THE
Since
“Rotary
By Wendy BUSWELL
“Gloucester
q Gloucester Rotary Club members of 2025. Photo: supplied.
John WATTS 0438 346 544 watts@newsofthearea.com.au
Gloucester Rotary celebrates its 75th anniversary
FROM Page 1
Wendy BUSWELL 0415 124 960 wendy@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
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Gloucester Woolworths Information Centre Better Flooring
Elders
Bucketts Building
Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Centre
Newsagent Club Gloucester
Lovey's IGA
R & R Property
Gloucester Library
Gloucester Caravan Park
Hebbys Bakery
Yates & Twomey
Hannaford Stock & Land Real Estate
Barrington
Barrington Shop
the community and promote international understanding and goodwill, which the club has successfully done for 75 years.”
Current President Brian Beesley emphasised that Gloucester Rotary is a service organisation.
“Service above self is the overarching motto we operate under.
"We invest in people, leverage our Rotary vocational expertise, and make things happen.”
Over the years, Gloucester Rotary has supported the local community by raising funds for various projects.
“Events like Bush Poetry in the Saleyards and the Easter Duck Races, along with numerous BBQs, allow us to invest around
$20,000 annually back into our local community and international humanitarian work,” Mr Beesley told News Of The Area.
For 25 years, Gloucester Rotary established and funded a motivational program for Year 10 students at Gloucester High School called RYSAP (Rotary Youth Self Achievement Program).
More than 600 students have participated in this program.
WASTE SAMPLING
FROM Page 1
through the latest sampling techniques and high precision chemical analysis to identify critical minerals.
This uncovered elevated concentrations of 11 critical minerals and high-tech metals, including copper, cobalt, silver and antimony.
Chief Geoscientist and head of the Geological Survey of NSW, Dr Phil Blevin said, “The Mine Reuse Project is a direct outcome of the government’s commitment to a Critical Mineral and HighTech Metals Strategy that drives investment and innovation in the exploration and mining sector through the provision of worldclass and targeted precompetitive geoscience.
“There is a significant multiplier effect in the provision of this data, and it helps drive exploration and innovation.
“The results of the Mine Reuse Project is just another example of this.”
Historic mines where sampling occurred include CSA in the Central West, Queen Bee, Great Cobar and Nymagee in the Far West, Endeavour Elura and Endeavour McKinnons in the Central West, and Hillgrove in the Northern Tablelands.
Current mines where researchers were looking for additional materials include Peak Gold Mine and Tritton near Cobar, RASP and Southern Operations
“A highlight this year was the visit from the Yipirinya Indigenous Boys from Alice Springs to Gloucester.”
Gloucester Rotary also maintains a strong relationship with Rotary’s Youth Exchange program, having hosted over 30 foreign exchange students and sponsored Gloucester youth to travel abroad.
“The Rotary Exchange Program is a crucial aspect of Rotary; it helps to broaden international understanding,” said Mr
Webb. The club has adapted to the times by being flexible in its meeting structure, being inclusive of women, and encouraging younger generations.
Mr Beesley said 15 percent of its members are aged under 30, “which bodes well for the Club’s future.”
To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the Gloucester Rotary will hold a dinner on 17 May at the Gloucester Golf Club, bringing together Rotarians past and present.
and
the Upper Hunter.
The Mine Reuse Project also identified existing discoveries from the reprocessing of waste and tailings.
This includes gold from historic tailings at the Mineral Hill mine in the Central West, and tin from Ardlethan mine site in the Riverina.
The Mine Reuse Project was
undertaken in collaboration between the Geological Survey of NSW with the Sustainable Minerals Institute at The University of Queensland and Geoscience Australia.
Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said, “The release of this data reinforces that NSW really is the state to be for explorers looking to find the next big critical
minerals project.
“As key ingredients in our solar panels, wind turbines, EVs and batteries, critical minerals and high-tech metals are integral to our economic future.
“We know how important mining is to communities across the state.
“More exploration means more jobs and more investment in regional NSW.”
q A map of the sampled sites. Image: supplied.
q Sampling uncovered elevated concentrations of 11 critical minerals and high-tech metals at mining sites.
near Broken Hill,
Stratford in
Countback process dates given
THE countback process to fill the Councillor vacancy on MidCoast Council is now underway by the NSW Electoral Commission.
The vacancy was created by the resignation of Dheera Smith, who stepped down due to health reasons last month.
Instead of holding a byelection (estimated at around $700,000), a countback process will be undertaken, as agreed when the current Council was formed.
This method applies to any Councillor departures within the first 18 months of the term.
Officials will contact any unelected candidates from the last election who may still be eligible.
Those interested must submit a formal application to be considered.
The countback will be based on the original election votes, taking into account the preferences voters selected at that time.
Key dates for the countback:
• Thursday, 15 May –Candidate applications close, and the electoral roll will be finalised.
• Tuesday, 20 May –Eligible candidates will be officially declared.
• Wednesday, 21 May – The original votes will be recounted using voters’ preferences, and the results will be announced.
Voters abandoning the major parties in Lyne
By John WATTS
“OVER the past 40 years the share of votes going to independents and minor parties has risen in both state and federal elections,” the Australia Institute stated in a research article in October 2024.
“In the 1980 federal election, the combined primary votes for minor parties and independents accounted for only eight percent.”
At the recent Federal election, about 66 percent of voting Australians gave their first preference vote to Labor or the Coalition, with the rest going to minor parties and independents.
An analysis of figures published by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) shows that the trend of voters moving away from the major
parties has been particularly evident in the seat of Lyne.
In the 2013 election, where the Tony Abbott-led Coalition defeated the Kevin Rudd-led Labor Government, 74.47 percent of the votes in Lyne went to the National and Labor parties.
In that election the National Party secured 53.19 percent of the first preference votes, with Labor receiving 21.28 percent.
In the 2016 election in Lyne the National Party first preference vote fell to 49.57 percent, while the Labor vote increased to 26.56 percent, making a total of 76.13 percent for those two parties.
Since 2016 however the first preference votes for the Nationals and Labor in Lyne have fallen significantly, with their combined vote in 2022 being 64.98 percent.
The trend away from
the major parties in Lyne continued in the recent Federal election, with their combined vote reaching 56.88 percent, which is well below the national average.
Since 2013 the first
preference vote for the National Party in Lyne has, according to AEC counting on the Tuesday after the election, fallen by just under 16 percent.
The party’s 2025 candidate, Alison Penfold,
received 37.20 percent percent of first preference votes, which meant that she needed to rely upon a significant flow of preferences from minor parties such as Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, the Trumpet of Patriots, the Libertarians and others to be elected as the Member for Lyne.
The Labor first preference vote in 2025 was 19.68 percent.
Mixed stats for homelessness in Hunter
THE Hunter has had mixed results in the 2025 Street Count, the NSW Government’s sixth annual count of people sleeping rough.
Counts of homeless people sleeping rough on a single evening were completed in local
government areas across the state between 4 February and 26 February 2025.
Half of the counts took place in the evening, scheduled between 10:00pm and 3:00am, with the remaining half occurring in the morning between 3:30am and 9am.
More than 370 local organisations partnered with Homes NSW to
complete the count in 415 towns and suburbs across 77 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in NSW. The MidCoast LGA recorded the fifth largest total decrease in the number of people sleeping rough compared to 2024, from 49 to 27.
In 2020, just two people were recorded sleeping rough across the LGA.
A slight increase was
STRATFORD RENEWABLE ENERGY HUB
CURRENT STATUS
Yancoal is progressing feasibility for the Stratford Renewable Energy Hub (SREH) and is continuing with the relevant studies to support State and Federal environmental approval applications.
On 19 June 2024, the NSW Government declared the SREH as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI) given its potential significance to the NSW economy by helping to maintain critical energy security.
The Project would also provide direct and ongoing economic and social benefits to the Gloucester region, including full-time jobs during construction and operation.
recorded from 2024 to 2025 in Dungog Shire, from five to seven.
In Port Stephens 23 people were recorded sleeping rough in 2024, which increased to 40 in 2025.
Newcastle experienced a drop from 49 to 42.
In total, 2,192 people were recorded as sleeping rough across the state.
Following the CSSI declaration, Yancoal prepared an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the SREH, which was placed on public exhibition by the New South Wales Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure during October 2024. During this period, government agencies, the local council, organisations and members of the public were invited to provide submissions on the EIS. A total of 111 submissions on the Project were received during the public exhibition period.
In response to submissions received, Yancoal has prepared and lodged a Submissions Report, which provides:
• An analysis of feedback received;
• A summary of actions taken since EIS lodgement, including further engagement activities, technical assessments, and proposed refinements; and
• Responses to the key issues raised, and an updated evaluation of the Project.
While the lodgement of the Submissions Report was delayed, this was due to the additional time required to address detailed feedback from NSW Government agencies, which required input from technical specialists.
For the latest updates on the SREH, visit stratfordrenewableenergyhub.com.au. This website is updated regularly and contains detailed information about the Project, including its current status, a Project video, and Frequently Asked Questions.
To stay informed about site activities, and to access the latest newsletters for both the Stratford and Duralie sites, visit the Stratford and Duralie Coal webpages at yancoal.com.au/our-sites/stratford and yancoal.com.au/our-sites/duralie.
Show why you 'heart' the BWNG
By Joshua GILBERT
FOR over 35 years, the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group (BWNG) has supported Gloucester residents.
This year’s Neighbourhood Centre Week, which runs until 18 May, is giving BWNG the chance to stop and reflect on the nationwide theme, “Ripples of Change”.
“Every action, no matter how small, has the power to create a ripple effect — spreading kindness, sparking ideas, and strengthening communities,” the Neighbourhood Centre Week website states.
“Together, we can turn little ripples into big waves of change.”
Locally, the BWNG is encouraging residents to get behind their “I heart BWNG because…” campaign.
“We provide emergency relief, training courses, youth and family programs, inhome aged care and disability support,” Anna Burley, Chief Executive Officer, told News Of The Area.
“We also host outreach services which would otherwise not be available in Gloucester, including Legal Aid and Financial Counselling services,” she said.
In addition to these services, BWNG is ensuring its impact is felt locally.
“Last financial year we
Gloucester’s ‘King of Compost’
By John WATTS
THE role that compost plays in providing humans with healthy and nutritious food is often overlooked, but International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) has highlighted its vital place in the food chain.
ICAW was celebrated between 4-10 May.
According to the Centre for Organic Research & Education (CORE), the week of activities, events and publicity was “to improve awareness of the importance of compost, a valuable organic resource and to promote compost use, knowledge and products”.
“We can compost to help scrap carbon pollution by avoiding landfilling organic materials and helping to build healthier soils.”
ICAW Australia is an initiative of CORE which is a not-for-profit organisation conducting year-round organic research, education and awareness activities.
The importance of composting is well-known to Dr Steve Robinson who is a founding member of Gloucester's community garden located in the District
Park opposite the swimming pool.
Steve, who other members of the community garden have dubbed “the King of Compost”, has been creating compost on site since the garden was first established.
The results of Steve’s
efforts are demonstrated by the large number of thriving vegetable plants and fruit trees being grown in his compost.
Steve uses a four-compost bin system.
“The idea is that you move the material being composted from one bin to an empty one
injected $3.2 million in employment into the local economy, provided $100,000 of hardship assistance and emergency food relief and spent almost $600,000 with local businesses,” Ms Burley said.
The “I heart BWNG because…” campaign encourages community members to write letters that tell BWNG in their own words what their services mean to them.
Those letters will be on show at the new BWNG shop front at 29 Denison Street, which is being retro-fitted to make services available to community members closer to the main street.
which introduces air into the mixture which, with water, is a big part of the process,” he said.
“We get half a dozen bucket loads of coffee grounds from the Common, and wood shavings from Wayne Mavin’s heritage joinery business, and grass cuttings and leaves from
the nearby Council Olympic pool
“It is important to have a mix of wood brown and green material, so the temperature of the compost goes up to 60 degrees, which kills the weeds.”
The produce from the garden is available for free
from the Share Shop, and volunteers who maintain the garden get together every Tuesday between 8am and 10am.
New members, particularly anyone wanting to learn more about composting, are always welcome.
q Jeanette Spagnolo and Amber Galvin with the ‘I heart BWNG because…’ campaign letters. Photo: supplied.
q Steve Robinson, aka the “King of Compost”.
q Volunteers at the Gloucester Community Garden.
'Men keep killing us': nationwide rallies plea for help
By Samantha LOCK, Jack GRAMENZ and Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
TENS of thousands of men, women and children have marched across Australian capital cities and regional towns calling for determined action to end gendered and sexual violence.
Advocates say the issue was not properly addressed during the federal election campaign, with funding pledges "barely even hitting the sides".
The No More: National Rally Against Violence saw attendees gather in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart and regional centres in between.
Founder of support organisation What Were You Wearing, Sarah Williams, called for more preventative action.
"We need to be able to stop it before it starts," she told a two-thousandstrong crowd on the steps of Parliament House in Melbourne on Saturday.
"We need more funding for primary prevention, more trauma-informed response training for police, increased crisis housing, bail law reform and uniform consent laws," she later told AAP.
Similar rallies played out almost simultaneously in every state capital as well as several regional cities and towns.
Hundreds met in Sydney's Hyde Park while the regional centres of Newcastle and Wollongong saw a similar turnout, including the family and friends of Mackenzie Anderson, a young mother who was stabbed 78 times and brutally murdered by her former partner in 2022.
Hundreds more rallied in Brisbane, carrying signs reading "We weren't asking for it" and "Weak laws cost lives."
Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, who accused ex-colleague Bruce Lehrmann of raping her at Parliament House, was also at the rally with a sign reading: "25 women killed and still not an election issue."
In the lead-up to the rallies, organisers urged more men to attend and take accountability over violence against women.
"Men listen to men... we need more male role models out there," Ms Williams said.
Consent and healthy relationship education should be expanded to more schools with additional funding, and community sporting clubs and major
codes could also play a role in reaching different generations, she said.
A total of 128 women have been killed since January 1 last year, according to the Australian Femicide Watch website.
Its founder Sherele Moody read aloud the names of the women as images of their faces were laid before Melbourne's Parliament steps.
"We're here because men keep killing us," she said.
"Violence against women is primarily a male problem... it's not a women's problem to solve but it's women who are the ones who do the work."
Advocates say a government-run national domestic violence register is desperately needed to track the issue.
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, marked each May, is an opportunity to raise community awareness of the impacts of violence and the support available to those affected.
The rallies also called for fully funded frontline domestic violence services, expanded crisis accommodation and increased funding for primary prevention programs.
Mandatory traumainformed training for all first responders should also be rolled out, organisers said.
The re-elected Labor government previously promised to prevent domestic violence perpetrators from abusing tax and superannuation systems.
It has also pledged to
COST OF LIVING ASSISTANCE
invest more funding to stop high-risk perpetrators through electronic monitoring.
But Ms Moody said ministers and leaders needed to sit down with frontline services to figure out what works.
"All the safety nets have holes in them and the funding barely even hits the
q Rallies around the country have demanded effective action to stop violence against women and girls. Photo: Darren England/AAP PHOTOS
Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
EUROVISION: ACCESS ALL AREAS
SBS, 7.30pm
Kelis’ “Milkshake” might bring all the boys to her yard, but there’s a new dairy delight on the block this year, with Australia’s infectious Eurovision Song Contest entry “Milkshake Man” already shimmying its way up charts all around the world. Manjimup-raised popstar Go-Jo is set to burst onto the stage in Switzerland, opening the show for semi-final 2, live at 5am (AEST). The party continues at 7.30pm, when commentators Courtney Act and Tony Armstrong (both pictured) showcase Wednesday’s first semi-final at a reasonable hour for those of us who prefer a sleep-in.
FRIDAY,
May 16
SATURDAY
CALL THE MIDWIFE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
This popular period drama follows a group of midwives and nuns working in the East End of London – initially set in the late 1950s, the series has now stretched into the 1960s and 1970s. Delving into the happenings of the neighbourhood of Poplar, it weaves historical events into the narrative while focusing on the personal lives of the sisters and the social and medical advancements of the time. Series 13 is set in 1969. Tonight’s double episode sees Reggie (Daniel Laurie) back home and helping Fred (Cliff Parisi, pictured) in the garden, while Violet (Annabelle Apsion) runs for mayor. Then, everyone is excited about the moon landing and the Nonnatus House television set is in high demand.
SUNDAY MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA
TEN, 7pm
Usually when plating up dishes for the MasterChef judges, a cracked crispbread, smouldering s’more or bubbling broth would be cause for concern elimination challenge, it’s the name of the game. Judges Jean-Christophe Novelli, Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow (pictured) and Sofia Levin want to see the bottom two teams from the French service challenge showcase their very best tableside theatre tricks. Novelli gets things started with a fiery crêpes suzette demonstration, Allen reveals his saltbaked mud crab and Yeow presents her intricate and elegant thousand-cut tofu lily. With 75 minutes and an open pantry, the contestants race to create their own showstoppers – or risk going home.
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Sherwood. (Final, Mlv) The Sparrows are on the warpath.
9.30 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.05 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program.
10.35 Big Boys. (Mls, R)
11.05 ABC Late News.
11.20 Father Brown. (PGa, R)
12.05 Mayfair Witches. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Eurovision: Access All Areas. (M) Catch all the behind-the-scenes action.
10.00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes: Seahouses – Les Ferdinand. (PGa, R)
11.10 Atlantic Crossing. (PGal, R) 12.15 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R)
2.05 The Head. (Malv, R)
3.40 Incredible Homes. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 10. Sydney v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 House Of Wellness. (PGl, R) Looks at baby names and body language.
12.45 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv) Joey is stabbed while in protective custody.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 11. Canterbury Bulldogs v Sydney Roosters.
9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.
10.45 MOVIE: Into The Blue. (2005, Mdlv, R) A group of divers finds illegal cargo. Paul Walker.
12.50 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (R)
1.20 Explore: Well Bread. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. (PG) A couple search for a house. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists Mel Tracina, Lloyd Langford and Emma Holland join the panel. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Celebrities include Keira Knightley. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
MONDAY, May 19
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 The Crystal Maze. 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 Merlin. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
SBS World News.
Stockholm With Michael Portillo. (Premiere)
8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Albania And The Adriatic. (PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Classified. (Mlv)
11.35 Don’t Leave Me. (Malv, R) 1.35 Incredible Homes. (R) 3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning
Programs. 6.55 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 8.45
Viajeros. (2022, PG, Spanish) 10.20 Finding Your Feet. (2017, M) 12.25pm Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 2.00 The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. (2008) 3.55 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 5.40 Courted. (2015, PG, French) 7.30 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 9.40 Prison 77. (2022, MA15+, Spanish) Midnight Late Programs.
TUESDAY, May 20
3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Ml) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Living Black. (R)
Snow. (Malv) 12.00 The Lesson. (Mals, R) 2.25 Incredible Homes. (R) 4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.50 Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) The farmers take the new ladies on a solo date. 9.05 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Mav) Owen makes a decision about his future. 10.05 Suits L.A. (M) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 Treadstone. (MA15+av) 1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
Harry’s Practice. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
7TWO (62)
Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7TWO
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.20 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 8.10 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 10.05 Unique Brothers. (2014, M, Italian) 11.55 Johnny Mnemonic. (1995, M) 1.45pm Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 3.35 Arthur And The Two Worlds War. (2010, PG) 5.30 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 7.30 T-34. (2018, M, Russian) 9.35 Pride And Glory. (2008, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.
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. Check
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
Antique China & Figurines, English Silver, Fountain Pens, Old Jewellery & Watches. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747
From the
Mayor’s desk
By CLAIRE PONTIN MidCoast Mayor
COUNCIL has released the draft Delivery Program 2025–2029 the Operational Plan for 2025–26, and the accompanying budget for public comment.
These documents guide
everything we do - from maintaining local roads and parks to investing in infrastructure and delivering community services. They outline the projects and priorities for the years ahead, as well as how they will be funded.
Our plans outline three main priorities – roads, financial sustainability and customer experience.
I know that roads are a priority for our community and along with Councillors and staff have worked hard to invest more funds into roads for the coming year.
While it won’t be enough to meet the challenges we face, expenses have been cut to deliver
a further $6.7 million funding for roads for 2025-26.
This brings the total roads funding to $68.47 million.
This covers both our maintenance and capital works projects.
The extra funds secured this year will be invested in key areas of increasing resealing, heavy patching and vegetation management, starting a drainage improvement program and renewing some line marking and guard rails on our higher risk roads.
Further improvements to our road network through the year will rely on extra funding from other
levels of government.
Council will also be investing $7.171 million in community assets and our main projects are listed in the documents on public exhibition.
This is your opportunity to have a say on our plans.
I encourage everyone to review the draft documents and provide feedback on Council’s website before the consultation period closes.
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank Councillor Dheera Smith, who recently retired from Council.
Dheera’s thoughtful and compassionate approach to
decision-making, along with her tireless advocacy for our community, has left a lasting impact.
She has been a strong voice on key issues and her presence around the Council table will be greatly missed.
We wish her all the best for the future and thank her sincerely for her service.
As always, I encourage you to stay engaged with the work we’re doing.
One way you can do that is by subscribing to the weekly newsletter News Wrap, which can be done through our website.
$10m for weed control and eradication
THE NSW Government will deliver $10 million to local councils to target high-risk weeds across the state to protect the state’s primary production and public land.
The NSW Government Weeds Action Program funds local councils, known as Local Control Authorities (LCA), to detect and respond quickly to incursions of new high-risk weeds.
The program focuses on prevention and early intervention to stop the spread of problem weeds by providing practical resources and on-ground support to ensure a proactive and coordinated response by LCAs.
The NSW Government’s program commissions LCAs to undertake services such as surveillance, and rapid response to prevent, eradicate or contain new infestations of priority weeds.
In addition, the program funds training for LCA biosecurity officers so they can effectively respond to biosecurity emergencies across NSW.
LCAs make applications for funding under the program and need to demonstrate they are focusing on high-risk weeds to gain approved funding.
This year the NSW Government has approved 92 funding applications from 86 LCAs.
High-risk weeds targeted by the NSW Government’s Weeds Action Program include:
• Parthenium weed causes allergies and respiratory issues in people, liver damage in livestock and outcompetes pastures and crops. The program works to keep NSW Parthenium weed free through collaborative action and surveillance programs.
• Rubber vine can invade pastures, waterways and natural areas, climbing up to 30 metres high. A major threat to grazing industries can cause livestock deaths. Found in Queensland, it could become a major weed in Western NSW.
• Tropical Soda Apple (TSA), an aggressive, prickly, perennial shrub, invades open and semi-shaded areas in pastures, along rivers and in forests. It reduces biodiversity, displaces native plants and disrupts ecological processes. Its foliage is unpalatable to livestock. TSA is found on the North Coast, Mid-Coast, Hunter and New England areas.
• Alligator weed has been found in the Namoi Valley, Griffith and Woomargama areas. It’s a significant risk to irrigation and poses a threat to the Murray Darling Basin.
• Harrisia cactus is a
highly invasive weed which poses a serious threat to agriculture and native ecosystems. It reduces pasture productivity, hinders livestock movement and outcompetes native plants. Harrisia cactus is found in the North West and Hunter regions.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said, “Weeds are a serious threat to our environment and economy, and our government is focused on investing this $10 million to empower LCAs who work with community groups and farmers to protect their lands and livestock.
“This investment helps communities tackle invasive weed species head-on by supporting local management efforts, improving detection of these weeds and then responding with know-how and strong coordination between
government agencies, councils and landholders.
“The Minns Government is committed to supporting our primary producers
and regional communities manage these high-risk weeds, so we keep our landscapes healthy and productive.”
Nominations open for Aboriginal reference group
ABORIGINAL community
members are invited to nominate for MidCoast Council’s Aboriginal Reference Group.
The reference group provides an opportunity for an Aboriginal voice to guide Council on strategic decisions that affect the Aboriginal community.
“The key focus of this group is to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people in the MidCoast region,” Council’s Manager of Libraries, Community and Cultural Services, Alex Mills said.
“Members will consult with the community and provide feedback to the community on the group's meeting outcomes.
“The reference group will also provide Council with advice and direction on cultural and language protocols.”
The committee will include Councillors, representatives of the Local Aboriginal Land Councils and the four Aboriginal working parties from Gloucester,
Great Lakes, Taree and Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest.
Council is seeking new Aboriginal community member representatives that may be:
- Elders or Traditional Owners
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people from the MidCoast.
- Aboriginal young people aged 18+
- Gathang language holders
The Aboriginal Reference Group will meet at least four times a year.
To find out more or to nominate visit Council’s website and follow the links.
Council's Aboriginal
Liaison Officer Keen Emerson will be available at following locations to assist community members with their applications:
- Tea Gardens Customer Service Point (245 Myall Street, Tea Gardens): Friday 23 May
- Gloucester Customer Service Point: Friday 30 May
This year ‘Neighbourhood Centre Week is making waves with the theme ‘Ripples of Change’!
Every action, no matter how small, has the power to create a ripple effect - spreading kindness, sparking ideas and strengthening communities. At Neighbourhood Centres across Australia we see it happen every day! From community projects to everyday conversations these ripples of change build momentum, shaping stronger, more connected communities. Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group - proudly creating ripples of positive change for the Gloucester community since 1989.
q Tropical Soda Apple. Photo: NSW DPI.
A NEW guide has been released which aims to strengthen NSW Government consultation practices with regional, rural and remote communities across the state.
The “Regional Communities Consultation Guide” outlines the Government’s approach to consulting with regional, rural and remote communities, including Aboriginal communities.
the Regional Communities (Consultation Standards) Act 2024 by Independent Member for Barwon, Roy Butler.
The release of the guide follows the introduction of
"Regional communities know what they need but feel disadvantaged by current
Free koala feed trees
MIDCOAST Council’s Koala Safe Spaces team will be at Mondrook Hall from 8am on Saturday May 17 handing out 2,500 free koala feed trees.
consultation processes, including a reliance on digital channels, or consultation conducted during harvest,” Mr Butler said.
“While not all projects will reflect every view, consultation should be done to give regional, rural and remote communities a fair chance to share their input, which is what this guide will now ensure.
regional engagement with Government consultations, including population sparsity, and digital disadvantages.
In a state first, this legislation enshrines that compliance with the guide is required for certain consultations, setting a clear standard that those affected by decisions should be involved in the decisionmaking process.
organisations including the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Local Government NSW, the Country Mayors Association, the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation and the Central NSW Joint Organisation.
Around 200 stakeholders also participated in eight regional listening sessions held in Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga, Nowra, Lismore, Port Macquarie, Newcastle, Narrabri and Bourke.
Experts will be on hand to provide planting and care advice.
Council’s Manager of Natural Systems, Gerard Tuckerman said that the collective efforts of
There will be up to 30 trees per household available until the stock runs out, with the event winding up by 12pm.
individual landholders can make an important impact on the future of koalas.
The Wild Koala Day activities are part of the Koala Safe Spaces program which is funded by the NSW Government.
"The guide will significantly reduce the risk of tick-the-box disingenuous consultation occurring or bad decisions being forced on vulnerable communities.”
The Member for Barwon worked with the Government to address the barriers which have historically faced
The guide is informed by in-depth stakeholder engagement across regional and rural communities, to ensure the priorities and expectations of regional, rural and remote communities are reflected.
This included direct engagement with peak
The guide will now be rolled out across agencies for immediate use and can be downloaded along with a detailed engagement summary at www. haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/ consultation-regionalcommunities.
Embedded batteries now accepted at recycling centres
MIDCOAST Council has expanded its Community Recycling Centre (CRC) Battery Collection Program, which now includes the collection of embedded batteries.
Embedded batteries, which are often difficult to remove without the use of tools, can now be recycled through participating CRCs across the MidCoast region.
• Bluetooth headphones
• Laptops or tablets with sealed battery compartments.
These types of batteries are commonly found in products such as:
• Electric toothbrushes
• Vapes and e-cigarettes
Croker signs again
Council encourages the community to take advantage of this program to responsibly dispose of their unwanted electronics and batteries.
While all Waste Management Centres accept CRC materials the new official sites funded by the NSW EPA are located at Taree, Tuncurry and Gloucester Waste Services Centres.
SPORTS
As part of this update, new signage and handling instructions will be rolled out at CRCs to ensure proper disposal practices.
“We ask that all members of the community adhere to these updated guidelines when visiting CRCs to drop off their embedded batteries and other recyclable materials,” Council said in a statement.
For further information on the program and to find the nearest CRC location, please visit the MidCoast Council website.
By Jack HIGH
By Jasper BRUCE, AAP
NEWCASTLE have re-signed Mat Croker to a two-year contract as they continue preparations for life without forward pack leader Leo Thompson.
Croker, 25, has played every game of a disappointing Knights NRL campaign so far and will now remain with the club through 2027.
The Nabiac product had been among a handful of Knights forwards without a deal for next season, when the club will lose talismanic prop Thompson to Canterbury.
Fellow middle forward options Adam Elliott and Jack Hetherington are both without deals and the Knights are yet to sign a prop of Thompson's ilk as his replacement.
Croker, typically used from the bench, had received interest from the English Super League before recommitting to the Knights.
"At his age and experience, the next three years of his career will be his best and we believe he will continue his development as a genuine NRL player," said head of recruitment Peter O'Sullivan.
Gloucester Ladies Bowls
LADIES Bowls from on the green 7th May 2025
We had 22 ladies playing social bowls on a very warm day
The winner of the Spider was Lorraine Ratcliffe
The Trophy for the most touchers donated by Suzanne Cross went to Patti West with six touchers being recorded
Bev Germon Bev Murray Kerrie Green and Judy Sheely represented our Club at the State carnival being held in our region over this week
Results of the social bowls played today are as follows
M Moore P Cox V Pritchard 20 G Dalmulder
S Cross D Redman17
J Everett N Relf J Kriss 19 C Wallace P West C Tull 9
C West J Ridgeway J Stevens 18 J Carson R Redman D Pritchard 11 K Heininger H Banks 18 S Bryant J Hurworth 13
The first round of the Thelma Bolton drawn Pairs will be played next Wednesday 14th May if your not sure when you are playing please check the draw on the board or contact one of the Match committee
q Newcastle forward Mat Croker has extended his time at the NRL club through 2027. Photo: James Gourley/AAP
Gloucester Men's Bowls Report
By George WISEMANTEL
THRITY two players fronted on Thursday for the first week of the blind draw competition which will be contested over eight weeks with the winners of the day receiving five points each and all other winning teams scoring three points each with the losing players receiving one point and with good fields each week every player has a chance to be in the final placings.
George Wisemantel, Col Beattie (excelling) Basil Schneider (returning from the spelling paddock) def Stephen Hurworth, Adrian Rovere, Paul Sheridan 3211 (20+21) Jeff Kelly, Rob Cushway (improving every week) def Allen Rose, Jody Thompson 27-14 (19+13) Tony Tersteeg, Don Mehieloff, Nico Duynhoven (great to see returning)) def Mark Tull, Alex Laurie, Max Stevens 2311 (18+12) Kevin Everett, Ben Philpott, Ian Tull def Robert Hayes, Craig Battam, Harry Cox 23-16 (18+7) Neville Atkins, Rob Gibson def Bruce Wilson, Ken Bryant 21-9 (16 +12) Mark Groves, Steve Kriss, Paul Young def Col Hebblewhite, Garry Moss, Michael Way 22-16 (16+6)
The second round of the Valley Motors sponsored mixed pairs championships were contested on Saturday 10 May which resulted in some cliffhanger games with Mike and Judy Sheely coming
from 23-21 down with one end to play then scored three shots to def Adam and Louise Clements on the last bowl 24-23, Stephen and Joy Hurworth def Stephen Higgins and Jenny Stevens 26-17, Kevin and Jill Everett avoided playing an extra end by winning with the last bowl 27-23 against Adrian Rovere and Helen Banks, Jason Cassidy and Patty West def Steve and Julie Kriss 3113, Neville Atkins and Marg Moore (playing her first mixed championship) def Garry Moss and Di Pritchard 23-16, Kevin Burley and Bev Germon def John and Anne Andrews (another debutante) 22-16
Sunday the 11 May the quarter finals of the Valley Motors sponsored mixed pairs were contested in atrocious weather conditions with Kevin Burley and Bev Germon only playing nine ends when Nigell Johns and Ruth Redman conceded defeat with the score at 244, Mike and Judy Sheely were ahead 32-18 when Aaron Kelly and Jill Carson also conceded defeat with two ends to play but the remaining two games went down to the wire with Stephen and Joy Hurworth def Kevin and Jill Everett 18-17 and Jason Casidy and Patty West had to play the extra end after being locked at 19 all on end twenty one against Neville Atkins and Marg Moore when Jason
Sports Stars
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
- Winner of the Singles in the Blind Bowls B1 division at the 2024 National Championships;
- Silver Medal in the Pairs of the Blind Bowls B1 competition at the 2024 National Championships.
“Jim also participated at club level in Men’s Championships and social bowls regularly in 2024,” said Gloucester Sports Committee’s Lorraine Forbes.
“He couldn’t have achieved any of these results
Gloucester Scorpions Results
By Trudy SCHULTZ
GLOUCESTER Valley
Landscape Supplies Mini Roos
Teams: Australia Post Gloucester, Batter & Dough, CalCo Surveyors
Our youngest stars are improving each week –showing strong teamwork, passing, and a growing confidence with the ball. It’s a joy to watch them shine!
Kelly + Partners
Chartered AccountantsDivision 3
Two fantastic games this round:
• Ollies Service Centre & The Common: Playing well together, building teamwork and sharpening ball skills.
• Gloucester Landscapes & Level Electrical: Impressive teamwork and great passing on display –keep it up!
IGA Loveys Grocers –Division 2
• Chilli Air & Electrical vs Accommodation
Gloucester: A close and exciting match with Chilli Air just edging ahead, 4–3, thanks to teamwork and great communication.
• Gloucester Landscapes vs Ray White Gloucester:
and Patty collected one shot in the water for victory
The Semi Final games will be between Stephen and Joy Hurworth against Jason Cassidy and Patty West and Kevin Burley and Bev Germon
Wallabies and as the HighPerformance Director for Equestrian Australia.
“Unfortunately, Chris was unable to attend in person, but did appear via video link to provide some inspiring words and encouragement for our young athletes,” Lorraine said.
“Many thanks to Chris for filling in at the last minute when our scheduled guest speaker was unable to attend.”
Brian Beesley took the helm as MC and kept the audience entertained throughout the evening.
A competitive game with lots of heart – Gloucester Landscapes took the win 8–1, but both sides played hard and with spirit.
Gloss-ter Carwash –Division 1
A fast-paced, highenergy match between Batter & Dough and Australia Post Gloucester.
Even short on players, Batter & Dough showed incredible determination and teamwork to claim the win 5–2!
Well done to all players, coaches, families, and supporters. Rain or shine, the Gloucester soccer community keeps showing up!
Here’s to more great football ahead!
Turner Freeman Gloucester Scorpions Weekend Wrap
U11s, U13s & Men’s Senior League
U11s – A Triumphant Return
After weeks of washed-out fixtures, the Gloucester U11s returned to the field full of energy and determination, and their performance did not disappoint. From the opening whistle, the
take on Mike and Judy Sheely but with the mixed travelling bowlers heading to Harrington next weekend games may be rescheduled
The draw is on the board for the Open Novice
Potts in acknowledgement of their sportsmanship and effort in their chosen sports throughout 2024.
Also presented on the night were certificates in recognition of the continued involvement of those Gloucester sportspersons who are aged 75-plus.
“This year those who were acknowledged are Jill Everett (Bowls) and Judy Hopkins (Croquet),” Lorraine said.
Other winners on the
young Scorpions displayed sharp passing, excellent teamwork, and a level of resilience beyond their years—especially when faced with some rough opposition tactics.
The highlight of the match came when Aliyah broke through and scored her first-ever goal, sending her teammates and supporters into rapturous celebration. Will delivered a brilliant hat-trick and selflessly set up Olsen, who finished with a superb strike of his own.
Defensively, Max, James, and Oscar held firm under pressure, while Brock gave a calm and commanding performance in goal. It was a fantastic all-round showing that reflected the team’s growth and spirit.
U13s – Dominant Display at Boronia Park
The Gloucester U13 Scorpions also returned to action in Round 5, taking on the Great Lakes Vikings under sunny skies at Boronia Park. Despite limited training in recent weeks, the team quickly found rhythm and cohesion, improving steadily as the match progressed.
Singles with the first round commencing on 1 June 2025
Gloucester’s dominance was clear, and they came away with a resounding 8–1 victory. The result was a testament to the players’ adaptability, teamwork, and commitment. With form like this, the U13s are shaping up for a strong season ahead.
Men’s Senior League – Close Match Ends in Heartbreak
Meanwhile, the Gloucester Men’s Senior side had their match relocated to Wingham due to wet conditions at home. Returning from a monthlong break, the Scorps twice took the lead against the Lansdowne Lions, but ultimately fell 3–2 in a hardfought contest.
Brad Piwowarski opened the scoring with a beautifully placed curved strike, before debutant Zac Fletcher made a strong impression across the pitch. Jake Coombes added a goal of his own to restore Gloucester’s lead after halftime. However, a late penalty conceded by the Scorps allowed Lansdowne to steal the win in the final minutes.
A huge congratulations to Jim Gretch and Rob Heininger winning gold in the Australian Blind Bowlers Association Championships event in Perth recently and Jim also for taking out the Gloucester Sports Star of the year award hosted by the Sports Committee on Saturday night
night were:
Junior: Jarrah Baker (Hockey)
Senior: Charlotte Maslen (Rugby Union)
Veteran: Neville Atkins (Bowls)
Junior Team: Barrington
Public School PSSA Netball Team
Senior Team: Gloucester Netball 17 Years State Team
Coach: Cathy Beard (Barrington Public School Netball Team)
Match Official: Tonia
Channon (Netball) Club Administrator: Kate Atkins (Basketball)
Event of the Year: Netball Crazy Hair and Sock Day for Cancer Research
Para Athlete: Jim Grech (Bowls)
The Gloucester Sports Committee wishes to thank Gloucester Community Shop and Gloucester Rotary Club for their ongoing sponsorship and the sponsors of each award category.
without the support of Rob Heininger who acts as his guide/director for all events.
“Jim was unable to attend the presentation as he has been competing in the Blind Bowls National Championships in Western Australia where he was named the Men’s Singles Gold Medal winner.
“Congratulations Jim!”
Guest speaker for the evening was former Gloucester local Chris Webb, who provided the audience with an insight into his time as General Manager of the
Alec (Barney) McInnes was acknowledged posthumously as a “Local Legend” for his involvement in Gloucester sport over many years.
Barney’s grandson, Nathan, accepted the award on behalf of his grandfather, with all the family invited to the floor for a photo.
Encouragement Award medals were presented to Elizabeth Charlier, Josh Compton, Matthew Rozynski, Oliver Rentell, Olivia Lewis, Kalahni McEvoy, Chay Harris, Hudson Honeyman, Jacob Grant, Oscar Campbell, Lochlan Martin and Tayleigha
q Steve Hurworth (Gloucester Bowling Club) accepting the Sport Star of the Year award on behalf of Jim Grech from Ollie Rinkin.
q The McInnes family accepting Barney's Local Legend award.