Gloucester District News Of The Area 22 APRIL 2026
GLOUCESTER DISTRICT Of The Area News
By Kim TEOH
CEDRIC Salter, 88, has been hooked on country music since the age of five, when his dad would play it on the radio and his mum would sing along.
After decades working to grow the genre’s popularity in regional NSW, “Ced” was inducted to the Australian Country Music Stars of Fame in December 2025.
Started in 1993 by long-term entertainer Phil Mahoney, the Music Stars of Fame platform pays tribute to Australian country music performers, and promoters who have supported the development of other
TRAIN
no firm timeline on Regional Rail fleet
By John WATTS
q Cedric Salter celebrates his induction into the Australian Country Music Stars of Fame with Gloucester & District Country Music Club President Gail Ellis.
John WATTS 0438 346 544 watts@newsofthearea.com.au
MARGERY Phair has lived a life dedicated to community service.
Born in 1936, she turns 90 on 23 April.
Working through the day she attended training in Macquarie Place, Sydney in an old ratinfested office block.
Her daughter Carolyn was born in 1964 and son Nigel was born in 1967.
liaise with Guide Leaders in the South Pacific to exchange ideas.
This was possible, prior to the internet, via a satellite connection she accessed at the University of Sydney for one hour a month.
Margery was also responsible for organising transport for State musters and the International Jamboree, ironically termed The Meeting of the Waters, held at Cataract Scout Camp in 1988.
needs which have a positive impact on others.”
In 1985 Margery decided to formalise her training qualifications and undertook a Diploma of Adult Education at Sydney College of Advanced Education.
“Our graduation ceremony was held at the Opera House,” Margery said.
She then expanded her activities to include the casual teaching of young deaf adults at TAFE for two years.
When Carolyn was seven, she joined Brownies at the North Epping Guide Unit.
“It became a logistical nightmare when we only had two-way radios for communication,” she said.
Margery and Bill enjoyed overseas trips and spent time researching family history from original sources both in the UK and the Mitchell Library.
They also had a hobby farm at Wootton where they bred cattle.
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Since the age of eleven Margery has enjoyed a long association with the Guiding movement (Girl Guides and Girl Scouts).
“I even met Lady Baden-Powell (one of the founders of the Guiding movement) when she visited Parramatta Park in 1947,” recalled Margery.
“There were hundreds of Guides lined up in rows to be inspected by her.”
Margery was drawn to the movement because it developed her competence and confidence through successful completion of challenges in a sociable, supportive community.
As a teenager, she was identified as having leadership qualities and enlisted into Cadet Leadership Training.
“You could hear the rats scurrying around as soon as you opened the door,” Margery said.
She visited other Guide Units and helped Guides to complete their challenges.
At age 18 in 1954 she met Bill Phair, an apprentice electrician and a National Serviceman, at a dance.
They married in 1957 at St Luke’s Church, Liverpool.
Margery continued working after she married as she was secretary to the CEO of an industrial perfumery company.
Had she worked for a bank or an insurance firm, she would have been required to resign.
“We would go home with our clothes perfumed with whatever perfume was produced that day,” she said.
Margery joined the Parent Association and became a Guide Leader.
She was then encouraged to undertake a Train the Trainer course.
The training took a year to complete, and she travelled all over the state.
“Guiding was big in those days. Country towns all over the state had Guide groups,” said Margery.
“I even travelled to Melbourne for training.
“A group of us attended the course wearing our uniforms and we were picked up in a stretch limo.”
Margery was District Commissioner for North Epping for five years and Division Commissioner for Pennant Division for another five.
One of her tasks was to
“It was a huge area and the rain pelted down.
“Buses became bogged but thanks to a team effort and the local Scout Leader’s help we got through.
“I couldn’t have done what I did without the support of Bill because I was often required to travel all over the state.”
Bill said the couple was fortunate to be able to afford to volunteer as they did.
“These days a twoincome family is almost a necessity,” he said.
In recognition of her service to the Guide movement, Margery was awarded the prestigious Wattle Award, for “providing support for others beyond their primary role and by identifying and fulfilling
80-plus years of country music
FROM Page 1
radio, hosting a show called “Lil’ Bit Country” for more than five years.
When Bill retired in 1997, they bought a property at Saw Pit Lane, built another house and bred cattle more intensively.
Margery then joined Gloucester CWA where she volunteered in her new community.
In the 29 years she has been a member of the CWA, Margery has held several positions including President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Ag and Environment Officer and Publicity Officer.
She also joined the Gloucester U3A where she facilitated the Third Thursday Book Club for thirteen years.
Margery still participates in U3A activities and attends weekly ukulele sessions. artists.
Ced has judged talent quests in Kempsey, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Gloucester, Morpeth, Dungog and other regions and enjoyed an extended stint on local community
He is also a Life Member of the Gloucester & District Country Music Club, formed in 1981.
Ced joined the club in 1983 and soon became its publicity officer.
He was appointed Vice President in 1984
and became Club President in 1992, a position which he held for over 20 years.
When Gail Ellis took over as President in 2024, he gave her his full backing.
“I’ve never been a performer but an organiser, working with a very good committee,” he said.
“They were always ready to lend a hand so we should continue this way.”
The Club meets the first Sunday of the month at Club Gloucester.
Entry fee is $5 and raffles, food and home made jams are sold to raise funds for the community.
“Over the years, the Club has raised money for school kids to join school excursions and interstate sports events, the Westpac Helicopter Rescue Service, Girl Guides, cancer support and families in need,” Club president Gail said.
q Simeon Beckett SC, Governor-General Sam Mostyn, Margery’s granddaughter Alison Phair and Margery in Canberra.
By Sis HIGGINS
A NEW wave of internal migration is reshaping regional Australia, with coastal communities from Port Stephens through to the Mid North Coast continuing to attract strong interest from city dwellers.
While Queensland’s Sunshine Coast remains the top destination nationally, the NSW corridor spanning Port Stephens, the MidCoast, Port Macquarie, Nambucca and Coffs Harbour is maintaining a steady migration trend.
The latest Regional Movers Index, delivered by the Commonwealth Bank and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), shows people are still leaving capital cities in significant numbers, even as volumes ease slightly compared to last year.
Regional migration surge continues along NSW coast Upgrade to Telstra mobile base station
is
that
The Sunshine Coast and Greater Geelong led net internal migration, followed by the Fraser Coast, Lake Macquarie and Moorabool.
RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said the pattern of movement is evolving, with more people exploring new regional locations.
“We are seeing a trend of capital-city dwellers still choosing popular locations, but regional-to-regional movers looking elsewhere,” she said.
“What hasn’t declined is interest in a regional move.
“Capital-to-region migration remains robust, recording the second highest migration figures since the end of the pandemic.”
The Mid North Coast has become a standout region, with Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour consistently
Upgrade works commenced on site on Monday 20 April and will continue for a period of six days, with temporary disruptions to mobile services.
During these works, the site needs to be switched off for periods of up to 10 hours.
Telstra Regional General Manager Michael Marom said, “As data use over our mobile network continues to grow, adding extra 4G/5G capacity to our mobile
ranking among the most popular destinations for internal movers.
These areas offer a combination of coastal lifestyle, relative housing affordability and access to essential services, making them attractive to families, retirees and increasingly, remote workers.
Port Stephens and the MidCoast local government area are also seeing sustained migration gains, driven by proximity to larger centres like Newcastle while still offering a slower pace of life.
The Nambucca Valley is also benefiting from a spillover effect as buyers and renters look beyond more competitive markets.
The report highlights that internal migration is no longer just a pandemic-driven trend, but part of a longer-
site in the area will help deliver faster downloads, smoother streaming and less congestion for customers.
“While disruption is required while the upgrade is underway, we’ll only be switching off the site when we need to and will have it back online and working
term structural shift in how and where Australians choose to live.
Capital-to-regional migration accounted for 11.6 per cent of all relocations between local government areas and continues to outpace movement in the opposite direction.
Sydney and Melbourne remain the primary contributors to this shift, accounting for the majority of people relocating to regional areas.
Commonwealth Bank of Australia Regional and Agribusiness Banking Executive General Manager Kylie Allen said the findings reinforce the need for continued investment in regional communities.
“That shift brings real opportunity and reinforces the need for coordinated
planning around housing and investment in infrastructure so regions can sustain momentum and support growing communities,” she said.
With around a quarter of first home buyers now purchasing in regional or remote areas, demand is
better than ever as quickly as possible.”
Telstra mobile customers should have received texts advising of the upcoming work.
These works will not impact landline services, NBN, Satellite internet services, or mobile coverage
from other providers.
Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically connect to another mobile network if available for connection to emergency services.
Telstra customers can continue to make calls and
expected to remain strong. However, the continued influx is placing pressure on housing, infrastructure and services, leaving councils across the region balancing growth with the need to preserve the lifestyle that continues to draw people in.
send texts during disruption to mobile services by switching on Wi-Fi Calling. This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to make and receive mobile calls while connected to WiFi.
TELSTRA
upgrading its mobile base station
services Gloucester this week.
q Port Macquarie’s Breakwall. Photo: @port. macquarie.01
Imagination comes alive in ‘Kids’ Drama’ debut
TRAIN TIMETABLE
verifications on the NSW and Australian rail networks,” said NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Roger Weeks.
When complete, the Regional Rail fleet will consist of 29 new trains, featuring 117 carriages.
Ten long regional and nine short regional trains will replace the current XPT and XPLORER services, and 10 regional intercity trains will replace most of the current Endeavour fleet.
According to a Transport for
NSW project update on 8 April, the new Regional Rail fleet is continuing to arrive, with ten trains now in Australia.
“All long regional trains are manufactured, half of the short regional trains are manufactured, and production is underway on every remaining carriage,” the update read.
“Testing is also progressing with two trains undertaking intensive testing across electrified and non-electrified networks, trialling the bi-mode capability using both overhead
Haynes
By John WATTS
THE depth of young acting talent in Gloucester was showcased when the Arts Gloucester Kids’ Drama class performed their first play before an appreciative audience at the CITZ.
Arts Gloucester has been running drama classes for primary students since 2025, beginning with eight children from year 3 to year 5.
Success breeds success, and 2026 first term’s classes attracted fifteen enthusiastic students, including year 6 students for the first time.
The play the children worked on this term was
electric and diesel power – an Australian first for passenger rail.”
In the meantime, following a recent upgrade of the existing XPT fleet, Sydney to Grafton train services will resume from Tuesday, 28 April at 11.47am, while return services from Grafton to Sydney kick off 29 April with the 05.15am service.
“Until then Gloucester continues to be serviced by the two other North Coast XPT services – to and from Brisbane and Casino with four daily services arriving/departing at Gloucester,” said Mr Weeks.
titled “Irene’s Incredible Illucinations”, which was a slightly modified version of Alan Ayckbourn’s 1969 play, “Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations”.
The play revolves around Irene’s parents.
Worried about their daughter’s mental state, they take her to see a doctor because her thoughts are manifesting into reality, and throughout the play her imagined adventures are acted out.
The classes have been run weekly at the Tennis Club, but it was thought it would be fun for the students and the parents to have them perform before a live audience.
The students took part in a whole-day workshop before
performing in front of parents and friends in the evening. The classes were coordinated by Wendy Buswell and Charlie Lethbridge, who were joined by Mo Hjorth and Joe Hogan.
“I’ve worked with the kids from the start of the term, and we spent a whole day workshopping the play before the performance in the evening,” said Mo.
“Everything developed beautifully and their acting was superb.
“The children were so focused and confident and all their hard work paid off.”
Primary Drama classes will be continuing in term two, and the details will be on the Arts Gloucester website.
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q Young actors Fern, Kit, Cassandra and Elsie on stage. Photo: supplied.
q Artist’s impression of the new Regional Rail fleet. Photo: TfNSW.
Farmers hit hard by food waste
By John KIDMAN, AAP
AUSTRALIAN fruit and vegetable growers are missing out on the sale of up to a million tonnes of produce annually that never makes it to market.
That's a whopping $2.5 billion a year but a figure dwarfed by the costs linked to such a huge loss.
Data shows Australian horticulture experiences average food loss rates of about 20 percent per farm, with growers often wearing the expense of paying for seed, water, fertiliser, crop protection and labour.
This represents an enormous but largely invisible economic risk, costing an estimated $36.6 billion annually, or about 1.4
percent of GDP.
As such, it's one of the largest avoidable sources of productivity loss in the Australian economy.
In response, a new national research program is under way that aims to help farmers tackle surplus and on-farm losses.
Leading the program, End Food Waste Australia says it will put growers at the centre of national on-farm trials designed to measure where losses occur.
Practical ways to lift utilisation from each harvest are also being tested, product specifications reviewed, commercial pathways for surplus and out-of-spec produce identified and farmready resources developed.
The program is funded
through Hort Innovations Frontiers with various government co-investment.
Director of Research, Development and Extension Francesca Goodman-Smith says the project will work with growers on industrywide solutions.
"International trials have shown growers can increase profitability by up to 20 percent through food waste reduction," she said.
"When food isn't sold its not just the food that is wasted, it is also the fertiliser, water, labour and opportunity cost of using that land."
Hort's General Manager of Production and Sustainability Anthony Kachenko says there's a need to focus on improving profitability.
"Australian growers produce some of the best horticulture products in the world and work hard to get it to market," he said.
"This national program will support our growers by providing practical, commercially realistic tools to maximise value from each harvest."
A key element will be consumer research examining preferences and product specifications, the cosmetic and size standards that influence sales.
"Just because fruit has a cosmetic defect doesn't mean it's inedible," according to Rowan Little from Victorianbased fresh produce grower Montague Farms.
"We've reached almost 100 percent crop utilisation
Electric truck transition preparing
By Tom WARK, AAP
WAR in the Middle East and associated spiralling diesel costs could spell the perfect time for truck fleets to keep edging closer to electrification.
Last Tuesday, the NSW government announced an expansion of heavy vehicle electrification incentives as part of its EV roadmap, along with investment in more fast chargers and kerbside charging stations for cars.
Australia's trucking
industry has been relatively cautious taking up electric models, and the heavy vehicle peak body's boss said there was no better time for fleets to start deciding if battery power was the way forward.
"There'll come a time when it makes absolute sense to change, (but) it's not there yet," Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia head Todd Hacking told AAP.
"But with the war in Iran, now's a really good time to take stock and investigate exactly where you're at."
for our apples through secondary markets to cider and juices, and are looking at the same for plums.
"If we can unlock value in new markets and sell more from every crop, that's good for growers and good for the whole supply chain."
The research and trials will test what works under
Australian conditions using data collected from participating farms.
Outputs are expected to include measurement tools and loss-reduction resources, grower training materials and case studies that set out what options work and what they cost.
The findings will be published in order to make resources easy for growers to find and apply.
Under the current NSW incentive, only 4.5 tonne trucks are eligible, but the expansion will increase the threshold to vehicles up to 23 tonnes.
The trucking industry's gradual transformation will mean a more resilient economy for decades, the premier told reporters.
"(That will) further take us away from our dependence on Middle Eastern oil and electrify our economy," Chris Minns said.
"We're rated as the best state... when it comes to electric vehicle investment and government strategy, but we want to double down.
Mr Hacking said the ramping up of electric truck production in China was likely to permanently shake up Australian trucking.
"We will see more brands in Australia in the truck market than we've ever had before," he said.
"That is a good thing. Competition in the market breeds better solutions."
In the more mature personal transport market, EVs make up about 15 percent
of new car sales in NSW.
The government says switching to an EV from a petrol-run vehicle can cut fuel costs by up to $3000 a year, or entirely if using home solar, making the choice an economic one for those frustrated at the bowser.
Alongside more fast chargers in regional blackspots, more kerbside
charging stations will be built to help those who cannot charge at home, such as apartment residents.
The government will also invest in training for 2000 regional mechanics so country drivers can have their vehicles safely looked after closer to home.
State opposition leader Kellie Sloane said the
government's roadmap was a step backwards for motorists and does nothing to protect from future fuel shocks.
"This is not a strategy. It is a smokescreen. A classic Minns Labor government attempt to distract from three years of missed opportunities on EV infrastructure," Ms Sloane said.
q Data shows Australian horticulture experiences average food loss rates of about 20 percent per farm.
q Premier Chris Minns and Energy Minister Penny Sharpe want to boost NSW's EV charging network. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
To
We’re
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
BAD COMPANY
ABC TV, 8.15pm
Pitting the unbridled chaos of Anne Edmonds (above right) against Kitty Flanagan’s (above left) deadpan wit, this new character-driven sitcom –set in an avant-garde inner-city theatre company –is a match made in comedy heaven. The hilarious headliners are respectively cast as artistic director Margie and corporate cost-cutter Julia, who find themselves at odds when the latter is tasked with saving the failing Argyle Theatre. Created by Edmonds and directed by Fisk’s Tom Peterson, this playful satire puts the “fun” in dysfunctional.
FRIDAY, April 24
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Patience. (PGv)
9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (Final, PGs, R)
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Final, R)
10.20 News. 10.35 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PGl, R) 11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.05 Love Me. (Mdls, R) 12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.15 The Many Days Of Anzac. (PG, R) 4.10 Last Post: Winds Of Change. 4.20 Anzac Dawn Service From Sydney. 5.30 Anzac Dawn Service From Canberra.
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 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 A New ANZAC. (PGal)
WEDNESDAY
SAS: AUS V ENG
SEVEN, 7.30pm
When you’ve trained as an Olympic athlete, you might reckon that you’re ready for anything. But for gold medallist Mack Horton (pictured), who attempts a version of Special Forces selection in the new season of this gruelling reality series, it couldn’t be further from the truth. “They are worlds apart,” says Horton. “At the Olympics, you spend four or more years preparing for a single moment. On SAS have no idea what’s coming in the next few seconds.”
The swimmer is one of seven Aussies competing against UK celebrities in TV’s ultimate test of endurance. His teammates include Neighbours star Ryan “Toadie” Moloney, cricket legend Brad Hodge and singer Natalie Bassingthwaighte.
9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
THURSDAY
RICK STEIN’S AUSTRALIA
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 Sydney Weekender Special. (Premiere) Discovers the best Sydney has to offer.
9.00 MOVIE: The Devil Wears Prada. (2006, PGl, R) A young woman is hired as an assistant to the ruthless editor of a leading fashion magazine in Manhattan. Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep.
11.15 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.30 Weekend Sunrise.
He’s best known for championing Cornwall and its classic seaside fare, but British chef Rick Stein (pictured) is married to an Aussie and his love affair with our fair country stretches back 60 years. Stein first visited our shores when he was 19, on a trip he describes as “the beginning of my love affair with the people, the places and the food.” In his debut Aussie series, the celebrated restaurateur retraces that life-changing voyage, starting in Sydney Harbour where his adventure began all those years ago. Comparing the city’s food culture then to the vibrant food scene that exists today, Stein catches up with local legend Neil Perry and checks out Chinatown, before sharing a recipe for salt and pepper crab.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 8. Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs.
9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Brisbane Broncos and Canterbury Bulldogs.
10.45 MOVIE: Platoon. (1986, MA15+alv, R)
A young, naive soldier is sent to Vietnam. Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger.
1.00 Explore TV Viking. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Anzac Day Dawn Service.
10 News+.
Deal Or No Deal. (R)
Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and
SATURDAY, April 25
6.00
10.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Caper Crew. 9.15 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Langham: London’s Grandest Hotel.
8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland. (R)
9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (PGaw, R)
10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R)
11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)
1.55 Matched. (PG, R)
2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.50 The Zelensky Story. (Malv, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets up with some of the members of the Eastwood Country Women’s Association. 8.00 MOVIE: Pearl Harbor. (2001, Mv, R) Two childhood friends grow up to be US Army Air Force pilots stationed at Pearl Harbor. Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale. 11.50 My Reno Rules. (PGl, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown. 1.35 Devils. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGals, R)
6am Home Shopping. 8.30
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby Union. Women’s Pacific Four Series. Game 3. Australia v New Zealand.
10.00 MOVIE: Midway. (2019, Mlw, R) Charts the Battle of Midway. Woody Harrelson.
12.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 Open For Inspection. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
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. (PGa, R) Two brothers are impressed by a pure husky. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (Return) Neale Whitaker sets out to do a sensitive renovation where the spaces will creatively connect. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) The firm tackles an AI afterlife software dispute. 11.30 Elsbeth. (Mlv, R) Elsbeth infiltrates the world of puzzle
6am Guess
SUNDAY, April 26
6.00
6.30 Compass.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly. (Return, PGl)
8.15 Bad Company. (Premiere, PG) A theatre centre’s new CEO tries to prevent its downfall.
8.45 Bergerac. (Return, M)
9.30 Blue Murder Motel. (Final, PGl, R)
10.15 Top End Bub. (Final, PG, R)
10.40 MOVIE: Van Diemen’s Land. (2009, MA15+alv, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
3.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.00 Dream Gardens. (R)
4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Pompeii: The New Dig. (PG, R)
8.40 Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: Nabataeans. (PG, R) 9.40 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (Masv, R)
10.35 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa, R)
11.35 Rhoda Roberts AO: A Lasting Legacy. (Ml, R)
1.05 Matched. (PG, R)
2.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)
3.55 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PGl, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
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WorldWatch. 10.30 The Movie Show. 12.15pm Motorcycle Racing. 1.15 The Swiping Game. 1.35 Jeopardy! 3.40 WorldWatch. 4.40 PBS News Compass Points. 5.10 Fashionista. 5.20 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 6.20 Abandoned Engineering. 8.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Men’s race. 12.40am Cycling. UCI World Tour. LiegeBastogne-Liege. Women’s race. 2.15 Late Programs.
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Who’s Coming To Dinner. (1967, PG) 8.05 Men In War. (1957, PG) 10.05 Mass. (2021, M) 12.10pm Discovering Film. 1.00 Marmalade. (2024, M) 3.00 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 5.10 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 6.50 The Skin Of Others. (2020, PG) 8.30 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 10.40 Nymphomaniac: Vol. II. (2013, MA15+) 12.50am Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.10 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 7.50 Discovering Film. 8.40 The Skin Of Others. (2020, PG) 10.30 That Good Night. (2017, M) 12.15pm Ping Pong: The Triumph. (2023, M, Mandarin) 2.45 Time Men In War. (1957) 6.50 8.30 Stalingrad. (2013, The Firm. (1993, MA15+)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 MOVIE: Bravery & Betrayal. (2025, Malv) Looks at the SAS troops that were sent to Afghanistan and Iraq following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. 11.10 24 Hours In Police Custody: Living Among Us. (MA15+al, R) 12.10 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Floor. (PGl) 8.10 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.10 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators: Operation Bastille. (Masv) Looks at Operation Bastille.
9News Late.
The First 48: Among Friends. (Ma, R)
American Ripper. (Premiere, Mav)
Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)
MONDAY, April 27
6.00
8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Herrhausen: The Banker And The Bomb. (Mlv) 11.45 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R)
2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R) 3.50 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (PGv, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 TBA. 10.35 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Jack Mimoun And The Secrets Of Val Verde. (2022, M, French) Noon The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 2.10 Discovering Film. 3.00 The Crow’s Egg. (2014, PG, Tamil) 4.40 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 6.40 Above Us The Waves. (1955, PG) 8.30 Hamburger Hill. (1987, MA15+) 10.30 Noryang: Deadly Sea. (2023, MA15+, Korean) 1.15am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, April 28
6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 TBA. 10.35 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago:
Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Living Black. (R)
Exit. (Malv)
Clean Sweep. (Mals, R)
The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)
The Agenda Setters.
St. Denis Medical. (PGadl)
New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
Travel Oz. (PG, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
(64)
Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 4.05 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (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 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Glenn And Mick’s Celebrity Intervention. (M) 8.40 9-1-1. (Mav) Eddie and Buck’s flight to LA is cancelled.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.25 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 8.20 Discovering Film. 9.15 Above Us The Waves. (1955, PG) 11.00 Love Thing. (2022, M, German) 12.50pm Oskars Kleid. (2022, M, German) 2.45 The Blockhouse. (1973, PG) 4.20 Boychoir. (2014, PG) 6.15 Spitfire. (1942, PG) 8.30 The Flowers Of War. (2011, MA15+) 11.10 Comandante. (2023, MA15+, Italian) 1.20am Late Programs.
MADE FRESH, MADE DELICIOUS
Chargrilled steaks Fresh Fish Pub classics Chef’s specials WEEKDAY LUNCHES
(64)
$20 meals + $5 schooner WHAT’S ON
Wednesday - Trivia from 6.30pm Thursday - Meat Raffle & Joker Poker from 5.30pm Sunday - Roast Lunch, Full menu also available BEHIND THE BAR 8 tap
WEDNESDAY, April 29
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 SAS: AUS v ENG. (Return)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+sv)
Blue Lights. (Malsv, R) 2.05 Classified. (Malv, R) 3.40 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 TBA. 10.35 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly. 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.05 Adventure Time. 9.30 Teen Titans Go! 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.35 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 TBA. 10.35 Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.25 Flower And Flour. 6.35 Big Lizard.
THURSDAY,
April 30
9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 The Agenda Setters. 11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Final, Ml)
12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R) 12.30 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, 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 Events That Changed Australia. (Ml) 8.30 Outback Murder Highway. (Mv) 9.30 NRLW Wrap: Women’s State Of Origin Special. (PG) 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop:
6am Australia’s Deadliest. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Business Builders. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Reno Rules. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical
6am The Movie
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Rick Stein’s Australia. (Premiere, a)
8.35 Secrets Of Flying Scotsman. (R)
9.30 Riot Women. (Malv)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Under The Bridge. (Malsv)
12.05 The Unusual Suspects. (Mls, R)
2.05 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R)
3.05 The Lost Camps Of The Third Reich. (PGa, R)
4.05 Legacy List With Matt Paxton. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
VICELAND (31)
8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Spy Game. (2001, M) 10.50 Brassic. 12.35am Count Abdulla. 1.35 Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.30 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 11.00
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PG, R)
8.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal)
A Tesla tests everyone’s patience.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. More performers take to the stage. 9.45 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
10.45 To Be Advised.
11.45 HMP: Behind Bars. (MA15+a, R)
1.15 New Amsterdam. (MA15+a, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 American Godfathers: The Five Families. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Brassic. 12.50am Late Programs.
Show. 6.10 Boychoir. (2014, PG) 8.05 Spitfire. (1942, PG) 10.20 King Of My Castle. (2024, M, French) 12.25pm Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 2.00 The Ideal Palace. (2018, PG, French) 4.00 Above Us The Waves. (1955, PG) 5.50 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 8.30 Good Morning, Vietnam. (1987) 10.50 The Love Witch. (2016, MA15+) 1.05am Late Programs. 6am Discovering Film. 6.55 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 9.30 The Movie Show. 10.05 Superheroes. (2021, M, Italian) 12.15pm Good Morning, Vietnam. (1987) 2.30 Spitfire. (1942, PG) 4.45 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PG) 6.30 One Of Our Aircraft Is Missing. (1942, PG) 8.30 Letters From Iwo Jima. (2006, MA15+) 11.00 Rendition. (2007, MA15+) 1.15am The Love Witch. (2016, MA15+) 3.25 Late Programs.
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
Plants for sale
BEER brewing kit complete plus 250 bottles. $99. 6559 6656
BOOKS 15 boxes from collector. Various categories - fiction military, history, lifestyle from $2 - $5. Ph 0408 952 429
CAMPING chairs x 2 with side table. Very good cond. $25 each Ph 0434 521 457
VICTOR special and utility, 2 each also Sheerline and many other mower parts. $150 6558 9242
WIGGLES 4 drawer chest, $60. Ph 0432 050 619
On the Couch
By JASMINDA
DEAR Jasminda,
MY 70-year-old mother has expressed an interest in learning the electric guitar.
How can I encourage her to try something more age-appropriate?
Gerard H.
Dear Gerard,
Well, don't you sound like a wet sock.
And when I say wet sock, I mean one of those sports socks that ends up stuck behind the washing machine with water dripping on it from a split hose pipe until it turns into a stiff,
stained, smelly, unproductive item.
Age-appropriate? At what age is it no longer acceptable to engage in an activity that keeps the brain engaged?
Do you think taking up a new creative outlet should be limited to those under 40?
What, in your mind, is more ageappropriate?
Bingo? Joining a crochet group? Donning a flowery swimming cap and a matronly one-piece and taking up synchronised swimming at the local pool? Seated lawn skittles?
If your mum is 70, I'd say she's a force to be reckoned with.
She probably fought for equal pay, she no doubt marched for reproductive rights.
I bet she wore mini skirts and platform boots and suede flares.
She probably burnt her bra as part of the liberation movement.
And (along with her friends) she no doubt enacted a whole lot of other changes that future generations (like yours) benefit from.
While we're at it, your mum no doubt gained a university degree and
PUZZLES
worked while trying to raise a family. That family includes you, Gerard, you judgy little wet sock.
Your mum would have spent endless days rocking you to sleep and changing your nappies and ensuring your every whim was attended to.
She no doubt did your washing and cooked your meals for decades too.
Then, like all the other mums out there, she worried about your every life stage, because that's what mums do.
So now it's her turn.
I hope she clears out your old bedroom and turns it into a not-sosoundproof studio.
I hope she puts out a casting call to other like-minded women who have spent their lives devoted to others. And I hope their first band meeting kicks off with a punk version of Aretha Franklin's 'Respect'. Maybe you can make a cameo, waving a wet sock for the 'sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me' section of the chorus.
Hell, you've made me want to
News Of The Area
learn the electric guitar. Or maybe the drums.
Can you send me your mum's number?
Rock on, Gerard's mother.
As for you, Gerard, pay attention to my usual sign off...
diem, Jasminda.
And instead of being so discouraging (and disparaging) you should be proud that you are the son of a great role model who is keen to keep learning and embracing change.
When it comes to preparing your home for sale, it’s easy to second guess every decision. But more often than not, simple, low cost changes can dramatically lift your presentation and buyer appeal.
Start with what you already have. Rearranging furniture can completely transform a space, improving flow, light and how a room feels the moment you walk in. Don’t be afraid to experiment with placement. Updating cushions is another easy win. Fresh colours and textures can modernise a room instantly, and if new isn’t an option, covers or borrowed pieces work just as well. Flooring plays its part too. A well placed rug can add warmth, define living zones and cleverly disguise wear and tear. If your walls feel tired, a single feature wall can provide a fresh, modern lift without the cost of repainting the entire room.
Take a look at your shelves. Decluttering and restyling with a mix of books and décor creates a greater sense of space. And finally, bring in some greenery. Plants add life, soften a room and fill awkward gaps beautifully. With a little creativity and a fresh eye, you can achieve an inspection-ready look in a day.
Denise
Second charity bookshop break-in in 18 months
By Kim TEOH
WHEN Ronda Teece and her team turned up on 26 March to open up the Gloucester Charities bookshop, they were greeted with a shock.
The store had suffered significant vandalism, with two doors, drawers, cupboards and a filing cabinet badly damaged.
A laptop was stolen, as were cash and gift cards intended for distribution to people in need in the community.
“Who would steal
from a charity that helps people in need?” said Ronda, who is president of the bookshop committee.
Secretary Jenny Wardle said it was the charity store’s second break-in in 18 months.
“It will cost us thousands to repair and to replace,” she said.
The bookshop, located at the former Scout hall, has been running for over 20 years and is supported by 20-plus local volunteers.
Second hand books are posted for sale on
Facebook and orders come from all over the country, so the stolen laptop has significantly affected operations.
As a result of the incident, the shop has been unable to provide the same level of assistance to locals for the last few weeks nor sponsor the weekly free lunch run by Food with Friends.
“However, the community has been most supportive with donations and people continue to donate DVDs and books,” Jenny said.
“We are very appreciative of their support.
“That’s the strong community spirit that is often seen in Gloucester.”
Spirit of Nature on exhibition in Gloucester
By Wendy BUSWELL
LOCAL artists John Andrews and Meg Tulk are bringing their exhibition, “The Spirit of Nature”, to the Gloucester Gallery, where it will be on show from 22 April.
The Spirit of Nature is the pair’s second joint exhibition in the Gloucester Gallery.
Andrews has been painting since the age of twelve, accumulating decades of experience, whilst Tulk has dedicated herself seriously to the craft for only four years.
The two artists met three years ago, and on a visit to Tulk’s farm, Andrews admired the artwork on the walls and asked Tulk if she would like to exhibit with him.
“It took a great deal of persuasion,” Tulk recalled.
“Since that first exhibition,” Andrews told News Of The Area, “Meg’s work has gone from strength to strength.”
Andrews cites his mother as the greatest influence on his artistic journey.
“We lived on a remote farm, but my mother made sure her four children learned to paint and appreciate culture.”
Both Andrews and Tulk speak of their love of the natural world, the turning of the seasons, and the extraordinary scope that nature offers the artist, from realistic to abstract interpretations.
Nature is the unifying element of this exhibition, yet each artist has a unique style that encourages viewers to observe nature from different perspectives.
Andrews recalls a particularly memorable moment when a neighbour at Uralla, having seen one of his exhibitions, came up to the gate and offered, “I still don’t like abstracts, but that was the only way you could have represented that rough bit of country.”
Meg enjoys playing with colour using a weton-wet technique that enables the colours to “move and blend on the canvas”.
“My paintings are
highly colourful, based on realistic forms but not necessarily realistic colours,” said Tulk.
Tulk’s commitment to the natural world does not end with the canvas; it extends even to her frames.
“All the frames have been crafted from timber
Council backs major events
MIDCOAST Council has announced economic support for a range of major sporting championships and conferences set to bring visitors to the region and deliver flow-on benefits for local businesses.
Through targeted event sponsorship, Council will support
- U14 Hockey State Championships, 10-12 April at Taree Hockey Complex
- CWA State Conference, 3-7 May at Club Forster
- Bowls State Carnival, held in May at various bowling venues across the region
- Vikings Senior Challenge, held in March each year at the Tuncurry Sports Fields
- Central District Rowing Association Championship, held in March on the Manning River
- NSW Triathlon Club Championships, held in Forster each February.
Mayor Claire Pontin said Council’s approach is focused on supporting events that deliver tangible benefits for the community.
“Council is proud to support events that bring people to our region, filling local accommodation, cafes,
clubs and retail businesses and delivering real value for our community,” she said.
“These events also showcase our region as a great place to visit, compete and host, helping to build our reputation and attract future events.”
Council’s sponsorship program prioritises events that demonstrate strong visitor appeal and clear economic impact, while also delivering positive community outcomes through participation, volunteering and local pride.
The events will be hosted
across the region, drawing participants and supporters from across NSW and beyond.
Cr Pontin said a strong events calendar helps drive year-round visitation and supports business confidence.
“Major championships and conferences create a ripple effect across the local economy - from accommodation and hospitality to services, retail and tourism experiences,” she said.
“They also create great energy in our towns and a sense of pride for locals who help make these events happen.”
collected and milled right here on our farm,” she said.
Oil on hardboard dominated Andrews’ earlier work, though he has since made the transition to acrylics, a medium he finds far more versatile.
“Acrylics can be used
in a watercolour style or a thick impasto depending on the subject or feeling I wish to evoke,” he said.
The Spirit of Nature will be formally opened on Sunday, 26 April at 11am at the Gloucester Gallery.
All are welcome, and entry is free.
q The bookshop is well supported in general by locals and visitors.
q Work by Meg Tulk.
Photo: supplied. q Work by John Andrews. Photo: supplied.
q A previous Lake Trail Festival. Photo: supplied.
Stargazing
By Dave RENEKE
A VISITOR from the deep past is about to grace Australian skies.
For those willing to rise before dawn, it offers something close to time travel.
The long-period comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) - last seen when humans were shaping stone tools and learning to master fire - has returned after an absence of roughly 170,000 years.
As the comet sweeps inward toward the Sun, reaching perihelion on 19 April before passing relatively close to Earth on 26 April, observers across Australia are in a prime
The comet cometh
position to witness it.
Away from city glare, coastal towns offer ideal viewing conditions: dark horizons over the Pacific, crisp autumn air, and early morning skies unspoiled by artificial light.
Look toward the constellation Pegasus constellation, specifically the easily recognisable "Great Square”, just before sunrise.
With luck and clear weather, the comet may glow faintly to the naked eye, its tail stretching like a ghostly brushstroke across the sky.
Comets have long stirred human imagination.
In antiquity, they were often seen as omens - harbingers of change, disaster, or divine intervention.
The appearance of Halley's Comet, for example, was recorded in 1066 and later embroidered into the Bayeux Tapestry as a portent of
conquest.
Today, we understand comets not as supernatural signs but as icy relics - frozen leftovers from the formation of the solar system 4.6 billion years ago.
Each one is a time capsule, composed of dust, rock, and volatile ices that vaporise as they near the Sun, forming the luminous coma and tail.
What makes C/2025 R3 extraordinary is its orbit.
Unlike short-period comets that return every few decades, this one hails from the distant Oort Cloud, a vast spherical halo of icy bodies surrounding the solar system.
Its elongated path means it spends most of its existence in deep space, only briefly visiting the inner planets before retreating again into darkness.
No written record, no ancient chronicle, no civilisation has ever documented its passage - until now.
For photographers, capturing this rare visitor is both a challenge and a thrill. A sturdy tripod is essential, along with a camera capable of long exposures.
Use a wide-angle lens to frame the comet against the landscapeperhaps the silhouette of Norfolk pines along the NSW coast or the curve of a quiet beach.
Start with exposures of 5–15 seconds, adjusting ISO and aperture depending on brightness.
If you have binoculars or a small telescope, you'll see more detail: the nucleus glowing at the centre, the tail fanning outward like cosmic smoke.
There is something deeply humbling about standing under the
same sky that Stone Age humans once gazed upon, watching the return of an object they may also have seen - perhaps with wonder, perhaps with fear.
Long after our cities fade and our histories blur, C/2025 R3 will continue its silent journey, looping back again in another 170,000 years. For now, though, it is here.
Step outside before dawn. Look up. And take your place, however briefly, in the long story of the sky.
See Dave’s website: www. davidreneke.com.
Top marks for sports uniform proposal
NEW research suggests most Australians support a simple change that could significantly boost children’s physical activity levels: letting students wear sports uniforms every day.
The majority of young Australians are still not active enough, despite wellestablished evidence that regular physical activity improves children’s physical and mental health.
Schools are seen as an important setting to address this - but some principals have been hesitant to move away from traditional uniforms due to concerns about community expectations.
A University of Newcastle (UoN) study in partnership with Hunter New England Local Health District’s Population Health, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, analysed nearly 2,000 public responses and hundreds of community comments, finding more than three-quarters of respondents back the daily wearing of activity-enabling sports uniforms in schools.
UoN’s Belinda Peden, of HMRI’s Population Health
Research program, said ensuring children obtained adequate amounts of physical activity was important for their physical, social and mental health and could improve their attention and academic performance.
“Because physical activity patterns established in childhood often track into adulthood, supporting children to be sufficiently active can help prevent chronic disease later in life,” she said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends children do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intense, physical activity each day.
However, global data shows that only one third of children are sufficiently active, highlighting the need for population-wide interventions.
Traditional school uniforms are often formal in design, consisting of a dress or skirt and blouse for girls and trousers or shorts with a button-up business styleshirt for boys, paired with black leather shoes.
Sports uniforms, consisting of shorts, polo
shirts and sports shoes are only worn on days with physical education classes or scheduled sport, often requiring children to change at school.
Several studies have identified formal school uniforms as a barrier to students’ participating in physical activity, especially for girls.
“Reviews have found that traditional uniform policies more frequently disadvantage girls, students from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, low-income families, and gender, and sexually diverse students,” Ms Peden explained.
This study conducted a multi method content analysis, examining public responses to media coverage of proposals to allow students to wear sports uniforms in schools.
An article originally published in research-based news and analysis media outlet The Conversation, titled ‘Four reasons Australian schools should let students wear sports uniforms every day’, attracted coverage across television, digital, print and radio news,
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as well as social media platforms.
The multi method content analysis found the majority of responses to media coverage of The Conversation article (76 percent) supported schools’ permitting students to wear sports uniforms every day with only 22 percent opposed and two percent categorised as unclear.
“This is one of the first studies to really look at what the public thinks - and it shows people are more open to flexible school uniforms than many might expect,” Ms Peden said.
“We found strong support for letting kids wear sports uniforms every day, which could make it much easier for schools to help students be more active.
“It’s a simple, low-cost change that could have a big impact, especially when we know parents, students and teachers are already on board.”
Ms Peden said themes around equity, inclusion and autonomy also came through strongly across all the data.
“The data showed people felt that letting students wear sports uniforms every day
could make a real differencesupporting gender equity and inclusion, giving kids more choice, and simply making them more comfortable.
“We also know from previous research that strict uniform rules can have the opposite effect, particularly for gender-diverse students, impacting both wellbeing and learning.”
While global, national and state level physical activity guidelines recommend increasing opportunities for students to be active at school, uniform policies are often overlooked as an easy modifiable factor that could potentially influence student activity, particularly during school break times.
Ms Peden said the study’s findings could inform strategies to address a barrier to a simple, scalable, population-level intervention to increase school-based physical activity.
“What this study shows is that the community is ready for change,” she said.
“There’s strong support for more flexible school uniforms, which could help remove a key barrier to getting kids more active.
“When you combine this with support from parents, students and teachers, it’s a great opportunity to rethink uniform policies in a way that supports wellbeing, inclusion, and equity.”
Professor Luke Wolfenden is Editor-in-Chief of the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health and works alongside the research group that developed the paper.
He hopes the research will help settle the ongoing debate regarding community support and perceived benefits of more physically activity-enabling versus traditional school uniforms.
"This study suggests there is broad community support for school uniforms that support physical activity,” he said.
“Hopefully the findings prompt school principals and committees to focus on health when choosing school clothing. It’s a simple change that has the potential to have a big impact.”
HMRI is a partnership between the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Local Health District and the community.
By Jennifer BURLEY
Gloucester Lady Bowlers Wingham Win Vets Golf Shield
ANOTHER lovely Autumn day welcomed the "girls" playing in the quarter final of the Singles Consistency Championship. One match from the 1st round which was held over from the previous Wednesday 8th,and tabled for play on Monday 13th was won on a forfeit by Deb Horner from Jenny Burley.The matches for play
and results were, Judy Sheely 128 defeated Deb Horner 42. Bev Germon in a tight game defeated Kerrie Green 127 to 103. And in another nail biter Di Pritchard 121 defeated Joy Hurworth 119. And in the fourth match Suzanne Cross received a forfeit from Karen Heiningher. Thus on Wednesday 22nd the Semi Finals will feature Judy Sheely verus Suzanne Cross and Di Pritchard verus Bev
Germon. Social Play saw 2 games played, one game of Pairs, Ruth Redman and Val Pritchard 22 defeated Deb English and Suzanne Cross 8. And in a game of Triples, Helen Banks,Penny Gibson and Marg Moore 20 defeated Julie Kriss,Deb Cushway and Denise Redman 11. The sheet is on the board for the Thelma Bolton Pairs with play to start on May 13th.
Gloucester Tennis Results
By Anthony KINGSTON
THE
tennis competition of the year came to a conclusion recently and at least five teams were in contention for the title heading into the final night . In the end, the consistent Team Scott's - comprising
Robyn Scott, Rob Howden and Jeff Cowley - finished on top, narrow victors over the team of Greg Billingham, Marrilyn Snape and Eli Soupides.
Tom Power, Tom Haschek and Melinda Saunders were a close third.
These three teams had been the leading teams throughout the competition and deserved their places on the podium.
The tennis club thanks all players and floaters for another successful mixed comp.
New night comps will be starting soon, men's on Tuesdays, mixed on Thursdays. New players particularly welcome.
By Peter WILDBLOOD
THIS last Tuesday, 14 April, saw the Gloucester Veteran Golfers hosting the second round of the Glowing Shield, only to see the Wingham Veteran Golfers take the trophy home with them.
The Glowing Shield
is awarded each year to the aggregate home-andaway scores turned in by the two teams of Veteran Golfers from Wingham and Gloucester.
Despite Gloucester finishing ahead of Wingham, 364 to 335, on Tuesday, it was Wingham’s
Women on Wednesday
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE Gloucester Golf Ladies won another pennants contest on Monday 13 April, playing at Port Macquarie against Tallwoods. It was another close affair with Gloucester winning 3 matches to 2, with Deb Sate, Gai Falla and Carolyn Davies winning their matches.
A lifetime of netball
BETTY Pearson has been nominated as a Gloucester Sports Committee Local Legend in recognition of an extraordinary 60 years of unwavering dedication and service to the Gloucester & District Netball Club.
“Betty’s journey began as a player aged 16, from where her passion for the game and commitment to her teammates quickly became evident,” said Lorraine Forbes, Secretary/Treasurer, Gloucester Sports Committee.
“Her time on the court was marked not only by skill and determination, but by a genuine love of netball that inspired those around her.”
Following her playing
career, Betty continued to give back to the sport in countless ways.
Through her contribution as a selector, her insight and knowledge helped shape teams and nurture emerging talent.
As a coach, Betty played a pivotal role in developing players of all ages and abilities, sharing her knowledge, encouraging confidence and fostering a strong sense of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Many athletes have benefitted from her guidance, not only improving their skills but also growing in character under her mentorship.
In leadership roles such
Bosma’s big day
holes were won by Harrison
Jones in A grade, Brian Osborne in B grade, Peter Markey in C grade with Dale Rabbett doing the job for the
as Treasurer, Vice President and Umpire Convenor, Betty’s impact has been profound.
“She has been a guiding force within the club – mentoring umpires, supporting players and helping build a strong, inclusive and thriving netball community,” Lorraine said.
“Her tireless efforts behind the scenes have ensured the smooth running and continued growth of the club for decades.”
In recognition of her outstanding service, Betty was awarded Life Membership to the Gloucester & District Netball Association on 18 December 1996 – an honour that reflects the high
women golfers in the field. At the shorter 6th and 15th holes the trophies went Phil Bowden, Peter Sate and Will Bosma in the three men’s grades with Dale Rabbett backing up for the women.
On Wednesday 15 April, it was a perfect day for golf with the course drying out to give some run, and the Gloucester Golf Ladies turned in some great scores.
The event, an Individual Stableford, was won by Liane Markey with an outstanding score of 44 points. Liane narrowly beat Lesly Harrison
regard in which she is held and the lasting impact of her contributions to the sport.
Betty has continued to umpire for the club, officiating at local and regional levels.
She demonstrates fairness, integrity and an exceptional understanding of the game, earning the respect of players and officials alike.
“For six decades Betty has embodied the very values of the club.
“It is difficult to imagine our netball community without her influence and dedication.
“This Local Legend nomination is a fitting tribute to a remarkable individual whose contributions have been nothing short of exceptional.”
The long drive trophies at the par-5 8th and 17th holes were won by Jamie Andrews, Ryan Yates, Nathan Webber and Dale Rabbett.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 17 April
prior home win of 342 to 226 that gave the win to Wingham with an aggregate 677 to the home side’s 630.
The event on the day was an Individual Stableford with the leading individual Gloucester score was achieved by Anne Wand whose 39 points was but a count back ahead of runner up Carolyn Davies, 39. For the Wingham golfers, Ted Bowen 38 was best with runner up, after a count back, Craig Hamilton, 36. Balls were won by Trevor Sharp and Col Clark 37, Sally Higgins, Hayden Moller and Will Bosma 36, Blake Moller, Arthur Poynting, Cheryl Goodrich, Peter Buettel, Trevor Burns and Gai Falla 35, with the final two balls to Trevor Jones and Debbie Sate, 34.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Beth Braham and Paul Griffiths. At the 6th and 15th holes it was Cheryl Goodrich and Peter Sate.
On Tuesday 21 April the Veteran Golfers were due to play a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford sponsored by Sally and John Higgins. Next Tuesday, 28 April, there will be an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Amanda Robertson.
who also handed in a great card showing a score of 43 points. Balls went to Lesly Harison and Susie Higgins who had a handicap-matching score of 36 points. Dale Rabbett won the Narest-to-the-Pin prize on the 4th and 13th holes, while Evelyn Blanch was on target to take out the prize on the
6th and 15th.
On Wednesday 22 April, the Gloucester Golf Ladies will be playing an Individual Stroke sponsored by Carolyn Davies, part of their WGNSW Medal for 2026. The following Wednesday they will play their Four Ball Better Ball Championships sponsored by Amanda Robertson.
was won on a count back by Mark Garner with 20 points. Ball winners were Doug Blanch 20, and Rod Burrows and Will Bosma 16.
On Saturday 25 April the Gloucester Golf Club
will be playing an Individual Stableford and the following Saturday 2 May there will be the May Monthly Medal, an Individual Stroke event sponsored by Arkwood Organic Recycling.
first mixed
q Winning team of Rob Howden, Robyn Scott and Jeff Cowley.
