By Joshua GILBERT
The
Poets pen new Verse in the Valley CATTLE WARNING
By Joshua GILBERT
Verse in the Valley participants and judges. Photo: supplied.
BEF has been confirmed in cattle near Wingham, with suspected cases around Hannam Vale, Lansdowne, Taree, Oxley, Mitchells Islands
John WATTS 0438 346 544 watts@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
Cattle trend dearer with recent rains
By Joshua GILBERT
reached a top price of $1,750 per head.
RAIN promised dearer cattle prices to $3,050 per cow and calf unit at the Ray White Livestock Gloucester Annual Female Sale.
A total of 860 head of cattle were yarded at the Gloucester Saleyards on 7 March, consisting of 400 cows and calf units.
A rain-filled sale didn’t put a dampener on the mood of the bidders, as cows and calves sold at an average price of $1,950 per unit and a high of $3,050 per unit.
Local agent Ken Maslen told News Of The Area, “Cows were generally $200/ head dearer due to the quality and condition of cattle, and the weather conditions.
Pregnancy tested in calf (PTIC) heifers sold to a top of $2,940 per head, while unjoined heifers
Poets pen new Verse in the Valley
FROM Page 1
poems and second place in both traditional and original serious poem categories.
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Along with the accolade, David joined locals Claire Reynolds, Tink Everett and the Bowden Brothers, and poets Paddy O’Brien and Ray Essery, on the saleyard stage to a sellout crowd.
Gloucester Rotary member Brian Beesley told News Of The Area, “The Poetry at the Saleyards event has been running for over 20 years.
“While it is one of
the major fundraisers for Rotary, it's much more about investing back in the people of Gloucester to have some fun, using homegrown talent like the Bowden Brothers and local poets,” he said.
The Rotary Club hopes to use the success of this year’s Verse in the Valley event as a springboard for bringing the event here permanently.
Those interested in joining a committee to help grow the event are encouraged to email the Rotary Club at rotarygloucester1@ gmail.com.
MIDCOAST Mayor Claire Pontin has issued a statement in response to social media “misinformation” that Council was considering bringing in a Special Rate Variation (SRV) in July.
“This is absolutely not the case,” she said.
“I can assure you that if Council was planning on an SRV (we are not) it would be very public as it requires an application to IPART and IPART requires
“Confidence was well up with recent rain received and the forecasted season,” Ken said. Paul Stacker received the top price of $3,050 for cows and calves at the sale, while Peter Lindley sold Charolais cows and calves for $2,700.
The Bradshaw Family sold cows and calves for $2,550, and Weegoona Pastoral Company sold fifteen cow and calf units for $2,420.
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that there be extensive consultation with the community.
“We know the MidCoast community do not want an SRV, so we are not pursuing one.
“We took this decision in May 2024 when we adopted our Sustainability Action Plan.”
Mayor Pontin said however there is likely to be a small increase in rates from July to cover increases in the cost of operations.
“IPART has recommended this be 3.8 percent in MidCoast and it is commonly referred to as the rate peg,” she said.
“We are also implementing the other aspects of our Sustainability Plan by identifying efficiency savings without reducing the level of service provision in order to put more money into our roads budget next year.”
CATTLE WARNING
and Gloucester.
As BEF is a virus spread by mosquitos it is expected to move south westerly throughout the wider Hunter region in the coming days/weeks and will persist until the onset of cooler weather and frost.
Hunter Local Land Service has asked producers to be on the lookout for fevers over 41 degrees Celsius, lameness, lethargy, drooling and a dull appearance.
“The virus causes a high fever and pain in the muscles and joints, so affected cattle are often observed by themselves, off their feed, seeking shade and water,” Hunter
Local Land Services said in a statement.
“On occasion BEF can cause pregnant cows to abort and bulls may become infertile for up to six months.
“In most cases young, light cattle show mild symptoms for one to three days, but heavier cattle such as bulls and cows may need some extra care.
“If cattle are down for an extended period, please seek veterinary advice.
“Medication sourced from your private veterinarian can reduce fever and inflammation aiding in recovery.
“If animals are down, protect them from the hot sun, provide water and hay.
“If unable to stand for a day or two, lifting or rolling cattle twice daily becomes important to prevent secondary complications.”
Cattle that have previously been exposed will have developed immunity to the disease, and calves under six months of age are rarely affected.
“Given that 2024 was a significant year for BEF along the east coast we are hoping that many (but not all) of our stock will have some immunity, and we predict that the most vulnerable animals will be those born after April 2024, or stock introduced to the area since April 2024,” Local Land Services said.
FROM Page 1
q Championship Winner David Stanley. Photo: supplied.
No urgent care clinics pledged for Lyne
INDEPENDENT candidate for Lyne Jeremy Miller says the electorate has been “overlooked” again in the Federal Government’s plans to open 50 new Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs).
Medicare UCCs provide urgent bulk-billed health care in a general practice setting, offering acute episodic care and treatment that does not require a hospital admission.
Labor has announced a $644 million package to open the clinics across Australia, including 14 in New South Wales.
Once all of Labor’s clinics are open, four out of five Australians will live within a 20-minute drive of a UCC, the government says.
However none are planned for the Lyne electorate, despite what Mr Miller describes as a “clear need”.
The Federal Election candidate says this is “simply not good enough”.
"Local voters have been forgotten by both major parties yet again,” Mr Miller said.
"If we don't stand up together and make our voices heard, the major parties will just keep ignoring us."
In the Hunter, both major parties have promised to deliver an urgent care clinic (UCC) in Maitland if successful at the 2025 Federal election.
Labor said the Maitland
clinic would begin operating seven days a week with extended hours in the 202526 financial year.
“At this election Australia faces a choice: a stronger Medicare with more bulk billing for all Australians under Labor, or more cuts to Medicare under Peter Dutton's Liberals,” said Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson.
“Only Labor will deliver a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Maitland.”
The Liberals on the other hand claim that Maitland is yet to receive a UCC due to being “taken for granted by Labor”.
“Labor has had three years to secure an Urgent
deliver,”
said. “After the last election, Hunter, Shortland, and Newcastle all received Urgent
Citizens Party announce Lyne candidate
q Stephen Burke.
WOOTTON’S Stephen Burke will contest the seat of Lyne for the Australian Citizens Party in the 2025 Federal election.
Mr Burke, who has lived in the region for the past two-and-a-half years with his wife Linda, is the operator of a small wholesale plant nursery.
His political involvement began in 1997, when he joined the newly formed One Nation Party (ONP).
“Some likeminded friends and I established a very proactive branch,” Mr Burke said.
“I was endorsed as a
candidate twice, served on the State Executive for two terms and was on the short list for the Senate preselection team before I left the ONP.”
Asked by the Citizens Party to run as a candidate for Lyne, Mr Burke said he is excited at the prospect of representing the region, despite admitting to “abhor career politicians”.
“Irrespective of the outcome of this election I will be involved in establishing a strong Citizens Party branch structure here in this electorate, and assisting the same elsewhere,” he said.
In terms of policies, Mr Burke said he opposes the “outsourcing and relegation of power” to consultants and unelected entities.
“These unaccountable decision makers want a cashless economy instead of a crash-proof economy, and they are increasingly usurping our rights and freedoms which are under siege.”
Mr Burke was a staunch
opponent of Labor’s recently proposed Misinformation and Disinformation (MAD) Bill.
“We (the Citizens Party) have been very active in opposing the MAD censorship bill which the Labor government dropped.
“This is a liberty of conscience and free speech issue.
“By whose standards do we decide what is hate
speech etc?”
Protecting the right to use cash is also high on his agenda.
“We must learn from the mistakes of other countries and keep cash in our economy.”
Mr Burke is an advocate for establishing a public auditor to maintain transparency in our banking system, and of providing greater support for regional
banking institutions.
If elected Mr Burke said he would work to free farmers from “burgeoning bureaucratic red and green tape” and protect primary producers from “predatory speculators who want to make a quick dollar by subdividing farmland”. Supporting small businesses is another campaign focus, particularly reducing the cost of energy.
Bucketts Way roadworks
ROADWORKS are continuing on the Bucketts Way south of Monkerai Road at Weismantels, between Gloucester and Stroud.
Those travelling recently on Bucketts Way will have noticed that a number of trees and other vegetation on the eastern edge of the road, just to the south of Monkerai Road, have been cleared.
News Of The Area asked Midcoast Council
the reason for the clearing, and whether any further vegetation removal is planned.
“MidCoast Council crews are working on constructing a south bound overtaking lane as well as the resealing of the north bound lane,” Council said in a statement.
“Traffic control is in place and motorists can expect minor delays.
“The project is expected to be complete by the end of June, weather permitting.
“No more clearing is expected to take place.”
“The work - which is funded by the Roads of Strategic Importance Initiative, a combination of State and Federal government contributions - will provide a safer, smoother improvement to the Bucketts Way including improved drainage.
Care Clinic for Paterson, but they have failed to
Liberal candidate for Paterson Laurence Antcliff
Care Clinics, but Paterson was left behind – I will make that right.”
q No Medicare Urgent Care Clinics have been pledged for the Lyne electorate, despite 50 being slated by Labor Australia-wide.
Stomp into the Stratford Bush Dance Fundraiser
By Wendy BUSWELL
TWO years ago Amanda Marsh and Kelly Pickett recognised the need for increased community engagement at the Stratford Community Hall.
They began organising an event to appeal to a wide range of community
members while raising funds for local breast and prostate cancer support groups in Gloucester.
“We decided that a bush dance would be a fantastic way to bring the community together,” Amanda explained.
The first Bush Dance in 2023 was a huge success, leading to the establishment
of the Annual Stratford Bush Dance and Fundraiser.
Graeme Healy, a supporter of the Stratford Bush Dance, shared his experience.
“I attended the first Stratford Bush Dance without knowing what to expect, and I wasn’t disappointed!” he said.
“It was so much fun and incredibly energetic.
Church farewells the Fergusons
By John WATTS
A SPECIAL service of thanks was held on Sunday 2 March at Gloucester Presbyterian
church to mark the end to the pastoral work and leadership of John and Lyn Ferguson. A casual meeting in the park between John Ferguson
and the then Pastor of the church Grant Abbott, led to John taking on the role of Pastor in 2023.
Friends and family travelled from places such as Port Macquarie, Newcastle and areas in between to join in the service and barbeque lunch.
During the service James Brooks representing the Inter Church Council (ICC) spoke of John’s spiritual leadership and energetic enthusiasm for his job, and participation in the ICC.
John was keen on the work of the ICC and was proactive in having all churches working together.
He was instrumental in starting a casual group of
“The band leader guided us through the steps at the beginning of each dance, and then we were off!
“It was wonderful to see so many community members of all ages enjoying themselves.
“It has become a mustattend event on my social calendar.”
This year marks the third Stratford Bush Dance, and Amanda and Kelly are excited about creating another successful fundraising event.
“Learning to bush dance is easy,” Amanda told News Of The Area.
“You don’t need to know any steps beforehand; the band is excellent at teaching the dances.
“One of the best things about bush dancing is that you don’t need a partner.
“You are constantly moving to the next person, so you’ll have made several new acquaintances by the night's end.”
The Stratford Bush Dance is well supported by locals and attracts keen bush dancers from outside the area.
“It is a night of fun,”
Amanda said.
“Dancing brings joy; I don’t think there has been one person in the hall who wasn’t smiling.”
This year’s Stratford Bush Dance will be held in the Stratford Community Hall on Saturday, 5 April, starting at 6pm.
Aged services expo
AN aged services expo will be held on Friday 14 March in coordination with the MidCoast Seniors Festival.
The expo will be run in partnership with the Manning Valley Senior Citizens Association from 10am until 2pm at Ormsby House, 24 Commerce Street, Taree.
Everyone is invited to come along for information and speak to people from a range of services including home care providers, dementia information and support, carer support,
men who meet Thursdays for coffee and a chat.
John also played a role in lobbying NSW Health to allow unused accommodation at the hospital to be made available for those in need.
Lyn was instrumental in setting up Samaritan boxes where soft toys and personal care items were sent to
aged care services, legal services, My Aged Care, mobility equipment, social and support groups, financial information and more.
“This is a great opportunity to find out about all the support services available for older people and their families all in the one place,” said Alex Mills, MidCoast Council’s Manager of Libraries Community and Cultural Services.
“Aged support services can help older people, and
children overseas in areas of extreme poverty.
After lunch, Morna Wilson presented a painting of the Bucketts to Lyn and John to remind them of their time in Gloucester, and John and Lyn cut a specially made farewell carrot cake.
“John and Lyn made an amazing contribution to the
their families live better lives and help them to plan for their changing needs in the future.”
Free tea and coffee will be available.
Drop in at any time during the expo.
NSW Seniors Festival is a statewide celebration held between 3-15 March annually.
For a full list of all the activities and information sessions go to www. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/ SeniorsFest
church,” said church member Elaine Murray.
“They both showed a great amount of enthusiasm for everything they took on and will be difficult shoes to fill.”
Services at the church continue every Sunday at 10:00am with guest speakers.
q The Stratford Bush Dance last year.
q Amanda Marsh, Steve Pennicuik (Prostate Cancer Support Group), Kathy Leimgruber (Breast Cancer Support Group) and Kelly Pickett.
q John and Lyn Ferguson cutting their farewell cake. Photo: supplied.
Higher household bills by 2030 under nuclear: report
By Poppy JOHNSTON, AAP
HOUSEHOLDS could fork out an extra $450 a year for power by 2030 if policymakers pursue nuclear and a slower renewable rollout, modelling suggests.
An analysis commissioned by the Clean Energy Council found the additional pricey gas needed under a nuclear pathway would drive bills higher by 2030 than if the renewables-led grid transition continues.
The modelling mirrors the energy policies on offer from the major federal parties - the Labor government is vying for 82 per cent of renewable energy in the grid by 2030, while the coalition is promising to build nuclear power plants.
Renewable energy would make up about half the energy grid by 2050 and nuclear power 38 per cent under the opposition plan.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has promised cheaper electricity long-term based on calculations it commissioned from consultancy Frontier
Economics.
Using AEMO's "progressive change" scenario for the nation's energy mix, Frontier found including nuclear energy would reduce costs from $437 billion to $331 billion - or slash costs by 44 per cent compared to the "step change" scenario.
Yet numbers crunched by professional services firm Jacobs on the clean energy industry body's behalf found households could expect a 30 percent average increase by 2030 under the nuclear pathway.
This would amount to an $449 annual increase for the typical consumer serviced by the main energy grid.
Small businesses could expect a $877 increase in their bills by 2030 if the clean energy rollout slows down while waiting for nuclear to be built.
Even bigger price jumps were possible were a coal generator to unexpectedly fail - something that becomes more likely as they age - as more gas would be needed to make up the shortfall.
Voters are set to go to the polls May 17, at the latest, and cost of living will be front of mind following a prolonged stint of high interest rates aimed at taming inflation.
Clean Energy Council chief executive officer Kane Thornton said halting renewable energy
deployment and relying on coal and gas before nuclear comes online would be a "disaster" for power prices.
"Australia would have to increase its reliance on increasingly expensive and unreliable old coal generation, as well as significantly increase gas generation, which is a much more expensive energy source," he said.
"Getting more renewables
into our system, such as solar and wind and backed by pumped hydro, batteries and small amounts of gas, is the cheapest and most reliable way to keep energy bills as low as possible for Australians."
The analysis considered the influence of wholesale electricity prices on power bills for households and small businesses under each scenario.
Network costs and other components of electricity bills were not included in the modelling.
Tuesday's power bill numbers follow the Climate Change Authority's report highlighting the nuclear power plan could push Australia's 2030 climate target out until 2042 and add two billion tonnes of carbon emissions to the environment by 2050.
q The nuclear pathway could increase household power costs by 30 per cent by 2030, a report says. Photo: Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 20 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook NSW 2333
Butchers, bakers and makers better off in the bush
By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP
BUTCHERS, bakers and smallgoods makers are better off living in the country, with research showing workers across nearly 100 occupations can get more bang for their buck in the bush.
City-based teachers, mechanics, general practitioners, chief executives, chefs, house cleaners and child care workers may also want to consider a move to the country for better pay.
There are 85 occupations where net incomes are higher in country Australia compared to the capitals, according to an analysis by the Regional Australia Institute released last week.
There was an income premium of 26 percent in remote areas with industries like agriculture and mining, particularly among truck drivers, machinery operators, tradies and technicians.
The findings of the Beyond City Limits report were significant not just for regional economies, but the national workforce, the institute's chief executive Liz Ritchie said.
"This report busts the long-held myth that you have to live in a major city to earn a high income," Ms Ritchie said.
The research used census and
tax data to look at incomes across occupations, before factoring in age, gender, education and housing costs.
Managers and sales workers' net incomes were lower in both inner regional and remote areas, while professionals and admin staff only experienced income premiums in remote or very remote areas.
Wages were slightly lower overall in inner regional areas, such as Albury, Dubbo, Bathurst and Wagga Wagga in NSW, the Latrobe region in Victoria and Toowoomba in Queensland.
Ms Ritchie said Australians needed to know about the career opportunities in regional areas, where there were 67,000 job vacancies in January.
"There are plenty of good jobs, where you can earn a very good income," she said.
"Combine that with the regions' livability factors, like less traffic, more affordable housing and access to nature and you can understand why so many people have already made the move."
The research recommended several policy focus areas, including promotion of regional jobs and social infrastructure investments.
The institute has launched its online interactive Regional Jobs Guide to help workers understand country labour markets.
ADVERTISEMENT
Authorised by Jeremy Miller, 224 Dowling Street, Dungog NSW 2420.
q When it comes to pay, butchers may be able to do better in the bush, according to a new report. Photo: Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOS.
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
DARBY AND JOAN
ABC TV, 7.30pm
This crime-solving series finds ex-detective Jack and widowed English nurse Joan (Bryan Brown and Greta Scacchi, both pictured) back on the road for its second season. This time, the travelling companions are on the hunt for answers about Jack’s past, hoping to clear his name and remove a dark cloud hanging over his career. As they travel through Queensland together, solving mysteries from town to town, the pair’s relationship is put to the test. Tonight’s premiere brings them into the orbit of brothers Doug (Martin Sacks) and Ellory (Gary Sweet), at war over their family farm.
FRIDAY, March 14
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Under The Vines. Daisy and Louis try to steal William’s thunder. 9.20 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)
9.50 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R)
10.20 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 10.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R)
ABC Late News.
11.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R)
Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
Rage. (PG)
MONDAY
SAM PANG TONIGHT
TEN, 8.40pm
“Channel 10 rejected my pitch to reboot The Golden Girls,” quips Sam Pang (pictured) about his latest project. The mind boggles when it comes to a re-imagining of the iconic sitcom – would the Paying Attention? mainstay play the wisecracking Sophia or the nononsense Dorothy? All jokes aside, Pang is reviving another classic format, the tonight show, something not seen on network TV for more than a decade. Over the next eight weeks, viewers can expect Monday nights to contain a razor-sharp monologue from the two-time Logies host, as well as local and international guests. Bolstered by a witty team that includes Seats’ Tim McDonald, you won’t want to miss this.
WEDNESDAY AUSTRALIA: AN UNOFFICIAL HISTORY
Diving through the National Film and Sound Archive’s stash of government films, made to record Australia’s emerging culture in the 1970s, screen legend Jacki Weaver (pictured) has uncovered a treasure trove of a time capsule in this docuseries full of gloriously daggy scenes but also radical social change. This third and final part focuses on Film Australia’s later years and a turn towards more diverse filmmaking as women, Indigenous creatives and gay activists took control of how their own stories were told. Journalist Jan Fran, comedian Zoë Coombs Marr and several of the films’ original subjects are among those who weigh in on these fascinating glimpses into ’70s society and how it shaped our own.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (M)
8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (Ma, R)
9.25 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead. (PG)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 A Body That Works. (Premiere, Ma)
11.50 Sisi. (MA15+ds, R) 12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 6. 2.45 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (PGaw, R) 3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour 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 Annie Smithers. 8.30 MOVIE: The Green Mile. (1999, MA15+av, R) An elderly man recalls his time as a prison guard where he befriended a man with an unusual gift. Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, David Morse.
12.10 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Penrith Panthers v Sydney Roosters. 9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Penrith Panthers versus Sydney Roosters match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Tango & Cash. (1989, Mlv, R) Two cops serve time in jail after being framed. Sylvester Stallone.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Fish Forever. (PGl, R)
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) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml) Graham Norton chats with celebrities. 9.50 Tom Gleeson: Lighten Up. (Mls, R) Stand-up
6.00
SATURDAY, March 15
Morning Programs. 9.05
6.00 Australian Story: Hooked – Dave Hughes. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Wheelbarrow Way, QLD. (PG, R) Joe O’Brien heads to Far North Queensland.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) Neville investigates a crypto-related death.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) Vera is drawn into a mystery that brings her closer to her estranged family than she would like.
10.00 The Newsreader. (Final, Ml, R) Dale and Helen turn to each other for support.
11.00 Unforgotten. (Final, Mal, R) 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 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. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe.
8.30 Blenheim: The People Behind The Palace. (Premiere)
9.25 Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye. (PGa, R)
10.25 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 7. 1.25 All Those Things We Never Said. (Ml, R)
2.40 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
3.35 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
7.30 MOVIE: RED. (2010, Mlv, R) Bruce Willis. 9.45 MOVIE: Atomic Blonde. (2017, MA15+lsv, R) An MI6 agent investigates an agent’s murder. Charlize Theron. 12.05 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 1. Highlights. 1.05 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, 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 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 5. Queensland Reds v NSW Waratahs.
9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match.
9.45 MOVIE: Honest Thief. (2020, Mlv, R) Liam Neeson.
11.40 Family Law. (Ma, R)
12.30 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R) 1.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PG, 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)
SUNDAY, March 16
(Final, R) 3.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (PG, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.05 A Dog’s World With Tony Armstrong. (R)
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Darby And Joan. (Return, PGa) Jack and Joan encounter two warring brothers.
8.20 Unforgotten. (Return, Madl) A new case begins for Jess and Sunny’s team.
9.05 Boat Story. (Premiere, MA15+alv) Two strangers discover cocaine on a boat.
10.05 MOVIE: The Turning. (2013, MA15+al, R)
1.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Kiri And Lou. 5.45 Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 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. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.20 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
6am Shaolin
7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. (PG)
8.25 Alhambra: At The Crossroads Of Cultures.
9.30 King Tut: Allies And Enemies. (PGa, R)
10.30 Death In The Tower: King Richard. (Mav, R)
11.30 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)
1.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 8.
3.30 Love Your Garden. (PGal, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
Soccer. (2001, PG, Cantonese) 8.10 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 10.00 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 12.10pm Healing. (2014, M) 2.20 On The Waterfront. (1954, PG) 4.20 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 6.20 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 8.30 Mystic River. (2003, MA15+) 11.10 Shame. (2011, MA15+) 1am The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 3.50 Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.10 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 8.20 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 10.35 We’re All Going To The World’s Fair. (2021, M) 12.10pm French Exit. (2020, M) 2.15 Selkie. (2000, PG) 3.55 Shaolin Soccer. (2001, PG, Cantonese) 6.00 The Natural. (1984, PG) 8.30 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 10.55 So Damn Easy Going. (2022, M, Swedish) 12.35am My Little Sister. (2020, MA15+, German) 2.30 Late Programs.
5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 WWE Legends. 11.45 MOVIE: The Meaning Of Hitler. (2020, M) 1.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl) 8.10 The Hunters: Rentakill. (M) A look at hit man Christopher Dale Flannery. 9.40 Ivan Milat: Buried Secrets. (MA15+av, R) 11.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne Supersprint. Day 2. Highlights.
12.10 The Bay. (Malv, R)
1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62) 7TWO
6am Children’s Programs. 1.05pm Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. Qatar 1812 km. H’lights. 2.15 Inside The Superbrands. 3.15 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 4.15 Young Sheldon. 5.45 MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel. (2009) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum: Battle Of The Smithsonian. (2009, PG) 9.40 MOVIE: The Beverly Hillbillies. (1993) 11.40 Late Programs.
Helping Hands. (PG, R) 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 See
6am
MONDAY, March 17
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lisbon With Michael Portillo. (Premiere, PGv) Michael Portillo journeys to Lisbon, Portugal.
8.25 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (PGav)
9.20 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Syndrome E. (Malv)
11.45 The Night Manager. (Malsv, R)
1.55 Elizabeth. (PGa, R)
3.40 Ancient Invisible Cities. (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. (PG)
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
8.40 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Return, M) An armoured truck heist is carried out. 9.40 Suits L.A. (M) Ted and Erica try to save Lester’s movie.
10.40 The Agenda Setters.
11.40 St. Denis Medical. (PGa) 12.10 Miniseries: Hatton Garden. (Ml, R) 2.30 To Be Advised. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am The Natural. Continued. (1984, PG) 7.30 Selkie. (2000, PG) 9.10 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 11.10 Gloria Bell. (2018, M) 1.05pm So Damn Easy Going. (2022, M, Swedish) 2.45 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 4.55 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. (2009, PG) 6.35 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 8.30 Michael Collins. (1996, MA15+) 11.00 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 12.50am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 18
4.55 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)
11.00 Prisoner. (MA15+av)
12.10 Illegals. (Malv, R)
2.10 Elizabeth: Into The Storm. (PGa, R)
3.05 Philip: Prince, Husband, Father. (PG, R)
4.00 Ancient Invisible Cities. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Widows’ Peak. Continued. (1994, PG) 6.55 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 8.50 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. (2009, PG) 10.30 Nordic By Nature. (2021, M, Faroese) 11.50 Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 2.15pm The Natural. (1984, PG) 4.45 Walking On Sunshine. (2014, PG) 6.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.30 Michael Clayton. (2007, MA15+) 10.40 Joe Bell. (2020, M) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 The Hunting Party. (M) 9.40 The Irrational. (Mav) Renee seeks Alec’s help.
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WEDNESDAY, March 19
THURSDAY,
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Back Roads. (Final, PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Australia: An Unofficial History. (Mals)
8.40 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Mal)
The juries retire to decide their verdicts.
9.35 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+av)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Blackwater. (MA15+as)
12.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Mn, R)
3.30 Ancient Invisible Cities. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (Ma) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Live At The Chapel: Birds Of Tokyo. (Ml)
11.00 Autopsy USA. (Ma)
12.00 Covert Affairs. (Mv, 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 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 Scrublands. (MA15+lv) 10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
9News Late.
The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
My Way. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
6am Hachi: A
Dog’s Tale. Continued. (2009, PG) 6.40 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.35 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 11.30 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 1.15pm As Needed. (2018, M, Italian) 3.00 Widows’ Peak. (1994, PG) 4.55 The Man Who
March 20
8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (Final, PG) 9.15 Grand Designs Revisited. (R) 10.05 The Role Of A Lifetime. (Final, PGan, R) 10.55 ABC Late News. 11.10 The Business. (R) 11.25 Darby And Joan. (PGa, R) 12.15 Grand Designs. (Ml, R) 1.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG)
8.30 Super Ships: A Revolution At Sea. Looks at how cruise lines launch new liners.
9.35 Boiling Point. (Mal)
10.45 SBS World News Late.
11.15 Breaking Point. (Premiere, MA15+a)
12.05 Blackport. (Mls, R)
2.45 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PGa, 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. (PGav)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG)
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PGa) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
9.45 The Amazing Race. (PG)
11.15 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)
12.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au DEAR Jasminda,
I HAVE a neighbour who parades around his backyard in the nuddy.
He opens his side gate, so I can see him from my kitchen window.
He thinks it’s funny when I tell him I can watch porn on television if I was that way inclined.
What do you suggest I do?
Signed,
Dear Bertha,
WHAT a coincidence.
Bertha.
The day before I received your email, I had a conundrum sent to me from a hard-ofhearing naturist.
He said, "Dear Jasminda, I'm working hard
on body acceptance. I enjoy weeding my garden, tending to my magnolia hedge, and replenishing the birdbath wearing nothing more than my Akubra, steel cap boots, and some SPF 50+. I would never have done this while my wife was still alive, but now she's gone, I feel I can fully embrace the time I have left by soaking up the sun and being one with nature. My problem is, lately I've had this nagging feeling that someone is watching me. Recently I've had it confirmed. Last week, mid-prune, I swivelled around and caught a glimpse of the woman next door peeking through her kitchen curtains at me. I thought it was just a coincidence, but then, a couple of days later, she yelled out something like, 'I watch porn on television when I'm reclined.' I was horrified. I don't know what to do. Am I living next door to a pervert? I just nervously giggled and strategically covered up my remaining dignity with my pruning shears. Thankfully I'd first put the safety latch on. Who knows what injury could have befallen me. How do I
stop this peeping Thomasina?"
What we have here, Bertha, is a simple neighbourly misunderstanding.
Perhaps you could have an overthe-fence conversation.
Explain that you're not used to people running around starkers.
Tell him it's hard concentrating on your role decorating cakes for the CWA when he's cavorting around in his birthday suit.
Maybe you two can come to an arrangement.
In exchange for some freshlybaked scones once a week, your neighbour could agree to set nude gardening hours (a bit like dog offleash hours) between 10 and 11am and provide you with bunches of freshly-cut magnolias.
What do you think, Bertha?
Sounds like a win-win to me.
It may even develop into a blossoming friendship.
Carpe 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.
FREE STUDY
HUB + FACILITIES
Available 5am – Midnight for Registered TUC Gloucester students!
SCAN HERETOFIND OU T M !ERO
Poetry Gardeners gather again
AFTER receiving feedback from the community, NOTA will be sharing the occasional piece of work by local poets.
If you would like to submit a poem for consideration, email media@newsofthearea.com.au.
‘Sandspit – Manning River’ by Anne Andrews
Five plumped-up pelicans sit solidly on a sandspit just off the Manning River Bridge in Taree, One pelican raises a languid wing to test the breeze, its feathers riffle.
The others barely notice, but shuffle along slightly as though a response is necessary.
Right next to them are fifteen seagulls – white bullets punctuating the point.
Like a convocation of tiny priests, they communicate, pontificate, agree and disagree in ripples of movement ever so insubstantial.
The winter sun filters down around them as they wait for their feast, swimming towards them on a transitory tide.
A breeze blows in and dark clouds extinguish their whiteness, or do they simply disappear around the bend chasing warmer climes or shoals of sustenance?
GLOUCESTER Garden Club members returned to their monthly meeting schedule on Wednesday, 26 February after a long holiday break.
Member Peter Hazell said the gardeners were keen to get back into it.
Held in the Uniting Church Hall because of the summer heat, over 60 members and visitors heard of upcoming events, participated in the monthly flower and vegetable competitions, heard from the club’s “green thumb” horticulturalist Mandy Griffis, and from guest speaker Bob Tebbet.
“Bob was representing the Sydney Royal Easter Show’s Central District Exhibit organisers and spoke and showed a PowerPoint presentation of preparations for their annual exhibit and how gardeners, who are in fact mini farmers, could help with future displays,” Peter said.
“Keith Franks thanked
the guest speaker for his interesting and educational address.
“A big thank you to
local member Christine Bolton who spoke on garden members entering the various sections of this
MidCoast Council receives Silver in global destination award
MIDCOAST Council has received second place in the Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards.
Council's submission, ‘The place where the leaves touch the waters, from the mountains to the sea,’ was recognised in the Destination Management category.
It was one of only three Australian destinations to make this world-wide list of the best 100 sustainability stories.
It tells the story of the sustainable tourism initiatives implemented by Council and community over the past five years, recognising the value of our natural and cultural assets and management of visitors to the region.
Mayor Claire Pontin highlighted the significance of making the Green Destinations
Top 100 Story Awards for the first time.
“Council’s destination brand, Barrington Coast, is achieving well-deserved recognition,” she said.
“This award further supports Council’s recent Eco Destination certification and sponsoring of local tourism operators on their own sustainability journey.”
There were six finalists in the Destination Management category, with first place awarded to Slovenia, and third place awarded to Luang Prabang, Laos.
“The Barrington Coast is renowned for its incredible and diverse landscapes from beaches, and rivers to World Heritage national parks,” Mayor Pontin said.
“We have implemented several initiatives to ensure that
visitors to the region can enjoy all that is on offer in a way that is sustainable for the environment as well as the economic future of our region.”
The Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards is an annual competition that has run since 2014.
It celebrates destinations demonstrating social responsibility and inspiring responsible tourism leadership. Council’s award was presented to Tourism Australia at the ITB Berlin Convention on 5 March 2025.
The opportunity to enter the Top 100 Story Awards was made possible through a partnership with Ecotourism Australia and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), as part of the ECO Destination Certification program.
year’s Gloucester Show on March 21 and 22.
“There was a lively show and tell section and gardening problems were aired and perhaps solved, and weeds identified.
“The plant stall operators had a busy morning with a large array of plans donated by members for resale.”
New member John Erskine was provided his badge by membership officer Judy Earle.
The flower competition winner was Pearl Beggs with her tiger lily, Mary Chernov with a moon flower was second and tied third were the Dahlias shown by Christine Bolton and Julie Mackerel.
Leesa Searle with a hand of tomatoes was first in the vegetable competition, Anne Williamson with a plate of macadamia nuts was third and Peter Hazell with a single tomato was third.
The club’s 26 March meeting will be held at the Darawank nursery of Apex Plants, on the way into Tuncurry.
Darawank Nursery has a large array of plants varying from bromeliads, grasses, shrubs, indoor and outdoor plants, trees and orchids.
Celebrating International Women’s Day in Gloucester IN MOTION
THE women of the Gloucester Environment Group celebrated International Women's Day in style on Saturday 8 March.
Not daunted by the inclement weather, 30 women gathered for a delicious lunch at the Avon Valley Inn.
“This important day is marked on this date each year to highlight the need for gender equality,” said the group’s Di Montague.
“While most in the room acknowledged how lucky we are to live in a beautiful area like Gloucester, for many women in our community and around the world, there is need for change.”
After lunch the gathering heard from guest speaker Louise Duff.
Louise, who recently settled in Gloucester, has had a rich and diverse working life both in Australia and overseas.
She is passionate about the outdoors, with a career devoted to biodiversity, rivers and wetlands.
Her talk focused initially on the 'Status of Women Report Card' for 2025, released each year by the Federal Government.
“The report card includes the most recent available date on the social and economic equality issues facing women
and girls in Australia,” the government states.
In her speech, Louise stressed that equality for women has stalled, and in some cases is going backwards.
“One example is the gender pay gap where women need to work an additional forty-four days a year to earn the same as men,” Di said.
“This inspiring speech was followed by a chance for the women in the room to focus on their own lives, using the 'Tree of Life' as a guide.
“To complete the event, delicious cake was enjoyed and all agreed that the day was a positive way for local women to join together in celebration of being women.”
q Guest speaker Bob Tebbet addressing garden club members at their February meeting.
q Council's award submission, ‘The place where the leaves touch the waters, from the mountains to the sea,’ was recognised in the Destination Management category.
q Guest speaker Louise Duff.
q Thirty women gathered for a delicious lunch at the Avon Valley Inn on Saturday.
$157.3 million.”
Home approvals on the decline
AUSTRALIAN Bureau of
Statistics figures on new home approvals indicate that total home approvals fell by eight percent in the Hunter and 34 percent on the Central Coast in 2024 compared to the 2023 calendar year.
“There were a total of 4,808 building approvals across the Hunter in 2024 and 1,052 on the Central Coast,” said Craig Jennion, Housing Industry Australia (HIA) Hunter Executive Director.
“Combined, this is 14 percent weaker than in 2023, and 19 percent lower than the pre-Covid year of 2018.
“Detached house approvals in the Hunter were steady with an increase of eight dwellings or zero percent change in the 2024 calendar year.”
Across the region, Lake Macquarie saw the strongest growth in detached house approvals, up by 35 percent compared to 2023.
This was followed by Maitland (up eight percent), Scone (up seven percent) and Singleton (up six percent.
“Declines were recorded in all other Hunter LGAs with Port Stephens down 52 percent, followed by Newcastle (down 34 percent), Muswellbrook (down 21 percent) and Cessnock (down 20 percent).”
Multi-unit approvals
decreased in the Hunter, falling 19 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.
“Declines were the greatest in Newcastle (down 37 percent), Cessnock (down 33 percent) and Lake Macquarie (down 14 percent).
“Pleasingly growth
occurred in Maitland (plus 29 percent) and Port Stephens (up six percent).”
According to the data, much of the heavy lifting for the residential sector continues to occur in the local government areas of Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Central Coast, Newcastle and Cessnock.
These top five locations for approvals accounted for 87 percent of total approvals.
“Detached homes remained the preference for home buyers, with the Hunter increasing five percent to account for 63.25 percent of total approvals, while on the Central Coast it increased by 16 percent to
New draft LEP awaiting gazettal
FOLLOWING a lengthy community consultation process, MidCoast Council last week endorsed a new draft Local Environmental Plan (LEP).
The draft plan has now been submitted to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for the final stages of approval.
A Local Environmental Plan provides the framework and planning controls that guide development across the MidCoast local government area.
Currently, the MidCoast has three Local Environmental Plans (from the former Council areas) that have different
approaches resulting in an inconsistent planning framework across the local government area.
Having one MidCoast LEP will provide a consistent direction on how development in the LGA will occur, Council’s Director of Liveable Communities, Paul De Szell explained.
“A single LEP will provide more certainty for the community and the development industry and is intended to achieve better planning outcomes,” he said.
Mr De Szell said Council had worked with the community, development industry and NSW Government over the past eight years to identify
Gloucester Lady Bowlers
By Jennifer BURLEY
THE forecast of scattered showers didn't deter the
finalists in the annual Bonnie Hazelwood 4s from fronting up to do battle for the honor of winning this trophy, and
By Peter WILDBLOOD
THERE was not a single Gloucester Veteran Golfer able to play to their handicap in the veterans’ outing at the Gloucester course on Tuesday 4 March.
Ken Kelly did best just
one under for a win on a heavy course that might well have accounted for the low scoring generally.
The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Penny and Brian Mitchell.
The winner was Ken
existing challenges and means to address them.
“During this time, we have developed a Housing Strategy, a Rural Strategy and undertaken a number of zoning reviews to guide our future direction and we have checked in with the community through extensive consultation.
“We have also drawn controls from recently approved Local Environmental Plans across NSW to provide the most up-to-date provisions and have included recent NSW Government reforms.
“All of this has provided the foundation for the draft MidCoast LEP.”
Mr De Szell said the draft plan was the subject
SPORTS
what a battle it was, with the team of Jenny Burley, Paula Standen, Val Pritchard and Suzanne Cross defeating Bev Murray, Kerrie Green, Joan Ridgeway and Jill Everett 18 to 15. Congratulations on all who participated in this yearly event.
Due to the inclement weather no Social bowls were played.
At the end of play the draw was done for the Bonnie Hazelwood Triples, play to start on Wednesday 19 March, the teams and draw is on the notice board, with time of play to revert to 9.30am.
Kelly with his 35 Stableford points.
Ball winners were Arthur Poynting34, Derek Wand 33, Paul Griffiths and Steve Hurworth 32, with the last ball going on a countback to Gary Peters 31.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Peter McIntyre; Paul Griffiths did the job at the 6th and 15th holes.
66 percent of all approvals,” Mr Jennion said.
“The value of approved major renovations and alterations was overall steady in 2024.
“In the Hunter approvals increased by three percent to $314.8 million, while on the Central Coast the value decreased by five percent to
of formal wide community consultation from 29 April until 14 July 2024.
“The consultation process was extensive, with more than 51,000 letters sent to residents, and conversations with over 1700 people in person, and an additional 400 via phone.”
Over 500 submissions were received from the community on various aspects of the draft plan.
Mr De Szell said these submissions were reviewed and as a result some modifications were made to the draft plan.
“All submissions were reviewed and considered in detail. Considering a submission does not automatically mean that a change is made.
“We often receive submissions that are in conflict with each other or with what we are able to do from a planning perspective,
In Dungog, there were 44 house approvals in the 12 months to December 2024, down 14 percent from 51 the previous year.
Two units were approved in that timeframe, up from zero the year before.
In Gloucester, 18 homes were approved in 2024, down one from 19 in 2023. No units were approved in 2024, down two from 2023.
so not everyone will be satisfied with the outcome.
“We understand that some landholders want to be able to have smaller holdings, some want larger – at the end of the day the community has been divided on this issue.
“Ultimately, we have developed a draft plan that is in the best interests of the community across the whole of the MidCoast.”
The three local environmental plans (from the former Council areas) will continue to be used until the MidCoast LEP is gazetted by the State Government, however Council will also be required to consider the draft plan in conjunction with the three local environmental plans when undertaking development assessment.
Find out more on the LEP here https://www. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/LEP
Gloucester Men's Bowls Report
By George WISEMANTEL
CYCLONE Alfred played havoc with bowls during the week with a few diehards turning up for Thursday social which ended in a bonding session but as the afternoon progressed both the weather and conversation deteriorated therefore bowls was cancelled and the same happened for Saturday morning social bowls
The number seven pennants were also
cancelled but the number three sides travelled to Old Bar and lost two rinks but narrowly won the master board 64-63 for a 8-2 victory which keeps them in second place to the strong Tuncurry Beach leaders. Both Gloucester sides are at home for Saturday 15 March games with the number three sides taking on Taree Leagues and the number seven players competing against Harrington B sides
The final of the Valley Motors sponsored men's fours championship were contested on Sunday when Kevin Everett, Ron Jones
(sub for Neville Atkins) , Steven Higgins, Mike Sheely took on Col Hebblewhite, Adam Clements, Bruce Wilson, Kevin Baker. Col's team jumped away to a 7-0 lead and consolidated being up 13-2 after five ends and was never troubled after that to cruise to a 26-17 victory to become the Valley Motors men's fours champions for 2024/2025 The draw has been completed for the Betta Flooring Electrical men's triples championship commencing on Sunday 23 March so check the board for your game.
Gloucester Rifle Club
By Peter PSALTIS
SUNDAY Target Shoot
2 March 2025
In a mild cross-wind on Sunday March 2, at 700 yards in free-class fullbore Stuart Kerr ripped a sizzling 102.3, chased hard by visitor Kat Hamilton on a ripping 99. In 25 metre rimfire
Lance May ripped a sizzling possible 250, chased hard by Laurie Smith and Doug Clarke on fine scores of 243 and 227. Next shoot will be on Sunday 16 March, with fullbore at 300 metres from 8.30am and 50 metre rimfire from 11am. Visitors to the rifle club are welcome on shoot days, and enquiries
regarding club activities and firearms licensing may be made to Steve Pennicuik on 0427059717. The next Firearms Licensing Course is scheduled for Saturday 12 April 2025 – with early prior bookings with Steve being essential.
q Winners.
Magic Myrelle
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE clouds were threatening for the small group who turned up for the Opening Day for the Gloucester Golf Ladies on Wednesday 5 March, for an Individual Stableford.
The testing conditions of squally showers dampened the scores with Myrelle Fraser, on 32 points, managing to win the day. Balls went to Carolyn Davies on, 29, and Elaine Murray 26. This pair also took out the Nearest-to-the Pin prizes, with Elaine winning on the 4th and 13th holes and Carolyn on the 6th 15th holes.
On Wednesday 12 March the Gloucester Golf Ladies will play a Four Ball Aggregate Stableford and the following week they play the 1st Monthly Medal of the season as an Individual Stableford.
Myrelle Fraser.