Gloucester District News Of The Area 12 NOVEMBER 2025
GLOUCESTER DISTRICT
Study Hub opening 2025 Wednesday, 12 November
By Wendy BUSWELL
A FUNDRAISING concert has been organised for Gloucester woman Chloe Haynes, following a recent breast cancer diagnosis.
Chloe is a former Captain of Gloucester High School and a keen drama student who played a major role in the school’s 2013 production of Hairspray. In response to her diagnosis, former Gloucester High peers have organised a fundraiser on 15 November at the Gloucester Golf Club, to assist Chloe in covering the expenses related to her cancer treatment.
Marilyn SANDERSON 0419 627 663 marilyn@newsofthearea.com.au
Kim TEOH 0491 008 417 teoh@newsofthearea.com.au
By John WATTS
Airfield
FOR the first time in 25 years Gloucester Airfield was the venue for the first solo flight by a trainee pilot when 17-year-old Blake Walker recently took to the sky, watched by his nervous mum, and his instructor Garry King.
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his first solo flight.
“But, as soon as I got in the air, I loved it – it was the best feeling ever,” he said.
alone,” said Blake’s mum, Donelle Walker.
“However, I was so proud of what he had achieved.
“I found it frightening when Blake drove off in a car by himself for the first time, but I was terrified watching him take off all
Blake, who will be Gloucester High School’s captain next year with plans to study civil engineering after finishing high school, has been learning to fly since early 2024.
“He was so cool and calm, and he took it all in his stride.”
Blake explains that he was a little nervous when told that it was time for
School alumni rally for Chloe
FROM Page 1
“Cancer treatment incurs significant costs,” explained Scott Davis, one of the event organisers.
“Chloe is currently unable to work, and we aim to provide her with the necessary support to achieve the best possible outcome.”
The concert will feature a diverse lineup of talented artists, including recording artist Maddy Andrews, siblings Will and Holly Bowden, as well as Alex and James Bratfield.
Alumni from Gloucester High musicals, such as Emme Hoggett, AJ
McIntosh, Anneka Hooke, Ethan Bird, and Chloe's sister, Holly Weismantel, will also perform.
Oihanu ReynoldsFaara will be traveling from Norfolk Island specifically for this event.
Local band In Like Flynn will conclude the evening's entertainment
with a performance that is sure to get everyone on their feet.
The event organisers have enlisted the services of local auctioneer Peter Markey, who will auction items donated to support the cause.
“The support from the local community has been
“I hope to get my licence by the end of the year.”
On 15 November the Gloucester Aero Club will host its annual airshow at the airfield.
Once again, the airshow will feature pilots from the world-renowned Paul Bennet Airshows for a meet and greet and a practice.
The airshow will be open to all members of the public.
“Come and meet pilots and modellers from all over New South Wales and see their aircraft up close and personal,” said organiser Andy Edwards.
“One of the models will be an award-winning quarter size replica of ‘the Wright Flyer’, which was the plane flown by the Wright Brothers at Kittyhawk in 1903.
“We are expecting planes from all over NSW and a few parachutists may drop in.
“A barbeque lunch will be available from 11.30am with proceeds from sales going towards tuition fees for young trainee pilots such as Blake.
“Naturally the event is weather dependent.”
Gloucester Aero Club, located on the Maslen dairy just off Jack’s Rd, with over 70 members, now offers flying lessons from local experienced instructor Garry King.
outstanding,” remarked Scott.
“We hope to see the golf club filled with individuals demonstrating their support for Chloe.”
Tickets remain available for purchase at https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1480817, or they may be purchased at the door.
The event begins at 7pm.
q Blake being congratulated by instructor Garry King. Photo: supplied.
Resources for all at the library
SAFETY NET
food relief.
A key component in being able to provide that support was the funding BWNG received from the Salvation Army.
Now, that program is under threat.
The Salvation Army (TSA) has recently been informed that they will not receive the same level of funding from the Federal Government as in previous years.
Funding for BWNG ceased in September 2025.
“These cuts will have a very real and immediate impact,” said BWNG CEO Anna Burley.
“Every week, we see local families, older residents, and individuals connecting with the program.
“Without the Safety Net Program, the most vulnerable in our community will face increased hardship.”
As a result of recent changes, the scope of BWNG’s Safety Net Program has been adjusted.
“Unfortunately, we are no longer able to offer online grocery shopping, fuel cards, or pharmacy relief,” BWNG said in a statement.
“We will continue operating our food pantry, which will provide donated goods to support community members in urgent need.
“Please note that the pantry is no longer intended for ongoing or regular assistance, but rather as short-term relief for those experiencing a crisis.”
Electricity assistance through the Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) program will remain available, along with information and referrals to other relevant support services.
BWNG is “actively exploring all possible options” to continue the Safety Net Program in its current form.
The organisation has started a petition to the House of Representatives asking them to:
• Ensure continuity
of support for grassroots community organisations providing essential services in rural and regional communities; and
By Marilyn SANDERSON
THE Gloucester Library is doing its bit to help alleviate cost-of-living pressures, offering a diverse range of free information and entertainment resources.
While libraries historically have been hubs of learning, today’s libraries provide so much more.
In addition to books, DVDs, daily newspapers and information provided by many organisations including MidCoast Council, there is a wealth of free resources available online through the library portal.
Gloucester’s library even has a seed library to which people are invited to contribute.
Kathy Devereaux, one of
Gloucester’s librarians, told NOTA, “Spydus, the recently installed library management system, will enhance members’ experience.”
According to MidCoast Libraries, Spydus is “designed to make your library experience simpler and more intuitive”.
“You’ll enjoy improved searching, better access to your account and digital resources,” Council said in a statement.
The library’s digital resources cater for a range of ages and interests.
Examples include ABC Kids, which provides educational games for young children, while Nat Geo Kids, catering for six- to fourteenyear-olds, provides access to magazines and books
covering science and the natural environment.
Bored of Studies is a site where students studying for the HSC help each other navigate assessment topics.
Seniors interested in family history can find a wealth of information online and access ancestry sites.
For those without a computer, four are available for use at Gloucester Library.
The library also offers a range of events for both kids and adults.
Preschoolers and their carers are invited to attend Preschool Storytime from 10.30-11.00am on Mondays during school term.
Joshua Gilbert, a Worimi man, farmer and academic focused on sustainable agriculture will be the featured author at Gloucester Library on Thursday 13 November from 10:30am.
The petition is available for community members to sign at:
• BWNG – 88 King Street Gloucester
• The Visitor Information Centre
• Consider reinstating or redirecting Commonwealth funding to sustain BWNG’s community programs and prevent service loss for vulnerable residents.
• The Common
• Revive Pharmacy
For local people experiencing financial hardship, current providers who have received Emergency Relief funding for our area are:
• Mission Australia
• Blue Sky Community Services Ltd
• Kempsey Neighbourhood Centre Incorporated
• St Vincent de Paul Society NSW
• The Salvation Army.
BWNG is gratefully accepting donations of new, unwrapped gifts to help local families doing it tough this Christmas.
Please drop your donated gifts to 88 King St, Gloucester before 12/12/2025.
q Librarian Marion Corbett.
q Connections Program Officer Amber Galvin and BWNG CEO Anna Burley.
History discovered under their feet
By John WATTS
THE YEAR 1932 was one of the most momentous in the history of modern Australia.
It was the year that saw the controversial opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the birth of the ABC, the death of Phar Lap, the dismissal of NSW Premier Jack Lang by the Governor, the start of cricket’s bodyline series, and the year that the Great Depression hit Australia with a vengeance.
It was also the year that Roslyn and Peter McIntyre’s home in Tyrell Street, Gloucester was built.
Roslyn and Peter were recently reminded of some of the events of 1932 when they chanced upon a copy of the Sydney Morning Herald dated 14 July that year.
From their own research Roslyn and Peter knew that the plans for their house had been approved by Gloucester Shire Council in 1932, and the discovery
of the newspaper confirmed its building date.
“The house was built for Gloucester Council Chairman, Archibald Joseph White,” said Roslyn.
“The newspaper was found under some old lino in the bathroom when it was removed during a recent renovation.
“There are some very interesting things in the paper, and some of the news is the same as today, such as cyclist killed, someone murdered and all the rest of it, although there are some comments in a legal report that you would never publish today.
“There are ads by Anthony Horderns, David Jones, Minties and Sao biscuits.”
The paper appears to be a special Newcastle edition and Gloucester was not forgotten where it was reported that:
“Great interest is being taken in the football matches for the Harry Cross Cup, the third of which was played on Saturday at
Gloucester Park.
“A special train was chartered from Wingham for the match.
“After a hard game Gloucester remained in possession of the cup.”
In an indication that the more things change, the more they remain the same, the paper contained one interesting letter to the editor.
“High tariff barriers in force in most countries of the world constitute one of the fundamental causes of world depression,” wrote W Bueback.
“Removal of tariff barriers is first consideration America, with her tariff, (which) has an immense army of unemployed, and finds her world trade failing, and is the greatest loser through her policy, and will probably learn that you cannot sell if you cannot buy.”
Roslyn and Peter have placed a 2025 edition of the Sydney Morning Herald under the new flooring.
Postie Dash raises key funds for kids
By Sis HIGGINS
NEARLY 100 riders set off on Sunday 2 November for the 12th annual Variety Postie Bike Dash.
The six-day charity ride aims to raise $400,000 to help regional children who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability.
The riders started from
Nabiac Public School and traveled through some of regional NSW’s most scenic towns before returning to the finish line at the Nabiac Motorcycle Museum on Friday 7 November.
Mounted on their Honda CT110, CT110X and NBC110 postie bikes, participants take on the challenge not just for the adventure, but to
change young lives along the way.
More than $24,000 in community grants was distributed to rural schools and community groups during the ride.
The funding will provide essential items such as inclusive playground equipment, musical instruments and sports kits.
“Saving local lives” is the objective of the Rotary Men’s Health Education Rural Van (mherv) which thanks to the Rotary (or other) Club of Gloucester is coming to our local area.
The mherv Project has been operating for over 6 years travelling regional and rural NSW offering free health checkups to people who haven’t seen the inside of a doctor’s room since they don’t remember when! In that time, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels may have reached seriously high levels and there are no symptoms… until it’s too late and a heart attack or stroke strikes!
The program is focussed on men because unlike the womenfolk, they are not good at caring for their own health!... But nobody is turned away.
The service is offered in a relaxed, confidential and informal setting. The mherv Registered nurse conducts the tests and discusses any health concerns seated in the privacy of the van.
mherv screenings have saved many lives and improved health outcomes for many men and women throughout NSW.
You’re invited to take the opportunity to have a quick,free health check. Just ten minutes invested with mhervcan save your life or the life of someone you love.
Tony Warner, the NSW/ ACT CEO of Variety – the Children’s Charity, said the event is about far more than the ride itself.
“The Postie Bike Dash is a journey of connection and generosity.
“It brings together people who share our vision – to help all kids reach their full potential, no matter their
background or ability.
“The riders’ camaraderie and commitment to their incredible fundraising efforts are what make this event such a success year after year.”
Funds raised will support 750 therapy sessions, 8700 “Just Like You” workshops, and 14 titanium framed wheelchairs built for rugged regional conditions.
Our Rotary team this year are proudly supporting DV Safe Phone. This is a great chance for mherv to further support the community in a meaningful way. All that’s required is for people to drop their used phones into the box when mherv is in town. Rotary will collect them at the end of the tour and send them to DV Safe Phone for refurbishment and distribution. Refurbished phones are then provided to Women’s Shelters and similar organisations.
Your old phone could save a life. DV Safe Phone are working toward a future where domestic violence victims are empowered to live safe, connected lives through sustainable technology solutions. Since 2020, DV Phone box has collected, repaired and distributed free mobile phones to domestic violence (DV) victims through their nationwide network of more than 500 agencies partners (DV agencies, police stations, hospitals and safe houses). With your support, they are transforming lives, promoting sustainability, and uniting communities for real change. This is an important way to support the “Say No to Domestic and Family Violence” program.
The 2025 route included Wingham, North Haven, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo, Nambucca Heads, Bowraville, Smithtown, Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie. Sponsored by Tamex Transport and Australia Post, the Postie Bike Dash is set to continue to grow as one of Variety’s most loved events.
q Roslyn McIntyre catching up on the news from 1932.
q Posties set off from the starting line at Nabiac. Photo: supplied.
q Nabiac Public School gets the first cheque of the ride. Photo: supplied.
Assistance needed to rebuild fences
By Sis HIGGINS
BLAZEAID is calling for volunteers to lend a hand rebuilding fences in communities still recovering from the devastating floods that hit the Mid North Coast earlier this year.
A dedicated team is now based at Nabiac, working hard to restore fencing on local farms between Bulahdelah and Kempsey.
BlazeAid Coordinator Lisa Abdoo said anyone can get involved, even without prior experience.
“They just learn on the fence line,” Ms Abdoo said.
Most of the damaged fence lines have been cleared, and the focus has now shifted to rebuilding.
“They’re clearing the debris off the fences and then helping rebuild or restore them if they can.
“We supply all of the equipment.”
The volunteer camp will remain open through to March 2026, with both live-in and day volunteers
welcome from anywhere on the Mid North Coast.
“The football and soccer season starts on 1 March next year, so we’ll be here right through to then,” Ms Abdoo said.
“Some of our volunteers live in the camp with us, but some are locals who come in the morning and go home in the afternoon.
“They can come in here (the Nabiac camp) for breakfast, make their sandwiches, and take lunch out with them in eskies.
“It’s a fabulous community, and they’re very appreciative of BlazeAid’s help.
“If you can spare a day, a week, whatever - the crew would be so very grateful, not to mention the farmers you’re helping.”
Founded in 2009 after Victoria’s Black Saturday bushfires, BlazeAid has since helped communities across Australia rebuild after fires, floods, cyclones and storms.
To volunteer, contact Lisa Abdoo on 0487 216 079.
Free grain and bait on offer
LANDHOLDERS across NSW are being encouraged to take advantage of $850,000
worth of free grain and bait on offer as part of a statewide crackdown on feral pigs.
The funding is part of the Government’s Feral Pig and Pest Program with funding
from the State’s more than $1 billion biosecurity budget. It is the third year the
Government has provided free grain and bait to landholders as part of the program.
The cost to farmers of grain for feral pig trapping
and baiting can be significant, but landholders in NSW can now receive these supplies for free while supplies last.
Local Land Services Feral Pig Coordinator Bec Gray said, “When it comes to feral pigs and pest animal control, unfortunately there’s no silver bullet, which is why we need to support the use of multiple control methods, such as baiting, trapping and shooting.
“Feral pigs don’t respect fences or boundaries.
“They move across landscapes and cause widespread damage.
“That’s why we’re encouraging landholders to team up, plan strategically and use the free bait and grain available across all 11 Local Land Services regions.
“This isn’t just about individual properties, it’s about community-wide action.
“The more unified the response, the greater the success.”
Landholders interested in accessing free grain and bait and seeking tailored advice on pest control options can contact their closest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.
q Flooded farms in need of fencing volunteers.
q The cost to farmers of grain for feral pig trapping and baiting can be significant. Photo: supplied.
By Jennifer DUDLEYNICHOLSON, AAP
ENERGY retailers say they've been blindsided by reforms promising free electricity to hundreds of thousands of Australians during peak solar power hours.
The Solar Sharer program,
announced by the federal government last Tuesday, would give consumers free access to electricity for three hours each day as part of the default offer available.
Households in NSW, southeast Queensland and South Australia will qualify to access the program from
July 2026, with negotiations under way to extend it to other states in 2027.
But a group representing electricity retailers has criticised the government's lack of consultation about the change.
The Solar Sharer program will be introduced to the
Default Market Offer, which acts as a minimum standard for plans and prices offered by electricity retailers.
Free electricity will be provided during the middle of the day when solar power generation peaks and will deliver benefits across the network.
"People who are able to move electricity use into the zero-cost power period will benefit directly, whether they
By Farid FARID, AAP
PESKY plastic tags on loaves of bread, tiny soy sauce fish bottles and detachable bottle tops are all being binned by a state government battling a mounting rubbish crisis.
The ambitious clean-up is part of an expanded ban by NSW coinciding with the start of National Recycling Week.
The NSW Plastic Plan 2.0, will see the winding down of
plastic bread tags and pizza box savers from late 2027 and non-compostable plastic fruit and vegetable stickers by 2030.
It will also require businesses to introduce tethered lids, meaning the cap or lid on a plastic bottle must remain attached to the bottle itself, even after it is opened, by 2030. Without action, Sydney could run out of landfill space
by 2030 with predictions there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish by 2050.
Plastic makes up around 74 percent of litter in NSW waterways with less than 16 per cent of plastic waste recycled.
"Microplastics are entering our bodies and plastic is polluting our environment and oceans, killing our wildlife,"
Environment Minister Penny
Sharpe said on Sunday.
"This plan moves NSW another step closer to phasing out these problematic items."
The move puts NSW in line with other states to tackle the 800,000 tonnes of plastic waste it generates each year.
It will also cut out helium balloons in 2026, plastic bags with handles - regardless of thickness by 2027 and filters on washing machines
have solar panels or not and whether they own or rent," Energy Minister Chris Bowen said.
"The more people take up the offer and move their use, the greater the system benefits that lower costs for all electricity users will be."
Households would need to have a smart meter installed to access the offer but could use it to power air conditioners, swimming pool cleaners, electric cars or home batteries, he said.
Analysis from the federal energy department showed a single-person household that could move 10 per cent of energy use to the three-hour period could save nine per cent on bills.
Retailers including AGL, OVO and Red Energy offer free access to electricity during specified hours, and an AGL spokesperson said it would work with the government on the detailed design of the proposed reform policy.
But the announcement came as a surprise to many retailers, even though the firms had spent five months in talks with the government on other market reforms.
"We are disappointed that the government didn't consult with us ahead of time in announcing this decision," Australian Energy Council chief executive Louisa Kinnear said.
by 2028 to combat a prolific source of microplastics.
Sushi lovers will have to adapt by 2030 with condiment containers such as soy sauce fish bottles being phased out and takeaway food containers will have to be redesigned to be recycled.
NSW began tackling problematic plastics in 2022 by phasing out items such as lightweight plastic bags, single-use cutlery, bowls,
"This lack of consultation risks damaging industry confidence as well as creating the potential for unintended consequences."
Nationals senator Matt Canavan, a key proponent of his party's recent decision to ditch net-zero emissions targets, questioned whether consumers would be better off under the Solar Sharer plan or whether retailers would make people pay more at other parts of the day.
The proposed changes will be overseen by the Australian Energy Regulator and chair Clare Savage said the organisation would launch public consultation on the reforms and ensure fair, consistent pricing from providers.
"By establishing the proposal as part of the (Default Market Offer), more customers will have access to this type of offer but with the added confidence that they are not being overcharged outside the free power period," she said.
Organisations including Solar Citizens, Rewiring Australia and the Clean Energy Council welcomed the changes, with council chief executive Jackie Trad saying they would help energy users shift demand into cheaper periods and avoid high evening prices.
plates, stirrers and straws. The Boomerang Alliance, representing more than 55 environmental groups, welcomed the ambitious proposal saying the most populous state had leapfrogged others in reducing plastic pollution.
South Australia was the first state in 2021 to prohibit single-use plastics followed by Queensland and the ACT.
q Chris Bowen says you don't have to have solar panels on your roof to reap the benefits. Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY RETURN TO PARADISE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
This local Death in Paradise spin-off faced serious competition at the Logie Awards this year, but came out ahead of Bump, The Newsreader and The Twelve to win Most Outstanding Drama Series, so detective Mackenzie Clarke (Anna Samson, pictured) and co. must be doing something right. Despite plans to be back in the UK, Mack is reluctantly still in Dolphin Cove, where there’s plenty of seemingly impossible murder cases to solve, starting with the discovery of a poisoned scientist on a shark research facility’s runaway boat.
FRIDAY, November 14
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross visits a peony farm.
8.30 Maigret. (Mv) Maigret tries to anticipate the bank robbers’ next move, while closing in on Honore’s killers.
9.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.
9.55 Crime Night! (PG, R) Hosted by Julia Zemiro.
10.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.10 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.00 Robot
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Storms From Above. (PG)
TUESDAY
JAMIE DURIE’S FUTURE HOUSE
NBN, 8.30pm
Landscaper-turned-TV-host Jamie Durie (pictured) puts his money where his mouth is in this new series that aims to tackle Australia’s housing crisis with savvy design, innovative building methods and environmental impact front of mind. Having recently completed the decade-long process of constructing an off-grid masterpiece in Pittwater, NSW, Durie promised partner Ameka that he was “done building”, but she laughed, “I know better”. Durie sets out to 3D-print a house on their Byron Bay farm in just three months, while also following three families facing council red tape, financial hurdles and wild weather in the process of fasttracking their own revolutionary sustainable homes.
8.30 Nick Knowles Into Death Valley. (PG, R) Presented by Nick Knowles.
9.25 The Scottish Island That Won The Lottery. (PG, R)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Sisi. (MA15+as, R)
11.45 Tokyo Vice. (MA15+av, R)
1.55 Tutankhamun. (PG, R)
3.00 Craft It Yourself. (PG, R)
3.55 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY VIGIL
SBS, 9.25pm
This exceptional British crime drama’s haunting theme song – Danish singersongwriter Agnes Obel’s Fuel to the – perfectly sets the scene for the nerve-
events that follow. Season two shifts the show’s setting from the claustrophobic confines of a submarine to the skies above, with a focus on deadly drones. When a British Air Force weapons test goes disastrously wrong and kills seven military personnel, detective Amy Silva (Suranne Jones, pictured) is called in to investigate. With the help of her similarly savvy partner Kirsten (Rose Leslie), Silva must determine if the shocking incident was the result of an unfortunate malfunction or something sinister.
6.00 NBN News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016, Mav, R) An assassin is forced out of hiding when one of his old allies uncovers information about his past. Matt Damon, Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander. 11.00 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R) A driver gets sleepy and goes bush.
11.30 GetOn Extra.
12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG, R)
1.00 In Plain Sight. (Madv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: The Arid Heart. (PG)
8.40 MOVIE: Force Of Nature: The Dry 2. (2024, Mal) A woman goes missing during a hiking retreat. Eric Bana, Anna Torv.
11.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Big Brother Australia. (Malns) Hosted by Mel Tracina. 8.40 The Kick That United The Nation. (PGal) Looks at Australia’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup in 2005, with interviews from the players, coaches and fans. 10.10 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.35 10 News+. (R) 11.35 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30
6.00
SATURDAY, November 15
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.05 Short History Of The English Garden. (R) 10.00 Beyond The Beaten Path. (PGaw, R) 10.55 Shepherdess. (PGl, R) 11.55 WorldWatch. 12.55 Soccer. Australian C’ship. Rnd 6. Avondale FC v Preston Lions FC. 3.00 Soccer. Australian C’ship. Rnd 6. Wollongong Wolves v Marconi Stallions FC. 5.30 The Irish Civil War. (PGav, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
6.25 I Was Actually There: Fairlie Arrow Abduction Hoax. (PGs, R) Looks at the ‘abduction’ of a singer.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Return To Paradise. (Return, PGav)
she knew.
10.00 The Forsytes. (PG, R) Looks at the lives of a wealthy late Victorian family. 10.55 Bergerac. (Mv, R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.50 Late Programs.
7.30 A Royal Guide To... (Return)
8.25 A Year At Kylemore Abbey. (PG)
9.25 1967: Summer Of Love. (PGads, R)
10.20 Reckless. (Mdls, R)
11.25 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mv, R)
2.00 Willie Nelson: Life & Songs Of An American Outlaw. (PGad, R)
12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Sandown 500. Day 1. Highlights.
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Black Adam. (2022, Mav, R) Dwayne Johnson. 10.00 MOVIE: Blue Beetle. (2023, Mav) Xolo Maridueña. 12.20 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (Ms, R)
1.10 Cybershack. (PG, 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)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) The team helps a couple in Maroubra. 8.40 Ambulance UK. (Ml, R) Paramedics respond to calls regarding an attempted suicide and an 81-year-old who has fallen off his mobility scooter. 9.55 Harry And Meghan: The Rise And Fall. (PGa) Looks at the story of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. 10.55 FBI. (Mv, R) 11.55 The Kick That United The Nation. (PGal, R) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.25 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 9.25 The Movie Show. 10.00
SUNDAY, November 16
And Beyond… (PG, R) 3.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.10 The Role Of A Lifetime. (Final, PGan, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG)
8.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG) Heat three features an array of unique talent.
8.50 The Forsytes. (PG) Jolyon makes a life-changing discovery.
9.45 Return To Paradise. (PGav, R)
A scientist is found dead on a runaway boat.
10.40 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)
11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (Final, PG, R)
3.25 The Art Of Money. (MA15+l, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 8.15 Crongton. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.05 Speechless. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 For The Love Of Dogs: India. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gold Stars: The Story Of FIFA World Cups. 4.10 Motor Racing. World Rally-Raid C’ship. Rallye Du Maroc. H’lights. 4.40 Going Places. (R) 5.10 The Weedy One. (PGa, R) 5.20 Bonsai. (R) 5.30 Hitler-Stalin: A Secret Relationship. (PGavw, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 JFK: One Day In America: Revenge. (M)
8.25 Secret Letters Of Mary, Queen Of Scots. Codebreakers decipher letters written by Mary, Queen of Scots.
9.35 Karnak: The Largest Temple In The World. (R)
10.35 Odysseus Returns. (PG, R)
11.35 Women Who Rock. (Ml, R)
3.45 Craft It Yourself. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 APAC Weekly.
Vs Goliath. (2020, PG) 10.05 A Thousand Lines. (2022, M, German) 11.45 The Good, The Bad Sun Children. (2020, Bonneville. (2006, PG) 6.30 On 8.30 One Life. (2023, PG) The
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
8.55 Lip Reading The Royals. (Ma) Takes a look at pivotal moments of drama, tension and humour in recent British Royal history. 10.25 The Day Diana Died. (PGa) 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Sandown 500. Day 2. Highlights.
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning Programs. 11.00
Ice Hockey. NHL. Carolina Hurricanes v Vancouver Canucks. 1.50pm Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 8 Hours of Bahrain. H’lights. 3.00 Basketball. WNBL. University of Canberra Capitals v Sydney. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: The Nut Farm. (2024, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies. (2014, M) 10.20 Late Programs. Morning Programs. MOVIE: The Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester City v Liverpool. Replay. 3.00 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Young 5.30
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Golden Bachelor. (Final, PGa) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
MONDAY, November 17
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Knee High Spies. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Batwheels.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Bill Bailey’s Vietnam Adventure. (PG) 8.30 American Prince: JFK Jr. (PG) 9.20 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (M)
10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 The Man Who Died. (Return, MA15+a)
11.35 A Criminal Affair. (MA15+s, R) 1.15 Being Beethoven. (PGa, R) 2.25 Craft It Yourself. (R) 3.20 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGs)
7.30 Working Class Man. (Madl) Looks at rocker Jimmy Barnes’s hit book Working Class Man and the next chapter in his life.
9.55 The Rookie. (Mav) A familiar face returns hoping to prove himself.
11.00 S.W.A.T. (Mv) The team faces an extremist cell.
12.00 Autopsy USA: Luke Perry. (Ma, R)
1.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (MA15+s)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Sun
Children. Continued. (2020, PG, Farsi) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.15 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 10.00 Jack Mimoun And The Secrets Of Val Verde. (2022, M, French) Noon An Almost Perfect Town. (2016, M, Italian) 1.50 On Golden Pond. (1981, PG) 3.50 Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PG) 5.40 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 7.30 Resistance. (2020, M) 9.45 The Conformist. (1970, MA15+, Italian) 11.50 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, November 18
(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PGl)
8.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
9.35 Australia: An Unofficial History. (Ml, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Families Like Ours. (Premiere, Mal)
12.10 Carmen Curlers. (Mas, R)
2.15 Being Beethoven. (PGa, R) 3.20 Craft It Yourself. (PG, R)
4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 8.00 Wicked: One Wonderful Night. From the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, California. 10.00 Murder In A Small Town. (Mav) The team searches for two kidnapping victims.
11.00 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv) 12.00 MOVIE: Paralysed By Danger. (2021, Mav, 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 Travel Guides. (PGln, R) 8.40 MOVIE: Crocodile Dundee. (1986, Mlsv, R) 10.40 9News Late. 11.10 The Equalizer. (Mv)
12.00 Transplant. (MA15+m, R) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current
MOVIES (32)
6am Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PG) 7.55 The Movie Show. 8.30 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 10.20 Resistance. (2020, M) 12.30pm One Night In Miami… (2020, M) 2.40 The Movie Show. 3.15 One Life. (2023, PG) 5.20 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 7.30 Paradise Road. (1997, M) 9.35 Doppelganger. (2023, MA15+, Polish) 11.45 Late Programs. 5.50am Mary Shelley. (2017, PG)
Start your day with coffee and brekky from 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, and great hospitality all day. Open Tuesday to Sunday for good food, drinks, functions and live music. And the place to stay for work or holiday.
8.30 Reckless. 9.30 Scotland’s Poshest Train: Alan Cumming. (R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 I Am Scrooge. (Mal)
11.55 Headhunters. (MA15+lsv, R)
2.30 Being Beethoven. (PG, R)
3.35 Craft It Yourself. (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. (Final)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at the world of cricket and catch up with the stars.
9.30 Ashes Preview Show. A preview of The Ashes series.
10.00 House Of Wellness. (PG)
11.00 Chicago Fire. (Mav)
12.00 MOVIE: Secrets Of A Marine’s Wife. (2021, Mav, 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 Budget Battlers. (PG)
8.40 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mdls, R)
9.40 9News Late. 10.10 Parole. (MA15+a) 11.30 Resident Alien. (Mav) 12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Cybershack. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Mary
Shelley. Continued. (2017, PG) 8.00 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 10.00 Paradise Road. (1997, M) 12.05pm The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 2.10 The Grass Harp. (1995, PG) 4.10 Dean Spanley. (2008, PG) 6.05 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 7.50 Haywire. (2011, M) 9.30 Rogue Agent. (2022, M) 11.40 Annette. (2021, MA15+) 2.10am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, November 20
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 When The War Is Over. (PG, R) 10.30 The Piano UK. (PG, R) 11.30 Crime Night! (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Mav, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.00 QI.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG) 9.00 Long Lost Family. Kate Brown embarks on a double search. 9.45 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 10.35 ABC Late News.
The Business. (R) 11.10 The Art Of. (Ml, R) 11.40 Grand Designs Revisited. (PG, R)
8.25 From That Small Island: The Irish Story. (PG)
9.25 Vigil. (Return, Mav)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Ridley Road. (Mav)
1.10 Exterior Night. (MA15+v, R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
2.35 Insight. 3.35 News. 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 Beach Volleyball. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session. 11.30 Homicide: Life On The Street. 1.20am Conversations. 2.00 Somewhere Boy. 3.00 WorldWatch.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Three Musketeers. Continued. (1973, PG) 6.15 The Grass Harp. (1995, PG) 8.15 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 10.00 Rogue Agent. (2022, M) 12.05pm Haywire. (2011, M) 1.45 Mary Shelley. (2017, PG) 3.55 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 5.30 The Ploughman’s Lunch. (1983, PG) 7.30 The Client. (1994, M) 9.45 Spy Game. (2001, M) 12.05am Marmalade. (2024, M) 2.00 Late Programs.
(64)
6.00
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Patrol. (Return, PG) Follows New Zealand border officials.
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R) Documents the work of the highway patrol.
8.30 Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story. (Madl, R) The story of entrepreneur Michael Gudinski who revolutionised the Australian music industry.
11.00 Gatecrashers.
12.00 The Front Bar. (Ml, R)
1.00 Life. (Malsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7MATE (64)
DRAMA
DRAMA
Public Notices
DUNGOG STORE CATTLE SALE Friday 14th November @ 11:30am Dungog Saleyards
Consisting of the following local cattle:
D Mackay - 14 Angus Steers 18mths
P & L Blundell – 12 Angus Steers 10mths
Chumbra Angus – 15 Angus Steers 9mths
D Porter – 8 Angus Steers 8-10mths
D Lewis – 5 Angus heifers 15-20mths
K Flannery – 10 Angus/Devon heifers 20mths
J & L Hopwood- 4 Angus/Char heifers 10mths
Quells – 5 Angus Cows PTIC
K Flannery – 2 Angus X C&C’s
K & J Sullivan – 3 Angus C&C’s
D Lewis – 7 Angus C&C’s
Stroud Hill Invest – 8 Crossbred C&C’s
D Lewis – 2 Angus Cows NSM
Further 50 mixed store cattle to be drafted Further entries invited
Dungog Ph
A/h Kel Sullivan 0427 921 704 or Paddy Dillon 0428 921
MALTESE Shih Tzu puppy, 1 girl Available from 16th Nov. Located in Port Stephens. BIN# B000616552. Call or text 0474 378 452
COKE bottles & cans x 14, some bottles full 2000 Olympic can, 1989 Ghost Busters can, 1987 America Cup bottle & more. $40. 0447 076 485
CLOTHES, 000 - size 8, boys / girls clothing $20 per box. Some new, great cond. Pick up from Clarence Town. 0432 050 619 NEW Red Lumus ankle water proof boots size 38 $25pr. 0434 521 457
SWIMMING pool magnesium salt 25kg bag $90. Ph 0477 587 881 F121125 newsofthearea.com.au CLASSIFIEDS 02 4981 8882
CLASSIFIEDS 02 4981 8882
PIANOLA and stool in GC, over 50 player rolls $1800 ono 0498 176 876 COFFEE table, lovely walnut with 3 drawers $100 ono 0448 521 466
COLLECTERS editions empty Chivas Salute Whisky porcelain flagons with velvet covers and boxes. Make an offer. 4981 2713
DOUBLE Pine Bed w/good mattress. $100 4982 0063
SUZUKI
News Of The Area OPINION
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
PUZZLES
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I've been invited to the staff Christmas party but the people going are hard partiers and I always end up being the designated driver.
I'm aware there's an expectation for me to remain under-the-limit to ferry all the guests home.
I'm thinking I might not go for this reason.
Harriet L.
Dear Harriet,
Christmas parties are fraught at the best of times, but most people get through them by knowing that
if they have a few strong drinks at the start of the night, they can probably cope with Jules from accounts turning into a messy drunk and reciting everyone's mental health leave accruals, or Garry the sales manager who (after downing a six-pack) is under the impression he has a six-pack, flirting outrageously and inappropriately with the office staff.
Then there's Mira, your boss, normally a straight-laced executive, who, as the night progresses, reveals her penchant for lip synching every song from the Rocky Horror Show (complete with pelvic thrusts).
These gradual devolutions are somehow acceptable, and even entertaining, when you're a bit tipsy yourself, but when you're stone-cold sober and anticipating a car trip home that resembles the courtesy bus back
from Wine Country, it's hard to stay positive.
You need to say, straight up, before anyone falls under the false pretense that you are a bodyguard, or an allied health worker, or a clinical psychologist, that you are also attending the party to enjoy yourself.
Leave your car at home. If you don't drink, furtively order some water in shot glasses and make a show of slamming them down in quick succession.
If there's any uncertainty as to your ability to be a rescuer, perhaps start a rousing rendition of Taylor Swift's The Fate of Ophelia, using whatever props you can find (a life ring would be handy).
Hopefully they will be smart enough to read the subtext that you will not be saving any of them that night.
Hop to it! - India = Taj Mahal, Jordan = Petra, Australia = Uluru, Russia = Kremlin, Italy = Colosseum, Greece = Acropolis, Peru = Machu Picchu and Japan = Mount Fuji.
Kids Boot Camp 053
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
CWA Mid North Coast holds 97th Annual Conference
q Mid North Coast Group office bearers for 2026: Pauline Cain (Publicity), Chrystine Bouffler (International), Lexie Burton (Land Cookery), Tanya Jolly (State President), Carmel James (Vice President), Lynn Moore (Group President), Doreen Burns (Vice President), Yvette Smith (Social Issues), Donna Kemp (Ag and Environment), Barbara Veness (Vice President), Eunice Roberts (Secretary), Kathy Jeanes (Cultural), Janella Leotta (Treasurer), Leonie Fish (State Vice President) and Rhonda Merchant (Vice President). Photos: Pauline Cain.
By Pauline CAIN
THE Mid North Coast Group of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) held its 97th Annual Conference at Stuarts Point Community Hall on Tuesday, 28 October.
This year the conference was hosted by the Yarrahappini CWA.
Diana Oakes, President of Yarrahappini Branch, welcomed 80 CWA members and thanked the Macksville Branch for their assistance with catering and hospitality.
Special guests included CWA State President Tanya Jolly, State Vice President Leonie Fish, and a number of presidents and
representatives from other regional groups.
Past presidents of the Mid North Coast Group - Colleen Yates, Gay Cowan (who is also the Group Patron), Barbara Reichert and Rhonda Merchant - were also in attendance.
Group President Lynn Moore addressed the
q Visiting group representatives: Wanthella Group Vice President Sonia O’Keefe (Walcha Branch), State Vice President Leonie Fish (South Grafton Evening Branch), North Coast Group Vice President Trish Stabback (Woolgoolga Branch), Hunter Group Immediate Past President Deborah Schaefer (Nelson Bay Branch), Hunter River Group’s Penelope Fenley (Merriwa Branch), North Coast Group President Leonie Saunders (Yamba Branch), North Coast Group Secretary Jodie Williams (Coffs Harbour Branch), Mid North Coast Group President Lynn Moore (Port Macquarie Branch) and State President Tanya Jolly.
conference at the beginning of the day, highlighting the events and achievements of the past 12 months.
“My sincere thanks to Wauchope, Gladstone
By Cosette DE LORENZO
THE Hunter New England Local Health District team has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to health care at the 2025 NSW Health Awards.
The annual event celebrates the dedication, kindness, innovation and achievements of those who make a positive impact on
the health and wellbeing of their communities.
“I’m incredibly proud to celebrate the people and teams in NSW Health who are enriching health in millions of ways every day,” NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce said.
“From our steadfast volunteers to our clinical treating teams who are there caring for patients.”
This year’s awards saw 198 nominations across 15 categories.
The Hunter New England Local Health District’s Farmgate Support Program won the mental health services award for its success supporting farmers’ emotional wellbeing.
Over 80 percent of participants in the program reported improvements.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson called the program “powerful”.
“It’s fantastic to see local initiatives making a real difference in people’s lives,” she said..
“Farmers and rural communities face pressures that most of us don’t see. This program has been there to support their mental and emotional wellbeing.”
Evening and Wingham branches for the work they did in helping members of their community put their lives back together with flood grants, hands on labour and at times a shoulder to lean on,” she said of recent flood recovery efforts.
“CWA made an important impact on people’s lives in such a harrowing time.”
Recognition for ‘outstanding’ health district team
Other standout projects included a world-first clinical study developing 3D bioprinted skin from patients’ own cells to revolutionise burn and wound care, and a program enabling people with intellectual disabilities to have blood tests outside hospital settings.
"I want to congratulate the winners and all 41 finalists for their remarkable
achievements in providing the very best care to the people of NSW,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.
"It's also fantastic to see those winners from rural and regional areas, highlighting the great care available to communities right across the state.”
The full list of winners and finalists is available on the NSW Health website.
Support for community recovery after flood
A NEW program has been launched to support local recovery efforts after the devastating May 2025 floods.
Funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the program aims to strengthen the region’s ability to recover through community-led action, partnerships, practical support and the funding of a Community Recovery Officer at MidCoast Council.
MidCoast Council’s Director of Liveable
Communities, Paul De Szell, said that while the scale of the May flood event was extraordinary and recovery will take years, the Reconstruction Authority funding will provide strong support for local solutions.
Part of the program includes supporting the MidCoast Community Resilience Network (CRN) - a growing alliance of community leaders, service providers, and volunteers
working together to strengthen local resilience and recovery capacity.
A range of other initiatives include:
• Workshops and events to help communities access funding, prepare for future emergencies, and support wellbeing
• Mobilising volunteers to support farm and housing clean up and repairs, especially in more isolated areas
• Community-led activities that build social connection and long-term recovery
• Feedback and consultation processes to ensure recovery work reflects local needs
Mr De Szell said the program will be tailored to the needs of each community and will support locally driven recovery.
“This could be supporting a neighbourhood hosting a
preparedness event, running a grant writing workshop, or simply connecting someone to the right service - recovery starts with connection and our program will provide that to communities in need,” he said.
Regular updates, event announcements, and resources will be available on the MidCoast Council website, where residents can also provide feedback and learn how to get involved in recovery efforts. This project is supported by the Australian Government and NSW Government through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). To learn more, connect with Kristy Petersen, or find out how to get involved, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov. au/recovery or email kristy. petersen@midcoast.nsw.gov. au.
q Wallamba Branch members.
q Gloucester Evening Branch members.
q Gloucester Day Branch members.
Gloucester Masters Games
By Lorraine FORBES
THE 2025 Gloucester Masters Games were scheduled for the weekend of Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November.
The local soccer, croquet and lawn bowls clubs participated in the weekend activities with players from the Newcastle, Port Stephens and Mid Coast areas as well as Port
Macquarie, South West Rocks and Camden Haven travelling to join the Gloucester participants in the event. Unfortunately, the planned hockey matches were unable to go ahead due to a shortage of teams and the condition of the amenities at Cook Park. Prize money for each participating club was very generously provided by Gloucester
Community Shop and distributed by Gloucester Sports Committee.
All matches took place on Saturday on Gloucester Park with the forecast wet weather not adversely affecting the day’s play.
Thirty players enjoyed round robin doubles on the croquet courts, while thirty-two players filled the green at the
Gloucester Lady Bowlers
By Jennifer BURLEY
UNDER clear skies the Semi Final of the Triples Championship had an early 8 am
start in an effort to get ahead of the expected heat.The team of Cheryl Tull, Suzanne Cross and Joy Hurworth defeated Lou Clements,Bev Murray and
Di Pritchard by 23 to 10. And the team of Joan Ridgeway, Jenny Burley and Bev Germon defeated Julie Kriss,Jill Carson and Karen Heiningher 23 to
bowling club for the Over 60’s Mixed Fours and five teams fought it out on the soccer fields.
Players were provided with lunch and morning/afternoon treats as well.
Many thanks to those club members who organised each event, with a special thanks to the volunteers who catered for the visitors. Feedback indicates that next year will be bigger and better, with many already booking in!
Bowls – Teams played 3 games of 12 ends during the day.
Members of the winning and second place teams were Chris Pritchard, Bev Murray, Di Pritchard, Garry Moss, Michael Sheely, Kevin Everett, Judy Sheely and Jill Everett. Croquet -- Play took place in three blocks of doubles.
Games were 45-minute timed, each team having four games. Fortunately, the day’s play was not affected by rain with everyone having a great
time and enjoying great team spirit.
Soccer – A fantastic day on the fields with great football, good humour and community spirit and only the last game of the day cut short by rain.
Camden Haven Redbacks were the winners on the day, with Crescent Head Silverbacks in second place. Di Relf from Gloucester Community Shop was on hand to make the presentation to the winning team.
7, which means the Final will be played on Wednesday 12th (today) between Joy's team and Bev's, all the best to both teams. Many thanks to Garry Moss for your umpiring, much appreciated. There was also 2 teams of girls who enjoyed a social game of Triples, Penny Gibson,Denise Redman and Jill Everett/Debbie Horner 23 defeated Helen Banks,Val Pritchard and Debbie Cushway 11.As our program of bowls is winding down for the Christmas break, social bowls will still be played so if anyone would like to give the game a try you would be most welcome to come at 8.30am to the club. Many Thanks go to the Community Opp shop for the sponsorship of the recent Masters Mixed 4 Ball.
Mann, Maddalena win ambrose golf
McIntyre in hot vets golf win
By Peter WILDBLOOD
THE Gloucester Veteran Golfers turned out on Monday this last week to avoid the hubbub of the “race of the century” the following day and they did so in steamy hot conditions with only Peter McIntyre playing well enough to play inside his handicap.
The event, which was sponsored by Carolyn Davies, was an Individual Stableford in which Peter McIntyre
turning in a card reading 37 points for a worthy win in the conditions.
Ball winners were Carolyn Davies 36, Karen Howarth and Derek Bardwell 35 and Arthur Poynting and Paul Thibault 34.
There was no one near the flagstick on the green at the 4th and 13th holes although the story was different at the 6th and 15th holes with Carolyn Davies and Ken Kelly taking home the Nearest-to-
the-Pin trophies there.
This last Tuesday, 11 November, the Gloucester Veterans were to host the Wingham Veteran Golfers in an Individual Stableford for the Glowing Shield, an annual competition between the two veteran groups.
This coming Tuesday, 18 November, they will play a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford sponsored by Ros and Peter McIntyre.
By Peter WILDBLOOD
THE was just half a stroke in it at the Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday, 8 November, and that half-stroke was enough for Wayne Maddalena and Dave Mann to claim victory.
The event was a Two Person Ambrose sponsored by Gloucester Ceramics and played in warm conditions with the threat of a thunderstorm ever present.
The winning pair, with net score of 63 comprised Wayne Maddalena and Dave Mann; they were ½ a stroke ahead
of runners up Stacey Groves and Steve Mercer 63½.
In third place were Nathan McInnes and Roy Crichton 65 followed by Paul Blanch and Paul Garland, 65¾, in fourth place and Liam Warmsley and Dave Warmsley also scoring 65¾.
Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies were awarded on all holes with Paul Blanch, Roy Crichton, Nathan McInnes, Paul Garland, Steve Burns, Stacey Groves, Will Peirce, Dave Mann and Evelyn Blanch all picking up trophies on the day.
The long drive prizes at the 7th and 18th holes were won by Paul Blanch, Clint
Churchyard, Paul Garland and Evelyn Blanch.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 7 November was won by Graeme Marsh, 19. Ball winners were Dave Mann, Chris Steele, Rob Moore and Bill Murray, all with 17 points, followed by Stacey Groves 16 and Paul Thibault 15 on a count back.
This coming Saturday the Gloucester Golf Club will be playing an Individual Stableford sponsored by Jason Collins Transport and the following Saturday Avon Valley meats will sponsor another Individual Stableford.
q Dave Mann, Wayne Maddalena, Stacey Groves, Steve Mercer.
q Peter McIntyre, Carolyn Davies.
Davies, Maggs win women’s golf
By Carolyn DAVIES
IT WAS a perfect day for golf last Wednesday, 5 November, for the Gloucester Ladies' Individual Stableford, with the sun shining and a gentle breeze to keep the temperature down; it was a day in which Carolyn Davies and Anne Maggs storming home for a good win in their respective divisions.
The great conditions were reflected in the scores, with Division 1 won by Carolyn
Davies with 40 Stableford points and Division 2 by Anne Maggs with an even better score of 42 points. Both players won colourful food and vegetable trays from the sponsors for the day, Evelyn Blanch and Elaine Murray.
The first three balls were won by those who played better than handicap; Gai Falla 39; Karen Howarth and Rhonda Nightingale 38. The final ball went to Susie Higgins with 34 points, on a countback.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin prizes at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Anne Wand, who also took out the Division 1 prize at the 6th and 15th holes. Lesly Harrison landed her shot close to the pin to win the prize for Division 2 at that hole.
Also played in conjunction with the day’s event was the Monthly Medal Playoff with only those players who had won a Monthly Medal during the year eligible. Carolyn Davies won with 40 points,
Gloucester Croquet Club
By Bev MURRAY
SATURDAY 1 November our courts were alive with players all day for the 4th District Masters Games.
Although storms were predicted in the afternoon, we enjoyed next to perfect weather all day.
Rain gear was only needed briefly.
Thirty players from within our region had entered.
This meant our courts would be double banked all day.
Entrants came from Forster, Taree, Nelson Bay, Maitland, Toronto as well as Gloucester.
Sign-in took place from 8.00am with play starting at 8.30.
With President Ashleigh away on another commitment, Vice President Denise Bruce welcomed both members and visitors.
Bev Murray refreshed the rules of the day, and the first games were called.
Played over 3 blocks,
games were 45 min. timed, each team having four games over the course of the day.
Penny Jude from Forster was Tournament Referee and was ably assisted by two others from Taree and Nelson Bay.
Handicaps ranged from 1 to 14 so players and
spectators alike witnessed some excellent accuracy and strategy during the day.
To beat any change in weather play continued as participants enjoyed a staggered lunch break.
Tea/coffee and treats were available all day as well.
To conclude, Denise
sinking a putt on the last hole to edge out to Gai Falla, 39 points.
The day was also the annual Town versus Country contest, with the Town players just beating Country.
This Wednesday, 12 November, the Gloucester Golf Ladies start their series of 12-hole Stableford event that make up their Summer Competition, which runs through to mid-February.
thanked all for their generous contribution to what was another very successful Masters.
She then announced the winners of each block – presenting medals and prizemoney to the winners, with prizemoney to all runners-up as well.
Block A winners: Stephen Dilley Jnr. (Toronto) & Paul Moylan (Forster)
Runners-up: Trevor
Black (Nelson Bay) & Jamie McIntyre (Toronto)
Block B winners: Sherry
Gordon & Faby Batho (Nelson Bay)
Runners-up:
Matthew Rigby (Forster) & Chris Sims (Gloucester)
Block C winners: Robyn
Watts (Maitland) & Rosemary
Taylor (Nelson Bay)
Runners-up: Carmel
Congratulations
Tournament success
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
for 30 years.
Tony Kingston, President of the Gloucester Tennis Club, highlighted the tournament's inclusiveness and social aspects.
“All club members contribute to the club, and it’s wonderful for so many out-of-towners to experience the hospitality of Gloucester.”
Tennis coach Greg Billingham has also been actively developing the talents of junior players in the town.
“We are growing the junior cohort of the club and many played in the tournament,” Tony told News Of The Area.
A significant event at the tournament is the Evan O'Neil Open Men’s Singles Trophy.
Ben Howen, Adam Feeney, and Dane Fernandez, who wish to
honour their friend Evan O’Neil, have for the second year donated the prize money for this event.
The trophy has been in Adam Feeney's possession for seven years running.
“It’s a difficult trophy to wrest from Adam,” Ruth remarked, “but it serves
as good motivation for the other players.”
The club conducts various competitions throughout the year, including a Seniors tournament in April and the Club Championships in the middle of the year.
Tony noted that
there are numerous opportunities for tennis players to get involved.
“We have mixed competitions on Tuesday nights, a ladies' competition on Thursday nights, and social tennis on Tuesday and Friday evenings. All skill levels are welcome,” he stated.
“However, the Gloucester Open is one of
our favourite events. We are already planning for next year.”
If you would like to know more about tennis in Gloucester, Tony invites you to contact him at 0427 582 737 or go to the Club’s website https://play.tennis.com.au/gloucesterdistricttennisassociation.
Rigby (Forster) & Kath Orton (Nelson Bay)
to all winners and participants.
From the Gloucester Club congratulations to Chris Sims who came away with a second place in his Block –his third year of being in the winner’s circle! Well done too to Greg Bell who was a close third in his Block.
q Carolyn Davies, Anne Maggs.
q The group before hit-off.
q The Wyong crowd.
Give life. Give blood.
Tournament
By Wendy BUSWELL
THE Seven Sounds Gloucester Open experienced another successful year in 2025, attracting over 100 players and their families to the town.
“More than 70 percent of the players come from outside the area, including Sydney, the Central Coast, and the Newcastle Hunter region,” said Ruth Johnson, the Tournament Secretary.
“This influx is a great boost for the Gloucester economy.”
Held over the October long weekend, the Open has been a cornerstone event for the Gloucester Tennis Club for over 60 years.
“We have players who have been involved since the competition started and are now bringing their grandchildren to compete,” Ruth added.
Sue Rynsaardt, a member of the winning pair in the women’s doubles competition, has been participating from Sydney
CONTINUED Page 15
q Gloucester Tennis Club president Tony Kingston, Adam Feeney, Dane Fernandez and Ben Howen.
