Dungog caravan park plans in motion
By Lisa WISEMAN
QUARRY FIGHT
By Joseph RICHARDS
More rental properties are needed for qualified tenants!
Do you or someone you know have a
q Cr Liam Ley at Abbott’s Flat, a potential site for the new caravan park.
Clarence Town Flood Study
Dungog Shire Council is undertaking a Flood Study for Clarence Town and the surrounding environs to improve the understanding of flood behaviour and impacts, and better inform the management of flood risk. The study will also support the concurrent development of the Clarence Town Structure Plan.
Whilst previous studies have been undertaken in the area, there is no comprehensive investigation covering all flood mechanisms throughout the area. Also, these studies are now relatively old and significant changes have subsequently occurred in both the methodologies and policies in floodplain risk management.
Your local knowledge of the catchment and personal experiences of flooding will help us to undertake this flood study.
Survey closes 31 March, 2025
Please tell us your experiences with flooding by:
Visit us in person at our information session: Tuesday, 4 March: · 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Clarence Town School of Arts Hall
Help us understand flood behaviours around your home and/or land dungog.nsw.gov.au
Completing our online survey: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/floodstudy or scan the QR code
Clarence Town Structure Plan
now seeking community feedback
Dungog Shire Council has placed the draft Clarence Town Structure Plan and Streetscape Master Plan on public exhibition for the community’s review.
The draft Plans outline a strategic vision for sustainable growth, improved livability, and enhanced public spaces in Clarence Town, and guide development, infrastructure upgrades, and environmental preservation over the next 30 years.
We are seeking community feedback before the finalisation of the Plans and subsequent adoption by Council.
The draft Clarence Town Structure Plan and Streetscape Master Plan will be available for your review and feedback from Wednesda y, Fe ruar y to Wednesda y, March Please head to our we s te to f nd out more .
Like to know more or provide feedback in person? Come to our information session
Visit us in person at our information session:
Tuesday, 4 March:
· 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Clarence Town School of Arts Hall
dungog.nsw.gov.au
Completing our online survey: www.dungog.nsw.gov.au/ctstructure plan or scan the QR code
QUARRY FIGHT
FROM Page 1
approved for the expansion of the site.
It has been rejected by the Dungog Shire Council and the Independent Planning Committee (IPC) and has been a controversial topic in the community.
In March, an appeal against the IPC’s rejection will be heard.
Under the current conditions, the quarry is allowed to extract up to 400,000 tonnes of hard rock a year, operate between 7am to 5pm and transport 70 percent of materials by rail and the rest by road.
Under Daracon’s proposal, this will increase to 1.1 million tonnes extracted, with operation hours of 7am
to 6pm and an extra 450,000 tonnes transported by road.
“Daracon are more concerned with money than empathy for the village,” local Stephen Callum said.
“Fewer people object to the trains yet they keep pushing the trucks.”
At the meeting, locals raised concerns over silica dust from the quarry contaminating the area’s water supply; the effect of the fallout on citizens' mental health; and the proposal’s 160 truck movements through Paterson (meaning one truck passing through town every two and a half minutes).
The action group’s slogan is: “We’re not just fighting a quarry expansion. We are fighting for our
Dungog caravan park plans in motion
FROM Page 1
Cr Ley’s considers more options and sites, while taking into account Council’s previous investigations.
It also proposes leasing or selling land, which may be a more attractive option for potential operators.
Any park would need to be in line with Council’s future vision.
health, our homes, and our way of life”.
The Vice President of the MCQAG, Julia Stokes said, “We’ve been successful in the past, I believe we will be again.
“The village is as committed as ever to fighting this.”
More than tourism would benefit, Cr Ley believes.
The motion also mentioned economic development and environmental sustainability.
“Hopefully someone reads this and says, ‘I want to do that’,” Cr Ley said.
At present the only caravan and camping accommodation provided
by Council is at Frank Robinson Park, and at the showground.
However, the showground is only available for use during events, not to tourists.
One site which Cr Ley suggested could be looked at is Abbott’s Flat, across the road from Frank Robinson Park.
While the park has
limited space, Abbott’s Flat is larger.
However, flooding is a potential concern for both sites.
Cr Ley stressed that safety and suitability would be thoroughly investigated.
The motion will give Council an updated list of available options to improve the Dungog experience for visitors and residents.
DA refused for outdoor recreation facility
A DEVELOPMENT application (DA) has been refused for an outdoor recreation facility involving the use of motocross tracks at 47 Horton Close, Glen Martin.
In accordance with Dungog Shire Council’s ‘Assessment of Development Applications Policy’, the application was reported to Council for determination due to 75 objections being registered during two separate notification periods.
The DA sought approval for the continued use of
93RD ANNUAL 93RD ANNUAL
earthworks which were carried out without consent, and for the use of those earthworks as private motocross tracks.
“As previously addressed within the report, the proposed development is considered to be inconsistent with the zone objectives, has failed to satisfy a number of clauses within the Dungog LEP 2014 and has failed to demonstrate that the impacts from the development will not have an unacceptable impact on the amenity of adjoining
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land and the locality,” Dungog Shire Council said in a statement.
“As such, approval is not in the public interest.
“Council determined the development is likely to adversely affect the amenity of the rural surroundings as a result of noise and visual impacts.
“Significant public objection has been received to the proposed development, and as such, approval of the application is not considered to be in the public interest.”
q President of the MCQAG Luke Barker, speaking at last week’s meeting.
FLIPBOOK
CLASSIFIEDS
Clarence Town flood study
q While previous studies have been conducted, there is currently no comprehensive investigation covering all flood causes and processes in the area.
DUNGOG Shire Council is calling on all residents in Clarence Town and the surrounding area to provide their input into a flood study.
The study will improve Council’s understanding of flood behaviour and impacts and help better manage flood risks and planning in the future.
While previous studies have been conducted, there is currently no comprehensive investigation covering all flood causes and processes in the area.
Additionally, past studies are now outdated, and significant
advancements have been made in floodplain risk management methodologies and policies. Furthermore, the Flood Study will:
• Define the nature of overland flooding using the latest technologies and data.
• Improve understanding of flood behaviour and associated risks in the study area.
• Build community resilience through better planning, emergency management, and awareness.
• Provide information to
assist in future floodplain management activities to reduce flood impacts and risks to life.
A key component of the study is flood mapping and the identification of properties at risk through a process known as “flood tagging”.
This ensures that new developments adhere to appropriate flood-related controls, protecting both new and existing properties.
These planning controls will only apply to new developments or modifications to existing structures.
Dungog Shire Council Mayor Digby Rayward said it is vital the community contribute to the survey.
“We’re at a pivotal point in planning for the Clarence Town community by developing a 30year Master Plan and Structure Plan, so this survey is essential in ensuring we’ve captured the correct data from the people who know and experience flooding the most.
"We need as many people as possible to share their
experiences with flooding, either at home and within their businesses, so we can handle future issues the best way possible,” Cr Rayward said.
The flood study will also support the ongoing development of the Clarence Town Structure Plan, which is currently on community exhibition.
Anyone wishing to contribute a few minutes of their time to complete the survey are encouraged to:
• Pick up a paper copy of the survey at the Clarence Town Post Office or Dungog Shire Council Administration building.
• Complete the survey online by visiting the Dungog Shire Council website: dungog.nsw. gov.au/floodstudy
Residents are asked to complete the survey by 31 March 2025.
Anyone seeking further information is encouraged to contact Dungog Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre via (02) 4995 7777 or email shirecouncil@dungog.nsw.gov.au
drivers of violence, and learn practical tools and strategies to manage themselves and deescalate potentially aggressive situations.
OUTLETS
Dungog
Dungog
MEN’S Behaviour Change Programs (MBCPs) are set to be rolled out across an additional seven locations across NSW, including Gloucester and Maitland, following a $10 million investment from the NSW Government.
MBCPs are evidence-based group programs and services that focus on working with perpetrators of domestic and family violence to reduce or prevent the recurrence of abusive behaviour.
Between 2022 and 2024, 1,800 men participated in MBCPs in NSW.
Following this expansion, the programs will be available across 35 locations through 15 providers.
The new locations are:
• Nowra, Shoalhaven LGA -
Anglicare
• Ulladulla, Shoalhaven LGAAnglicare
• Forster, MidCoast LGA –Manning Support Services
• Gloucester, MidCoast LGA –Manning Support Services
• Lithgow, Lithgow LGA – Plus Community
• Blacktown, Blacktown LGA –Relationships Australia
• Maitland, Maitland LGA –Relationships Australia.
NSW Women’s Safety
Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said the program’s expansion will promote the safety of women and children by “holding men accountable for their violent and abusive behaviour and supporting them to change”.
“Programs like this can encourage participants to take responsibility for their behaviour
and provide them with the skills and tools necessary to stop using violence and maintain respectful relationships.”
Relationships Australia
NSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said, “Promoting the safety of women and children is essential to preventing domestic and family violence in our communities.
“Our Men’s Behaviour Change Program works with men who use violence to take responsibility, guiding them to be accountable for their actions and stop abusive behaviours in their family relationships.
“These men have recognised the need to change and have sought support to become safer partners and fathers.
“Through the program, they reflect on their behaviour, understand the underlying
“We also work with the men’s current or former partners and their children to ensure their safety and support recovery.
“Many have shared with us that they are now living in safe and respectful homes, free from violence."
For information on Men’s Behaviour Change Programs operating in your local area, contact the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.
AGL slams nuclear option, doubles down on big batteries
By Marion RAE, AAP
ELECTRICITY giant AGL
Energy is standing firm on replacing ageing coalfired power stations with renewable energy, as it rejects a federal opposition plan to add nuclear energy to the nation's network.
"Both time and cost won't allow nuclear to be done on time... the question right now is about getting on and getting this done as soon as we can," AGL chief executive Damien Nicks told AAP.
"Our strategy is about building a whole range of assets, not one or the other. It's going to be renewables, batteries, pumped hydro, gas peakers to support what this market needs," he said.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton plans to build seven nuclear reactors on former coal sites across the nation, including sites owned by AGL in NSW and Victoria, if the coalition is elected.
"We're making 20-year decisions that will outlive
changes in politics every three or four years," Mr Nicks said.
On the Liddell site in the NSW Upper Hunter region, AGL was one-third of the way through construction of a major battery - a $750 million, 500-megawatt project that was on track for commencing operations in 2026, he said.
AGL was also seeing demand growth for the first time in six years as underlying demand from electrification starts to kick in, Mr Nicks said.
"We're flexing our assets a lot more in the marketplace as the market transitions but also we expect to take FID (final investment decision) on 1.4 gigawatts of new batteries over the next 12 to 18 months," he said.
Big batteries allow energy companies to store excess solar energy generated in the middle of the day and shift it to other times to meet peak demand.
More broadly, the development pipeline has grown to 7GW after recent
acquisitions.
The home will also play a huge role in shifting the load to different times of the day - whether it's home batteries added to rooftop solar, electric vehicles or hot water systems - so customers can share the benefit, Mr Nicks said.
The generator and energy retailer, or gentailer, this month reported a halfyear statutory net profit of $97 million, down $479 million.
Underlying profit was $373 million, down 6.5 percent on a year earlier, on higher operating costs to maintain generation and as consumers swapped products to try to reduce sky-high power bills.
Moody's Ratings said the upcoming closure of AGL's large coal-fired generators by 2035, which contributed to its "solid" half-year result, underscored the need for continued large investment programs to maintain longterm earnings momentum.
Coal fuel costs rose 7.4 percent driven by an
increase in generation at Bayswater Power Station in NSW, and gas costs for electricity generation rose 42.6 percent as the market operator directed the Torrens Island plant to support South Australia.
Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) eased one percent to $1.068 billion in the half.
The range for underlying full-year EBITDA narrowed to $1.935 billion to $2.35 billion, while underlying net profit was expected to be $580 million to $710 million.
But UBS energy analyst Tom Allen said AGL's indication of a significant earnings contribution from new batteries at Torrens in South Australia and Liddell added upside to expectations for the 202627 financial year.
AGL declared a lower interim dividend of 23 cents per share, down from 26 cents per share a year earlier.
q AGL boss Damien Nicks believes nuclear power isn't the right option for Australia's energy needs. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/ AAP PHOTOS.
Domestic violence crackdown
POLICE have charged more than 550 people with more than 1160 offences during a four-day state-wide operation targeting domestic and family violence.
Operation Amarok IX ran from Wednesday 19 to Saturday 22 February 2025, and involved officers from all police area commands and police districts across NSW.
The Domestic and Family Violence Registryled 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, Police Airwing, Traffic & Highway Patrol Command, and the Police Transport Command.
Across the four days, 569 people were arrested and charged, with 295 arrest warrants executed.
Police laid 1,162 charges and conducted 1,151 bail compliance checks and 12,382 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks.
There were 424 breaches identified.
Officers conducted 127 firearms prohibition order (FPO) searches, with 57 firearms and 25 weapons seized.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley says Operation Amarok was a clear example of the NSW Police Force’s commitment to addressing domestic and family violence, especially in regional areas.
“Operation Amarok demonstrates the dedication of police in tackling domestic
and family violence and sends a strong message that this sickening behaviour will never be tolerated,” Minister Catley said.
“Those who choose to commit these violent acts should be prepared for a knock on their door and to face the consequencesbecause the police will stop at nothing to hold perpetrators to account.
“Last year alone, police received almost 150,000 calls for help for domestic and family violence related matters, this shows the gravity
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Coaches replace XPT
DUNGOG and Gloucester rail passengers will have two of their six daily XPT services replaced by road coaches from next month.
The 12-month temporary change to services will allow essential upgrades to the NSW TrainLink XPT fleet including extensive mechanical work, new carpeting and refurbished seats as well as maintenance to improve operation of the air-conditioning and toilets.
of the situation and the extensive police resources required to combat it.”
Domestic and Family Violence Corporate Sponsor, Assistant Commissioner Peter Mckenna, said the strategy behind Operation Amarok was working.
Coaches will replace the XPT on the 5.15am Grafton-Sydney service and the 11.44am SydneyGrafton service, with the timetable still to be confirmed.
The remaining four daily rail services will continue to operate with XPT trains.
Ticket prices will remain the same and bookings will continue as usual by calling 13 22 32 or by using the NSW TrainLink booking website.
“Amarok elevates our focus on those highrisk offenders who pose a significant threat to victims, family members, and other members of the community,” Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“NSW Police remains committed to tackling domestic and family violence offenders across the state and the operation results speak for themselves.
“While police will continue the tactics employed by our high-risk offender teams to target these people and support victims, we all have a part to play in stopping this senseless crime.”
Authorised by David Gillespie, Cnr Cameron St and Oxley Hwy, Wauchope NSW 2446
q Across the four days, 569 people were arrested and charged, with 295 arrest warrants executed.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
UNDER THE VINES
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Set in idyllic New Zealand in the Peak View wine district, this third season of the sunny dramedy sees newcomer William (Mark Mitchinson) ruffling feathers. Charles Edwards and Rebecca Gibney (pictured) are ripe with feel-good warmth as step-cousins Louis and Daisy, now running their inherited Oakley Wines vineyard together. However, as Daisy readies to marry again, the duo must focus on ousting self-declared heir William to save the winery. While former lawyer Louis believes his legal nous will come in handy, Daisy has some “creative” ideas for getting rid of their co-owner.
FRIDAY, February 28
(Return, PG) Daisy plans her wedding.
9.15 Optics. (Ml, R) Greta and Nicole get a board meeting date.
9.45 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
10.20 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
(MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 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. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
SUNDAY
THE NEWSREADER
ABC TV, 8.30pm
There’s lights, cameras and plenty of action as Australia’s favourite fictional newsreaders leave it all on the table before we bid farewell to the stellar, cinematic drama next week. Three seasons’ worth of secrets and personal struggles explode tonight after threatened News at Six boss Lindsay (William McInnes) takes to destroying the careers he built in a bid to save his own. Dale (Sam Reid) spirals under the pressure of blackmail about his sexuality, while Helen (Anna Torv, pictured) – riding high after Public Eye won the ratings war – is blindsided by a front-page article revealing her history of mental health issues. No one is safe from Lindsay’s vitriol as The Newsreader sets the scene for an unforgettable finale.
MONDAY
DAN SNOW’S GREATEST DISCOVERIES
7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (M) 8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (R)
9.20 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead. (PG)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Bonn. (Msv)
11.45 Sisi. (MA15+s, R) 2.40 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (Final, PG, R)
3.45 Employable Me (UK) (Mal, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (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. Johanna Griggs meets up with Nicole Maguire. 8.30 MOVIE: Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody. (2022, Mdl) An exploration of the life and music of singer Whitney Houston, chronicling her journey from obscurity to superstardom. Naomi Ackie, Stanley Tucci, Ashton Sanders. 11.30 GetOn Extra.
12.00 Australian Idol. (PGl, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
SBS, 8.25pm
History buffs are in safe hands tonight with experienced archaeologist Dan Snow (pictured). True to his profession, Snow is passionate about unearthing mysteries and hidden histories. The return of this docuseries follows the intrepid explorer on a journey to China, where he yearns to learn more about an amazing discovery made just a few years before he was born: the Terracotta Army. Made up of thousands of life-size warriors armed with bronze weapons, the collection of sculptures that guards the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang dates back to 210 BCE. Later episodes take Snow in search of the secrets of Stonehenge, Machu Picchu and even Atlantis. If anyone can track down the fictional island, it’s Snow.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals: Water. (PG)
8.40 MOVIE: Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard. (2021, MA15+lv, R) A bodyguard and a hitman work together. Ryan Reynolds, Salma Hayek.
11.00 MOVIE: Lions For Lambs. (2007, Mlv, R)
12.45 Pointless. (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) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Wheel Of Fortune UK. Contestants compete to solve word puzzles in order to win cash and prizes determined by The Wheel. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Malv, R) Guests include Kevin Hart, Jodie Comer, Sofia Vergara and Alan Cumming. 10.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.15 The Project. (R) 12.10
6.00
SATURDAY, March 1
6.00 Australian Story: Second Innings – Bharat Sundaresan. (R) Leigh Sales chats to Bharat Sundaresan.
6.30 Back Roads: Great Keppel, Queensland. (R) Heather Ewart visits Great Keppel Island.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2025. Coverage of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. 10.30 The Newsreader. (Mal, R) Rob makes a controversial comment on air.
11.25 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) Sunny and Jess struggle to focus on the case. 12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (Return)
8.35 Queen Camilla: The Wicked Stepmother.
9.30 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PGal, R)
10.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
11.25 Suspect. (MA15+av, R)
3.20 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R)
4.20 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
7.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Legacy. (2012, Mav, R) A secret agent is hunted by the government. Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz.
10.15 MOVIE: Green Zone. (2010, Malv, R) A rogue military officer uncovers a conspiracy. Matt Damon.
12.30 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001, PGls, R) A ditzy blonde enrols in law school. Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson.
10.30 MOVIE: Magic Mike’s Last Dance. (2023, Mls)
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 Let’s Eat With George. (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)
(32)
6am Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 7.40 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 10.00 One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, M) 12.25pm Silverado. (1985, M) 2.50 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.45 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 6.25 Charade. (1963, PG) 8.30 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) Midnight Secretary. (2002, MA15+) 2.00 Ferocious Wolf. (2023, MA15+, Spanish) 3.55 Falling. (2020, M)
SUNDAY, March 2
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG) The mentors evaluate the teams.
8.30 The Newsreader. (Madl) Helen is blindsided by a front-page story revealing her history of mental health struggles.
9.25 Love Me. (MA15+s) Glen and Peter rescue Aaron from a drunken night out.
10.20 MOVIE: Cosi. (1996, Ml, R)
11.55 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Tiddler. 3.55 Children’s Programs. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.15 Speechless. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 11.05 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Ancient Greece By Train.
8.25 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (Mav) Looks at Livia, who starts having regrets.
9.20 Legends Of The Pharaohs. (Ma, R)
10.20 Great British Landmark Fixers. (R)
11.15 Elvis’ Women. (Mas, R)
2.40 Love Your Garden. (R)
3.30 Employable Me (UK) (MA15+l, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
10.10 WWE Legends. 11.45 Hoarders. 12.30am The X-Files. 4.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Charade. (1963, PG) 8.05 Mr Holland’s Opus. (1995, PG) 10.40 All The President’s Men. (1976) 1.10pm Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 3.15 Sissi. (1955, German) 5.15 Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 6.55 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG) 8.30 Fame. (1980, M) 11.00 Sira. (2023, French) 1.15am Shiva Baby. (2020, M) 2.40 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG)
8.40 The Hunters: The Car Bomb And The Underworld War. (Madv) Takes a look at the murder of John Furlan in 1998 by a car bomb, a crime which has never been solved.
10.15 Murder In The Outback: The Falconio And Lees Mystery. (Mdlv, R)
12.15 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (R) 2.00 To Be Advised. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGals) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
See No Evil. (Mav)
The First 48. (Malv)
World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. (PGa, R)
Destination WA. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Customs. (PG, R)
Today Early News.
6am MOVIE: L.O.L. Surprise! The Movie. (2021) 7.00 Children’s Programs. 1.10pm Inside The Superbrands. 3.10 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 4.10 Young Sheldon. 5.10 MOVIE: Space Jam: A New Legacy. (2021, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Turner & Hooch. (1989, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Gettin’ Square. (2003, M) 11.40 Young Sheldon. 12.40am The Originals. 2.30 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 3.30 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 1.15pm MOVIE: In The Heights. (2021, PG) 4.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: The Lego Movie. (2014, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Black Adam. (2022, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Sons Of Summer. (2023, MA15+) 11.45 Gotham. 12.40am Arrow. 2.30 Surfing Australia. 3.00 Beyblade X. 4.00 Bakugan. 4.30 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 4.50 LEGO City Adventures. 5.10 Children’s Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (s, R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Matlock. (PGals, R) Matty and Sarah pose as family to gather information at a senior living facility facing a wrongful death suit. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 Australian Survivor. (PGl)
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9GO! (83)
MONDAY, March 3
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Sicily With Michael Portillo. (PGaw) 8.25 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (Return)
Inside Sydney Airport. (PGal, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Wisting. (Malsv)
12.25 A French Case. (Mav, R)
2.20 Her Majesty’s Cavalry. (Ml, R)
2.50 Employable Me (UK) (Mal, R)
3.55 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Seven News.
6.00
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie, with judges Amy Shark, Kyle Sandilands and Marcia Hines.
9.10 Suits L.A. (Mav) Ted needs Amanda’s help with a new prosecutor in Lester’s murder trial.
10.10 The Oscars. (PGalv, R) From the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. The latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 Rise Of The Dolphins. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 The Life And Murder Of Nicole Brown Simpson. (Mav) 12.00 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00
6am Bran Nue
Dae. (2009, PG) 7.35 Sissi. (1955, German) 9.35
Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 11.15 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 2.40pm Charade. (1963, PG) 4.40 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 6.40 Sirocco. (1951, PG) 8.30 Raging Bull. (1980, MA15+) 10.55 Iron Sky. (2012, M) 12.35am Falling. (2020, M) 2.40 Black Box. (2021, M, French) 5.00 Sirocco. (1951, PG)
TUESDAY, March 4
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
8.30 Insight. (Return)
9.30 Dateline. (Return)
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)
11.30 Prisoner. (MA15+av)
12.40 Fargo. (Malv, R)
2.25 Her Majesty’s Cavalry. (R)
3.20 Employable Me (UK) (PGal, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Sirocco. Continued. (1951, PG) 6.50 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 8.55 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 10.55 Shiva Baby. (2020, M) 12.20pm Fame. (1980, M) 2.45 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG)
4.20 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 6.20 From Here To Eternity. (1953, PG) 8.30 Amadeus. (1984, M) 11.30 Iron Sky 2. (2019, M) 1.10am Clean. (2021, MA15+) 2.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 The Hunting Party. (M) The team races to stop Roy Barber, also known as the Couples Killer, before he strikes again.
10.10 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec and Marisa investigate a museum heist.
12.10 Sun, Sea And Surgery. (MA15+a, R) A look at Turkey’s Comfort Zone clinic.
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
WEDNESDAY,
March 5
THURSDAY, March 6 6.00
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Legacy List. (PG) 9.40 Britain’s Biggest Dig. (PGal, R) 10.50 Revolution: Ideas That Changed The World. (PGav, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Beautiful Rivers. (PGaw, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Australia: An Unofficial History. (l)
8.35 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Mal)
9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Blackwater. (Premiere, MA15+alv)
12.15 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlv, R)
3.20 Her Majesty’s Cavalry. (PGal, R)
3.50 Employable Me (UK) (PGal, R)
4.55 China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Return, Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Full Sweat. (Premiere, M) Behindthe-scenes at the Hawthorn Football Club.
11.00 Autopsy USA: John Wayne. (Return, Ma)
12.00 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 Big Miracles. (Mam)
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mm)
11.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+av, R)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Your Next Cruise. (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 Deal Or No Deal.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 The Dog House Australia. Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 8.30 Elsbeth. (Ma) Elsbeth suspects foul play after a posh country club wedding ends in the golf cart death of the hapless groom. 9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mav) The NCIS discovers a disturbing secret when a marine is murdered during training on the island. 10.25 10’s Late News. 10.50 The Project. (R) 11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6am From Here
To Eternity. Continued. (1953, PG) 7.10 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 9.10 The Man
Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 11.10 Iron Sky. (2012, M) 12.50pm Iron Sky 2. (2019, M) 2.30 Sirocco. (1951, PG) 4.20 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 6.30 Breaker Morant. (1980, PG) 8.30 Platoon. (1986, MA15+) 10.45 Arkansas. (2020, MA15+) 12.40am Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.10
Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (PGn)
Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 10.05 The Role Of A Lifetime. (PG, R)
News. 11.10 The Business. (R) 11.30 Miriam Margolyes Impossibly Australian. (Mdl, R) 12.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 1.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia Christmas Special. (R)
5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG)
8.30 Hidden Volcano Abyss. (Mal, R)
A look at the eruption of Hunga Tonga.
9.30 Boiling Point.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Golden Boy. (MA15+s)
12.05 Blackport. (MA15+s, R)
2.35 Her Majesty’s Cavalry. (MA15+l, R)
3.30 Employable Me (UK) (PGa, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 11.45 Cook Up Bitesize. 11.50 WorldWatch. 12.20pm Patriot Brains. 2.10 Cowboy Kings Of Crypto. 2.40 Insight. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.40 The Fast History Of. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James Brown: Say It Loud. (Premiere) 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.
6am Breaker
Morant. Continued. (1980, PG) 7.05 After Yang. (2021, PG) 8.50 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 11.00 Amadeus. (1984, M) 1.50pm From Here To Eternity. (1953, PG) 4.00 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 6.00 The Age Of Innocence. (1993, PG) 8.30 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 10.45 Nowhere Boy. (2009, M) 12.35am Rush. (2013, MA15+) 2.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R)
A speeder will not stop.
8.30 MOVIE: The Butler. (2013, Malv, R)
A White House butler serves seven American presidents across three decades. Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey.
11.10 Autopsy USA: Anthony Bourdain. (Madl, R)
12.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
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. NRL. Round 1. Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos. 9.55 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.40 9News
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. (s) Opinionated
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9GO! (83)
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
EVERY time I go to the beach there is a sea of bums.
Everyone under the age of about 20 (and some well over) are jiggling around in g-strings. Is this acceptable?
Francis P.
Dear Francis,
Acceptable is a strange word in these times.
It also depends on who you are talking to.
There are many who would gleefully flock to the beach to get a glimpse of the bums you refer to, and others who would be sweating
bucketloads of moral panic over it.
Swimwear has been through many phases and it always comes with negative comments from the modesty brigade.
In the early 1900s, women had to wear loose-fitting frocks and later they were swaddled in conservative woollen swimsuits (can you imagine how uncomfortable that would be?).
In the 1930s, costumes hugged the figure and the material changed, with nylon making it more comfortable to swim and sunbake, but they were still quite puritanical by today's standards.
Tummies were exposed by the 1950s and by the 60s, tops and bottoms were shrinking with a lot of skin on show. In the 80s it was all about fluoro and it wasn't just the bums that were out.
Topless bathing was as prolific as the smell of coconut oil and hairspray.
It's surprising we didn't selfcombust with all the additives and chemicals in the air.
I wonder, Francis, if it will come full circle again. Perhaps, with cabanas offering more sun protection, and a greater awareness of the dangers of sunbaking, more people will embrace the cover-up culture and protect themselves from the harsh effects of the Australian sun and the sanctimonious sermonising of those in sensible swimwear.
Let me tell you, though, Francis, if I still had my 19-year-old bum, it would be out there frolicking amongst that sea of bums (between the flags of course) and enjoying every moment.
Why not?
And why not embrace people wearing whatever they feel comfortable in at whatever age while they still can?
In this era of body positivity, a bit of jiggling, if the jiggler feels good about it, is surely not for the rest of us to judge.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Please don't promote division
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE image of that bloke chainsawing the "Woke Agenda" (‘Libertarians to contest Lyne’, p1, 19 February) does promote division.
Your story ‘30 years of
caring and sharing’ (p13, 19 February) about Dungog and District Neighbourcare is the result of a caring and sharing "woke" attitude. The message of Jesus is woke.
Anyone who uses "woke"
negatively is trying to create hate in the community. We need to promote love and compassion for all. Take care,
Allen SHRIMPTON, Dungog.
Medicare the winner as parties match funding pledges
By Tess IKONOMOU and Adrian BLACK, AAP
BILLIONS of dollars will be poured into Medicare no matter who wins government, with the coalition promising to match Labor's landmark spending pledge on health care.
Peter Dutton and opposition health spokeswoman Anne Ruston say a coalition government will provide an "historic" $9 billion, including an already announced plan to boost mental health by $500 million.
"By absolutely every measure, the Albanese government has failed Australians on health," Senator Ruston said on Sunday.
"Every Australian knows that it's harder and more expensive to see a GP."
The opposition called on Labor to match its commitment to mental health support.
Senator Ruston said the coalition wouldn't stand in the way of Labor's $8.5 billion promise to boost health funding, which she described as a clean-up on a "mess" they created.
While the cost of living is the most pressing issue for voters, health care is also highly ranked as a priority.
In a speech in Launceston on Sunday, Anthony Albanese unveiled Labor's centrepiece election promise for the unprecedented expansion of Medicare.
The prime minister said his government wants nine out of 10 visits to the GP to be free by the
end of the decade.
"That's an ambitious goal but people deserve ambition from their government on Medicare," he said.
"Because just as every Australian wants the best possible health care for their family, our government wants the best possible health care for every Australian."
Mr Albanese said Labor wanted to deliver on the "true promise and purpose" of Medicare.
"If the Australian people entrust our Labor government with a second term, a single, straightforward objective will be the foundation of our health policy," he said.
A federal election is due by May 17.
Fewer GP clinics have been taking on bulk-billed patients as they struggle to keep up with rising operational costs and increasing service complexity.
Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen said in some parts of the nation there would be a shift in the rates of no out-of-pocket consultations, while other parts would see no difference.
"I do hope this will make a difference in rural and regional communities and in our areas of socio-economic disadvantage, where GP's have been really trying as hard as they can to keep those costs down," she said.
Mr Albanese said every GP practice would be offered a new incentive payment to bulk bill.
This would provide about 4800 practices across Australia with the security they needed to bulk-bill every visit, he said.
A GP training program, which would start next year, would be the biggest in Australian history and deliver another 2000 new GPs annually.
Under the health care commitment, 400 new scholarships for nurses and midwives would be created.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the modelling done on the policy showed there would be 20 million additional free visits to the doctor.
Australia's bulk-billing rate plummeted to 20.7 percent at the start of 2025, down from 35.7 percent two years earlier, according to data released by health care directory Cleanbill in January.
Royal Australian College of GPs president Michael Wright backed Labor's workforce commitment but warned not everyone would be bulk-billed as patient rebates were still too low to cover the cost of care.
The funding announcement from the coalition follows a prolonged attack by Labor on Mr Dutton's track record as a health minister, which Mr Butler described as "bloody terrifying".
Independent candidate for Paterson, Philip Penfold, described Labor’s Medicare announcement as a “desperate, eleventh-hour attempt to win votes”.
“Labor’s promises come too late for the people of Paterson, particularly in the Hunter region, where bulk-billing GPs are almost non-existent,” Penfold said.
“Communities like Maitland and Port Stephens are feeling the pressure, and this didn’t just start overnight, with long wait times and rising out-of-pocket costs.”
By Joshua GILBERT
OVER a hundred descendants of James and Charlotte Bugg are set to gather in the Upper Hunter to celebrate their connection to Country.
The Goori (Aboriginal) Bugg family gathering will be held at the Gloucester Showground between 28-30 March.
According to the event organisers, this year is the Bicentenary of the arrest in Greater Horkesley, Essex, UK, of 23 years old James Bugg for stealing, then his gaoling and transportation to the colony of New South Wales as an English convict.
“He arrived in Sydney in March 1826 and was assigned to the AACo which had just commenced its operations on Worimi Country at Tahlee, Port Stephens,” the event’s website states.
Uncle John Heath told News Of The Area, “The three-day gathering
will be a celebration of a remarkable dynasty that commenced amongst frontier hostilities on unceded Worimi and Birpai country and survived colonialism and the challenges of mixed race families in Australia, with many members making significant contributions in a number of fields, to help build a better Australia.
“It will provide an opportunity to share our stories and learn from the experiences of other family members that may be quite different from our own.”
Activities for gathering attendees will include basket and eel trap weaving, possum and kangaroo skin cloak making, men’s and women’s yarning circles, family tree mapping and tours of important local cultural and community sites.
More information can be found on the Goori Bugg Gathering website.
q Organising committee members Paula Mailing, Uncle John Heath, Tanya Morgan, Aunty Lynda Holden and Aunty Donna Kemp. Photo: supplied.
REMOTE, rural and regional communities are being encouraged to embrace new technologies and digital solutions, with grants of up to $10,000 available through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Telstra.
The Telstra’s Connected Communities Grant Program invites local not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) to apply for their share in $200,000 for projects that empower their community to improve digital literacy and enhance
digital capabilities.
The program aims to foster the liveability, sustainability and resilience of rural Australia by funding projects that enhance social connection, support equitable access to technology, increase cyber security, enable sustainable environmental practices or support disaster preparedness.
Loretta Willaton, Regional Australia Executive at Telstra, said that now in its third year, the program has supported almost 60 projects
aimed at building digital capability in remote, rural and regional communities across Australia.
“The program has supported a range of projects, from digital literacy workshops that help people to understand their device so that they can feel safe to use the technology, to improving not-for-profit operations and service delivery so that they can better support the most vulnerable.
“We have also been inspired by the innovations
in information sharing and the positive impact that these new systems have had on the environmental, social and economic outcomes of communities.
“In 2025, the program will continue to support projects that embrace new technology and build digital capability to support liveable, resilient and sustainable remote, rural, regional communities across Australia,” said Ms Willaton.
Natalie Egleton, CEO at FRRR, said the Foundation is dedicated to narrowing the
digital divide.
“Rural communities are great places to live.
"Unfortunately, the reality is that there is generally limited access to technology, education and job opportunities, meaning people find they have no choice but to move to the city, just to be able to work or go to school.
“That’s why equitable access to services, like technology and digital solutions, is so important.
“For older people it
supports connection and opportunities to keep learning and be confident with digital devices.
“For younger people it supports them to live, learn and work outside of the metro regions and make these vibrant smaller towns their home.”
Applications close at 5pm AEDT on Thursday, 20 March.
Successful grants will be announced in June 2025 and applicants will have 12 months to complete the funded projects.
Committee to spotlight harmful impacts of pornography
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
PORNOGRAPHY and its impacts on young people and adults will be the focus of a NSW parliamentary committee, with antiviolence advocates calling for regulations on deepfake and AI-generated porn.
The committee is looking into the impacts of early exposure to pornography on children, including body image impacts, the effectiveness of any current
education programs about use and misuse of pornography, as well as the support services available.
Online pornography is prevalent in the lives of young people, with 13 being the average age when they first encountered it, according to a 2022 study by the Australian eSafety Commissioner.
The study found first encounters with online pornography were most commonly unintentional and for around one in three (30 percent) this occurred before
the age of 13.
Anti-violence
organisation Our Watch said early exposure to pornography can have a significant negative impact on the development of young people's attitudes about gender roles, identities and relationships.
"Our Watch research showed that both young men and young women are accessing pornography years before their first sexual relationships, which means that pornography can be highly influential in shaping their perceptions of sex and sexual relationships,"
the organisation said in its submission to the committee.
Our Watch called on the NSW government to use the inquiry findings as an opportunity to develop a set of more comprehensive resources for parents to have critical and preventative discussions about pornography and its various depictions of consent, relationships and genderdynamics.
The organisation also
called for regulations on deepfake and AI-generated pornography to stop it from outpacing existing protections.
National peak sex worker organisation Scarlet Alliance said it was vital that consultations on pornography regulation engaged meaningfully with sex workers involved in porn production.
"(To) avoid perpetuating stigma and discrimination
towards marginalised communities," chief executive Mish Pony said.
"Family, sexual and other gender-based violence cannot be addressed by the implementation of anti-sex work or anti-pornography policies.
"We reject the assumption that pornography is inherently 'harmful'."
Lifeline 13 11 14
Fullstop Australia 1800
385 578
Colourful talent at Dungog Library
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG Library’s popular summer colouring competition has wrapped up, with this year’s event attracting a wide range of participants.
From budding young artists to seasoned colour enthusiasts, all were eager to draw on their imaginations.
After a spirited display of creativity, the winners were announced.
Albie, Vayda, and Josie were congratulated for their outstanding entries.
Their brilliant use of colour and attention captured the hearts of the judging panel.
Local artist Catherine Craig, who had the honour of judging the competition, expressed her admiration for the work exhibited.
“The quality of workmanship demonstrated in all age categories made the judging process very difficult once again," she said. The competition was more than just a contest; it was a celebration of artistic expression and community engagement.
With such impressive participation, Dungog Library is excited to see more creative initiatives in the future.
q Competition winner Josie Steer.
q Competition winner Albie Willoughby
Dungog cricket legend honoured in memorial tournament
Casey, and her husband, Sean Hynes.
Casey expressed her gratitude, saying, "I thank everyone for all their support.”
With invaluable assistance from Brooke Broadhead, the team orchestrated a day of festivities that included a bustling food stall and engaging raffles.
Generous support came from key sponsors, being Dowling Street Meats, Norco Dungog and Heatherbrae, The Tinshed Brewery, Hidden Valley Clothing, Stockers & Partridge, Barrington Bakehouse, and Vicki Rumbel, who all helped bring the day to fruition.
In a touching nod to Rumbel, players donned custom-designed shirts by Sarah E Crawford Creative Studio featuring his image.
Approximately $2000 was raised in his honour with all proceeds donated to Dungog Shire Palliative Care.
As the sun set on an emotional yet joyous day, it was clear that David “Tax” Rumbel’s passion for cricket and his community will continue to inspire generations to come.
DUNGOG
SHIRE COUNCIL
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 December 2024 - 31 January 2025
9/2024/13/1 Inground Fibreglass Pool and Associated Safety Barriers.
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
q The turnout on the day.
q Sean and Casey Hynes, Hammers captain Jimmy Kingston, and Vicki Rumbel.
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG’S cricketing community gathered in full force at Bennett Park on Saturday to celebrate the life and legacy of local cricket stalwart David “Tax” Rumbel, who passed away last June at the age of 69.
A passionate cricketer for over 55 years, Rumbel became a household name in the Hunter Valley Cricket Association.
He first stepped onto the Dungog A-grade field at just 13-years-old and went on to serve the association in many roles - as a coach, selector, umpire, curator, and administrator.
His tireless commitment to the game and his dedication to nurturing local talent earned him
q David Rumbel in his playing days.
the prestigious honour of life membership within the association.
In tribute to his enduring impact, more than 100 community members turned out for a thrilling tournament that showcased local teams including The Hammers, Wallarobba, Tillegra, The Bunnies, Gresford, and Vacy. Cricket enthusiasts were treated to an action-packed day filled with fours, sixes, and spirited competition.
In a particularly poignant moment, The Hammers - the team Rumbel himself fervently supported - captured the inaugural shield, thanks in large part to a scintillating performance from star batter Jordan Mitchell.
The event was meticulously organised by Andrew Linnertson alongside Rumbel’s daughter CONTINUED Page 15
Honouring ‘Tax’
