A MUCH-LOVED voice of community radio and a passionate advocate for Australasian music, former Nambucca Valley resident Rob Davidson has received national recognition with the inclusion of his radio series “Flashback Featured Artist” in the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) in Canberra.
The NFSA officially accepted the collection on 3 March 2025, preserving for posterity over 300 programs that chronicle the careers of Australian and
Each episode dives deep into an artist's career, showcasing both charttopping hits and the lesserknown singles that shaped the nation's popular music history.
Program lengths range from 25 to 108 minutes, reflecting the breadth of content and careers covered.
Rob launched Flashback Featured Artist in 2004, and it has aired on numerous community stations, currently including 2NVR Nambucca Valley Radio (105.9FM), Braidwood FM (88.9FM), 2ARM-FM Armidale (92.1FM), and 2GHR Greater Hume Radio Holbrook (96.7FM). The program highlights not only household names
q Nambucca Valley community radio presenter
Rob Davidson’s vast body of work is to be preserved for posterity by the National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra.
but also lesser-known artists whose influence was often localised but impactful.
Rob's journey in community radio began in Braidwood, NSW, after he moved from western Sydney in 1999.
With no local station, Davidson was central in founding Braidwood Community Radio, which launched on Australia Day 2003.
His efforts were recognised with a Cultural Achievement Award from the Tallaganda Shire
Council in 2004.
In 2015 Rob joined 2NVR in the Nambucca Valley, initially intending only to present.
However his commitment quickly led him to roles in sponsorship and finance, where he significantly increased the station’s income and community
engagement.
Though he moved away from the Nambucca Valley in 2019 for family reasons, Rob continues to produce and present his programs for 2NVR remotely.
His legacy at the station and across Australian community radio endures, not just through his
broadcasts, but now through their preservation in the NFSA.
With a lifelong belief that Australian talent could rival any in the world, Rob created Flashback Featured Artist to celebrate it.
Thanks to the NFSA, future generations will also be able to hear those stories.
‘Tell Your Tale’ writing comp launched
By Jen HETHERINGTON
ENTRIES are now open for Stuarts Point and District Community Organisation’s (SPaDCO) third annual short story competition.
The 2025 competition theme is ‘Tell Your Tale’.
The committee welcomes submissions from anywhere in the world, with the proviso that stories must relate to the SPaDCO district, which includes Eungai, Yarrahapinni, Grassy Head, Fishermans Reach and Stuarts Point.
“The competition is free to enter, and open to young and old, giving all budding writers an opportunity to give voice to their thoughts,” said SPaDCO’s Genevieve Lovell.
Following the competition, stories are compiled into an anthology of local tales.
“This is where we learn a little bit or a lot of each other’s stories,” said Heather Kind, a previous contributor to the anthology.
Local storyteller Greg Lewis was published
q This is the third year of SPaDCO’s writing competitions.
in the 2023 anthology, titled ‘Getting To The Point’.
“This was encouraging and fun, and gave me a new perspective on what we give and receive from our community,” he said.
“Never did I think my thoughts or stories would be published. I’m now working on another story.”
SPaDCO has invited judges relevant to the LGA, both Council and individuals, and a prize pool that supports local industry is on offer. For more information email jennyfires@hotmail. com or visit the SPaDCO social media pages.
Cowper candidates go head-to-head
at lively Kempsey event
FROM Page 1
was attended by around 100 people and proved to be a lively and fast-paced affair.
The Lower House and Upper House candidates included Wendy Firefly (The Greens), Greg Vigors (Labor), Geoffrey Marlow (Fusion Party), Pat Conaghan (Nationals), Chris Walsh (One Nation), Megan Mathew (Legalise Cannabis), Zeke Daley (Independent) and Senate hopeful Michael O’Neill (Heart Party).
Independent Caz Heise was ill and unable to attend.
Each was given two minutes to respond to questions ranging from how they would tackle inflationary pressures on the cost of living, to the lack of available housing, and rising energy prices.
Single mother of five and grandmother of three Megan Mathew, said she was running for the Legalise Cannabis Party because, “I’m sick of whinging and there’s no point whinging if you’re not going to stand up and do something about it.”
She said one way to ease
cost of living pressures would be to legalise cannabis as many are “paying upwards of $1200 a month to access medication that keeps them alive”.
She agreed with cutting the fuel excise and stopping supermarket price gouging, while advocating for Medicare to be broadened to include dental - among other health services.
Several conservative candidates on the panel expressed their anger at Australia’s “net zero” policy direction.
“We have this pivotal natural resource in Australia, it’s called coal,” Michael O’Neill of the Heart Party said.
“We ship it ‘en masse’ over to somewhere else, but we have this great ideology that we are saving the planet.
“This is an absurdity which doesn’t make sense, it is hurting the people and driving [up] our cost of power.”
Independent Zeke Daley, who is aged 18, wants to bring back manufacturing in Australia to improve employment and lower prices.
“Why are we exporting everything (raw materials) overseas and then importing everything (manufactured goods),” he said.
The Heart, One Nation and Nationals candidates said a large portion of new house prices was due to government fees and regulations.
“Some of the council and government costs add up to about 50 percent of the actual
q
build,” Nationals incumbent Pat Conaghan said.
Fusion Party’s Geoffrey Marlow wants to remove Land Tax and “uphaul” the “entire rental and homeownership system” in order to decrease the cost and accessibility of housing.
One Nation’s Chris Walsh is advocating to cut councils out of building processes; allow people to
access superannuation; and cut immigration to reduce housing prices.
Labor’s Greg Vigors spoke about the achievements of the current government.
“Housing Australia’s Future Fund has 55,000 low-income social housing projects in the pipeline being actually built,” he said.
“Labor has fully funded budgeted programs that are happening [now].”
Greens candidate Wendy Firefly caused a momentary shock when she replied that, “The cheapest way to improve
our cost of living and bring prices down for electricity, is to electrify everyone and everything.”
She explained that she meant every household, business and home should have solar and batteries installed to create “free, community-owned energy.”
Also absent from the list of 11 on the lower house ballot were Paul Templeton (Libertarian), Peter Jackel (Family First) and Geoffrey Shannon (Trumpet of Patriots).
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Candidates (L-R) Wendy Firefly (Greens), Greg Vigors (Labor), Geoffrey Marlow (Fusion), Pat Conaghan (Nationals), Chris Walsh (One Nation), Senate hopeful Michael O’Neill (Heart), Zeke Daley (Independent) and Megan Mathew (Legalise Cannabis).
A week of policy and funding announcements
IT has been another big week of campaigning in the seat of Cowper, with multiple funding and policy announcements.
Here is a summary of the releases received by News Of The Area.
On Monday, the National Party promised to provide $300,000 to Coffs Harbour youth sporting program RISE if the Coalition is successful at the Federal Election.
Federal Member and Nationals candidate for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the commitment would allow the program to continue in full for the next two years.
"With the issues we are seeing among our youth right across the country, it’s so important to recognise and safeguard our community driven organisations that are actively building a sense of support and belonging, and RISE Coffs Harbour is a great example,” Mr Conaghan said.
“RISE provides a structured curriculum that trains youth in technical football and team building skills and teaches positive values including trust, respect, discipline and patience.”
Late last week, Mr Conaghan promised $600,000 to Macksville youth program ShoreTrack.
"Tackling the issue of disenfranchised youth in our community requires a multifaceted approach, and part of that approach is ensuring that successful programs like ShoreTrack are adequately supported to expand and thrive not just for today but into the future,” Mr Conaghan said.
“The training courses they provide not only equip our young people with important skills for future employment, they provide a support system that enhances self-worth and confidence in student-aged
kids that have fallen through the cracks of our traditional education systems.”
The Coalition also promised $11 million for phase three of Bellingen Shire Council’s Sewering Coastal Villages project, if elected to government.
The National party say the funding will allow for an additional 30 new residential properties to connect to the system and “double industrial capacity at Raleigh”.
Mr Conaghan said by connecting sewerage, the project could facilitate muchneeded housing in Repton, Raleigh and Urunga.
As reported in News Of The Area last week, construction on the project’s second stage is now underway.
Bellingen Shire Council originally applied for third stage funding in 2022 under the previous government’s Building Better Regions Fund, before the funding program was discontinued.
q Nationals candidate Pat Conaghan announcing funds for ShoreTrack.
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
HOUSEHOLD BULKY GOODS COLLECTION 2025
(THERE ARE NO DESIGNATED COLLECTION POINTS IN ANY RURAL AREAS)
Coffs Coast Waste Service will be conducting household bulky good collections from residential properties.
There will be no collection points other than from the frontages of properties on the collection routes that receive a bin service and only residents of those properties can put waste out for collection.
In previous years residents in rural areas have dumped significant quantities of waste at unauthorised sites. This illegal dumping increased the bulky goods collection cost by more than $40,000 which is excessive and not sustainable. Should the illegal dumping continue, Council will reconsider the provision of a bulky goods collection services within the valley.
If you live on a rural property which does not receive a weekly bin service at the front of your property or you have opted to take the bins to the collection route, there is no bulky goods collection service available. You must dispose of your bulky goods at the Nambucca Waste Facility.
If you live on a collection route, please download the Coffs Coast Waste Service App from the App Store or visit www.coffscoastwaste.com.au for specific collection dates relating to your property.
For further information please or contact Coffs Coast Waste Services Hotline on 1800 265 495
Acceptable Items Unacceptable Items
Soft furnishings
Household carpet and lino
Household non-recyclables
Mattresses
Fridges
Freezers
Dishwashers
Household metal items
Aluminum frames
Domestic food waste
Building materials
Hazardous materials inc paint & asbestos
Medical waste materials
Liquid waste materials
Tyres & car parts
Plate glass and mirrors
Gas bottles / Oil heaters
PLEASE NOTE
A maximum of 3 cubic metres (approximately 1 box trailer load) of acceptable household waste items not exceeding 1.5 metres in length are to be place at the kerb no sooner than the day before the commencement date of the collection.
Materials placed out before or after the collection dates or at unauthorised sites will be defined as illegal dumping with fines being issued by Councils Rangers.
Waste Services Coordinator PO BOX 177
NAMBUCCA VALLEY COUNCIL
02 6568 0244
MACKSVILLE NSW 2447
“An elected Coalition Government will right that wrong and get this funding into these works straight away, to not only safeguard our current infrastructure, but lay the groundwork for new housing and industry in the future,” Mr Conaghan said.
Meanwhile, Independent candidate Caz Heise called
for the establishment of a federally-funded “Local Energy Hub” in Cowper, to help local households, farms and small businesses “cut power bills, reduce emissions, and take advantage of the shift to cleaner, cheaper energy”.
She said the Hub would operate as an outreach centre, staffed by energy experts who provide face-to-face advice and connect people with
grants, installers and proven solutions.
“A Local Energy Hub in Cowper would provide clear, practical advice, connect people with funding options, and make it easier to cut bills and electrify our homes and businesses.”
The Hub model builds on existing council and community programs in towns like Hay, Narrabri and
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
INTRODUCTION OF RESTRICTED PARKING AREAS
Council is considering introducing restricted parking areas to reduce the occurrence of illegal camping in hotspot areas within the Nambucca Valley. The proposed restricted parking areas are aimed to reduce the occurrence of illegal camping by making it easier for Council to regulate.
The proposed restricted parking areas will only be applicable to vehicles such as motor homes, caravans, campervans, etc. The restricted parking areas will mean that these types of vehicles cannot park in the restricted parking areas between the hours of 4pm-8am.
The locations where the restricted parking areas are proposed to be implemented are:
• Valla Beach Road carpark, Valla Beach.
• Thompson Street Carpark, Valla Beach.
Main Beach carpark, Nambucca Heads
• Liston Street Headland carpark, Nambucca Heads.
• Newry Street, Nambucca Heads – from the Lions Lookout to Bilbys Beach.
• Shelly Beach carpark, Nambucca Heads
• V-wall carpark, Nambucca Heads
Gordon Park carpark, Nambucca Heads
• Bellwood Park carpark, Nambucca Heads
• Stuarts Island carpark, Nambucca Heads
• Day reserve - Short Street, Scotts Head
• Ferry Street boat and trailer carpark, North Macksville
Council would like to hear from you. Written submissions are encouraged and will be received up until 16 May 2025. Please note that any submission may be incorporated in a Council business paper or otherwise publicly disclosed.
Address written submissions to the General Manager, Nambucca Valley Council, PO Box 177, Macksville or via email to council@nambucca.nsw.gov.au.
Enquiries to Daniel Walsh Manager Development & Environment (02) 6568 0259.
Mitchell.
Spokesperson for the national Local Energy Hubs campaign, Pat Simons, welcomed the call for a Cowper hub and said dozens of other communities across regional Australia are pushing for the same.
“We have an opportunity right now to ensure Australia’s shift to renewables delivers local, long-term benefits for regional communities,” Mr Simons said.
Ms Heise also condemned the Coalition’s proposed cuts to public service jobs.
“The proposal by Peter Dutton and supported by the Nationals will impact aged care and disability services, and our ability to respond to emergencies or provide pensioners, veterans and their families with life saving support.”
The Independent candidate pointed to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs as a key example of the damage caused by public sector cuts.
“Years of underfunding left veterans without timely access to support,” she said.
“Only recent investment in rebuilding DVA staffing levels has begun to reverse the backlog and improve services.
“Any cuts to staffing of
the Department of Veteran Affairs will result in increased processing times for veteran claims, thereby increasing their stress levels, particularly for those suffering mental health issues.”
Additionally, Ms Heise pledged to collaborate with Dementia Australia on the “critical issues facing Australians living with dementia and their families”, stressing the need for immediate action at all levels of government.
Labor candidate Greg Vigors meanwhile has called for a strong emphasis from Cowper candidates on mental health issues in the electorate.
“In the short time we have left until the election, I would like to hear from all candidates on how they see this critically important issue and their plans to make a difference,” he said.
“It affects so many families in our region.
“Most of us either suffer personally from mental health issues or have someone close to them who does.
“A Federal Election is the perfect time for all of us to ask our prospective representatives how they will address this critically important issue.”
Mr Vigors told NOTA he is optimistic the funding for Medicare mental health centres recently announced by the Albanese Government
can make a “big difference”.
He also applauded the government’s planned expansion and extension of Headspace services.
“Headspace already provides much needed free mental health care and support for people aged 12 to 25.
“The recent announcement expands those services through Headspace Plus centres and youth specialist care centres, where
there will be a greater level of clinical support for young people with more serious and complex mental health issues.
“Those new options will drastically reduce the need for acute hospital care for young people with mental health issues.
“It means we have a much greater capacity to keep our young people out of hospital but still provide the specialist care they need.”
q Independent Caz Heise with energy hub advocates Stuart Watson and Rob Snow.
q Labor’s Greg Vigors is calling on all Cowper candidates to make mental health a major focus of the campaign.
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5,000 copies
Honouring our Anzacs
By Mick BIRTLES
RESIDENTS of the Nambucca Valley are encouraged by ex-service organisations and community groups to attend ANZAC Day services across the region to honour the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of our servicemen and women.
Whether at a dawn service, community march, or commemorative ceremony, these gatherings offer a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the legacy of those who served and continue to serve and the impact of conflict on our nation.
With events taking place in towns and villages throughout the Valley - including Macksville, Bowraville, Nambucca Heads, Stuarts Point, Taylors Arm, and Utungun - all members of the community are invited to come together in remembrance.
Below are the key times and locations for ANZAC Day services: Bowraville
• Dawn Service: 5.30am at the Cenotaph
• Graveside Service: 8.00am at Bowraville Cemetery
• Main March: 10.00am from the Ex-Services Club
• ANZAC Day Service: 10.10am at the Cenotaph
• Luncheon: 12.30pm at Bowraville Ex-Services Club
Stuarts Point
• Assemble: 10.30am at the Bowling Club
• March to Memorial: Steps off at 10.40am
• Service: 11.00am–11.45am
• Lunch and activities: From 12 noon at the Bowling Club, all welcome
Scotts Head
• Dawn Service above Little Beach
Macksville
Thursday, 24 April 2025
• Kapyong Sunset Service: 5.30pm at the Cenotaph, River Street
Friday, 25 April 2025
• Dawn Service: 5.30am at the Cenotaph, River Street
• Cemetery Service: 8.30am at Macksville Cemetery, Wallace Street
• Main March: Form up at 10.30am in Princess Street
• Main Service: 11.00am at the Cenotaph, River Street
q ANZAC Day 2025 commemoration events will be held in multiple locations across the
Heads
• Dawn Service: 5.30am
• March: Form up at 8.15am on Bowra Street for 8.30am step-off
• Mid-Morning Service: Approximately 9.00am upon arrival of marchers
Taylors Arm
• Dawn Service: 5.30am at the Cenotaph
• Day Service: 1.00pm at the Cenotaph
• Light Refreshments: Provided after both services at the "Pub with No Beer"
Utungun
• Sunset Service: 5.00pm at Utungun Hall
• Light refreshments following the service, all welcome
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
Council advises that Nambucca Valley Council’s Waste Management Facility will be closed on Anzac Day: Friday 25 April 2025
The facility will re-open after the Public Holiday closure during normal business hours 8:00AM to 4:00PM.
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
Nambucca
Nambucca Valley.
Family First announces policies and candidates
By Ned COWIE
FAMILY FIRST leader Lyle Shelton announced 100 new candidates and unveiled his policy platform for the upcoming Federal election at a meeting in Coffs Harbour last week.
The party is campaigning on four main platforms: lower prices for energy through opening of more coal and gas power stations; making housing cheaper by cutting red tape, releasing more land and slowing immigration; banning biological males from girls’ sports; and protecting the rights of parents in educational choices (i.e. the right of schools to choose staff who uphold their stated values).
Shelton, a former youth pastor and conservative lobbyist, met with around 50 supporters at Boambee East last Saturday evening and introduced four new candidates for the electorates of Paterson, Page, Newcastle and Cowper.
As previously reported in NOTA, Kempsey local and former pastor Peter Jackel will contest the seat of
Cowper for the party in next month’s Federal election.
Established in 2021 by two former state Labor ministers, the fundamental goal of the Family First Party is to protect religious freedoms and to challenge what the party believes are radical antifamily attitudes in modern politics.
In 2022 the party announced that Shelton, a former Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) leader, had been appointed its National Director.
“We’ve been on the road a lot over the last couple of years to fan the flames of what I think is a very exciting political movement and it's so gratifying to get to this election and have 100 candidates (across the country) standing for the party,” Mr Shelton told NOTA.
He also revealed a series of advertisements the party has funded to be broadcast across media over the next few weeks.
Mr Shelton will stand as a candidate for the NSW Senate on 3 May.
Trumpet of Patriots contesting Cowper
GEOFFREY Shannon will contest the seat of Cowper for Trumpet of Patriots in the 3 May Federal Election.
A property developer and debt resolution specialist, Mr Shannon describes himself as “an advocate for people in financial distress”.
“I am the most qualified person on the ticket as to the cost-of-living crisis,” he told NOTA.
Mr Shannon, the founder of activist group Unhappy Banking,
is well known for his years-long crusades against the major banks and their treatment of customers.
“My advocacy role in respect of banking issues since 2008 places me in a position unlike any other candidate,” he said.
“Due to my role in exposing banks… I was also targeted with the view to have me discredited.”
In November 2023, after a lengthy legal battle, Mr Shannon was found not guilty of managing a corporation while disqualified.
Mr Shannon said the Trumpets of Patriots (ToP) would bring “commonsense policies” to parliament to help “everyday Australians”.
“I know Clive Palmer personally and I've witnessed the awesome deeds he has done for so many
which he doesn't promote, nor does the media publish.
“The current major parties are completely out of touch.
“It's a job for which they get handsomely rewarded for life after serving a period of a mere eight years in politics. It's just a job for them, unlike someone like myself.”
For four years until August 2024, Mr Shannon provided full time care for his mother who was suffering with Alzheimer’s disease, an experience he says made him a “massive supporter for all those people that care for the elderly and also all our nurses, doctors, ambos as well as police”.
Crime prevention is high on his campaign priority list, after being a victim of a break and enter in 2022 which caused him spinal issues.
q Family First senate candidate Lyle Shelton and Cowper candidate Peter Jackel at a party meeting in Boambee East last week.
q Geoffrey Shannon is the Trumpet of Patriots candidate for Cowper.
Nationals announce $20 billion future fund
By Dominic GIANNINI and Andrew BROWN, AAP
RURAL and regional Australians could share in billions of dollars to fill gaps in infrastructure, childcare and health services that local authorities can't afford.
The Nationals have pledged a regional Australian future fund worth $20 billion, if the coalition wins the 3 May election, with $1 billion to be set aside for projects each year.
The junior coalition partner has denied the money would be used for pork barrelling.
Nationals leader David Littleproud said the investment fund means regional areas won't have to squabble over general federal government money.
"We're always fighting in regional Australia to get that last mile of infrastructure spend that doesn't fit in the normal pots of money," he said.
"This is just about making sure that we have that reliable amount of
funding that's there year in, year out, and then we're not having to fight for it every year."
The regional fund would be set up with $5 billion in funding sourced from Labor's program for green energy and transmission line construction, which the coalition plans to scrap.
The remainder of the money would be gathered from budget windfalls from higher commodity prices - which often boosts government coffers - until it adds up to $20 billion.
The coalition has also pledged to set up a second fund, called the future generations fund, which would be used to pay down government debt.
Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor said mining and commodity windfalls would be turned into assets under the funds.
"These funds will be about future generations of Australians and investments that are necessary for them to have the best possible life they can have," he told reporters in Sydney.
The opposition had previously pledged to scrap Labor's housing Australia future fund, as well with the national reconstruction fund worth $10 billion and $15 billion, respectively.
Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said independent analysis would be used to determine how the money would be spent, rejecting claims it would be used to shore up support in seats held by the Nationals in parliament.
"You don't have to go very far outside of our capital cities to see the degradation of our road network," she said.
"That means every single Australian ends up paying more for their food, more for their goods because of the impact on our freight supply chain."
The coalition also plans to legislate the funds so they can't be easily scrapped by future governments.
The money would be distributed through a competitive grants process to not-for-profits for projects like expanding a childcare centre or boosting the number of regional Commonwealth-supported university placements.
Fusion Party hoping to make impact in Cowper
THE Fusion Party has selected Geoffrey Marlow as its candidate for Cowper in the Federal Election.
The party was formed in 2021 through an amalgamation of the Science Party, Pirate Party, Secular Party, Vote Planet, and Climate Change Justice Party.
It strives for a “free, fair, and innovative society for current and future generations, with meaningful work to meet the critical social and ecological challenges of our times”.
“We are a movement focused on a fair and inclusive society for every single Australian with equality for all rather than a masked equity for some,” said Mr Marlow.
“We aim to harness new and innovative industries and bring Australian health and civil and digital liberties to the forefront of our attention.
“We are striving for a clear and transparent future of parliament, bringing with it a new era of people-powered government so that the multilayered effects of democracy can truly be felt.”
One of the party’s key policy focuses is whistleblower protection.
“Fusion has whistleblower policies to protect and secure those who are currently condemned and persecuted for blowing the lid on some of our atrocities being hidden,” Mr Marlow said.
They are also advocating for “new and inventive avenues” to create a more sustainable, suitable and evenly spread housing market.
Mr Marlow said the “blue
collar people” of Australia have been “shoved aside and forgotten, swept under the rug and left in the dust for far too long”.
“We are nothing without the voice of our voters, but without our voice, the Australian parliament simply won't hear them.
“It’s time for Fusion to be a productive and innovative thorn in the side of the corporations that the preferred parties have now become.”
www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR 2026 AUSTRALIA DAY EVENT
Nambucca Valley Council invites community groups in the Nambucca Valley to submit an Expression of Interest to host the 2026 Australia Day Community Event. This event would remain separate to the awards ceremony which is run by Council. The event will be a community orientated family friendly event, focussing on coming together as a community in the Nambucca Valley.
In previous years the National Australia Day Council have offered grants in their Australia Day Community Events Grants Program. Information is usually sent out in September/October each year.
Please submit your proposal by 4.00pm Friday 2 May 2025 to council@nambucca. nsw.gov.au.
ENQUIRIES TO: Kelly Pacey, Executive Assistant to the General Manager 02 6568 0287.
q David Littleproud is promising rural dwellers their own pot of money. Photo: Dominic Giannini/AAP
q Fusion Party candidate Geoff Marlow.
New reuse and repair directory
By Andrea FERRARI
them find
and
The directory is a userfriendly platform connecting people with skilled repairers, second-hand stores, and
From clothing and
appliances to furniture and bicycles, the directory lists local businesses that prioritise repair and reuse over waste.
"Reuse and Repair practices are crucial to a circular economy," Midwaste Programs Officer Danielle Blenkhorn told News Of The Area.
"By fixing and reusing what we already have, we are reducing waste, saving resources, and supporting local businesses.
“This directory makes it easy for residents to find repair services and make a positive impact on
our region’s sustainability efforts.”
Mindful of the waste caused by following fast fashion, Mickey Hawkes of Mickey's Clothing Alterations in Macksville has made a business out of mending and remaking clothes.
“Repairing a loved garment is a beautiful way to keep a favourite piece and help reduce fast fashion
Bestsellers converge at writers festival
“THE Book Thief” author
Markus Zusak is one of many bestselling authors converging on Bellingen this June long weekend, and he can’t wait to meet readers in such a vibrant and relaxed setting.
“I’ve been lucky to go to festivals around the world, but there’s something extra welcoming about regional festivals,” Markus said.
“I feel more at home there,
and the people are really open.
“There’s more space, and yet it’s more intimate. It’s less of that idea of get ‘em in, get ‘em out, which can happen at the big festivals, like in Sydney or Melbourne.”
Featuring over 30 highprofile guests, the 2025 festival is expected to be the most popular event in the festival’s history.
“I can see [this festival]
isn’t just going through the motions.
"They want to make it different for the audience and for the writers, so I think that makes for a really exciting festival and keeps us all on our toes.”
Markus will first appear at the panel Mortality & Mercy with Courtney Collins and Adam Norris, and then in conversation with Miles
Franklin-winning author Tara June Winch.
“I love [Tara’s] writing, her spirit, so I’m really excited about that. But also the event with Adam and Courtney.
“No one’s really come up with a session like that before, which is hard to believe since it’s been 20 years of The Book Thief and Death being out in the world! So I’m really looking forward to it.”
waste and it's kinder to your wallet,” she said.
“Reuse, repair, recycle… it's a great way to make a better world, you win, and the environment does too, and if you're tired of it there's plenty of ways to donate if they become unwanted items by you.”
In NSW, reuse and resale saves the community $432 million each year and diverts about 49,900 tonnes from landfill, according to Charitable Reuse Australia’s NSW Reuse Impact study.
Residents are encouraged to explore, share, and suggest new businesses or initiatives to be included.
Local businesses offering repair services in Bellingen, Nambucca, and Coffs Harbour are invited to list themselves on the directory for free. Visit midwaste.org.au/ register-to-reuse-and-repair
q Repairing and remaking clothes gives the item a new look.
q Shoe repair saves money and waste.
q Markus Zusak.
Multibillion-dollar benefit of reproductive leave
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
AUSTRALIA loses more than $21 billion in productivity every year due to absenteeism but providing workers with one day of reproductive leave a month would significantly mitigate this economic cost.
A report into the costs and benefits of implementing a universal reproductive health leave entitlement has found the policy would improve mental health and workforce retention.
It would also reduce presenteeism, the act of working while unwell or in pain, which significantly contributes to annual productivity losses from reduced efficiency, and prolongs ill-health.
The Health Services Union
(HSU) is calling for a 12-day reproductive leave policy which would cost $1.7 billion annually, or $140 per worker.
El Jones has suffered from debilitating pain and excessive bleeding since her first period at 11 years old.
But it took 21 years to be formally diagnosed with endometriosis, a reproductive condition that affects one in seven women.
"It has definitely impacted my ability on the kind of work I could do," El told AAP.
"It limited me to opportunities that were midto-low responsibility where I didn't feel like I would let people down if I called in sick, because you do feel that you are disappointing people and not pulling your weight."
Menstrual pain affects more than 50 per cent of
Behaviour programs a piece of the puzzle to end abuse
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
BREAKING the cycle of domestic and family violence requires further commitment to early intervention and programs that support men, anti-violence advocates say.
Men's behaviour change programs have been used in Australia to work with perpetrators of domestic and family violence to reduce or prevent abuse towards a partner or family member.
working women, and 74 percent of women aged 45 to 55 reported menopause symptoms, with 17 per cent requiring extended leave.
Vasectomies and hysterectomies are also common, particularly for men and women aged 35 to 44 years.
Workers surveyed for the report said they often used sick leave or unpaid time off, with 44 percent taking unpaid leave when they had symptoms.
This was not out of choice but out of a lack of leave options.
"By rolling out a universal entitlement of 12 days a year, we will give all workers, particularly women, dignity and agency to be a part of a workforce that doesn't currently reflect our needs,"
the union's national senior assistant secretary Kate Marshall said.
"This is not sick leave - work can be extremely difficult when you are dealing with pain or reproductive conditions."
In 2024, the Queensland government introduced 10 days' of paid reproductive leave for the state's public servants.
But unless it became a national employment standard, too many workers would continue to miss out.
"Reproductive needs are still highly stigmatised and workers fear discrimination for taking leave for anything relating to their reproductive organs," HSU national secretary Lloyd Williams said.
"That shouldn't be the culture we accept."
Music exam success for Valla student
By Ned COWIE
VALLA student Alexia Smith has attained a distinction with a score of 99 percent on a Certificate of Music (C-Mus) in Contemporary Vocal with the Australian Guild of Music (AGMS).
The year 10 student from St John Paul College in Coffs Harbour has been studying singing for six years.
According to Alexia’s Macksville-based music
Research by Australia's National Research Organisation for Women's Safety (ANROWS) has found that while the programs are not the only solution to ending violence, they are part of the puzzle.
"We need programs that hold men to account at the same time as we help them to stop being violent," ANROWS chief executive Tessa BoydCaine told AAP.
"If we're serious about ending domestic, family and sexual violence, we must address the behaviour of those who cause harm, holding men who use violence accountable while supporting
teacher Carmel Gutteridge, this award represents the culmination of many months of work for the promising student.
“We (her family and I) are just so proud of Alexia,” Carmel said.
“She has worked terribly hard and has a very promising career in front of her.
“I'm really excited to see where she goes from here."
Alexia is well known in the Nambucca Valley and
them to change."
The programs provide an opportunity for men to engage with support workers one-on-one as well as interact in a group setting to be held accountable by their peers.
But Dr Boyd-Caine said while there was growing interest in the programs, not everyone who used violence would engage with the service.
"It takes a long time to change behaviours and attitudes and expecting transformational change from one program is unrealistic," she said.
"We need a whole of system response and
Coffs Harbour region, having taken part regularly in school concerts, Christmas carol events, and performances at various clubs.
“I'm just so grateful to my Mum and my teacher for giving me the opportunity to learn music,” Alexia said.
“I wish more children could be given the chance to express themselves through song.”
The talented teenager’s other interests include
programs like this do play a key role, but they're not the only thing to rely on."
The ANROWS research found positive outcomes at the end of a program were most likely to be incremental in terms of reducing violent and controlling behaviours.
Outcomes also varied substantially between program participants.
It called for the programs to be better funded to provide tailored, holistic and timely services that could support meaningful behaviour change.
ANROWS found longterm support was needed for lasting change and tailored
creative arts as well as sports such as basketball, netball, and soccer.
Although she dreams of becoming a professional singer, Alexia also professes a love of animals and would one day like to work with small animals as a veterinarian.
“They are two very different interests I know, but I really couldn’t choose between the two at the moment.”
approaches worked better than a one-size-fits-all approach.
It also found coordination with other services improved outcomes and that enhanced safety for women and children could be achieved, even if little or no behavioural change occurred.
"Programs need the right conditions to be effective," Dr Boyd-Caine said.
"This guidance ensures consistency and prioritises survivor safety."
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
Lifeline 13 11 14
q Reproductive issues contribute to an estimated cost of $21.3 billion from lost working days. Photo: Jane Dempster/AAP PHOTOS.
q Alexia received her award at a ceremony in Brisbane from the Australian Guild of Music’s piano and vocal examiner, Anthony McDonald.
• Kapyong Sunset Service at the War Memorial, Thursday 24 April 2025 at 5.30pm
• Dawn Service at the War Memorial Friday 25 April 2025 at 5.30am
• Cemetery Service at the Macksville Cemetery, Friday 25 April 2025 at 8.30am
• Main Service at the War Memorial Friday 25 April 2025 at 11.00am Parade form up from 10.30am in Princess Street
Anglican Church addressing DV issues
By Jen HETHERINGTON
SHOPPERS may have noticed the Anglican Parish of the Nambucca Valley holding street stalls throughout the district, focused
primarily on awareness about domestic and family violence.
These casual occasions are a lead up to a free community event featuring Reverend Tracy Lauerson, the National Program Manager of the Anglican Church Families and Culture Commission.
The commission was created to help the church examine and address issues related to family
q The street stall in Macksville on Thursday morning, 10 April.
violence affecting members of the church and to empower the wellbeing of families and women in its church communities.
“Reverend Tracy is coming to speak at a free community event at Macksville RSL at 2pm on Saturday, 3 May 2025,” said Parish Secretary Jenny Weier.
“The topics are: ‘Why is domestic violence so prevalent in society today?’ and ‘What can we do about it?’.”
Afternoon tea will be provided.
According to domestic violence prevention organisation Our Watch,
“In Australia, intimate partner violence contributes to more death, disability and illness in women aged 25 to 44 than any other preventable risk factor and domestic or family violence is a leading driver of homelessness for women.”
The Anglican Parish of Nambucca Valley states, “So many people’s lives are affected by violence within their local communities.
“Our Church wants to respond, to give hope and love to those affected and voice our support for the government and church initiatives to end family violence.
Record number of sea turtle nests rescued before cyclone
HUNDREDS of baby sea turtles were released into the ocean after a rapid response team rescued a record number of eggs from North Coast beaches in the lead up to ExTropical Cyclone Alfred.
Trained staff and volunteers from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and NSW TurtleWatch undertook the state’s largest-ever relocation of turtle eggs from nine beaches between Tweed Heads and the Camden Haven, to save nests before huge waves inundated them.
NSW TurtleWatch Project Officer Merryn Dunleavy said more than 300 hours were spent on the beach monitoring, rescuing and relocating these eggs in the lead up to the weather event.
“Our team worked around the clock in heavy rain, waves and wild and windy conditions, to ensure these nests could be relocated to safety.
“Each of our nests are very loved by our local communities so it was great to confirm to them that the nests had been rescued and will now have a chance at survival.
“For our rescued nests that
have already hatched, we have seen hatching success rates between 85 and 96 percent.”
More than 1,000 eggs from nine endangered loggerhead turtle nests were carefully relocated into nine incubators.
Seven of the incubators were 45-litre eskies fitted with sand, heat pads, thermostats and temperature monitors.
The operation was incredibly delicate, ensuring the eggs maintained their original vertical orientation during transportation and the incubators remained at 26.5 degrees Celsius.
After a ten day wait, the first eggs hatched, and 317 turtle hatchlings were successfully released at North Kingscliff and Seven Mile beaches, followed by more at Wooli Beach.
Earlier this month, 51 turtle hatchlings were released at North Haven Beach, 19 days after being rescued.
Another 121 hatchlings were released at Fingal Head Beach.
Four turtle nests remain in incubators and wildlife rehabilitators are keeping a close eye-out for cracked shells and
emerging hatchlings.
A tenth clutch at Casuarina Beach was rescued in situ, and hatchlings were released that same day.
Four turtle nests remain in incubators and wildlife rehabilitators are keeping a close eye-out for cracked shells and emerging hatchlings.
A tenth clutch at Casuarina Beach was rescued in situ, and hatchlings were released that same day.
Turtle hatchlings are released at low tide to allow turtles to run down the beach – an important part
“However, there is also a role that ordinary people can play by being informed about what is being done nationally and locally.”
As an ongoing initiative of the Red Rose Foundation of Australia, the parish is in the process of installing a ‘Red Bench’ at Anglican churches in Macksville, Bowraville, Nambucca Heads and Stuarts Point.
“The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible,” the foundation states.
of natal homing for these threatened species.
They will swim across the Pacific Ocean and up the South American coast, before returning to eastern Australia in years to come, to lay their own nests.
The pre-cyclone rapid rescue operation was the largest on record in NSW in terms of numbers of nests, eggs and incubators and the spread of beaches.
The 2024-25 summer was also record-breaking, becoming NSW’s biggest turtle nesting season.
A total of 18 sea turtle nests were found on beaches, up from 13 last summer.
q Several loggerhead turtle hatchlings head for the ocean. Photo: N Brookhouse.
q Releasing loggerhead turtle hatchlings at North Haven Beach. Photo: N Brookhouse.
q Church members sharing awareness about domestic and family violence.
Loneliness triples women's risk of dying early: study
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
WOMEN who feel lonely over an extended period are three times more likely to die early than those who don't.
Research by the University of Sydney has for the first time identified a causal link between loneliness and early death among middle-aged Australian women.
The research analysed data from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health, which looks at factors contributing to the health of more than 57,000 women.
Researchers looked at women aged between 48 and 55 and tracked their health over 15 years.
Women who did not report loneliness in the 15-year period had a five per cent risk of dying.
But for women who reported feeling lonely throughout the study period, their risk of death tripled to 15 percent.
Loneliness has been linked to adverse health including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and the development of dementia.
"Loneliness is a common experience worldwide - as many as one in three Australian adults feeling lonely during their lives," senior report author Melody Ding said.
"But when feeling lonely becomes chronic or persists longterm, it may impact a person's health," she said.
There is no equivalent longitudinal data looking at the long-term health of men, but
Professor Ding said midlife was a period of transition that might affect women more adversely than men.
"In middle age, women are more likely to be the primary caregivers for both young children and elderly parents, as well as going through major physical, psychological and social changes in status such as menopause, retirement and children moving away from home," she said.
"All of which may affect how socially connected a woman feels."
Researchers are calling for loneliness to be a risk factor screened by clinicians, in the same way people are screened for high blood pressure and cholesterol.
"The research is clear that loneliness not only correlates with existing health problems but causes them," lead author Neta HaGani said.
Heightened risk of feral deer
WITH deer breeding season upon us, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.
Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, said feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.
“Feral deer activity will intensify in coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area,” she said.
“It’s important the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app.
“We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.
“Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds, all things that threaten the survival of native flora and fauna,” Dr Wiebkin said.
The Centre’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, warns that feral deer are becoming an increasing concern to communities across the country, with extreme weather events – such as droughts,
floods and fires – pushing them into new areas.
“It’s astonishing – deer have now spread to every state and territory in Australia.
"In fact, nearly a quarter of New South Wales and Tasmania, and almost half of Victoria are now home to established populations. Their numbers have increased tenfold in recent decades,” she said.
Ms Chadlowe said reporting feral deer sightings and signs is crucial.
“Every Australian can play a role by reporting feral deer sightings or signs, like tracks and damage.
“These reports… help drive coordinated efforts to control new deer populations before they spiral out of control. By acting now, we can stop their spread and save Australia millions of dollars each year,” she added.
Feral deer also hit the farming community hard, with Ted Rowley, Independent Chair of the National Feral Deer Action Plan Committee, underscoring the importance of control efforts.
“Farmers are fed up: deer cause $69 million in agricultural productivity losses and $4.5 million in vehicle and train collisions each year. The Plan is key to stopping these losses," he said.
q Research has found a causal link between loneliness and early death among middle-aged women. Photo: Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS.
"We also need to raise the public awareness of loneliness to demystify and destigmatise loneliness," Dr HaGani said.
q Reporting feral deer sightings and signs is crucial in control efforts. Photo: Francesca Bowman.
q Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds. Photo: Peter Bradford.
q Community members are being asked to keep an eye out for signs of feral deer. Photo: Darryn Mundt.
Coffs cricket’s award winners
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour District Cricket Association’s best players have been recognised, with the award winners announced for the 2024/25 Sixers Cricket League season.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels won the Arch and Isobel Kay Memorial Trophy for the Club Championship.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Tyh Murphy and Nana Glen Lizards player Daniel Craig won the Bill Rae Memorial
Medal, as the best first grade player.
Daniel Craig won the Ray Kratz Memorial Medal as the best Under 21 Colt cricketer.
Nana Glen Lizards player Zane Guthrie won the Ken Robinson Trophy as the best Under 16 senior cricketer.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels captain Taj Dosanjh won the first-grade captains award.
Daniel Craig had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 381 runs at
an average of 76.2.
Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club’s Taylor Gilbert had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 20 wickets at an average of 9.7.
Tony Slaviero of the Coffs Colts Cricket Club had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 14.
Tyh Murphy had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper, taking nine.
Taylor Gilbert was the best all-rounder.
Round 2 wins for Snappers and Marlins
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins have both been victorious during the second round of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.
The Snappers won their grand final rematch 29-17 against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Port Macquarie.
It was the Snappers second straight win to start the season as they sit on top of the first grade ladder as the only undefeated side.
The Marlins recorded their first win of the season accounting for the Grafton
Redmen 29-21 at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
Port Macquarie Pirates had a 59-7 win at home against the Kempsey Cannonballs, which was their first victory of the season.
Mid North Coast Rugby Union’s Northern Division season has a break this weekend, before resuming with Round 3 matches on Saturday, 26 April.
The Snappers are away to the Kempsey Cannonballs, while the Marlins travel to take on the Port Macquarie Pirates.
Round 2 results Coffs Harbour Snappers
vs Hastings Valley Vikings. Reserve grade: Snappers 29 def. Vikings 3. Under 18s: Snappers 10 def. Vikings 3.
Under 14s Boys: Marlins 53 def. Redmen 14. Coffs Harbour Snappers vs Kempsey Cannonballs. Under 16s Girls: Snappers 33 def. Cannonballs 25. Under 14s Girls: Snappers 36 def. Cannonballs 15. Under 14s Black: Cannonballs 105 def. Snappers 0.
Second grade
Diggers Cricket Club player Nick Bennie scored the most runs with 313.
Brendon Myers of Nana Glen Cricket Club had the highest batting average at 46.67.
Nana Glen’s Ben Watson had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 37 wickets at an average of 8.11.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels player Raphael Wirth and Diggers player Kieran Cunningham both had the most dismissals of any wicket keepers, with nine each.
Cody Britnell of the Coffs Colts had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper taking 10.
Ben Watson was the best all-rounder.
Third grade
Ben Oliver of Diggers Cricket Club scored the most runs with 294.
Coffs Colts player Paul Tomlinson had the highest batting average at 42.33.
Matthew Bryant of Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 21 wickets at an average of 6.33.
Diggers player Jacka Britton had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 12.
Michael Nealand and Ben Oliver of Diggers both had seven catches each as nonwicket keepers.
Roosters women impress in trial
By Mick BIRTLES
RUGBY league fans were treated to a preview of what to expect in this year’s Group 2 Women's Tackle competition when the Nambucca Roosters hosted the Woolgoolga Seahorses in a trial match under lights at Coronation Park, Nambucca Heads, on Friday night.
The game was played over three 20 minute sessions with the home side coming very close to getting the better of last year's premiers.
Solid defence and good completions from both sides were a feature of the first twothirds of the game with ball handling errors not creeping in until fatigue started to be apparent in the later stages.
The Roosters were able to find space in the Woopi defence close to the line 10 minutes into the game.
A delighted Wulaaren Walker scored a try during her first game with the
Roosters and a successful conversion from Xanthi Hand took them to a 6-0 lead.
The visitors retaliated with a series of tackle breaking runs and had the home side under pressure against their line.
But despite getting themselves into great field
position, they were unable to score before the first 20 minutes of play came to an end.
In the second term of the game, momentum shifted back to the Roosters as they held the Seahorses in their half for an extended period until a line break from Woopi
took them 75 metres and across the line.
Hannah McGraw scored the points, and converted, to even the score at 6-6.
Both teams slogged it out to break the tie until Woopi’s Kia Archibald produced a try eight minutes into the last stanza that was not
Nana Glen’s Matthew Benfield was the best allrounder.
Fourth grade Kamaljeet Singh of Diggers Cricket Club scored the most runs with 270.
Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels player Malcolm Bird had the highest batting average at 89.
Coffs Colts player RogerLouis Mourin had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 20 wickets at an average of 11.35.
Claye Cooper of Macksville Cricket Club had the most dismissals of any wicket keeper with 13.
Colts player Jeremy Griffith had the most catches of any non-wicket keeper, taking eight.
Macksville’s Quinn Ledger was the best allrounder.
Under 16s
Nana Glen Cricket Club’s Zane Guthrie had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 276 runs at an average of 69.
Zane Guthrie was also the champion player.
Prabhjot Virk of the Woolgoolga Cricket Club Rebels had the best bowling aggregate taking 12 wickets.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Oakley Baylis had the best bowling average at 6.27.
Macksville’s Aston Ramunno had the most catches with 10. Under 14s
Macksville’s Quinn Ledger had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 257 runs at an average of 64.25.
Sawtell Cricket Club’s Joshua de Groot had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 15 wickets at an average of 9.47.
Joshua De Groot was also the champion player.
Alby Butler of Diggers Cricket Club had the most catches with eight.
Under 12s
Sehaj singh Mahal of the Diggers Cricket Club had the highest batting aggregate and average, scoring 361 runs at an average of 72.2.
Sehaj singh Mahal was also the champion player.
Diggers player Zayden Parry had the best bowling aggregate and average, taking 12 wickets at an average of 2.75.
Zayden Parry also took the most catches with six.
Female cricket awards
Bianca Dyson of the Bellingen/Dorrigo Cricket Club was the best Under 19 female cricketer and highest achiever.
Zoe Tarlinton of the Nana Glen Cricket Club was the best Under 16 female cricketer and highest achiever.
Grace Chaseling of the Woolgoolga Cricket Club was awarded the Sean Kelleher Shield as the Junior Spirit Award recipient.
converted.
Despite both teams getting close to the line a number of times, they were not able to increase their points on the board and at full-time the visitors took the
win 10-6.
The standard of play from both teams was a telling indicator that the Group 2 Women’s Tackle Competition for 2025 is going to be a thriller.
q Nambucca Roosters’ Xanthi Hand was impressive in attack against Woolgoolga during their trial match at Coronation Park on Friday night.
q Nambucca Roosters’ Reanna Stacey threatens the line during their trial match at Coronation Park on Friday night.
Bonarrigo brings Euro pedigree to North Coast Football
By David WIGLEY
NORTH Coast Football has landed a major coup with the appointment of highly respected coach Nico Bonarrigo as the club’s new Technical Director.
Fresh from his role as Youth Development Head Coach at Manly United FC, Bonarrigo arrives armed with serious credentials and a footballing résumé shaped by years on the pitch and in the dugout - both at home and abroad.
The Italian-born tactician holds an Australian FA “A” Licence and UEFA “B” Licence and boasts a playing career that kicked off in style.
He made his senior debut against Serie A heavyweights Bologna at the age of just 15 in a mid-season friendly.
He went on to spend more than a decade playing semi-professionally in Italy, gaining unique insights from inside some of the country’s most storied clubs, including Bologna and Avellino, where his uncle also played in Serie A.
The man from Bologna now says he’s ready to help the next generation of footballers on the North Coast.
“The Technical Director role at NCF is an exciting challenge,” he said.
“It’s the perfect
opportunity to help grow the game and be a point of influence for coaches and players in the region.
“At Manly, the culture was all about preparing players to take the next step, whether that was an A-League academy or first-grade NPL.
“If they had the talent and the work ethic, we gave them the tools.”
A firm believer in intelligent football, Bonarrigo says his approach is about more than just developing technical ability.
“My philosophy is about building decision-makers; players who understand the game, who adapt, who thrive in systems that reward
Kicking goals off the field
By Mick BIRTLES
THE Nambucca Roosters Rugby League Football Club is proving that bringing a community together goes far beyond what happens on the football field.
In a bid to raise funds for their club and strengthen ties with local supporters, the club is embracing a range of fun and family-friendly
teamwork, creativity, and tactical awareness.”
NCF General Manager Duncan Marchant said Bonarrigo was the standout pick in a nationwide search.
“It’s been a lengthy process, but one we wanted to get absolutely right,” he said.
“Appointments like this aren’t just about coaching credentials, they’re about cultural fit and long-term vision.
“Nico brings not only experience from the competitive Sydney leagues but also a rare European edge that will benefit the next generation of footballers on the North Coast.”
events, with a strong focus on connection and community spirit.
Last Saturday, the Roosters hosted a wildly entertaining Crab Race event at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club, drawing a crowd of all ages.
The afternoon featured light-hearted games for kids between races, with the main event being the hotly contested crab races where some of the district’s finest mud crabs scuttled to
the finish line in pursuit of thoroughbred crustacean glory.
The event was a resounding success, combining laughter and friendly competition, all in the name of supporting the Nambucca Roosters RLFC and its future.
Building on that momentum, the Roosters are now inviting the community to test their brainpower at the upcoming Nambucca Roosters Trivia Night, also
to be held at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club on Saturday, 26 April, with a 7:00pm start. Tables are $100 each, seating up to 10 people, making it the perfect night out for families, friends, or local businesses.
The night will feature four rounds of trivia with fun activities between rounds, plus prizes for the winning team and lucky door giveaways. Call 6568 6288 for more information.
Fitzgerald’s flawless victory at Nambucca Heads
FROM Page 24
dominant.”
Lindsay, no slouch himself, admired Fitzgerald's aggressive style.
“Nathan plays attacking squash, no hesitation.
“He takes that ball early on the volley and forces his opponent into a corner.
“His crosscourt volley into the nick? It’s magic, every time it hits you hear the crowd clap in appreciation.
“This comp has been one of the strongest for some time, with six genuine line one players in the comp there’s been no easy matches.
“But in the end, Nathan ran away with it and won the
comp by 12 points.
“The comp was played in really good spirits, everyone knows each other and has a joke together and that’s what it’s all about, the social side is really important,” Lindsay said.
Division Two, on the other hand, was a battle of grit.
Andy Vassallo fought his way to victory through a series of brutal matches; a test of willpower and endurance.
In line three, 13-year-old Jaida Wigley won her first senior competition, by six points over her nearest rival.
She defeated Peter Budd, a club legend and
longest serving player in the competition, in her final match.
Line four was won by Jashan Veerpal who romped home by a ten point winning margin.
“The next competition kicks off after the Easter school holidays, and whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer looking to make your mark, there’s room for you.
“It’s all about the game, the camaraderie, and of course, the spirit of squash,” concluded Lindsay.
Nathan Fitzgerald
Nambucca
Club.
AFL North Coast season underway
By Aiden BURGESS
AUSSIE Rules returned to the Coffs Coast as the latest AFL North Coast season got underway last weekend.
Port Macquarie Magpies seniors began their premiership defence in dominant style, smashing the
Send
Grafton Tigers 27.12 (174) to 5.7 (37) in Grafton.
The scheduled opening round match between the Sawtell/Toormina Saints and Macleay Valley Eagles at Richardson Park was postponed due to the wet weather.
Sawtell/Toormina
Saints women started their premiership defence in dominant fashion with a 14.18 (102) to 0.0 (0) demolition of the Port Macquarie Magpies at Richardson Park.
Northern Beaches Blues women started their season with a 5.7 (37) to 5.0 (30) win against the Coffs Harbour
Breakers at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
Port Macquarie Magpies
Under 18s had a 14.10 (94) to 4.7 (31) win against reigning premiers Sawtell/Toormina Saints at Richardson Park.
Coffs Harbour Breakers
Under 18s began their season with a 7.9 (51) to 4.8 (32) win
against the Northern Beaches Blues at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
The AFL North Coast season takes a break this weekend, before resuming with Round 2 matches on Saturday, 26 April, as part of the Anzac Round.
Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/Toormina Saints meet in their first local derby
of the season at Richardson Park, and the Port Macquarie Magpies are at home against the Macleay Valley Eagles. Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/Toormina Saints women meet in their grand final rematch, and the Breakers reserves begin their premiership defence against the Saints.
q
volleying the ball into the crosscourt nick at
Heads Island Squash
q North Coast Football’s new Technical Director Nico Bonarrigo.
q The Nambucca Roosters RLFC presented an afternoon of mud crab races at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club last Saturday.
By Manny WOOD
Dispute regarding right to reside in home
FRANK and Betty have been in a de facto relationship for 20 years.
Frank has three children as a result of a previous relationship.
Frank seeks legal advice regarding his estate planning and in particular, how he can make a Will that “looks after” Betty, while preserving his estate for his three children.
The solicitor advises Frank that he can make a Will which grants Betty the right to reside in his home and the right to relocate to alternate accommodation, if appropriate, under the authority of his executor.
When Betty passes-away, Frank's estate can then be distributed to his children.
Frank decides that his solicitor’s advice should be followed, as it properly caters for Betty and his children.
He decides that the rest of his estate should go to his children and makes arrangements for his superannuation to be paid to Betty when he passes-away.
When Frank dies several years later, he owns two houses, a large investment portfolio and a substantial superannuation fund.
When Betty discovers the contents of Frank’s Will, she is disappointed, believing that she should receive the home in which they reside “outright”, to do with as she pleases.
She commences action against Frank’s estate.
During the course of a three-day hearing, Betty states that Frank had promised her that she would receive the home outright.
During a lengthy cross-examination, Betty is questioned about the “promise”.
The Court expresses some concerns regarding Betty’s credibility but does not consider her conduct to detract from her case.
The Court acknowledges that in the circumstances, Frank had a duty to Betty to provide her with the “security of a home” and a fund to live in a “style to which she was accustomed”.
However, the Court also acknowledges that Frank’s Will should not be disturbed unnecessarily and that Frank also had a moral obligation to his children.
In dismissing Betty’s claim, the Court ultimately decides to give weight to Frank’s “judgment as manifested in his Will”, stating that he was in a “better position” to determine his obligations to Betty and his children than the Court.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
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Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch
Why we march on Anzac Day
By David DOYLE OAM, C.ex Group President
ON this Anzac Day it will be 110 years since Colonel J. W. McCay led Australian troops on to those fatal shores of Turkey.
Those beaches and coastline on the Gallipoli peninsula would see 8,700 young Australians die in battle with a further 19,000 wounded.
Our New Zealand counterpart lost 2,431 (killed in action) and 5,140 wounded.
Allied forces which included English, French, Indian and Ghurkha troops suffered 44,000 killed and 97,000 wounded.
This was also the beginning of the War, and it was only eight months old.
How many troops would we lose in the years to follow (1914 to 1918).
Young Australian soldiers, some so young that they had not yet had their first shave.
It was later proven that some of these young men had not even reached the age of 18, yet they had accepted the challenge to go to battle for their country and if need be, to fight to the last and that they did.
They paid the supreme sacrifice so that you and I could live in a free society with freedom of speech, the freedom of religion and the
freedom of choice.
After leaving the shores of Gallipoli on 20 December 1915, they returned to Egypt to collect their horses.
The Light Horse brigade stayed on while the rest set sail for England and prepared for the Western Front.
Our Light Horse, which consisted of seven Light Horse Brigades, got back in the saddle (so to speak) as they had left the horses back in Egypt during the Gallipoli Campaign.
It was not long until they ran up battle honours for themselves as they forced the Turks and Arabs back into Syria and Turkey in what was the Charge of Beersheba.
It was in fact the last charge ever on horseback by an Imperial Army during any World War. Our 15th Light Horse from Grafton has been with us for almost 30 years.
After acclimatisation had been completed in England our troops ended up on the Somme near the village of Villers–Bretonneux, where still to this day the school that our troops adopted back in 1916 love to see Australians come there and help celebrate the signing of the peace treaty every year.
Australia along with our allies suffered horrific losses; 615,000 troops were killed in action, what a waste of young men.
Some of the battles that the ANZACs were involved in were Pozieres, Bapaume, La Boisselle, Becourt, Bullecourt, Bouzincourt,
DEAR Jasminda,
WHENEVER I go to the supermarket for a couple of items, I end up leaving with a trolley full. How can I avoid the temptation and stick to my budget?
Gloria V.
Dear Gloria,
It's easy to feel defeated when you go into the supermarket for eggs and milk and return with two punnets of strawberries, goats cheese, a leg of lamb, Weetbix, dishwasher tablets, antibacterial spray, turkey mince, salmon fillets, protein balls, and, if you are at ALDI, a mattress in a box, a home gym, a duck feather quilt, a snuggle hoodie and a dozen pale ales.
There are, however, a few ways you can stick to your budget.
The first is to have a list.
Taking a handwritten list, or typing one on your phone that you can cross off, will avoid impulse buys and keep you on track.
Only purchase the items on your list and don't be tempted by the confectionary aisle.
If you don't walk down it, you'll be less likely to throw
Albert and Menin Road, to name a few.
It is so good to see young Australians going back to Gallipoli and to the Western Front just to see where our early history lies and of the great deeds of bravery, mateship, comradery and loyalty that our troops had for one another and as a fighting force that was second to none.
a family-size chocolate bar in the trolley.
Another option is to bring a small recyclable bag with you or, if you are only grabbing milk and bread, take no bag at all.
The difficulty in juggling multiple items should dissuade you from adding extras to your trolley.
For the same reason, selecting a basket instead of a trolley will reduce the number of items you can carry to whatever weight you can manage with two arms.
Another option is to take advantage of supermarket click and collect services. If you pre-order, you will be less likely to purchase items you don't need, and you'll also be able to stick to your original budget as you'll be paying at the time of purchase instead of when you are surrounded by temptation, flashing lights, sales tickets and looping 80s music that can lull you into a purchasing frenzy.
I challenge anyone to not throw a pack of Lolly Gobble Bliss Bombs and some Kirk's Pasito into their trolley when Wham's Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go is playing in the background. I hope these suggestions help, Gloria. Marketing experts are pretty savvy, and it's easy to be swayed by their customer loyalty promos and two-for-one deals.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
This tradition was carried forward to all our conflicts that Australians have partaken in the last 110 years.
This ANZAC Day, on the anniversary of 110yrs of ANZAC, remember those brave Aussies because they may have been a relative of yours, a great great grandad, uncle, aunt, father or cousin.
It is a time to remember all those members of the Armed Services who have given their lives in any of the conflicts that Australians have engaged in during the last century, plus 10 years.
Letter to the Editor: A hung parliament is the ‘worst option’
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE international financial and security environment is the most dangerous it has been since World War II.
Among other challenges, the next Federal Government will have to deal with two major bullies – Donald Trump and the Chinese Communist Party.
For the first time since WWII, we are facing the threat of big power armed conflict in our part of the world, while at the same time, Australia is in danger of being crippled by a possible world- wide trade war.
The reality is that the next Australian
Government will have to make complex decisions quickly and speak with confidence and unity.
These challenges will be difficult enough for a united government with a parliamentary majority.
It will be impossible for the next government to act firmly and quickly if Australia has a hung parliament, where a group of minor parties and independents, many with no international experience or interest, have to quickly agree on a difficult course of action.
Unfortunately there is little serious discussion about improving both our national defence and our weak budget
position in the current election campaign. If either of these go badly for us, there’ll be no money for all the goodies that most of the candidates are talking about.
We can’t have Government paralysis over the next three years.
So for the long term security of our country in these volatile times, I suggest that you vote for either the Coalition or Labor.
The country simply can’t afford a hung parliament.
Regards, Paul MCKEON, Coffs Harbour.
NAMBUCCA Valley and District Tennis Association AGM to be held 12pm on 29/04/25 Past & present members welcome.
SOUTH ARM Rural Fire Brigade AGM 7pm 05/05/25 at the fire shed.
Due to Easter & ANZAC Day Public Holidays we will have early deadlines for the below editions:
& ANZAC DAY 2025
Due to Easter Public Holidays we will have early deadlines for the below editions: Friday 2nd April 2021 will be printed and distributed Thursday 1st April 2021
Friday 7th April 2023 will be printed and distributed Thursday 6th April 2023 (Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)
Due to the Easter & Anzac Day Public Holidays, we have early deadlines for the below editions: Friday 18th April 2025
(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)
Friday 14th April 2023
Friday 25th April 2025
Friday 9th April 2021
(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)
(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)
Nambucca Valley NOTA will hit the stands 24 hours early being delivered on Thursday 17th April & Thursday 24th April.
Friday 28th April 2023
(Booking/Copy/Final approvals will change)
For more information, please contact Gaye gaye@newsofthearea.com.au
We wish you all a Happy & Safe Easter from the team at Coffs Coast News Of The Area
The classifieds deadline has also been brought forward 24 hours, that means notices must be in by Tuesday at 12pm for the two above editions. SAT 19/4, 8:30am - 2pm 2/25 Orara St, Urunga Tools, kitchenware, boys toys and clothes, craft items, adult clothing plants & bric a brac e180425
For more information, please contact Gaye gaye@newsofthearea.com.au
MITSUBISHI Mirage white hatchback 2015 manual, 47,454 klms well serviced & garaged exc cond, one lady owner, $11,990 ono CD68GF. 6651 9790
MITSUBISHI Pajero GLS 4WD 3.2L diesel 2003. Mechanically sound, in great condition New tyres, well serviced & garaged 370,500km. Rego to 8 Jun ‘25 YZY538 $7,000 ono 0474 311 763 Boats
NISSAN Maxima TI MY 12/03 V6, 262km APK36X. $1,970. Ph 0427 709 798
NAMBUCCA VALLEY
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
ABC FAMILY, 7.30pm
When it comes to Bluey, one thing’s certain: kids and grown-ups alike cannot get enough. The adorable Brisbane-based blue heeler and her family’s adventures are always in high demand. While we have to wait for new animated escapades, this theatrical production brings the magic of Bluey to the stage –“for real life”, as Bingo would put it. Featuring brilliantly crafted, human-sized puppets and the voices we all know and love, Bluey’s Big Play sees dad Bandit (Dave McCormack) desperate for a bit of time out on his phone. However, Bluey and Bingo have other plans.
FRIDAY, April 18
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross makes a holiday herb basket.
8.30 Sherwood. (Malv) The Sparrows are forced to join the Bransons on their revenge mission, and must act quickly.
9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) A satirical news program.
10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. (Mlv, R)
10.30 Father Brown. (PGav, R)
11.20 Mayfair Witches. (MA15+a, R)
12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.35 Late Programs.
THURSDAY TASKMASTER
AUSTRALIA
TEN, 8.30pm
Fans of Taskmaster’s UK version will know that the comedic game show isn’t always a barrel of laughs for acclaimed actresses who step outside their comfort zone to compete: Charlotte Ritchie (Call the Midwife) and Katherine Parkinson (Doc Martin both regularly bewildered during their stints. However, we’re now halfway through this fourth Down Under edition, and four-time Gold Logie winner Lisa McCune (pictured) is flourishing. The sweet-natured Blue Heelers star is adept at bending – but not breaking – the rules, a core tenet of Taskmaster success. Tonight, find out how the golden girl of Australian TV elects to stress out Tom Cashman.
2.10 The Holy Grail Mystery. (Ma, R) 2.55 The Point. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Bitesize. (R) 3.40 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Mystery
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 William And Harry: The Unseen Photos. (Premiere, M)
9.15 Scotland’s Scenic Railways. (R)
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 A Body That Works. (Ml)
11.40 Romulus. (Masv, R)
1.40 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v, R)
3.20 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? (PGav, R)
4.15 Bamay. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WEDNESDAY BIG BOYS
ABC TV, 9.30pm
This UK comedy about two laddish university students stands out from the pack: a semiautobiographical tale from comedian Jack Rooke, it weaves together hilarious rites of passage and snippets of student life with more serious issues of grief and loss, examining toxic masculinity along the way. Rooke himself narrates, as Jack Dylan Llewellyn, pictured) and roommate Danny (Jon Pointing) navigate final-year dissertations, life decisions and dating disasters. There won’t be a dry eye by the end of this 2015-set third and final season, but in tonight’s premiere, it’s (almost) all smiles, with Danny, Jack, Corinne (Izuka Hoyle) and Yemi (Olisa Odele) living it up on “holi-bobs” in Greece.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Colin Fassnidge shares his baked pumpkin.
8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002, PGl, R) A New York socialite returns to Alabama to divorce the man she married and left behind, years earlier. Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Candice Bergen.
10.45 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma, R)
12.15 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)
1.15 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 7. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus Melbourne Storm match, with NRL news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014, MA15+lv, R) An ex-hit man comes out of retirement. Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG)
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)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Seinfeld. 11.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. Noon MOVIE: Oddball. (2015) 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.
7.30 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies: Love In The Air. (PGa) Takes a look at how rivals fight for love, from amorous acrobatics to seduction by scent.
8.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrity guests include Zoë Saldaña, Selena Gomez, Miranda Hart and Ncuti Gatwa. 11.00 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
SATURDAY, April 19
6.10
ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day. 7.30 MOVIE: Made In Dagenham. (2010, Ml, R) Female workers protest against discrimination. Sally Hawkins, Bob Hoskins. 9.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) The body of a wealthy landowner goes missing on the night of his death, exposing a web of secrets.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG)
9.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Bologna. (Maw, R) Stanley Tucci heads to Bologna. 10.20 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGaw, R)
11.20 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
9.05 Secret Lebanon: The Treasures Of Byblos. (PG)
10.10 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (Ma, R)
11.05 Rebel With A Cause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. (Ma, R)
12.05 48 Hours To Victory. (PG, R)
2.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (PG, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm Motorcycle Racing. 1.10 Figure Skating. ISU European C’ships. Replay. 2.45 Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 The Day The Rock Star Died. 6.15 Abandoned Engineering. 8.10 The UnXplained. 9.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Amstel Gold Women’s Race. 10.30 Late Programs.
6am Hum Do Hamare Do. Continued. (2021, PG, Hindi) 8.10 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 10.00 Thirteen Days. (2000, M) 12.40pm To Chiara. (2021, M, Italian) 2.55 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 4.45 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 6.30 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 8.30 Truth. (2015) 10.50 The Hummingbird. (2022, M, French) 1.15am 99 Moons. (2022, MA15+, Swiss German) 3.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The Americas: The Frozen North. (PG) In the frozen north, walrus sing on rocky shores.
8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996, PGalv, R) Two meteorologists on the brink of divorce are forced to work together after they are caught in a severe storm. Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes.
10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R)
A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren.
12.50 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PGln, R)
6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 9.30 Better Homes And Gardens.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance.
8.30 MOVIE: Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. (1971, G, R) A poor boy wins a guided tour of a sweets factory. Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum.
10.35 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008, Mls, R)
12.30 How We Celebrate. (PGa, R)
1.30 Explore TV. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple can’t decide whether to stay or leave. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) Paramedics are called to help a 92-year-old pinned under his mobility scooter. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Mad, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am
UK. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. (2013, M) 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PGa, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.00 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (Return, Ml) Cathy pulls the Finglas community together in support of a festive good cause.
9.30 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PGl, R)
A concert by Billy Joel.
11.30 MOVIE: Midnight Run. (1988, Mlv, 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 60 Minutes. 8.00 RBT. (Ml) 8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. (MA15+a) A continued look at the People versus Michael Jackson trial. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 See No Evil. (Mav)
The First 48. (Ma)
Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Drive TV: Drive
Morning Programs. 9.50 David Attenborough’s
6.00
9GO!
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Milan With Michael Portillo. (PGa)
8.25 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. (Mls)
10.05 Rock Legends. (PG, R) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Classified. (Premiere, MA15+v) 11.50 Infiniti. (MA15+av, R)
1.55 Son Of. (MA15+av, R)
3.35 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PGa, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Bluey’s Big Play. 8.50 Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 The Crystal Maze. 9.20 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.45 Merlin. 10.30 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Lara.
Continued. (2019, PG, German) 7.05 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 8.50 Funny Face. (1957) 10.45 Joyride. (2022, M) 12.35pm Larry Crowne. (2011, M) 2.25 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 4.05 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 5.40 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 8.30 Recon. (2019, MA15+) 10.20 Unknown Soldier. (2017, MA15+, Finnish) 12.50am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (Return, PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) TK gets a huge surprise on his 30th birthday. Tommy is determined to push through her latest crisis. 10.15 Suits L.A. (M)
11.15 The Agenda Setters.
12.15 Treadstone. (MA15+av)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Travel Guides. (Return, PGl) 9.00 100% Footy. (M)
9News Late.
The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. (MA15+av)
Police After Dark. (Mlv, R)
Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 8.40 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the
8.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (PGl) 9.00 Swingers: How To Win An Election. 9.30 The Assembly. (PG, R) 10.15 The ABC Of... (Ml, R) 10.45 News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Four Corners. (R) 12.00
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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SBS MOVIES (32)
6am All Quiet On The Western Front. Continued. (1979, PG) 8.00 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 10.00 The Hummingbird. (2022, M, French) 12.25pm Truth. (2015) 2.45 Tourism. (2017) 4.10 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 5.50 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 8.30 Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 11.00 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 2am Recon. (2019, MA15+) 3.45 Joyride. (2022, M) 5.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.05 Doc. (Premiere, Ma) When Chief of Internal Medicine Dr Amy Larsen suffers a catastrophic brain injury, her life is turned upside down.
10.05 The Irrational. (Mav) 11.05 The Agenda Setters. 12.05 The Act. (MA15+ans, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO
7MATE (64)
WEDNESDAY, April 23
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (Mal)
8.40 Weight Of The World. (MA15+a) Examines the drugs Ozempic and Mounjaro.
9.45 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+) June and Moira go undercover.
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Return, Malnv)
12.25 Lost Luggage. (MA15+a, R)
3.20 Invisible. (PGa, R)
4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Band’s
Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 7.05 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 9.40 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 11.20 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 2.10pm The Movie Show. 2.45 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 4.50 Dafne. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.35 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 8.30 Flags Of Our Fathers. (2006, MA15+) 10.55 Donnie Brasco. (1997, MA15+) 1.20am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, April 24
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Akmal: Open For Renovations. (MA15+l, R)
11.15 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.15 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency.
(64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (Ms)
8.30 The Grand Tour. (MA15+l) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 The Equalizer. (Mv, R) 12.10 Next Stop. 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
(PG, R)
10.45 ABC News.
11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Darby And Joan. (Final, PGad, R) 12.00 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 12.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.20 The Many Days Of Anzac. (PG, R) 4.20 Anzac Dawn Service From Sydney. 5.30 Anzac Dawn Service From Canberra.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us. (PGa)
8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel.
9.40 Virdee. (MA15+v)
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 Breaking Point. (MA15+av)
12.15 The Hollow. (Premiere, Malv)
1.15 Departure. (Ma, R)
2.50 Hitler’s Teen Killers. (Mav, R)
3.50 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Leah issues a stern warning.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Graeme Hall meets a singing Staffy.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec.
10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) The teams travel to Bulgaria.
11.30 Born To Kill? Trevor Hardy. (Mav, R) A look at serial killer Trevor Hardy.
12.30 Spitfire Guardians. (PG, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 4.50 Anzac Day Dawn Service.
7TWO
With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.45am Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.40 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 8.35 Tourism. (2017) 10.00 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 12.50pm The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 3.25 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 5.30 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 8.30 The Flowers Of War. (2011, MA15+) 11.05 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 1.15am Flags Of Our Fathers. (2006, MA15+) 3.40 Late Programs.
(64)
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Squash King
By David WIGLEY
NATHAN Fitzgerald capped off the Men’s Division One Squash competition last week at Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club with a performance that left little to the imagination; undefeated and unstoppable.
The 24-year-old hotshot from Bowraville wrapped up the competition with a series of forehand crosscourt nicks which have become his signature shot at the club.
Jackson Lindsay, the 2023 club champion and Fitzgerald’s closest rival, couldn’t help but tip his hat to the young gun.
“Nathan’s rise has been fantastic,” Lindsay said.
“I held onto the 2023 Club Championship, but since then it’s been all Nathan.
“He won the 2024 Club Champs, and this comp… he was untouchable… barely dropped a set. Straight up
CONTINUED Page 15
q Line one winner Nathan Fitzgerald with runner up Jackson Lindsay.
