A NEW chapter in the Nambucca Valley’s agricultural story began last Friday, with more than 30 local growers, producers and supporters gathering at the Macksville RSL to launch the Nambucca Valley Growers and Producers Association (NVGPA).
The initiative is being driven by two local producers, flower farmer Ainslee Ashton and bushfood and cattle farmer Ljubov Simson.
Ashton is also the Nambucca Valley Landcare coordinator and Simson is a Nambucca Valley councillor.
The NVGPA aims to address the gap and opportunity identified in supporting and advocating for local growers and producers.
This includes small-scale and hobby farmers who have the potential to contribute to local food systems, biodiversity and sustainability.
“The new association aims to give a voice to the region’s growers and producers while also building resilience, networks, and sustainability across the Valley,” said Cr Simson.
Macksville preschool saved from the brink of closure
FROM Page 1
centre earlier this year.
With the challenge of fixing a severely damaged roof, removal of asbestos and long overdue maintenance, the community preschool found itself in financial and governance trouble.
Seeking assistance, the centre’s two remaining board members reached out to Nambucca Valley councillor Tamara McWilliam, a former attendee of the preschool.
“I was deeply saddened to hear the news that the preschool was facing imminent closure,” councillor McWilliam told News Of The Area.
“I went to this preschool as did both of my children.
“This beautiful community preschool holds memories over generations for me.”
Cr McWilliam then approached the General Manager (GM) and Mayor of Nambucca Valley Council, seeking support to help the preschool keep the doors open.
Council resolved to appoint GM Bede Spannagle to the preschool’s board to assist with financial and governance guidance.
“This longstanding community preschool is essential to our community and offers a unique nurturing and inclusive environment for the youngest members of our community to thrive in,” Mr Spannagle said.
“I am excited to be helping, along with Bree Castle as our treasurer and Stacey Munro as our secretary, and an enthusiastic group of parents.
“We will be positioning the preschool to ensure a sustainable financial and governance future.”
The Council GM said childcare is an “essential service”, noting an insufficient number of
providers to meet demand in the Nambucca Valley.
“We want families within our community and those looking to move to our Valley to have adequate access to childcare,” Mr Spannagle stated.
Council has now become the Crown land manager of the land the preschool resides upon.
“This will ensure the preschool and daycare centre has a home for the long term,” Mr Spannagle said.
Following the retirement of long-term centre director Kylie Hall, the executive committee has appointed Amanda Cowan as temporary director during this transitional phase.
“Amanda has extensive knowledge and experience in the childcare sector, and is a valuable addition to the team of incredible staff here at the centre,” Mr Spannagle commented. Ms Cowan said she is excited to get started in the director role.
“I'm honoured to join a preschool community that recognises children as unique and precious individuals deserving of care, respect, and opportunities to explore the world around them through play, imagination, and meaningful relationships.
“With the support of our passionate team of educators and an inspiring new management committee, we are entering an exciting new phase.”
q Councillor Tamara McWilliam and Nambucca Valley Council GM Bede Spannagle, the new president of the Macksville Pre-School Childcare Centre.
Nambucca Valley’s new Growers and Producers Association takes root
FROM Page 1
backbone of our community.
“We have an opportunity to be part of Australia’s buy-local revolution while supporting our local food security through stewardship.
“The NVGPA is about creating the network and the support structure to make that happen,” she said.
Ms Ashton explained that Nambucca Valley Landcare has a long history of supporting local farmers.
“The NVGPA is vital to further building the connections across the farming community,” she said.
“This will help to increase community resilience during hard times and have a more secure local
food network.” Feedback and ideas from the room highlighted both enthusiasm and urgency amongst attendees.
For many, an holistic approach was key with strong support for encouraging stewardship practices that protect land, water resources and environmental safety while also promoting universal wellbeing across the Valley’s farming communities.
Proposals for a coordinated marketing strategy to promote the Nambucca Valley's natural assets and produce as an agritourism destination received strong support as did the suggestion for a ‘Nambucca, Naturally’ brand.
Cr Simson said that members can expect opportunities to collaborate with likeminded growers, access local hubs, and work collectively toward creating such a vision.
“Most importantly, membership fees are designed to be low-cost and inclusive and all members will have voting rights.”
Local grower Lawrence Proctor, whose family has farmed bananas for four generations, also produces beef and cattle, but said he still works in
q The attendees were enthusiastic about opportunities such an association could provide.
retail to ensure income stability.
“You need to have livestock or the land just goes back to bush,” he said, citing a common practice among small producers to capture viability.
“This association is about representation. A local government decision impacting us was recently overturned at the state level – our voices weren’t heard.
“If we’re unified, we can set up local hubs, market our produce together, and work toward building the Valley as a recognised food and agritourism region.”
Also among the attendees was well-known actor Rachel Ward, who with husband Bryan Brown has long operated a cattle farm near Macksville, lending star power to the grassroots effort.
Do you need help after the recent severe weather?
The NSW Reconstruction Authority is here to support your recovery.
Recovery Centres are now open across the Hunter and East Coast, offering face-to-face support, including:
• Financial assistance and grants
• Insurance and legal advice
• Housing and accommodation support
• Mental health and wellbeing services
To find your nearest Recovery Centre, visit nsw.gov.au/floodrecoveryupdates or call 13 77 88
Interested growers, producers and supporters are encouraged to contact Cr Simson to get involved and help shape its future.
Email nvgrowersproducersassociation@ gmail.com or phone 0410 620 093.
The next workshop is scheduled for 5pm to 7pm on Friday 11 July at Macksville Ex-Services Club.
NSW Reconstruction Authority
q Local grower Lawrence Proctor was supportive of the unified voice that an association could deliver.
Pool flood repairs continue
ASSESSMENTS and repairs
continued this week to restore the Macksville Memorial Aquatic & Fitness Centre for community use as soon as possible.
The pool facility experienced significant damage from the flooding in late May, resulting in its closure.
In the third week of recovery, electrical safe work has been completed and electricity has now been restored at 80 percent capacity.
Further work is required to replace damaged components to fully restore electricity to the facility and is expected to
commence soon.
“A pool consultant is attending this week to provide advice on the recovery works required for the pools,” Council said in a statement.
“Flood waters contain debris and contamination and the pools will need thorough cleaning.
“Council continues to be thankful to the community for their patience and understanding in the recovery of the Macksville Memorial Aquatic and Fitness Centre.”
Council’s website has a page dedicated to updates on the recovery and frequently asked questions you may have.
Mary’s remarkable recovery - part two
By Jen HETHERINGTON
THIS is part two of a series about the remarkable Mary Gibson from Talarm, who was trapped under a tractor wheel in an accident on her property in December 2022. To read part one, pick up a copy of last week’s paper or visit nambuccavalley. newsofthearea.com.au.
THE serious dilemma Mary had found herself in continued as she was pinned under the tractor for a second night.
q Mary shows off her amputated leg.
CWA experience ShoreTrack impact
By Mick BIRTLES
FOUR members of the Nambucca Valley Evening Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) paid a special visit to ShoreTrack to experience firsthand the inspiring work being done with local youth.
CWA members Jenny Boys, June Rossington, Julia Sweeney and Marg Duffus were warmly welcomed at the ShoreTrack facility, where they took part in a guided tour and observed the daily operations of the organisation, which is known for its impactful programs aimed at empowering young people through hands-on
learning, mentoring and support.
The morning began with a group “Circle” session, a key part of ShoreTrack’s routine.
Participants, both youth and staff, gathered together to check in and rate how they were feeling out of 10, creating a supportive and open environment to start the day.
Following the Circle, the young participants each conducted a safety briefing for their respective work teams before heading off to begin their tasks for the day.
The CWA visitors then enjoyed a delicious morning tea featuring fresh muffins, fruit, and a well-earned cuppa, while having the opportunity to chat with ShoreTrack staff and learn more about the program’s goals and achievements.
All four members expressed their admiration for the warm, respectful atmosphere and the confidence and capability being fostered in the young people attending ShoreTrack.
ShoreTrack continues to be an inspiring example of grassroots commitment to youth development, and the CWA’s visit was a reminder of the importance of celebrating and supporting such efforts in our region.
“I have never been one to panic, it must be in my genes, coming from a family who had lived through the depression, but I knew my sister would be concerned,” Mary said of her situation.
By the second morning Mary’s sister Penny had indeed raised the alarm via Macksville police.
A search was initiated and Mary was eventually located, with emergency services springing into action to recover her.
“The first thing I heard - I must have been unconscious before that - was my neighbour being asked to move the horses so the helicopter could land,” Mary told NOTA.
“Then I remember apologising for the fuss and interrupting their lunch.
“There were people standing over me in white coats, I thought I
was in a movie!”
The emergency services, including the Talarm Rural Fire Service and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service paramedics, were quick to act in both stabilising Mary’s medical condition and her extraction from under the tractor with the use of airbags and lifting equipment.
q Jenny Boys, June Rossington, Julia Sweeney and Marg Duffus of the CWA Nambucca Valley Evening Branch, during their visit to ShoreTrack. Photo: supplied.
With all this swiftly happening around her, Mary recalls the confusion of the moment.
“I was thinking all these people were there for a party in my ‘folly’ down the hill, but I’d not been invited. I do like a party,” she said. Mary was airlifted to Newcastle Hospital, eventually requiring a leg amputation and months of rehabilitation.
Another crash despite speed limit change
A CAR and motorcycle crash at the notorious Giinagay Way/Valla Beach Road intersection closed the former in both directions on Tuesday afternoon, mere hours after Transport for NSW issued a call for the community to “get on board” with road safety changes at the site.
In a media statement released Tuesday morning, motorists were urged to drive with extra care after speed reductions were implemented on Giinagay Way.
A permanent 60 km/h speed limit is now in place from 500 metres north of Valla Beach Road to the existing 100km/h change point south of Valla Beach Road.
Transport for NSW says this change to this one-kilometre section of road adds about 20 seconds to travel times.
It carried out the speed zone review after an increase in the number of recorded crashes and near misses at the site.
“This reduction will help reduce the recent increase in crashes
occurring at this location, improve safety for vehicles turning into and out of Valla Beach Road and East West Link Road and reduce the severity of any future crashes that do occur,” Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said.
“These changes have been implemented in response to community concerns – now the community must play its part in helping make this intersection safer.”
New signage, traffic separators and line marking have also been implemented.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp is calling on the Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison to “immediately address the dangerous conditions” at the intersection.
Mr Kemp said concerns over the site have not been taken seriously by Transport for NSW or the Minister, despite repeated representations from the community, police and emergency services.
Have Your Say
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION & VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the
“We’ve had crash after crash, and it feels like they aren’t taking it seriously enough,” Mr Kemp said.
“The community is fed up and they want action now before another potentially fatal incident,” Mr Kemp said.
“The upgrades to the intersection have already cost taxpayers a considerable sum, yet the outcomes have failed to address the core problem of driver confusion.
“Community safety must come before theoretical road rules. What
the recent crash history at the intersection is “unacceptable”.
“I have made it clear to Transport for NSW that I am not satisfied with the current state of safety measures at the Valla Beach Road intersection and that more must be done, and it must be done quickly.
"While previous improvements such as speed limit reductions to 60km/h, enhanced signage, line markings, and traffic separators have been introduced, the frequency of incidents clearly show that the
thorough inspections and identify stronger, more permanent safety solutions.”
Meanwhile police are also urging the community to take extra caution.
“Our priority is to protect the lives of everyone on the road, and we need the cooperation of road users to help us do that,” said Coffs Mid Coast Sector Highway Patrol Inspector Anthony Smith.
“We urge drivers to slow down, drive safely, and pay attention to any
q A permanent 60 km/h speed limit is now in place from 500 metres north of Valla Beach Road to the existing 100km/h change point south of Valla Beach Road.
CLASSIFIEDS
More support sought for floodaffected farmers
THE Liberal and National parties are continuing calls for Federal and State governments to urgently amend Category C and D disaster recovery funding to the maximum thresholds of $50,000 for small businesses and $75,000 for primary producers.
OUTLETS
in newsstands & counters of over 70 businesses & locations throughout the Nambucca Valley.
Some include, supermarkets, newsagents, convenience stores, shopping centres, chemists, service stations, real estate agents, many general businesses throughout the area.
A list is published towards the back of this newspaper. You can also find the outlets by going to www.newsofthearea.com.au
Local MPs say the current $25,000 threshold is simply not enough, however Labor Ministers have urged primary producers to submit impact assessments so the government can consider further support.
“The primary industries natural disaster damage assessment survey, which is on my department's website, is available now for farmers and other primary producers to report damage,” Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said in parliament.
“As they work to get through this period, that system is set up for people to report specific damage that they see.
“That gets fed through the Government's processes to determine what support, if any, is needed going forward.
“But up to $25,000 in grants are available now, and I encourage people who need that support to apply.”
NSW Nationals leader
Dugald Saunders, meeting flood-affected farmers on the Mid North Coast last week, said the onus was being put on farmers to “try and prove how severe this event was”.
“Both the Prime Minister and the Premier have visited properties where people have lost absolutely everything,” he said.
“They have heard similar stories to what we’ve heard today, so it’s disgraceful to think they still don’t understand the reality of this when they have literally seen it with their own eyes.
“Businesses and producers of all kinds are feeling majorly let down right now and they need a much higher level of support so they have a pathway forward or they won’t be able to survive.”
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the $25,000 threshold “flies in the face of the devastation”.
“We are looking at generational farmers and businesses who simply
will not survive without this assistance, and who have been meaningfully contributing to our local economies for decades,” he said.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer noted that all levels of government had represented the needs of their communities yet calls remained unanswered.
“We have all met with individuals, businesses, farmers and local council representatives alongside the Recovery and Disaster Management Ministerial teams in the past few
weeks,” he said.
“Every local representative has advocated to the Ministers on behalf of their communities and as State Members we have been knocking on the doors in Parliament to see this achieved.
“But we still have not had the assurances we so desperately need, despite the platitudes.”
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said the NSW Government is working with the Commonwealth to provide a wide range of
support for communities impacted by the recent severe weather.
“Some of these regions have been hit with two natural disasters in recent months, so we are providing assistance for small businesses and non-profit organisations to help them bounce back,” Mr Dib said.
“The grants of up to $25,000 will help with the clean-up efforts and are part of a raft of disaster recovery support payments to assist affected communities.”
4WD DIESEL TRACTOR, JOHN DEERE D140 RIDE ON MOWER, DUAL AXLE FARM TRAILER NOT REGISTERED, ENCLOSED STORAGE TRAILER NOT REGISTERED, MOBILITY SCOOTER, STIHL MS180 CHAINSAW, MCCULLOCH PRO-MAC 5700-20 CHAINSAW, WHIPPER SNIPPERS, BATTERY CHARGERS, 150L AIR COMPRESSOR, MIG WELDER, GENERATOR, BENCH GRINDER, TABLE SAW, PRESSURE CLEANER, CAST IRON BORE 11HP, JUMPER LEADS, ELECTRICAL LEADS, CHAINS, CABLES, ROPES, LADDERS, SHOVELS, WELDING MASKS, ROLL OXY WIRE, TROLLEY JACKS, HOSES & REELS, CARAVAN AXLES & ELECTRIC BRAKE UNITS, ALUMINIUM CARAVAN WINDOWS, RATTLE GUNS, ANTIQUE TOOLS, HAMMERS, SAWS, BOLT CUTTERS, WRENCHES, BOXES OF MECHANICAL ITEMS, NUTS & BOLTS, TOOL BOXES, SOCKET SETS, ASSORTMENT OF MULTIPLE DRILLS, DRILL PIECES, PLANERS, GRINDERS, 3-WAY CAMPING FRIDGE, ANTIQUE ENGINE STAMPS, TAP & DYE SETS, BOXES OF TIE DOWNS, FENCE STRAINERS, JACKS, ANTIQUE TRAIN AND MECCANO SET, VERNIER GAUGE, ANTIQUE CAMERAS, DYSON VACUUMS, CARPET CLEANER, LG 7.5 TOP LOADER WASHING MACHINE, TREADMILL, TIMBER DINING TABLE, ELECTRIC RECLINER LEATHER LOUNGES,
Steel Work Bench with Vice, 10ft Aluminum Boat, 2-volt Electric Outboard Motor, 200L 12-volt Spray unit, PTO Cement Mixer, Ingersoll Rand SCD Air-Compressor, Diesel Stationary Motor, Berends Forks for Kubota Tractor, 3-pt Linkage Scoop, Carry-All, Boom Spray Linkage, Diamond Harrows x 3, Large Esky, 200L Drums, Back Blade, 2 x Steel Toolboxes, 2 x Furrow Disk Ploughs, 2 x Furrow Mouldboard Ploughs, Aluminum Fuel Tank , Floor Jack, Wallaby Jack, Fertiliser Spreader, Retractable Air Hose, 5 x Part Coils Barbed Wire & Plain, Meat Band Saw, Circular Saws, Old Cream Cans, Harwood Timber, Steel Gates, Pipe Bender, Approx. 100 Lengths Corrugated Iron (various lengths), Steel Cabinet, Wheelbarrow, 2 x Hydraulic Rams, Drill Press, Electric Planer, 2 x Solar Electric Fence Units, Electric Fence Tape & Posts, FireFighter Knapsacks, Davey FireFighter Pump, Extension Ladder, Stick Welder Single Phase, Oxy Acetylene Gauges & Hoses, Petrol 5.5HP Generator, Davey FireFighter Pump, Electric Welder 15amp, Calf Puller, Gate Chains, Bench Grinder, Metal Cut-off Saw, 4-Burner BBQ, Gurney, Drench, Makita Circular Saw, Brine Pump, Meat Hooks & Scales, Battery Charger, Front Weight off Kubota Tractor, 2 x Banana Ladders, Post Hole Boorer, Tap & Dye Set, 3 x Socket Sets 3 x Hydraulic Jacks, 3 x Stiltson 200L Steel Drums, Firewood, Variety Electric Tools, Water Filter, Fridge Freezer, Microwave, 2 x Chest Freezers (400L & 300L), Timber Dining Set, Electric Organ, Cedar Chest Drawers, Coffee Table, Electric Heater, 4 x Wardrobe Sets, Dyson Vacuum Cleaner, Fisher & Paykel Washing Machine, Cane Chairs, Bedroom Suite, Variety Household goods, Variety Nuts & Bolts and more 6568 1666 admin@gjkennedy.com.au gjkennedy.com.au
Cowper MP Pat Conaghan and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley.
Flood recovery event raises over $2k
By Jen HETHERINGTON
MORE than $2000 was raised for flood recovery efforts at a charity
concert at the Stuarts Point Tavern on Sunday, 15
Organised by the Stuarts Point and District Community Organisation (SPaDCO) and other local organisations, the event was blessed with an afternoon bathed in sunshine, as the community came together to provide support for flood victims and witness the quality entertainment on offer.
A generous amount of goods and vouchers adorned the raffle table, and the auction table
held a plentiful display of booty, varying from guitars, potted plants, books and wine, mystery vouchers, to a voucher for hay bales.
Having tallied the takings late on Sunday evening, a spokesperson for the SPaDCO executive committee stated, “We had a fantastic total of just over $2000 raised from the cake stall, raffle and auction.
“A huge thank you to everyone who donated items and volunteered their time.
“Special thanks to our local businessesthe Tavern, Ocean Blend, Franks Cafe, our Friendly Grocers and NORCO for their contributions to the raffle prizes.
“Thanks are also expressed for floral contributions and help from the Stuarts Point and District Garden Club, Mark Merritt and all the musos who gave their time for free, to Matt for
being such an excellent MC, to Belinda for brilliantly announcing all the raffle prizes and to Wayne for being such an excellent auctioneer.
“And finally, to Maison Flockton and
all the Tavern staff for all their hard work in helping make the event a success.
“What a collaborative community we are!” Members from the
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUSIONS
Kempsey Rotary Club Bookstore also attended with a vast array of well curated books and jigsaw puzzles, with all proceeds supporting flood recovery efforts.
a number of exciting events and activities on the calendar, including the annual Funday, Writing Competition and Art Exhibition.
• Lunch will be at the Sunnyside Tavern, Broadmeadow.
• Our approximate arrival at the Entertainment Centre will be 13:00 for a show time of 14:00.
• Upon completion of the show please make your way to the bus and we will load & GO! Bring your pillow and blanket along for a snooze on your way home. Discover the hero inside us all when Disney On Ice returns with the magical adventures of favourite Disney stars brought to life like never before.
• Departing Port Bus by 08:15, Port Coach Terminal @ 08:30 and Ikew Information Centre @ 09:00.
SPaDCO has
q The Oxy-Morons entertained the crowd.
q SPaDCO Secretary Jane Ford shows off the raffle prizes on offer. q Volunteers Janice Walters and Yvonne Chegwidden.
q Kempsey Rotary Club members Jenny Lee and Geoff Bannerman.
q Auctioneer Wayne Mason, SPaDCO Chairperson Mary-lou Lewis and Chris Parke.
Backlash over ‘quiet cut’ to train passes
LIBERAL MLC Aileen MacDonald has called for the NSW Government to immediately reinstate three-month and six-month NSW TrainLink Discovery Passes, describing the removal as a “quiet cut” that disproportionately hurts regional communities.
Speaking in the Legislative Council last week, Ms MacDonald moved a motion highlighting the significant impact of the removal of the passes on regional students, seniors, and families, and condemned a lack of public consultation or explanation.
“These passes weren’t a luxury,” Ms MacDonald said.
“They were essential, used by students to get home from university, by older residents staying socially connected, and by working people accessing health care and services in regional hubs.
“To remove them without warning and call it a ‘pause’ is a cost-of-living hike by stealth.”
The six-month Discovery Pass, previously available for $420, offered unlimited travel across NSW TrainLink’s regional train and coach network.
It has now been paused, leaving only more expensive 14-day and 30-day options.
Ms MacDonald said the change has effectively doubled the monthly cost for many users.
Labor MLC Emily Suvaal, responding to Ms MacDonald in parliament, said the Discovery Passes were solely designed for tourism use.
“The Discovery Pass is a discount product promoted for tourism travellers and intended for their use only,” Ms Suvaal said.
“It was never intended as a discounted product for commuters or as a concessional entitlement.
“As they are, the terms of the Discovery Pass are not considered fit for purpose by
Transport for NSW.
“Transport for NSW has put a hold on some of the pass options while the current terms are assessed and amendments are considered.
“A decision on the longerterm Discovery passes will be made following this review.”
Ms Suvaal notes that Discovery Passes make up “just four percent of total annual patronage”.
Ms MacDonald challenged the characterisation of the passes as tourist products.
“Real people, regional people used this pass to live their lives affordably and now they’re left without answers,” she said.
“Meanwhile, metro passengers can tap on and off with regular options, while regional travellers are told to ‘just buy six 30-day passes in a row’.
“Regional people shouldn’t have to beg for services that are taken for granted in the city.”
Cottage industry creatives flourish
By Kim SATCHELL
THE funky trend of café and artisan collaborations is providing opportunities for Mid North Coast creatives.
q The six-month Discovery Pass, previously available for $420, offered unlimited travel across NSW TrainLink’s regional train and coach network.
ceramic coffee cups and received such rave reviews they decided to expand into a complete set of tableware from locally-sourced clay that is slip-proof and imprinted with their logo.
Surge in flood victims seeking legal help
The distinction between fine dining and café culture has been somewhat erased in regional markets, given the appeal of fresh and earthy food in laidback coastal locales.
handmade tableware to a number of local eateries.
Michaela Kloeckner, the ‘mud mad’ ceramicist with a Nambucca studio, provides
“People often make a point of saying how much they enjoyed their dining experience eating from my plates, bowls and cups,” she said.
“I am chuffed how special these crafted objects appeal to valued customers.”
Ember & Time at Galleria
CC, Macksville is one of Michaela’s customers, with owner Aaron replacing all his commercial coffee mugs with handmade and elegantly glazed versions.
The designs are purposebuilt to sit comfortably in the hand and retain heat.
Driftwood Café at Scotts Head also chose to try the
This suits the ethos of owners Woody and Alexandra, who keenly support small-scale growers and farmers markets on their journey towards sustainable gastronomy.
Every fourth Sunday on the village green opposite the café they hold the Scotts Head Farmers Market (the brainchild of Alexandra), with stalls of local handmade goods and small batch lines, with fresh, seasonal produce.
The market runs from 8am to 11am with live music and a laidback ambience the whole family, adults and children can enjoy.
“We are incredibly proud of the community that is growing around this project, and so grateful to all stallholders and supporters who bring it to life every fortnight,” Alexandra said.
HUNDREDS of people are seeking legal advice following widespread flooding on the Mid North Coast.
Lawyers from the Legal Aid NSW Disaster Response Legal Service (DRLS), together with lawyers from Community Legal Centres, have been attending Recovery Centres established by the NSW Reconstruction Authority in flood-hit regions to help people deal with multiple issues.
The DRLS has seen over 500 clients and delivered 800 legal services since the floods began on 19 May, 2025.
There has also been a 68 percent increase in calls to the DRLS helpline 1800 801 528 since the start of the year.
“Many people have questions about what their insurance covers and those that don’t have flood cover are asking about their options,” said Senior Solicitor Ma’ata Solofoni.
“Our uninsured clients are checking their eligibility for government grants.
“We are also seeing many people in financial hardship who need our support in dealing with credit providers.
"Tenants are also reaching out for help with urgent repairs and rent reductions.”
DRLS and community legal centre lawyers have been available at Taree, Kempsey, Wauchope, Macksville, Wingham and Manning Point recovery centres.
q Aaron of the Ember & Time cafe in Macksville.
q Coffee mugs with earthy appeal.
q Senior Solicitor Maa'ta Solofoni.
Ground-breaking study of local estuaries
By Andrea FERRARI
A MAJOR study of NSW estuaries using a novel technique called eDNA, has created the first biodiversity map of river mouths and coastal tributaries along a 1000 kilometre stretch of coastline.
The study, led by Southern Cross University (SCU), was funded through the Riparian Stabilisation Package of the NSW Estuary Asset Protection Program
(NEAP).
Lead investigator Dr Maarten De Brauwer, who is based at SCU’s National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour, said the data paints a fascinating picture of the species living in and around NSW coastal tributaries, including birds, worms, plants, fish, sharks and invasive pests.
“The data revealed the location of 68 invasive pest species in various rivers, including aquatic weeds, algae and even cane toads further south than previously thought.”
Dr De Brauwer said
the project provided much-needed baseline data for managing critical ecosystems.
“This data can show what is actually happening to our biodiversity in estuaries following disasters like floods and bushfires.
“It can inform management agencies, biosecurity responses and help the ranger network manage these complex and dynamic systems after major disasters to support species recovery.”
This baseline is already being put to the test.
q Dr Maarten De Brauwer and Kait Harris collect samples to send to Wilderlab for processing.
Dr De Brauwer’s team recently returned to sample sites following Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the extreme rain events of March.
This will be a valuable addition to the current mapping, which includes more than 7000 species.
The data is represented in an interactive map on the website of the lab that completed the DNA analysis, Wilderlab.
Some of the sample sites produced surprising results.
“We found water buffalo DNA in the Richmond River, very far from where you
would expect to find it.
“When we went to look for the source, we found a horse trainer along the river was using four water buffaloes named Bob, Ben, Bill and Bruce to train horses, which explained it.”
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Fisheries Technician Kait Harris, said estuaries - the middle ground between the ocean and rivers - do not have recent statewide biodiversity baselines.
“This data is very valuable to understand how we manage them, particularly in challenging
circumstances like natural disasters.
“When we are sampling, people are really interested in what we are doing.
“Everyone in the community uses estuaries for recreational fishing, swimming, or even work.
“It’s a very visible ecosystem that can be heavily impacted by natural disasters.”
Indigenous ranger groups have been important partners in the project, helping to collect samples and contributing local knowledge about sample sites.
q Dr Maarten De Brauwer of SCU and Fisheries Technician Kait Harris conduct estuarine monitoring in Yamba.
Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club
By Chris KNIGHT
WHEN you're accustomed to playing golf in paradise, it's easy to miss the hues and waft of roses, even the tug of the beauty and beast that is the Nambucca River.
Yet 25 players must surely have soaked in the surrounds which visitors rave about as they formed the first competitive field at the Nambucca Heads Island Golf Course post-flood.
The front nine re-opened to competitive play on Saturday, 14 June, and the mood was one of opportunity rather than a chase for prizes.
It was a chance to stroll the couch fairways, stalk the bent greens which are the envy of many - and take a sneaky peak at the back nine as it emerges from the cloaking silt.
For the record, Dennis Ashton had the best score of the day with 41 points to win Div 2 of the medley stableford where punters played the
front nine twice.
The 22-marker carded seven pars in a hat-tip to a player who when he's on - he's on.
Runner-up in Div 2 was Paul McElhinney (25 handicap) on 34 points.
Deidre Fletcher (14) had 82 off the stick for 36 points to salute in
Div 1 on countback from Peter Bush (17).
Henny Oldenhove (17), Daniel Wassens (14) and Bryan Ussher (27) headed the ball run with 34 points and the last to collect was Murray Ingram (11) on 31.
Trophy botherer Scott Burley jagged the Ecomist longest putt on
Bowra Bowls Report
By BUNCHA
AFTER all the recent rain, bowls are returning to normality. Thursday 12th social bowls saw the winners prizemoney going to Col Vine, Mike Oldham and Chris D'Elboux. Col is only a new bowler trying his hand at the sport and is really keen and enjoying it immensely. Keep it up mate. The lucky bowler was Greg
Doolan. The Club Fours were finally played last Sunday 15th. A closely contested affair was witnessed with Steve Wellington, Dean Roe, Tracey Armes and Paul O'Neill up against Craig Doolan, Danny Doolan, Greg Doolan and Pat Clough. "After six ends Wello held a slender 4-3 lead with Craig leading 9-8 after eleven showing how even the teams were. Down 15-9 after fourteen, Wello's
team, with lead Paul O'Neill playing excellent draw bowls, picked up ten shots in the next five ends to lead 19-15 with only two ends remaining. Craig picked up two shots to go down 17-19. Congratulations to all players for producing a great final. Nominations sheets are on the notice board for the Major & Minor pairs. Get your teams organised now. The next Valley over 50's will be held at Stuarts Point on Monday July 7th, Club delegates are advised to remind their players.
the first, while Paddy Byrne took the nearest the pin on 7, Geoff Brooks on 8 and Matt Dyer pocketed a healthy $55 for the Pro Pin.
Meanwhile, it will be a big week for The Island's recently well travelled Junior Champion (Sm) Ashton Herbert as he heads to Dubbo this weekend for the NSW All
Nambucca on 14 June.
Schools Golf Championships . The 17-year-old goes into the tournament with hopes, dreams and no pressure as he is one of the longest markers in a field peppered with plus-handicap annoying young people.
Catchya on The Island - the river grabbed us all, but we're back, baby.
Sports Results
CALLING all Nambucca Valley sporting and recreation clubs!
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Monday evening for publication on a Friday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it inour dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
q Deidre Fletcher continued her hot form run, winning Div 1 at
q Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club's Ashton Herbert in full send mode.
Magpies go top of the ladder
By Aiden BURGESS
PORT Macquarie Magpies have gone to the top of the AFL North Coast ladder after thrashing the Macleay Valley Eagles by 23.12 (150) to 7.9 (51) in Nambucca Heads, during the latest round of the AFL North Coast season.
Reserves
Sawtell/Toormina Saints had a 4.8 (32) to 3.9 (27) win against the Coffs Harbour Breakers, in their
local derby at Richardson Park.
Port Macquarie Magpies belted the Nambucca Valley Lions 16.9 (105) to 7.3 (45) in Nambucca Heads.
Women’s Coffs Harbour Breakers went to the top of the ladder with a 6.7 (43) to 3.2 (20) win against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints at Richardson Park.
Northern Beaches Blues had a 4.6 (30) to 0.2 (2) win against the Port Macquarie Magpies in
Group 2 Rugby League mid-season review
By Aiden BURGESS
THE current Group 2 Rugby League season has reached its midway point.
Here is how each club has fared so far this season.
Woolgoolga Seahorses: Set the benchmark this season having remained undefeated so far, having shown the form that saw them win the club’s maiden premiership in 2023.
The Seahorses women sit on top of the ladder having also remained undefeated.
The club’s reserves are currently second on the ladder.
Sawtell Panthers: Their first grade side sit in second spot on the ladder, with their two losses coming against the team coming first on the ladder, and against the reigning premiers.
The Panthers women haven't been as dominant as they were last season, with the defending premiers sitting third on the ladder.
The reserves also sit third on the ladder in their competition.
Nambucca Roosters: The defending premiers started the season strongly but have lost their past two games to sit third on the ladder.
Their Under 18s side sit third on the ladder.
South Grafton Rebels: Have had an up and down start to the season and sit fourth on the ladder having split their four games.
Coffs Harbour Comets: Have turned things around after three straight losses to start the season, winning their past two games.
The club’s two-time defending premiers reserve grade side currently sit in third spot on the ladder.
Macksville Sea Eagles: Were the first team to beat the defending premiers this season, but have struggled for consistency.
Ladder leaders in both the reserve grade and Under 18s competitions.
Grafton Ghosts: Have found the going tough early this season with one win from their opening five games.
The Ghosts women and Under 18s are both second in their respective competitions.
Seahorses continue undefeated start to the season
By Aiden BURGESS
WOOLGOOLGA Seahorses have continued their undefeated start to the Group 2 Rugby League season in emphatic style.
The Seahorses sent a statement of premiership-winning intent with a 42-18 win against the Nambucca Roosters, in their top of the ladder showdown in Woolgoolga.
Coffs Harbour Comets won their second match in a row, beating the South Grafton Rebels 28-12 at Geoff King Motors Oval.
The Grafton Ghosts broke through for their first win of the season in dramatic style, edging out the Macksville Sea Eagles 26-24 at home.
Reserves
Macksville Sea Eagles maintained top spot on the ladder with a 34-26 win against the Grafton Ghosts in Grafton.
The Woolgoolga Seahorses consolidated second spot on the ladder with a 32-26 win at home against the Nambucca Roosters.
Nambucca Heads.
Under 18s
Sawtell/Toormina Saints smashed the Coffs Harbour Breakers 11.17 (83) to 3.3 (21) at Richardson Park.
Port Macquarie Magpies won their fifth straight game to start the season, smashing the Northern Beaches Blues 14.14 (98) to 3.2 (20) in Nambucca Heads.
Round 8
The AFL North Coast season
continues this weekend with Round 8 games in Coffs Harbour, Grafton, and Woolgoolga. The Coffs Harbour Breakers welcome the Port Macquarie Magpies to Fitzroy Oval.
The Breakers won by 14 points when they last met in Round 4.
Grafton Tigers host the Macleay Valley Eagles, with the Eagles having won by six points when they last played in Round 4.
Northern Beaches Blues and Sawtell/Toormina Saints women’s and Under 18s sides play off at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
Northern Beaches Blues reserves host the Nambucca Valley Lions. Seniors ladder. 1.Port Macquarie Magpies. 12 points. 3 wins. 1 loss. Match ratio: 75. 223.16%. 2.Macleay Valley Eagles. 8 points. 2 wins. 1 loss. Match ratio: 66.66. 73.63%. 3.Coffs Harbour Breakers. 12 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 60. 190.29%. 4.Sawtell/Toormina Saints. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 50. 96.48%. 5.Grafton Tigers. 0 points. 0 wins. 4 losses. Match ratio: 0. 35.50%.
Nambucca Bowls Report
By Charles POTTER
THE $13000 Ken Howard 2025 Fours Tournament was run over three days, June 7,8,9 and, although cool, the weather was kind to us. In the final, the Shearer team proved a little too strong for Nambucca's Rhys Riddell and his Park Beach team of Jeff Thorn, Ben Crotty, and Dale Condon. They also bought themselves in the Calcutta to add another $4000 odd to their tally. Equal third places to Glen Simmington, Tony Potter, James Cook, Gary Pearson and Wayne Rowbottom, Ian Mann, Mick Callaghan and A Appleby. Losing Quarter Finalists were the teams of J Swan, G Brown, G Hill and A Thornhill. The Repechage Group A winners were Bali Ruane, Peter McRitchie, Ty Webber, S Haines, Second Adam Davies, Adam Rostron, Ken Rostron, Graeme Hill. Group B winners Terry Snowden, Stu Hughes, Aaron Cedelland and Graeme Porter, 2ndWayne Terry Steele, Wayne Carr, G Weekes and Steve Carr. The Ken Howard Triples on Friday was taken out by Jeff Thorn, Dale Condon and Rhys Riddell. Sorry, not sure who ran second and third. It was a superbly run tournament throughout and special thanks to Chandler and the bar staff, and Dave Ogilvy who raised the funds to make it $16000. Next year is the 50th Ken Howard... sure to be bigger and better!
Other results: Wed June 4. 26 bowlers and the day's major prize
afternoon.
Coffs Harbour Comets had a 4222 win at home against the South Grafton Rebels.
Women’s
Woolgoolga Seahorses remain undefeated this season, after having an 18-8 win at home against the Nambucca Roosters.
The Grafton Ghosts maintained second spot on the ladder with a 38-6 win at home against the Macksville Sea Eagles.
Under 18s
Macksville Sea Eagles continued their undefeated start to the season, winning their sixth straight game by beating the Grafton Ghosts 1614 in their top of the ladder clash in Grafton.
Nambucca Roosters consolidated third spot on the ladder with a 36-10 win against the Woolgoolga Seahorses.
South Grafton Rebels had a 2816 win against the Coffs Harbour Comets.
Round 8
The Group 2 Rugby League season continues this weekend with Round 8 games.
Woolgoolga Seahorses host the South Grafton Rebels on Saturday
It’s the two sides first meeting this season after their opening round match was washed out.
Sawtell Panthers return from the bye by making the trip to take on the Grafton Ghosts on Sunday afternoon.
The Panthers started their season with a 30-26 win against the Ghosts when they last met in Round 1.
Coffs Harbour Comets are also away from home as they travel to take on the Macksville Sea Eagles on Sunday afternoon.
The Sea Eagles had a 24-18 victory when they last met in the opening round.
to Duffo and Chris D'Elboux with Paul Michel, Ken Brown and Peter Fredericks second and Ray Platt, Mick Boyle and Ken Rostron third. Lucky losers... Perry McNally, Stu Thorne and G Squires. Bob Sutton was the Lucky Bowler but missed the Jackpot of $180.
Wed June 11 attracted 24 players with Stan Flack, Marg Duffus and BackfromBali Ruane the winners. Second to Stu Thorne, Fletch and Danny Curren and third to T Angel, H Aladadjan and Duffo. C Martell (visitor from Newport Beach), Mel Legend and D Hastie were the Lucky Losers. E Martell was the Lucky Bowler but missed the jackpot of $210.
Fri June 13 A field of 56 and the winners were Doug and Aaron Cedelland and Charlie Potter. Frank Ronan, Barry Redman and
Peter Fredericks runners up and Gary Tierney and Andrew Power were third. Lucky Losers to John McCollom, P Fantin and Wayne Dargan. Stan Flack missed the Jackpot of $420.
Sun Jun 15 Winners Patto, Rosie Dugdale and Elaine Fleming. Lucky Losers Stu Thorne, Wayne Dargan and Pat Fletcher.
There is a Charity Footy Bowls Day set down for Sunday July 13. Entry is $40 a player, teams of 4, which includes breakfast, bowls, guest speaker and lunch. Entries close July 11 - the sheet is up now. Minor Singles and Pairs Entry sheets are up. Singles closes Fri June 27 with matches scheduled for July 5,6,12,13. Pairs closes Aug 15 to be played Aug 23, 24, 30, 31. Players will pay $10 for each round played in both except the finals
Nambucca Valley Bridge Club News
By Barbara MARANIK
RESULTS for Week ending 15th June 2025
Monday 9th June 2025
North/South
1st Scott Parker & Geoffrey Gardner 60%, 2nd Susie Keur & Les Sinclair 58%, 3rd Maureen Cowan & Amber Fox 55%
East/West
1st Susan Humphrey & Sue Paff 56%, 2nd Judy Holliday & Robert Baker 55%, 3rd Theda Faulwetter 54%
Tuesday 10th June 2025
1st Equal Jane & Greg Wood plus Amber Fox & Carol McKee 62%, 2nd Maureen Cowan & Theda
Faulwetter
Thursday 12th June 2025
North/South
1st Barbara Lott & Linda Siford 61%, 2nd Maureen Cowan & Janet Dyson 59%, 3rd Equal Gary & Louise Walton plus Leonie Harrison & Sandra Ellis 47%
East/West
1st Jan Wood & Alison Savage 60%, 2nd Amber Fox & Carol McKee 55%, 3rd Barry Butler & Colin Tolley 54%
Saturday 14th June 2025
1st Charles Aspden 62%, 2nd Scott Parker & Geoffrey Gardner 57% 3rd Maureen Cowan & Barb Maranik 50%
q Ken Howard Winners 2025 - Michael McMahon, skip Andrew Shearer, Graham Maier, Lee Paterson.
HYPOTHETICAL
By Manny WOOD
Residence rights questioned after assault
SIBLINGS William and Ken became the registered proprietors of their late mother’s home when she passed-away 15 years ago.
They have both been living in the home since.
Unfortunately, whilst in their 70s, an incident occurs whereby Ken assaults William with a baseball bat, causing him bodily harm.
He is charged and enters into a good behaviour bond for 12 months.
William nonetheless vacates the property, too fearful to continue cohabitation with his brother.
William wants the property to be sold and after obtaining legal advice, commences proceedings against Ken in the Supreme Court.
In his defence, Ken relies on the terms of his late mother’s will, which expresses a wish that he be “permitted to reside in the house until they express a desire to move from the property”.
William’s counsel argue that William was also entitled to reside in the house, subject to an implied condition, that he could “peaceably reside and enjoy the house”.
A technical argument between the parties emerges, in which a declaration is sought as to whether the right to reside in the property, under the terms of the will, is a legal right or merely a non-binding direction.
The Court conducts an exercise of interpreting the provisions of the will, with reference to the “armchair principle”, whereby the late mother’s intentions are deduced from the “surrounding circumstances” at the time she made the will, several decades earlier.
Evidence from the original will drafter is heard.
The Court rules that in the context of the words used in the will, the right to reside in the property, did not create a “legal right”.
Alternatively, the Court rules that the right to reside could not be relied upon by Ken separately as it was a “joint” right, which could be ended by either of the brothers.
Ultimately, the Court makes orders appointing an independent solicitor to proceed with the sale of the property and also orders Ken to vacate the property within 28 days.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
Have Your Say
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the Editor around available space, relevance and appropriateness. Email us media@newsofthearea.com.au
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch
Yarn lovers join global movement
By Jen HETHERINGTON
THE Nambucca Valley’s Yarn Lovers Unite! group gathered at Café Eighteen in Nambucca Plaza to commemorate Worldwide Knit in Public Day on Saturday, 14 June.
Members enjoyed warm beverages and got to work on knitting and crochet projects.
“Quite a few people stopped by to ask us what we were doing or to talk about their grandmas teaching them to knit or crochet,” said Yarn Lovers Unite! coordinator Kathleen Chalmers.
“I think it was quite nostalgic for lots.”
Worldwide Knit in Public Day was founded in 2005 by Danielle Landes in the United States and remains the world’s largest knitting event.
It has since been staged on the second Saturday of June every year across the globe.
The object of the event is to showcase knitting, and corresponding yarn-based crafts like crochet, weaving and macramé, as an enjoyable activity
for all ages.
Kathleen explained the local group’s ethos.
“We are a social gathering of yarn lovers, knitters, crocheters, dyers, spinners, weavers and felters located on the Mid North Coast,” she said.
“We meet weekly on a Wednesday at about 11am at a variety of local meeting spots, generally at Café Zen in Macksville.
“All venues have access to coffee!
“We currently have 70 members on the Facebook group and about 16 regulars to the group catchup on Wednesdays.
“We are hoping to gauge interest in a Sunday group for those who work or just can't make it on Wednesdays.”
The group also supports the local Country Women’s Association branch, enabling completion of projects for the community. They encourage new members, regardless of age, gender or proficiency, to bring a project to work on at their events where they share tips and creative tricks and enjoy the social setting.
DEAR Jasminda,
WHEN I was in the hairdresser last week, I overheard the woman opposite me tell the hairdresser that she wanted a new style because she was about to leave her husband after 18 years of marriage. On my way out, I took a quick glance at the person in question, and realised, to my horror, that it was Claudia from my social group.
I now feel burdened by this information.
She seemed so happy in her relationship.
We were even invited to a dinner cruise with her and Larry in a couple of weeks.
What do I do now?
Leanne Q.
Dear Leanne,
Perhaps instead of telling you what to do, I should tell you what not to do.
Under no circumstances should you repeat this conversation, told in confidence, to anyone else. What happens at Sharon's Live and Let Dye Salon stays at Sharon's Live and Let Dye Salon.
A hairdressing salon is very much like a confessional booth (with more comfortable chairs and Taylor Swift's Shake it Off on rotation).
Hairdressers, due to the amount of time they spend giving their customers their undivided attention, become a therapist of sorts.
A simple, 'How are you? Can I get you a tea or coffee?' followed by three hours of pampering, sets off a chain reaction that invariably results in customers feeling relaxed enough and 'heard' enough to chat about everything
Macksville Country Club Golf
By Max TURNER
AT LAST, following disruptions from rain, floods, and soggy conditions greenkeeper Rick and his helpers have the course looking a picture. Saturday's Neil and Ali Cunneen sponsored Stableford drew 60 players with Luke Laverty coming in with a net 40 to win Div 1 ahead of runner up Jake Fuller. Division 2 went to Eddy Booth with GlenTaylor runner up. Play of the day was on the par 4 first hole with big hitter Mick Manning's drive finishing 30 cm's from the hole for a tap in eagle. On the 28th there is a 4 person Ambrose planned as a Memorial day for former popular A grader, Gus McKay. The ladies Stableford on Tuesday was won by Carmel Fruedenstein from Desma Hughes with Carmel and Jo Montague the straight shooters scoring nearest the pins. Jake Fuller had a good week, winning the Mid Week Competition with Beau Lavender runner up
from children's careers to sick parents, to, in this case, unravelling relationships.
A hairdresser is much more than someone who styles hair.
They quite literally strip down surface pretensions.
Who else sees you in the harsh light of day, reflected back to yourself in a mirror, half a roll of foil clamped around your regrowth, a dark cape enhancing the purple circles under your eyes.
And so begins the great unburdening.
The conversation starts simply enough, often with the weather, but by the time you reach the basin with its reclining chair, essential oils wafting through the air, and a cranial massage delivered by the hands of an angel, not only are you ready to tell your hairdresser your innermost secrets, you're probably ready to include them in your will.
Then, feeling a bit light headed, you confidently agree to anything, including the offer of the extra-cost hair smoothing treatment and blowdry, and you feel incredible.
You also naively believe that you will be able to pull off the new style with your Kmart hairdryer and some hair clips.
This is the stage your friend was at.
She felt unburdened and vivacious. Her hairdresser was just about to remove her cape in the final unveiling, like a butterfly emerging from a cocoon (or perhaps like a woman leaving Larry the plumber with his gammy leg and gambling addiction) when she spotted you and the spell was broken.
Leanne, I implore you to treat the overheard conversation with the discretion it deserves.
Perhaps your friend will announce her decision on the cruise.
Until then, hold your tongue more firmly than Sharon wrangling your hair into a topknot.
Carpe diem, Jasminda
q Yarn Lovers Unite! members Kathleen Chalmers, Maureen Stewart, Robyn Mattick, Tracey Costa and Yvonne Roberts.
q Steve Hunt , Ross Donnelly , Karl Cooper , Jim Wilkes and Paul Donges .
Death Notice
MAGUIRE,
John Lance
‘Willy’ ‘Sarg’
30 April 1948 - 15 June 2025
Late of Yamba. Dearly loved Husband of Joy (decd). Loving Partner of Robyn. Father of Juleanne and Ricky. Treasured Pop to Hannah,Callan and Bella. Dear Brother of Richard, Geoffrey (decd), Terry and their families.
AGED 77 YEARS
As per John’s wishes a Private Cremation has been held.
John’s Family invite you to join them for a Celebration of His Life to be held at the Yamba Golf and Country Club, Yamba Friday 4 July 2025 commencing at 11:00am.
BEST ON THE BOX
SUNDAY
SPICKS AND SPECKS
ABC TV, 7.30pm
It’s been 20 years since Spicks and Specks first aired and Australia realised that watching famous folk replace song lyrics with completely unrelated texts was TV gold. To celebrate, host Adam Hills and team captains Myf Warhurst and Alan Brough are back with another round of their greatest hits. Tonight’s guests include comedians Nina Oyama and Steph Tisdell, stage and screen powerhouse Natalie Bassingthwaighte (pictured, with Oyama), Ball Park Music frontman Sam Cromack and with singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko serenading the winning team once all is said and done.
FRIDAY, June 20
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00
MONDAY
STRANDED ON HONEYMOON ISLAND
SEVEN, 7.30pm
If you were marooned on a deserted island, what three things would you bring? A bridal gown, bouquet and a blind date probably aren’t too high on the list, but in this new reality romance series, that’s exactly what you can expect. After a speed dating event, 12 singles (including Amy, right) are matched up and married, before being dropped off on a remote tropical island with nothing but their formalwear and each other. Completely removed from their lives, technology and distractions, it’s an immersive experience not for the fainthearted, as the lovelorn participants have nowhere to hide – but everything to gain. Radio star Jackie O narrates as sparks fly and campfires aren’t the only thing igniting.
TUESDAY
WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?
As ubiquitous as award-
filmmaker and podcaster Marc Fennell (pictured) might seem on TV, host is just now making an appearance on this evergreen search for ancestral answers.
Fennell is used to helping others uncover their hidden histories, but the time has come to turn the lens on himself.
Seeking clarity about his Indian grandparents’ lives and the experiences that shaped them, Fennell starts his exploration in Singapore, before visiting Malaysia to learn more about his great-grandmother and her unique heritage. Then, it’s a long way to Tipperary, where Fennell finds forbidden love and a couple of Irish scandals (and scoundrels) on his father’s side.
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (PG) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney prunes apples and pears. 8.30 The One That Got Away. (Mal) News from Paul Harvey leads Ffion to a shocking revelation about Rick’s past.
9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 11.20 ABC Late News.
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGal) Melissa Doyle and Shane Crawford are joined by Yvie Jones and Archie Thompson to discuss skin checks.
9.30 MOVIE: Maid In Manhattan. (2002, PGls, R) A senatorial candidate falls for a maid. Jennifer Lopez, Ralph Fiennes.
11.40 Border Security: International. (PGadl)
12.10 Nurses. (Ma, R)
1.10 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 16. Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Wests Tigers versus Canberra Raiders match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Out Of Time. (2003, Mlv, R) A police chief investigates a double murder. Denzel Washington, Eva Mendes.
12.45 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
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! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 10.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 24 Hours of Le Mans. 10.05 Bewitched. 10.35 Jeannie. 11.05 Reunited. 12.05pm 9Honey: He Said She Said. 12.10 MOVIE: The Evil Twin. (2021, M) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. Clare looks for a home for her family in Western Sydney. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Guests include Ricky Gervais. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
SATURDAY, June 21
6.00 Landline. (R)
6.30 Australian Story: Forget Me Not – Jim Rogers. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Classic 100 Concert 2025. The Classic 100 countdown is performed in concert.
9.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv, R) Stella is forced to realise that being the new Queen of Mystery Bay isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
9.55 Little Disasters. (Mal, R) A mother rushes her baby to the emergency room.
10.40 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef: Builders. (R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.50 Dance Life. 9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet.
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (PGa)
9.35 Irish Road Trip With Miriam Margolyes. (Ml, R)
10.35 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R) 11.35 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
3.10 The World From Above. (R)
4.15 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
4.45 Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00
Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Authorities investigate a nervous man. 7.30 MOVIE: Jurassic World Dominion. (2022, Mav) Earth is once again dominated by prehistoric predators. Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard. 10.40 MOVIE: Black Hawk Down. (2001, MA15+lv, R) Josh Hartnett. 1.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 6. Darwin Triple Crown. Day 1. Highlights.
3.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGal, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (Final, PG) 8.30 MOVIE: The Vow. (2012, PGalns, R) 10.35 MOVIE: When Harry Met Sally. (1989, Mls, R) 12.25 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PGl, R) 1.10 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 1.35 Destination WA. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop. (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 must decide whether to stay or leave. 8.30 House Hunters Australia. (R) Newlyweds must decide between the inner-city and suburban North Shore for their first home. 9.30 Airport 24/7. (PGa, R) Duty manager Dan must deal with holiday passenger numbers and a self-check-in outage. 10.30 Elsbeth. (PGv, R) 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
(32)
SUNDAY, June 22
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG)
8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Mlv) Stella scrambles to adapt to her new way of life.
8.55 Little Disasters. (Mdls) Police and Social Services investigate jointly.
9.45 MOVIE: Wake In Fright. (1971, Masv, R) A teacher stays overnight in a mining town. Donald Pleasence.
11.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R)
12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Play School Show Time. 5.45 Peter Rabbit. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Super Shark Highway. 10.30 Abbott Elementary.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Nick Knowles Into The Grand Canyon. (PGa, R)
8.25 The Lost Scrolls Of Vesuvius With Alice Roberts. (PG, R)
9.20 The Zelensky Story. (PGa, R)
10.15 New Zealand From A Train. (R)
11.10 Marilyn: Her Final Secret. (PGa, R)
12.10 24 Hours In Emergency. (PGa, R)
2.55 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
3.45 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.15 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly. (R)
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 8.15 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 10.10 Dating The Enemy. (1996, M) 12.10pm The Lawnmower Man. (1992, M) 2.50 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 4.35 First Cow. (2019, PG) 6.50 Sky Pirates. (1986) 8.30 Gone Girl. (2014, MA15+) 11.15 Eager Bodies. (2003, MA15+, French) 1am The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 2.45 Late Programs. 6am
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PGl)
8.45 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.45 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Madv) 10.45 Crime Investigation Australia. (MA15+alv, R) 12.15 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 6. Darwin Triple Crown. Day 2. Highlights. 1.15 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R) 2.30 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 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PG) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.40 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav)
The First 48. (Ma, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Business Drive. (R)
Today Early News.
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns to impress judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe
Summerland. Continued. (2020, PG) 6.40 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 8.20 Sky Pirates. (1986) 10.00 Last Cab To Darwin. (2015, M) 12.10pm Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 3.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.55 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 6.55 Anne Of Green Gables. (2016, PG) 8.30 Love And Mercy. (2014, M) 10.40 Late Programs.
Macksville strongman’s display of true strength
FROM Page 20
SBS MOVIES (32) event.
“Weight training can make you strong, so I had a good foundation of strength,” he said.
“I invested in Strongman coaching and trained for the events.
“I trained a lot at my home gym and MMAFC where I work as a personal trainer.”
Allen explained what he loved most about competing in Strongman competitions.
“The community is cool and the
“You simulate the events you will be doing with what you have available.
way they get behind you and support you is awesome,” he said.
“It’s a great way to challenge yourself and get strong at the same time.”
Having triumphed in two novice events and in his very first Open’s event, the Strongman is looking forward to competing for years to come.
“I’m going to continue training and compete for at least the next 10 years,” he said.
“I’m taking a break from competing for six months due to my back pain, and I will work hard to come back leaner, faster and stronger early 2026.
“I believe winning this competition was a qualifier for World Strength Games 2026 which may be on the cards.”
The Strongman champion had a clear mantra that he lives by.
“Motion is lotion, keeping as strong and active as possible for as long as possible,” he said.
“If I can do it after my injury, anyone can.”
9GO! (83)
9GO!
(PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PG, R)
8.25 Michael Palin In Nigeria. (Final, PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (R)
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 Classified. (Malv) 11.30 Kin. (MA15+l, R)
2.25 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
3.15 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.15 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) David hits a dead end.
7.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Premiere, Mal) Aussies are married and stranded on an island. 9.05 Farmer Wants A Wife. (Final, PGal) The farmers return. 10.45 The Agenda Setters. 11.45 Autopsy USA. (Mad, R)
12.50 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Mals)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
SBS MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.10 Anne Of Green Gables. (2016, PG) 7.45
First Cow. (2019, PG) 10.00 The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 11.45 Lord Of The Ants. (2022, M, Italian) 2.20pm The Movie Show. 2.55 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 5.40 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 7.45 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 9.30 Burn All My Letters. (2022, MA15+, Swedish) 11.40 Our Kind Of Traitor. (2016, MA15+) 1.40am Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.00 The Point. (R)
12.00 Headhunters. (Malv, R)
1.45 Freezing Embrace. (MA15+av, R)
4.15 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.45 Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Man
Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 8.00 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 10.00 Nowhere Special. (2020, M) 11.45 Into The Darkness. (2020, M, Danish) 2.30pm The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.25 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 6.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 7.55 The Assistant. (2019, M) 9.30 Godland. (2022, M, Danish) 12.15am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Cash gets a clue.
7.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mals) Three new couples say “I do”. 9.20 Doc. (Ma) Gina deals with a devastating revelation. Amy is forced to confront her demons.
10.20 Accused. (Masv)
11.20 The Agenda Setters. 12.20 Fairly Legal. (Ma, R) 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
A Current Affair.
LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (Final, PG) 9.00 100% Footy. (M)
Aussie Road
7MATE (64)
WEDNESDAY, June 25
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Hunt For Truth: Tasmanian Tiger. (PG, R)
8.30 Harrods: The Rise And Fall Of A British Institution. (Ma)
9.25 The Veil. (MA15+av)
10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 My Brilliant Friend. (Malv)
11.50 L’Opera. (Mls, R)
3.40 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Final Countdown. Continued. (1980, PG) 6.10 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 7.55 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 10.00 The Assistant. (2019, M) 11.35 Decision To Leave. (2022, M, Chinese) 2.05pm The Movie Show. 2.40 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 4.40 Discovering Film: Gene Hackman. 5.40 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 7.30 Sing Street. (2016, M) 9.30 Love Proof. (2022, M, Swedish) 11.10 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, June 26
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes.
8.30 7/7: The London Bombings: Fragments Of Evidence. (Ma)
9.40 Sherlock & Daughter. (Final, Mv)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 The Silence. (Malv)
1.00 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av, R)
2.45 Colosseum. (Masv, R)
3.30 9/11: Four Flights. (PGa, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Roswell: The First Witness. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.45am
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Discovering Film: Gene Hackman. 6.25 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 8.15 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 10.10 Godland. (2022, M, Danish) 12.45pm While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.35 The Movie Show. 3.10 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) 5.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 7.30 Ali. (2001, M) 10.25 Quake. (2021, M, Icelandic) 12.20am The Red Riding Trilogy: 1983. (2009, MA15+) 2.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
(64)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGd)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Presented by Graeme Hall.
8.30 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009, PGls, R) An editor gets engaged to her assistant to get a green card so she can continue working in the US. Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds.
10.50 To Be Advised.
12.35 Life. (Madv, R) 1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
(64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Australia’s Most Identical. (Final, PG) 9.10 The Grand Tour. (Ml)
10.40 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
La Brea. (Mv, R)
Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30
9GO! (83)
9GO!
True strength
By Aiden BURGESS
ALLEN Willis was in a very dark place just five years ago.
A workplace accident left him not only crippling hip and back pain, but severe depression.
“I needed a walking stick to walk as my hip kept collapsing, and with crippling back pain, it left me feeling very depressed, and I had thoughts of ending it all,” he said.
“When you see your wife having to look after the kids by herself and the stress that causes.
“Knowing I didn’t want to traumatise my kids but being emotionally unstable due to the pain.
“I didn't want to cause them any distress, but my pain was causing them pain.”
But through a room of darkness came a ray of light that turned around his life.
trainer,” he said.
“That injury forced me to start from scratch and rebuild my mind and body.
“You are either a victim of circumstances or you can learn to thrive off them, and even if you have chronic pain like myself, you can achieve more than you currently believe possible.
“Studying fitness, completing the course, learning how to train, definitely saved my life.”
Allen’s new-found enthusiasm for life led him to enter Strongman competitions, eventuating in the best win of his career so far over the June long weekend.
The 40-year-old Macksville resident won the Open Men’s event at the Broke’s Strongest competition, held in Broke in the Hunter region.
“I decided I needed to help myself, and so I completed a Certificate 3 and 4 in fitness at TAFE in Coffs Harbour and started learning how to help rebuild my body and in the process became a personal
He competed in five events; the lever log deadlift, log bench press, Hercules hold, Log Carry, and a truck pull.
Allen described how he prepared for such a gruelling
