A jewellery store owner is put on trial.
11.00 The Agenda Setters.
12.00 Fairly Legal. (Ma, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62) 7TWO
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.
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WEDNESDAY,
June 18
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.50 Long Lost Family: Born Without A Trace. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 3.00 House Of Games. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour China. (R) 9.20 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 9.50 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (PG, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Going Places. (R) 4.00 The Cook Up. (R) 4.30 SBS50. (PG) 4.35 Jeopardy! 5.00 Letters And Numbers. (PGals, R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Titan Sub Disaster: Minute By Minute. (PG, R)
9.10 The Veil. (MA15+v)
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 My Brilliant Friend. (Mdlv)
11.30 The Wall: The Orchard. (MA15+as, R)
2.00 The World From Above. (R)
3.30 Welcome To My Farm. (R)
4.00 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (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 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.20 Doctor Who. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGa, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 Unbelievable Moments
Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
11.00 Born To Kill? (MA15+v, R)
12.00 MOVIE: Deadly Seduction. (2021, MA15+av, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
News. 3.05 WorldWatch. 3.35 France24 International News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 5.10 The Toys That Built The World. 6.00 Alone Germany. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Life And Death Of Colonel Blimp. (1943, PG) 9.00 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 11.10 Studs. (2006, M) 12.55pm Shiva Baby. (2020, M) 2.25 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 4.25 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 6.00 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 7.40 Bad Eggs. (2003, M) 9.30 Mad Max. (1979) 11.15 Gold. (2016, M) 1.25am 12 Strong. (2018, MA15+) 3.45 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 5.50 The Movie Show.
THURSDAY,
June 19
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The One That Got Away. (Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 3.00 House Of Games. (PG, R) 3.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour China. (R) 9.20 Expeditions. (R) 9.55 Australia. (PGa, R) 10.55 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 2.55 Living Black. (R) 3.25 Going Places. (PGaw, R) 3.55 Plat Du Tour. (R) 4.00 The Cook Up. (R) 4.30 SBS50. (R) 4.35 Jeopardy! 5.00 Letters And Numbers. (PG, R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. (PGhv, R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes. (Return, PGa)
8.30 7/7: The London Bombings. (Premiere, Mal)
Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
9.45 Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip. (R)
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 The Business. (R)
11.05 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 11.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R)
4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington.
9.40 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mav)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 The Silence. (Premiere, MA15+a)
1.05 Pagan Peak. (Mav, R)
2.55 The World From Above. (R)
3.55 Welcome To My Farm. (PGa, R)
4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. State of Origin. Game 2. Queensland v New South Wales.
10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 2.
11.00 9News Late.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mav, R)
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 Find My Country House Australia. (R)
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
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SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 The Lunchbox. (2013, PG, Hindi) 8.25 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 10.00 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 12.10pm Gold. (2016, M) 2.20 Goddess. (2013, PG) 4.15 Children Of Heaven. (1997, PG, Farsi) 5.50 Poms. (2019, PG) 7.30 The Year Of Living Dangerously. (1982, M) 9.40 Two Hands. (1999, MA15+) 11.25 Dating The Enemy. (1996, M) 1.25am Mad Max. (1979) 3.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Presented by Graeme Hall.
8.30 MOVIE: Hidden Figures. (2016, PGal, R) Three African American mathematicians play a vital role in NASA during the early years of the space program. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe.
11.15 To Be Advised.
1.15 Raines. (Mahv)
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 Rugby League. Under-19s State
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BOLD (51)
9GEM
9GEM
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DUNGOG STORE CATTLE SALE
This Friday, 13th June @ 11:30am Dungog Saleyards
60 Steers – 50 Heifers 40 Cows & Calves For a full list of cattle please visit www.dillonandsons.com.au
Further entries are invited and expected
Dungog Ph 02 4992 1704
A/h Kel Sullivan 0427 921 704 or Paddy Dillon 0428 921 009
HEART OF GLOUCESTER DISTRICT
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Gloucester community?
Whether they are a dedicated volunteer, a standout community member, or an all-round legend, we want to hear about them.
Please email with their details and we’ll get in touch to celebrate their wonderful contributions. tracey@newsofthearea.com.au
Position Vacant Driver / personal assistant / cook wanted for senior gentleman who lives in Sydney F-M Tea Gardens T-T. $1,000 pm bef tax. Free Room + Board Lives in M to F Ph 0416 204 324
MOBILITY Scooters A range of pre-loved, all in very good condition From $500-$1600. Can deliver! 0418 430 643
PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1800 ono 0498 176 876
CLASSIFIEDS ads@newsofthearea. com.au
HORSE riding boots Elastic sided, Black leather, ladies, GUC 2 pairs available, $25 per pair: 1 x Dublin 36 (EU) / 5 (AU), 1x Dublin 37.5 (EU) / 6.5 (AU) Dungog area. 0425 334 153
SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique. Make an offer. 4982 3495F270225
STAND Up Paddle board, Kings inflatable Located in HN. $99.00 Call 0493 078 190
(2)
Phone 0423 260 122
VINTAGE cameras Offers accepted. 4982 8787 WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643
AWD, 5 spd manual, cruise control 300,330kms.One owner/driver from new regular serviced. $7500 Medowie 4982 9942
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s,
News Of The Area OPINION
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I am going away with a group of school friends and we are sharing rooms.
To save money, we booked a room with two queen beds, but one of our group members has become an incessant snorer. I'm a light sleeper.
How do I tactfully ask that she is not my bed companion for the weekend?
Debra F.
Dear
Debra,
When a partner snores, it is totally acceptable to poke them and tell them to be quiet, or stomp down the hall to the spare bed, or wake them
in the morning to the soaring vocals of Donna Summer singing State of Independence because you've had no sleep and you're feeling vengeful.
However, those tactics are not ideal when you're catching up with old friends.
A snorer is like a dripping tap or a ticking clock.
Once the snoring starts, a light sleeper will be on the alert, wide-eyed in anticipation of the next snorting eruption.
It's a form of torture.
The longer it goes on, the more desperate the situation becomes as the hours before morning pass as slowly as baggage check-in when you're about to miss your flight.
For the next trip you have to come fully prepared with your good-night's sleep arsenal: noise cancelling headphones or earplugs, an eye mask, some chamomile tea bags and/or something stronger (I don't like to judge, Debra).
You could also customise your response to the sleeping arrangements that come up on the
first night.
If the snorer is near the window, request the bed near the bathroom.
If the snorer likes lots of bedding, say you are a night-sweater.
If the snorer likes their own space, confess that you have been known to spoon your bed partner in your sleep, and you'd hate to be accidentally invasive during your dream about Timothee Chalamet and/or Brad Pitt and/or Ryan Gosling and/or Margot Robbie.
Then again, if you are school friends, you probably know so much about each other that you don't really need to be tactful. That's what's great about long-term friendships.
Just say, 'Cindy, I adore you, but you snore like a freight train that's collided with a donkey. Do you mind if you share your bed with Giselle? She's out like a light every night due to her propensity for expensive red wine and hash gummies.'
That should make things clear for everyone.
Doris - Hello readers of the West. I am
Kids Boot Camp 042
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Cheaper complementary health treatments are on the way
By Sebastian TAN, AAP
WHEN Peter Hill walked into his first pilates class, he had to warm-up for the warm-up.
With a feeble lower back and taut hamstrings, the then 63-year-old was hoping the therapy could aid his pain.
Six years later, he can dart and dash with little-to-no trouble.
"Occasionally I might have a bit of a twinge but I can get out of bed in the morning and do normal stuff without having to warm up," Mr Hill says.
"I jog or run once a week and I never have an issue with my hamstrings, and my back is significantly better."
The additional good news is that pilates-goers like Mr Hill can soon expect their classes will be cheaper after federal health minister Mark Butler promised during the election campaign that private insurers would be obliged to cover some complementary treatments.
A spokesperson for his office says the scheme's rollout is imminent.
Complementary medicines are therapies that accompany pharmaceutical treatments with the aim of promoting holistic health.
A study found that of the millions of Australians who use them, more than 50 percent do so the same day they take their pharmaceutical medicine.
The therapies include yoga, pilates, tai chi, shiatsu, naturopathy and the Alexander technique, as well as a range of western herbal medicines, and they will be covered by private insurers.
A review recommended the government subsidise all seven after finding they were moderately effective and safe.
This represents a back-
track on the 2019 exclusion of 16 natural therapies, which saw insurers lose rebates.
"Coverage of natural therapies remains a decision for insurers," according to Mr Butler's office.
"Insurers which choose to cover the therapies will work with the natural therapies sector on coverage and to re-establish provider credentialing.
"The government will ensure timely re-inclusion of benefits for natural therapies, so this coverage is available as soon as possible."
The opposition matched Labor's promise with spokeswoman Anne Ruston saying the coalition was "strongly committed to strengthening preventative health outcomes... and these decisions are in line with that focus".
Bupa is already on board, telling AAP it will welcome the subsidies.
However, Private Healthcare Australia policy director Ben Harris says some firms may only take up the movement-based therapies such as yoga, tai chi and pilates.
"The evidence is quite clear that in certain circumstances for certain people, these therapies can make a really big difference and the best thing with healthcare is you need as many options on the table as possible," he says.
"It's getting better all the time... but the broad research is still yet to be done for the community as a whole."
Why though are complementary medicines important?
Well, chronic disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, killing around 41 million people each year, while researchers say
natural therapies alongside traditional medicines can help treat chronic symptoms and restore body function.
Insurers in Canada, India and the UK are already rebating complementary medicines, while Australia's decision comes nine months after the National Disability Insurance Scheme removed subsidies for therapies like yoga, cuddle therapy and hypnotherapy.
Then NDIS head Bill Shorten said these treatments should have never been on the list.
But the federal review released in April, said yoga in particular had "some benefit" for people compared to individuals who don't participate.
Still, some doctors are sceptical.
The Australian Medical Association says people should remain cautious with
some of the movement-based treatments.
It also warns patients not to stop taking pharmaceutical medicines.
"While evidence-based complementary medicine can play a role in patient care under the guidance of a doctor, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of most complementary medicines," the association says.
"People need to be extremely careful if they are sourcing herbal supplements because some are potentially harmful and it's very difficult to be certain about what they contain.
"Some have the potential to cause adverse reactions or interact with conventional medicines."
Joanna Harnett, an Associate Professor specialising in complementary healthcare, says any medicine people
have can cause a reaction but complementary medicines taken orally in conjunction with traditional treatments pose the biggest risk.
Natural therapies like shiatsu and western herbal medicines are derived from tradition compared to more research-based pharmaceuticals.
But National Integrative Medicine Institute director Dennis Chang says the seven subsidised therapies are scientifically safe.
"It's not an umbrella claim but certainly there is some moderate level of evidence to support effectiveness and ... this can be potentially beneficial to patients," he tells AAP.
"The review is not saying yoga can do everything. So, there is a lot more research needed in order to make that more general claim."
Medical economist and academic Yuting Zhang
expects insurers to include natural therapies in their premiums because of their low-cost compared to private hospital cover.
However due to the rising cost of healthcare, she doubts more people will sign up for premiums.
"It would probably be quite smart... to include those kinds of things," Prof Zhang says.
"It would improve the value for private health insurance but in the big scheme of things, I don't think it would have a huge impact."
But 83-year-old Colin who attends pilates every week sees the positives of a few more dollars in his pocket.
"I might actually go to two classes rather than one," he says.
"I really enjoy doing that sort of stretching, that sort of exercise."
Community invited to support art for peace
q
Dr. Sasi Victoire.
By Shannon BENTON
THE creator of a ground-breaking art project dedicated to fostering peace and understanding, is calling on the Dungog community’s support to help bring its powerful message home from Vietnam.
Led by acclaimed artist and educator Dr Sasi Victoire, the project has been in Da Nang, Vietnam, where the legacy of the Vietnam War is still felt.
It seeks to inspire a renewed sense of reconciliation and hope.
Through free workshops, collaborative
art-making, and interactive installations, the project brings together local and international artists to explore themes of healing, cultural heritage, and the individual’s role in creating peace.
In March 2026, the project will showcase works created in Vietnam at Dungog by Design - offering residents and visitors a glimpse of the collaborative efforts that took place in Da Nang.
But to make this vision a reality, organisers are appealing to the local community for financial and in-kind support.
“Contributions from the Dungog community are crucial to help fund venue rental, materials, and promotional activities for the exhibition,” said project lead Sasi Victoire.
“We’re calling on anyone who can to help us bring these important conversations about peace and cultural exchange back to Dungog.”
The project has already fostered dialogue between Vietnamese artists, community leaders, and residents, promoting healing and cultural pride through art.
Now, with the exhibition set to extend these narratives in Dungog, organisers hope to build longterm relationships and encourage personal reflection on what peace means in today’s world.
Local donations and sponsorships will ensure the exhibition’s success and help continue this mission of using art as a tool for understanding and social change.
Community members who would like to support the project are encouraged to visit Dungog by Design or email Sasi directly at svictoire@bigpond.com.
q Private insurers will soon cover some complementary treatments. Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Fundraisers aim to save Community Centre
FUNDRAISERS have been launched to support the Dungog Shire Community Centre amid fears over its future viability.
The centre, which has hosted a Services Australia agency for more than 20 years, provides in-person support for locals to access MyGov, Centrelink, Medicare, and
other critical services.
“In our rural community, many people rely on face-toface, trustworthy support to access essential services,” said manager Kate Murphy.
“Digital systems can be confusing or inaccessible for those without devices, internet access, or digital literacy. That’s where we come in.”
The future of the centre is now uncertain however, due to rising costs.
“The funding allocated to run this service doesn’t come close to covering the real costs involved,” Kate said.
“We’ve been doing everything we can to keep it going, even running it at a loss - because we know how vital it
is to our community.”
A GoFundMe fundraiser had been launched “to bridge the gap and ensure this essential support doesn’t disappear”.
Donations will directly contribute to covering the staffing, administration, and resources required to keep the service running locally in
Dungog.
To donate, visit www. gofundme.com/f/stand-withdungog-keep-support-closeto-home.
In a further support for the centre, a film night fundraiser has been organised for Saturday 28 June at the James Theatre.
“Step into the spotlight
for a night of vintage elegance, delicious dining, live music, and a powerful cinematic experience - all in support of the Dungog Community Centre,” organisers stated.
The event will feature a two-course meal, top quality wines, a live guitar performance and feature film The Great Lillian Hall. To book, visit the TryBooking platform and search “Treading the Boards of Broadway”.
Police honoured on King’s Birthday
THE Minister for Police and the NSW Police Acting Commissioner have congratulated nine serving officers who have been awarded the prestigious Australian Police Medal (APM) as part of the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours.
Nominations for the awards can be by an officer’s peers, commander or a member of the community, and are announced twice a year, in January (Australia Day) and June (King’s Birthday).
Among the recent recipients was Detective Sergeant Craig Ryan, who joined the NSW Police Force on 30 July 1989 and was stationed at Taree Police Station.
During his 35 years of policing, he has performed duties at Taree, Port Macquarie, Forster and Maitland police stations, Northern Region Crime Squad, Manning-Great Lakes and Port StephensHunter police districts, Hunter Target Action Group, Northern Domestic Violence High Risk Offender Team, Northern Region Enforcement Squad and the Proactive Crime Team Manning-Great Lakes.
In 1996 he was designated as a detective, commencing his criminal investigation career, and was promoted to sergeant
in 2023 at the Manning-Great Lakes Police District within the Proactive Crime Team.
Whilst his career has taken him to a number of roles and locations, he is best known for his policing of the ManningGreat Lakes Command where he is one of the most wellknown police officers of the area.
“His relationship with the Aboriginal community is one of great respect,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“Despite his enduring and relentless pursuit of criminals whom he has managed to bring to justice for the most complex and significant matters, the Elders all acknowledge his fairness and tenacity.
“Throughout his career he has utilised the most innovative of methods to stop offending, detect criminals and prove their criminality to the courts.”
Detective Sergeant Ryan brought his experience to the Northern Region Enforcement Squad whereby he trained many operatives in controlled operations, as well as all range of covert techniques to identify and gain evidence of large commercial drug supply on a regular basis.
Another local recipient was Superintendent Shane Cribb, who joined the NSW
Police Force in 1991 at Paddington Police Station.
In 1995 he commenced at the South Region Major Crime, Drug and Homicide Squads conducting protracted investigations into organised and serious crime.
In 2001 Superintendent Cribb was promoted to sergeant at Cobar Police Station in the Western Region and 2003 he was recognised for his contribution and assistance of 1,100 tonnes of donated grain to the Cobar District gripped by drought.
In 2005 he was promoted to chief inspector at the CoffsClarence Local Area Command, before he transferred to the Mid North Coast Police District in 2009.
In 2015 Superintendent Cribb was promoted to a superintendent and the commander of the Canobolas Local Area Command before transferring to the ManningGreat Lakes Police District in 2017, then to the Mid North Coast Police District in 2020 where he is currently.
He is the local emergency management controller for the Mid North Coast and has led responses to floods, bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies in several police districts, including the 2019 Black Summer fires and
most recently fires in October 2023 in the Upper Macleay area west of Kempsey.
In 2019 Superintendent Cribb established the Manning-Great Lakes District Commanders Aboriginal Leadership Group.
In 2022 he was selected to manage the immediate recovery process in relation to the Newcastle-Hunter floods.
In 2023, active armed offenders randomly targeted members of the public and police before killing one of their own associates.
Superintendent Cribb took the responsibility of leading this response.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the Australian Police Medal recognised the distinguished service of outstanding officers within the NSW Police Force.
"On behalf of the NSW Government, I offer my deepest thanks and warmest congratulations to each recipient of this year’s Australian Police Medal,” Minister Catley said.
"This year’s recipients have shown extraordinary courage and commitment, and today, all of NSW stands with gratitude and pride in their honour."
NSW Police Acting
First Nations arts program
On offer is a 12-month, rent-free studio residency at The Creator Incubator (TCI) in Hamilton North.
TCI is a lively creative hub housing over 40 practicing artists and was founded in 2017 by artist and Director Dr Braddon Snape.
"It is an exciting opportunity for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist to immerse themselves in their practice and be part of a vibrant, supportive creative community,” Dr Snape said.
“Since the very beginnings of TCI it has been a long-held goal of mine to engage with and welcome First Nations artists into the TCI community.
“Now, thanks to our patrons and with this residency opportunity, we are clearly able to communicate that desire for sincere cultural and community building with the First Nations community.”
The successful artist will
also receive mentorship from experienced creatives in the field and their own solo exhibition during NAIDOC Week 2026 in The Big Space gallery.
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artists working in any medium - painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, or mixed mediaare encouraged to apply.
Wiradjuri and Wongaibon woman Renae Lamb, the winner of the inaugural TCI First Nations Artist in Residence program, said, “The Creator Incubator Residency has been an incredible opportunity.
“It gave me space, support, and community to grow as a First Nations resident artist and I would recommend it to any artist ready to push their practice further with care and intention.”
Renae will present her culminating solo exhibition
“YANGGU: Songlines as We
Commissioner Peter Thurtell APM congratulated the officers who have been awarded the APM.
“An APM is an acknowledgement of the dedication and exemplary work these officers have shown throughout their careers,” Acting Commissioner Thurtell APM said.
“They have also shown a selfless commitment to serving the people of NSW for many years and decades.
“All these officers should be very proud of their outstanding careers and receiving this honour, and we thank them for their ongoing duty to our organisation.”
“The medal is recognition of the enduring benefit these officers have provided to the NSW Police Force, with their actions exceeding their normal duties and the high level of achievement they have shown in the performance of those duties.
Walk Upon Country” during NAIDOC Week 2025 at The Creator Incubator, from 6-13 July.
All shortlisted applicants for the 2025/ 26 residency will be invited to participate in a group exhibition alongside Renae. Accommodation is not provided as part of the residency.
Artists from outside the Hunter region are
welcome to apply but will need to organise their own accommodation. Applications close at 11pm on Sunday 15 June. The recipient will be announced at 6:30pm on Saturday 5 July. For application details and eligibility criteria, visit: https://www. thecreatorincubator. com/first-nations-artistresidency-2025-2026
q Superintendent Shane Cribb was selected to manage recovery after the Newcastle-Hunter floods in 2022.
A CREATIVE arts hub in Newcastle (Muloobimba) is offering a First Nations Artist in Residence program, with applications now open for Hunter-based artists.
q Renae Lamb. Photo: Stuart Marlin
q The TCI studio space.
Direct Newcastle to Bali flights launched
JETSTAR will launch a direct route between Newcastle and Denpasar (Bali) from 21 October.
Denpasar is a major international aviation hub offering connections to over 40 countries.
The service is set to be run three times a week, and will be the first international route offered from Newcastle’s new international terminal.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the route will open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a “major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity”.
“The first ongoing international flight for Newcastle Airport is a significant moment for the region’s visitor economy –and we’re only just getting
started,” he said.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington believes the move will facilitate “visitors from around the world” experiencing the Hunter region.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton told News Of The Area, “This route reflects what’s possible when industry and government work together to back regional growth.
“We thank the NSW Government for their partnership in making this international connection a reality for the Hunter region and the Federal Government for supporting the build of our international terminal.
“Bali is one of Australia’s most loved destinations and is the first of many exciting destinations we will deliver.”
Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the new international route is an “exciting milestone as Jetstar continues to significantly expand its network”.
“We're thrilled to be the airline to launch Newcastle’s first international flights in more than five years with our new direct service from Newcastle to Bali,” she said. The route is backed by the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund.
Managed by Destination NSW on behalf of the NSW Government, the Fund offered financial incentives and marketing support to assist NSW airports to secure routes and increase aviation capacity to the state. Applications for the fund were open between February 2022 and June 2023.
Ground-breaking study of local estuaries
By Andrea FERRARI
A MAJOR study of NSW estuaries using a novel technique called eDNA, has created the first biodiversity map of river mouths and coastal tributaries along a 1000 kilometre stretch of coastline.
The study, led by Southern Cross University (SCU), was funded through the Riparian Stabilisation Package of the NSW Estuary Asset Protection Program (NEAP).
Lead investigator Dr Maarten De Brauwer, who is based at SCU’s National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour, said the data paints a fascinating picture of the species living in and around NSW coastal
tributaries, including birds, worms, plants, fish, sharks and invasive pests.
“The data revealed the location of 68 invasive pest species in various rivers, including aquatic weeds, algae and even cane toads further south than previously thought.”
Dr De Brauwer said the project provided muchneeded baseline data for managing critical ecosystems.
“This data can show what is actually happening to our biodiversity in estuaries following disasters like floods and bushfires.
“It can inform management agencies, biosecurity responses and help the ranger network manage these complex and dynamic systems after major
Frustrated fans
by their home fans before rallying for just their third win in 11 games.
At full-time, O'Brien called the fans' half-time response "really disappointing" and claimed those who booed "don't know anything about rugby league, and they're probably the ones who cheered at the end".
On Friday, O'Brien explained he had been
walking to the dressing sheds from the coaches' box when the booing occurred, so he was unaware of it until the post-match press conference.
"I was unprepared for that question... I went straight into protection mode for our playing group," O'Brien said.
"That's not an excuse, I'm here to own that that's not how I feel about our members. I understand we're here because of those people.
disasters to support species recovery.”
This baseline is already being put to the test.
Dr De Brauwer’s team recently returned to sample sites following Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the extreme rain events of March.
This will be a valuable addition to the current mapping, which includes more than 7000 species.
The data is represented in an interactive map on the website of the lab that completed the DNA analysis, Wilderlab.
Some of the sample sites produced surprising results.
“We found water buffalo DNA in the Richmond River, very far from where you would expect to find it.
“When we went to look for the source, we found a horse trainer along the
"I apologise unreservedly to our members and fans that I offended and I can understand why they would be offended."
Through 14 rounds, the Knights have had statistically the worst attack in the NRL and had lost four consecutive games at home before the comeback win on Thursday night.
O'Brien's job has come under scrutiny with the Knights languishing in the bottom four, and the coach understood recent results would have left the fans frustrated.
"Our members have a right to let us know when we've fallen short," he said.
"They're bigger than me. They have every right (to boo) and the reality is we haven't given them the performances recently for them to be cheering about."
O'Brien planned to apologise to the playing group on Friday and was particularly disappointed with his comments given the Knights' fan base is traditionally among the most loyal in the league.
The Knights had the NRL's fourth-largest home crowds
river was using four water buffaloes named Bob, Ben, Bill and Bruce to train horses, which explained it.”
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)
Fisheries Technician Kait Harris, said estuaries - the middle ground between the ocean and rivers - do not have recent statewide biodiversity baselines.
“This data is very valuable to understand how we manage them, particularly in challenging circumstances like natural disasters.
on average last year despite a middling season that finished with an elimination final loss.
Even when they collected three wooden spoons between 2015 and 2017, the Knights' average home crowds remained in the top half of the 16 NRL clubs each season.
"They sit through all types of weather and all sorts of scorelines with unwavering loyalty," O'Brien said.
"I'm disappointed that I let them down with an emotional response, looking to protect the playing group when I didn't have all the
“When we are sampling, people are really interested in what we are doing.
“Everyone in the community uses estuaries for recreational fishing, swimming, or even work.
“It’s a very visible ecosystem that can be heavily impacted by natural disasters.”
Indigenous ranger groups have been important partners in the project, helping to collect samples and contributing local knowledge about sample sites.
facts.
"Hopefully over time I can, by owning this, earn back a bit of their respect because it's not how I feel about them."
Elsewhere, Pearce-Paul is set to help solve the Tigers' personnel issues at second row by joining the club next season.
The Englishman had the best of his 33 NRL games in the Knights' win on Thursday night and is expected to join Samuela Fainu as a firstchoice second-rower at the Tigers next season.
q Minister Steve Kamper at Newcastle Airport for the announcement.
q Dr Maarten De Brauwer of SCU and Fisheries Technician Kait Harris conduct estuarine monitoring in Yamba.
q Dr Maarten De Brauwer and Kait Harris collect samples to send to Wilderlab for processing.
Frustrated fans
