THE Nambucca Valley is grappling with the aftermath of one of its worst ever natural disasters, following last week’s
extreme weather event that triggered widespread flooding across the region.
The Nambucca River surged well past major flood levels, peaking at 3.03 metres in Macksville, passing the 2.60 metre threshold, causing the inundation of many homes and prompting emergency evacuations.
In an interview with Sky News, Mayor Gary Lee described the events as “catastrophic”, saying he hadn’t seen flooding of this scale in over 50 years.
While the Nambucca Valley didn’t suffer the same scale of property loss seen in Kempsey and MidCoast local government areas, the impact was deeply felt especially in Macksville, which bore the
CONTINUED Page 3
Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed secures permanent home after decadelong search
HERE TO STAY
By Mick Birtles
A SIGNIFICANT milestone was reached this week for the Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed, with the official handover of the Land Title for their premises, marking the end of a ten-year search for a permanent home.
In a symbolic moment, long-time President of the Men’s Shed, John Kent OAM, received the Land
Title document from Stuart Holmes, representing the now-disbanded Nambucca Heads Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA). The VRA, which vacated
CONTINUED Page 2
q A boat navigates a flooded Princess Street, Macksville during last week's disaster event. Photo: Caleb Casey.
Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed secures permanent home after decade-long search
FROM Page 1
the premises five years ago, was forced to close due to a decline in volunteer numbers, a situation that reflects a broader trend in volunteer organisations nationwide.
“The lack of willingness by many members of the community to volunteer is having negative impacts right across our community’s volunteer sector and, in our case, it ended us,” former VRA member Steve Ryan told News Of The Area.
For Mr Kent, who is set to step down as President at the organisation’s AGM in August, the transfer represents the culmination of years of effort.
“To finally have a permanent home for the Men’s Shed after years of working towards it is really something remarkable,” he told NOTA.
He acknowledged the role of various government grants and the steadfast support from the Nambucca Heads RSL Club in helping the group keep its doors open during the past decade.
“Now, the days of
having to pay rent just to exist are finally behind us,” Mr Kent said.
He praised the collective effort of the Shed’s 36 members and commended the former VRA members for their generosity and communitymindedness in facilitating the transfer.
The considerable efforts of local solicitor Terry Perkins, who provided the legal services required for the transfer, free of charge, were also recognised.
The significance of this event stretches
beyond bricks and mortar.
According to the Australian Men’s Shed Association, Men’s Sheds play a vital role in addressing social isolation and mental health among men, particularly those in retirement or living alone.
Former VRA member and current Men’s Shed stalwart Stuart Holmes emphasised this point.
“An ambulance may go to the bottom of a cliff to pick up the pieces, so I see the Men’s Shed as being the ambulance parked at the top of the cliff,” he said.
“Just as the VRA saved lives, I believe Men’s Sheds also save lives.”
q Stuart Homes, representing the VRA, hands over the Land Title to Nambucca Heads Men’s Shed President John Kent OAM, in the presence of representatives from both organisations
Flooding hits Nambucca Valley as businesses, homes and farms count the cost
FROM Page 1
brunt of the damage.
Businesses in Macksville’s CBD were particularly hardhit.
Stock losses, infrastructure damage, and days without trade are just some of the challenges facing local business owners.
Ben Fuller, co-owner of Ben and Lenny’s Cafe on Princess Street, told News Of The Area, “We had ankle-deep water through our business and have had to rapidly replace many electrical fittings.”
Despite losing four days of trade, the cafe has reopened thanks to family and community support.
Other local businesses weren’t as fortunate.
Well-known boutique Lucy Fru Fru and many other businesses in the Macksville CBD experienced greater damage and stock losses, while the team at Galeria CC on Wallace Street had four sleepless nights fending off floodwaters.
“The drains on Wallace Street failed early in the rain event,” said Anthony Burton,
who owns and operates the Galeria CC with his wife Felice.
“By the time the river broke its banks, water on the street was already a big problem.”
Rob Torelli of Macksville Music Station narrowly avoided disaster, with floodwaters stopping just three centimetres from entering his premises.
Fresh Dental Care, also on Princess Street, lost four days of trading after water entered the premises for the first time in 13 years.
Rural areas and smaller
communities also suffered.
Bowraville was isolated for extended periods due to cut roads, though many residents commended Nambucca Valley Council for quickly restoring access to Lanes Bridge once the waters subsided.
The village of Scotts Head was cut off for nearly three days, with essential supplies running low and residents turning to social media to express concern over resupply delays.
Further inland, communities such as Taylors Arm endured extended periods of isolation, while rural properties across the
valley reported significant damage to fencing, farm access roads, and feed supplies.
Macadamia grower Mick Williams reported that the already wet conditions worsened by the deluge had prevented machinery from entering orchards to harvest, potentially costing up to 30 percent of this year’s crop.
In response, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), alongside partner agencies, launched rapid damage assessments in Macksville, Bowraville, and Nambucca Heads.
The Insurance Council of Australia declared the
disaster a “Significant Event,” anticipating a high number of claims.
To aid recovery efforts, the federal government has announced emergency relief payments of $1,000 per adult and $400 per child for residents in severely affected areas.
Although floodwaters have receded, authorities are urging residents to remain cautious. Some areas remain hazardous, and people are advised to stay informed through official channels and refrain from returning to damaged zones until deemed safe.
q The flooded Island Golf Course at Nambucca Heads, looking toward the mouth of the Nambucca River. Photo: NHIGC.
q Many businesses in the Macksville CBD were inundated by floodwaters. Photo: Ben Fuller.
Transport support for floodaffected residents
THE Community Transport Company has announced it will be providing specialised transport services for residents affected by the recent floods across the Nambucca, Bellingen, and Coffs Harbour local government areas.
For the next two weeks, the organisation is offering dedicated transport support to help flood-affected residents access essential services such as medical appointments, hospital visits, supermarket trips and other critical errands.
Bethany Langford, CEO of The Community Transport Company, said the initiative aims to ensure people who are without access to a safe vehicle or other transport can still meet their basic needs.
“We know the impact of flooding doesn’t stop
when the water recedes,” Ms Langford said.
“This service is about making sure people stay connected to healthcare, food, and their community
while they recover.”
The Community Transport Company encourages people to book their transport a day or two in advance to ensure availability
and appropriate scheduling.
Residents can call 1300 812 504 to book their transport.
The Community Transport Company is a volunteer-driven not-forprofit charity servicing the Mid North and Far North coasts of NSW.
q The service will allow flood-affected residents access to essential services.
Ministers witness flood devastation
KEMPSEY Shire Council Mayor Kinne Ring welcomed a delegation of state and federal Ministers to the region on Monday, 26 May to witness firsthand the widespread devastation caused by recent flooding and to advocate for urgent recovery support.
Since November 2009 there have been 26 natural disaster declarations for the Kempsey Shire with multiple floods, bushfires, intense drought and coastal storms.
While the Macleay River, that winds its way through most of the shire, is critical to the agriculture industry and the area’s development, it also creates a significant and complex catchment area of 11,500 square kilometres, much of which
has been devastated by the recent flood.
The Ministers’ visit was supported by the Member for Oxley Michael Kemp and Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan.
Joining them were Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain, NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin, and NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison.
Also in attendance were senior representatives from the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the National Emergency Management Agency, who joined the Ministers and Council in inspecting the damage, hearing firsthand from locals and discussing recovery priorities.
During the visit, the Ministers travelled across the region, meeting with impacted farmers, business owners, community members, volunteers and emergency service personnel.
Mayor Ring acknowledged the visit as providing a powerful insight into the scale of the disaster and the impact on the local community.
“This was a critical opportunity to
show our state and federal leaders the real impacts of this disaster on our community, local businesses and the agricultural industry,” said Mayor Ring.
“I am very grateful for their time and attention and am calling on them to provide further funding to help Council, our residents
Man charged after shots allegedly fired at police
A MAN has been charged after shots were allegedly fired at police following a pursuit.
About 2.15am on Saturday morning, officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District attempted to stop a Subaru Impreza on Giinagay Way, Valla.
The Subaru failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated before being terminated shortly after due to safety concerns.
Police continued to patrol the area and re-engaged the pursuit after the Subaru was seen turning onto Jellico Street, Macksville before crashing and becoming bogged.
and businesses rebuild and recover.”
The Mayor also praised the extraordinary efforts of the community in the face of adversity.
“It’s been amazing to see the number of people standing up to help those affected.
q Ministers Janelle Saffin and Kristy McBain assess business impact with Mayor Kinne Ring.
The driver fled and hid under a nearby house with police establishing a perimeter, as a number of shots were allegedly discharged towards officers.
The residence was evacuated, and specialist police resources attended to assist.
Following negotiations, the 30-year-old man was arrested about 9am without incident and taken to Kempsey Police Station.
A crime scene was established and an investigation into the incident commenced.
Following inquiries, the 30-year-old man was charged with five offences.
“We’re seeing emergency services personnel and volunteers locally and from all over Australia here to help - whether it’s help for farmers needing fodder, families cleaning up, or delivering supplies - that spirit of solidarity is what keeps us going,” said Mayor Ring.
Ph: 0439 445 992 walk-ins welcome or phone for appt
‘We’ve got your back’: Minister for Recovery visits Nambucca Valley
By Mick BIRTLES
NSW Minister for Recovery
Janelle Saffin MP visited the Nambucca Valley on Wednesday 28 May as part of her tour of flood-affected communities across the Mid North Coast.
Speaking to News Of The Area, the Minister described the devastation across the region as “confronting", particularly for families, local businesses and dairy farms, some of which have suffered catastrophic losses.
As a Lismore resident, Minister Saffin is no stranger to the impact of major flooding, and expressed that the current damage in affected communities was especially distressing for those involved in the recovery effort or just trying to get their lives back to normal.
Minister Saffin outlined the Government’s response, focusing on rapid deployment of personnel and resources.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been brought in to assist, given their specialist capabilities.
“We’ve got boots on the
ground, people to help where it’s needed most,” she said.
“The ADF is now in the worst affected areas, and the Prime Minister has made it clear that more help will come if requested by the State.”
Disaster Relief Australia is also deploying to provide immediate assistance, alongside local services and volunteer organisations.
For affected residents, the Personal Hardship Allowance is being rolled out this week via Service NSW, offering between $180 and $900 per family.
From the Federal Government, eligible individuals can access up to 13 weeks of wage support, as well as a $1,000 emergency payment, designed as a short-term helping hand rather than compensation.
Minister Saffin highlighted that farmers and small business owners across the region are not only seeking immediate help to rebuild, but are also asking important questions about long-term resilience.
“People are asking how do we stand back up and what can we do to reduce the
impact next time?
“That’s where Regional Disaster Adaptation Plans come in,” Minister Saffin explained.
These new adaptation plans are already showing results in other regions.
In the Northern Rivers, for example, cane field drains were cleared following ExTropical Cyclone Alfred, and maintenance responsibilities were streamlined to reduce bureaucratic delays.
The Minister emphasised that special attention is being paid to elderly and vulnerable residents.
Agencies like the State Emergency Service (SES) are conducting rapid damage assessments, and local outreach from organisations such as St Vincent de Paul, the Red Cross, and Anglicare are helping to identify those in need of support.
“There’s a whole-ofcommunity effort happening here, and it’s vital to ensure no one is left behind,” Minister Saffin said.
In terms of long-term recovery, the Minister acknowledged the need for targeted government grants for small businesses and
primary producers.
These are currently under active consideration.
“We also need to look seriously at how we rebuild bridges, homes, and public infrastructure so they can withstand future floods as events like these are increasing in frequency and severity, whatever your thoughts may be on climate change,” she stated.
Minister Saffin’s message to those feeling overwhelmed was clear and compassionate.
“As the Premier said, we’ve got your back when it comes to flood recovery.
“This isn’t a short journey and recovery can take three to five years, but we are here to help, not just as government officials, but as fellow human beings.”
Drawing from her own experience in flood-ravaged Lismore, the Minister urged people to look after their mental health and reach out to others.
“Talk to someone, don’t carry it alone as there is help out there and we are committed to making sure you’re supported every step of the way.”
q NSW Minister for Recovery
Janelle Saffin MP in Macksville on Wednesday during her tour of flood affected areas.
BUSINESS ADVERTISING
Call today for advert sizes and prices (02) 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS
Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone us : Mon, Tue, Wed or Fri Phone lines open 9am - 2pm (02) 4981 8882
Disaster recovery payments
of JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance, depending on the person's circumstances.
You can also Subscribe, for FREE, and we will email you the Printed Edition Flipbook each week.
OUTLETS
Where to Find your Newspaper Available 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
5,000 copies
DISASTER assistance payments are now available to people whose home or livelihood has been affected by recent flooding.
There are two payment streams:
1. Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment
The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) provides oneoff financial assistance to eligible Australians adversely affected by the NSW East Coast Severe Weather (from 18 May 2025).
The rate of AGDRP is $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child.
Claims for this payment can be lodged with Services Australia for a period up to six months.
AGDRP is available for people who have been seriously injured, have lost their homes or whose homes have been directly damaged, whose major assets have been
directly damaged or are the immediate family members of an Australian citizen or resident who has died as a direct result of the NSW East Coast Severe Weather (from 18 May 2025).
You have until 25 November 2025 to lodge a claim for the AGDRP in the LGAs of Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Maitland, MidCoast Council, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Port Stephens.
2. Disaster Recovery Allowance
The Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) provides income support payments to employees, primary producers and sole traders who can demonstrate they have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the NSW East Coast Severe Weather (from 18 May 2025).
DRA provides fortnightly payments for up to 13 weeks up to the applicable rate
DRA is available to Australian residents who are 16 years and older.
DRA is not available to those already receiving another income support payment or pension such as the Age Pension, JobSeeker Payment or Service Pension.
You have until 25 November 2025 to lodge a claim for DRA in the 19 local government areas of Armidale, Bellingen Shire, Central Coast, Cessnock, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, MidCoast, Muswellbrook, Nambucca Valley, Newcastle, Port-Macquarie-Hastings, Port Stephens, Singleton, Upper Hunter and Walcha.
Find out more about eligibility and claiming processes on the Services Australia website.
You can also contact the Australian Government Information Hotline on 180 22 66 for claims assistance.
CWA branches advocate for change
By Pauline CAIN
NEWS Of The Area joined more than 600 delegates and another 200 observers at the Country Women’s Association’s 103rd State Conference in Wagga Wagga last week.
In a statement to media ahead of the conference, CWA of NSW president Joy Beames said, “The high number of motions delegates will be asked to vote on this year reflects the commitment from our members to their communities and the importance of highlighting issues impacting the lives of those in remote, rural and regional NSW communities.”
The theme for this year’s conference, “From isolation to innovation - the threads that bind”, aptly highlighted how women from all over NSW came together to discuss
and
over 40 motions regarding education, health, the environment, agriculture, transport and telecommunications.
These motions ranged from calling on the state government to prioritise feral pig control, to reopening the regional seniors travel card program, to urgently calling for a review of ambulance services.
“Advocacy has always been at the heart of our association and that has certainly come to the fore this year,” Ms Beames said.
Belinda Williams and Robyn Jones from Nambucca Valley Evening Branch sat down with News Of The Area during the conference for a quick Q&A .
What are the biggest issues in your community?
“The biggest concern in the Nambucca
Valley is the lack of access to GPs, which puts further pressure on A&E at local hospitals,” they said.
“Domestic violence and the lack of housing are also pressing issues.
“Due to the current flood disaster, the most important issue is the recovery of all those affected.
“We will be making ourselves available to support our community in whatever capacity we can.”
How is your branch unique demographically?
“The best things about our branch are inclusiveness, friendship, kindness and a willingness to support activities so we can help those in our community.”
Avoid State Forests post-flooding
FORESTRY Corporation of NSW is advising the public to avoid State Forests following significant flooding which has damaged forest roads and infrastructure.
A full safety assessment of State forests will be undertaken once floodwaters have receded.
In the meantime, State Forests on the Mid North Coast and in the Hunter and Central Coast area remain closed to the public until further notice.
As a public safety precaution, Forestry Corporation’s Senior Manager Country and Community Kathy Lyons urged the public to avoid state forest roads and popular campgrounds.
“Forest roads are unsafe to navigate following flooding events, with damage to bridges and crossings likely to have
occurred along with landslips and fallen trees and we urge the public to stay safe and avoid visiting State forests and using forest roads given the risks to their safety," Ms Lyons said.
"This excludes State forest permit holders who need to check on cattle and bees and residents who need to access forests to travel safely between their homes and towns and this should only be undertaken with caution and not entering floodwaters.
"We are expecting road damage and potential bridge and culvert failures in state forests in the regions.
“Forestry Corporation staff will be monitoring the situation across the Hunter and Mid North Coast in coming days, and we urge regular forest users to check closure notices on our website and stay up to date with road conditions via the Hazards Near Me App,” she said.
q Nambucca Valley Evening Branch members (l-r) Belinda Williams
Robyn Jones. Photo: Pauline Cain.
Veteran organisation deployed to flood clean-up
MORE than 100 Disaster Relief Australia volunteers have deployed to assist communities of the Hunter and Mid North Coast with flood recovery.
The veteran-led volunteer organisation has mobilised its volunteers into communities including Taree, Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Nambucca to begin clean-up efforts after the recent devastating weather event that has hit the region.
Tasked to deploy initially for seven days by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on behalf of the NSW Government, Disaster Relief Australia anticipates its volunteers will be in the area for several weeks.
Volunteers will deploy on sevenday rotations to help residents with multiple tasks including damage assessments, flood debris removal, chainsaw operations, rural fencing and welfare checks.
The organisation will also help coordinate and manage community volunteers who want to help locally.
As a veteran-led not-forprofit, Disaster Relief Australia unites the skills and experience of military veterans with those of other dedicated volunteers to help communities prepare for and recover from disaster.
Disaster Relief Australia Chief Executive Dave Smith said as the transition from disaster response to recovery phase continues to accelerate with each extreme weather event, the organisation remains agile in its support to Government requests to ensure there are boots on the ground to help those in need as soon as practical.
“Disaster Relief Australia is increasingly called upon to step up in the recovery phase of significant disaster events.
“The skills and experience of our veteran volunteers ensures we are well-placed to operate as an efficient and cost-effective alternative to the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
“Our role in the recovery phase allows the ADF to return to its primary focus of defence more quickly.
“We continue to work seamlessly alongside emergency response and the relevant disaster management
agencies to ensure a smooth transition from one phase to the next.”
This is the second time within
Congarinni man to tackle Australia’s toughest desert race
By Mick BIRTLES
AT 61-years-old, most people might be slowing down.
But for Congarinni man Martin Russel, life is still moving full throttle, literally.
This June, Martin will take on Australia’s most gruelling motor endurance event, the Tatts Finke Desert Race.
Held annually on the King’s Birthday long weekend, the Finke is a world renowned off-road, multiterrain race that pushes competitors to their physical and mechanical limits.
Riders navigate the harsh desert landscape from Alice Springs to the remote Aputula (Finke) community and back.
The Finke event is unique in that it enables people of all walks of life to become involved.
Over 600 competitors will race along a 460km course that is open
to all-comers.
Martin is no stranger to motorbikes and has been racing motocross for over 50 years.
“I feel I want to take on the challenge of one of Australia’s greatest endurance races while I still can,” Martin told News Of The Area.
“Preparation has been key, both physically and mentally, so spending lots of time on the bike is very important and making sure the bike is as prepared as it can be gives me confidence that helps my mental focus.”
Martin will take on the Finke riding a fully rebuilt 41-year-old 1983 Honda CR480, originally gifted to him by Chris Elderfield Motorcycles in the UK in 1996.
While this will be Martin’s first Finke, he’s approaching the challenge with equal parts excitement and respect.
“This race will be a new experience, so I’m hoping I can
enjoy the ride and take in the desert environment as much as I can,” he said.
Recent wet weather has impacted his ability to get out and train, but Martin remains optimistic.
He also acknowledges the support of local businesses that have made his participation possible, such as Chris Beslic Excavations, Fortade Group, Mid Coast Trucks, and Mid Coast Moto.
Martin is well known in the community for turning his passion for riding into a force for good, hosting the Snakey Creek Enduro on his Congarinni property to raise funds for local and national causes such as Macksville Palliative Care, Wish for Willow, assisting a little girl to travel to America for a life changing hearing operation, and MND Research Australia.
Any unused support from his Finke campaign will be donated to MND Research Australia.
In
the
q DRA volunteers have been mobilised into communities including Taree, Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Nambucca to begin clean-up efforts.
three months that NEMA has tasked Disaster Relief Australia to assist post-disaster.
March,
organisation
spent several weeks in South East Queensland to support communities with clean up post Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred
q Martin Russel (left) with mechanic Dan Broomhead. Martin is set to take on one of the world’s toughest endurance events, the Tatts Finke Desert Race. Photo: supplied.
Salvos step out
By Andrea FERRARI
THE Salvation Army’s inaugural Red Shield Appeal “Walk For the Hood” in Nambucca was well attended with funds still being calculated.
The Red Shield Appeal is an annual Australia-wide fundraiser running from April through to June each year.
“Sunday 25 May dawned fine and clear, and we were ready to go,” Nambucca River Zone Major Sharon Sandercock-Brown told News Of The Area.
Heading out at 9am from the Nambucca Visitors Centre, around 80 people walked (some ran) around to the V-Wall and back to Bellwood Park.
“We were raising much needed funds for those in our valley who are doing it tough,”
she said.
“With the recent floods, that number will only increase, as people recover and rebuild their lives.”
The local Salvos gave a big shout out to those in the community who donated
With experience
Are you a freelance reporter or someone with
prizes: Macksville Golf Club, Nambucca Plaza Cinema and Salvo Stores.
Congratulations went to the prize winners: Two Wolf Cross Fit team for best community spirit; the Beach Rooms as the highest
fundraiser; Coffs Eye Surgery team for the craziest dress prize; and Body Attack’s Melissa Urquhart was awarded the dancing queen prize.
“It was wonderful to have such great support from the local community and our Salvo church,” said Major Sandercock-Brown.
“Next year we hope to see
Thanks also went out to the local schools who participated and supported the event.
Without experience
THE Nambucca Vally News Of The Area are always looking for more local people to help write about local issues and news affecting our
You may not have any news room experience at all, but you are a competent writer and are passionate about the area and its people. Contact us for more information about writing for the NOTA. We want to talk to you.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
reigns this week with the release of Karate Kid: Legends.
Following the unexpected success of the legacy television (or “streaming”) series Cobra Kai, producers have realised there is a great
deal of possibility in this franchise which first came to screens more than 40 years ago.
The premise remains familiar: a recently uprooted youth, with a passing interest in martial arts, is bullied mercilessly in his new hometown.
Finding support in caring mentors, he trains to face his abusers at a Karate tournament, learning self-
respect along the way.
The major hook for this entry is that it brings back not one but two legends to oversee young Li’s trainingthe original Karate Kid Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Chinese janitor turned sensei Mr Han (Jackie Chan).
A worldwide open casting call was made several years ago, inviting young people to submit audition tapes for the lead role of this film.
Ben Wang rose to the top with a complete commitment
to training and preparation that impressed his older costars.
If you cheered years ago for that very first Crane Kick, you should make time for this.
The new film from Wes Anderson, The Phoenician Scheme, also comes to theatres this week.
When a wealthy business magnate (Benicio Del Toro) appoints his daughter, a cloistered Nun, as heir to his entire estate, they find themselves threatened by
even more people come along and Walk For The Hood.” You can still donate to the Appeal: www.
Anderson’s films are a particular blend of dry wit, highly stylised framing and impressive casts.
This effort boasts turns from Bill Murray, Tom Hanks, Willem Dafoe, Scarlett Johansson, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Riz Ahmed and Michael Cera, just to name a few.
Bring Her Back sees homegrown horror continuing to draw
international attention.
From Danny and Michael Phillipou (creators of Talk to Me), this film exploits our fears for the vulnerable, as a recently orphaned brother and sister are sent to an enthusiastic foster carer who may have dark intentions.
The young actors are in fine form as they portray grief and uncertainty mixed with growing terror, but it's the foster mum Laura (Sally Hawkins) who really impacts the viewer.
q Ashlee Wood, Cheree and Wesley Chapman, with Nambucca Valley Christian School student Piper Wood.
q Local Salvos Major Grant Sandercock-Brown, Daniel and Jody Unterrheiner, with Madelyn Spencer.
q Walk for the Hood participants Maureen Hanson and Judith Herivel.
NOSTALGIA
Beware of disaster scams
By Thomas O’KEEFE
PREDATORY scammer activity is predicted to skyrocket in the wake of the recent rains and flood disasters.
In the aftermath of severe flooding, the State Government is urging people to remain vigilant when donating to recovery efforts.
As communities recover and rebuild, authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the situation through fake fundraising appeals.
“The generosity shown by people across NSW in response to the floods has already been extraordinary, but sadly, we know that scammers are quick to take advantage of these moments,” said Acting Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Paul Scully.
“Before you donate, take a moment to verify the fundraiser at verify.licence.
nsw.gov.au, or donate through givit.org.au.
“A few simple checks can make all the difference in ensuring your support goes to those who truly need it, and we want to make sure that every dollar donated goes to helping people rebuild their lives and not into the hands of fraudsters.”
NSW Fair Trading is reminding the public to take simple precautions to ensure their donations are going to legitimate causes.
This includes checking the charity is registered and has a valid fundraising authority, and being cautious of unsolicited donation requests via phone, email, or social media.
Consumers are encouraged to:
• Check the charity’s registration on the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) website: https://www.
acnc.gov.au/charity/ charities
• Look up the organisation on the NSW Fair Trading Charitable Fundraising Register: https:// verify.licence.nsw.gov. au/home/Charities
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or emails.
• Report suspected scams to Scamwatch or contact NSW Fair Trading: https://www. scamwatch.gov.au.
While a variety of scam types exist, and more are dreamed up every day, many share a similar set of features that can and should be looked for every time we open an unsolicited message.
Many scams include:
• A strong sense of urgency (regarding either a serious problem or a surprise win);
• Use of familiar names or brands;
• Dubious grammar and language manipulation;
• An easy way out of the problem posed.
Some scammers will impersonate a flood victim or charity desperately reaching out for help, soliciting donations in a way that appeals directly to the wellmeaning nature of many people who just want to help
Black mould risks after floods
By Thomas O’KEEFE
AS the flood clean-up begins across the Mid North Coast, residents are urged to be aware of the impacts of mould.
Mould loves moisture and poorly-lit areas that lack decent ventilation, such as
walls or wallpaper, ceilings, bathroom tiles, carpets, insulation material and wood.
NSW Health states that most health problems caused by mould are due to the inhalation of its spores, tiny particles released into the air in its effort to reproduce.
“Spores are carried in
the air and may cause health problems if inhaled by people who are sensitive or allergic to them – irritation of the nose, eyes or skin, wheezing, and, for people with asthma, inhaling mould spores may cause an asthma attack,” a spokesperson for NSW Health said.
“Very rarely, people may develop a severe mould infection, usually in the lungs.
“One such infection is the rare immune disorder known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, in which the lungs become inflamed from breathing in large amounts of specific substances (allergens) frequently over a period of time.”
The best ways to prevent mould growing in the home are to maintain proper ventilation, reduce humidity, and control damp accumulation.
Ventilation is as simple as installing and using exhaust fans in highmoisture environments (kitchen and bathroom), or opening windows for crossventilation.
Humidity and dampness can be reduced by repairing
those in need.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's Little Book of Scams, scammers “use sad stories and cries for help”.
“Scammers will try and use your good nature against you, they will share stories of heartbreak and tragedy with you and explain why they need your help and your money,” the advice states.
“Scammers don’t want you to take your time and think things through, they want to pressure you into acting quickly – this can include making threats that something bad will happen if you don’t act fast.
“Scammers use links or attachments within emails and phone messages to send you to scam websites or install viruses designed to steal your information and money.”
water leaks, limiting use of humidifiers, and clearing out blocked rain gutters.
Deeper issues, such as rising lateral damp, may require professional attention.
Only after the recent heavy rains have some households discovered that their roofs are not as waterproof as once thought,
Mosquito numbers to soar after long rains
By Thomas O’KEEFE
MOSQUITO numbers are set to soar due to the volume of stagnant water lying in communities after recent heavy rains.
Stagnant water provides ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, and with more breeding comes an increased risk of exposure to mosquitoborne viruses such as Ross River virus (RRV) or Barmah Forest virus (BFV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVE), or Kunjin virus.
NSW Health suggests some simple measures can be taken to remove mosquito breeding grounds in private properties and public areas.
“Remove pools of water
around your home, this can involve increasing water movement in drains and creeks by removing debris.”
When cleaning up around the home after rains and floods, it is also recommended to check and empty items and areas that quietly accumulate water, including buckets, pot plants and their bases, plastic containers, boats, trailers, tarpaulins, and birdbaths and feeders.
Insecticides may be required in more serious cases, but homeowners should pay attention to whether or not their products are currently registered by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for use against mosquitoes, as they may kill other unintended
organisms too.
On an individual level, mosquito experts recommend wearing loose-fitting, lightcoloured clothing and covered footwear; covering prams and tents with mosquito netting; and limiting outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
“There are 60 species in this area, but only six to eight of them cause problems,”
University of Sydney’s Associate Professor Cameron Webb, a medical entomology expert for NSW Health, told NOTA.
“Midges are related, they love mangroves and salt marshes, mud flats, but carry no significant viruses (yet).
“Their bites are nasty, but they need to get really close
to bite; some fishermen have used pantyhose to add that layer of protection.”
Dr Webb also warns against ‘miracle mosquito repellent’ products, such as wristbands, patches, stickers, plugins, and even smartphone apps that claim to put out a sound the insects don't like.
“All these items are ineffective, there is no evidence anything is really happening,” he said.
“Wristbands only protect a centimetre either side of the band itself.
“Topical creams and lotions, insect repellents are the way to go.
“Female mozzies need the protein from bloodmeal to lay eggs, and all warmblooded animals share common factors of CO2 and
heat, so they hunt for that, and they are also affected by various factors including
and long-hidden leaks have suddenly become obvious and alarming.
Removal of mould can be attempted with either household detergent, waterdiluted vinegar, or properly diluted bleach in stubborn cases.
NSW Health (1300 066 055) has more detailed information.
body temperature, the smell of your skin, even the colour of clothes - evidence suggests they like darker colours (black and blue).”
q This backyard birdbath, filled by the recent rains, contains dozens of mosquito larvae that can mature within a week.
q Authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the recent natural disaster through fake fundraising appeals. Photo: NSW SES.
q Black mould forming after a hidden roof leak got inside the walls and spread through the wooden substructure.
q This roof leak went unnoticed until the heaviest rains fell, again using wood as transmission to the lowest point.
q Aedes aegypti mosquito ready for a meal, followed by laying eggs in your birdbath. Photo: Dr Cameron Webb.
Bush care at Grassy Head
By Jen HETHERINGTON
A TEAM of dedicated volunteers gathered at the Grassy Head picnic area to tackle local invasive weeds on Sunday, 18 May.
In the hour or two spent together they managed to skirt the Grassy Head car park and Reserve Road, including beyond the corner of Grassy Head Road.
Cassia beans were targeted for removal and cassia trees were felled and poisoned, a few bitou bushes were destroyed, and metres of morning glory vines were rolled up.
Volunteers reduced the size of the fishbone fern clumps and put many coral trees to ‘sleep’ while collecting bags of rubbish.
“A massive thank you everyone,” organisers said.
“What a good job we did.”
It wasn’t all work however.
“There were 18 of us and we managed to devour yummy cakes, scones with cream and jam,
Smoke Alarm Action Day
By Andrea FERRARI
SMOKE Alarm Action Day is 1 June, a day when Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and fire services across Australia, prompt people to check they have a working smoke alarm.
Their campaign slogan is, “Be smart. Take part. Check that you have a smoke alarm and test that it works”.
“The most important button you'll press this month… is the one on your smoke alarm,” FRNSW’s Tim George told News Of The Area.
“Test it today - it only takes
cucumber sandwiches and fruit, washed down with tea and coffee.”
Stuarts Point and District Community Organisation (SPaDCO) Chairperson Mary-Lou Lewis said,
“The place will be better for our efforts today.
“Hope the mozzies weren't too bad.”
seconds.”
Last year, nearly half the homes damaged or destroyed by fire in NSW did not have a working smoke alarm.
The key message in the campaign is that a working smoke alarm is your best early warning sign of a fire, giving you and your loved ones the chance to get out, stay out, and call Triple Zero (000).
“Winter is a critical time for fire prevention due to the spike in home fires, fire-related fatalities and injuries.
“The statistics are concerning for both the community and for our people responding to these incidents”.
There were 1036 residential
fires in NSW last winter, during which 12 people died and 107 others were injured.
“In 44 per cent of those cases, the home either did not have a smoke alarm or, if one was present, it did not operate when the fire broke out.
“We want to ensure all households have a working smoke alarm, and that all members of that household know what to do in the event of a fire in their residence.”
If you don’t have a smoke alarm, or it doesn’t sound, Fire and Rescue NSW can provide one for free as part of its free Safety Visits program.
Bookings can be made through fire.nsw.gov.au/visits.
Fodder drops provide lifeline to flooded farmers
HELICOPTERS have provided isolated farmers with emergency fodder for their stranded livestock, as part of a range of support available to flood-affected farmers across the Mid North Coast, North Coast and Hunter.
As of midday Saturday, 24 May, there had been 43 helicopter aerial drops of fodder, and nearly 131 emergency fodder drops by other means.
There have also been 15 requests for animal assessment and veterinary support.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) teams are working together as the Agricultural and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), to manage the agricultural and animal welfare hotline and its response activities.
The AASFA operation is providing farmers with emergency fodder in cases of immediate animal welfare concern, aerial support for isolated or stranded livestock, and fodder drops to farmers in the areas affected. uy vgolyi8cl. uhyiolujhuhik
Another important element of emergency response and recovery for farmers and communities
impacted by natural disasters is the difficult process of deceased animal disposal.
Through the AASFA emergency hotline, farmers and community members can make requests for carcass disposal and report deceased livestock, either on properties or that have been transported by floodwaters off properties and into community spaces.
The correct management of deceased or unwell livestock after a natural disaster is important to minimise the impact on the environment, distress to owners and the public, and to reduce the risks to human and animal health through the spread of disease.
DPIRD Director Emergency Management Dr Leigh Pilkington said, “I would like to thank all landholders and community members for being proactive in taking steps to prepare for this event and reporting their deceased animals, so our team can make the appropriate disposal arrangements.
“We know it is an incredibly difficult time for landholders, and we have teams ready to assist them where we can.
“I would encourage landholders to reach out to DPIRD for help.
“We have vets from Local Land Services ready to help with animal assessment, treatment and euthanasia on welfare grounds and carcass disposal.”
Impacted farmers can call the AASFA hotline: 1800 814 647 (8am to 6pm, seven days a week).
Assistance available through AASFA includes:
• Animal assessment and veterinary support
• Euthanasia of animals on welfare grounds
• Emergency fodder (where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
• Emergency stock water (where there is an immediate animal welfare concern)
• Livestock feeding and management advice
• Aerial support for isolated or stranded livestock.
q A selection of the invasive plants collected.
q Fodder being air dropped to farmers in need.
q FRNSW Acting Station Officer Tim George urges people to check their smoke alarms.
Cricket club celebrates season
By Jen HETHERINGTON
THE Stuarts Point Eungai Cricket
Club’s Annual Presentation was held at the Stuarts Point Workers Recreation Club on Saturday, 24 May, with players and their families celebrating a successful season.
Named “Best All-Rounder”, Zach Martin was recognised for a stellar season in which he took 26 wickets and 20 catches.
He even took five wickets in one
match, a feat matched this year by Ramanjit Singh.
Life member Wayne Mason, along with club sponsors the Tolson family, were pleased to congratulate many other players and supporters, including Connor Grainge, Xavier Jeffrey, Ben Keighan and Mika Jeffrey.
President Jake Jeffrey told News Of The Area, “We have had a wonderful season, making it to the semi-finals, though we fell short and
lost the match, but we all had fun!
“Can’t wait to get back out there next season and get the junior side going again.”
Though player Semi Bula was absent on the day, he thanked club organisers for a great season.
“I would like to say thank you to the organisers for Stuart Points Cricket Club for the season, I enjoyed playing with all the young players each week and for assisting me in the fielding and batting too.”
Group 2 Rugby League round deferred
By Aiden BURGESS
THE Tooheys New Group 2 Rugby League season had a weekend off due to the recent deluge, with last weekend’s Round 5 games deferred.
The Group 2 Rugby League season continues with Round 6 games this weekend, weather permitting.
The Sawtell Panthers host the Woolgoolga Seahorses in their top of the ladder showdown on Sunday afternoon at Rex Hardaker Oval.
The Coffs Harbour Comets host the Nambucca Roosters at Geoff
King Motors Oval, as the Comets look for their first win of the season, while the Roosters look to remain undefeated.
Macksville Sea Eagles host the South Grafton Rebels on Saturday afternoon.
The Sawtell Panthers lead the way in the reserve grade competition, with the Woolgoolga Seahorses second on the ladder.
The Sawtell Panthers women are also the ladder leaders, with the Woolgoolga Seahorses in second spot on the ladder.
Macksville Sea Eagles Under 18s sit undefeated at the top of the ladder, with the Grafton Ghosts having also won all three of their
Nambucca Bowls Report
By Charlie POTTER
FRIDAY May 23 and the sun came out for the first time in what seemed like weeks. The greens were surprisingly well drained and 54 bowlers played, with Chris D'Elboux, Barry Redman and Peter Fredericks drawing first place. Paul Michel, Paddy Byrne and Grant Lawrence were second and Darrel Jones, Wayne Bennett and Warren Gallop third. The Lucky Losers were Syd Campton, Bob Sutton and Harry Boston. The Welder Coughlan drew Lucky Bowler and nothing else... again.
Sat May 24. Quarter Finals of the Consistency; Mark Blackford 152 def Andrew Shearer 118; Kim Porter 151 def Chris D'Elboux 129; Tony Urquhart 150 def Neil Duffis 110; Terry Steele 152 def Danny Curran 148.
Sun May 25. Consistency Semi Finals; Mark Blackford 151 def Kim Porter 139; Tony Urquhart 155 def Terry Steele 95. The final, Mark v Tony, will be played this Saturday PM. Some great bowls will be on show here. Grab a schooner or coffee and have a look.
Social Bowls attracted 18 and the winners were Chris Davis, Stu Thorne and Elaine Fleming. Lucky Losers Ron Berczelly, Kay and Cosi. The Jackpot was not won.
1st Peter Plunkett-Cole & Rosemary Bateman 61%, 2nd John & Lynne Slade 56%, 3rd Louise & Gary Walton 53% Tuesday 13th May 2025 1st Alison Savage & Colin Denney 61%, 2nd Maureen Cowan & Barb Maranik 60%, 3rd Amber Fox & Carol McKee 58%
Saturday 17th May 2025
North /South
1st Scott Parker & Robert Baker 59%, 2nd Lynne & John Slade 52%, 3rd Equal Maureen Cowan & Barb Maranik, Julianne Cowles & Geoffrey Gardner East/West
1st Amber Fox & Carol McKee 62%, 2nd Vicki Walker & Judy Holiday 58%, 3rd Linda Siford & Michael Finucane 54%
North Coast juniors earn state school selection
By Aiden BURGESS
THREE of the AFL North Coast’s top juniors have earned selection to a State school representative team.
Reese Legend, Chloe Murphy, and Zoe Tarlinton were selected to the NSW Combined High Schools Australian Football Girls team.
They earned state selection after outstanding performances representing the North Coast, at the NSW Combined High Schools Sports Association- Secondary, Australian Football-Girls Championship on the Central Coast.
Chloe Murphy was also named as the Player of the Championship.
The three AFL North Coast juniors were part of the North Coast team that finished third out of nine teams at the carnival.
The North Coast team won three of their five matches, beating Sydney West by 87 points, Riverina by nine points, and Hunter by nine points.
Both their losses came against eventual champions Sydney North.
Reese Legend attends Nambucca Heads High School, Chloe Murphy attends Toormina High School, and Zoe Tarlinton attends Coffs Harbour
High School.
Legend plays for the Nambucca Valley Lions, Murphy plays for the Sawtell/Toormina Saints, and Tarlinton plays for the Coffs Harbour Breakers.
The three were also selected into the QBE Sydney Swans Academy squads for 2025.
q Reese Legend, Chloe Murphy and Zoe Tarlinton.
q Celebrated player Zach Martin flanked by Club President Jake Jeffrey and life member Wayne Mason.
q Mika Jeffrey and Alison Tolson.
q Young cricketers tucked in to the BBQ feast.
Kids Boot Camp 041
HYPOTHETICAL
By Manny WOOD
Disturbing misuse of grandmother’s funds
GLORIA, 101 years old, sold her house and the proceeds of sale were deposited into her granddaughter’s account. It is not clear how this occurred.
Gloria was found to be under a legal incapacity and her “tutor” commenced action in the Supreme Court, seeking an order that the granddaughter “account” for the funds.
The Court observed that despite the granddaughter being in a position to possess the knowledge of what happened to the funds, she was in a “hopelessly inadequate position to persuade the Court as to what the money was spent for, why it was spent and that the expenditure was for the benefit of the plaintiff or lawfully with her authority”.
The defendant was however able to account for the spending of $225,000.
This included the “defendant’s overseas travel expenses [to the Greek Islands], the purchase of an electricity generator which went to the defendant’s house not the plaintiff’s house, a high-speed printer for which the plaintiff could have made no legitimate use, numerous ink cartridges for a printer and expenses in relation to refurbishment of the defendant’s ensuite bathroom”.
A total of over 400 transactions were identified, which also included the purchase of alcohol, the payment of vet bills, the defendant’s credit card and school fees, as well as supermarket, Officeworks and Bunnings purchases.
The plaintiff also tenders evidence in support of the transfer of two large parcels of company shares from Gloria to the defendant.
The Court orders judgment in favour of the plaintiff in the sum of $225,000 and that the transfer of shares be set aside.
Noting that the granddaughter had initially offered the repayment of just $3,000, the Court ordered that she pay interest on the judgment amount and pay the whole of both parties’ legal costs.
No criminal charges were brought.
This case demonstrates the disturbing and flagrant nature of elder abuse and the importance of community vigilance in identifying such wrongdoing.
This fictional column is not legal advice.
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch
Knife-edge recounts could decide parliament's make-up
By Jack GRAMENZ and Ethan JAMES, AAP
IT could take weeks to confirm the members of Australia's next parliament, with one seat sitting on a margin of only eight votes and an incumbent in another requesting a second tally.
Independent MP Zoe Daniel has requested a recount in the Melbourne seat of Goldstein.
The Australian Electoral Commission finalised a margin of 260 in favour of Liberal candidate Tim Wilson on Saturday, but is considering the recount request.
"Unusual fluctuations" and large numbers of votes "moving to and fro" prompted several outstanding questions, Ms Daniel said in a statement.
"I have taken expert advice and asked the AEC to consider whether a full recount is appropriate," she said.
"As always I will respect the process and await the commission's decision."
Mr Wilson, a former assistant minister who lost Goldstein to Ms Daniel in the 2022 election, said he had had a majority for weeks and the votes had been counted multiple times.
"At some point we should respect the professional staff at the (electoral commission)," he said on social media.
"I wish Zoe Daniel, her family and staff well in the next chapter. I hope she finds peace," Mr Wilson said.
The commission said it was considering the recount request.
In NSW, a recount will take place in the northern Sydney electorate of Bradfield, where Liberal candidate Gisele Kapterian is narrowly ahead of independent Nicolette Boele after the distribution of preferences.
The final margin of eight votes is under the 100-vote threshold to trigger an automatic recount, which will begin on Monday.
Ms Boele had been declared the provisional winner before further counting flipped the standings.
The recount is expected to take two weeks.
"There have been three recounts in the last 20 years... they don't happen very often," election analyst Ben Raue told AAP.
The most recent federal recount was in 2016 for the Queensland seat of Herbert, which Labor won by 37 votes.
Mining magnate Clive Palmer won Fairfax by 53 votes in 2013 after his scrutineers' challenged votes.
Melbourne's McEwen was the subject of a dramatic to-and-fro in 2007, going from Labor to the Liberals and back to Labor following a recount and subsequent High Court challenge.
Bradfield could go to a byelection if the recount returned similar numbers to the initial count or be disputed in court if any parties challenged the outcome, Mr Raue said.
In another tight race, Labor is on track to pick up an extra seat in Melbourne's Calwell to add to its increased majority.
The seat has become a four-
DEAR Jasminda,
MY new girlfriend sleeps with her dog (Brutus) in the bed.
I really like her, but I find this behaviour bizarre and, frankly, a relationship breaker. How do I navigate this?
Gerard P.
Dear
Gerard,
The early phase of a relationship is often marked by constant affection, but this should not include waking to Brutus the rottweiler with his tongue in your ear.
It must be easier in the modern world of dating to list some non-negotiables when seeking a new partner.
Perhaps, instead of focusing on desirable attributes like a person's age and their physical characteristics, people should instead be basing their selection on what really matters.
I think first dates should be accompanied by a checklist. It could include things like: Do you pre-rinse your dishes before stacking the dishwasher? What are your feelings about leaving a milk carton with one teaspoon of remaining milk in the fridge? After a shower, do you cover
way contest between Labor, the Liberals, the Greens and an independent as the full preference distribution is carried out.
In the Senate, the electoral commission appeared to be close to "pushing the button" on the count to decide whether maverick Jacqui Lambie would be re-elected, Mr Raue said.
The Tasmanian is in a threeway battle for two Senate seats with veteran Liberal Richard Colbeck and Labor.
One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts is on track to reclaim his Queensland seat.
Mackay shines for Lionesses but Thorn strikes late as Raiders salvage a draw
why the Raiders remain the benchmark.
And for Coffs United, a performance to build belief and momentum, even if the full reward just slipped away at the death.
Lionesses coach Nathan Silvy, reflected on the match.
“Tonight’s game was an outstanding contest between Coffs United Lionesses and Urunga FC,” he said.
“I felt we had the better of the first half, and we went into the break with the score level at 1-1.
“Urunga came out strong in the second half and put us under a lot of pressure, but we showed real grit in defence, getting behind the ball well and working hard to shut down their chances.
“We built up a well-constructed goal to take a 2-1 lead, a testament to the effort and teamwork on display.”
The Lionesses, unrecognisable from the side that was thumped 9-0 by Urunga earlier this season, looked set for a breakthrough win after a spirited performance - their best of the year.
While the draw ends Urunga’s four-match winning streak - a run in which they piled on 38 goals and conceded just once - it also serves as a timely warning that the gap is closing.
“Urunga showed exactly why they’re top of the table by continuing to push, and they managed to equalise in the final minute of the match.
“It was a fantastic game of football, with both teams having dominant spells at different stages.
“Lily Mackay was outstanding up front for us, contributing both an assist and a goal.
“Layla Oliver was rock-solid in defence and played a crucial role in holding back a strong Urunga attack.
“The effort and commitment from the entire squad tonight was outstanding, something we’ve been focusing on and are aiming to bring consistently to every game.”
every available surface with excess water, or do you wipe the shower down with a squeegee and microfibre cloth? Do your political views align more with Joe Exotic or Leonardo DiCaprio? And, of course, does your dog sleep in the laundry, in its own bed, or does it sleep with its paws wrapped around your neck and its dog breath in your face?
Unfortunately, in your case, you have been swept up by romanticism and it's left you vulnerable (and dosed up on antihistamines due to your recently acquired pet allergy).
I think you need to have some honest conversations around this, because a pet is a long-term commitment. It's not a problem that will just skulk away with its tail between its legs. You may also need to accept some brutal honesty in return. Perhaps, in the contest between you and Brutus, you will not end up the victor.
Instead, you will suffer the fate of Julius Caesar, with your girlfriend (and her dog) looking daggers at you, then meeting (undercover) to plot their Shakespearean revenge.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
A win in Calwell would place the government on 94 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives and cement its victory in every electorate held by Labor before the 3 May poll. The Liberals have 28 seats in the lower house and the Nationals have 15. The Greens have been reduced to one lowerhouse seat, with 11 shared between independents and other minor parties.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has recommended parliament open on 22 July.
Your
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
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
GARY BARLOW’S FOOD & WINE: AUSTRALIA
SBS FOOD, 7.30pm
Take That frontman Gary Barlow knows how to make the most of a trip: while visiting our shores last year on tour, he also managed to film this tasty travelogue. Starting tonight in Sydney, Barlow meets musician Tim Minchin for a tipple at Midden by Mark Olive (pictured centre, with Minchin and Barlow) outside the Sydney Opera House. Chef and “fish butcher” Josh Niland puts the singer to the test with his fish charcuterie; before pop star Sophie Ellis Bextor and GB arrive at their Hunter Valley gig in style – with time for a cheeky wine tasting en route, of course.
FRIDAY, May 30
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis visits a prolific native nursery.
8.30 The One That Got Away. (Mal) Ffion clashes bitterly with her sister.
9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson.
9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Final, R)
10.25 Big Boys. (Final, Mls, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.15 Father Brown. (Ma, R)
12.00 Mayfair Witches. (Final, MA15+v, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.20pm
MONDAY 9-1-1
SEVEN, 8.50pm
Known for its life-threatening emergencies, natural disasters and dramatic storylines, this first responder procedural isn’t afraid to push the bounds of believability: malware-driven blackouts, train derailments, tsunamis and cruise ship disasters are all in a day’s work for Los Angeles fire captain Bobby (Peter Krause) and LAPD patrol sergeant Athena (Angela Bassett, pictured). Season eight begins tonight with a truly astonishing situation where a truck holding 22 million killer bees crashes in the heart of the city, unleashing a deadly swarm that joins forces with local stingers to become a “bee-nado”.
TUESDAY WALKING
3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Malta: The Jewel Of The Mediterranean. (R)
9.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Atlantic Crossing. (MA15+s, R)
11.55 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R)
1.45 The Head. (Return, MA15+a)
3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGa) Melissa Doyle and Shane Crawford are joined by Abbey Holmes and Dr Andrew Rochford to navigate pregnancy.
9.30 MOVIE: Tower Heist. (2011, Mls, R)
A building manager and his staff plot to steal a small fortune from the swindler who defrauded them. Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy.
11.45 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal, R)
1.05 Nurses. (Ma, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
DINOSAURS
When you’ve been around for 65 million prehistoric subjects of this beloved BBC series have – you’d think 25 years might not matter so much in the grand scheme of things. But in the quarter-century since this ground-breaking factual show premiered, our understanding of dinosaurs and how they lived has changed radically… and that’s not to mention the leaps and bounds in computer animation. Narrated by British actor Bertie Carvel (Dalgliesh), this Walking with Dinosaurs revival uses cuttingedge visual effects to guide viewers through the stories of six giants once lost to history, but now being unearthed by state-of-the-art science.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 13. St George Illawarra Dragons v Newcastle Knights.
9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.
10.45 MOVIE: Toy Soldiers. (1991, Mvl, R) Commandos seize control of a school. Sean Astin.
1.00 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 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 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Inside The Superbrands. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 Young Sheldon. 11.30 Golden Girls. Noon MOVIE: Wonder Woman 1984. (2020, M) 3.00 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Hot Pursuit. (2015, M) 9.15 MOVIE: Sex
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Soccer. Women’s International Friendly. Australia v Argentina. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 11.55 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrity guests include Jamie Foxx. 12.55 The Project. (R) 1.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 3.00 Home Shopping. (R)
SATURDAY, May 31
6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) A supposed vampire strikes in the village.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (Ma) Cyril faces his toughest challenge yet.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (PG, R) The opening of a sculpture park in Angel’s Rise is marred by murder when art imitates death.
10.05 Bergerac. (Ml, R) The battle intensifies between Bergerac and Arthur. 10.50 Reunion. (Mlv, R) Brennan and Carly head to his school reunion. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.00 MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 11.00 Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Society Influencers (Cliveden And Polesden Lacey)
9.30 1968: A Year Of War, Turmoil And Beyond. (M, R)
10.25 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R)
11.25 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
4.00 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.35 First Cow. (2019, PG) 8.50 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 10.40 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 12.30pm The Invisible Fight. (2023, M, Estonian) 2.40 December Boys. (2007, PG) 4.40 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 6.40 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PG, French) 8.30 Seven. (1995, MA15+) 10.55 Body Heat. (1981, M) 1am The Perfect Dinner. (2022, M, Italian) 3.00 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, June 1
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. The pianists play in the heart of Sydney’s Chinatown.
8.30 Bergerac. (Ml) There’s a breakthrough in the search for Cate’s phone, until Bergerac’s world is shaken.
9.15 Reunion. (Mlv) Christine is closer to the answers she seeks.
10.15 MOVIE: Van Diemen’s Land. (2009, MA15+alv, R) Oscar Redding.
12.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.35 Grantchester. (Mav, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.35
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (PG, R)
8.25 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R)
9.25 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PG, R)
10.15 Hindenburg: The Cover Up. (PGa, R)
11.10 MOVIE: Memory Film: A Filmmaker’s Diary. (2023, Maln)
12.40 24 Hours In Emergency. (PGa, R) 2.30 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R) 3.25 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 3.55 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Authorities come across a box from Malaysia that seems a little unusual and reveals something frightening.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 12. Sydney v Adelaide. From the SCG. 10.30 MOVIE: Safe House. (2012, Mlv, R) A CIA agent and his charge go on the run. Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds. 12.55 Nurses. (Ma, R) Sydney’s bustling nightlife wreaks chaos.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGa, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PGl)
8.30 MOVIE: Spectre. (2015, Mv, R) Daniel Craig. 11.30 MOVIE: Death Wish V. (1994, MA15+lv, R) 1.05 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 1.35 Great Australian Detour. (R)
The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Helping Hands. (PG, R)
8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00
6am Malcolm.
Continued. (1986, PG) 6.35 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 8.35 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 10.35 The Tracker. (2002, M) 12.25pm The Last Castle. (2001, M) 2.50 First Cow. (2019, PG) 5.05 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 6.40 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.30 Constantine. (2005, MA15+) 10.45 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.50am Late Programs.
6am
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: Breakout. (Madlv) Looks at an escape attempt. 10.10 Crime Investigation Australia. (MA15+adv, R)
11.20 Autopsy USA. (Ma) 12.20 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R) 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
See No Evil. (Malv)
stings. 7.00 Soccer. A-League Men. Grand final. Melbourne City v Melbourne Victory. From AAMI Park, Melbourne. 11.00 Elsbeth. (Mdv, R) When a young man is found dead in his car, Elsbeth
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, June 2
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.10 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Dance Life. (Premiere) 9.35 To Be Advised. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo. (PG)
8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures of Bulgaria. (PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Classified. (MA15+v)
11.35 Kin. (Madlsv, R)
2.30 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
3.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Remi gets a huge opportunity.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PG) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
8.50 9-1-1. (Return, Mav) A trailer with millions of bees crashes on the streets of Los Angeles, unleashing a swarm.
10.50 The Agenda Setters.
11.50 To Be Advised.
12.50 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Maln) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Band’s
Visit. Continued. (2007, PG, Arabic) 6.35 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.25 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 10.20 Sublime. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.15pm Just Believe. (2018, M, Italian)
2.10 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PG, French) 4.00 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 5.35 The Farewell. (2019, PG) 7.30 Unruly. (2022, M, Danish) 10.00 Suffragette. (2015, M) Midnight Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Ma)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.30 The Point. (R)
12.30 Dance Rites 2023. (PG, R)
2.05 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
3.45 Living With The Boss. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 The Farewell. (2019, PG) 8.25 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 10.00 Prayers For The Stolen. (2021, M, Spanish) 12.05pm My Zoe. (2019, M) 2.00 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 3.50 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 5.45 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 7.30 The Professor And The Madman. (2019, M) 9.55 Sisi & I. (2023, M, German) 12.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
8.50 Doc. (Ma) Sonya relies on Amy’s help. 9.50 Accused. (Mav) A widow gets mixed up in shady dealings.
10.50 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 11.50 Autopsy USA. (MA15+av, R) 12.50 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
(64) 7MATE (64)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
WEDNESDAY, June 4
SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml)
9.35 The Veil. (Premiere, Malv)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlsv)
12.00 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mlv, R)
12.50 The Wall: The Orchard. (Mals, R)
3.20 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts.
7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.10 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6pm
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Ali And Ava.
Continued. (2021, M) 6.10 The Movie Show. 6.40 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 8.35 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 10.20 Unruly. (2022, M, Danish) 12.50pm Suffragette. (2015, M) 2.50 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 4.55 Discovering Film: Maggie Smith. 5.50 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 7.30 Becoming Jane. (2007, PG) 9.45 Emily. (2022, M) 12.10am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, June 5
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Our Medicine. (Ml)
8.45 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley: Fact And Fiction. (PGa)
9.45 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mav)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Carmen Curlers. (Malsv, R)
1.20 Pagan Peak. (Ma, R)
3.15 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.05 Hitler’s Teen Killers. (Mav, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am RBG. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.40 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 8.20 Becoming Jane. (2007, PG) 10.35 The Professor And The Madman. (2019, M) 1pm Mystic Pizza. (1988, M) 3.00 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 5.30 Darling Companion. (2012, PG) 7.30 The Tender Bar. (2021, M) 9.30 Radioactive. (2019, M) 11.35 To Leslie. (2022, M) 1.50am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Mackenzie searches for answers.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Unbelievable Moments
Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
11.00 Born To Kill? (MA15+av, R)
12.00 Touching Evil. (Premiere, MA15+av)
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. (PG, R) 8.40 The Grand Tour. (Ml) 10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R) 12.15 Find My Country
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Abigail challenges Eden.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Hosted by Graeme Hall.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) The fifth set of semi-finalists sets out to impress the judges and viewers at home.
10.30 Inside Cyprus. (PGav, R)
12.00 Raines. (Mahv)
1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(64) 7MATE (64)
ABC FAMILY (22)
Late heroics
By David WIGLEY
A LAST-MINUTE stunner from Katie Thorn rescued a point for reigning champions Urunga in a pulsating 2-2 draw with a resurgent Coffs United Lionesses on Sunday night at the Coffs Coast Synthetics.
In the last minute of the Women's Premier League match, Thorn danced across the Lionesses’ backline before curling a rocket into the top corner, salvaging a result for the Raiders and crushing hopes of a famous Coffs United upset.
Lily Mackay set the tone early, bursting down the right flank in the 14th minute and delivering a pinpoint cross for Ally Gadd to smash home the opener.
Urunga responded on the cusp of halftime. After waves of pressure, Evie Kealy-Banks poked in the equaliser from close range to level the contest.
But the drama was only just beginning. With the game inching towards a stalemate, Hadiya Aldakhi sliced through the Raiders’ defence with a deft run and slipped the ball through to Mackay, who hit it first time past the keeper — sending the Lionesses’ supporters into raptures. Enter Thorn.
The Urunga playmaker, who has been in scintillating form this season, silenced the crowd with a solo moment of brilliance that underlined CONTINUED Page 11
q Coffs United Lionesses (white) in a pulsating 2-2 draw with Urunga Raiders (purple).
