Issuu

By John WATTS

960 wendy@newsofthearea.com.au

A new stage in the life of festival

By John WATTS

MUSICIANS playing the Craven Creek Music Festival on 13 and 14 September will ply their trade on a newly built stage.

News Of The Area reported last month that this year’s festival will feature piano music for the first time, after the acquisition of a baby grand piano.

The festival is held in a century-old tin farm shed, which for most of the year hosts bales of hay, a tractor, farm equipment and the occasional possum.

When Greg and Jenny Lindsay first stepped into the old shed that they were about to buy, they noticed one end of the old building stood about 30cm higher than the floor and looked a bit like a stage.

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A great place for a concert was the thought.

A year later, in September 2013, the first festival kicked off, and apart from two COVIDenforced breaks, concerts in the barn have been held every year since.

From its modest beginnings with a single

performance in 2013, the Craven Creek Music Festival has grown into a highlight of the cultural calendar for Gloucester and the Mid-Coast region.

In 2025 there will be four concerts.

But what about that stage?

Designed originally as a platform for tools, odd jobs, and perhaps a bit of hay, it was never meant to carry more than a few people at once.

When the festival began programming larger works, such as Mendelssohn’s exhilarating String Octet, the strain showed and the stage began to sink in places.

A temporary fix was made in 2024, but with the arrival of the piano this year, it was clear something more substantial was needed.

Enter local contractor Sean Emerson and his team who recently set about the task with a flurry of energy.

A series of solid concrete piers now support a brand-new level floor, hopefully strong enough to withstand anything the festival can throw at it.

Last week, the work was finished and the piano was lifted carefully into place.

“When the 2025 Craven Creek Festival

Bucketts

Gloucester

Hebbys

Yates

q Work underway on the

kicks off next month, audiences will hear one of Australia’s most eminent pianists, Konstantin Shamray, and both the new piano and the rebuilt stage will be put to the test,” said Greg.

2026 KINDERGARTEN TRANSITION INFORMATION

EARLY BIRDS

Sessions 2 to 4; 9am - 12pm

Our transition program, ‘Early Birds’ provides opportunities for students to visit the school and participate in classroom and playground activities.

The program supports a smooth and positive transition experience from home to school for kindergarten class of 2026. The program fosters an environment of safety and belonging and allows students to commence kindergarten with confidence.

Successful Foundations provides children with the opportunity to actively demonstrate their knowledge with the context of the school, through play!

PARENT AND STUDENT SESSIONS

Session 1 (Term 3)

Tuesday 5th August 9:15-10:15am

 Children can attend playgroup, 9:15-10:15am while parents/carers attend information session with school counsellor.

Session 2 (Term 4)

Tuesday 28th October 9:15-10:15am

 Children can join Early Birds while parents/carers attend Information Session with Principal.

 Students attend Early Birds transition program from 9am - 12pm. Pick up at the front office.

STUDENT SESSIONS

Session 3 (Term 4)

Tuesday 4th November 9-12pm

 Parent’s kiss and drop for Early Birds.

 Uniforms on display and available to purchase.

Session 4 (Term 4)

Tuesday 11th November 9-12pm

 Parent’s kiss and drop for Early Birds.

 Uniforms on display and available to purchase

ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

02 6558 1555

admin@gloucester.catholic.edu.au

www.gloucester.catholic.edu.au @stjosephsprimarygloucester

“Hopefully that sinking feeling will be gone for good.”

Tri Challenge cancelled

By John WATTS

THE Gloucester Mountain Man Tri Challenge, which was to take place on 14 September, has been cancelled.

“With all the rain the organising committee really had no choice but to cancel this year’s event,” said Race Director Sam De Witte.

“It was a reluctant decision and very disappointing, but there were a whole

range of factors preventing this year’s event from proceeding.

“The Barrington River is at nearly two metres and flowing fast, the paddocks which the bike riders have to cross are saturated and boggy, and the area where the kayak leg finishes cannot be used.

“Sometimes the weather just goes against you and we didn’t want to leave it to the last minute to make a call.”

new stage.

q The completed stage hosting the new piano.

q Tri Challenge action.

The fascinating life of Penny Drake-Brockman

England just before the second World War.

During the war the family lived on England’s south coast, and Penny recalls watching “dog fights” overhead, and once got chased away after trying to climb through barbed wire into a nearby “ack ack” gun emplacement.

Penny’s mother’s ambition for her daughters was for them to marry and have lots of children, a hope shared by the nuns at convent school.

Penny had other ideas however, and completed two years at art school.

“At art school the world opened up to me and I discovered music and the Russian and French authors, as well as art,” said Penny.

the age of five.”

After art school Penny headed up to London where she got work as a secretary, which was one of the few options open to young women at that time.

In London her horizons, particularly surrounding the arts, broadened even further.

“When in London I went frequently to classical music concerts and to the theatre,” said Penny.

“There were also lots of coffee bars, usually in a damp basement, where someone would play the guitar in a thick smoky room.

“I met new and interesting people all the time.”

Penny’s boss at work.

When she resigned her job the relationship deteriorated, and after a visit to Australia she decided that she’d emigrate, which she did in 1983.

Soon after moving to Sydney, Penny got a job with the Conservatorium of Music running the Sydney International Piano Competition before being invited to help set up the first London International Piano Competition, but after fifteen months she returned to Australia.

For a few years before retiring Penny ran the public music examinations program at the Conservatorium.

Page 1 that she found particularly attractive, so she decided to stay.

Penny did succumb to social convention when she met and married Anthony, eventually giving birth to two sons.

“I played the piano from

As well as being her husband, Anthony was also

All her life Penny has been interested in the natural world, particularly birdlife, and this interest took her to various parts of NSW.

Gloucester was one area

HOUSING PACKAGE

FROM Page 1

family or set themselves up in a new place - delivered through new rental grants.

Introduced in response to the record-breaking flooding in May, these new grants provide one-off financial assistance to help households return to home quickly, covering urgent costs such as removalists, rental bonds and other costs related to setting up a new home. These will be delivered alongside grants to help homeowners with the costs

of repairs, which will also be available to landlords to make repairs to private rental stock where they are willing to commit to returning supply to the private rental market.

Meanwhile a dedicated Housing Recovery Service will operate for residents

“For me Gloucester ticked all the boxes and had, and still has, the feeling of a village,” added Penny.

After moving to town,

across impacted areas, providing a one-stop shop for assistance and to assess eligibility and guide them toward the support that best meets their individual recovery needs.

“The Housing Recovery Service will provide a no wrong door approach for households and community organisations, removing the

Penny joined the Gloucester Environment Group of which she has been active ever since.

For many years she was the inspiration behind the group’s Rivercare project which carries out

guesswork for residents trying to get back on their feet,” said NSW Minister for Housing Rose Jackson.

“It will allow Homes NSW and the Reconstruction Authority to work collaboratively to match eligible flood-impacted people to the right support, avoiding duplication and added stress.”

The package will be offered to flood-impacted residents whose homes were rendered uninhabitable across the 25 local government areas hardest hit by the May event, where they don’t have insurance cover for the damage.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain told News Of The Area, "The devastation caused by the East Coast floods has left many families and communities facing distress and uncertainty.

“This new $50 million housing support package is a vital step in helping people regain stability and rebuild their lives.

"We know from past disasters that timely, targeted

assistance makes a real difference.

“That’s why the Australian Government is proud to work alongside the NSW Government to deliver practical supportwhether it's helping people stay connected to their land, repair their homes or find safe accommodation. "

Member for Lyne Alison Penfold thanked the governments for delivering this “much-needed” package, but continued her call for greater assistance.

“While this is a positive step, it doesn’t go far enough,” she said.

“Small businesses are still waiting on Category D funding, and our region needs serious investment in CBD revitalisation, flood mitigation, and long-term community recovery.”

From Monday, 25 August, residents can contact the Housing Recovery Service on 1800 695 043 or visit nsw.gov.au to check their eligibility, apply for assistance, and access tailored housing recovery support.

q Penny tickling the ivories.

q Homes across the Hunter and Mid North Coast suffered damage due to the flooding event in May

regeneration in Gloucester District Park, and other parts of the town.

Penny still joins in the Environment Group’s bird watching and other activities.

Hunter hospitals rolling-out safe staffing in EDs

TWENTY-SEVEN more hospitals across NSW are rolling-out safe staffing levels in their emergency departments.

In the broader Hunter region these include Manning Base Hospital, Maitland Hospital and John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle.

This brings to 40 the number of hospitals across the state that have started operating with safe staffing levels as a result of promised healthcare staffing reforms.

“For too long, hospitals across regional and rural NSW have been left behind, but this reform is changing that, with hundreds of additional nurses already recruited and more on the way,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.

At Manning Base Hospital, for instance, an additional 21 nurses will be rostered in ED.

MLC for Myall Lakes Emily Suvaal said the reforms will make a real difference

for patients and nurses.

“The rollout of Safe Staffing Levels at Manning Hospital is about fairness –making sure people in the regions get the same quality of care as those in Sydney,” she said.

“As someone who has worked in the health system, I know how important it is for nurses to have the support they need on every shift.”

The new measures enable a one-to-one nursing care ratio for generally occupied

No plans to improve Barrington’s mobile phone service

By John WATTS

LOCAL resident Shelley Faull has described the Telstra mobile phone service to the village of Barrington and its surrounds as being “woeful”.

According to Telstra’s Network Coverage Map the whole village of Barrington is covered by its mobile service, and there is nothing to indicate that Barrington residents are likely to experience issues using their mobile phones.

According to locals and visitors however, the map does not match their lived experience.

“I have to stand on my verandah to get any mobile

connection, and then I have calls that keep dropping out,” said local Jo Davidson.

“It’s a very poor service.”

Nick Wardle, who is involved with the Barrington Hall, explained that the mobile service was inconsistent.

“The hall is an emergency refuge centre if there is a fire, flood or other disaster, and there is no mobile coverage at the hall.

“I raised the issue with Telstra but was told that they have no plans to improve connectivity to the area.”

Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group (BWNG) provides essential in-home aged care and

disability services across Gloucester and the surrounding areas, including Barrington, and their support workers travel daily to visit clients in their homes.

“The communities of Gloucester and surrounding areas continue to struggle with poor and unreliable mobile phone coverage, but the impact is felt most heavily by some of our most vulnerable community members – older residents who rely on support services to remain safe and independent at home,” said BWNG CEO Anna Burley.

“Reliable phone service is not a luxury in this context

- it is a critical safety tool.

“Additionally, most, if not all, fall pendants and personal alarms are connected through Telstra and go through to a 24-hour monitoring centre.

“People in areas such as Barrington, Craven and further out do not have any suitable options for a personal falls alarm because of the lack of mobile service.

“We are calling on telecommunications providers and all levels of government to act urgently to improve phone coverage in and around Gloucester.

“Our elderly residents and the workers who care for them deserve the reassurance that, when help is needed, a call can always get through.”

However, it seems that

ED resuscitation beds on all shifts; and one nurse to three generally occupied ED treatment spaces and ED short-stay unit beds on all shifts.

The Safe Staffing Levels Taskforce was established to oversee the rollout of the Government’s commitment of 2480 full-time positions over four years.

The taskforce includes key leaders from the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA), NSW Health, and local health districts.

Telstra has no plans to improve its mobile service to Barrington.

“Our 4G coverage is available in Barrington, but the area’s terrain does affect it in some parts,” said a Telstra spokesperson.

“We continually investigate new opportunities to further

expand our mobile coverage, including co-investment opportunities such as the Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program and Regional Connectivity Program.

“Residents can improve their mobile coverage by using their nbn connection to access wi-fi.”

The joy in sharing a patchwork life

By Kim TEOH

WHILE many seniors fear going into a residential aged care facility for various reasons, 92-year-old Gail Cady simply trusted in her God.

Gail moved from Armidale some months ago to live with her daughter Vicky in Gloucester.

She had worried where she would spend the rest of her life; whether in Armidale

Expanded range of fashion frames and sunglasses

Latest eye care technology, including OCT scans

where she had lived for 45 years, or in Gloucester, or in care.

Gail’s health had declined so when there was a vacancy in Mirrabooka Place two months ago, she gladly accepted it.

"I'm so well looked after and am really happy here,” she now says.

“I've made several good friends and enjoy my days."

Gail first lived in Newcastle where she brought

Ramp access throughout Still local, still caring – now with better access in the heart of Gloucester

up her six children.

Despite being a busy mother, she sewed wedding dresses and her children's clothes.

When the family moved to Armidale, she found she had more time on her hands.

So she went head-on into spinning and sewing, and joined the Armidale quilting group, of which she is a Life Member.

She exhibited her quilts and kept on sewing.

Gail was super excited when she saw a notice informing everyone that Mirrabooka Place was hosting a morning tea for the Gloucester Patchwork Group.

A donated quilt is always included in the Welcome Baskets for new residents.

When the group came and exhibited their work and explained what was behind their sewing, Gail quickly brought out hers.

She was then invited to

their next meeting for a show and tell, which really made her day.

When Gail saw the exhibits, she was almost in tears.

"It was a very nostalgic moment for me,” she said, as memories came flooding back.

The Gloucester Patchwork Group meets in the Presbyterian Church Hall on Tyrell Street every third Tuesday of the month.

q Locals say mobile reception in the village of Barrington is inconsistent at best.

q Recruitment for more nurses is underway. File photo.

q Mirrabooka Place resident Gail Cady.

CONSUMERS are being reminded to stop, check, and protect themselves when transacting or interacting online.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is reinforcing the need to be vigilant as part of Scams Awareness Week, which runs until Friday 29 August.

Australians have already lost more than $147 million to a reported 25,000 scams in 2025, with NSW residents

More than $147m lost to scams in 2025 Rescue chopper attends Upper Allyn incident

losing $48 million. Phishing scams are still the most common.

These trick people into clicking links or entering details on websites impersonating trusted organisations like banks, governments, or other services.

More than 40 per cent of phishing scams reported to NSW Fair Trading relate to Facebook Marketplace and WhatsApp.

Minister for Better

Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong encourages buyers to trust their instincts.

“If a deal seems too good to be true, it often is.”

Identity theft, fake fundraising, false billing and online shopping scams are also common.

Often based overseas, fake or temporary online shops can seemingly pop-up overnight.

They employ “bait” advertising like urgent calls to action which pressure

shoppers into making a purchase before authenticity is verified.

“Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, targeting people through social media, messaging apps and impersonating trusted organisations,” Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said.

While Australian Consumer Law applies to online purchases made in Australia, purchases from overseas-based scammers

are difficult to resolve.

Those aged  65 and over continue to be disproportionately affected.

Shoppers are urged to research the seller, use secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal for buyer protection, and always beware of deals which may look too good to be true.

People who have been scammed by bogus shops should keep receipts and screenshots of correspondence to assist

with lodging a complaint with NSW Fair Trading.

Clear advice on spotting scam messages, managing privacy settings, securing devices, and monitoring financial information, including how to request a temporary credit ban if needed, is available at nsw. gov.au/id-support-nsw/ beprepared.

Complaints can also be lodged through NSW Fair Trading either online or by calling 13 32 20.

AROUND 1:00am on Sunday 24 August, a Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to a motor vehicle accident at Upper Allyn near Dungog. A male in his 40s was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics and the helicopter’s critical care medical team for chest injuries before being transported to John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition.

Entries for the Tea Cosy and Trivet competitions are due by 24th August.

All prizes awarded (including students) are cash and the overall Tea Cosy of the Year winner is awarded $500.

Students’ Artwork is due in by 31st August. All Preschools & schools are encouraged to enter art creations, which will be displayed during the tea party event. Contact DTP for more information.

Open Day is Wednesday 10th at 10am when the winners are announced, followed by a morning tea catered by Dungog High School. Anyone may attend.

Market stalls with Tea Cosies and Trivets sold by the contestants.

via our

Blitz on drunk and drugged drivers

NSW POLICE have targeted motorists affected by alcohol, drugs and fatigue during a three-day operation.

Operation RAID (Remove All Impaired Drivers) ran from 21-23 August across all NSW roads.

During this period, police conducted more than 87,000 breath tests and 9166 drug tests.

There were 186 drink driving offences detected and 660 positive drug samples.

Among these was an incident at Nabiac.

About 4pm on Friday 22 August, officers attached to Manning/Great Lakes Highway Patrol detected a vehicle allegedly driving over the speed limit on the Pacific Highway at Nabiac.

The driver, a 47-yearold man, was subjected to

a roadside drug test which returned a positive result to cannabis.

He was arrested and taken to Forster Police station where he was subjected to a secondary oral fluid test for further analysis.

A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed one kilogram of methamphetamine and almost $26,000 in cash.

He was charged with “supply prohibited drug large commercial quantity”, “possess prohibited drug” and “deal with property proceeds of crime less than $100,000”.

He was refused bail and appeared before Parramatta Local Court on Saturday.

Operation RAID also saw police across the state attend two fatal accidents and 261 major crashes.

Hunter Electorate Office

There were 5577 traffic infringement notices issued, including 1342 for speed related offences, 217 for mobile phone usage, and 71 seatbelt/helmet related offences.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said that police will continue to target dangerous drivers but real change starts with the choices people make before they even turn the key.

“These numbers are a sobering reminder that driving is a responsibility not a right.

“People don’t get into a car expecting their lives to change forever but it happens every day.

“A split second of carelessness or recklessness can mean someone never makes it home.”

Assistant Commissioner David Driver, Commander of Traffic and Highway Patrol, said the results of Operation RAID are a reminder that anyone who presents a danger on the road will become a focus.

“If you are contemplating

this type of dangerous behaviour, have a good think about your actions.

“Think about other innocent road users, those in your vehicle and the families that will be impacted by your actions or inactions, including your own.

“Our

Authorised

commitment to reducing road trauma doesn’t stop when Operation RAID concludes. Police will continue to maintain a strong presence on the roads.”

q Police conducted 9166 drug tests during the three-day blitz. Photo: NSW Police.

BEST ON THE BOX

MONDAY

MY KITCHEN RULES

SEVEN, 7.30pm

A brand-new search for the best home cooks in the country begins tonight in the beachside Sydney suburb of Cronulla. Here, highly competitive but perpetually smiley best mates Justin and Will (both pictured) hope to set the bar high and impress judges Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge with their instant restaurant, “Tropic Like it’s Hot”. The fellas are planning a pretty tasty looking menu inspired by their heritage, with dishes including Tongan-style ceviche, a red duck curry and South African fried doughnuts.

FRIDAY, August 29

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T is embroiled in a hostage situation, and tries unconventional negotiating tactics.

9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

9.45 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)

10.20 ABC Late News.

10.40 Austin. (PG, R)

11.10 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)

12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

TUESDAY

GROSSE POINTE GARDEN SOCIETY

SEVEN, 9.05pm

Though it wasn’t intended as such, it’s a good idea to consider this twisted suburban drama as a limited series, given that US TV network NBC has already nipped it in the bud. The intriguing premise surrounds Alice (AnnaSophia Robb), Brett (Ben Rappaport), Catherine (Aja Naomi King) and Birdie (Melissa Fumero, pictured), members of a Detroit garden club whose lives are entangled by scandal. Ripe with botanical language, the saucy saga takes a leaf out of Desperate Housewives book, as the green thumbs take turns to narrate their schemes. Tuesday’s premiere sows the seeds of a murder cover-up, but who killed whom, and why? That’s a mystery that will take 13 episodes to bloom.

WEDNESDAY

JAMES MAY: OUR MAN IN

After travelling the length of Italy and Japan in the first two seasons, James May (pictured) is mixing things up a bit for season three –travelling across India, coast to coast, from west to east. His journey begins in Mumbai where he rides a rickshaw, subjects himself to being the punch line (repeatedly) at a comedy club and finds himself really rather impressed with Dharavi, one of the world’s largest Slumdog Millionaire fame). After visiting a Bollywood legend and a fortune teller, May hits the road to Udaipur, which is rather less hectic than Mumbai. Here, he enjoys a spot of kite fighting, and celebrates the Hindu festival of Holi.

7.30 The Good Ship Murder. (PGv)

8.25 24 Hours That Changed The World. 9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (Premiere)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Catch Me A Killer. (Malsv) 11.35 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R) 1.30 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (Mav, R) 3.30 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGa, R) 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs explores Wynnum and Manly. 8.30 MOVIE: Downton Abbey. (2019, PGa, R) The Crawley family deals with all the drama of a visit by King George V and Queen Mary. Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville. 11.00 The Voice. (PG, R) Hosted by Sonia Kruger.

12.25 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)

1.25 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 26. Melbourne Storm v Sydney Roosters.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Melbourne Storm versus Sydney Roosters match, with news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: Rush Hour 2. (2001, Mlsv, R) Two detectives investigate a double murder. Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 10 News+.

7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple disagree on whether to leave Coburg North. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Hosted by Claudia Winkleman. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 10 News+.

SATURDAY, August 30

6.00

6.30 Back Roads: Harvey, WA. (R) Lisa Millar visits the town of Harvey, WA. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top

10.00 The Family Next Door. (Mls, R) Isabelle’s investigation zones in on Lulu.

10.55 I, Jack Wright. (Mlv, R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys. (Premiere)

8.30 Leonardo Da Vinci. (PGadn)

9.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (R)

10.20 Great Australian Walks. (PGa, R)

11.15 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)

2.35 SBS50. (PG, R)

2.40 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (R)

3.40 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGaw, R)

4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team enjoys the Pacific Island of Palau. 7.30 MOVIE: Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle. (2017, PGlsv, R) Four teenagers become trapped in a jungle-based video game as the playable characters. Kevin Hart, Dwayne Johnson. 10.00 MOVIE: Jumanji: The Next Level. (2019, PGlv, R) A group of friends re-enters a video game. Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart. 12.30 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 26. North Queensland Cowboys v Brisbane Broncos. 9.35 Soccer. English Premier League. Matchweek 3. Chelsea v Fulham.

11.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) Stabler testifies against the brotherhood. 12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R)

1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Rugby Union. Women’s Rugby World Cup. Pool A. USA v Australia.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. Sisters are desperate to sell their childhood home. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) The low blood sugar levels of a 23-year-old type-1 diabetic have led to a dangerous seizure.

9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. (PGl, R) 11.30 FBI: International. (Masv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6am Morning

Programs. 7.55 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 9.35 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard. (2009, PG) 11.15 Chino. (1973, M) 1pm American Pastoral. (2016, M) 3.00 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 4.45 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 6.25 Agatha Christie’s Crooked House. (2017, PG) 8.30 Looking

SUNDAY, August

6.00 First Communion. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Austin. (PG)

8.00 The Family Next Door. (Ml)

8.50 I, Jack Wright. (Mlv) The Wrights recover from Jack’s bombshell will.

9.35 MOVIE: BMX Bandits. (1983, PG, R) BMX riders become mixed up with bank robbers. Nicole Kidman.

11.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Final, Ml, R) 11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)

3.30 The Art Of... (Malns)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids Baking Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.50 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Titanic: Our Secret History. (PGa)

8.25 Titanic In Colour. (R)

9.20 Monster: The Mystery Of Loch Ness. (R)

10.20 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Mav, R)

12.50 Surviving An American Concentration Camp. (Ma, R)

1.55 Miscarriage And Me. (Mal, R)

2.45 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (PG, R) 3.45 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGa, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.

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6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGal) 8.25 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.30 24 Hours In Police Custody: Left For Dead. (Madl, R) Follows a police investigation.

10.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (Mav, R)

11.30 HMP Styal: Women Behind Bars. (MA15+av, R)

12.45 Jamestown. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

NBC Today.

Sunrise Early News.

Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 A Killer Makes A Call: Suffocation In Suburbia. (Mav) 11.10 The First 48. (MA15+a, R)

The Gulf. (Madlsv, R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham

MONDAY, September 1

6.00

6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Contraption Masters. 9.25 The Crystal Maze. 10.15 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (Return)

8.35 Abandoned Railways From Above. (PG, R)

9.30 Moulin Rouge: Yes

We Can-Can! (Mn, R)

10.30 SBS News. 11.00 Classified. (Malsv)

11.50 Tokyo Vice. (Malsv, R) 1.50 Blackport. (Mls, R) 2.45 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGa, R) 3.20 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (R) 4.15 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PG, R) 4.45 China 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. (PGa) Theo stands his ground. 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (Return, PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.20 The Rookie. (Mav) Ahead of Nune’s return home, Nolan looks for clues to locate Jason Wyler. 10.20 S.W.A.T. (Mv) 11.20 The Agenda Setters. 12.20 Hooten & The Lady. (Mav)

1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

6am Anton

Chekhov’s The Duel. Continued. (2010, PG) 7.25

The Movie Show. 7.55 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 10.15 Kompromat. (2022, M, French) 12.35pm Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 2.10 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 3.50 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 5.40 Finding You. (2020, PG) 7.55 The Unknown Country. (2022, PG) 9.30 Parallel Mothers. (2021, M, Spanish) 11.45 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, September 2

Grand Designs. (PG, R) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PGa, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PG) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Secret World Of Snacks. (PGas, R) 11.25 The Cranes Call. (Premiere, Malv) 1.05 New York Super Airport. (R) 3.55 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (R) 4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (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 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.05 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Premiere, M) Follows members of a suburban garden club. 10.05 Tik Tok: Murders Gone Viral: The Mother And Daughter Killers. (Mav, R)

The Agenda Setters.

Fairly Legal. (Mav, R)

Home Shopping. (R)

MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 8.40 The Unknown Country. (2022, PG) 10.20 Phantom Thread. (2017) 12.55pm Today We Fix The World. (2022, M, Spanish) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 Anton Chekhov’s The Duel. (2010, PG) 5.25 Mr Blake At Your Service! (2023, PG, French) 7.30 The Big Short. (2015, M) 9.55 Official Competition. (2021, M, Spanish) 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 what’s on at dungogroyalhotel.com.au or call us on 0418 443398

DRAMA (51)

9GEM (82) 9GEM (82)

WEDNESDAY, September 3

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (l, R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 James May: Our Man In India. (Return) 8.30 DNA Journey. (Ml) 9.35 Smilla’s Sense Of Snow. (M)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 COBRA. (Return, Mal)

12.00 Vigil. (Mav, R)

2.15 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (PGaw, R)

2.50 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (PGaw, R)

3.45 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, September 4

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Sonny and Eden manage cyclone Remi. 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL. 10.10 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hamish McLachlan chats with Sam Docherty. 10.55 Why Ships Crash. (PGa, R)

12.15 Imposters. (Madlv, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO

(R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.50 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Australian Road Trips. (Final, PG)

8.25 National Parks From Above: Ireland.

9.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+s)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Dopesick. (MA15+ad, R) 11.55 Blue Lights. (MA15+a, R) 1.55 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.45 World’s Most Amazing Festivals. (R) 3.20 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 4.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Remi hits rock bottom.

7.30 Football. AFL. First qualifying final. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.00 Kick Ons. A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 What The Killer Did Next: Nadine Aburas. (Mav, R)

12.30 Life. (Madv, R) 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

A Current Affair.

The Block. (PGl) 8.40 Clarkson’s Farm. (Ml)

Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)

9News Late. 11.20 Damian Lewis: Spy Wars. (Mv, R)

DRAMA (51)

9GEM (82)

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

Memorabilia Collection $95. 0409 863 898

COFFEE table, lovely walnut with 3 drawers $100 ono 0448 521 466

COLLECTERS editions empty Chivas Salute Whisky porcelain flagons with velvet covers and boxes. Make an offer. 4981 2713

DOUBLE Pine Bed w/good mattress. $100 4982 0063

SINGER hand sewing machines x 2, antique. Make an offer. 4982 3495

WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643

STAND

Ford Falcon LPG Very good condition

0431 607 774

SUBARU Liberty 1991, AWD, 5 spd manual, cruise control 300,330kms.One owner/driver from new regular serviced. $7500 Medowie 4982 9942 Re021025

2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $7,800. 0415 678 687 Re170625

VINTAGE cameras Offers accepted. 4982 8787

OPINION

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

On theCouch

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

Dear Jasminda,

“On the weekend, my partner and I went to a Murder Mystery Lunch. We have since decided that we would actually prefer to remain in character. Is it okay to do this indefinitely?

Cardinal Matteo Rossi.

Dear Cardinal,

I'm assuming that is your Murder Mystery name and not your current moniker and occupation.

Since I have no idea, from your conundrum, the role your partner-incrime played, I will use a bit of artistic licence and call her Isabella Conti (a respected art dealer who may know the whereabouts of Caravaggio's

Nativity Scene).

Cardinal (may I call you Cardinal?), there is nothing wrong with a bit of role play to spice up a relationship, but I will preempt several issues moving forward, particularly if you share not only a marital home, but a marital bed.

Isabella would have very good reason to feel uncomfortable during a mutual defrocking, particularly given several real-life cardinals' checkered pasts (not terribly arousing, Cardinal).

Then there is the matter of daily life.

I'm not sure Isabella Conti will cope with your excuse for refusing to mow the lawn: "I would ask that you show respect when I am in the midst of giving a homily"; getting home late, "in the grand scheme of things, the importance of mingling with laypeople at The Tavern cannot be overemphasised”; or packing the dishwasher, "Not now, Isabella, I have a diocesan plan to review."

Equally, Isabella may find that her role as a fine arts dealer interferes

News Of The Area

with the quotidian side of life.

How will the extended family cope when Isabella is unable to babysit because she is immersed in Il Giornale dell'Arte?

How much longer will it take to do the gardening when she is gathering rocks, grass clippings and mulch, not to be useful, but to engage in the philosophy and practice of Arte Povera.

There is also the matter of the murder, Cardinal.

Will you ever be beyond suspicion? Will Isabella?

Once your secrets are revealed, will you be able to look at each other in the same way?

And finally, at the necessary conclusion of your extended characterisation (the family's annual trip to Happy Campers Caravan Park), will Isabella be preconditioned (much like Pavlov's Dog) to only find you attractive when you're dressed in a scarlet cassock?

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Sunday stroll in Crowdy Bay National Park

MEMBERS of the Gloucester Environment Group enjoyed a welcome day of sunshine for their monthly bushwalk on Sunday 17 August.

Meeting at Gloucester Skate Park, they carpooled to Crowdy Head National Park and set out on the Diamond Head loop walk.

“As we headed south following the coast, blue skies and panoramic ocean views were the perfect antidote to a cold and wet winter,” said

Louise Duff.

“The Park has recovered remarkably well since the catastrophic bushfires in late 2019.”

Members stopped frequently to admire the many wildflowers that studded the heathland: pink Boronia, purple Kunzea, yellow “eggs and bacon” and white Wedding Bush all made an appearance.

The trail has been completely restored, just opening in early August this year, making the walk easier for people of any fitness level.

“We even met one of the contractor’s proudly showing off his handiwork to his Mum and were happy to congratulate him on his workmanship.

“Halfway around the loop we had a break at Kylie Tenant’s Hut for a picnic lunch.”

Kylie Tennant was

an acclaimed Australian author who spent time writing in her rustic hut at Diamond Head, finding inspiration in the area's natural beauty.

The hut, which burnt down in the fires, has also been restored.

“From there we walked past a mob of kangaroos grazing in the campground and returned to Diamond Head Beach through patches of forest, wetland and heath.

“Our seven-kilometre walk was completed with a delicious cake baked by Megan Dewsnap to celebrate Carolyn Davies’ birthday. There was only one candle so her age remains a mystery.”

The Gloucester Environment Group organises a range of activities including river care, koalaways, bird watching, native seed propagation, bushwalking and quarterly feasts.

To participate, contact gloucester.environment. group@gmail.com.

Fresh Sounds bringing musicians together

By Wendy BUSWELL

MUSIC has been an integral part of Ronald Wood's life from a very young age.

Now a resident of Gloucester, Ronald shares his passion for music with a group of musicians every second Saturday at Gloucester Creatives.

Originally a jam session, the group decided they wanted to create their own arrangements of songs.

As a result, the jam session has evolved into a concept called Fresh Sounds.

The idea behind Fresh Sounds is to move away from traditional jamming and encourage members to bring music to share, with the hope that the group will eventually refine the pieces for

performance.

Currently, there is a core group of about six musicians, but they are always welcoming new participants.

“We have guitarists, vocalists, drummers, and harmonica players,” said Ronald, “but all types of instruments and voices are welcome."

The group is open to musicians of any age and level of experience.

“You just have to love playing music with a group,” Ronald said.

"The group plays quite an eclectic mix of music, ranging from folk to rock to electronica, spanning the 50s to the 90s,” he continued.

“We are currently working on our own arrangement of Leonard Cohen's classic, ‘Hallelujah’.”

Christine Dodd, a recent resident of Gloucester, told News Of The Area, “The group was so welcoming.

“It was a fantastic way to meet like-minded people who enjoy playing music together.”

Members of the group come from diverse

backgrounds, which, according to Alexis Apfelbaum, allows the group to continually expand musically.

“We workshop songs and improvise, making it a great way to build confidence both musically and in performance,” Alexis explained.

The monthly Open Mic Night at the Gloucester Golf Club offers the group an opportunity to test their music in front of an audience.

The group’s next gathering will be on 6 September at Gloucester Creatives.

q The walkers ready to head off.

q Ronald Wood, Alexis Apfelbaum, Michael O’Hara, Jasmine Van Aalst, Christine Dodd and Jym McPhee.

By Trudy SCHULTZ

THE weather gave us a classic “four seasons in one day” morning. The Gloucester Scorpions took to the fields with energy and enthusiasm across all divisions. From our youngest Mini Roos right through to our Senior Men’s team, it was another exciting weekend of football.

Mini Roos

Proudly sponsored by Gloucester Valley Landscape Supplies

Our youngest Scorpions — proudly representing Australia Post Gloucester, Batter & Dough, and CalCo Surveyors — are growing in confidence each week!

Despite CalCo and Australia Post being short on numbers, every player showed fantastic spirit, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The focus on passing and shared play is really beginning to shine through on the field, and it’s exciting to see the improvement in every game.

Division 3

Sponsored by Kelly+Partners Chartered Accountants

Gloucester Landscapes vs Ollies Service Centre

What an entertaining match! Ollies’ may have been short on numbers, but they certainly weren’t

short on enthusiasm.

Gloucester Landscapes showed consistent teamwork throughout, making it a well-contested and enjoyable fixture from start to finish.

Great spirit from both sides — well done, Scorpions!

Level Electrical vs The Common

Level Electrical were low on numbers, but that didn’t stop both teams from delivering a fantastic performance. The match showcased real growth and growing confidence from all players, with plenty of skill, spirit, and determination on display. Great effort from everyone

Division 2

Falla wins Vets Golf double

By Peter WILDBLOOD

GAI Falla had a triumphant day with the Gloucester Veteran Golfers on Tuesday 19 August winning not just the day’s event but the final of the Radford Webb Match Play

The event was an Individual Stroke and was the first round of the Veterans Championships sponsored by Joyce and Roy Crichton.

The winner was Gai Falla with a net score of 74; Arthur Poynting and Carolyn Davies followed on 75 to pick up the first two ball trophies on offer. They were followed by Anne Wand 76, Ken Kelly and Rod Burrows 77 with the last trophy ball to Steve Hurworth 79.

Ken Kelly was the top putter on the day with an

excellent low score of 26 putts. Ken also won the Nearest-to-the-Pin trophy at the 6th and 15th holes an honour shared with the day’s heroine Gai Falla. Weather willing, the Gloucester Veterans will have played the second and final round of their championships on Tuesday 26 August with an Individual Stroke event. This coming Tuesday, 2 September, there will be an Individual Stableford for those Veteran golfers not travelling north on their annual golfing tour.

most pleasing was some of the assists and hard work for each other which proved to be the difference. Well done team.

Let's hope we can get in a training session this week and get back to our silkie best.

Gloucester 4 -Taree 0

Men’s Senior League

Gloucester vs Hallidays Point Barracudas

On Sunday, the Scorpions played a make-up game against the Barracudas, and what a tight contest it was! Both teams pushed hard, but Gloucester held strong and came away with a hard-fought 1–0 victory.

A great team effort and a well-earned result. Let’s get behind the team as they take the field again this weekend!

Carnival locked in Gloucester Scorpions Soccer Club

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16

“It’s a great opportunity for the local community to engage, not only through participation but as volunteers, spectators, supporters and hosts to participating family and friends,” Mayor Pontin said.

As well as seeing an expected $7.67million economic injection as a result of the three year partnership, the region will

welcome more than 3,700 visitors – equating to 15,076 bed nights.

Bowls NSW CEO Tim Rowe welcomed the sponsorship announcement that will see the event stay in the Barrington Coast region for the next three years.

“We’re thrilled to see the Women’s State Carnival remain in the Barrington Coast region,” he said.

“The partnership with MidCoast Council and our wonderful host venues

National Meals on Wheels Day 27 August 2025

Today we celebrate National Meals on Wheels Day, honouring the volunteers and staff who deliver not just meals, but kindness, connection, and care to our community.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, one meal at a time.

Season Update –

Gloucester Scorpions

As we head toward the end of the season, the committee has decided to extend the competition due to the challenging weather we’ve experienced.

Final Games & Grand Finals

Saturday 6th September

More details can be found on our Facebook page.

The Gloucester Scorpions would like to extend heartfelt thanks to every parent, team manager, volunteer, and supporter who helps bring game day together. Your time, energy, and commitment ensure that Saturday mornings run smoothly and on time.

has been instrumental in the event’s success, seeing consistent growth and record participation numbers.

“The State Carnival has a proud history spanning more than 90 years and is a true celebration of female participation in bowls.

“We look forward to working with Council and our host venues in delivering this fantastic event.”

The 2026 Women’s State Carnival will take place from Monday 4 to Friday 8 May at multiple clubs across the region, with Forster Bowling Club the main event host.

q Gloucester Scorpions Soccer Club.

Gloucester Study Hub opening soon

If you’re kickstarting a degree, retraining into a new industry or simply taking the first small step towards study, get in touch with us.

FREE STUDY

HUB + FACILITIES

Available 5am – Midnight for Registered TUC Gloucester students!

SCAN HERETOFIND OU T M !ERO

MIDCOAST Council has confirmed a three-year sponsorship with Bowls NSW to host the Women’s State Carnival from 2026 - 2028. The sponsorship agreement continues on from the success of the 2025 State Carnival which saw record participation numbers with over 1,000 female bowlers taking to the greens across more than 10 bowling clubs in the Barrington Coast region.

The Women’s State Carnival is the largest allfemale bowls participation event in the country, with a long history spanning over 90 years.

MidCoast Council Mayor Claire Pontin says entering into the three-year partnership is a coup for the region, delivering significant economic and tourism benefits.

“We’re excited to work with Bowls NSW on delivering this premier sporting event, and look forward to welcoming bowlers from across the state and beyond.

q The Women’s State Carnival is the largest all-female bowls participation event in the country, with a long history spanning over 90 years.