Dungog prints towards peace
By Lisa WISEMAN
To
DEPUTY APPOINTED
Workshop tutors Sasi Victoire and Leigh Nankervis.
REPORTERS
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
BUSINESS ADVERTISING
02 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au
www.newsofthearea.com.au
We have this Printed Edition available online for FREE, as well as archive editions.
You can also Subscribe, for FREE, and we will email you the Printed Edition Flipbook each week.
CLASSIFIEDS
Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone us: (02) 4981 8882 Mon, Tue, Wed or Fri Phone line Open 9am -2pm
OUTLETS
Where you can pick up your paper If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us. media@newsofthearea.com.au
Clarence Town
Clarence Town IGA
Clarence Town Post Office
Clarence Town Bowling Club
Paterson
Paterson Friendly Grocer
Paterson Service Station
Paterson Country Cafe/Newsagent
Vacy
Vacy General Store
Dungog
Dungog Information Centre
Dungog Newsagent
Lovey's IGA
Dowling General Store
Dungog RSL
Long Room Cafe
Hidden Valley Clothing
Bottlemart
Farmers Warehouse
Royal Hotel
Gresford
Gresford Foodworks
Gresford Garage & Rural
Gresford Butchery Providore
The Beatty Hotel
Council endorses series of motions for local government conference
DUNGOG Shire Council has endorsed a Mayoral Minute put forward by Mayor Digby Rayward and an alternate motion by Cr Steve Low to support and lodge a series of motions for the LGNSW Conference 2025, to be held in November this year.
A workshop held with Councillors on 8 September discussed a number of draft regional motions that were prepared by the Hunter Joint Organisation (HJO) on behalf of the 10 member Councils and in consultation with the Mayors and General Managers.
Council also has an opportunity to lodge an independent motion, in addition to the regional motions.
The supported regional motions developed by the HJO and supported by Dungog Shire Council include:
1. Local funding for Post Mining Land Use: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW and Federal Governments to provide funding support directly to Local Government to guide a coordinated approach to land use and economic opportunities for post mining-related land to support communities impacted by historical and future mine closures.
2. Skills transition: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW and Federal Governments to immediately recommence previously funded initiatives that deliver employment and skills programs locally to transitioning industries.
3. Place planning: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW and Federal Governments to release uncontested funding for local government to support the development of
regionally significant place strategies, specifically for industrial (employment) land, identified in Regional Plans.
4. Local presence: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW and Federal Governments to embed Net Zero government support services and infrastructure delivery agencies, including (but not limited to) the Net Zero Economy Authority, EnergyCo, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Future Jobs and Investment Authority, Department of Transport & Department of Planning within regional communities directly affected by the transition to meet NSW Net Zero targets.
5. Enabling infrastructure: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW and Federal Governments to provide uncontested funding to Councils to deliver local infrastructure
needed to unlock development-ready land in regional NSW to meet NSW housing targets.
6. Re-categorise roads: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW Government to urgently re-categorise roads that meet criteria, or will meet relevant criteria in the short term, and to prioritise recategorisation of Local and Regional roads to State Roads where the road services significant assets to the state including housing, water and energy infrastructure assets and facilities.
7. Betterment funding: That Local Government NSW calls on the NSW Government to provide an ongoing disaster resilience program to provide betterment funding for prioritised infrastructure such as road networks, drainage, bridge and coastal structures that are vulnerable to natural disasters.
Cr Steve Low presented an additional
Dungog prints towards peace
Page 1
Nankervis led the group in designing and making block prints with a peace theme - something close to Sasi’s heart.
She said that “peace has a ripple effect”, and that workshop participants could “impart peace” on others.
An internationallyacclaimed artist, Sasi led similar workshops in Vietnam earlier this year.
Last weekend, she and Leigh helped Dungog locals to explore creativity, connection and peace through art.
While the works had
a peace theme, the group were also encouraged to find their own inner peace through making art.
Attendees cut, inked and printed block prints on a variety of surfaces, from paper to fabric.
Some of the artworks made at the Towards Peace workshop will be shown at an exhibition at Dungog By Design in November.
The workshop participants made 2D artworks to be hung, as well as useful 3D items like tote bags.
The artworks will be available to purchase at
JOIN ME...
Why Downsize?
• Easier to manage and clean
•
•
• Save on power,
DDungog Shire Council specific motion regarding the funding of regional roads and how the NSW Government’s Block Grants formula –which determines the distribution of funds to councils for regional road repairs - is biased towards Councils like Dungog Shire.
Cr Low noted the Block Grant only provides Dungog Council with about half of what is needed for whole-oflife maintenance, and that the funding formula considers the obvious maintenance aspects such as road length and traffic factors, which correctly relate to the function of any particular road. In his motion, Cr Low highlighted that Dungog receives $11,048 per kilometre for its 122 kilometres of Regional Roads, Port Stephens receives $19,071 per kilometre for its 56 kilometres, and Maitland receives $36,450 per kilometre for its 19 kilometres of roads.
October 25th from 10-12noon at the CWA Hall 199 Dowling St, Dungog NSW 2420 (along with) (along with)
• Be honest: Do you use it?
it?
it? • TIP: A clutter-free home is easier to live in now and sells better when the time comes
Prepping Your Home for the Future Market
• Declutter for more space and light
• Fix small repairs before they become big
• A fresh coat of paint in neutral tone?
• Keep the garden tidy
• Take photos while your garden or views are at their best
• Give yourself time to work through both practical and emotional sides of moving
Decluttering: Where to Begin
• Keep / Donate / Sell / Discard
• Start with easier spots like the linen
Sally Kuppers 0438 899 703 Elders Real Estate Dungog 4992 1208
Get a Free Property Appraisal
• Understand your homes current value
• Get informed on local market trends
• Start planning the next stage with confidence
the exhibition.
Funds raised from the sales of works will be donated to the Towards
Peace charity in Vietnam and local causes like the CWA building fund. Artists can choose
how they want the proceeds of their works to be distributed.
q Karyn and Sharon with tutor Sasi Victoire.
Torana time at Lara Aged Care
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG’S Lara Aged Care is set to echo with the rumble of classic Holden engines on Monday, 6 October, as members of the Hunter Valley Torana Club roll in to give residents a motoring treat.
The car show, featuring an impressive line-up of Holden Toranas from various years, mostly from the 1970s, will be held on site at RSL LifeCare’s Lara Aged Care home, at 64 Hospital Road, Dungog.
The event has been coorganised by Hunter Valley Torana Club president Peter Morris and Lara Lifestyle Coordinator Michelle Croxton, who have worked together to make the experience special
for residents.
“It’s all about giving residents the chance to experience something different,” Michelle said.
“For many of them, Toranas were the cars they drove, admired, or saw racing back in the day.
“It’s great to bring back those memories.”
The display will include a range of models, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
While the bulk of the cars will be Toranas, organisers say there may be a few other classic vehicles making a surprise appearance.
Community members who are also part of the club will be in attendance, including local Mel Griffin.
DEPUTY APPOINTED
FROM Page 1
“Our biggest events are run largely by volunteers, our arts scene is thriving thanks to passionate locals, and our businesses are backed by people willing to invest here.
“Council’s job is to make it easier for them, not harder.”
At the same time, Ley acknowledges the important role of Council in providing guiding policies, plans, and frameworks to give the
community and investors’ confidence.
“We should be promoting our Shire, seeking out opportunities, and making Dungog a place people want to invest in,” he said.
One of the biggest challenges, he says, is roads.
With more than 700 kilometres of roads to maintain, no state-classified roads, and a small ratepayer base, Dungog faces unique pressure.
“The state block grant only covers about half of what’s needed to properly maintain our roads.
“The math doesn’t work,” Ley said, praising the Mayor for his advocacy at the Hunter Joint Organisation.
“My job will be to back him and keep the pressure on until we get a fair deal.”
Ley also highlights housing as a key priority, saying Dungog must be ready to leverage federal and state
funding to boost supply, support steady growth, and strengthen local services while protecting the Shire’s character.
“My focus is simple: connect better with our community, create opportunities for young people, back local business and farming, grow tourism, and keep pushing for the fair deal we deserve.
“The energy and ideas are already here. Council just needs to help unlock Dungog’s full potential.”
DEVELOPMENT CONSENT PUBLIC NOTIFICATION APPROVED DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS AND COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATES
Notice is hereby give pursuant to Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (as amended) that the following applications have been granted consent during the period of 1 August31 August 2025
Staff at Lara Aged Care say the event is expected to bring plenty of smiles, with
residents already sharing stories of their first cars and favourite road trips.
The show is free to attend, and community members are welcome to come along,
admire the cars, and chat with their owners.
q Deputy Mayor Liam Ley.
q The car show will feature an impressive line-up of Holden Toranas. Photo: Hunter Valley Torana Club.
Double the music
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG is gearing up for a weekend of outstanding live music, with two of the town’s favourite venues presenting back-to-back national acts.
On Friday night, 26 September, the iconic James
Theatre will host the Spooky Men’s Chorale, presented by Continuous Music.
as seats are not ticketed and it’s ‘first in, best dressed’,” said Ben.
and storytelling, will be joined by acclaimed guitarist Robbie Long.
Howard.
Ben Steer of Continuous Music said excitement is already building for Friday’s show.
“For those of you who have already bought your tickets, be sure to arrive early,
Known for their rich harmonies, quirky humour, and thought-provoking repertoire, the ‘Spookies’ have built a loyal following around Australia with their mix of original compositions and inventive covers.
Then, on Saturday night, 27 September, the entertainment continues at the Royal Hotel with Australian music legend Mic Conway returning to the stage.
Conway, celebrated for his unique blend of song, circus
Together, they will deliver a lively and theatrical performance blending humour, nostalgia, and virtuoso musicianship.
Both Ben Steer of Continuous Music and Howard Glenn of the Royal Hotel, said this weekend is the culmination of a longheld dream.
“Having both of Dungog’s quality live music venues pumping on the same weekend is the culmination of many locals’ efforts,” said
“This not only brings great shows to Dungog, but also brings a lot of people to our town to enjoy music in our unique venues.”
Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to secure their seats while they can.
Tickets for both shows are still available online via the James Theatre and Royal Hotel websites.
With two nights of toptier entertainment on offer, Dungog is set to hum with music, laughter, and plenty of atmosphere.
Trade mission visits Hunter region
HIGH-RANKING
international trade delegates began a threeday tour of the Hunter region on Monday.
The NSW Government invited delegates from Canada, China, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Denmark, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom to tour prominent businesses and industrial sites.
The Trade Mission itinerary included a visit to The Melt, Australia’s first hardware accelerator and industry prototyping lab.
The delegates also visited recyclable solar innovator Kardinia Energy, which has developed silicon free printed solar panels that were used
for British rock band Coldplay’s world tour.
Cutting edge technology and pioneering micro-emulsion flow batteries were on display at Allegro Energy, while regional transition planning and reskilling was discussed at the AGL Hunter Energy Hub and BHP Mt Arthur.
The region is also home to a range of advanced manufacturing capabilities, including med-tech and energy as well as heavy engineering, and is supported by a skilled workforce and strong industry-academic collaboration such as the Newcastle Institute for Energy & Resources.
Delegates also immersed themselves in the unique offerings
of the Murrook Cultural Centre and engaged with two of the region’s leading Aboriginal businesses, Blackrock Industries and Native Botanical Brewery.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “The Hunter region is a hub of opportunity, offering enormous potential across established and emerging industries like advanced manufacturing that can be showcased to global investors.
“This Trade Mission is an excellent opportunity for us to roll out the welcome mat and let our local industry show off their investment opportunities.”
Brett Thomas is Director and Chief Operations Officer of The
Melt in Muswellbrook, which offers startup accelerator programs, design and prototyping services, equipment and tools, and technical specialists to help Australia's brightest hardware startups commercialise their products.
They also provide tertiary integrated learning and STEM student programs, industry microcredentialing and earlystage startup investment through their own funds and investor networks.
The Melt has played a key role in supporting Hunter-based companies such as Allegro Energy and MGA Thermal, providing technical expertise, business support and
capital.
These companies are now recognised as leaders in clean energy innovation, demonstrating the Hunter region’s capacity to deliver world-first technologies.
Brett says NSW Government support is critical to attracting and retaining trade and investment while driving innovation.
The Melt itself has been a direct recipient of government support, enabling it to create, build, scale, connect, innovate and invest in the future of Australian hardware technology startups.
The Melt’s broader mission is to champion regional NSW during the transition to clean energy through advanced manufacturing.
It has established partnerships across the Hunter, New England and the South West Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) and is exploring the creation of Mobile Innovation Labs to extend its services into regional, rural and remote communities.
supported, such as Allegro Energy and MGA Thermal, to international audiences will help open doors to new markets, partners, distributors and investors.
“The Hunter is the heartland of energy production and generation in NSW and as the globe embraces energy transition, there is an incredible opportunity for economic diversification and development.
The Melt Director and Chief Operations Officer, Brett Thomas said, “This Trade Mission provides an opportunity for delegates to witness the world-first innovation occurring within the Hunter region and it’s a chance to reiterate that innovation doesn’t just take place in the metro areas.
“The Melt has a long-term commitment to its program alumni, portfolio companies, partners and supporters.
“Showcasing The Melt and the businesses we’ve
“NSW government investment in domestic manufacturing, the push towards renewables and net zero targets and the faster, more affordable path to establishing hardware startups all highlight the importance of The Melt's role in capitalising on the opportunities for the Hunter.”
q The Spooky Men’s Choral. q Mic Conway and Robbie Long.
Greens to introduce cat containment laws in NSW
NSW laws will be proposed by the Greens in the NSW Parliament in October that would make people responsible for keeping their cat safely at home and give councils the discretion to regulate and enforce cat containment measures in priority areas.
Greens MP and spokesperson for the environment Sue Higginson said, “The failure of the NSW Government to act on cat containment is a tragedy for the environment, and is now a national embarrassment.
“We are now the only state that hasn’t addressed the extinction of native animals as a result of wandering pet cats.
“Protecting our precious and threatened native species is the primary driver for us taking this step, but the truth is that irresponsible cat owners that allow their animals to roam free and unsupervised are not taking care of the animals that they have a responsibility to care for.”
The proposed legislation seeks to:
Amend the Local Government Act 1993 to
allow Councils to make orders on defined areas within the Local Government Area that would require an owner or occupier to take action as necessary to prevent a cat from escaping from premises on which the cat is kept.
Failure to comply with this order would be an offence with a maximum penalty of 8 penalty units or $880.
Amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 to require that a person in charge of any animal, including cats, must not without lawful authority intentionally release an animal from the premises where it is kept unless the animal is accompanied by the person.
This would be in addition to the requirement for a person in charge of an animal to ensure the animal is provided with food, water, and shelter.
A breach of this section would be an offence with a maximum penalty of 8 penalty units or $880.
“Our plan is two fold and acts to protect animals and empower Councils to work for their community,” Ms Higginson said.
“We intend to create a responsibility for cat owners, to ensure that the cat is kept on the same premises where it is cared for with food, water and shelter.
“We also want to see Councils given the authority to make decisions about priority areas in their communities where people can be required to take action to prevent cats
from wandering.”
The NSW government's Animal Welfare Committee, in a report released in August, found a lack of evidence to support mandatory cat containment and cat curfew laws.
“A major issue that emerged throughout the inquiry was cat containment or cat curfews, and whether
or not this should be mandatory,” said Emma Hurst MLC, Committee Chair.
“Overall, many believed that there are benefits to voluntary cat containment, but that the potential negative consequences of mandatory or punitive cat containment laws make them unworkable in New South Wales at present.
“It was apparent to the committee that there is currently insufficient evidence that mandatory cat containment and cat curfew laws are effective, and in fact they could have adverse consequences including the costs imposed on councils and significant increases in euthanasia rates.”
q The Greens’ law would introduce fines for roaming cats.
New vehicles to support disaster response
DISASTER response and recovery operations will be strengthened as the
The vehicles are part of the Government’s fleet replacement program, ensuring
(SES) volunteers have the
Included in this year’s flood rescue fleet upgrades are 10 new High Clearance Vehicles with cranes and specialised equipment worth $800,000 each and 11 light flood rescue Land Cruisers valued at $270,000 each.
The government says the addition of these vehicles to the NSW SES fleet across regional parts of the state will increase volunteers’ ability to
access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding.
NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnson said the vehicles represent a “significant step forward in our flood and disaster response capability”.
“We’ve worked closely with our volunteers and technical experts to ensure these designs meet the realities of field operations - whether that’s wading through more than a metre of floodwater, navigating fire trails, or delivering supplies to communities cut off by floodwaters,” Johnson said.
“This investment brings our total number of high clearance vehicles to 20 and means our dedicated members will be able to work more safely and effectively when the
q
next emergency comes.”
Built at Alexander Perrie & Co at Port Kembla in the Illawarra, the new 4WD flood rescue vehicles are
designed with enhanced offroad capability, and have a custom-built body for flood rescue equipment, as well as integrated stowage for
inflatable flood rescue rafts.
These vehicles are now
being delivered to SES units in Wyong, Kiama, Tamworth, Ballina, Yamba, Orange, Forbes
and Sydney.
The high clearance vehicles are designed to operate in extreme off-road conditions and through floodwaters up to 1.2 metres deep, enabling SES crews to deliver essential supplies, complete rescues, and support other emergency services in remote and hard-toreach locations.
The delivery of the new vehicles comes as SES crews responded to more than 59,000 incidents in the past 12 months, an 24,500 increase from the previous 12-month period, in what has been the busiest year since 2022.
High clearance vehicles will be delivered across the state, including to areas recently impacted by flooding, such as Murwillumbah, Coffs Harbour and Taree.
Others will be operational throughout Ku-ring-gai, Broken Hill, Goulburn, Moruya, Forbes and Dubbo.
Youth crime laws voted down in parliament
THE NSW Labor Government has voted down the Opposition’s Crimes Legislation Amendment (Youth Crime) Bill 2025, which proposed changes to bail and sentencing laws.
The Coalition’s bill sought changes including:
Expanding the definition of repeat offences beyond break and enter and car theft,
to include serious indictable crimes like murder and sexual assault.
Introducing electronic monitoring and mandatory curfews as bail conditions.
Automatically revoking bail for breaches, new charges, or interference with monitoring devices.
Elevating the voice of victims in court through
victim impact statements.
“These are reasonable, practical measures to back our police, stand up for victims, and make sure offenders face real consequences,” Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said.
“Labor’s decision to block them shows they simply don’t care about the safety of regional people.
“Out here, we don’t have
the luxury of turning a blind eye.
“We see the crime, we see the fear, and we see the damage it causes to our community.
“Our police are doing everything they can, but they’re being let down by weak laws and a government that doesn’t have the spine to act.”
OF LIVING ASSISTANCE
Speaking against the bill in parliament, Mount Druitt MP Edmond Atalla said the proposed laws were “costly, poorly targeted and fundamentally inconsistent with ordinary principles of justice”.
“The Opposition's bill may appear, at first glance, to offer a tough response to a difficult issue.
“But, as is often the case, appearances can be deceiving.
“Beyond the rhetoric and examination of the detail is a proposal that will lead to more children languishing on remand, that strips away judicial discretion, and that offers no long-term solution to the problem of reoffending.“
The government says the addition of these vehicles to the NSW SES fleet across regional parts of the state will increase volunteers’ ability to access isolated communities and perform critical rescues during flooding.
BEST
ON THE BOX
SATURDAY HEALTHY, WEALTHY & WISE
SEVEN, 7pm
New host Chrissie Swan (pictured) could not be more excited to be bringing this lifestyle staple back to viewers after almost three decades off-air, gushing: “When I got the call, it took me all of five seconds to say yes!” An avid fan of the series that launched the TV careers of Iain Hewitson, Tonia Todman and Ross Greenwood in the ’90s, Swan is leading a fresh team of presenters who will share their expertise in style, food, home, money, health and travel. It’s a happy homecoming for this beloved format.
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) Hosted by Adam Hills.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T helps the police find out who left a woman badly burned and in a coma.
9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
9.50 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) Maggie falls for an activities director on a holiday.
10.35 The Assembly. (PG, R)
11.20 Silent Witness. (Mal, R)
12.20 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
SUNDAY
I, JACK WRIGHT
ABC TV, 9.10pm
When this greed-driven family melodrama premiered six weeks ago, we mentioned that making a chart to keep track of the extended Wright clan would be wise. At the time, it was tonguein-cheek advice, but as events have unfolded, it’s become almost necessary. Now it’s time to get your notebooks out for tonight’s finale, as the challenge of patriarch Jack’s (Trevor Eve) will reaches the courts and everyone’s darkest secrets are dragged into the open. Nikki Amuka-Bird (pictured) delivers a powerhouse performance as Sally, Jack’s third wife and widow, who’s fighting on multiple fronts at once.
TUESDAY
MURDER IN A SMALL TOWN
Exactly what it says on the tin, this Canadian series is set in a seemingly idyllic town that has more than its fair share of mysteries to solve. Yes, it’s familiar territory, but you get a sense that this version is slightly self-aware. Detective Karl Alberg (played by Rossif Sutherland, son of late acting great Donald) moved to Gibsons, British Columbia, for a quiet life, but that’s further away than ever. Season two saddles the sleuth with an increased caseload, and new complications in his relationship with Cassandra (Kristin Kreuk, above, with Sutherland) as she runs for local council.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (PGal, R)
8.25 Living Black. (R)
9.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PG)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Catch Me A Killer. (Malv)
11.50 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Mav, R)
3.45 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGa, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.30 MOVIE: Jerry Maguire. (1996, Mls, R) A sports agent has a moral epiphany which costs him his job and his fiancée. He resolves to rebuild his career with the one athlete who stayed loyal to him and a colleague who believed in him. Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr, Renée Zellweger. 11.30 GetOn Extra.
12.00 The Front Bar. (Ml, R)
2.00 The Agenda Setters. (R)
3.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First preliminary final. Melbourne Storm v Cronulla Sharks.
NRL Finals Post-Match. A post-match NRL wrap-up of the first preliminary final, with expert analysis and player interviews.
Craig Bellamy: Inside The Storm. (Ml) Profiles NRL coach Craig Bellamy.
Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 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) 6am Children’s Programs. 9.00 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon My Way.
SATURDAY, September 27
6.00 Australian Story: Only Fifteen – Sarah Kopp. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Tambo, Queensland. (PG, R) Guest presenter Tom Forrest heads to Tambo.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PG, R) Humphrey investigates an inexplicable crime.
8.30 Beyond Paradise Christmas Special. (PG) A burglar breaks into four homes.
9.30 Mystery Road: Origin. (Ml, R) Jay’s hopes of a new beginning are shattered.
10.30 I, Jack Wright. (Mal, R) 11.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.10 Tiddler. 10.35 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (Final) 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.20
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (Premiere, PGa)
8.25 75 Years At Longleat. (Premiere) Looks at Longleat house and safari park.
9.20 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Liguria. (PGas, R)
10.10 Great Australian Walks. (R)
11.05 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
2.25 Secret Nazi Bases. (PG, R)
4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 7.15 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 8.50 Sunflower. (1970, PG, Italian) 10.50 White Tiger. (2012, M, Russian) 12.50pm Nostalgia. (2022, M, Italian) 2.55 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 4.40 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 6.40 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 8.30 Moonstruck. (1987, PG) 10.25 The Book Of Delights. (2020, MA15+, Portuguese) 12.20am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, September 28
6.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through The Alps. (Return, PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly. (PG)
8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal) Jay’s brother Sputty is implicated in a murder.
9.10 I, Jack Wright. (Final, Mal) Charges are laid for the murder of Jack Wright.
10.00 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R)
10.25 MOVIE: Embrace. (2016, Mn, R)
11.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (M, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 The Art Of... (PG)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Naachtun: The Forgotten Mayan City.
8.35 The Lost Empire Of Palmyra.
10.20 Bombing Brighton: The Plot To Kill Thatcher. (Malv, R) 11.45 Yellow House Afghanistan. (MA15+aw)
1.35 Women Who Rock. (Ml, R)
2.35 Curious Traveller. (R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.50 Soccer. FIFA Under 20 World Cup. Group Stage. Match 7. Italy v Australia.
Decoding The Antikythera Mechanism. 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.50 Alone Sweden. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big American Road Trip. 9.25 Uncanny. (Premiere) 10.35 Late
The Movie Show. 6.35 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 8.35 Bring It On. (2000, PG) 10.25 True Grit. (2010, M) 12.30pm The Code Of Silence. (2022, M, Italian) 2.45 A Hard Moonstruck. (1987, PG) Becoming Jane. (2007, PG) 8.30 Shakespeare Best Sellers. (2021, M) Nostalgia. (2022, M, Italian) 2.55
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (Premiere, PG) Presented by Chrissie Swan.
8.00 MOVIE: Die Hard. (1988, Mlv, R)
A New York police officer takes on terrorists who have taken over his wife’s Los Angeles office building. Bruce Willis, Bonnie Bedelia, Alan Rickman. 10.45 MOVIE: Contraband. (2012, Mdlv, R)
A former smuggler returns to a life of crime. Mark Wahlberg, Ben Foster. 1.00 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) Irina reveals a family secret to Negrescu.
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 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. First semi-final. Sydney Roosters v Cronulla Sharks. 9.45 MOVIE: Swordfish. (2001, MA15+lsv, R) 11.45 Next Stop. (PGaw, R) 12.15 My Way. (R) 12.30 Rugby Union. Women’s Rugby World Cup. Final. 3.15 Innovation Nation. (R) 3.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.40 7NEWS: The Balibo Five – 50 Years On. Looks back at the killing of five journalists. 10.10 24 Hours In Police Custody: Body In The Grass. (Malv, R) 11.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)
12.55 Miniseries: The Victim. (Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating,
Our State On A Plate.
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
The Garden Gurus. (R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. Michelle and Garry wanted to invest in a property. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) A call comes in for a woman who has fallen off her balcony while trying to retrieve her friend’s cat. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.30 The Gilded Age. (Mav, R) 11.40 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+v, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 The Amazing Race Australia:
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, September 29
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Gladiators. (Premiere) 9.35 The Crystal Maze. 10.20 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)
8.35 Portillo In The Pyrenees. (PGa, R)
9.30 Into South America With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Classified. (Final, MA15+v) 11.40 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
3.00 Curious Traveller. (R)
3.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Harper remains suspicious of Liam Glasser as a wildfire erupts, causing chaos in the city. 10.05 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Return, M) 11.05 S.W.A.T. (Mav)
Hooten & The Lady. (Mav)
Travel Oz. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
7TWO (62)
SBS MOVIES (32)
TUESDAY, September 30
(64)
(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.00 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.20 Bluey. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway Journeys.
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 The Point. (R)
11.30 Spies Of Terror. (Premiere, Mals)
1.40 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. (Mas, R)
2.30 Curious Traveller. (R)
3.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am A Hard Day’s Night. Continued. (1964, PG) 6.25 The Movie Show. 7.00 Becoming Jane. (2007, PG) 9.10 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 11.10 Best Sellers. (2021, M) 1.05pm An Almost Perfect Town. (2016, M, Italian) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.25 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 5.45 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 7.40 The Tracker. (2002, M) 9.30 Open The Wall. (2014, German) 11.15 Late Programs. 6am The World’s Fastest Indian. Continued. (2005, PG) 8.05 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 10.00 Shakespeare In Love. (1998, M) 12.20pm The Tracker. (2002, M) 2.10 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 4.00 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 5.50 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 7.30 An Angel At My Table. (1990, M) 10.25 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001) 12.05am The Tunnel (Part 2) (2001) 1.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Eden walks down the aisle.
My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.00 Murder In A Small Town. (Return, Mav) 10.00 Grosse Pointe
7TWO
(64)
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, October 1
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through The Alps. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.55 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.15 Wallace And Gromit: A Close Shave. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The People Vs Robodebt. (Mal)
8.30 Secrets Of Flying Scotsman.
9.30 Code Of Silence. (Mls)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 COBRA. (MA15+av)
11.45 Freezing Embrace. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. (Man, R)
2.25 Curious Traveller. (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.
VICELAND (31)
6am Morning
Programs. 8.20 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 10.00 Open The Wall. (2014, German) 11.40 An Angel At My Table. (1990, M) 2.30pm Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 4.25 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 6.00 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 7.50 Blow Dry. (2001, M) 9.30 Someday We’ll Tell Each Other Everything. (2023, MA15+, German) Midnight Late Programs.
THURSDAY, October 2
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (Final, R) 10.40 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.10 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) 11.40 If You’re Listening. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Mal, R) 1.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R)
Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R)
ABC Late News.
The Business. (R)
Grand Designs. (PG, R)
Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
12.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.20 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 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 The Secret Life Of The Zoo. 9.20 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.45 The Mysterious
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 10.00 The Lost World Of Joseph Banks. (Mv, R) 11.00 Eye In The Sky: Nordic Wonders. (Premiere, PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Such Was Life. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 8.50 Soccer.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 RFDS. (Return, Ma)
8.30 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu. (PG) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
9.30 House Of Wellness. (PG)
10.30 Chicago Fire. (Ma)
11.30 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (Return, PG)
12.00 Imposters. (Madlsv, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (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 Block. (PGl)
8.45 Clarkson’s Farm. (Ml)
10.05 The Grand Tour. (Ml)
11.30 9News Late.
12.00 Damian Lewis: Spy Wars. (Mv, R)
12.50 Hello SA. (PG)
1.20 Talking Honey. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGal) A
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 9/11: One Day In America. (Final, Ma)
8.30 Heston Blumenthal: Life With Bipolar. (Ma)
9.40 Snowpiercer. (Mv)
10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Davos 1917. (Premiere)
11.55 Blue Lights. (Malv, R)
2.10 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. (Ma, R)
3.00 Curious Traveller. (R)
4.00 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 7.05 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 8.55 Grandpas. (2019, PG, Spanish) 10.45 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001) 12.30pm The Tunnel (Part 2) (2001) 2.20 The Movie Show. 2.55 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 5.30 The Grass Harp. (1995, PG) 7.30 Amadeus. (1984, M) 10.25 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+, German) 1am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
8.30 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (Premiere, MA15+ls) Jim Jefferies reminds Australians of their duty to uphold a certain nationwide practical joke.
9.30 The Amazing Race. (Return, PG) Hosted by Phil Keoghan.
11.00 Gatecrashers. (Premiere)
12.00 Life. (Malsv, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
(62) 7TWO (62)
(64) 7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(34)
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51)
9GEM
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
Motors
Wanted to Buy
War Medals
Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215
WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643
SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique. Make an offer. 4982
BAR table, great for pool or outdoor area. Tempered glass top, aluminium frame with white canvas, storage shelf below. $200 ono 0417 216 598
/ 6.5 (AU) Dungog area. 0425 334 153
VINTAGE cameras Offers accepted. 4982 8787
SUBARU Liberty 1991, AWD, 5 spd manual, cruise control 300,330kms.One owner/driver from new regular serviced. $7500 Medowie 4982 9942
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $7,800. 0415 678 687 2010 Ford Falcon LPG Very good condition $6,500. 0431 607 774
News Of The Area OPINION
DEAR Jasminda,
On my rostered day off last week I went for a day trip to the beach.
After getting a bit too much sun, I rolled over and noticed Amy, who is a junior work colleague, swimming in the ocean with her kids.
She was on a work from home day (approved by me).
She gave me a half-wave and left the beach soon after.
I'm now wondering if this is a regular event.
I often let her work from home so she can manage her childcare commitments, though my understanding was they were in daycare during school hours.
She also meets all her KPIs. How do I manage this?
Dear Pete,
Those of us in a certain age bracket find the whole workfrom-home concept a bit hard to comprehend. Before work-from-home possibilities, work meant getting ready in the dark, making lunches, dropping toddlers off to long day care and/or negotiating with relatives to drop off the school-aged ones, de-latching them from your legs (the kids, not the relatives) wiping their tears from your polyester work jacket (ditto), driving to work in peak-hour traffic (one eye on the road, the other on your watch, since the tantrum meant you were running late), managing to arrive on time after running a red light (ignoring the eye-roll from child-free Lucas from HR), then going to the tearoom for a caffeine pick-me-up to find half a teaspoon left in the Nescafe Blend 43 tin.
That was before work had even started.
Invariably, two hours in, there'd be a call from the childcare centre because the Panadol had worn off and Aurelia was complaining of a headache and runny nose (that she'd obviously picked up from one of the other 20 kids whose parents didn't have work-from-home benefits) so she had to be collected (but not before you filled out a form for HR-Lucas so he could dock your pay).
Now, there is far more worklife balance with previously unheard of leave entitlements such as mental health leave (traditionally resolved or made far worse at the annual staff Christmas party), maternity leave (which would have saved a few marriages in the 90s) and even pet bereavement leave.
With that work-life balance comes a shift as people navigate expectations including the confusing optics of seeing a work colleague at the beach in the
middle of the day.
Pete, if this is a one-off, and if, as you say, your colleague is meeting her KPIs and is a productive staff member, I'd suggest you ignore the beach frolic.
Maybe Amy started her workday at 4am so she could take an extended lunch break.
Or maybe she looked up from
splashing around with her kids and saw Project Manager Pete dressed in nothing but a pair of watermeloncoloured Speedos, and wondered, 'What's Pervy Pete doing down here when he should be at work? Doesn't he live inland on a hobby farm?'
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
Pete D.
Planning approval for renewables network
TO help drive the transition to net zero, the Australian Government has set a target to reduce emissions to 62-70 percent below 2005 levels by 2035.
It is a step up on Australia’s 2030 target - to reduce emissions to 43 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.
The government says it represents a “credible contribution to global efforts to keep global warming well below 2°C, and keep 1.5°C within reach”.
The Hunter Jobs Alliance (HJA) has welcomed the federal government’s announcement.
“While HJA had hoped for a more ambitious target, consistent with states like NSW (70 percent), Queensland (75 percent) and Victoria (75–80 percent), the target remains a necessary step to secure jobs, protect livelihoods, and support economic growth,” said HJA coordinator Justin Page.
“Even at this level, adopting a credible emissions reduction target
THE Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone project has received planning approval after a review of environmental impacts and consultation.
The project has an intended network capacity of one gigawatt (GW) and stretches from the Upper Hunter in the north to the Central Coast in the south.
It is set to be the first renewable energy zone (REZ) in Australia to upgrade existing grid infrastructure such as distribution poles and wires, in order to reduce the impact on communities and the environment.
Two new substations will also be constructed.
is the sensible path forward.
“It provides investors with the certainty they need to back renewable energy projects that will drive Australia’s ongoing energy transition.
“This target is a good start, but the Government must continue to implement the right policy settings – including programs like the $5 billion Net Zero Fund – to ensure investment keeps flowing.
“These policies will support the creation of sustainable jobs,
Full planning approval was achieved following the exhibition of the Review of Environmental Factors and a review of submissions by councils, state authorities, businesses and individuals.
According to the State Government, the HunterCentral Coast REZ network infrastructure has been assessed as having a “relatively low environmental impact”, as most of the works are taking place on existing easements.
The project is now subject to final approvals from the Australian Energy Regulator.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said, “Planning
strengthen local skills, and deliver long-term economic benefits and resilience for regions like the Hunter.”
HJA has consistently called on the federal government to stay the course on climate policy and support continued progress.
“We need a strong, stable, and clear path to Net Zero to encourage the investment that will underpin our continued transformation,” Mr Page said.
“Failing to invest now comes at
approval for the HunterCentral Coast Renewable Energy Zone project is further evidence of progress on a key upgrade that will help keep the lights on as coal-fired power plants retire.
“Upgrading existing distribution poles and wires allows us to minimise the impact on communities and the environment, and speeds up the delivery of this critical infrastructure.”
REZs aim to group new wind and solar power generation into locations where it can be “efficiently stored and transmitted across NSW”.
Five zones across the state have been identified.
Union welcomes emissions target National climate alarm
By Andrew VIVIAN
THE release of the “National Climate Risk Assessment” (NCRA) last week has alarmed climate groups around the country.
The assessment analyses 11 priority risks under three scenarios of 1.5°C, 2°C and 3°C warming.
The 3°C warming by 2090 scenario includes warnings that heat-related deaths will rise by 444 percent in Sydney and 423 percent in Darwin.
It predicts that up to 34 percent of coastal communities (more than three million people) could be at high or very high risk from regular coastal flooding, erosion and inundation and that disaster recovery funding could cost 7.2 times more than it does now.
There will be higher biosecurity risks and increases in the risk of food insecurity because climate hazards will reduce yields for some crops and increase livestock heat stress.
Species will be forced to move, adapt to the new conditions or die out, with 40 - 70 percent of native plant species exposed to climatic conditions they do not currently experience.
The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) said an emergency
response from the Albanese government is essential.
Acting CEO, Dr Paul Sinclair, said children’s mental and physical health is being affected already, and those impacts are getting worse.
“An appropriate response to this alarm bell would be to rapidly phase out Australia’s coal and gas exports – because no matter where they are burned, they are harming Australians,” he said.
“To give Australians and our environment the best chance of holding global warming at the safest levels now possible, Australia should set a 2035 target of no less than 80 percent.”
United Firefighters Union of Australia National Secretary Greg McConville, said the reports highlighted the urgency of the task ahead of policymakers.
He said, “Firefighters are on the front lines of climate change – they put their lives on the line to protect life and property from bushfires and natural disasters.
“[The] reports show clearly that there are actions we must take today to prepare for a greater frequency and intensity of natural disasters in the coming years.
“It is critical that Australian governments invest in the people who
protect our homes, towns, infrastructure and essential services so that Australia can be more resilient in the face of what’s coming.”
Serena Joyner, CEO of Bushfire Survivors For Climate Action said, “The findings in the National Climate Risk Assessment are shocking but not a surprise to our members, many of whom have faced down the terrifying reality of climate change and know what is coming.
“This is a moment for Australia to be courageous and act as fast as possible in bringing down climate pollution, while properly investing in communities facing climate damage, to support them to be better prepared for the consequences.
“It's only fair that the big coal, oil and gas corporations, that have been taking our country's resources and making huge profits, should now help pay to clean up their mess through a climate pollution levy that will directly help these communities."
Farmers, too, are worried.
Verity Morgan-Schmidt is the CEO of AgZero 2030, a group of West Australian farmers, and primary industry professionals and organisations, who have formed a movement to
promote positive responses to Climate Change.
She said, “In response to the release of the National Climate Risk Assessment, West Australian farmers and rural communities need a strong, science-aligned climate target of at least a 75 percent reduction in emissions by 2035.”
Josh Kirkman, CEO of Surfers for Climate said,
a cost: higher energy prices, fewer jobs, and falling investment in our communities.
“More extreme weather events will also cause greater disruption for farmers and businesses.
“By adopting a credible emissions reduction target and backing it with strong policy measures, the Government can protect livelihoods, create new jobs, and support economic security for regional communities across Australia.”
"The NCRA confirms what we’ve been feeling in the water for years.
“Rising seas, coastal erosion, flooding, and storms are hitting harder than ever — and without greater action, we may not be able to ride the waves we love.”
He said that with 80 percent of Australians living within 50km of the beach, the risks go far beyond surfing.
“We’re already seeing the
devastating impact Climate Change is having along South Australia’s coastline.
“As we speak, coastal communities are suffering the dire consequences of the algal bloom that is also wreaking havoc on marine life.
“Protecting the climate isn’t just about protecting waves — it’s about protecting families, entire communities and our unique way of life.”
q The project is set to be the first renewable energy zone in Australia to upgrade existing grid infrastructure such as distribution poles and wires.
q United Firefighters Union of Australia National Secretary Greg McConville, said the reports highlighted the urgency of the task ahead of policymakers. Photo: UFUA.
Barber’s pole worm warning for livestock producers
LIVESTOCK producers are being reminded to monitor their stock for barber’s pole worm, with the recent wet and warmer weather increasing larval pasture burdens, making stock more vulnerable.
Barber’s pole worms (Haemonchus contortus) are about 1.5 to 2.5 centimetres
long and are blood feeders, which attach to the lining of the stomach of livestock including sheep, goats, alpacas and cattle, causing anaemia.
The current conditions across much of NSW are ideal for egg hatching, larval survival on the paddocks and reinfection of stock.
Integrated control programs, including paddock management, worm monitoring and quarantine drenching, can help reduce the negative impacts of barber’s pole worm, according to Local Land Services Principal Program Manager Animal Biosecurity and Welfare, Lyndell Stone.
"Producers should be doing worm tests to work out how high their worm burdens are,” Dr Stone said.
“Talk to your Local Land Services District Veterinarian or private veterinarian about doing a worm test as they can advise on the timing and type of testing and help interpret the results to guide
a treatment and management plan, keeping in mind a longterm strategy is best.
“Proactive producers who have worm tested regularly, understood their property’s drench resistance status, used effective drenches only when necessary and utilised the environment to kill larvae, have had low egg counts, which is pleasing.”
Clinical signs of stock that are affected by barber’s pole worm may include:
• pale gums and conjunctiva (inside the
Did you know with astronomer Dave Reneke
By Dave RENEKE
DID you know the special silicon-based insulation serving as the primary heat shield for the Space Shuttle orbiter sheds heat so rapidly that one side can be held in bare hands while the other side is red hot?
Did you know the International Space Station loses about 25 metres of altitude per day?
Every three months or so, the crew has to adjust the orbit using either its own thrusters or those of a docked Progress cargo ship. Without these boosts,
the ISS would eventually fall back to Earth.
Did you know astronauts grow taller in space?
Freed from Earth’s constant pull, their spines stretch, making them up to five centimetres talleralthough they quickly shrink back when they return home.
Did you know some of the technology created for the Hubble Space Telescope has found its way into medicine, computer chips, and even the prevention of electrical power failures here on Earth?
Space spin-offs really do change lives.
Did you know heat from the core of the Sun takes about a million years to reach the surface?
Yet once free, the light races across space and reaches Earth in just 8.5 minutes.
Did you know almost half of the twinkling “single stars” you see at night are really double stars - or more?
Some systems contain three or even four stars locked in a cosmic dance.
Did you know a simple space pen saved Apollo 11 from disaster?
A vital switch broke inside the lunar module, threatening the astronauts’ return.
Buzz Aldrin jammed the metal tip of a pen into the circuit, bridging the gap and allowing the engine to fire.
Before that mission, they had only used pencils.
Lucky doesn’t even cover it.
Did you know astronauts’ taste buds go on strike in orbit?
Without gravity, fluids shift to the head, causing stuffy noses and dulled senses.
That’s why they love hot sauce, wasabi, and curries in space meals.
Bland food just won’t cut it.
Did you know there are “space burials”?
Companies can launch tiny capsules of ashes into orbit or even towards the Moon.
Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry and science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke both had portions of their remains launched into space.
Did you know space smells?
Astronauts returning from spacewalks often report a scent clinging to their suits - described as “burnt steak”, “welding fumes”, or “ozone”.
eyelid)
• bottle jaw (fluid collecting in a pouch under the jaw)
• lacking stamina, for example they want to lie down when being mustered or moved
• losing body condition and stock deaths.
If you have any concerns about barber’s pole worm, or you notice unusual symptoms or stock losses, contact your Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299.
It’s thought to be traces of excited atoms clinging to the fabric.
Did you know if you cry in space, the tears don’t fall?
Instead, they form floating blobs that cling to your face until you wipe them away.
Emotional breakdowns are best kept short and tidy in orbit.
Did you know a piece of astronaut poop once made headlines?
Early in the Apollo programme, a wayward sample floated around the cabin - causing more panic than any life-threatening malfunction.
Did you know that on the Moon, astronaut Alan Shepard sneaked in a golf club head attached to a tool and hit two golf balls?
One, he joked, went “miles and miles.”
With no air resistance, he wasn’t far off.
Did you know Saturn could float in water?
Its density is so low that if you had a cosmic bathtub big enough, the ringed planet would bob around like a beach ball.
Children seeking homelessness support
By Leigh WATSON
NEW data released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that in the period 2023–24, more than 6000 children across NSW without a parent or guardian, sought help from a specialist homelessness service.
More than 80 percent of these children did not receive support.
In addition to those who are without guardianship and housing, there are 894
children across the state who are under state guardianship in some kind of out-of-home care - either supported residential or foster care.
“Most children who are homeless without a parent or guardian are fleeing homes where they have experienced violence, abandonment or neglect. They go from danger of one kind into danger of another,” Homelessness Australia CEO Kate Colvin said.
The peak body is heading
up the “The Home Time” campaign, an alliance of housing and homelessness organisations calling for a national action plan so children and young people can escape homelessness.
The plan stresses prioritisation of additional housing solutions with wrap around support for 16- to 24-year-olds.
It also calls for removal of the various social housing policy levers that discourage community housing
providers from leasing housing to young people.
“The reality is that there are very few dedicated homes with age-appropriate support for adolescent children and young people.
“The data reveals the magnitude and urgency of a problem that our current system cannot adequately address.
“If nothing changes, we will see more children and young people harmed, and dying, as a result.”
q Homelessness Australia CEO Kate Colvin.
Paterson Golf Club
By Ramsey VANE-WOOD
PATERSON GOLF CLUB
INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD
& BOB MURPHY CUP (2BBB CHAMPIONSHIPS - 1st ROUND)
FIELD | 34 members DIVISION 1 (<15) | Winner Michael Shanley (15) 39 Points, Runner Up Stephen Watson (13) 39 Points, 3rd Place Greg Scott (6)
35 Points DIVISION 2 (16-36) | Winner Phillip Watson (29)
38 Points, Runner Up Denis Crossman (22) 33 Points, 3rd Place Edwin Orchard (18)
33 Points BALL COMP | Allan Mckinnon (13) 34 Points, Robert Richardson (15) 34 Points, Glenn Davies (6) 33 Points, Greg Kellner (19) 33 Points, John Walker (10) 33 Points, Paul Geddes (11) 33 Points & Michael Croucher (21)
33 Points. NEAREST THE PIN | 5th/14th - John Walker (10), 8th/17th - David Bambach (10), 9th/18th - Peter Nicholson (14) MEMBERS DRAW | No.55,
Jackpot, $282 MEMBERS EAGLES NEST | Michael Shanley (15) - 2nd - 4 Balls UPCOMING EVENTS| 27-Sep Individual Stableford & Bob Murphy Cup (2BBB Championships) Final Round, 4-Oct 2-Person Ambrose (7:30am shotgun start), 11-Oct Individual Stroke, Medal & Male Club Championships 1st Round, 18-Oct Individual Stroke & Male Club Championships 2nd Round, 25-Oct Individual Stroke, Tom Goodman Trophy & Male Club Championships Final Round. Schedule subject to change.
SUNDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER
2025 PATERSON OPEN (INDIVIDUAL STROKE) FIELD | 21 members & 36 visitors. DIVISION 1 (<12) SCRATCH | Winner Max Wallington (+3)
[Cypress Lakes] 64 Gross, Runner Up Mac Dawson (+1) [Cypress Lakes] 66 Gross, 3rd Place Lachlan Charnock (0) [Kurri] 67 Gross DIVISION 1 (<12) NETT | Winner Garry
Reid (12) [Wingham] 63 Nett, Runner Up Chris Bryant (9) 63 Nett, 3rd Place
Leigh English (7) [Wingham] 63 Nett DIVISION 2 (13-36)
SCRATCH | Winner Edward Russell (19) [Dungog] 86 Gross, Runner Up Mick Mirisch (13) 87 Gross, 3rd Place Stephen Watson (13) 87 Gross DIVISION 2 (13-
Divas in the big dance
THE under 13s Dungog Divas netball side contested a grand final in the Port Stephens netball competition on Saturday, 20 September.
“They were the only team to represent Dungog at this level,” said Natalie Spedding from the Dungog District Netball Association.
“There was support in numbers to cheer the girls on; the atmosphere was electric.
“It was a beautiful sunny day although the wind made it very difficult.
“Unfortunately, they didn't come away with the win, going down 26-18.”
36) NETT | Winner Paul Bennetts (24) 65 Nett, Runner Up Greg Kellner (19) 69 Nett, 3rd Place Mitchell Russell (28) [Singleton] 69 Nett PATERSON CUP (BEST STABLEFORD) | Winner Garry Reid (12) [Wingham] 37 Points, Runner Up Chris Bryant (9) 37 Points DIVISION 1 (<12) NEAREST
THE PIN | 1st/10th Zach Thackeray (12) [Kurri], 5th/14th Lachlan Charnock (0) [Kurri], 7th/16th
Gary Ritchie (9) [Scone], 9th/18th Allan Eather (10) [Maitland] DIVISION 1 (<12) LONGEST DRIVE | 3rd/12th Justin Robards (4) [Cypress Lakes] DIVISION 2 (13-36) NEAREST THE PIN
| 1st/10th Denis Crossman (21), 5th/14th Tyler Dorn (20) [Singleton], 7th/16th Michael Wilkins (24) [Karuah], 9th/18th Jarrod Thomson (14) [Belmont] DIVISION 2 (13-36) LONGEST DRIVE | 3rd/12th Michael Shanley (15) 2026 PATERSON OPEN
Pedalfest rolls on
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
More competitive riders will then line up for the Penny Farthing, Dandy Horse and Footbike Long Distance Championship, held alongside the scenic Fosterton Loop Ride, with morning tea to keep energy levels high.
The afternoon brings thrills with the Pedalfest Criterium and the State
and National one-mile championships, while leisure riders can savour the everpopular Scones, Jam and Cream Ride to Thalaba Church.
As the sun sets, the James Theatre will screen Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.
On Sunday, the streets of Dungog will ring with cheers at the Hooke Street Races, featuring short-distance penny farthing, footbike and dandy horse championships,
alongside kids’ races.
Meanwhile, the Ride Dungog Flow Track Mountain Bike Race will challenge riders on the Common’s fastpaced trails.
Event organisers say Pedalfest is more than just about bikes.
“Pedalfest is about celebrating our town, our trails, and the joy of riding together,” said the committee.
“Whether you’re racing, riding for fun, or cheering from the sidelines, there’s something for everyone this weekend.”
q The Dungog Divas
Pedalfest rolls on
By
Authorised by Alison Penfold MP, National Party of Australia, 144 Victoria St, Taree NSW 2430.
q Pedalfest-ers take to the streets of Dungog.