Wellnest event unites community for mental health support
By Shannon BENTON
30 YEARS OF CARE
By Lisa WISEMAN
Craig Hamilton, Jye Currie, Sarah Crawford and Matthew Coxhill at the screening of The Promise. Photo: Dave Robinson Photography.
Lisa WISEMAN 0437 315 191 lisa@newsofthearea.com.au
Shannon BENTON 0400 136 360 benton@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
EDITOR
30 YEARS OF CARE
FROM Page 1
Dungog Shire and further afield in attendance.
Palliative Care NSW representative Kate Bowman travelled from Sydney for the event.
Past and present volunteers and committee members, clients, carers and family members gathered to catch up, listen to local speakers and enjoy some tasty treats.
DSPCV provides free, non-medical support to all residents of Dungog Shire diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, as well as their families and carers.
Assistance offered includes transport to medical appointments, a linen service, equipment needed for at-home support, respite, and visits to home and hospital.
DSPCV Management Committee President Margaret Jones welcomed guests and spoke about the organisation’s history.
From a slow start in 1995, the community came to embrace the variety of free assistance.
Margaret told of the challenges during the Covid pandemic, of the organisation’s
name changes, finding equipment and premises, and the need to tailor services like transport to suit locals’ needs.
Stroud business Carly’s Cakes supplied the cake which was cut by Margaret,
current Coordinator Annette O’Neill and the organisation's first Secretary, Elsie Francis. Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward also spoke at the morning tea. He said that volunteers are the backbone of
any community, and specifically thanked the DSPCV volunteers for their commitment and support.
This week is National Volunteer Week (19-25 May), and the Palliative Care Volunteers will have
a display in the window of Davey and Olsen’s in Dowling Street. For more information about volunteering and Dungog Shire Palliative Care Volunteers, please contact Annette O’Neill on 0457846806.
National Volunteer Week 2025
This week, we proudly celebrate National Volunteers Week – a time to honour the incredible individuals who give their time, energy, and heart to support our community.
The 2025 theme, “Connecting Communities,” highlights the vital role volunteers play in bringing people together and strengthening the bonds that make our shire so special. Without their dedication, many of our local services and facilities simply wouldn’t be the same.
To every volunteer – thank you. Your generosity, passion, and commitment make a real difference to our shire every single day.
Dungog.nsw.gov.au
q Some of the current DSPCV volunteers with Kate Bowman from Palliative Care NSW (third from right). Photo: Lyn Moseley.
q Annette O’Neill, Elsie Francis and Margaret Jones cutting the cake. Photo: Lyn Moseley.
q Guests enjoyed sweet treats at the morning tea.
CWA hosting fabric fundraiser
THE Country Women’s Association (CWA) branches of Dungog and Clarence Town are hosting a fabric sale to raise funds for local charities.
Coinciding with the Dungog Knitters’ Picnic, the two-day sale will run Saturday and Sunday 24 and
25 May from 10am to 2pm at the Dungog CWA Hall.
“On Sunday, take a break at our Scone Café, serving fresh scones, tea and coffee while you browse the offerings,” said the CWA’s Cathy Schneider.
“There will be over 175 rolls of brand-new interior
décor fabrics up for grabs - including voiles, sheers, block-out fabric, linens and more.
“These are top-quality designer fabrics from highend brands such as Warwick and Charles Parsons, featuring a modern palette of colours, textures and patterns
Wellnest event unites community for mental health support
FROM Page 1
strengthen connections between local community groups in the wellness space.
The Dungog Shire Community Centre’s Nourish program offered tastings of budgetfriendly, easy-to-prepare meals, receiving positive feedback from attendees who described them as “delicious”.
A screening of mental health film “The Promise” drew 70 to 80 attendees, with many visibly moved by the poignant and enlightening documentary.
The Promise delves into the courageous
life of Craig Hamilton, whose remarkable journey embodies the transformative power of hope and love.
Audience members shared personal stories of mental health struggles, suicide, trauma, and the impact on families during a powerful Q&A session.
Given the sensitive nature of the documentary, event coordinator Sarah Crawford ensured mental health support was readily available.
The Australian Red Cross provided two mental health first aiders, while local counsellors Matthew Coxhill and Martine Brieger, also a Lifeline counsellor,
were on hand to assist anyone feeling triggered by the content.
Dungog Rotary ran a free barbeque, with a special thank you extended to Westwood Providores for their generous donation of sausages.
The Friends of the James Theatre volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly, managing sound, lighting, and projection.
Special recognition was given to Gregg Parrey for his ongoing commitment as booking officer and frontof-house coordinator.
“Our community relies on volunteers, and we all thank them for their tireless efforts,” Crawford said.
“Without them, this event would not have been possible.”
perfect for curtains, cushions and other soft furnishings.
“Craft lovers and dressmakers won’t want to miss the massive selection of patchwork squares and cotton fabric bundles – ideal for quilting, sewing and handicrafts.
“Plus, browse our handicrafts stall, packed with beautiful hand-made goods crafted by our talented members.”
Everything must go, and every dollar supports the CWA’s vital work in our local community.
For more information email cwasecdct@gmail.com or call Cathy Schneider on 0431 000 220.
The Dungog CWA Hall is located at 199 Dowling Street, Dungog.
Raffle success boosts Imagination Library
By Shannon BENTON
THE winners of a Mother’s Day raffle have been announced, with three fortunate locals taking home beautifully curated baskets of delights donated by businesses in Clarence Town and Dungog.
The successful fundraiser was held to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and the Dungog Shire Community Centre (DSCC).
Dedicated volunteer Laurel McBriarty spearheaded the initiative, with support from fellow volunteer Min Boorer.
The pair attended local markets to sell tickets, and their efforts paid off, with over 400 tickets sold and $800 raised to help sponsor more babies in the literacy program.
DSCC President Carol Skafte-Zauss expressed her gratitude for the community’s generosity.
“I would like to thank Laurel for the wonderful job she did and to all the businesses involved who supported us so generously and to all the community members who purchased tickets for this great initiative in our Shire.”
The funds raised will contribute to the ongoing
mission of the Imagination Library, which provides free, age-appropriate books to
young children, fostering a love of reading from an early age.
q Attendees at the Wellnest event. Photo: Dave Robinson Photography.
q CWA member Judy Flannery with a small sample of the fabrics for sale.
q Kerry Skafte and Kate Murphy draw the raffle.
Public hearings on renewable energy impacts
PUBLIC hearings were held in Dubbo and Sydney last week as part of an Upper House inquiry into the impact of Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) on rural and regional communities and industries in New South Wales.
The Sydney hearing featured a number of NSW Government agencies involved in REZs, including independent agencies such as the Net Zero Commission, landowners, environmental groups, and peak organisations such as NSW Farmers, the Minerals Council and Business NSW.
in Dubbo heard from local landowners, community members, renewable energy providers and councils about the development of largescale renewable projects in the region.
The regional hearing
"We want to hear firsthand about the real and potential impacts of REZs
and associated projects on farmers, residents and local businesses,” inquiry chair Mark Banasiak MLC said.
“The hearings are an opportunity to provide a complete story of what has happened and is happening on the ground.
"At the same time, we will
New paramedics for the Hunter
NSW AMBULANCE has welcomed eight new paramedics to the Hunter, following their official induction into the service.
The new paramedics will be based across Hunter Zones 1 and 2, where they will begin 12-month on-road placements to consolidate their training.
“We’re thrilled to welcome eight new paramedics to the Hunter – a boost that will directly
benefit the region’s healthcare services,” said Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley.
“Being a paramedic is an incredibly rewarding career and I’m confident the local community will warmly welcome these new recruits.
“Our focus is on making the Hunter a leading healthcare hub and today’s announcement is another important step towards that goal.”
NSW Ambulance Chief
Executive Dr Dominic Morgan said, “These paramedics and control centre interns are stepping into a role that demands not just clinical skill, but compassion, resilience, and courage.
“Whether responding to emergencies or supporting community healthcare, these graduates will become an integral part of NSW Ambulance.”
also hear from renewable energy providers and the government about how they have implemented their projects and how they are working with the community to deliver the social and economic benefits they have argued will be realised by the transition to energy."
The state’s peak body for agricultural producers, NSW Farmers, appeared at the inquiry on Tuesday.
“Our members are telling us that consultation with farming regions around these projects is still dysfunctional, and this must change if we are to sustain our farming communities,” NSW Farmers
President Xavier Martin said.
“Farmland we need is being taken away without proper engagement or compensation, and then there’s the huge pressure that these renewable projects are putting on local roads and towns during their construction.”
Mr Martin said the NSW Government also had work to do to ensure farmers and communities weren’t unfairly footing the bill for direct and indirect costs and risks associated with renewable developments.
“At the moment, it seems any farmers will have to decommission these renewable installations
once they reach the end of their lifespan, and anyone neighbouring a project isn’t guaranteed any compensation for the impact it has on their farm and its value,” Mr Martin said.
“Transmission lines also pose a real fire risk, and there aren’t any proper protocols in place to manage this.
“These are just some of the issues we must see fixed, so the race to renewables does not come at the cost of our food and fibre, or the farm communities that produce it.”
EnergyCo is in the early stages of planning a REZ in the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
Augsgrid is providing information sessions on the Hunter-Central Coast REZ proposal at the following locations:
Muswellbrook Library: Wednesday 21 May 20254pm - 6pm
Branxton Community Hall: Thursday 22 May 2025 - 4pm - 6pm
Valley Markets Singleton: Sunday 25 May 2025 - 9pm12pm Online webinars will also be held on Monday 19 May from 6:30pm - 7:15pm and Tuesday 20 May from 12:30pm - 1:15pm.
Register via yoursay. ausgrid.com.au/HCCREZ.
Cairns director to share powerful message at Voice screening
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG’s James Theatre will host a powerful screening of Australian documentary “Voice" on Saturday, 31 May, as part of Reconciliation Week events.
The screening will be
particularly significant, with co-director Semara Jose travelling all the way from Cairns to engage with the audience and discuss the making of the film.
Voice follows the journey of the Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing
Good (DIYDG), a group of young Indigenous leaders who embarked on a 3,000-kilometre road trip across Queensland to the Gurindji Freedom Day festival in Kalkaringi, Northern Territory.
Along the way, they shared stories with people they met, aiming to inspire conversations about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
Despite the referendum result, the young leaders in the film continue to demonstrate resilience and determination, using their experiences to highlight the ongoing path forward for First Nations people.
Produced by Ben Lawrence and co-directed by Krunal Padhiar and Semara Jose, Voice is the first major Australian documentary to chronicle the journey of the Voice referendum.
Jose will share insights into the making of the film and the messages of strength, hope, and unity that it conveys.
“This is the strength we have to offer, to teach and share. Join our journey,” said Jose.
q A map of the proposed Hunter-Central Coast REZ. Image: EnergyCo.
q Voice director Semara Jose.
Regional collaboration key for airport expansion
MAYORS and council general managers from across the Hunter took an exclusive tour of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal development on Monday 12 May.
The local governments represented are members of the Hunter Joint Organisation (HJO), a collaborative body that brings together the ten councils in the region.
The tour was led by Newcastle Airport Director Leah Anderson, who also serves as the Mayor of Port Stephens and HJO Deputy Chair.
Joining Ms Anderson in delivering the tour was Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager People and Communications, Burcak Sezer and the Airport’s Planning and Infrastructure team.
The visit provided a behind-the-scenes look at the progress of the terminal, which is on track to open in August 2025.
Once complete, the upgraded facility will position Newcastle Airport as NSW’s second international gateway, unlocking new global routes,
investment, and economic opportunity for the region.
The tour also included updates on the airport’s air cargo advocacy efforts, the continued growth of Astra Aerolab, and regional partnership efforts to attract new international and domestic routes.
Mr Sezer said collaboration was key to realising the full potential of the international terminal for the Hunter.
"The success of this project relies on strong regional partnerships," Ms Sezer said.
"This facility will be a major driver of economic growth – not just for Newcastle, but for every part of the Hunter."
Ms Anderson said the airport expansion will make the Hunter “more connected and easier to explore for both visitors and our local community”.
“This international gateway into our backyard will ultimately generate huge economic activity and is expected to drive increased local investment and support businesses across our region,”
Cr Anderson said.
tourism opportunities open.
In attendance were representatives of Singleton, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog and Newcastle councils.
Cr Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton and Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation said, “As the Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation, representing the ten Mayors
of the Hunter region, we understand the importance of the Newcastle Airport to our region’s ongoing economic transformation.
“This major infrastructure project will enable our region's visitor economy to grow as investment and
“It will provide great opportunities for external investment, driving further development and growth within our region.
“We want to share our breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and worldrenowned vineyards with others and this provides us the opportunity to do so.”
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded
q Representatives from Singleton, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog and Newcastle councils attended the airport tour.
POLICE have charged 627 people with more than 1300 offences during a four-day statewide operation targeting domestic and family violence (DFV).
“Operation Amarok X” ran from Wednesday 14 May to Saturday 17 May 2025, and involved officers from all police area commands and police districts across NSW.
The Domestic and Family Violence Commandled operation also involved
officers from each regions’ Domestic Violence High Risk Offenders Team (DVHROT), along with specialist officers from Raptor Squad, Youth Command, State Crime Command’s Child Protection Register, Traffic & Highway Patrol Command, and the Police Transport Command.
Across the four days, 627 people were arrested and charged with 257 arrest warrants executed.
Police laid 1316 charges
and conducted 1276 bail compliance checks and 12,926 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 535 breaches identified.
Officers conducted 125 firearms prohibition order (FPO) searches, with 100 firearms and 16 weapons seized.
Domestic and Family Violence Corporate Sponsor, Assistant Commissioner
Eviction rules and pet rights change in rental shake-up
By Allanah SCIBERRAS, AAP
LANDLORDS will no longer be able to evict tenants without good cause, marking the end of no-grounds evictions, a reform designed to provide security for millions of renters.
The reform came into effect on Monday, alongside two other key changes introduced under the NSW government's latest rental laws.
Premier Chris Minns described the changes as significant, saying it brings the "rental market into the 21st century".
"These are sensible reforms. With more than two million renters in NSW and over 600,000 investors, we have taken the time to get these major changes right," he says.
The reforms, announced in March, have been labelled a win for the economy, promising better prospects for young workers in one of the world's most expensive cities.
Tenants will also be able to apply for a pet, with owners only able to refuse the request for specific reasons, such as the owner living at the property.
Approval will be automatic if owners do not respond to pet applications within 21 days.
Owners and agents must also provide certain fee-free rent payment methods such as direct bank transfers to renters.
Housing minister Rose Jackson believes the reforms are the biggest step forward for renters in a generation.
"These reforms recognise that pets are part of people's families," she said.
"Renters shouldn't have to choose between a place to live and keeping their companion animal. These changes put
Peter Mckenna, said Amarok X had a focus on protecting young victims with officers from Youth Command attending schools and PCYCs to help educate and engage with young people.
“We know the psychological trauma caused by a child or young person, when they are exposed to domestic and family abuse, can have a lasting effect,” Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“No one – and especially no child – should have to experience violence and should be safe in their own home.
“There have been 160,000 reported incidents of domestic violence in the past 12 months, which is an average of about 438 per day.
"That is unacceptable and is not tolerated by police or our society.”
Locally, officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation after a 37-yearold woman was allegedly assaulted, resulting in a broken jaw and a wound to her leg.
Following inquiries, officers arrested a 44-yearold man at a Maitland home.
He was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with “cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent (DV)”, and “wound person intend to cause grievous bodily harm (DV)”.
The man appeared at Maitland Local Court last Wednesday, where he was formally refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday 9 July 2025.
Elsewhere in the Hunter, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District and the Northern Region DVHROT arrested a man on Velinda Street, Edgeworth.
Police will allege in court the man assaulted a woman known to him at a home in Edgeworth in March 2025.
The 29-year-old man was taken to Toronto Police Station where two outstanding warrants were executed, and he was charged with “assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV)”.
He was refused bail to appear before Toronto Local Court the same day where he was granted conditional bail to appear at the same court on Thursday 31 May 2025.
Last Thursday, officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District attended Newcastle Police Station and arrested a 25-year-old man after he was transferred from
a correctional facility.
Police will allege in court that the man contacted a woman known to him more than 300 times between January and April 2025 and made serious threats of harm, in breach of a current enforceable AVO.
He was charged with 75 offences.
He appeared before Newcastle Local Court last Friday where he was formally refused bail to appear at Wollongong Local Court on Wednesday 4 June 2025.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District also commenced an investigation after a 23-year-old woman was allegedly repeatedly assaulted by a man known to her last Monday.
Following inquiries, officers attached to the Newcastle City Domestic Violence Team attended a home at Jesmond about 2pm last Thursday and arrested a 26-year-old man.
He was taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with multiple offences.
The man was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court last Friday.
Reports of domestic and family-related crime or abuse can be made by contacting or attending your local police station. In an emergency, contact Triple Zero (000).
common sense into the rental system and end the blanket ban on pets."
Victoria recently passed similar laws in March, which included a complete ban on
evictions without a reason.
South Australia and the ACT have already banned no-grounds evictions for both periodic and fixed-term tenancies, while Queensland
and Tasmania have put a stop to only the latter.
Western Australia and the Northern Territory allow no-grounds evictions for all tenancies.
q Police laid 1316 charges and conducted 1276 bail compliance checks and 12,926 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 535 breaches identified.
q "Common sense" rental reforms will give tenants more security and end blanket bans on pets. Photo: Flavio Brancaleone/AAP PHOTOS.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY THE ONE THAT GOT
AWAY
ABC TV, 8.30pm
A will-they/won’t-they romance hidden beneath layers of criminal intrigue and forensic examination, this psychological thriller based on the Welsh series Cleddau is not your average crime series. It follows the hunt for a killer whose modus operandi echoes that of the fictional Heart Knot murders, a crime which detectives (and former lovers) Ffion Lloyd (Elen Rhys) and Rick Sheldon (Richard Harrington, pictured, with Rhys) thought they solved 12 years ago. Amid locals’ fears of a copycat killer, Lloyd is called back to Pembroke Dock, the seaside town she left behind to solve the case.
FRIDAY, May 23
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (PG) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 The One That Got Away. (Premiere, Mal) Two detectives hunt a killer. 9.25 Gruen. (R) The team solves the mystery of the new KFC logo.
The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)
10.30 Big Boys. (MA15+l, R)
11.00 ABC Late News.
11.15 Father Brown. (Ma, R)
12.00 Mayfair Witches. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
MONDAY
THE FLOOR
NBN, 7.30pm
If you’ve found yourself calling out the answers to this competitive quiz show so loudly that you can’t hear the actual contestants, you’re not alone. What started as 81 Aussies standing on a grid of trivia topics is now just nine clever contenders hoping to defend their territory, conquer their neighbours’ tiles and claim the entire board for themselves. Can one of the (unfortunately titled) ‘whales’ hold onto their majority stake? Or will an underdog seize their chance to take over? Host Rodger Corser (right) oversees as the final nine battle it out for the last time. Only one can wipe the floor with their competition and claim the $200,000 grand prize. Let’s duel!
7.30 MOVIE: Call Me Kate. (2023, PGa, R) 9.05 Snowdon & Margaret: A Scandalous Affair. (PGa, R)
10.00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Atlantic Crossing. (PGa, R)
12.10 Rex In Rome. (Mlv, R)
2.00 The Head. (Malsv, R)
3.50 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
TUESDAY ANIMALS UP CLOSE
BERTIE GREGORY
ABC FAMILY, 8.40pm
A cinematographer on David Attenborough’s Planet Earth documentaries as well as a National Geographic explorer, adventurer and wildlife filmmaker Bertie Gregory has fit an incredible amount of experience into his 32 years. For his second standalone series, Gregory braves sub-zero seas, climbs snow-capped mountains and sleeps suspended in mid-air to bring the daily lives of extraordinary animals and the challenges they face to your living room. Tonight’s episode finds Gregory and his team in the Galápagos Islands, where they spend time with marine iguanas, sunbathe with sea lions and swim with eagle rays and sharks. You won’t believe your eyes.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGas) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates share insights and experiences to highlight living well.
9.30 MOVIE: Under The Tuscan Sun. (2003, Ml, R) A divorcée heads to Tuscany. Diane Lane, Sandra Oh.
11.50 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa, R) Farmer Tom meets families in home town visits.
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, 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 12. Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Parramatta Eels versus Manly Sea Eagles match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Sleepless. (2017, MA15+dlv, R) A cop searches for his kidnapped son. Jamie Foxx.
12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple search for a retreat in the Blue Mountains. 8.30 Have You Been Paying
6.00
SATURDAY, May 24
Cycling. UCI ProSeries. Tour of Hungary. H’lights. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic Apparatus World Cup. H’lights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 13. H’lights.
6.30 SBS World News.
6.10
Father Brown. (PGav) Father Brown investigates a death at a dance school.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Dr Turner and Shelagh are blindsided when May’s future with them is called into question.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) After a cycling competition comes to the village of Burwood Mantle, the race leader is murdered.
10.00 Bergerac. (Mal, R) Bergerac goes rogue with a new lead.
10.45 Reunion. (MA15+l, R) A deaf ex-prisoner seeks revenge. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Peter Rabbit. 5.50 Hey Duggee: Songs. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.50 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.
7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (Return, PG) 9.30 Alone Australia. (M)
10.35 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (PG, R) 11.05 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
11.40 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas: The Caribbean. (PG) Takes a look at sailfish hunt.
8.00 MOVIE: The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (1997, PGv, R) A research team is sent to investigate an island populated by dinosaurs. Jeff Goldblum, Julianne Moore, Pete Postlethwaite.
10.35 MOVIE: Con Air. (1997, MA15+lv, R) A parolee is caught up in a hijacking. Nicolas Cage, John Cusack.
12.55 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGas, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Skyfall. (2012, Mlv, R) M’s past comes back to haunt her. Daniel Craig, Judi Dench. 11.30 MOVIE: Double Impact. (1991, MA15+slv, R)
1.35 Destination WA. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A family is feeling cramped in their current home. 8.40 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a house but she wants a Hamptons-style cottage with a pool and he seeks a home with character and a toolshed. 9.40 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems. 10.40 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) 11.40 FBI. (MA15+v, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
SUNDAY,
May 25
6.30 Compass: The Conclave. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (PG) Hosted by Amanda Keller.
8.30 Bergerac. (Ml) Bergerac’s enemies are gaining momentum and there’s a shocking revelation about the ransom.
9.20 Reunion. (Mlv) Brennan and Carly head to his school reunion, where Brennan meets some old friends.
10.15 MOVIE: Strangerland. (2015, MA15+an, R) Nicole Kidman.
12.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R)
12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
2.00 The Split. (Ml, R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin.
6am After Yang.
Continued. (2021, PG) 7.00 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 8.55 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 10.35 Arctic. (2018, M) 12.25pm Rob The Mob. (2014, M) 2.25 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 4.40 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 6.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 8.30 Ben Is Back. (2018, M) 10.25 Stars At Noon. (2022, MA15+) 12.55am Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (PG, R) 9.15 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PG, R)
10.05 Hindenburg: The Cover Up. (PGa, R)
11.00 Face Down: Killing Of Thomas Niedermayer. (Mal) 12.00 24 Hours In Emergency. (Malm, R)
3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls)
8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.
4.10 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
4.35 WorldWatch. 5.00 PBS Washington Week. 5.25 Abandoned Engineering. 7.15 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 15. 1.35am Letterkenny. 2.35 NHK World English News. 5.00
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Finding Graceland. Continued. (1998, PG) 6.50 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 8.30 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 10.30 Bandit. (2022, M) 12.50pm The Daughter. (2015, M) 2.40 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 4.30 Belle. (2013, PG) 6.30 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 8.30 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 10.55 Alcarràs. (2022, M, Spanish) 1.05am Late Programs.
9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Unusual Suspects. (Mad) Looks at some unusual suspects. 10.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Baby In The Suitcase. (MA15+adv, R) 11.30 Autopsy USA. (Ma) 12.30 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PGls) 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Ma) 10.10
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns. 8.30 Fake. (Premiere, Mls) A writer goes on a date with a wealthy grazier after
on a dating app, but comes to believe that the
not be all that he seems. 9.30 FBI. (Mav) The team discovers the kidnappers of a young girl have used her as leverage to carry out a major explosives heist. 11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s
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9GO! (83)
MONDAY, May 26
6.00
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. (Premiere) 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 The Crystal Maze. 9.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo. (PG)
8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Estonia. (PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Classified. (Mlv)
11.35 Kin. (MA15+dlv, R)
2.30 Along Ireland’s Shores. (PG, R)
3.30 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.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal)
8.50 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) The 126 deals with the aftermath of the asteroid crash. 9.50 Code 1: Minute By Minute: The Cronulla Riots. (Malv, R)
10.50 The Agenda Setters. 11.50 Motorway Patrol. (PGa)
12.20 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Premiere, Mal)
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Floor. (Final, PG)
100% Footy. (M)
9News Late.
Aussie Road Train Truckers. (Ml)
Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Mal)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Hamlet.
Continued. (1948, PG) 8.35 Belle. (2013, PG) 10.30
Ordinary Happiness. (2019, M, Italian) 12.10pm Ben Is Back. (2018, M) 2.05 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 3.55 Summerland. (2020, PG) 5.50 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 7.50 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 9.30 November. (2022, M, French) 11.30 Clean. (2021, MA15+) 1.10am The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 3.30 Late Programs. 5.40 The Movie Show.
TUESDAY, May 27
6.00
2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Mlv)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 The Handmaid’s Tale. (Final, MA15+)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Living Black. (R)
11.30 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
2.50 Along Ireland’s Shores. (PGa, R)
3.50 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PG, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 8.15 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 10.20 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 12.40pm November. (2022, M, French) 2.40 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 5.40 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 7.30 The Furnace. (2020, M) 9.40 No Man Of God. (2021, MA15+) 11.35 The Two Faces Of January. (2014, M) 1.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Farmer Jack’s remaining ladies arrive.
8.50 Doc. (Ma) Amy and Jake try to uncover the cause of a unique patient’s worsening condition.
9.50 Accused. (Mad) A wrestling coach goes on trial.
10.50 The Agenda Setters. 11.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R) 12.50 The Act. (MA15+ans, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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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.
Check what’s on at dungogroyalhotel.com.au or call us on 0418 443398
WEDNESDAY,
May 28
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.45 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic. (PG, R) 11.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 3.00 House Of Games. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.55 Going Places. (R) 10.25 MOVIE: The Blood Run. (2024) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Insight. (R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 16. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2024. (Malns, R)
9.10 The Day The Rock Star Died: Michael Hutchence. (Ma, R)
9.40 The Handmaid’s Tale. (Final, MA15+, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 My Brilliant Friend. (Mals)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGal, 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+av, R)
12.15 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Malv, R) 3.35 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R) 4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (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 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 10.50 Late Programs.
THURSDAY,
11.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 12.25 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 1.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R) 6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (PG)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.15 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 8.05 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.00 The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 12.20pm We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 2.00 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 4.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 5.55 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 7.55 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.30 Sin City. (2005, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs.
May 29
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (Final, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The One That Got Away. (Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 3.00 House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
8.50 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic. (Final, PGa)
9.35 The Kimberley. (Final, R)
10.25 ABC Late News.
10.40 The Business. (R)
10.55 Love Your Garden. (R)
11.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
12.30 Rage. (PG)
1.25 Vera. (Mv, R)
4.30 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.30 7.30. (R)
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 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Saved By
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.50 The Australian Wars. (Mav, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Milpirri: Winds Of Change. (PG, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 17. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Our Medicine. (Premiere, PG)
8.40 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley. (Premiere, PGad)
9.40 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mav)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Carmen Curlers. (Mas, R)
1.20 Pagan Peak. (MA15+as, R)
3.05 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R)
4.05 Life In Bloom. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
12.00 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. State of Origin. Game 1. Queensland v New South Wales.
10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 1.
11.00 9News Late.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, 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.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns. 8.40 Elsbeth. (Mdv) A young man is found dead in his car. 9.40 FBI: International. (Mv) A Russian biochemist is assassinated. 10.40 10’s Late News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Cash is offered a clean slate.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) A family’s dog proves a disruptive influence.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) The fourth set of semi-finalists sets out to impress the judges and viewers at home.
10.30 The Amazing Race. (PG)
12.00 Raines. (Mahv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 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. Women’s State of Origin. Game 3. New South Wales v Queensland. 9.35 NRL Women’s State Of Origin Post-Match. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl) 11.30 Next Stop. (PGaw, R)
(R) 3.00
(R) 4.00
Voice. (PGa) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
Or No Deal. 6.30
missing, the squad must determine if he ran away or was abducted. 9.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presented by Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald. 10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 The Project. (R)
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6am The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 7.55 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 10.00 The Furnace. (2020, M) 12.10pm The Two Faces Of January. (2014, M) 2.00 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 3.50 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 5.40 December Boys. (2007, PG) 7.40 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 9.30 Crossing Over. (2009, MA15+) 11.35 Rush. (2013, MA15+) 1.55am Late Programs.
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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
Antique China & Figurines, English Silver, Fountain Pens, Old Jewellery & Watches. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747
General Meeting Wed 21 May 2025 BBQ 6pm - Meeting 6.30pm. Enquiries: Nick Helyer (President) 0418 620 934
Dorin’s Draws
By Paul DORIN
OPINION
On theCouch
DEAR Jasminda,
THE other night, my brother-in-law invited himself over for dinner.
However, I had not prepared enough for him (as he was unannounced), and he got annoyed and left. Now he won’t reply to either my husband's or my messages. How do you suggest I go about this?
Normine B.
Dear Normine,
I'm picking up some pretty serious psycho vibes from your conundrum.
Normine B? Is there a
Norman in the family? Is your surname Bates?
Does he have a penchant for taxidermy and/or a mother in the attic?
I am not here to judge, though, Normine. So let's turn to your question and address the facts. Your brother-in-law arrived unannounced.
This in itself could be normal or aggravating depending on whether you are a social creature or an introvert who likes to get mentally (and in this case gustatorily) prepared for visitors.
When you are not expecting drop-in guests, dinner plans can range from Weetbix (with hot or cold milk as desired) to a toasted sandwich, to a menopausal breakdown where you tell your family you are retiring to the bedroom with a box of Ferrero Rochers and (after
News Of The Area
devoting the past 30 years to meals on the table) they can eat bread and pullet under the table for all you care.
But I digress.
Arriving unannounced for dinner is not acceptable behaviour for anyone, even a relative.
People need to give a bit of notice.
Let's turn to the next piece of information.
You have not indicated how your brother-in-law showed his annoyance.
Did he storm out, his solitary Jatz cracker left untouched?
Did he reverse aggressively down the driveway (narrowly avoiding Maestro, the family dog)?
The evidence is very light on here, Normine.
May I suggest you are drawing connections when they may not exist.
What concerns me most,
is that he is not replying to either of you.
I have a vision of your brother-in-law (aka the unnamed protagonist) driving off (in his 1957 Ford Custom) in the pelting rain. Feeling faint (now is not the time for regret, Normine), and too tired and dejected to continue (Bernard Herrmann's musical score in the background), he pulls into a shady-looking motel (coincidentally owned by your brother) who suggests a simple cheese and ham sandwich in the parlor.
Normine, I suggest you hire a private investigator (perhaps one named Arbogast) to see what on earth is going on here.
Let me know how it all goes.
I will await (eating popcorn) with (Norman-Bated) breath.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Stroud butcher carves out national success
LOCAL butcher and Stroud
favourite Mick Henrickson has proven his skills on the national stage, placing seventh in the prestigious Australian Butcher Wars competition held in Sydney earlier this month.
Representing Stroud Butchery, Mick competed against some of the most talented butchers from across the country in a fast-paced showdown of precision, creativity, and craftsmanship.
The event, part of the annual Meatstock Festival, celebrates the art of butchery and showcases the passion behind the trade.
Mick's performance was a standout, impressing both judges and spectators with his technique, speed, and presentation.
“It was an incredible experience,” Mick said.
“To be in the same room as so many skilled butchers and to walk away with a top ten finish - it’s something I’m really proud of.
“I would also like to
congratulate Nate from Snow and Sons in Wingham for taking out the young butcher award and to Mitch from Snow and Sons who stood up as a second year apprentice and gave his all.
“It’s good to see the next generation of butchers out there and see that the
industry will be in good hands!” said Mick.
Stroud locals and loyal customers are beaming with pride at Mick’s success, which shines a spotlight on the exceptional quality and expertise found right here in the community.
Review launched into ‘doli incapax’
A NEW study by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has found a significant decline in the number of young people aged 10 to 13 years found guilty of a criminal offence in NSW, following a landmark High Court of Australia decision in 2016.
The decision in the case of RP v R clarified the
application of the legal principle of “doli incapax”, which presumes that children under 14 years are incapable of criminal responsibility unless proven otherwise.
The High Court's 2016 decision clarified that to rebut the presumption of doli incapax, the prosecution must prove that the child understood their actions
were seriously wrong, not merely naughty.
The judgement requires prosecutors to provide proof beyond merely showing that the child committed the offence, and that the offence was “obviously wrong”.
Following the ruling, the proportion of 10-13 year olds with a proven outcome in the NSW Children’s Court
fell dramatically from 76 percent in 2015-16 to 16 percent in 2022-23.
Over the same period, the volume of 10-13 year olds charged by police has been mostly stable.
The decline in proven outcomes was accompanied by an increase in cases where all charges are withdrawn by the prosecution, rising from
Drones provide eyes in the sky for Fisheries Officers
THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is harnessing the power of drones to enhance fisheries compliance operations
DPIRD Director Fisheries Compliance
Mika Malkki said fisheries officers are responsible for monitoring the vast coastline and inland lakes and rivers across NSW and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are proving to be a game changer, providing real-time monitoring and surveillance capabilities from distant vantage points.
“The drones can effortlessly reach remote
King’s call-up
areas, capturing vital images and data more efficiently, by not having to deploy major assets like vessels or physically covering ground,” said Mr Malkki.
“Equipped with cameras and sensors, these drones deliver realtime information on illegal fishing activities and environmental damage.
“Drones also play a crucial role in regulating commercial fishing providing increased monitoring capacity of remote activities.”
Mr Malkki said that UAV’s are able to provide Fisheries Officers with critical and timely
tackled.
"The Titans move the ball to the left, the next person who made that tackle was Max King.
"He got back there because he knew how urgent it was for his teammates.
evidence in many cases compared to traditional methodologies,which is essential for compliance operations and investigations.
“UAV technology has proven its effectiveness in the recent apprehension of a 51 year old male on the banks of the Hunter River, who was found in possession of a 70 metre length of commercial fishing net and 38 crab traps alleged to have been used unlawfully in the waters adjacent,” Mr Malkki said.
“This rapidly evolving technology provided Fisheries Officers with the enhanced ability to undertake surveillance from a safe distance and determine a strategic
"That's an action I look for.
"That's the type of player I want."
King will face a far more intimidating environment at Suncorp Stadium when he returns there next Wednesday night.
The front-rower's debut
compliance approach prior to apprehension.
“They also assist in the assessment of the health of marine ecosystems by enabling our teams to survey mangroves and salt marshes, allowing us to better understand the impacts of harmful activities like clearing and dredging of key fish habitats.
“Recent drone flights uncovered illegal seawall constructions and damage to seagrass habitats, identifying unauthorized work not approved by Fisheries or the council.”
The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch line on 1800 043 536 or online at: bit.ly/38lU4OB.
is a long time in the making, after debuting in the NRL with Gold Coast in 2017.
He at times struggled to make the Titans' first-grade side, before being released and shifting to Melbourne midway through 2019.
The grandson of
12 percent in 2015-16 to 53 percent in 2022-23.
There has also been a notable decline in guilty pleas among this age group, falling from 54 percent in 2015-16 to 14 percent in 2022-23.
The findings highlight that, despite the formal age of criminal responsibility remaining at 10 years, it is now very uncommon for a child aged under 14 to be found guilty of a crime in NSW.
Commenting on the findings BOCSAR Executive Director, Jackie Fitzgerald, said that the High Court decision appears to have made it more difficult to convict younger children.
“The trend is most evident in states such as NSW, Victoria and South Australia, which rely on a common law understanding of doli incapax,” she said.
“States which have defined doli incapax in legislation, such as Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania, have not shown a similar decline.
“The result raises questions about how best to support vulnerable young people who participate in crime at an early age in order to reduce future harm to themself and the community.”
Dragons premiership great Johnny King, then missed out on Melbourne's 2020 premiership win after being banned for a hip-drop tackle.
Last week, following the release of BOCSAR’s findings, the NSW Government launched a review into doli incapax.
The review is being undertaken by former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew SC, and former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner, Mr Jeffrey Loy.
The pair will consider how the presumption of doli incapax is applied in criminal proceedings, the impact of its operation on options for intervention, what improvements could be made and a framework for legislation.
They will also consider how doli incapax interacts with the Young Offenders Act 1997 and the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020, and other relevant matters including community safety and the interests of children.
Stakeholders including victims’ groups, local and regional communities, Aboriginal-led organisations and legal and government stakeholders will be consulted as part of the review.
They are due to report back to the Attorney General in the second half of 2025.
But he has turned into one of the most reliable and consistent front-rowers in the NRL at Canterbury, as part of a smaller and more mobile pack.
King's selection still came as something of a shock on Sunday night, picked ahead of the likes of South Sydney forward Keaon Koloamatangi and in-form Wests Tiger Terrell May.
q Stroud butcher Mick Henrickson.
q Mick’s creativity on display.
Police storm house over violent home invasion murder
New award for emergency services volunteers
By Andrea FERRARI
EMERGENCY services
volunteers will be recognised for the first time in the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The Centre for Volunteering added this seventh category to its annual celebration, following the announcement in March of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation.
By Shannon BENTON
KEVIN Neilson marked his 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends at Wallarobba Hall.
Born on 4 May 1935 in Dungog, Kevin was educated at St Joseph’s and Maitland Boys High.
He married Jean Eyb, and together they have shared 58 years of marriage, raising four children – Sue, Jill, Bruce, and Carol.
Now a proud Wallarobba resident, Kevin is also a devoted grandfather to seven grandchildren and greatgrandfather to 14.
A memorable milestone for a cherished community member.
The citation ensures that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during the major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023 are recognised.
The inaugural NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award is also open to community groups and individuals.
“[Emergency service] volunteers are always there to provide care, support, and lifesaving responses during floods, storms, and fires across our beaches and waterways,” Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said.
“This is a wonderful initiative of the NSW Government, and we look forward to meeting many of the inspiring emergency volunteers at our regional ceremonies later in the year.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the new award improves the
recognition of not only volunteers from emergency services organisations, but also informal volunteers and other community organisations.
“It’s just one way to let your local emergency volunteers know their dedication and contribution doesn’t go unnoticed.
“Our dedicated volunteers… are often first on the scene, protecting and caring for us when we need it most.
“Almost everyone knows someone who gives their time as an emergency volunteer.
“I urge you to go online and take the time to nominate them for this important award.”
Nominations can be submitted before 5pm on Friday, 23 May by visiting volunteering.com.au/ awards/about-the-awards.
Last year, more than 139,000 nominees from over 500 organisations were recognised at regional and state ceremonies.
By Sebastian TAN, AAP
A MAN has been charged for his alleged crucial role in a fatal home invasion gone wrong, two and a half years after it happened.
Zachery Davies-Scott was gunned down in front of his pregnant partner inside his parents' home, two days after Christmas in 2022.
A group of alleged attackers stormed the house at Heddon Greta in a night attack.
After shooting the 25-year-old man, the group sped off in a white SUV which was found two months later.
Paramedics tried to save Mr Davies-Scott but he died at the scene.
A 52-year-old woman sustained minor injuries after attempting to fight off the group while two children at the scene and Mr Davies-Scott's partner were physically uninjured.
Heavily armed police stormed a property in Lambton on Thursday and emerged with a man in handcuffs wearing an orange high-vis vest.
The 45-year-old suspect allegedly assisted the home invasion group before and after the murder, police allege.
Police also seized a replica pistol, knuckle dusters, prohibited drugs, and a stolen vehicle during the dawn raid.
The man was charged with murder, possessing an unauthorised pistol and acquiring a firearm while subject to a prohibition order.
He was due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday.
It follows the arrest of three men over the fatal shooting during the spring and summer of 2023-24.
One man was arrested on the NSW Mid North Coast in October 2023, days before police nabbed a second alleged murderer.
A man living in suburban Newcastle was arrested at his home in January 2024.
The trio's case remains in the local court.
The state's chief homicide detective has described the victim's family members as "extremely distressed and traumatised" by the killing.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
THERE is only one notable release in Australian cinemas this week, though it’s likely to be on a fair few “Top 10” lists come the end of 2025.
Lilo & Stitch gets the liveaction adaptation treatment from Disney.
It follows the adventures of the alien “Experiment 626” after he crashes in Hawaii and is adopted by an orphaned child and her older sister.
The original animated film had been developed as a sort of “second-run” feature to the film that Disney had expected to be a major success in 2002, Treasure Planet.
As it turned out, that film was viewed as a disappointment while Lilo & Stitch became a phenomenal hit - a scenario that looks
set to be repeated following the recent relative box-office failure of Snow White.
The director of the original film, Chris Sanders, lends his voice once again to Stitch, the impossibly strong, indestructible, ridiculously cute yet mischievous metaphor for neuro-diverse children.
While newcomer Maia Kealoha plays Lilo, an imaginative, occasionally rebellious child who delights in the natural world while coming to terms with the loss of her parents.
This film is a surefire family night out, with hilarity, tenderness, adventure and heart that will appeal to even the cynical teens.
Plus Stitch is basically a blue Koala; as Aussies we’re obligated to support this one.
q Police have arrested a fourth suspect over the fatal shooting of Zachery Davies-Scott. Photo: NSW Police.
q SES volunteers protecting homes earlier this year.
q Kevin Neilson celebrates his 90th with family.
Celebrating the heart of our community: National Volunteer Week 2025
By John BAILLIE, CEO of ADSSI Limited
AS we mark National Volunteer Week 2025, Neighbourcare proudly acknowledges the vital role our volunteers play in delivering essential home care services across the region.
Volunteering brings mutual benefits.
While we are deeply grateful for our volunteers’ contributions, many also find meaningful personal rewards.
This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” highlights how volunteers help build stronger, more inclusive communities every day. Like all not-for-profit home care providers, Neighbourcare relies heavily on the generosity and goodwill of volunteers. Whether driving clients to appointments, offering social support, or delivering Meals on Wheels, our volunteers are the heart of our serviceand we couldn’t do it without them.
Volunteering enriches lives in countless ways, from developing new skills and confidence to making friendships and maintaining a strong sense of purpose in retirement.
To all our volunteers: thank you.
Your support makes a real difference in the lives of our clients and the wider Dungog community. We appreciate
everything you do. We invite you to join us if you want to make a positive impact.
Together, we can continue to support our community with care, compassion and connection. Call 4992 3348 or visit neighbourcare.org.au.
John Baillie is the CEO of ADSSI Limited.
Neighbourcare is part of its family of brands.
q ADSSI CEO John Baillie.
q Neighbourcare volunteers.
King’s call-up
By Scott BAILEY, AAP
LAURIE Daley has revealed the Max King effort play that convinced him the Canterbury prop was a State of Origin player.
The Maitland-educated King was a shock call up for NSW on Sunday night, named as the Blues' only debutant after Daley's side suffered a number of last-minute injuries.
But the returning Blues coach said he'd already been won over by 28-year-old King, before being completely sold at Magic Round two weeks ago against Gold Coast.
"Max's actions as a footballer go unnoticed by a lot of people but it doesn't go unnoticed by the coaching staff," Daley said.
"There was one particular moment in Magic Round, Max had made a run and got tackled four metres out under the sticks.
"The Dogs moved the ball to the left, they dropped it and then Phil Sami picks it up and runs 80 metres, gets
q Max King's Magic Round game against the Titans has helped earn him a NSW Origin debut. Photo: NRL Photos.