Exciting vision for Gloucester High
By John WATTS
FUNDING SECURED
q Ms Suvaal with the school captains Emma and Sam, Relieving Principal Mik Wisely and the P&C’s James Hooke.
By Wendy BUSWELL
MAUREEN (Mo) Hjorth
knew from a young age that she wanted to be a performer.
this is it’.”
She credits her mother with being the significant inspiration behind the memoir.
(02) 4981 8882 Wendy
wendy@newsofthearea.com.au
“When asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always the same - ‘I’m going to be an actress’,” she told News Of The Area.
Her life as an actress is detailed in her recently published memoir “This Is It”, which will be launched at the Gloucester Gallery on Saturday 23 August at 4pm.
The memoir chronicles her journey as an actress, from her early experiences on stage, to taking on the persona of Ginnie Shaw, and her decision to retire from touring and adopt a quieter lifestyle.
CLASSIFIEDS
“The book reflects this part of my life because I believed it was the most eventful and exciting period.”
“Every time I returned home from a tour, I'd share my experiences with her, and she’d always say, ‘You should write this down’.”
It wasn't until Mo moved to Gloucester that she began to contemplate putting those stories onto paper.
She joined several writing groups, with one encouraging her to write about her life.
“The memoir sat on my computer for about two years, and one morning I woke up and thought, ‘I’m publishing this’.”
Her mother also inspired the title of the book.
“After I finished writing, I looked up and said, ‘Okay Mum, finally,
When asked if there were any parts of her life she considered omitting, Mo said there were a few she considered cutting “but they were part of my story, so they're included.”
“I’ve always known I’ve had a blessed life, and I enjoyed reliving that through my writing.”
Writing the memoir also helped her recognise the support her parents provided throughout her career.
“I didn’t truly appreciate all they had done for me until now.”
As for writing another book, Mo said that although she enjoyed the process of writing her memoir, she currently does not feel inspired to write something new.
Despite stepping away from touring many years ago, she continues to perform on stage.
She has been a
FUNDING SECURED
FROM Page 1
overhead power lines underground and relocate a building to replace an unsafe structure. The CBP program funds community
key figure in the local theatrical scene since relocating to Gloucester in 2007, having performed in and directed numerous productions.
eligible to apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, with up to $450,000 allocated to the Upper Hunter electorate.
“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing the positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes in our community,” said Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell.
Also making the Upper Hunter electorate list of successful projects for the 2025 CBP round:
- Stroud Neighbourhood Children's Co-operative Limited secured $17,001 for Echosorb panels at the community preschool to reduce excessive noise and echoes;
- Clarence Town Rural Fire Brigade has $14,049 for the purchase of new radio hand pieces, a laptop, marquee, lighting
Mo is currently working on the Monologue Project for Gloucester Arts and Cultural Council Inc. (GACCI).
and chargers;
- Dungog Showjumping Club can upgrade essential equipment including a jump trailer, additional jumps, and a gazebo for volunteers having secured $12,730;
- Rotary Club of Dungog can undertake improvements at Martins Creek Hall with $10,100 towards repainting the inside walls of the hall and installing a replacement refrigerator;
- The new Dungog Community Preschool has secured $39,907 to improve playground amenities;
- Gresford Community Group can replace its original 1940s kitchen with a new commercial kitchen after receiving $29,068; - Maitland Rugby Union Club has received $23,737 to install a battery for its solar energy system.
q Mo Hjorth in her early days. Photo: supplied.
q Gloucester Agricultural Horticultural and Pastoral Association Incorporated receives $36,000 for the Gloucester Showground infrastructure upgrade. Pictured is Taylah Eyre-Hughes, the Gloucester Show Young Woman for 2024.
Pod housing available for flood-affected farmers
ELIGIBLE primary producers
impacted by the May floods can now apply for a “selfcontained pod” on their property.
Offered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the Commonwealth Government, the pods are designed for use in rural environments, and are equipped with generators and water tanks, allowing them to operate independently of existing utilities and infrastructure.
According to the NSW Government, the pods are being provided to people who rely on farming operations for their livelihoods and need to remain on their farms.
Primary producers may also apply for a pod for essential farm employees who lived on the property.
Eligible primary producers can apply for up to two pods for a maximum of 12 months.
Following the announcement last week, NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders raised questions around the narrow eligibility criteria and why more people weren’t included under the program.
“While we can acknowledge this temporary housing is a start, it won’t help anywhere near enough people when you consider more than a thousand buildings were deemed uninhabitable,” Mr Saunders said.
“The May floods left a path of destruction across several communities tearing through people’s lives and livelihoods, and while I’ll always welcome support for farmers, this should be extended to cover anyone who is unable to return to their homes right now.”
The guidelines for the self-contained pods state that applicants must be “uninsured for flood” and
the program “does not aim to support people who are not dependent on farming operations as their primary source of income”.
Shadow Minister for the North Coast and Acting Shadow Minister for Flood Recovery Gurmesh Singh said those impacted have “had enough of the red tape”.
“The last thing people need when they are trying to get back on their feet is more unnecessary regulations and
paperwork stopping them from moving forward,” Mr Singh said.
“By imposing such stringent guidelines, it feels like the Government is trying to force people to fit into a very narrow set of rules, instead of assessing producers and residents on a case by-case basis and figuring out what they actually need to survive.”
Applications for selfcontained pods are open until 31 October 2025.
BWNG celebrates staff achievements
BUCKETTS Way
Neighbourhood Group (BWNG) recognised the hard work, dedication, and professional growth of its team members with a special Award Night at Club Gloucester, on Thursday, 7 August, coinciding with National Aged Care Workers Day.
The evening brought together staff, trainees, volunteers and community members to honour the work undertaken by trainees and the vital role workers play in supporting the community.
“As a multi-service organisation, we are often the quiet achievers,” said Anna Burley, BWNG’s CEO. “But the truth is, we also need to be superheroes, delivering support with skill, compassion, strength and dedication every single day.”
BWNG believes the
cornerstone of a highquality service is a skilled and capable team.
Education and ongoing training are central to achieving this goal.
In 2020, in response to the challenge of recruiting qualified staff, BWNG launched its innovative ‘Grow Our Own’ program.
The program supports the professional development of existing staff while also creating opportunities for local people at the start of their careers to gain nationally recognised qualifications.
Since its inception, 27 BWNG team members have successfully completed qualifications across a range of fields, including: Individual Support; Governance; Marketing and Communication; Business Administration; Accounting and Finance;
Community Services; Nursing; Indigenous language studies; and Leadership.
The Award Night was both a celebration of individual success and a reminder of the collective commitment required to provide exceptional care.
“We are so proud of our team members who have committed to learning and growing in their roles,” said Anna.
“Investing in our people is the best way to ensure we continue delivering the quality service our community deserves.”
BWNG plans to continue expanding the ‘Grow Our Own’ program, with two new SchoolBased Trainees recently joining the team, plus new training opportunities in the pipeline for 2026 and beyond.
Exciting vision for Gloucester High
future.”
FROM Page 1
school.
Ms Suvaal toured the campus, engaged with student leaders, and reviewed proposals to support the school’s strong academic and sporting traditions.
“Gloucester High School is a proud institution with a committed teaching staff and vibrant student body,” she said.
“It’s clear that the community is deeply invested in the school’s ongoing success, and I’m impressed by the proactive steps being taken to plan for the school's
The school’s improvement plan involves a significant investment program.
Funds raised by the community through the newly launched Gloucester High School Foundation, which was established by the
TRIVIA NIGHT FUNDRAISER
P&C with the aim of uniting families, alumni, and local businesses, will be used to develop both infrastructure and educational excellence.
Ms Suvaal expressed her support for the school’s vision and acknowledged the broader benefits of investing in regional education.
Nigel McIntosh, copresident of the P&C, said helping Gloucester High School isn’t just about bricks and mortar.
“It’s about equity, opportunity, and community pride.”
Fellow co-president James Hooke added, “We’re grateful for Ms Suvaal’s engagement and look forward to working together
to deliver lasting change.” For further information, or to support the Gloucester High School Foundation and the P&C, visit the school’s website at gloucester-h. schools.nsw.gov.au.
Early readers might also like to join the school’s Trivia Night tonight, Wednesday 13 August.
Tickets are available from McGrath Real Estate.
q Award recipients Tia Borham, Kim Oxenbridge, Anne Marie Green, Leanne Wilkinson, Kerri Wilson, Jenny Hitchcock, Wendy Maslen, Rhonda Schiffman, Nicole Cook, Kylie Galvin, Connor Grady, Leanne Tull, Amber Galvin and Anna Burley.
Female pilots won't let gendered headwinds divert them
Flight Training in the upper Hunter, where she trains the next generation of pilots.
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
A GROWING number of female pilots are making their mark in one of the most male-dominated industries in Australia, saying more women should fly planes.
"The aircraft doesn't care what gender you are. It responds to skill and judgment," pilot Amelia Johnson tells AAP.
"The feeling of flying
yourself for the first time is unlike anything I've ever experienced."
Ms Johnson decided to make a mid-career switch in her mid-30s - from owning a business in the events industry to taking a seat in the cockpit.
She traded in Sydney's northern beaches for the rural Hunter region to make a dream she'd had since finishing high school a reality.
"(Flying) was something I was always interested in as a young girl but when I looked at it as a career option in year 12, I was a bit intimidated and decided not to pursue it," she said.
"When we moved to the Hunter, I didn't even know if I'd been accepted into flight school or if I could actually afford it, so there were a lot of unknowns."
Ms Johnson moved to
2026 KINDERGARTEN TRANSITION INFORMATION
Sessions 2 to 4; 9am - 12pm
Our transition program, ‘Early Birds’ provides opportunities for students to visit the school and participate in classroom and playground activities.
The program supports a smooth and positive transition experience from home to school for kindergarten class of 2026. The program fosters an environment of safety and belonging and allows students to commence kindergarten with confidence.
Successful Foundations provides children with the opportunity to actively demonstrate their knowledge with the context of the school, through play!
PARENT AND STUDENT
Session 1 (Term 3)
Tuesday 5th August 9:15-10:15am
Children can attend playgroup, 9:15-10:15am while parents/carers attend information session with school counsellor.
Session 2 (Term 4)
Tuesday 28th October 9:15-10:15am
Children can join Early Birds while parents/carers attend Information Session with Principal.
Students attend Early Birds transition program from 9am - 12pm. Pick up at the front office.
STUDENT SESSIONS
Session 3 (Term 4)
Tuesday 4th November 9-12pm
Parent’s kiss and drop for Early Birds.
Uniforms on display and available to purchase.
Session 4 (Term 4)
Tuesday 11th November 9-12pm
Parent’s kiss and drop for Early Birds.
Uniforms on display and available to purchase
the region with her young son, who has since earned his pilot's licence - before qualifying for his driver's licence.
Seven years on, Ms Johnson is now a lead instructor at Aerohunter
She also mentors young women hoping to break into the industry.
Her students include 17-year-old Ava Boras, who wants to fly commercially internationally for a major airline one day.
Ms Boras has worked multiple jobs to put herself through flight school - her qualifications have so far cost her about $22,000 - but has taken a break from flying and working to focus on her HSC.
The male-dominated nature of the aviation industry has not put her off her goal of becoming a pilot.
"At the end of the day we're all human, just trying to do the job, and it doesn't matter if you're male or female because it's all down to skill and what you know," Ms Boras said.
"But it would be nice to see more female faces around the airport."
According to Qantas' 2025 gender pay gap statement, only 7.5 percent of pilots are
women, which is higher than the global average of four percent.
Yet female pilots might outperform their male colleagues, a study conducted by Canada's University of Waterloo found.
Despite male and female pilots having almost identical visual attention patterns and flight experience, the study found female pilots tended to make fewer flight control errors in high-stress situations.
While both paid attention to the same information during a flight, women's responses were more consistent and accurate.
Ms Johnson said it was satisfying to see more women coming through the Hunter flight school.
"The human factors in flying are what women are quite skilled at naturally: great communicators, can perform under pressure and we're good at being risk aware and making difficult decisions," she said.
"You don't have to be fearless, just willing."
Digital readiness workshop on offer
A FREE digital readiness workshop will be held in Stroud in September, through a collaboration between nbn, MidCoast Council and The Business Centre Newcastle.
The workshop is suited to small businesses seeking ways to enhance their digital skills and capabilities.
Workshops are designed to provide small business owners with expert guidance and practical advice on how to grow their business online and will cover e-commerce and online sales, digital marketing basics, payments, and cyber security.
“This initiative is all about equipping local businesses with the digital skills and practical
strategies they need to operate in today’s competitive environment,”
Head of nbn Local NSW Tom O’Dea said.
“This marks the fourth session we’ve hosted across the MidCoast local government area, following successful events in Forster, Taree and Bulahdelah, and we’re excited to continue supporting the local business community on their digital journey.”
The workshop is free to attend, but spaces are limited.
Interested participants are encouraged to register now to secure their spot.
The workshop will be held on Tuesday, 2 September from 5:307:30pm at Stroud School
of Arts hall. For more information and to register, please visit https://www. eventbrite.com.au /e/digital-readinessworkshop-tickets1546230710679? aff=oddtdtcreato
Community pop-ups
The nbn Local team will also be visiting Stroud to help customers understand and take advantage of recently completed fixed wireless upgrades.
The team can also provide advice on making the most of their home internet and setup.
The pop-ups will be held on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 September from 9am to 5pm at the Friendly Grocer, 50 Cowper Street, Stroud.
TELLING the incredible stories of Gloucester is what News Of The Area (NOTA) is all about.
The independentlyowned NOTA is proud to keep locals up to date with the happenings of the area.
Now, NOTA is seeking more enthusiastic locals with a background in writing to join the team in Gloucester.
“If you have a background in writing, and a passion for your local community, I would love to hear from
you,” said NOTA Group Editor Douglas Connor.
“As the paper continues to grow, we are always looking for enthusiastic wordsmiths to help cover the region’s news, sport, events, music etc.”
Writing for NOTA can be an amazing way to connect with your local community, to meet some of the aweinspiring locals creating change in the area, and to learn and experience the unique elements of life in our region.
Writing for NOTA is flexible, with contributor reporters able to submit as many or as few stories per week to fit in with their present lifestyle and commitments.
If you want to be a part of helping the community get its weekly local news hit, then let's start the conversation. Send us an email telling us a bit about yourself to doug@ newsofthearea.com.au.
q Amelia Johnson made a mid-career switch to become an aviator and now mentors young female pilots. Photo: supplied.
HUNTER region residents have the chance to shape five renewable energy-related projects in their area.
EnergyCo is expanding the Hunter Transmission Project’s Regional Reference Group (RRG) into a broader
Entries for the Tea Cosy and Trivet competitions are due by 24th August.
All prizes awarded (including students) are cash and the overall Tea Cosy of the Year winner is awarded $500.
Students’ Artwork is due in by 31st August. All Preschools & schools are encouraged to enter art creations, which will be displayed during the tea party event. Contact DTP for more information.
Open Day is Wednesday 10th at 10am when the winners are announced, followed by a morning tea catered by Dungog High School. Anyone may attend.
Market stalls with Tea Cosies and Trivets sold by the contestants.
Hunter-Central Coast RRG.
“This change reflects the portfolio of EnergyCo projects in the Hunter and
DUNGOG
Tea Party
JAMES THEATRE DUNGOG 10TH - 14TH SEPTEMBER 2025 OPEN
Plenty to see and do with our arty shops, cafes & eateries with easy flat walking, ample parking and next to the train station with services available daily from Sydney and Newcastle. We welcome bus groups.
Workshops: 10 - 14 Sept.
Tea Making - Thursday 11th. To book contact Country Elegance Gardens & Gifts49923555
Paint & Sip - Friday 12th evening held by Earth & Elm at the Tinshed Brewery.
dungogteaparty@gmail.com www.dungogteaparty.com.au 0429 629 014
will ensure the region’s voice will continue to inform future energy infrastructure,” EnergyCo said in a statement.
“Formed in early 2024, the Regional Reference Group (RRG) plays an important role in connecting EnergyCo with environment and community groups, industry, training organisations, local government and other stakeholders as part of the Hunter Transmission Project (HTP).”
EnergyCo is now working across five major projects in the Hunter and Central Coast and an expanded RRG will
help guide their planning and delivery.
The new Hunter-Central Coast RRG brings together stakeholders from across the region for shared engagement on key projects, including:
• The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone (REZ)
• The Hunter Transmission Project (HTP)
• The Newcastle Logistics Precinct
• The Waratah Super Battery
• The Port to REZ road network upgrades.
The region includes
EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey said, “The Hunter region is at the heart of the energy transition in NSW.
“The Hunter-Central Coast Regional Reference Group provides a platform for collaborative and meaningful engagement across all our projects.”
the local government areas of Upper Hunter, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Mid-Coast, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Central Coast.
q EnergyCo is now working across five major projects in the Hunter and Central Coast. Photo: EnergyCo.
THE Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon. Milton Dick MP, has launched the “My First Speech" competition for high school students across Australia.
Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is encouraging students from across the electorate to take part in this unique opportunity to learn more about Parliament and public speaking.
The annual competition invites students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to step into the shoes of a newly elected Member of Parliament and write a compelling 90-second speech on an issue they are passionate about – with the winners from each year group to be flown to Canberra
to deliver their speeches in Parliament House.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for students in our region to voice the issues that matter most to them,” Ms Penfold said.
“Young people have a lot to say, and this competition gives them a platform to step up and be heard.”
In addition to presenting their speeches, winners will participate in a tour of Parliament House, observe Question Time, receive a prize pack from the Parliament Shop, and engage in an immersive education program.
“This is more than a speech competition,” Ms Penfold said.
“It’s about building confidence, deepening civic understanding, and helping students see how they can actively contribute to our democracy.
“I encourage all eligible schools to get involved – it would be wonderful to see a young Lyne local speaking in Parliament!”
Entries close at 11.59 pm AEST on Monday 15 September 2025 and can be submitted via the competition’s official website: mfs.houseofrepresentatives. gov.au.
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP,
John Street, Singleton
WEDNESDAY, August 20
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.20 Back Roads. (R) 2.50 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 3.40 Grand Designs Transformations. (Final, PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (R) 9.50 Rick Steves’ Europe. (R) 10.50 Looking For Rembrandt. (Ms, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Point. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Wonders Of Volcanoes With Dara Ó Briain. (PGa)
8.25 Aerial Australia. (PGaw)
9.20 Smilla’s Sense Of Snow. (M)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Estonia. (Ma)
12.30 Das Boot. (MA15+av, R)
2.25 Curious Traveller. (R)
3.25 Incredible Homes. (R)
4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PG, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Armed And Dangerous. (Mav, R)
11.30 Border Security: International. (PGadl, R)
12.00 Imposters. (Madlv, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 Clarkson’s Farm: Jobbing. (Ml) Kaleb gives Jeremy a festive surprise. 9.45 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 10.45 9News Late. 11.15 The Grand Tour. (MA15+l) 12.30 Tipping Point. (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)
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THURSDAY,
August 21
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.55 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) 11.35 Nigella Bites. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Ma, R) 2.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 3.45 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
(R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.50 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.50 Rick Steves’ Europe. (R) 10.50 Looking For Rembrandt. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Mystery Of The Assassination Of JFK. (Mav, R) 2.45 Garage Dreams. (Premiere) 3.15 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.45
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Australian Road Trips. (PG)
8.30 National Parks From Above: Ireland. (Premiere, PGa)
9.25 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Dopesick. (Mals, R)
11.50 Desperate Measures. (Malv, R)
1.30 Curious Traveller. (R)
2.30 Incredible Homes. (R)
3.30 Great Irish Interiors. (R)
4.00 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30
SBS MOVIES (32)
Company. Continued. (2003, PG) 7.35 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 9.25 The Movie Show. 10.00 Two Many Chefs. (2022, M, Spanish) 11.40 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 2pm Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 3.40 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 5.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 7.30 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 9.30 Calvary. (2014, MA15+) 11.25 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.40 The Way. (2010, PG) 10.00 The Fence. (2022, M) 11.45 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 1.40pm Playground. (2021, M, French) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 5.40 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PG, French) 7.30 Dog Day Afternoon. (1975, M) 9.45 Perrier’s Bounty. (2009, MA15+) 11.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG)
9.30 Air Crash Investigations: Firebomber Down. (PGa)
10.30 Soham: Catching A Killer. (Mav, R) 11.30 Kick Ons. 12.00 Life. (Madv, R) 1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7MATE (64)
ABC FAMILY (22)
FAMILY (22)
Dungog Shire & Gloucester District News Of The Area newsofthearea.com.au Public Notices
HEART OF GLOUCESTER DISTRICT
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for the Gloucester community?
Whether they are a dedicated volunteer, a standout community member, or an all-round legend, we want to hear about them.
Please email with their details and we’ll get in touch to celebrate their wonderful contributions. tracey@newsofthearea.com.au
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SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique. Make an offer. 4982 3495
SOLAR hot water panels 300L $85 0487 239 157
WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643
2010 Ford Falcon LPG Very good condition $6,500. 0431 607 774
SUBARU Liberty 1991, AWD, 5 spd manual, cruise control 300,330kms.One owner/driver from new regular serviced. $7500 Medowie 4982 9942
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OPINION
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
PUZZLES
theCouch
DEAR Jasminda,
MY partner wants to go travelling around Australia, camping along the way.
While this sounds great in theory, I'm wondering if the reality will be feasible.
We both have jobs that are about 70 percent office-based.
Rachael O.
Dear Rachael,
It sounds like the most wonderful adventure. What an experience.
'Sounds' being the operative word.
When your partner says 'camping' you need to be
very clear about what that definition means.
For some, camping is buying a Zone RV Summit worth the average parliamentarian's annual salary, fully decked out with every mod con so that it doesn't actually feel like camping, but instead residing in a mobile luxury apartment complete with mixer taps, a separate shower and ensuite, and an upholstered bedhead.
'Camping' for these people also means staying in high-end caravan parks with all the other campers who have used up their superannuation and the kids' inheritance to get back to their youth, but without any of the youthful associations such as being stone-broke and having no mobility issues.
For others, camping involves going back to nature
News Of The Area
and doing it tough.
This type of camping is more like an episode of Alone (but without the audiovisual gear and with no guarantee of being collected in a fast rescue boat if injury and/or malnutrition and or insanity kicks in).
Living off the land is not for the faint hearted (quite literally).
If your partner has visions of you setting off with nothing more than a head torch, some bracken fern for ant bites, two pairs of undies, a hunting knife, and a banjo, you are not going travelling around Australia, you are on a survival expedition.
This is not compatible with your office bodies that are used to being within walking distance of a Barista Express coffee machine, a flushing toilet, a Spotify playlist, and an office
assistant named Max who can fix just about any issue including a migraine and/or an existential crisis.
Rachael, I suggest you do a trial run (no more than two hours from where you live) just to make sure you are both on the same page.
This will help you decide whether you like the sort of camping your partner is interested in, and also whether you can be around each other for an extended period of time.
If the answer to both those questions is yes, and if you can afford to take a year off work, then go well my friend (and take a Personal Locator Beacon with you if you find that your partner is more Bear Grylls than Paris Hilton).
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
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SCAN HERETOFIND OU T M !ERO
Quad bike standards saving lives as crackdown urged
By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP
FARMERS, their families and workers are returning home
safely after a day on the land due to stronger quad bike safety standards, but tougher enforcement could save even more lives.
Quad bikes have long been a leading cause of deaths on farms, with 10 fatalities in 2024 and 46 reports of injuries, according
to Farmsafe Australia.
National standards introduced in 2020 require vehicle stability testing, along with the installation of anticrush devices that keep quad bikes off the ground if they roll over.
Researchers have used coronial records to analyse 161 work-related quad bike deaths on farms between 2001 and 2024 to understand the effects of the new standards.
Roll-overs were responsible for 65 percent of those fatalities, according to the review published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.
Chest injuries caused deaths in more than half the cases, including instances of asphyxia, and a further 24 per cent involved head injuries.
But there was a small reduction in fatalities in the few years after the safety standards came into force, academics from the University of Sydney's School
of Rural Health found.
Lead author Tony Lower said it was early days for the standards and fewer fatalities could be expected as new quad bikes replaced the older fleet.
"They are a really effective vehicle, but we just need to see them designed safely and used safely," said Dr Lower, an honorary associate professor at AgHealth Australia.
Victoria led the decline in fatalities, possibly due to greater enforcement of the standards than other states.
Authorities issued 1200 prohibition or improvement notices to Victorian users in recent years, compared to 60 in NSW.
While people don't always like enforcement, it has proven effective in areas such as road trauma, Dr Lower said.
"Everyone should get home at the end of the day," he told AAP.
With estimates of more than 20,000 anti-
crush devices in use across Australia, there were no deaths involving vehicles fitted with roll bars, the paper said.
But there were fatalities related to quad bikes where the devices had been installed and then removed.
The Farmsafe Australia report, released in midJuly, showed fatalities from side-by-side vehicles had overtaken quad bike and tractor accident deaths for the first time in 2024.
Side-by-side vehicles were thought to be a safer alternative to quad bikes, but riders died or were injured when they carried heavy loads, did not use seatbelts or went without a helmet.
Engineering and design standards could only go so far, Dr Lower said.
"There is certainly a role for farmers, producers and parents and everybody else that works and lives on farms to ensure they do the right thing."
Cops transfer from other jurisdictions
TWENTY-ONE officers
joined the ranks of the NSW Police Force (NSWPF) last week after graduating from the Professional Mobility Program (PMP).
Previously, there was no pathway for officers to move to NSW and keep their rank.
The graduates are from
A State Government initiative, the PMP allows current serving police officers from other jurisdictions within Australia and New Zealand to train and become police officers in NSW, while keeping their equivalent rank (up to Senior Constable level six).
Queensland (three), Victoria (five), South Australia (one), Northern Territory (one), the Australian Federal Police (four) and New Zealand (seven).
Ten officers will be stationed across the state’s Northern Region, which includes the Hunter and Mid
Gloucester Parkrun
By Carolyn DAVIES
IT was another wet Saturday to test the resilience of locals and visitors who view Saturdays as “parkrundays”.
A hardy group of 17 walkers and runners gathered for the 217th Gloucester parkrun as the raindrops began to fall at Gloucester District Park.
It was a tossup for the Run Director on whether to use the wet weather course – which meant the group would have the mentally challenging task of having to do three (although shorter) loops rather than the normal two - or set up the usual course which would mean getting wet feet from the soggy grass.
The latter was opted for, which
dampened the shoes and the times, with only one finisher, Jenny Lindsay, clocking a personal best time.
Eli Soupidis was the first male finisher, while Pim Heaney from Urunga was the first female finisher on her first parkrun at Gloucester.
Next were Matthew Heaney and local Jen Sage,having fun sprinting to the end in a photo finish, with the timekeeper declaring Jen first across the line (although the results showed otherwise).
Matthew and Pim were stopping in Gloucester on their way over to the Dungog Trail Running Festival the next day.
It was a morning for catching up - Bill Murray kept tailwalker Jenny Lindsay company, while John Watts turned up for his weekly walk and
North Coast regions.
NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner Dean Smith said, “Today we see 21 PMP recruits graduate in NSW after having started their policing careers at other Australian and New Zealand policing jurisdictions.
“They have completed 12
weeks’ training at the Police Academy, and from today are appointed as probationary constables for a period of six months.
“Each of these officers brings invaluable past experience from each of their individual jurisdictions, and we are delighted they have
chat with John Bayley (which also involves running when the camera is turned on them).
Thanks as always to the volunteers who ventured out in
demonstrated a commitment to serve the people of NSW.
“This program is providing a boost to police numbers which will greatly help us best serve our communities.”
the rain to make the event happen, doing their jobs with a smile. Susan Moore was giving out tokens, in sync with timekeeper Pat Burrows, while Elaine Murray expertly scanned.
Flood funding
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
run their club canteen, which was damaged or lost in the floods.
The Rainbow Warriors, a club that provides football programs for young people with additional needs, will put the funding towards replacing equipment that was destroyed.
Gloucester parkrun is at 8am every Saturday - so come along and join in the fun of a 5 kilometre walk or run around Gloucester District Park (it's a free event).
Northern NSW Football General Manager Member Services Ross Hicks said the funding would be invaluable in helping their clubs to rebuild.
"Several of our clubs across the region have been heavily impacted by the flooding earlier this year and have struggled to get back out onto the pitch," Mr Hicks said.
"Thank you to Newcastle
Permanent for their donation and ongoing support to our clubs across the Mid North Coast throughout this tough time.”
Newcastle Permanent Taree Senior Manager Retail Kayla Weller said, "We hope that this donation can help Mid Coast FC and Rainbow Warriors FC get back on their feet and spark some joy back into the Taree football community, who has been through so much,” Ms Weller said.
q Enforcement of safety standards could lower farming deaths involving quad bikes, research indicates. Photo: Mark Tadic/AAP PHOTOS.
q Ladies in red.
q Singing in the rain.
q Rainbow Warriors representatives receive the giant cheque.
