REGULARS at Pizza Night at Roadies have probably been entertained by “Rattlesnake Willie” (aka Ellis Girrard).
But how did someone born and raised in the small town of McCammon in the US state of Idaho, who has talent and a deep love of country music, end up in Barrington?
Ellis is the eldest of five children.
He loved life in his small town, where his father worked on the railroad.
“School was fun, but I didn’t go as much as I should
have - although I hung in there and I’m glad that I did,” he said.
After school, he worked in a variety of jobs, including as a local service station attendant, and on nearby farms, until becoming a semi-trailer driver.
He did this for the next 30 years, driving mostly through the cowboy state of Wyoming.
A brain tumour impacted his right eye and put an end to his truck driving, so he turned to delivery work.
Ellis had first picked up the guitar when he was just 14, and decided that he’d love to play on stage and entertain a crowd.
He and a couple of school mates started a Country Music band, unusually
Allan Waldon received top placings in Wingham Beef Week for four unled steers.
The week-long program focused on the beef cattle industry and was held at the Wingham Showgrounds between 12-16 May - before the town was flooded.
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“This year we had a record number of entries,” Vice President Mat Knox told News Of The Area.
“Over 150 head of cattle were entered in the unled competition, doubling the number of entries from last year.”
A former butcher turned beef farmer, Allan received top prizes for his steers in the unled lightweight carcase competitions.
His efforts were recognised at the awards dinner, which over 120 producers attended.
Across the four steers he entered, Allan won Champion unled lightweight carcase with a square meater steer
and a score of 91.05; Reserve Champion unled lightweight carcase, and an Angus cross steer in the next weight class, which had a marble score of 820 - the highest across the competition.
“My focus is producing top of the range for the local market while using regenerative farming practices, reduced use of chemical sprays and raising cattle on grass pastures,”
Allan told News Of The Area.
“Gloucester has always been recognised as a good beef production area, and Wingham Beef Week shows this.
“The scores for these steers put them, for meat quality, in the top one percent of quality beef in Australia.”
Gloucester
Gloucester Caravan
Hebbys
Barrington
Volunteers connecting communities
By Joshua GILBERT
THE Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group (BWNG) paused last week to thank its many volunteers.
This year’s National Volunteer Week, which ran from 19-25 May, provided BWNG with the chance to celebrate its network of helpers under the 2025 theme of “Connecting Communities”.
The campaign highlights the vital role volunteering plays in the nation’s wellbeing. Australia’s communities and lifestyle are underpinned by the contributions of others.
Locally, BWNG CEO Anna Burley said that the organisation is, “inspired every day by our volunteers’ generosity and spirit”.
“Their service embodies the very best of community connection and care.”
The BWNG volunteers work hard to ensure the Gloucester community feels connected.
Last financial year, they made over 350 health transport trips covering almost 71,000 kilometres.
In addition, over 6100 meals were provided through the group’s Meals on Wheels program and over 2000 volunteer hours were contributed.
“If you’ve ever considered volunteering - even just a little - we’d love to hear from you,” Ms Burley said.
“We're currently seeking a volunteer to support our Safety Net team by collecting donated food for BWNG’s Community Pantry.
“Just one hour a day, Monday to Friday, can make a real difference in helping local families access food support."
q Allan Waldon (centre) with Joshua Gilbert (President, Wingham Beef Week) and Chris Black (General Manager, Wingham Beef Exports). Picture: supplied.
q Allan’s steers. Picture: supplied.
q Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group volunteers and staff. Picture: supplied.
SNAP A WINNER
FROM Page 1
Culture.
To ensure the competition has local content, there is a “Lie of the Land” category, which challenges entrants to capture the essence of the Barrington Coast’s distinctive landscape features.
Young photographers aged 17 and under are encouraged to participate in the Junior section, which is not bound by specific categories.
This gives budding artists the freedom to explore different styles, forms, and
subject matter.
“We had a great response to the Junior section in 2024, and I hope to see even more entries this year,” said Charlie Lethbridge, GACCI Arts Administrator and competition coordinator.
This year’s entries will be judged by professional photographer and educator Peter Sedgwick, who brings years of experience behind the lens and in the classroom.
“Great photography comes from finding excellent subjects and capturing them in beautiful light,” he said.
“I look forward to seeing
that come through in this year’s submissions.”
Charlie also highlighted the vital support of local sponsors in keeping the competition running strong
for a quarter of a century.
“The longevity of this competition is due not only to the talent of our photographers but also to the ongoing support of our local
business community.”
Detailed entry guidelines can be found on the GACCI website.
Selected photographs will be exhibited at the Gloucester
Gallery from 13 August to 7 September, with the winners announced during a special event at the gallery on Saturday 16 August at 2pm.
Council working to dispose of dead livestock
MIDCOAST Council is asking for patience and understanding from the community as authorities work to dispose of the vast
numbers of dead livestock left behind by recent floods.
Mayor Claire Pontin said while the flood had been devastating for so many in
the community, the impact on primary producers had been nothing short of catastrophic.
“A lot of people have lost their homes, others have lost
their businesses, and many of our farmers have lost everything,” Mayor Pontin said.
“Not only have these farmers lost their primary source of income through loss of livestock, many have lost hectares of riverfront grazing land as well and the oyster farmers have lost everything.”
Given the widespread nature of the flooding, the number of livestock that have been killed is estimated to be in the thousands and these animals have been dispersed across a huge geographical area, with dead cows washing up as far south as Seal Rocks.
Council is responsible for removing dead livestock from public spaces and reserves, including local beaches.
The Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area assists with the removal of dead livestock from private properties.
All livestock killed in
From Idaho to Barrington for love
FROM Page 1
consisting of a guitar, drums and a saxophone.
He went on to form or play in 15 different bands.
After 14 years of marriage, Ellis found himself single again.
“I met my current wife Jacqui
online, when I was an internet cowboy,” he explains.
Jacqui was living in Newcastle and Ellis flew into Sydney to physically meet her on 9/11 in 2001.
It was love at first sight, leaving Ellis with no choice but to up stakes and move the 13,000 kilometres
from Idaho to Australia.
“After meeting Jacqui, coming back to Australia was an easy choice.”
The couple married in 2003 and lived in various places including Australia’s Country Music Capital, Tamworth.
It was when he was gigging
the flooding event are being disposed of at the Gloucester Landfill.
But given the extent of the issue, Mayor Pontin said getting to all the animals in a timely fashion was proving a challenge.
Many have washed up on local beaches and will continue to do so with each tide.
Machinery can be used on the beaches, but carcasses on rock shelves are more difficult to remove.
“Staff are working hard to get to the dead livestock, but the reality is there are so many out there that we can’t get to them all at once,” she said.
“Obviously this is going to have impacts as they start to decompose.
“Flies and smell are going to become an issue, but unfortunately that is something we’re going to have to get through as we recover from this flood.”
in Tamworth, that he decided he needed a catchier name than Ellis, so he picked Rattlesnake Willie because Idaho is known for its rattlesnakes and he often covers Willie Nelson songs.
He discovered the Gloucester area when he came to play at an event at Poley’s Place.
He and Jacqui were blown away by its beauty and decided to move
Safety Net Program
Have you been impacted by flooding? If you’re experiencing hardship due to loss, damage or decreased wages we can help.
Mayor Pontin asked people to remain sensitive to the loss and devastation that has occurred and to continue to band together as a community.
She also encouraged anyone who comes across a dead animal in a public area to report it to Council immediately by lodging a report and request at www. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/report or calling Customer Service on 7955 7777.
For anyone who requires assistance disposing of a dead animal on a private property, please contact the Animal and Agricultural Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.
If you would like to support people affected by the floods, including local primary producers, consider making a donation through Givit at https://www.givit. org.au/take-action/waysto-give/give-against-anappeal/new-south-walesflooding
here six years ago.
Ellis says that Gloucester’s rugged countryside reminds him of his childhood town, but with much less snow.
“In some places you can still feel like an outsider, even after 20 years, but I’ve never felt that here, and the people are tolerant and friendly,
“I’ve never felt as comfortable as I do here.”
Help with food & pharmacy costs
Fuel to reach out-of-area appointments
Financial assistance with energy bills (EAPA)
We can help anytime with information, advice & referrals for legal problems, homelessness, domestic/ family violence & other issues.
q A Moment of Piece 2024 by Isabella Warters,14 years.
q Python on a Wire 2024 by Sarah-Jane Eggins.
q Dead livestock on the beach.
Farmers urged to report disaster damage
NSW FARMERS is encouraging all flood affected landholders to report damage through an official government survey to help target disaster assistance for their region.
The Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment (PiNDDA) from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is a survey used to determine what government support the agricultural sector needs to recover from natural disasters.
NSW Farmers Vice President Rebecca Reardon said filling out the survey would give the NSW Government a clear understanding
of the damage caused by record floods across the Hunter and Mid North Coast.
“We know your time is limited and so is your connectivity, but if you have had infrastructure or machinery damage, loss of livestock, crops or fodder as a result of these floods, we really encourage you take a few minutes to report it through this short survey,” Mrs Reardon said.
“This information helps authorities understand the scale and scope of a natural disaster, so they can then target resources and assistance to that area.
“These floods have broken records in a bad way, and it’s
important we communicate that back to the government so we can get the assistance we need.
“It’s going to take an unprecedented effort to get our farm communities back on their feet after this disaster, but our government must back us up so we can keep on producing the food that feeds the 25 million people in our nation alone.”
On Monday, Ms Reardon said farmers were still in the dark as to what further disaster assistance – if any – would be made available by the state government to get them back on their feet in the wake of the disaster.
“This flood has come just months after Cyclone Alfred, and the
cumulative effect of these disasters has devastated farmers and their families,” Mrs Reardon said.
“We haven’t been able to assess the full scale of this disaster yet, but we know without a doubt that the damages will be in the hundreds of millions.
“Farmers prepared as much as possible, but fences and farm infrastructure have been swept away, paddocks washed out, roads cut and ruined, livestock affected, oyster farms wiped out, and pastures, orchards and crops sent underwater.”
Currently, Category B concessional loans and transport subsidies are available for farmers
Funding awarded for war memorial
THE Gloucester RSL subBranch will receive $10,000 in NSW Government funding for conservation work on the Gloucester Memorial Clock Tower.
Minister for Veterans David Harris announced the sub-Branch as one of the successful applicants from Round 2 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund.
The Gloucester Memorial Clock Tower was constructed in 1931.
A tall clock tower constructed of red-brick, concrete and stone located in the middle of Gloucester Memorial Park, it features a large brass dedication plaque, bearing an inscription for World War One.
Several plaques and honour
rolls for the Second World War and other conflicts have been attached to the tower at later dates.
MidCoast Council was also awarded $10,000 for conservation work on the Wingham Memorial Town Hall in the centre of the town that has since been severely impacted by floods.
Officially opened in April 1924, the now century-old memorial was first dedicated to those who served in the First World War, and today also includes plaques honouring those who served in the Second World War, Korea and Vietnam.
The memorial’s foundation stone was laid by Major General Sir Charles Rosenthal KCMG, who served on the frontline at Gallipoli
and on the Western Front.
Thirty-one applications were received in this round, which closed on 12 February 2025.
President of RSL NSW Mick Bainbridge said, “RSL NSW welcomes the State Government’s announcement of the latest Community War Memorials Fund grant recipients.
“These grants play a vital role in ensuring that local war memorials across our state are properly maintained and preserved.
“War memorials are more than just stone and bronze — they are sacred focal points where communities come together to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
“By protecting these sites,
we preserve the legacy of those who served and ensure future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Applications are currently open for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund.
For the first time, the grant program is running as a single annual round with increased funding of up to $15,000 available for individual projects.
More information on the program and details on how to apply are available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov. au/heritage/community-warmemorials-fund.
Applications for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund close at 11pm on 25 June 2025.
Do you need help after the recent severe weather?
The NSW Reconstruction Authority is here to support you on your road to recovery.
Recovery Centres are now open in Taree, Kempsey, Macksville, Port Macquarie and Maitland. These centres provide face-to-face support including:
• Financial assistance and grants
• Insurance and legal advice
• Housing and accommodation support
• Mental health and wellbeing services
To find your nearest Recovery Centre, visit nsw.gov.au/floodrecoveryupdates, or call 13 77 88
affected by current circumstances in the Hunter and Mid North Coast.
However, Mrs Reardon said Category C disaster assistance must be rolled out immediately for affected farmers, with Category D assistance to follow directly after.
To submit information to the survey or to find out more, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/emergencies/emergency/ community/primary-industriesnatural-disaster-damage-survey.
For assistance with completing the survey, farmers should contact their region’s Local Land Services office or a DPIRD Development Officer.
NSW Reconstruction Authority
q The Gloucester Memorial Clock Tower. Photo: Graham Wilson.
Dealing with DV after funding 'neglected' for years
By Jack GRAMENZ, AAP
MORE than half a billion dollars will go towards
dealing with domestic violence in a bid to undo years of "neglect" in Australia's most populous state.
The funding will go towards supporting victimsurvivors and keeping alleged abusers behind bars to "build
a safer NSW".
The government announced the funding pledges on Monday before the state budget is unveiled on June 24.
About half of the money is earmarked for a $227 million injection into the state's victims' support service over five years.
The service helps victim-survivors and family members access counselling and financial assistance.
Non-government support services will get more certainty around funding with five-year contracts promised.
Almost $50 million will be spent on making it easier for victim-survivors to give evidence, with remote courtrooms sparing them the risk of attending the same court complex as their abuser.
The funds will also provide counselling, legal aid and financial advice at a hub expected to open in late 2027.
"This hub will make a major difference, especially for women and children who have mustered the courage to give evidence against a domestic violence perpetrator," Premier Chris Minns said.
Recent changes to bail for alleged domestic violence offenders has also increased the number of inmates on remand, pushing the state's prison population to near record-highs.
More than $100 million will go towards corrective services to help cope with the increase.
Another change ensured all bail decisions would be made by magistrates, following the high-profile
Flood victims wait in hope for future-proof solutions
By Sebastian TAN, AAP
FROM the door of Mel Connell's gift shop, in shindeep water, the only things still recognisable were a few hanging festoon and fairy lights.
After 14 years as a small retailer, she had to refashion her premises after floods ripped through the northern NSW town of Lismore in February 2022.
By September, Ms Connell had reopened with $50 in her pocket and an unfinished building. She was thousands more short in products and equipment.
Three years later, she still feels the impact.
"It's been an extremely hard slog, I'm never doing that again," Ms Connell tells AAP.
"I've got a business, my partner also has a job here, we've got a home loan. We can't just pack up and leave."
Every time it rains heavily, she "freaks out".
"People died here and we had a billion-dollar emergency, so I just wish the government would actually have some kind of plan in place to help us in the future."
Tensions are high across the state's mid north coast and Hunter regions with more than a thousand properties uninhabitable and dozens more beyond repair.
Insurance premiums have skyrocketed, with residents launching GoFundMe efforts to help salvage inundated homes.
The Fitzgerald family in Taree had to set one up after insurers declined to cover them after they were flooded for the first time.
"When the second flood
struck, they were left with absolutely nothing," says campaign organiser Sharon Revell.
"To make matters even more heartbreaking, the boys recently lost their beloved mum to terminal cancer.
"Her passing has left three sons, one of whom lives with a disability, without their home, their stability and their mother."
Elsewhere, GoFundMe organisers say insurance premiums for another second-time victim jumped four times their original cost following NSW floods in March 2021.
About 1.36 million properties are at any time at risk of flooding across the state and in Victoria and Queensland, according to the Insurance Council of Australia.
In Lismore, Ms Connell wants to see infrastructure built to withstand future events after 2022 triggered an exodus of residents.
"People would reinvest into the town and not just our town, everywhere," she says.
"We've had eight years with floods, we're trying to get the town back on its feet and it would bring positivity back.
"It would be life-changing for a lot of people and having some kind of... solution so they don't leave the postcode and can still purchase a property out of the flood zone would contribute to the economy here."
There may be light at the end of the tunnel for residents and business owners with the insurance council calling for government and the sector to establish a $30 billion dollar fund to protect flood-prone
communities.
In a report issued prior to the federal election, it urged the building more flood defence infrastructure, buying-back properties and strengthening others in harm's way.
"There is a solution. It's going to be a publicprivate partnership between government and insurers," the council's executive director Andrew Hall told Sydney radio station 2GB this week.
"There are 220,000 homes on the east coast of Australia that are sitting in a two or five percent chance of flooding every year.
"We've priced the derisking of 24 catchments on the east coast over a period of 10 years."
However in Taree, a community which has been decimated by the recent floods, Mayor Claire Pontin says council looked at constructing higher levees but the cost outweighed the benefit.
"Had we built those levees back then, this flood would have gone over the top of them anyway," she says.
"All those issues about flood mitigation works to try and make our assets, and the community's assets, more resilient to flooding is on the table."
Inflated insurance premiums have become a recurring conversation with flood affected victims.
Last year, residents told of being forced to endure unreasonable wait times and being overcharged by insurers to an inquiry into flood failures.
One claimed to have been left in the lurch for 18
months.
"I am emotionally exhausted, I lost all my belongings," they said in a submission.
"I have tried to obtain online quotes from other insurers and they are either exorbitant or they refuse to insure in our area.
"We applied for a buyback of the property through the resilient homes fund but have been rejected, despite having six properties surrounding us that have been bought back and in the process of being demolished."
The NSW Department of Planning is in the throes of responding to inquiry recommendations following the 2022 floods.
"The government is stopping inappropriate developments on dangerous floodplains," according to a
spokesperson.
"To proactively plan and mitigate against the impacts of floods in NSW, the Department is taking a riskbased approach to planning decisions on dangerous flood plains."
Queensland's Department of Infrastructure says it has been liaising with other agencies on policy.
"Key actions such as natural hazard mapping (has been) undertaken across the state and each local government area implements their own flood risk mapping tools for Queenslanders to utilise and check risk for personal safety and property," a spokesperson says.
"The department continues to work closely with various other agencies and local councils responsible for navigating the state's preparedness for natural hazards, risk and resilience, particularly when it comes to
April 2024 murder of Molly Ticehurst in Forbes, allegedly by her former boyfriend Daniel Billings, who was granted bail by a registrar about two weeks earlier. Ten virtual courtrooms are planned to support remote bail hearings, along with an additional five courtrooms at major courthouses in Sydney's city centre, costing almost $35 million.
The funds will lay the foundation for longer-term reforms, Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Jodie Harrison said.
"This is work that previous governments have neglected for many years."
1800
land use."
About 300,000 people lodged claims with insurance companies after the 2022 NSW floods, with the state and Commonwealth committing more than $3.5 billion for recovery.
Assistant federal treasurer Daniel Mulino says some insurers have been too slow to clean up devastated communities.
"(About) 90 to 95 percent of claims are resolved within a year or so but that still leaves a very large number of claims hanging on," he this week told ABC Radio.
"We've seen in a number of instances, hundreds and sometimes thousands of people with still unresolved claims a year or even two years after the disaster."
Some 6000 people currently have claims lodged with the insurance council.
Applications opened on Friday for commonwealthstate payments to help cover costs for items including food, clothing, medication and emergency accommodation.
q NSW Premier Chris Minns. Photo: Nikki Short/AAP Image.
q Flood victims in Lismore like Mel Connell want more done to prepare for future disasters. Photo: Mel Connell.
By Jack GRAMENZ, AAP
KING Charles III has expressed his admiration for emergency services and volunteers who responded to deadly flooding in Australia's most populous state.
Five people died and more than 1200 buildings were made uninhabitable after the record-breaking deluge across the NSW midnorth coast and surrounding regions.
The flooding, which has now mostly ended, "greatly concerned" himself and his wife, Queen Camilla.
"We can only say that our thoughts are very much with all those who have been affected so badly, especially the family and friends of the five people who tragically lost their lives," the King said in a message shared by Australia's Governor-General Sam Mostyn.
"We send our special prayers and deepest sympathy to all who mourn them."
The King also praised the thousands of people who responded to the disaster, including 2200 SES volunteers, 2000 council and
utilities workers and scores of volunteers from grassroots groups.
"I have the greatest admiration for the emergency services, the volunteers and volunteer organisations, as well as the disaster recovery agencies, who are now gathering to work together and support one another on the long road to recovery," he said.
Dairy farmers, meanwhile, are facing crippling financial situations to keep their cows fed and watered on the mid-north coast.
The mammoth floods wiped out farmland and swept some cattle into towns and out to sea, while others were drowned where they stood.
"Tackling the 'cash crunch' for farmers and communities will not only keep our farmers producing milk, but also benefit the regional communities where they shop," Australian Dairy Farmers president Ben Bennett.
He called for more government support, as more assistance was made available for those impacted
by flooding on Friday.
Federal disaster recovery payments will be available for impacted residents on the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie council areas on Friday afternoon.
The payments have already been made available in Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Maitland, Mid Coast, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Port Stephens local government areas.
"We know this has been a traumatic time for many,
The one-off payment is worth $1000 for adults and $400 for children who have suffered major damage to their homes, serious injuries, or deaths in the family as a result of the flooding.
and this financial support is about making sure people aren't left to face the recovery alone," Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said.
Applications also opened on Friday for federal-state payments to help cover costs for things like food, clothing, medication and emergency accommodation.
The one-off payment is worth up to $180 for individuals and $900 for families in severely impacted suburbs.
Primary producers such as dairy farmers can also access concessional loans.
More support is being finalised, pending the completion of damage assessments.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330
entitlements.
q King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited NSW seven months ago. Photo: Mark Baker/AAP Image.
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
THE PIANO
ABC TV, 7.30pm
You’d have to be made of stone not to shed a tear when watching this poignant and powerful reality series highlighting the extraordinary stories of everyday Australians and the power of the piano. Hidden away as host Amanda Keller interrogated the public in train stations, shopping centres and markets, musical powerhouse Harry Connick Jr and classic concert pianist Andrea Lam have slowly been casting for a concert at Sydney’s City Recital Hall – and tonight’s the big night. With Connick Jr and Lam guiding them, Grace, John, Stefania (pictured), DJ and Vincenzo will share the musical opportunity of a lifetime.
FRIDAY, June 6
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis discovers how a sauna can save frogs.
8.35 The One That Got Away. (Mal) Rick and Ffion face a dangerous new suspect.
9.25 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
11.20 ABC Late News.
11.40 Father Brown. (PGav, R)
12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
MONDAY
FARMER WANTS A WIFE
SEVEN, 7.30pm
As finale week begins for this romantic reality romp, two farmers have already found their happily ever afters (or so we believe… we’ll find out how their fairytales have turned out in an upcoming reunion). A third – South Australian wheat, barley and lentil producer Thomas (pictured) – is on the cusp of telling Clarette that she’s won his heart, but first he has to break the news to Rachael and Laura. Meanwhile, Jack and Corey find out if mother really knows best – taking the contestants of their parents’ choosing on their final 24-hour dates. Jack makes up for lost time with vet Olivia, while Corey heads out on the water with Keeley and prepares for a tough goodbye back at the farm.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Malta: The Jewel Of The Mediterranean. (PGa, R) 9.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Atlantic Crossing. (PGa, R)
11.55 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R)
1.45 The Head. (Malv)
3.45 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY
KILLING SHERLOCK WITH LUCY WORSLEY
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGal) Mel Doyle and Shane Crawford are joined by Yvie Jones and Dr Renee Lim to explore pet therapy.
9.30 MOVIE: Where The Crawdads Sing. (2022, Masv, R) A girl becomes a murder suspect. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith.
12.05 Nurses. (Ma, R)
1.05 Harry’s Practice. (R)
1.35 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
(62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 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 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)
It’s hard to imagine that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of literature’s most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes – the hero of more than 60 original stories and more adaptations than we have space to list – came to hate his iconic creation. But as historian Lucy Worsley (pictured) examines in this intriguing three-part series, Doyle decided that his rather lucrative character had made him enough money, and sent Holmes over the edge of a waterfall in a 1893 story. In Thursday’s conclusion, Worsley investigates what drove Doyle to revive the sleuth in 1903 and how the author had a falling out with magician Houdini.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 14. Dolphins v St George Illawarra Dragons.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus St George Illawarra Dragons match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R) An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin.
1.00 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple want to move to the Northern Beaches.
8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrities include Pamela Anderson. 10.30 10’s
6.00
SATURDAY, June 7
6.10 Father Brown. (Final, PGav) Mrs Devine’s son is framed for murder.
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Sister Julienne presents Joyce with an award.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) The discovery of a saint’s bones at an archaeological dig causes a stir in the village.
10.05 Bergerac. (Ml, R) There’s a breakthrough in the search for Cate’s phone.
10.50 Reunion. (Mlv, R) Christine is closer to the answers she seeks.
11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm The Most Magnificent Thing. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. (Return) 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar: Freedom. (Mal, R) Elizabeth Taylor struggles to reinvent herself.
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: English Country Idyll (Stourhead And Scotney Castle) (PGa) Explores a missing masterpiece.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A look at immigration, customs and quarantine.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 13. GWS Giants v Port Adelaide. From Corroboree Group Manuka Oval, Canberra.
10.30 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012, Mv, R) A US Navy ship fights aliens. Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård.
1.05 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Perth Super 440. Day 1. Highlights.
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 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE: No Time To Die. (2021, Malv, R) 11.45 MOVIE: Into The Blue 2: The Reef. (2009, MA15+sv, R) 1.15 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R) 1.35 The Garden Gurus. (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)
Or
with
in the Sutherland Shire of NSW. 8.40 House Hunters Australia. (R) Married business owners who need a weekend escape from their chaotic lives search for a retreat in the Blue Mountains. 9.40 Airport Australia 24/7. (PGad, R) The airport faces a blackout and a plane has to turn back shortly after take-off with a reported faulty engine.
SUNDAY, June 8
6.30 Compass: Grief, A Love Story. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (Final, PG) The day of the concert arrives.
8.30 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv) Bergerac must save his daughter, confront his past and finally crack the case.
6am Children’s Programs. 4.45pm Gardening Australia Junior. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Bluey’s Big Play. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Isadora Moon. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Super Shark Highway. (Premiere) 10.30 Abbott Elementary. 10.50 Late Programs.
6am The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 8.05 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 10.00 The Tender Bar. (2021, M) Noon Radioactive. (2019, M) 2.05 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 4.15 Goal! (2005, PG) 6.25 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 8.30 The Drover’s Wife. (2021, MA15+) 10.30 Day And Night. (2010, MA15+, German) 12.25am The 355. (2022, M) 2.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (Final, PG, R)
8.25 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (Mav, R)
9.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 1. 11.05 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R)
11.55 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)
2.40 The World From Above. (R)
3.40 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
(31) VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Belle. (2013, PG) 8.30 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 10.35 The 355. (2022, M) 12.50pm Lions For Lambs. (2007, M) 2.30 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.25 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 6.25 Charade. (1963, PG) 8.30 The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 10.15 Sira. (2023, MA15+, French) 12.30am The Drover’s Wife. (2021, MA15+) 2.30 Late Programs.
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(64) SBS MOVIES (32)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Malv) 10.00 Crime Investigation Australia. (Mav, R) 11.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Perth Super 440. Day 2. Highlights. 12.20 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R) 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 NBN
ABC FAMILY (22)
MONDAY, June 9
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.10 Dance Life. 10.00 Secret Life Of The Koala. (Premiere) 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PGa, R)
8.20 Michael Palin In Nigeria. (PGaw, R)
9.15 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Living Black. (R) 11.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 2. 1.25 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)
3.15 The World From Above. (PG, R)
3.45 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) The final 24-hour dates end with some unexpected revelations from the ladies before an emotional farm farewell.
9.00 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena attempts to land the plane before it crashes and calls on the 118 for help.
11.00 The Agenda Setters. 12.00 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Malv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
A Current Affair.
LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PG)
Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 1. Finals.
100% Footy. (M)
6am Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 7.50 Charade. (1963, PG) 10.00 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, M) Noon The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 1.40 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 3.45 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 5.50 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 7.30 The Straight Story. (1999) 9.40 Vampyros Lesbos. (1971, German) 11.20 The City Of Lost Children. (1995, M, French) 1.30am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, June 10
I Was Actually There. (Ma, R) 10.15 ABC Late News.
10.30 The Business. (R) 10.50 Four Corners. (R) 11.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 11.55 Books That Made Us. (Final, Malsv, R) 12.50 Love Your Garden. (R) 1.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 3.
1.25 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
3.05 The World From Above. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
(64) SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
Skating To New York. (2013, PG) 7.40 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 9.25 The Movie Show. 10.00 The City Of Lost Children. (1995, M, French) 12.05pm The Straight Story. (1999) 2.15 Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 3.35 Every Day. (2018, PG) 5.25 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 7.30 Gosford Park. (2001, M) 10.05 Like Water For Chocolate. (1992, M, Spanish) 12.05am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
8.35 Doc. (Ma) Amy and Richard reconnect while treating a patient whose diagnosis is not at all what it seems.
9.35 Accused. (Mav) A divorced woman is put on trial.
10.35 The Agenda Setters.
11.35 Autopsy USA: Adam West. (Ma)
12.35 Fairly Legal. (PGalsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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WEDNESDAY, June 11
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (M)
8.30 The Veil. (Mal) Imogen and Adilah continue their journey to Paris.
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 History Of The Amalfi Coast. (PGa, R) 11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour.
Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 4.
1.25 The Wall: The Orchard. (Malsv, R)
3.05 The World From Above. (R)
4.05 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.
Framed. 3.05 News. 3.10 WorldWatch. 5.10 Forged In Fire. 6.00 Alone Germany. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Seven. (1995, MA15+) 10.50 MOVIE: Hereditary. (2018, MA15+) 1.10am (Re)Solved. 2.05 Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over. 3.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 Unbelievable Moments
Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
11.00 Born To Kill? (Mav, R)
12.00 Touching Evil. (MA15+adv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 3. Finals.
Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
9News Late.
The Equalizer. (Mv, R) 12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Next Stop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
THURSDAY,
June 12
(R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Our Medicine. (PG)
8.45 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley. (PGh)
9.45 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mv)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 The Day The Rock Star Died: Buddy Holly. (R)
11.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 5. 1.25 Pagan Peak. (MA15+asv, R) 3.05 The World From Above. (R) 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PGa, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Dirty Rotten Cleaners. 2.10 Insight. 3.10 News. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Forged In Fire. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Roswell: The First Witness. 10.05 The UnXplained With William Shatner.
6am The Movie Show. 6.20 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 8.15 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 10.20 Gosford Park. (2001, M) 12.55pm Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi) 3.15 The Movie Show. 3.45 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 5.25 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 7.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, M) 9.30 The Piano. (1993, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 8.10 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 10.25 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, M) 12.20pm Like Water For Chocolate. (1992, M, Spanish) 2.20 Helene. (2020, PG, Finnish) 4.35 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 6.35 Discovering Film: Gene Hackman. 7.30 Casablanca. (1942, PG) 9.30 Apocalypse Now Redux. (1979, MA15+) 1.25am Late Programs.
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(64) SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGads) Harper might be making the wrong choice.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG)
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (Final, PG) Judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli must decide who will be the winner and pocket $250,000.
11.00 Inside Detroit. (Mal, R)
12.30 Raines. (Mahv)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Gloucester community? Whether they are a dedicated volunteer, a standout community member, or an all-round legend, we want to hear about them.
Please email with their details and we’ll get in touch to celebrate their wonderful contributions. tracey@newsofthearea.com.au Dungog Shire & Gloucester District News Of The Area newsofthearea.com.au
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Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
PUZZLES
DEAR Jasminda,
It’s Normine B again. It was so much worse than you imagined.
As my brother in law was ripping down the driveway, he knocked over my prize geraniums, breaking the pot and my heart while he was at it.
The dog thankfully came away unscathed, but the cat wasn’t so lucky.
He now has a bruise on his nose. I’m thinking of filing a lawsuit. What do you think?
Normine B
Dear Normine,
While I would not normally respond to two conundrums from the same person, I now feel emotionally
involved in your life (a dangerous position for an Agony Aunt to be in).
This morning, I woke to a frightful vision of your brother fanging it down the driveway in his (noiseless) Tesla, hence not alerting the dog or cat.
I then imagined him careening into your prized geraniums, a shard of terracotta flinging against his bumper and slicing through his "I bought it before he was crazy" sticker (a foreshadowing of your brother's declining mental state that those following along should take note of).
The dog (a white Shitzu) now alert to the ruckus, bolted under the house and managed to commando roll in a sticky black substance hidden there for a future fireplace restoration.
When he emerged, he looked more like Pepe le Pew.
It was not his finest moment and an ominous precursor to his showdog potential the following weekend.
Meanwhile, while your head
was buried in your lap (crying over spilt geraniums and your diminished social standing at the Brinsdale Best in Show Extravaganza), Calvin (your rare Exotic Shorthair with attitude) took the Tesla head on (quite literally).
That he came away with only a bruised nose (and ego) was a miracle in this otherwise cataclysmic (intentional witticism) evening.
Normine, I feel as though this situation is getting too unwieldy to remedy.
I don't recommend a lawsuit, which would be a drawn-out process with no winners.
Sort of a cross between Careful, He Might Hear You and Wolf Creek. Normine, you need to rise above the situation and let bygones be bygones (though I doubt Calvin will forget this anytime soon).
Re-pot some new geraniums (a tad too obvious metaphor for regeneration) and hold your head high.
Carpe
News Of The Area
SUDOKU
diem, Jasminda.
Gloucester Study Hub opening soon
If you’re kickstarting a degree, retraining into a new industry or simply taking the first small step towards study, get in touch with us. Supported
FREE STUDY
HUB + FACILITIES
Available 5am – Midnight for Registered TUC Gloucester students!
Saving local wildlife
By Wendy BUSWELL
ACROSS NSW, over 110,000 native animals from more than 500 species are rescued annually, according to the Department of Environment and Heritage.
Organisations like FAWNA (For Australian Wildlife Needing Aid), a not-for-profit group, play a crucial role in helping sick, injured or orphaned native animals, which maximises their chances of returning to their natural habitats.
FAWNA is entirely run by trained volunteers.
Graeme Healy has been a volunteer for FAWNA for over 10 years, caring for wildlife on his property in Craven.
"I became a volunteer because I found an injured wallaby, and I had no idea what to do," he said.
"I didn’t know at the time that there were certain protocols to follow.
"I have [now] raised and released two to four macropod joeys each year, primarily red-necked wallabies, but also swamp wallabies, pademelons, and occasionally wallaroos.
“All were successfully released, and many have been seen later with their joeys.”
Annemie Pelletier, another FAWNA carer,
specialises in birds and has been caring for and releasing magpies, kookaburras, and eastern rosellas back into the wild for several years.
"I am amazed at the resilience of animals," she said.
"I recently cared for a baby bowerbird that I thought would die, but it kept getting stronger.
“It was very exciting to see it grow."
All FAWNA carers must complete a training course and continue to update their skills and knowledge.
Dominique Jacobs spoke about the delight in caring for wildlife.
“It is a rewarding thing to do. There are so many joyful moments.”
She recounted a moment when a firefighter handed her a smoke-traumatised joey during the 2019 fires.
The animal was small and weak but “became a huge, beautiful wallaby”.
Finding release sites for different species of animals is a challenge for FAWNA.
“It would be great to find people with land who are willing to care for animals,” she said.
“Some carers look after their animals for six to eight months, but there are also opportunities to care for
community conversations
coming soon to GLOUCESTER
animals just before they are released.”
Annemie, Dominique, and Graeme emphasised the importance of checking a female macropod’s pouch.
“The joeys rely on people to rescue them,” Dominique said.
In addition to caring for animals, FAWNA operates a 24-hour rescue phone line –6581 4141.
Since 2022, Graeme has been operating the phones most Tuesdays.
"Working the phones is completely different from being a rescuer and carer, but I feel that my experience as a carer has helped me in this role," he said.
"We need phone operators to help share the workload.
Annemie also finds being a phone operator enjoyable.
"You do need to complete a short training session, but if you can communicate on the phone, even if you aren’t mobile, it’s a great way to contribute to FAWNA," she said.
WIRES does not operate in the MidCoast Area, so FAWNA is the group to contact when finding an injured animal.
To contact or join the service, call 6581 4141 or visit the website fawna.org. au.
Youth crime committee tables first report
with the justice system,” Mr Atalla said.
Right now we’re heading back out to 15 local communities across the MidCoast to provide you with an update on what we’re delivering in your area.
The program has proven to be a great way for everyone to stay updated, ask questions and speak with council staff, and it helps us understand the things that matter to your community.
We look forward to sharing this update with you.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
MidCoast Council Chambers, Gloucester
Thursday 19 June 2.30 - 4pm
Also coming to other locations across the region.
FIND OUT MORE
Scan to learn more and for the full schedule of dates and locations.
THE first report of an inquiry into community safety has been tabled, highlighting an urgent need for early intervention to deal with the complex social drivers of youth crime in regional and rural NSW.
Since adopting the inquiry on 20 March 2024, the Committee of Law and Safety received almost 200 submissions and conducted hearings in Bourke, Broken Hill, Kempsey and Sydney, with additional meetings held in Wagga Wagga and the Mid North Coast.
Committee Chair and MP for Mount Druitt, Mr Edmond Atalla, said the report is informed by powerful testimonies from individuals and communities directly impacted by crime.
“We’ve heard firsthand from people who've experienced the trauma of crime in their communities.
“The message is loud and clear: people feel unsafe, and they want lasting solutions,” Mr Atalla said.
"Our report emphasises that youth crime is a complex issue that can't be addressed through policing alone.
“Evidence overwhelmingly supports early intervention and community-based support programs as the most effective tools to prevent youth offending.
“Our recommendations highlight the need for a long term approach to community safety."
Mr Atalla said toughon-crime responses might seem appealing, but don’t deliver long-term change.
“We need to invest in what works and that means supporting vulnerable young people early, before they come into contact
The report also identifies significant service gaps, referral inefficiencies, and funding constraints that limit the effectiveness of current early intervention efforts.
The Committee’s recommendations aim to strengthen these systems and expand effective programs.
“We are deeply thankful to the people who shared their experiences and insights with us.
“Your voices have shaped this report, and we have tried to reflect your testimony as authentically as possible.”
The Committee's inquiry is ongoing, and a final report will be furnished at a later date.
The report can be found on http://www.parliament. nsw.gov.au/committees/ inquiries/Pages/inquirydetails.aspx?pk=3042.
q Joey in Dominique Jacobs’ care. Photo: supplied.
q Graeme Healy feeding a joey. Photo: supplied.
Workers ‘broke’ as floods cause log jam
By John SAHYOUN
THE region’s primary industries have had a difficult year with the recent floods only adding to the stress being experienced by many businesses.
A very wet summer leading into the recent East Coast Low and then almost immediately followed by flooding rains, has devastated many local businesses.
Anthony Dorney, Managing Director of the Dorney Group, which operates mills and associated services, said there were a number of factors that have led to worsening conditions for the timber industry.
“The Government has been cutting back on available timber and closing off compartments [for] the Great Koala Koala
Park which makes it harder to source logs,” he said.
“Also, the wet conditions have made it impossible to get the cut logs out of the forest with two floods this year hampering the sourcing of wood.
“In the last two weeks we have only been able to work at 20 percent capacity at our mills.”
He said many workers are broke and are unable to access relief payments.
“With the mills and associated services employing 120 people in our area and being the largest employer in Bulahdelah, it has a devastating effect on the entire local economy.
“If the workers have no money, then they can’t support the local businesses let alone
look after their families and pay their rent.”
They have tried to source timber from over 600km away but found a lack of hardwood, and poor quality, are significant issues.
Normally they hold a month’s supply which gets them through very wet conditions but the stockpiles are depleted.
“It’s the worst I’ve ever seen in the last 40 years and we are really struggling and have had to stand down workers on 12 occasions this year.”
Cattle and dairy farmers have also cited the prohibitive costs of insurance as having a negative impact on business.
It costs tens of thousands of dollars just to insure fences, so it becomes an almost impossible task on a minimal income to protect their properties.
Gloucester Junior Soccer
By Trudy SCHULTZ
ROUND 7 Match Report
Despite ongoing wet weather forcing play indoors once again, Gloucester Junior Soccer players delivered another spirited round of matches in Round 5, held at the Rec Centre on Saturday.
Mini Roos – Sponsored by Gloucester Valley Landscape Supplies
The youngest players— representing teams Australia Post Gloucester, Batter & Dough, and CalCo Surveyors—are quickly finding their rhythm. Confident play, improved skills, and a strong sense of enjoyment were evident across all games. Coaches
and parents alike praised the teams’ enthusiasm and sportsmanship.
Division 3 – Sponsored by Kelly+Partners Chartered Accountants
In what was a competitive and enjoyable fixture, Level Electrical faced off against The Common, with all players contributing strongly throughout the match. Meanwhile, Gloucester Landscapes took on Ollie’s Service Centre in another well-contested game, despite a few player absences. The teams showed great teamwork and a positive spirit, highlighting the depth of enthusiasm in this division.
Division 2 – Sponsored by
Worth the wait?
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
and most recently Lyon.
Montemurro's acquisition is a win for FA and finally ends months of uncertainty since Gustavsson's departure in the aftermath of Australia's group-stage exit at last year's Paris Olympics.
Matildas striker Caitlin Foord had accused FA of wasting time in their goslow recruitment process given Australia will host next year's Women's Asian Cup in what shapes as the most likely realistic chance for the team's senior players to lift silverware.
Prior to taking the Lyon job last June, Montemurro was a free agent and even took charge of the A-League Women All Stars in a one-off match in Melbourne.
FA had the perfect opportunity to sound the Melburnian out but didn't and left the Matildas in a holding pattern under interim head coach Tom Sermanni.
"Twelve months ago Joe
was appointed the All Stars coach and we were about to go into an Olympic Games," interim chief executive Heather Garriock said in Sydney on Monday.
"Respect is important for Football Australia and Tony Gustavsson was taking the Matildas to the games to win a medal, so I don't think it's a missed opportunity.
"Everything happens for a reason, and I believe this moment is now, and to have Joe with a French championship under his belt is only going to help the Matildas."
Garriock said "all good things come to those who wait" and described Montemurro's appointment as a coup for FA.
"We had a criteria going into the global search for a coach and every one of the criteria, Joe ticks," Garriock said.
"That's the reason why we have fought so hard to get Joe back to Australia because he's Australian, Australianbased, he loves football, he
IGA Loveys Grocers
Accommodation Gloucester was scheduled to play Ray White Gloucester; however, a number of absences forced Ray White to forfeit the match.
Demonstrating the club’s strong community spirit, players Lochie and Nate swapped teams to ensure a friendly game went ahead.
The second match saw Gloucester Landscapes take on Chilli Air & Electrical. Chilli Air continues to develop as a unit, with players communicating well and looking for open passes. Their efforts were rewarded with a 4–2 victory in a match played in great spirit.
Division 1 – Sponsored by
loves the nation.
"He wants to develop the next generation, and he knows how to win trophies."
Montemurro walked away from the final year of his contract with Lyon on Sunday to take the Matildas gig with the Asian Cup on the horizon.
"I can smell some success. So let's hope it goes that way," he said.
Montemurro was due to watch Monday's friendly with Argentina in Canberra before briefly returning to Europe.
Montemurro, who will base himself back in Australia, missed out to Gustavsson in 2020 but will finally get the chance to coach the Matildas starting with a series of friendlies against Slovenia and Panama in WA later this month.
"There was something inside of me that was just telling me, it's time," Montemurro said.
"I had to make a hard decision but I believe the decision standing here now is the right one.
"I know the pressure that comes with this job, I know the expectations, but I also know what needs to be done."
Gloss-Ter Carwash Batter & Dough met Australia Post Gloucester in a fast-paced and high-energy game. Despite missing three
players, including Elliott— who cheered his team on from the sidelines—Australia Post put in a commendable performance. It was a
balanced and exciting match, with notable performances from players of all abilities and genders. Final score: 8–4.
Ladies Bowls Gloucester
By Jack HIGH
LADIES Bowls news from on the green 28th May
What a picture perfect day we were blessed with after a distressing week of rain and floods
We hope everything is okay with all those affected by the floods
We even had a visit from a helicopter mid morning just to add a little interest to our day
Getting back to a more serious note the Quarter Final of the Thelma Bolton Pairs was played with the following results
Jill Everett & Colleen Atkins 22 defeated J Hurworth (sub for H Banks) & Kerrie Green 13
Lorraine Ratcliffe & Cheryl West defeated Cheryl Tull & Ruth Redman in a close game 19- 14
Judy Sheely Bev Murray defeated Paula Standen and Patti West 21—8
The match of the day was Jenny Stevens & Karen Heininger coming home after a extra end was played to win 14—13 against Joan Ridgeway and Jill Carson
Congratulations to all players
Next weeks play will be the Semi Final between Colleen Atkins and Cheryl West team
Karen Heininger and Judy Sheely team
Social Bowls played resulted in a win for Bev Germon and Penny Gibson amongst a lot of laughter against Pat Cox and Di Pritchard 20—11
Ladies although we have entered a Pennant team in the Region Pennant to commence in July August we are still desperate for
players please consider playing for your club if you are not sure of the involvement of Pennants please talk to your Selectors.
The Entry Sheet for the Minor Singles has been put on the board and will close on 4th June (next Wednesday)so get your name up if you want to play in this event Open only to players who have not won this Competition
Last of all don’t forget the BIGGESTMORNING TEA this Friday at the Bowling Club 10am Cost is $10 The Quota Ladies and the Bowling Club ladies will be hosting this event and all proceeds will go to the Cancer Council hope to see you there and show your support to a very worthy cause.
q Managing Director Anthony Dorney says the timber industry is under stress.
Worth the wait?
By George CLARKE, AAP
Football Australia have finally announced Joe Montemurro as the Matildas' new full-time coach. Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS.
