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Buy a brew, back a farmer
By Sis HIGGINS
A GRASSROOTS
fundraising campaign
to support local dairy farmers devastated by recent floods, was
SLSMNC President Rod McDonagh ESM acknowledged the “incredible commitment and passion shown” by members across the Mid North Coast Branch.
“From the beach to the boardroom, your efforts have kept our communities safe and strengthened the spirit of surf lifesaving,” he said.
“Thank you for the countless volunteer hours, the teamwork, and the pride you bring to the Mid North Coast.
“Here's to continuing that legacy into the next season.”
At the event, SLSMNC Vice-President and Tacking Point SLSC President Mick Lang was inducted as a new Life Member of the Branch.
Mick was described as having “given his entire life to the surf life saving movement”, especially in the surf sports arena as a coach and official.
they recover from the damage to their homes, livestock and livelihoods.”
Partnering with local clubs and the Mid Coast Dairy Advancement Group Inc (MCDAG), the campaign will see 50 cents from every schooner of beer and cup of coffee go directly into a dedicated recovery fund for affected farmers.
“A number of clubs are doing their own fundraising events and will donate all proceeds to our funding program.
and Gloucester, a region that contributes around 25 percent of the state’s milk supply.
“The $25,000 in Category C grant funding is not enough to get these farmers back on their feet and to pay for vets, replacement of fencing, stock, and fodder," Mr Dwyer added.
“With winter now with us, farmers will need ongoing support for four to six months to purchase fodder.”
launched on Monday 30 June by Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer.
“The recent severe flooding has had a devastating impact on our local communities, including the dairy farmers in the Manning and Hastings region,” he said.
Award Winners:
Rookie of the Year: Geoff Craig - Tacking Point SLSC
Masters Athlete of the Year: Maree MackenziePort Macquarie SLSC
Youth Athlete of the Year: Hudson McNeilTacking Point SLSC
Athlete of the Year: Emily Towle - Port Macquarie SLSC
Surf Sports Team of the Year: ‘Nightmare’Wauchope-Bonny Hills
SLSC
Coach of the Year: Adam Smith - Tacking Point SLSC
Official of the Year: Leanne Hatherly - Tacking Point SLSC
Administrator of the Year: Vicki Thomas - South West Rocks SLSC
Most Improved Education Awards: Port Macquarie SLSC
Community Education Program: Silver SaltiesSouth West Rocks SLSC
Innovation of the Year: Cultural Connection - South
“These hardworking families are facing enormous challenges as
“[Let’s] get behind our local farmers to give them a hand to rebuild their lives and livelihood,” urged Mr Dwyer.
The initiative covers dairy farms from the Manning Valley Catchment, including Hannam Vale, through to the Macleay
Funds will be administered by MCDAG and distributed based on need, with 22 farms identified as severely impacted.
Locals can contribute simply by enjoying their usual cuppa or beer at participating venues. Every sip counts.
q Local dairy farmer Tim Bale at the launch with Robert Dwyer MP and Panthers General Manager John Fearnley. Photo: supplied.
q Members from Port Macquarie SLSC - Club of the Year.
CLOSE RANGE
FROM Page 1
Hastings Regional Shooting Complex.
“I’m anxious about the repetitive and increasing noise coming from the rifle range,” Gillian told News Of The Area.
“I hear this [same] noise on the nightly news about the ongoing war, and reports of major city shoot-outs. It is
distressing.”
Home to seven clubs including Port Macquarie Shooting Club, the complex has been in operation since 1975 - a time when Gillian recalls its home on Lady Nelson Drive being “surrounded by farmland and considered out of town”.
John Wyborn, Chairman of the Hastings Regional Shooting Complex,
sympathises with Gillian.
However, he wants her and the community to know that all shooters who are part of any club on the range are active in accordance with strict vetting processes.
“We understand that there are people out there who hate guns of any type, but guns are not the problem; people are the problem,” John told News Of The Area.
“We try very hard to vet any potential shooter to ensure they have the right
mindset for our sport, but it is all based on the feelings we get from the potential member.”
Gillian contacted Council and felt that she was “fobbed off by some environmental person” telling her that the noise is compliant with Council requirements.
Gillian feels that the Council representative was missing the point.
“It is not about noise volume but the type of noise and what it represents," she said.
John acknowledges that any feelings around the sound of gunfire and the potential anxiety it may cause are very valid.
“We [also] understand that the sound of gunfire might trigger people; it's a scary world out here.
“But all of our shooters are responsible people, and we have people from all professions shooting on the complex, from pastors to police officers, lawyers, and everyday mothers and fathers.”
hours from 9am to 5pm for two days of the week.
“All our clubs adhere to the strict start and finish times as they understand that to breach the regulations will put the complex at risk of closure,” John said.
“According to Council regulations, we are allowed to shoot .22 calibre ammunition from any rifle or pistol from 9am, as the noise from this ammunition barely travels more than 50 metres.
“Everything else is not shot until 10am.”
The last shot to ring out across the range is at 5pm, with John advising that “nearly all of our ranges are surrounded by walls to help retain as much noise as possible in our area - but noise does travel.”
There are approximately 2000 shooters across the seven clubs on the complex, and all have nationally qualified range officers to ensure a safe shooting environment is provided.
Hastings Regional Shooting Complex received a complaint in January this year after one of their clubs applied to Council to have the hours of shooting extended by one hour.
The complainant was not told that Council had approved the complex’s request - extending the range
Range officers have to keep their skills and qualifications current to ensure the most up-to-date information and practices are in place.
The range isn’t just home to recreational shooters.
“From Olympic shooting events.. to individual shooters… some of our members are shooting at state and national levels,”
said John.
Inclusivity is something that John is also proud of, sharing that the range is open and safe to both able and disabled shooters as well as being used as a training facility for Police, Corrective Services, and Council Rangers.
Gillian is clear that her concerns come from a place of not wanting to complain, but rather thinking about the damage it may cause to those in the community who have served in the armed forces or who have been diagnosed with a medical condition such as PTSD.
With this concern in mind, Gillian has a suggestion.
“I feel it would be better placed out in the forest… where there is no population, or [there are] people used to gun noises,” she said.
John, however, highlights the importance and legacy of the current complex as it is one of the oldest, if not the oldest range in NSW.
“Our range is very important to us. Our nearest complex is in Kempsey or down in the Taree/Wingham area,” he said.
“We understand that there is a lot of violence and people hurting other people, but I would like to add that most gun-related crimes are not licensed shooters but by criminals without licences.”
q Hastings Valley Hunting Club, located within the shooting complex. Photo: Hastings Valley Hunting Club Inc. website.
Public preschools announced
FOUR brand-new public preschools are set to be operational on the Mid North Coast by early 2027.
Each preschool will be co-located with an existing public primary school.
The four public preschools will be built at Bowraville Central School, Moorland Public School, Tacking Point Public School, and Taree Public School.
Once open, the four sites
will cater for up to 320 local children a week.
Lipman Construction Pty Ltd will deliver the new public preschools at Bowraville Central, Moorland and Tacking Point public schools, with construction set to begin in late 2025.
Contracts for the public preschool at Taree Public School will be awarded later this year.
The NSW Government
says doors will open for all four public preschools by early 2027.
“Access to preschool can be difficult for young families, particularly in regional areas, which is why we are delivering four new public preschools across the towns in the Mid North Coast in areas where they are needed most,” said Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos.
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT
Macquarie-Hastings
Mayor Adam Roberts has joined the renewed push for a priority upgrade of the Oxley Highway road corridor.
It follows the disappointment of local MPs Michael Kemp, Rob Dwyer and Pat Conaghan, at the lack of funding in last week’s State Budget to progress the business case for the Lake Road to Wrights Road upgrade.
Speaking to media on Tuesday, Cr Roberts called on the NSW Government to ease traffic congestion through a State Significant Priority Infrastructure Project.
“This corridor has been operating at functional capacity for years,” he said.
"It’s not just a traffic problem anymore, it’s a liveability issue.
Declaring the corridor a state priority would unlock funding and coordinated planning.
“Our Council is imploring the State Government to stand tall and hear our repeated calls for urgent change.”
With over 20,000 vehicle movements daily and more than 15,000 new homes planned, the Oxley Highway is no longer fit for purpose.
Council projections show peak-hour travel times could blow out by up to 40 minutes
by 2040 without urgent upgrades, threatening the Government’s own regional growth targets.
"It’s time the NSW Government formally recognised the scale and urgency of this issue and worked with us to develop and deliver real solutions."
He acknowledged previous state partnerships including the Maria River Road upgrade and Ocean Drive Duplication - which is due for completion by the end of the year - but said the Oxley Highway remained the Council’s top infrastructure priority.
“Our residents don’t care who owns the road – they just want it fixed.
“I am not here to point fingers – I just want to drive real solutions.”
q Traffic going around in circles at
• Paul Kelly
• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
• Fanny Lumsden
Return air-conditioning coach transport, H2O, 1 x A or B Reserve seat, 1 x night @ ibis Sydney, Thornleigh, 1 x breakfast WITH PORT BUS TO QUDOS BANK ARENA, HOMEBUSH
Day 1: Departing Port Bus around 09:00 we commence our pickups. Our lunch top is at Heatherbrae (choose between Heatherbrae Pies, Hungry Jacks, KFC or Guzman & Gomez own cost). Checking into the ibis around 15:00. Heading to the stadium at 16:45 to allow plenty of time to grab dinner and get seated. Show time is 19:00.
Day 2: After breakfast we will check out and depart by 09:30. Lunch stop @ Heatherbrae before heading home. Drop offs should commence by 15:00.
Paul Kelly is set to undertake his biggest shows in Australia to date, and his only live shows for 2025. Kelly’s new album, titled Fever Longing Still, is his first album of new original material since 2018’s
A RESERVE
B RESERVE
q An artist's impression of a planned public preschool.
Wrights Road roundabout: Photo: Lindsay Moller.
q Oxley MP Michael Kemp and Port Macquarie MP Rob Dwyer, discuss the push to prioritise the highway’s upgrade with Mayor Adam Roberts. Photo: supplied.
Penalties being enforced in speed camera trial
PENALTIES are now being enforced in an average speed camera trial which measures motorists’ speeds along a 15km stretch of the Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes.
From 1 July 2025 both light and heavy vehicles will receive penalties for speeding at two trial sites in regional NSW, the other of which is a 16km stretch of the Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai.
The trial extends the use of average speed cameras to light vehicles for the first time.
According to the state government, data from the trial shows that speeding at
‘We
the trial locations “decreased significantly” during the twomonth warning period.
In the first week of the two-month warning period, one in every 122 drivers of light vehicles was caught speeding on the Pacific Highway cameras and issued with warning letters.
At the end of the seventh week, there was a 48 percent improvement in behaviour on the Pacific Highway with the number of light vehicle drivers detected speeding dropping to one in every 235.
During the warning period, light vehicle drivers were only fined if caught exceeding the
speed limit by more than 30 km/h.
There have been nine fines issued at the Pacific Highway location and three fines issued at the Hume Highway location during the warning period.
“The initial indicators from the warning period are promising, with a significant reduction in speeding at both trial locations,” said Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison
“Overall, we’ve seen a 45 percent decrease in light vehicles speeding over the first seven weeks of the trial.
“It’s good to see driver behaviour improving before we switch to enforcement mode.”
won’t be forgotten’: Rally calls out recovery delays
By Sis HIGGINS
FLOOD-AFFECTED communities of the Mid North Coast came together to rally for Category D disaster funding at Kempsey Racecourse on Sunday 29 June.
Residents, farmers and business owners united in a call for urgent recovery support, including increased flood relief payments for primary producers from $25,000 to the maximum $75,000.
A free community BBQ, provided by flood-hit local butchers, and giveaways from Central Kempsey IGA helped draw a strong crowd.
Carlos Peters of Stone Real Estate said the delays in delivering
Category D funding were putting local livelihoods at risk.
“I speak with small businesses every day who have lost weeks of income, dealing with huge repair bills, and who are struggling to recover,” Mr Peters said.
“The so-called ‘support’ isn’t reaching the people who actually need it.”
Dairy farmer Michael Jeffrey said many farmers had reached breaking point.
“I’ve spoken to farmers who are ready to walk away,” he said.
“The government talks about backing the regions, but right now we feel abandoned."
Category D funding is exceptional circumstances assistance from the government for communities that have been hit hard by natural disasters, like major floods.
The highest level of disaster assistance, Category D funding is generally considered once the impact of the disaster has been assessed and specific recovery gaps are identified.
Category D assistance is requested from the states and requires agreement from the Prime Minister.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp provided NOTA an update on Tuesday, noting that Premier Chris Minns had submitted paperwork for Category D funding to the Federal Government.
“It’s good to hear… but why did it take a community rally, for farmers and business owners begging, for that to happen?” he said.
“We understand these processes take time, but the request should’ve been made weeks ago.
“People need certainty now so they can start to plan and rebuild."
Clocking up 9000 hours of rebuilding lives
By Sis HIGGINS
SAMARITAN’S Purse officially wrapped-up more than 9000 hours of hands-on flood disaster response, on Tuesday 1 July.
After arriving on 24 May, 330 staff and volunteers - both local and interstate - rolled up their sleeves to help flood-ravaged communities
from Taree to Port Macquarie. Their efforts transformed devastation into hope; clearing sludge and debris from homes, stripping out water-damaged interiors, tackling mould, and helping make homes safe and ready for families to return.
In their final days on the ground, the Samaritan’s Purse team joined forces with Pathfinders staff at
Riverside Caravan Park in Port Macquarie, bringing a powerful chapter of community recovery to a close.
“Our volunteer teams have been working [six days a week] since [24 May] and assisted more than 100 families to date with flood cleanup assistance and mental health support,” said Daniel Stephens,
Disaster Relief Manager for Samaritan’s Purse.
“We have worked all over the Mid North Coast.”
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan praised both organisations for their dedication.
“Samaritan's Purse, and organisations like Pathfinders, have gone above and beyond,” he said.
“On behalf of our communities, I would like to thank every volunteer who gave their time and their hands to help in our time of need.”
Samaritan’s Purse brought boots-on-the-ground support to Taree, Wingham, Glenthorne, Croki, Manning Point, Coopernook, Oxley Island, Jones Island and Port Macquarie.
q From 1 July 2025 both light and heavy vehicles will receive penalties for speeding at two trial sites in regional NSW.
q The Mid North Coast community rallies for category D funding at Kempsey. Photo: supplied.
q Ray Vasukinausori, Tarai Kubukawa and Semi Kubunavanua rolled up their sleeves to help rebuild lives and communities. Photo: supplied.
Local legends recognised
By Sis HIGGINS
FIVE Mid North Coast rescuers have been named as finalists in the 2025 NSW Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), honouring their outstanding service and commitment to community safety.
Announced by Minister for
Emergency Services Jihad Dib at a special event at Parliament House, the awards recognise 28 finalists across NSW.
The local finalists are:
- Garry Stephen Whitaker, NSW State Emergency Service, Hastings - Natalie Boyd, NSW Ambulance, Taree
- Georgia Gaddes, Surf Life
Saving NSW, South West Rocks
- Taylah Moffitt, Surf Life Saving NSW, Crescent Head
- Nicole Crowe, Surf Life Saving NSW, North Haven
RESCA is the only communitynominated program that celebrates all emergency services personnel, both paid and voluntary, in one combined awards platform.
Minister Dib praised the bravery and dedication of emergency responders.
“The community has the expectation, quite rightly, that whenever they are in need of an emergency response to fire, flood, accident, water-based incidents or medical emergencies, that the first responders will be there to assist,” he said.
“They put themselves into the forefront of danger or as the first responder to save lives, without fear
or a thought for the risk they face, in many of these situations.”
The awards span seven agencies under the portfolios of Minister Dib and Minister for Health Ryan Park. Winners for each service, two overall state winners, and one youth scholarship recipient, will be revealed at a gala event on Saturday 2 August at Bankstown Sports Club. Overall winners for NSW will go on to represent the state at the National Awards in October at Government House, Yarralumla.
q Deputy Local Commander Garry Whitaker, Port Macquarie. Photos: supplied.
q Deputy Director Member Services Nicole Crowe, Camden Haven.
Is Australia’s next ‘Idol’ a local?
By Rikki WALLER
CHECK the mics and tune up the vocal chords - Australian Idol wants to hear from you Port Macquarie.
The much-loved reality singing TV show has been uncovering some of the country’s most formidable musical geniuses since 2003 and, for the first time ever, Channel 7 wants to hear the incredible talent this region has to offer.
By simply uploading a video or sharing a link via the application page, Port Macquarie artists are automatically in the draw for an audition-day call-up.
It’s a far cry from the laborious audition process for the very first season, which saw Guy Sebastian take the crown at the Sydney Opera
House, leaving Shannon Noll wondering “What about me?”
This reporter was at the first-round auditions from 6am, taking a spot in the snake-like queue that weaved around the old Sydney Convention Centre.
What ensued was a wait that would rival building a new home; hours passing as the line crawled to the first glass door.
Although tiring and the outcome ultimately disappointing, it’s the little pockets of time in between that really made those inperson auditions magical.
There were people from all walks of life singing together as they waited beside the waters of Darling Harbour.
There was a full-body
clash with then co-host James Mathieson as he rushed up the corridor (yes, that was this reporter).
Then there was the laughter that travelled for kilometres, as people shared their horror-turned-hilarious audition fails.
It was a time when the wait was truly worth it.
Now, when everything is instantaneous and the expectation is nothing less, the audition process can be swift.
There are a few entry restrictions, however, which make anyone wishing to reengage in a bit of Aussie Idol nostalgia ineligible to apply.
Entrants must be aged 15-35 years old as of 1 October, 2025, and not have an existing contract with
From snapper to a surprise cobia
By Kate SHELTON
THE Mid North Coast has been a bustling hub for anglers, offering a wide array of fishing opportunities despite recent rough conditions.
The Camden Haven River continues to be a top spot for anglers.
Rock fishing anglers have had mixed success targeting drummer, with Camden Head being a reliable location.
Other nearby headlands are also producing fish.
If you're looking for a more delicate approach, luderick and bream have been biting exceptionally well, particularly at Perpendicular Point and Crowdy.
Remember to use fresh weed and light tackle for the best results.
In Lake Cathie, local anglers have scored some great tailor and school mulloway particularly at night and on the high tide. Offshore, snapper, kingfish and bar cod have been the main targets.
Rowlands is a prime spot, though other deep reefs in the area are likely to yield similar catches.
For kingfish, live bait and knife
jigs have proven highly effective.
Last weekend, Port Macquarie offered diverse fishing for both beach and river anglers.
Before the recent swell, the beaches were a hit with bream and tailor.
Fishing the run-in tide at dawn or dusk with fresh bait significantly improved catch rates.
As the swell calms, expect beach conditions to improve.
Within the river, bream have been the primary species, with anglers finding success at the top of the tide using surface lures, soft plastics, and traditional baits.
For a rewarding challenge, target tailor on light tackle around the mouth of the river on the high tide.
Mulloway have made occasional appearances on the breakwalls, responding to both lures and live bait, though patience is key.
Offshore, snapper action was hit and miss last weekend, with productive fishing on shallow reefs around twenty metres of water using pilchards, soft plastics, and lures any deeper and anglers were finding there to be too much current.
Game fishing enthusiasts have
been thrilled with the presence of striped marlin and tuna.
Abundant bait and bird life suggest high potential for a big catch.
Trolling lures, switch baiting, and skip baiting are effective techniques for these pelagic giants.
The Macleay River continues to impress with consistent catches of luderick, bream, and flathead around the local wharfs and breakwalls.
Beach anglers have also been enjoying success with bream and the occasional good-sized flathead.
Offshore, snapper fishing has been excellent for both lure and bait anglers.
For those venturing further out, kingfish, bar cod, and pearl perch were biting before the recent swell.
Deep dropping has also rewarded anglers with blue-eye cod.
While recent rough conditions have impacted some areas, the outlook is improving.
Anglers are encouraged to check local forecasts and reports before heading out.
any other TV show or record label.
They must be an Australian, a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, or a current permanent resident of Australia.
For anyone who has music in their soul but their nerves stopping it, former Idol auditionee Julia Michelle has some words of advice.
“It was worthwhile just being in the running to audition for Australian Idol," she told News Of The Area. “It was a really fun way to step outside of my comfort zone and give something a go in a way that helped my personal growth."
If you fit the brief and want to give it a red hot go, visit form.fillout.com/t/ tX8tgeK1gEus to apply now.
q The author, back in her Idol audition days. Photo: Rikki Waller.
q Andrew Dyson reeled in this remarkable 19kg cobia off the Camden Haven. He was targeting snapper with squid on 20lb line when this beauty took the bait.
Heartbeat of the Hastings: Planchette/Riley Cone
By Chan ANSELL
RILEY Cone, the creative local behind Mid North Coast drag sensation Planchette, uses art and performance to connect with others, spark conversation and advocate for the queer community.
Starting on a drag journey in 2021, Riley has been working closely with local LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups ever since, helping to create safe, inclusive spaces along the Mid North Coast.
Riley’s drag name, Planchette, comes from a love of the occult – a nod to the heart-shaped pointer used on a ouija board.
“If I had to describe Planchette in three words,” Riley smiled, “she’s gothic, whimsical, and just a little bit delirious.
“I’ve always been drawn to the different, the unusual, the creative.
“Drag gave me a way to
turn all that into something empowering not just for me, but hopefully for others too.”
Behind the big hair, dramatic makeup and bold costumes is a thoughtful, community-minded local who cares deeply about creating space for others to feel safe and seen.
That connection to others is at the heart of everything Riley does, whether working as an apprentice hairdresser, running makeup business Work of Artistry, or performing in local shows.
“Being part of this community means everything to me,” Riley shared.
“Whether it’s helping someone feel confident in their hair colour, or simply showing up as myself, I hope it gives others permission to do the same.”
Riley’s involvement in Stars of Hastings, a local fundraiser supporting Cancer Council NSW, is a perfect example.
“I was honoured to be asked,” Riley said.
“It brings together performance and purpose and it’s a reminder that we all have something to give, even if it’s just showing up and being ourselves.
“It means so much to be included. Not only do I get to support an important cause, but I get to represent the drag community in such a positive and visible way.”
For anyone wanting to explore drag or their identity, Riley’s advice is simple: “Don’t take it too seriously!”
“I mean, look at you, you're in a crazy costume with a wig glued to your head.
“Drag is hard work, but it’s meant to be fun.
“And don’t take what others say to heart.
“If it’s your dream, stick with it. "Your people are out there, and you’ll find them.”
Jubilee Boat a symbol of unity and new beginnings
By Pauline CAIN
THE Jubilee Boat arrived at MacKillop College this week and News Of The Area was invited to join students for a service to celebrate the occasion.
The boat is a symbol of pilgrimage, unity, and new beginnings - journeying across the Lismore Diocese as Catholics prepare for the 2025 Jubilee Year with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”.
Inspired by the Jubilee logo, the boat was made by students at Newman College.
Stephen Roberts, Assistant Principal Pastoral, also had a hand in building it.
Jodie Rich, Acting Assistant Principal Mission, asked students to “reflect on this important moment for the school, the parish and the diocese as Catholics around the world are urged to be
pilgrims of hope.”
“We too are pilgrims and we are called to justice, compassion and hope.”
The Diocesan Jubilee Boat will be cruising around the St
this weekend at St Agnes’ Church, then on to Emmaus Home and Village, St Francis of Assisi and Christ the King Chapels and St Mary
q Riley Cone, otherwise known as Planchette, is this week’s Heartbeat of the Hastings.
Agnes’ Parish. It docks
Star of the Sea Church Lake Cathie, before sailing back to St Agnes Church for a week from 16 July.
q Students welcome the Jubilee Boat to MacKillop College. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q The Jubilee Boat in the Chapel at MacKillop College. Photo: Pauline Cain.
Contract awarded for koala hospital redevelopment
CONSTRUCTION firm A W Edwards has been awarded the contract to undertake the redevelopment of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital.
The project will transform the hospital into a wildlife rehabilitation, research, and education centre, supporting Koala Conservation Australia’s mission to conserve koalas
and their habitats for future generations.
A W Edwards was selected to undertake the redevelopment following a competitive tender process.
“Our business is committed to positively contributing to the local community of Port Macquarie, having been established there for over 25
years,” said Justin Smith, CEO of A W Edwards.
“This project aligns with our commitment to sustainability, biodiversity conservation and care for all forms of life.
“We are proud to build a facility that contributes to koala conservation whilst educating visitors from across the world on our
precious Australian wildlife.”
KCA advises that A W Edwards has committed to a range of sustainability initiatives throughout the project, including salvaging and repurposing timber and metals from the site, and reducing earthworks to protect tree root systems.
Staff will also take part in bush regeneration and
scene, waded knee-deep into the estuary with waterfilled boots to secure the injured animal, which was then transported to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital for urgent care.
community clean-ups in collaboration with KCA, and recycling programs including a return-and-earn bottle scheme will be implemented, with funds donated to KCA.
Paul White, Acting General Manager of KCA, said the redevelopment will provide the infrastructure to “care for more koalas, educate more people, and continue our important research”.
Preparatory work is now underway, with the
koala hospital temporarily relocated to the wild koala breeding centre at Guulabaa - Place of Koala, KCA’s conservation precinct in Cowarra State Forest.
The redevelopment is expected to cost around $10million and has received $5million from the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Program.
The remaining $5million will be funded by KCA through donors, sponsors and supporters.
Dramatic Lake Cathie rescue of flying fox Making a Difference in Wauchope
By Sis HIGGINS
A MORNING dog walk turned into a wildlife emergency on Friday 27 June, when a local spotted a distressed flying fox suspended from a tree near the Lake Cathie foreshore.
It was entangled in a fishing line with a hook lodged through its mouth and nose.
The witness quickly called Wildlife Rescue.
A concerned FAWNA volunteer was dispatched and launched a challenging rescue mission as the tide crept in.
By Pauline CAIN
EACH Monday at the Wauchope Country Club, a team of volunteers prepares and serves a hot meal for those in need.
Make a Difference (M.A.D), a not-for-profit charity based in Port Macquarie, regularly offers a meal and conversation to around 20 people, in association with Oz Harvest and the Country Club.
They consider their guests “friends”.
News Of The Area spoke with the volunteers this week.
“We have been here for
about 18 months and we try to do this with what is donated,” Suzanne Strauh said.
“The recent flooding saw us short of some supplies; it took three weeks for bread to catch up.”
The day’s menu consisted of Sticky Glazed Chicken Drumsticks on a Vegetable Rice Pilaf with an Orange Cake for dessert.
“Suzanne is an amazing trained chef and she generates a menu each week from whatever is available,” team member Helen Bicket said.
Volunteer Judy Crick added, “We are also prepping
With the animal dangling four metres above water and four metres from shore, the rescuer, armed with an extension pole and a knife, cut the fishing line and caught the flying fox as it plunged into the water.
“The animal was quite distressed having been hanging for an extensive time with the hook entering its mouth and exiting through its nose,” said the witness, who asked not to be named.
The FAWNA rescuer, who left work to attend the
Flying foxes are listed as an endangered species, and incidents like this can be devastating to their already declining numbers.
“I was quite distressed to witness this episode and urge fishers to be more responsible with discarded tackle,” said the local.
“All attempts should be made to retrieve fishing line from trees and waterways, especially if hooks are attached.”
Port Macquarie News Of The Area understands the flying fox is responding to treatment, thanks to the swift actions and dedication of the volunteers.
for [a] meal at Marine Rescue in Port Macquarie for about 35-40 people.”
M.A.D. also has a coffee van, from which Julie Brice was serving hot drinks for each of the friends.
The warmth and respect shown by the hosts was reciprocated.
“Haven’t had a bad meal since they started here -
“Names are importantwe know most of the friends by name because they are regulars.”
M.A.D. looks after us,” said a regular.
In 2024, M.A.D. community food services provided 4710 meals for adults and 306 meals for children.
“A meal and a chat can
make such a difference,” said team member Karen Green. Ms Straugh agreed. “Sometimes the only difference we can make in this world is in our own community.”
q The project will transform the koala hospital into a wildlife rehabilitation, research, and education centre. Photo: KCA.
q The distressed flying fox hangs on fishing wire. Photo: supplied.
q Suzanne Strauh, Julie Bruce, Cathie Pilgrim, Karen Green, Helen Bicket, Lyn Ward and Judy Crick. Photo: Pauline Cain. q Julie making coffee. Photo: Pauline Cain.
Budding presenters visit 2WayFM studio
By Bill HARROW
HOME schooled children and their parents have visited community radio station 2WAY
FM 103.9 in Wauchope for a tour of its facilities and studio.
Hosted by Station President Dennis Owen and Treasurer Greg Hayward, the visitors were given a general overview of the operation.
Viewing presenters through the studio window proved
enticing for the inquisitive minds.
On completion of an on-air show, the group went inside to hear about the various components of a broadcasting studio.
This was followed by a visit to the station’s technical room where data and communication server racks are secured.
The discussion then turned to how the signal from Wauchope goes out to the main antennae tower on Mount Cairncross, and
Žaža sings her way to success
By Pauline CAIN
ŽAŽA Semchyshyn, 15, recently competed at the Elevate Eisteddfod in Sydney, winning the Most Outstanding Performance in her age category (1518yrs).
It was for her contemporary vocal performance of Sara Bareilles’ song, “She Used to Be Mine” from the musical “Waitress”.
The eisteddfod focuses on self improvement and growth, offering workshops and industry support to competitors through the Rise Academy.
“I love performing, my passion is music but I also love directing and writing,” Žaža said.
She is in Year 10 and has been a member for three years of the Peak Performing Arts Academy at St Columba Anglican School.
Žaža composes music, plays piano and guitar and is part of the creative team of students scriptwriting and composing the Peak
then across the region.
More questions followed in “the green room”.
“It’s always nice to be able to show aspects of radio broadcasting to possible future young presenters,” Greg told News Of The Area.
One of the visiting parents wrote, “I want to express our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful experience you provided during our visit.”
Discover the region’s creative side
by browsing the interactive map on your computer or phone: select your favourite people and places and start exploring at your own pace.”
Maps can be accessed at www.viviannehazenveld.com.
Visits to studios and venues are free, with gold coin donations welcome.
Almost all are open from 10am to 4pm each day and many have wheelchair access.
The Hastings Arts Trail is supported by Port MacquarieHastings Council (through a Creative Community grant) and is run under the auspices of the Port Macquarie Museum with additional support from Port City Bowling Club and Gowings.
The Art Trail follows on from Friday night’s ArtWalk, held in the Port Macquarie CBD, which brings together local artists and art enthusiasts for a night of exploring, discovering and experiencing art in all its forms.
The theme is “Out Of This World”.
Visit www. portmacquarieinfo.com.au/ whats-on/artwalk for details on all the locations.
Again featuring in ArtWalk are members of WRAP, who will offer a range of musical performances at Fisherman’s Wharf from 5pm.
production for 2025, which will be performed in the Iona Theatre in October.
”I have learned a lot in the three years I’ve been involved in the Peak Academy - confidence, collaboration, taking credit for my own work - and I have grown as a performer,” Žaža said.
“Ms Isabella Mistry (Director of Performing Arts at SCAS) is always connecting us, supporting us.
“[She is] a constant who is a strong voice for us.”
Žaža was recently involved in the Shakespeare Carnival, successfully competing at state level as well as performing as part of the ensemble for the senior SCAS production of “The Crucible”.
“I am busy with school, singing lessons (with local teachers Ian Castle and Sarah Wynne), rehearsals and performing,” she said.
“There is a lot of stress but also lots of reward.”
THE community will be invited into the studios and creative spaces of local artists this weekend, as the Hastings Arts Trail hits the streets from 5-6 July.
Visitors can discover and connect directly with a mix of emerging and established creatives and explore drawing, painting, mixed media, weaving, printmaking, ceramics, photography, sculpture and more.
The Trail runs through Port Macquarie's CBD and industrial areas, inland to Wauchope, down the coastline and beyond.
“While venues range from Wauchope to Camden Haven, many venues are just a short stroll or drive from each other, and most offer very easy access,” said organiser Vivianne Hazenveld.
“Create your own personalised experience
Taking part in the Trail is the Wauchope Regional Arts Project (WRAP), which is designed to assist artists of varying abilities to build confidence, skills and connections with professional artists.
WRAP artists will show their works on Saturday and Sunday 5-6 July from 10am to 4pm at the Rotary Hall on Oxley Lane, Wauchope.
Contributing artists are Nicola Bracken, Kerri Cains, Marita Dahlhausen, Jo Davidson, Justin Davison,
Elsewhere, the Blokes Notes choir will roam the streets as astronauts and aliens, offering songs to passers by.
“It is quite a spectacle to see a bunch of men singing but the ‘Out Of This World’ theme has taken them to the next level,” said choir director Leanne Johnson.
Blokes Notes can be found at 6pm outside Laing and Simmons, on the corner of Clarence and Murray streets, and will be on the move after that.
q Greg Hayward with home schooled children and parents.
q Žaža Semchyshyn. Photo: supplied.
Vana Ford, Michael Googh, Chloe Kirkman, Deborah Murrell, Joshua Oakden, Charlie Tubbs, Kerry Wheeldon and Chris Wood.
q David Brooker will be live painting at the Port City Bowling Club on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
q Blokes Notes choir.
By Andrea FERRARI
TUESDAY 1 July saw the annual Dry July fundraiser kick-off with individuals and teams committing to going alcohol-free for the month to raise funds for people affected by cancer.
The funds provide services for cancer patients, their families and carers, whether it’s a lift to a life-saving appointment, guidance from a specialist nurse, connection to an informative voice, access to therapy programs or a bed close to treatment.
“Having a month off alcohol also has great health benefits, such as sleeping
better, having more energy and, of course, no hangovers,” campaign organisers say.
It has also been the spark to inspire people to adopt sobriety short-term and for life.
For those who find it too much of a challenge, the Dry July team has plenty of suggestions - as the month is also about having a “mindful break”.
“If alcohol isn’t your thing, you can still challenge yourself in another way.
“Giving up chocolate, coffee or fizzy drinks can be just as meaningful (and just as tough)… just let your supporters know what you’re taking on.”
For those put off by the fundraising commitment, organisers suggest a selfdonation.
And where Dry July clashes with a big event, a donation towards a Golden Ticket, can give participants the night off.
Dry July began in 2008 when three men walked into a bar.
The mates, Brett, Kenny and Phil, wanted to take a break from alcohol, so decided to abstain for the month of July, coining it their “Dry July”.
They also wanted to raise money for a cause close to their hearts, so they asked friends and family to sponsor
Roadblocks to decarbonisation of Australia’s freight industry Going dry in July
FREIGHT is critical to Australia’s economy but a University of NSW (UON) expert is warning the industry is falling behind on the road to net zero.
Freight supply chains underpin nearly every sector of the economy, delivering petrol to service stations, food to supermarket shelves and goods to retail centres across the country.
But the freight industry is under growing pressure as it struggles to align with Australia’s sustainability targets - with the sector still heavily reliant on dieselpowered transport.
Transport engineering expert, Dr Elnaz Irannezhad from UNSW’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, warns that without urgent innovation and coordinated policy action, the industry risks becoming a roadblock to Australia’s path to net zero.
“From our ports and rails to our intermodal terminals, where containers are moved between different modes of transport, almost all our freight fleet currently runs on diesel fuel,” she said.
“There is a huge opportunity to decarbonise the freight and logistics sector – and it starts with collaboration between industry, researchers and government.”
Are we headed in the right direction?
Transport accounts for approximately 21 percent of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions.
Heavy freight makes up about 40 percent of transport emissions and represents approximately seven percent of Australia's total emissions.
According to the Federal Government’s Emissions Projections 2024 report, freight emissions are
expected to increase by 16 percent by 2040, due in part to the slow uptake of electric heavy vehicles.
“Compared to Europe, where green fleet adoption is further advanced, Australia’s freight challenge is unique,” said Dr Irannezhad.
“Our population and infrastructure is spread over vast distances, which makes electrification more complex.”
Regulatory inconsistencies between states
Bigger distances require bigger batteries for electric freight vehicles.
Over the years, most state transport authorities have increased the axle mass limits for the next generation of zero emission heavy vehicles to accommodate for the heavier battery load.
While this was a welcomed move from the industry, there are still inconsistencies in limits between states and territories.
In NSW, zero-emission heavy vehicles can have a higher axle weight limit of up to eight tonnes and a tandem drive axle limit of up to 18.5
tonnes, as long as the total gross vehicle mass does not exceed 26 tonnes.
Across the border, Victorian heavy-duty electric trucks can only operate with a 7.5 tonne weight on the steer axle – half a tonne less than NSW.
“There is a lack of harmonisation in load per axle regulations across Australia,” says Dr Irannezhad.
“Electric vehicles that comply in one state can become non-compliant once they cross the border, adding another barrier to adoption.”
E-commerce growth puts pressure on supply chains
In 2024, nearly 10 million households made a purchase online, contributing to a record $A56 billion in domestic e-commerce spending.
Globally, the market was worth over $US6.3 trillion.
With many retailers now offering same or next day delivery, there is further pressure on the freight and logistics supply chain to move goods to consumers even faster.
“During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the closure of shops meant consumers were doing their shopping online –and that behaviour has stuck around,” said Dr Irannezhad.
“Orders that would have once taken days or weeks to be delivered can now arrive on your doorstep the same day or even within a few hours.
“Companies are working around the clock on fulfilling the last mile delivery expectations.”
Last mile delivery – the final leg in the delivery chain from the manufacturer to the customer’s doorstep - is a major contributor to urban congestion.
Dr Irannezhad says there’s been a rise of micro hubs or local fulfillment centres to keep up with demand, especially in larger cities such as New York.
“In Australia, a majority of the fleet making these last mile deliveries are not electric – especially when you move further away from the city centre,” she said.
“If we want to reduce environmental impacts, we must connect these fulfilment
centres with sustainable transport options.”
What needs to happen next?
Dr Irannezhad says the challenge of investing in high-powered charging infrastructure mirrors a familiar dilemma: which comes first - the vehicles or the charging stations?
Without widespread charging infrastructure, freight companies are hesitant to adopt electric trucks. But until more lowemission vehicles are on the road, there’s little demand to build the infrastructure.
“The same can be said about importing low emission trucks to Australia.
Since we’re a smaller market, the technologies available to us are seven years behind the United States and countries in the European Union.”
Similar to the recent New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) which aims to reduce emissions from new passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles, Dr Irannezhad said we also need a fuel-efficiency standard for heavy vehicles.
“Currently, heavy vehicles in Australia must comply with Euro V emissions standards under the Australian Design Rules. While these standards regulate criteria pollutants such as CO, HC, NOx, they fail to address CO2 emissions which is directly linked to fuel efficiency,” she said.
“In stark contrast, the United States, European Union, India and Canada all have mandated heavy vehicle emissions standards for decades.
“For example, the European Union has set emission reduction targets for heavy-duty vehicles (HDV) aiming for a 15 percent cut by 2025, 30 percent by 2030, and 45 percent by 2035, with the ultimate goal of 100 per zero emission HDV sales by 2040.
“If Australia is serious about meeting our emission targets, we need to raise the bar.
“More incentives and subsidies and clear fuelefficiency standard for heavy vehicles are just some of the ways we can help lower our emissions.”
them.
Hoping to raise $3000 to buy a TV for their local
hospital’s waiting room, the campaign was a huge success. The first Dry July ended up raising $250,000 - largely thanks to the support of radio presenter Adam Spencer.
q Cheers to Dry July.
q Transport engineering expert, Dr Elnaz Irannezhad from UNSW’s School of Civil and Environmental Engineering.
q The freight industry is under growing pressure as it struggles to align with Australia’s sustainability targets. Photo: NSW Government.
Grants up for grabs
By Sis HIGGINS
NOT-FOR-PROFITS schools and councils are being encouraged to apply for the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program, which is now open and offering between $50,000 and $300,000 to fund community-focused
projects.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund is an excellent opportunity to secure funding for projects that make a lasting impact across the region.
“Clubgrants invests in the projects that matter to our community and
I’m encouraging local organisations to take advantage of this program which is delivering grants of between $50,000 and $300,000,” Mr Kemp said.
“Projects funded in the past include $87,156 to Bellingen Youth Hub to build new spaces for community engagement, or $20,000 for
the Nambucca Valley Youth Services for the upgrade of their outdoor spaces, which are projects that have benefited our community.”
Tax time scam alert Writers encouraged to find their voice
By Thomas O’KEEFE
THE clock is now ticking to get annual tax returns in before the 31 October deadline.
Sadly, this window provides a veritable hunting ground for scammers, prompting warnings from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), financial institutions, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
The ATO has previously warned of “impersonation
scams”, which are messages pretending to be from either myGov or the ATO that falsely claim a person’s taxable income has been recalculated and they are due to receive compensation.
To claim the amount, they are asked to reply to an email or SMS, with identifying information such as payslips, their tax file number (TFN), driver's licence and Medicare details.
“If someone claiming to be from the ATO contacts you and advises that you have a
debt or are owed a refund or asks for your myGov sign-in credentials, bank or personal details such as your TFN, it is likely they are a scammer,” the ATO warns.
As of last year, the ATO has removed all hyperlinks from its unsolicited messages.
“Don’t click on links, open attachments or download any files from suspicious emails or SMS; we will never send an unsolicited SMS that contains a hyperlink.
“Know your tax affairs – legitimate email
The grants can be used for a wide range of infrastructure projects including upgrades to local halls, new lighting for sports grounds, art installations, youth programs, community transport and projects that support disaster resilience.
“This program is about investing in our community, connecting us and fostering growth in sport, recreation and the arts, while boosting social inclusion and disaster resilience,” Mr Kemp said.
Applications opened on Tuesday 1 July 2025 and close on 21 July 2025.
The grants are funded through profits from registered clubs’ gaming machines and support projects across four key areas: Arts and Culture, Community Infrastructure, Disaster Readiness, and Sport and Recreation.
For details or to apply, visit nsw.gov.au/clubgrantsinfrastructure-sport
communication from us can be located in ATO online services.
“You can check this by logging into your myGov account – you can also contact your tax agent or the ATO.”
While the ATO is on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn, the organisation will never use these social media platforms to discuss personal information or documentation, or ask for payments.
Scammers are criminals who primarily prey upon the unsuspecting, the unobservant, and the vulnerable.
Their modus operandi never change and include:
1. Creating a sense of urgency about a vague yet serious problem that needs attention, as soon as possible (ASAP)
2. Providing a convenient, quick and easy solution in the form of a “just click here” button or hyperlink
3. Going to great lengths to look bona-fide, even copying the logos, layout and colour schemes of real messages.
The major banks and the ATO have made information and advice readily available, so customers and taxpayers can go straight to the source.
At the end of the day, it is up to the individual to make the right call, with the simplest solution being “if in doubt, don’t do it.”
For examples and more information about identifying and reporting scams, go to ato.gov.au/online-services/ scams-cyber-safety-andidentity-protection/scamalerts.
By Pauline CAIN
WENDY Haynes writes picture books and contemporary, historical, and fantasy fiction for young readers.
She is also an inaugural member and current President of Port Writers, which was formed in 2014.
Wendy started writing in 2002 after completing some online courses.
“At 50 I decided I was still not a proper writer and did a Diploma in Creative Writing online via Southern Cross University,” she told News Of The Area.
She is about to launch her latest children’s picture book, “Playing in Puddles”, at the Port Macquarie Hastings Library on Thursday 10 July at 10am.
Members of Port Writers meet every Monday at the library at 3pm to chat and write; on
the second Wednesday of each month at the Rainforest Cafe for coffee and a chat; and on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1pm at the Rotary Community Centre on Hastings River Drive.
“Our members have a diverse range of skills and knowledge which we share, and we encourage each other to trust our practice by writing to improve.
”We also offer a range of workshops, presentations and competitions.”
The group’s Open Competition was launched in June and entries will close on 31 July.
Categories include a short story up to 2500 words and poetry up to 32 lines.
Prizes will be awarded: first $200, second $50 and also $50 for a local writer.
q President of Port Writers Wendy Haynes.
Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Hastings Valley Archery Club, a potential contender for a grant.
THE NSW Government tabled the 2024 State of the Environment Report last week.
Compiled by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), the report is published every three years.
According to EPA CEO Tony Chappel, the 2024 report indicates that climate change is already a major factor impacting many environmental trends.
“In 2021-22, greenhouse gas emissions in NSW were 111 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, which is 27 percent lower than the annual rate back in 2005,” Mr Chappel said.
The report found that sea levels rose by 12cm between 1991 and 2021, and may rise by up to one metre by the end
Food trees for the future Report paints 'catastrophic picture’ of environment
By Kim AMBROSE
of the 21st century. Severe fire weather days and hot days (35°C or more) are also projected to increase.
“Average temperatures across the state have already risen 1.4 °C since 1910 and sea surface temperatures in the Sydney area have increased by about 0.14 0.2°C per decade since the 1950s,” Mr Chappel said.
Native vegetation cover has also declined over the past three years.
“The ability of remaining habitats in NSW to support native plants, animals and ecosystems has dropped to 29 percent of their original capacity since pre-industrialisation,” Mr Chappel said.
Additionally the number of threatened species listings
in NSW has increased by 36 since December 2020.
In 2024, more than 600 plant species and 300 animal species in NSW are threatened and risk extinction.
The report found NSW air quality however meets national standards most of the time.
“In the past three years air quality has been negatively affected during extreme weather events, such as storms and bushfires,” Mr Chappel said.
Most soils in NSW are in a moderate condition, according to the report, although much of the state's agricultural land is becoming slightly more acidic, with soil pH changing by at least 0.15 from 2006-20.
Good rainfall in the
past three years has helped improve water quality in some areas, but may also have been associated with significant fish kill events during that time.
Coastal vegetation and habitats such as saltmarsh, mangroves and seagrass continue to be threatened by development and climate change, Mr Chappel said.
Invasive species continue to exert pressure on native plants and animals.
“New threats, such as fire ants, will continue to pose a significant biodiversity risk if not eradicated,” he said.
Greens MP and spokesperson for the environment and climate change Sue Higginson, said the report paints a “catastrophic picture”.
“The biodiversity crisis has continued unabated in NSW, despite Premier Chris Minns promising to halt extinction in NSW, with 36 new species added to the threatened species list since 2020 and a shocking five percent increase in the number of animal species threatened with extinction.
“With average temperatures in NSW already 1.4 degrees celsius above earliest records, we can assume with confidence that this means our state is already living beyond the 1.5 degrees that was legislated as a target less than two years ago.
“The revelations that sea levels have risen by 12 centimetres in 30 years pales compared to the existential
stakes and tree guards; and paddlers from Camden Haven Dragon Boat Club (CHDC), who completed the planting.
The morning was spent digging holes, laying weed mats, planting, and providing each new tree with a protective wind guard along the shoreline.
Jason Stone from Stoney Aqua Park was so impressed with the finished result that he immediately ordered another 100 trees, resulting in a total of 300 new koala food trees planted.
“The future benefits of the project are numerous,” said Koala Conservation Australia representative Anne Ditton.
“Stoney Aqua Park benefits from an overall improvement to their ecosystem.
Winter Book Sale returns
By Luke HADFIELD
THE Rotary Club of Laurieton is set to once again transform the Laurieton United Services Club into a book lover’s paradise as it hosts its Winter Book Sale from Saturday 5 July to Sunday 13 July.
Running daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm, with an earlier finish of 3:00pm on the final day, the much-loved sale will offer thousands of pre-loved treasures at bargain prices.
Entry is free and the event promises to be a family friendly outing with something for everyone.
Held twice a year, the book sale is the Rotary Club’s primary fundraising initiative.
Since it began in 2003, the event has raised over $200,000, all of which has been given back to support local community groups and Rotary projects.
“Our Rotary members are
excited to offer nearly 10,000 items including books, games, puzzles, records, DVDs and toys,” said sale coordinator Caroline Hall.
“Most adult books are $3.00 and children’s books are 50 cents each.” Thanks to the generosity of the local community, the sale includes a wide variety of
fiction and non-fiction titles, children’s books suitable for preschoolers through to tweens, as well as DVDs, records, puzzles and games.
Stock is updated daily, making it worth more than one visit.
Club President Graham Blackett highlighted the impact of the sale’s proceeds.
“The Rotary club has used the proceeds of the sales to provide help in times of drought, flood and fires and also supports our schools, senior groups, the homeless and the surf lifesaving organisation.
The club has supported the End Polio campaign as well as disaster relief in the South Pacific.
“None of these things would have been possible without the support of the Camden Haven community for the book sale,” he said.
The book sale has been the cornerstone of the club’s fundraising for many years, started by past president Gordon Gray more than 20 years ago.
The Rotary Club of Laurieton also expressed their gratitude to Pycon Homes for a Pycon Community Grant, which has helped cover some of the costs of staging the event.
threat posed by the likely additional one metre sea level rise predicted by the report between now and the end of the century.”
Ms Higginson said regional NSW and agricultural districts are in “serious decline” on almost all measures, noting “significant losses to woody and non-woody native vegetation, increasing rates of soil acidification, and plummeting levels of organic carbon in our soil”.
“Of the 70 key indicators covered in this report, just seven of them show any improvement.
“The number of indicators that are going backwards is more than three times higher with close to double remaining unknown.”
“North Coast dragon boat clubs, such as Camden Haven - who hold their annual Regatta at this venue in conjunction with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council (PMHC) and Laurieton United Services Club (LUSC) - will benefit from much-needed shade.
“And Koala Conservation Australia benefits from having more koala food trees planted in the area and a heightened community awareness of their importance.”
A TEAM of Camden Haven Dragon Boaters descended on Stoney Aqua Park at
Telegraph Point on Monday 16 June, armed with 200 koala food trees. It was part of a fourway collaboration between
Stoney Aqua Park (SAP); NSW Forestry, who provided the trees; Koala Conservation Australia (KCA), who supplied the weedmats,
q Jason Stone from Stoney Aqua Park, Anni Yaringa of Camden Haven Dragon Boat Club and Anne Ditton from Koala Conservation Australia. Photo: supplied.
q Tree-planting dragon boaters. Photo: supplied.
q Rotarians Phil Town, Caroline and Brett Hall in front of some of the many books that will be on offer.
Double-header at Rainbow Beach
By Kim AMBROSE
SUPPORTERS of Lake Cathie
Football Club were treated to a double-header on Saturday, 28 June with both their Men’s Zone League 1 and Women’s Northern League A Grade sides playing home games at Rainbow Beach Sporting Fields.
In the men’s clash, Lake Cathie faced off against crosstown rivals the Camden Haven Redbacks, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw, while the women confidently dispatched of Wauchope 4-0.
Both the Redbacks and Lake Cathie started strong in the men’s game, in a match marked by several intense contests.
Despite the best efforts of both sides, neither was able to find the back of the net in the first half.
Late in the second stanza the stalemate was eventually broken after Lake Cathie striker Diezel Frost was rewarded with a
well-deserved goal with 15 minutes to play.
As the game entered its final stages, the Redbacks were awarded a penalty kick,
which they converted to level the score.
Lake Cathie captain James "Zipper" O'Connor said his side “played pretty
decently for most of the game but we just couldn’t seem to score”.
“The first grade competition is pretty even,
Blues dominate on annual Andy Howe Memorial Day
By Kim AMBROSE
THE Kendall Blues claimed victory on the club’s annual Andy Howe Memorial Day, with a resounding 32-6 win against crosstown rivals the Laurieton Hotel Stingrays on Saturday 28 June.
Known as “Howie’s Day”, this event is held in memory of former Blues player Andrew Howe and holds a special place in the heart of the Kendall community.
Sunday 29 June would have been Andrew’s 36th birthday.
The match itself was a physical and intense battle, with both teams putting up a fierce fight.
Locked in a scoreless deadlock for the majority of the first half it was the Stingrays who managed to put the first points on the board with a successful penalty kick from the boot of Cuban Piper.
with first to fourth place sitting on the same points," said O’Connor.
“So for the team to be sitting in the top four we are
going really well, especially considering we only went into reserve grade last year for the first time and then first grade this year.”
Gardener, narrowing the gap to 14-6.
years now since Andrew passed away,” said Alan.
However, this lead was only temporary with the Blues hitting back with two quick tries.
First across the line for Kendall was Sam Ylias, closely followed by Daniel Weightman, providing the Blues with an 8-2 lead as the teams went into the sheds.
Following the break Ylias continued to impress, scoring his second try of the match.
This was followed by a successful Jack Chapman conversion, extending Kendall's lead to 14-2.
The Stingrays responded with a well deserved try from Tyler
However, momentum soon swung back to the Blues.
Jack Chapman found the line twice, successfully converting both of his tries and providing the Blues with a 20 point buffer.
Luke Martin was last to add to the Blues’ try tally and after another successful conversion Kendall came away winners 32-6 on the full time buzzer.
Watching from the sidelines was Andrew’s father, Alan Howe, who reflected on his son's love for the game and the enduring support from the club and community.
“It has been just over six
“He loved his sport and his football and played on the wing here for the Kendall Blues.
“The Club has honoured Andrew with a memorial day and this has helped to support us as a family.
“There is always a rivalry between Laurieton and Kendall.
“It doesn’t matter whether it's football or cricket it is just there, it's like watching a State of Origin match."
The event concluded with the presentation of the Andy Howe Medal, with Sam Ylias being named as 2025 recipient.
q Diezel Frost scoring Lake Cathie’s only goal of the match.
Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
q Harley Hine taking on his opponent during the Zone League 1 clash between Lake Cathie and the Camden Haven Redbacks.
Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
q Kendall’s Ben Webber trying to break through the Stingrays defence. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
q Stingrays captain Cuban Piper with an offload. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
AFL North Coast season resumes
Chase-ing Dreams
By Rikki WALLER
STILL riding the high from his Junior and Open Men’s wins at the NSW Bodyboard State Titles in May, 16-year-
But first, he
continue the
momentum against the best of the best at this weekend’s City of Gold
Coast Future Pro’s event on the Gold Coast.
Presented by Inverted Bodyboarding and Dan Leyshon, Future Pro’s is one of Australia’s premier junior bodyboarding events.
This year, the Juniors Division has been officially recognised as part of the Rising Series on the IBC Junior World Tour.
Competitors will earn 500 points toward the IBC Junior Ranking, and a prize purse of US$2,500 is up for grabs.
It’s a major step forward for Australian junior riders on the international scene.
While Chase is a bodyboarding hero at local and state breaks, competition is not going to be easy.
Gold Coast Bodyboarding President Silas Gancier said, “We have riders from the Sunshine Coast, Cooper and Jai. Cooper won the event in the past and Jai was Juniors Top 6 in the IBC World Tour.
“A Japanese Kaito Sato winner from 2023 is another
AFL North Coast junior ladder leaders
By Aiden BURGESS
AFL North Coast’s top junior teams have shown their premiership credentials as they head into their school holiday break, with just four rounds to go before this season’s finals series.
Bellingen Bulldogs remain undefeated so far as they sit at the top of the Youth Girls 17s competition.
Port Macquarie Magpies Under 16s Boys also remain undefeated in the run home
towards finals.
Sawtell/Toormina Saints Youth Girls 15s sit undefeated at the top of their competition’s ladder.
Port Macquarie Flyers lead the way in the Under 14s Mixed with just one loss so far.
Port Macquarie Magpies are the ladder leaders in the Youth Girls 13s competition.
Port Macquarie Magpies have been the standout side so far in the Under 12s Mixed remaining undefeated.
The Sawtell/Toormina Saints (Youth Girls 17s), Sawtell/Toormina Saints (Under 16s Boys), Nambucca Valley Lions (Youth Girls 15s), Port Macquarie Swoopers (Under 14s Mixed), Northern Beaches Blues (Youth Girls 13s), and the Northern Beaches Blues - White (Under 12s Mixed) are all currently second in their respective competitions.
AFL North Coast’s junior semi-finals will be held on Sunday, 24 August, with the grand finals to be decided on Sunday, 31 August.
By Aiden BURGESS
AFTER a weekend off for representative games, the AFL North Coast season resumes this weekend with Round 9 matches.
Ladder leaders the Coffs Harbour Breakers host the Macleay Valley Eagles at Fitzroy Oval, in their first meeting of the season.
The Sawtell/Toormina Saints travel to take on the Grafton Tigers, in what is also the first meeting of the season between the two sides.
The two clubs last met in last year’s Elimination Final, which the Saints won by 90 points.
Coffs Harbour Breakers reserves host the Nambucca Valley Lions at Fitzroy Oval.
Of The Area.
strong contender.
“We also have riders coming from South Australia, Newcastle, Portugal, Qld and NSW.”
Chase attended the Future Pro’s event in 2023 at Tugun and although he didn’t place, he is being positioned as one to watch following a tonne of hard work and an epic few years in the water.
In 2023, Chase was crowned the Port Macquarie Bodyboarding Association’s (PMBA) Bodyboarder of the Year, and in 2024 he was the Triple Crown Memorial Junior Winner.
The Triple Crown is a significant series in Australian bodyboarding.
It is worked out on a points system based on wins and places at the Jeff Wilcox event in Forster, the Barron Viner event in North Central Coast, and the local Goose Gosby event.
“I'm proud of my accomplishments so far, especially winning the NSW State Titles for the Open Men's and U18 Junior Men's divisions”, Chase told News
“I love the ocean and being outdoors spending time in the sunshine and fresh air.
“I love the feeling of being barrelled, riding the waves.”
Port Macquarie was officially recognised as the bodyboarding capital of Australia in November 2010.
It was in honour of local legend John 'Eppo' Eppelstun, and a tribute to all past, present and future bodyboarders.
However, Port Macquarie is not where Chase’s journey began.
“We moved from Lord Howe Island to Port Macquarie in 2016 to further educate the children on the mainland,” Chase’s mum Julia said.
“Like most coastal Aussie families, we always had bodyboards.
“From about the age of two, he would ‘surf’ in the island's lagoon, then later on the bigger waves at the other beaches like Blinky Beach or Ned's Beach.”
Despite his incredible
Northern Beaches Blues and Port Macquarie Magpies reserves, women's, and Under 18s sides play off in Port Macquarie.
Northern Beaches Blues sit undefeated at the top of the reserves ladder, likewise the Port Macquarie Magpies in the Under 18s. Coffs Harbour Breakers lead the way in the women’s competition.
skill, it was only three years ago that Chase and some schoolmates decided to join PMBA to try their luck in some local competitions.
“Chase just felt like it was his thing, that it was something he was good at,” Julia said.
“And the PMBA had three-time World Champion Damian King, and pro riders like Chase O'Leary, Charlie Holt, Shayden Shader and Jones Russell.
“Not only could he begin to compete against them, but [also] be mentored and supported by them.”
Described by his Mum as “the most energetic and hilariously fun child who has an enormous sense of adventure,” Chase has his eyes on what he considers the ultimate prize.
“One day I want to have the best style ever and win the 2025 Nationals in one or both divisions,” he said.
The Future Pro’s competition will be running on 5 and 6 July at Tugun or Duranbah beach, pending the swell forecast.
q The AFL North Coast season resumes this weekend.
Photo: AFL North Coast.
old Chase Thompson has the Australian titles on his mind.
must
positive
q Chase at URBNSURF Sydney, earlier this year. Photo: supplied.
q Chase has his sights set on this weekend’s Future Pro’s event. Photo: supplied.
IF you’ve been dreaming of a home where you can stretch out, slow down, and reconnect with nature, this Lorne Valley retreat might just be your next chapter.
Set across 3.79 hectares (approx. 9.36 acres), this property isn’t just about land, it’s about lifestyle.
Picture peaceful mornings with mist lifting over the valley, long afternoons by the saltwater pool, and evenings spent watching the sun dip behind the mountains.
From the moment you arrive, there’s a sense of calm that only country living can bring.
The home itself is warm and welcoming, with a generous floor plan that offers space for the whole family.
The master suite is exceptionally largemeasuring 7m x 4.5m - and the living spaces are designed
to bring the outdoors in. A combustion fireplace keeps things cosy in winter, while reverse-cycle air conditioning ensures year-round comfort.
Wide verandahs overlook beautifully established lawns and gardens, creating the perfect setting for family barbecues or simply unwinding with a cuppa and a view.
Whether you’re entertaining or enjoying quiet moments, the home has been designed with lifestyle in mind.
For those who love to keep their hands busy, there’s a veggie patch, a chicken coop, and plenty of room to run a few head of cattle or keep a horse or two.
The land is partially arable, with two paddocks and three dams, making it ideal for hobby farming or rural pursuits.
A four-bay shed with
two enclosed bays provides excellent storage and includes separate guest accommodation - perfect for visitors or extended family.
This is the kind of place that locals often dream about - somewhere close enough to town when you need it, but far enough away to feel the world slow down a little.
It’s peaceful, it’s private, and it’s packed with potential.
Whether you’re upsizing for a growing family, downsizing from a larger holding, chasing a selfsufficient lifestyle, or finally making the move to the country you’ve always talked about, this property offers the space, views, and versatility to make it happen.
For more details or to arrange a viewing, contact Martin Newell, Rural & Lifestyle Specialist at Percival Property, on 0429 883 488
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By Aiden BURGESS
AFL North Coast’s best juniors will devote some of their school holidays to representing their region.
North Coast Force’s Under 17s , Under 15s, and Under 13s Boys teams, and the Youth Girls 17s, Youth Girls 15s, and Youth Girls 13s teams will take part in this year’s Northern NSW Championships in Coffs Harbour.
This year’s Northern NSW Championships are being held from Tuesday, 8 July to Thursday, 10 July at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, and the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
The annual event sees the North Coast Force teams
taking on teams from the Central Coast, Hunter Metro, Hunter Country, North West, and Illawarra.
Illawarra won the Simon Smyth Cup at last year's Northern NSW Championships, by virtue of having the most wins at the carnival.
The Under 15 Boys were the best performing of the North Coast Force teams at last year's Championships, winning five of their six games.
Players were selected to the North Coast Force teams after trialling in March.
Some North Coast Force players also take part in the Northern Heat Development AFL program, which comprises the best male and
Kicking goals Force juniors to play in Northern NSW Championships
By Kim AMBROSE
FRESH from a resounding 4-0 victory over Wauchope on Saturday, Lake Cathie’s Women’s Northern League
A Grade side is looking ahead to upcoming Regional Super League and State Cup fixtures.
After a slow start in Saturday's match, Lake
female players from both the North Coast and North West regions in the Under 17 age group.
Cathie soon found their rhythm, with Chelsea Hall breaking the deadlock to send her side into the sheds at half-time with a 1-0 lead.
Three second half goalsone from Tash Ruge, a second from Chelsea Hall, and a first A Grade goal for Hayley Crowle - sealed the victory.
This off-season program exists to extend the representative pathway for the players of the regions and provide them with a further avenue to build their game ahead of transitioning towards senior footy.
Lake Cathie captain Olivia Mara praised her teammates, highlighting their improvement in recent weeks.
“We had a bit of a slow start getting into the game but eventually we made some really good forward runs, especially Soph, our
right back,” said Olivia.
“In the second half we started to work a lot better as a team and we lifted, playing some good football and scoring three more goals.
“Everyone should be very proud of themselves and how they played. This was definitely one of our better
Gold Coast opposition.
games.”
Now at the halfway point of their regular season, the team now has eyes on the finals series in September, the ongoing Regional Super League campaign, and the Women’s State Cup in Speers Point.
“Next week we have a match against Urunga in the Super League comp and on the following weekend we have the State Cup,” said Olivia.
“The team is getting really keen for the cup as we usually perform really well there.
“In previous years we have beaten the teams in our pools so we had to go to the State Cup Final instead of the Community Club Final and hopefully we can do that again this year.”
The three-day State Cup brings together the top premier and community teams from the Northern NSW Football catchment from 11-13 July, all vying for the chance to be crowned state champions.
Netballers score smiles across the Pacific
Dressed excitedly in their new blue and teal netball dresses, their messages and photos expressed how
grateful they were for the donated kits.
It was a perfect example of how a circular economy and a calling to help others can assist a community an ocean away.
“When we updated our uniform, we had quite a few old uniforms in stock that we couldn't use,” Port Combined Netball Club Publicity Officer Linda Dewbery said.
“I took the dresses to Fiji with me on my holiday a few months ago”.
This isn’t the first time the club has supported young people in Fiji.
“A few years ago, we received new kit bags, so we filled our old [ones] with joggers, netballs, socks, and a pump, and sent them to a village.”
This year, with the excess
dresses not in use and feeling the positive impact their previous donation had, it was the perfect opportunity to bag them up and jump on a plane to support another community in need.
“The village I visited had recently received some generous donations, so it was agreed that an elder from Votua Lalai Village would take these to another village four hours inland, donating to Navuakece District School.”
Located in Naitasiri, one of 14 provinces of Fiji, the school has benefited from various initiatives aimed at improving its facilities and educational programs.
In January, they opened a brand-new classroom block.
The new learning space was only possible
thanks to the much-needed funding provided by the Fiji Government along with the Government of Japan as part of their Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program.
The school has also been involved in sports and environmental awareness programs, making the delivery of the netball kits to Navuakece District School a fitting choice.
“Receiving photos of their village, and students in the dresses, is very humbling,” said Linda.
“It's important, as a club, to encourage our members to show humility and gratitude by encouraging them to support activities like this where they can.”
The program finishes with practice matches against
q Last year's North Coast Force Under 15s Boys team.
By Rikki WALLER
SHY faces stared into camera lenses when students from
Navuakece District School in Fiji created postcards from paradise for Port Combined Netball Club.
q Freya Briggs contests a challenge. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
q Students from Navuakece District School in their new netball kits. Photo: supplied.
q Hayley Crowle, who secured her first A Grade goal for the season. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
North Coast Force win Challenge Shield
By Aiden BURGESS
NORTH Coast Force have won their first representative game in seven years in emphatic style.
AFL North Coast’s best
men’s players beat the North West Blue Heelers by 66 points in Gunnedah.
The North Coast Force had a convincing win against the Blue Heelers in their first representative game since 2018.
Bowling Brilliance
of rounds at both Lake Cathie and North Haven.
tournament involved all 16 clubs competing in a series
From here the top four teams from each pool progressed to the Quarter
The North Coast Force men regained the Challenge Shield for the first time since 2016, after the Blue Heelers had won their previous two encounters in 2017 and
Finals, which were contested on Saturday.
On Sunday morning the Semi-Finals unfolded, ultimately leading to Port City and Manilla securing their spots in the final showdown.
After several closely contested rounds Port City eventually emerged victorious, defeating Manilla to claim the title.
Mick Hayes, captain of the Port City team, said Club North Haven and Club Lake Cathie “ran a great professional tournament”.
The win was the end of a long wait for silverware for Port City.
“Twenty-five years ago our club won a Grade 2 state flag, however this is the first Grade 7 win in the club’s history of 80 years.
“Adding to the win, Sandy Harris, our all-ability bowler,
The North Coast vs North West representative game had been played 13 times previously between 1998 and 2018.
North Coast Force women
split their two matches, in their tri-series against AFL North West and AFL Central West teams.
The Force won by 24 points in their opening match against the North West Blue
Heelers, then went down by 11 points to the Central West Eagles.
Central West Eagles won the Regional Australia Bank Cup by virtue of winning both their games.
was named Player of the Event.”
Aside from the competitive aspect of the tournament, Mr
Harris said the event provides tangible benefits for the region. “The event
provides a great economic boost for the Camden Haven area, with players and their supporters
staying
Port Pirates go top of the ladder
By Aiden BURGESS
PORT Macquarie Pirates have gone to the top of the ladder after a dramatic 3230 win against the Coffs Harbour Snappers, in their top of the ladder clash at Coffs Rugby Park.
A late penalty goal saw the Pirates take the lead and ultimately victory after the bell.
SCU Marlins consolidated fourth spot on the ladder with a 41-21 win at home against the Hastings Valley Vikings.
Grafton Redmen maintained third spot on the ladder with a 32-7
win against the Kempsey Cannonballs in Kempsey.
The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season continues this weekend with Round 11 games.
Coffs Harbour Snappers and the SCU Marlins face off in their second local derby of the season, on Saturday afternoon at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
The Snappers had a 36-8 win when they last met in the opening round.
Grafton Redmen will host the Port Macquarie Pirates, with the Redmen having a 33-31 win when
they last met in Round 1. Kempsey Cannonballs host the Hastings Valley Vikings, with the Vikings 57-20 victors when they last played.
q North Coast Force men’s players celebrate their victory. Photo: AFL North Coast.
q The North Coast Force women’s team. Photo: AFL North Coast.
q John Breen, Mick Reid and Tony Newell. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
in motels, paying for petrol, buying dinner
visiting local shops,” he said.
q Ken Griffin. Photo: Kim Ambrose/ SaltyFoxFotography.
q Graham Muffett. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.
Who is the better economic manager?
DEAR News Of The Area,
I acknowledge Pat Congahan MP for his statement in last week’s edition (Port Macquarie NOTA, 27 June).
He clearly knows how vulnerable this electorate is after two close elections. However his claims regarding Labor’s economic management cannot go unchallenged.
Inflation has been tamed, interest rates cut, a third budget surplus is possible, wages are growing, and a genuine attempt at fair and effective tax reform and lifting productivity is underway.
There can be no doubt who is now best at managing the economy – the Albanese Labor government.
During nine years of Coalition government we lost Australia’s car industry, witnessed the lowest level of business investment in 20 years, and watched in alarm as they infuriated China so trade in beef, barley and wine was brought to a halt.
On top of that, the Coalition gave us years of stagnant wages, productivity at a 60-year low, a housing crisis, and no action on climate change which is now costing billions in insurance and compensation payments.
Under the Nationals we endured inflation above 6 per cent, high interest rates, and the biggest debt and deficit disaster ever, with the budget $80 billion in the red and national debt nearly $1 trillion, costing $20 billion every year to service.
They wasted $28 billion on JobKeeper paying companies that didn’t need it and never paid it back, and their war on TAFE resulted in 20,000 fewer apprenticeships which are now desperately needed to build more houses.
Thanks to the Nationals the Coalition never landed an energy policy, resulting in higher electricity prices, and let’s never forget the unlawful and iniquitous Robodebt causing untold misery to thousands of innocent Australians.
Now all they do is vote No to Labor’s cost of living measures and tax cuts.
Is it any wonder the public finally woke up to which party is the better economic manager?!
Regards, Harry CREAMER, Port Macquarie.
OPINION & LETTERS
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
THE US summer blockbuster season rolls on, with Jurassic World: Rebirth roaring into theatres.
Long gone are the days of the dinosaurs running amok in a theme park; now the “de-extinct” beasts settle wherever they can find a favourable climate.
Despite this premise being ripe with possible storylines, the film sees a special team formed to raid a remote island to retrieve genetic samples from an isolated facility, only to encounter all-new, mutated species of prehistoric creatures.
The plot may sound disappointing on the surface, but the film is helmed by director Gareth Edwards, whose Godzilla series has given him an impressive track record for grand action featuring giant beasts.
Joining the franchise on-screen is Scarlett Johansson as toughgirl Zora, Mahershala Ali as team leader Kincaid, and Jonathan Bailey as
paleontologist Henry Loomis.
Since it’s arriving in time for the upcoming school holidays, it will at the very least give families a day at the pictures together.
Easier to find streaming than in an actual theatre is the latest film from legendary “body-horror” filmmaker David Cronenberg, The Shrouds
Starring Vincent Cassel (Black Swan) as the creator of a broadcast system that shows grieving relatives their deceased loved ones in their graves (in real time), the film is a somewhat surreal, very disturbing - though strangely sensitive - portrayal of how death affects those left behind.
Beginning production as a Netflix series, Cronenberg pivoted to making a feature film when the streaming giant pulled out.
Guy Pearce, Diane Kruger and Sandrine Holt join Cassell on-screen to try and uncover an apparent conspiracy after the “GraveTech” system is hacked and the graves are
Superannuation changes
DEAR News Of The Area,
I WISH to comment on Pat Conaghan MP’s statement in NOTA on June 27, about the Labor Government’s economic performance and particularly his statements about the proposed tax on superannuation earnings on balances over $3million.
I question Mr Conaghan’s claim that this tax will badly affect
farmers and small businesses in our area.
The plan is to increase the tax rate on super annual earnings for balances exceeding $3 million from 15 percent to 30 percent.
The tax would apply only to the amount above $3 million and it will affect just the top 0.5 percent of people with super – only about 80,000 people.
It would save the government
more than $2 billion a year.
Mr Conaghan, how many farmers and small businesses in the electorate of Cowper fall under this category of wealth?
Even so it will hardly affect their financial situation, compared to so many who are struggling with the cost of living.
There is criticism about the government’s intention not to index the $3 million threshold.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
My wife is preparing for the latest weather event like we are getting ready for a world war.
What can I do to put her mind at ease?
Kevin B.
Dear Kevin,
I received your conundrum during the calm before the storm, so to speak, at which point some media outlets were using words like powerful, heavy, strong, and persistent, and others were using words like wild, smashing, battering, and cyclonic.
You are possibly like the early reports: becalmed and casually turning the pages of the newspaper, while your wife is in full bomb cyclone phase with her eyes glued to social media where she's watching Insta reels of cows flying through the air and people canoeing down main roads.
There are some of us, Kevin, that like to be prepared.
Others call us catastrophisers.
defaced.
Cronenberg’s films have always been uncomfortable explorations of the human condition, which is exactly the way he wants them to be.
For those wanting a little more reality, The Wolves Always Come at Night is a “docufiction” film that will be well worth finding.
Real life Mongolian couple Davaasuren Dagvasuren and Otgonzaya Dashzeveg are the focus of this film, which follows the breakdown of their rural lives as shepherds due to climate change, and their subsequent move to the city to find work.
The story is broadly the couple’s true-tolife experience, though what is captured on film are recreations of those experiences.
The resulting work is challenging and touching in equal measure.
The film is the work of Australian Gabrielle Brady, and is a co-production of companies in Australia, Germany and Mongolia.
Maybe we are, but you can bet when the mud hits the fan and the power goes out for five days, that we will be called upon for assistance.
And we may or may not choose to share our storm plan, complete first aid kit, battery operated AM/FM radio, torches with spare batteries, travel chargers, spare clothes and shoes, sand bags and various dehydrated meals that we will be happily warming on our Butane Combi stove.
And we will be too tired, Kevin, to assist you with your preparations, because we have spent the last week, during clear weather, trimming branches and overhanging limbs, cleaning gutters, checking the roof for loose tiles, double checking the coverage of our home and contents insurance, and preparing our flood evacuation plan.
You, meanwhile, will feel that dusting off the UNO cards, buying a six-pack of tealight candles, and having a vague (and possibly mistaken) idea of where the solitary torch is, will suffice.
And it may suffice, Kevin, but those of us who have battled through past extreme weather events will most likely empathise with your wife.
Preparation is the key when we are experiencing more and more intense storms.
I sincerely hope, for your sake, that this one is just a storm in a teacup.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
If it was left unchanged forever, inflation would eventually cause the higher tax to apply to all the young.
However, there will be plenty of time to raise the threshold before then.
The extra tax would apply not just to interest and dividend income, but also unrealised capital gains.
This is not as iniquitous as Mr Conaghan claims.
Homeowners pay council rates that increase over time with
land prices and so-called ‘capital improved value, and land tax is a tax based on capital appreciation, i.e. an unrealised gain.
Mr Conaghan’s economic priorities seem to favour wealthy Australians and I think he and his National Party colleagues should focus on economic measures that benefit everyone in the community.
Regards, Les MITCHELL, Port Macquarie.
SUDOKU
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BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
THAT BLACKFELLA SHOW
ABC TV, 7.30pm
Premiering on the eve of NAIDOC Week, this one-ofa-kind variety special guarantees laughs, music and quality yarns told in front of a studio audience. Aussie icon Ernie Dingo and ABC News Breakfast journo Bridget Brennan host, with musician, activist and social media star Isaac Compton (above right, with Dingo and Brennan) providing comic relief. While it’s a loud, proud celebration of Indigenous voices and culture, That Blackfella Show aspires to be a source of entertainment and a point of connection for all Australians. It’s a stacked hour of power that TV has been crying out for.
FRIDAY, July 4
TV (2)
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R) 11.10 Little Disasters. (Mals,
SUNDAY
DANCING WITH THE STARS
SEVEN, 7pm
Now that we’ve seen all 12 celebs (and host Sonia Kruger) put their best footwork forward, the first elimination looms for the second batch of stars. and Away’s Kyle Shilling opens tonight’s show with a powerful Viennese waltz, before newsreader Karina Carvalho shuns her serious side for a sexy salsa, and Mia Fevola pays tribute to her mum Alex by waltzing to a sentimental song. It’s a hard act to follow, but Shaun Micallef (pictured) brings his very best Fred Astaire to the foxtrot. Then, the only way is up for Osher Günsberg, who’s determined to improve upon his single-digit score. Comedian Felicity Ward closes the show with a paper-doll cha cha that’s anything but onedimensional. This disco inferno is only just heating up.
due to being autistic. 9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.
4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
TUESDAY
GREAT CONTINENTAL RAILWAY JOURNEYS
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits Jimmy Rees. 8.00 Football. AFL. Round 17. West Coast v GWS Giants.
11.00 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.30 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
12.00 House Of Wellness. (PGals, R) The team explores ASMR. 1.00 Nurses. (Ma, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today.
SBS, 7.30pm
The always colourful Michael Portillo (pictured) and his trusty 1936 Bradshaw’s Continental Handbook are back for an eighth season of riding the rails through culture and history. This season sees Michael journey into Europe, the Balkans, Central Asia and India, seeing how things have changed since Bradshaw’s days and immersing himself in traditions and practices. The journey begins with a trip through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where Michael faces some modern-day gladiators, assumes the duties of stationmaster and explores an organic olive farm, before discovering some beautiful 15th-century frescoes in a tiny church.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 18. Canterbury Bulldogs v Brisbane Broncos. From Accor Stadium, Sydney.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Canterbury Bulldogs versus Brisbane Broncos match, with news and analysis. 10.45 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5 Late.
5.00 Fishing Australia. (R) The team visits South Australia’s Port Lincoln.
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R) Shane checks out a laneway full of restaurants.
Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. (Return) 7.50 MOVIE: Teen Titans Go! To The Movies. (2018, PG) 9.15 BTN Newsbreak. 9.20 Robot Wars. 10.20 Walking With Dinosaurs. 11.10 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Jeopardy! UK. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 Space Invaders. Noon MOVIE: Ruby’s Choice. (2022, PG) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Superman Returns. (2006,
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 House Hunters Australia. (PGl) A couple looks for a home near Lake Macquarie, NSW. 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. (Malv, R) Guests include Kevin Hart.
SATURDAY, July 5
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. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.20 Dragon Ball Super. 10.45 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, July 6
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG) Hosted by Adam Hills.
8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Madv) Stella is thrown into a tailspin.
8.50 Little Disasters. (Mal) Social Services threatens to split up the Carrisfords.
9.40 Namatjira Project: The Quest For Justice. (Ml, R) Charts the story of the Namatjira family.
11.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R)
11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.40 Under The Vines. (PG, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
FAMILY (22)
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 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Abbott Elementary. 10.15 Speechless. 10.35 Merlin. 11.20 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet. (PG)
8.25 Hitler’s Jewish Soldier? Australia Uncovered. (Mav, R)
9.35 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 1.
2.15 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mv, R)
3.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGaw, R)
4.55 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
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)
7.30 MOVIE: Evan Almighty. (2007, G, R) A man is ordered to build an ark. Steve Carell.
9.30 MOVIE: No Hard Feelings. (2023, MA15+lns) A woman tries to help a teenage boy. Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman.
11.40 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mals, R)
1.05 Nurses. (Ma, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGals, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. Pre-game coverage of the Wimbledon tennis tournament, featuring reviews, previews, interviews, highlights, opinions and topical stories, from the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. 8.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 6. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.
12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 6 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple know it’s time to make a decision. 8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Mlm, R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Big
Steal. Continued. (1990, PG) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.05 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 10.00 Suffragette. (2015, M) Noon The Lawnmower Man. (1992, M) 2.40 RBG. (2018, PG) 4.30 Francis: Pray For Me. (2015, PG, Spanish) 6.30 Music & Lyrics. (2007) 8.30 May December. (2023) 10.40 Alma & Oskar. (2022, MA15+) 12.20am Kill Bill: Vol. 2. (2004, MA15+) 2.55 Late Programs.
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6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Mont-Saint-Michel: Rising Again. Looks at Mont-Saint-Michel, a triumph of technical prowess, spiritual ambition and architectural audacity.
8.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 2. Lauwin-Planque to Boulogne-surMer. 209.1km hilly stage. From France.
2.10 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)
3.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGalw, R)
4.55 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 APAC Weekly.
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6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PGl) The second group hits the ballroom floor once again.
8.30 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.30 The Philpotts: A Very British Horror. (Mlsv) Examines a house fire. 11.00 Crime Investigation Australia. (Mav, R)
12.20 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R)
1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PGl) Ordinary Australians become travel critics, continuing with a trip to San Francisco, where they explores its steep hills, see some new technology and take in Yosemite National Park.
8.10 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.10 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 7. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 7 Late.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am RBG. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.50 Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 9.05 Music & Lyrics. (2007, PG) 11.05 History Of The Occult. (2020, M, Spanish) 12.40pm Shaft. (1971, M) 2.35 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 4.30 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 6.25 Where Angels Fear To Tread. (1991) 8.30 This Boy’s Life. (1993) 10.50 The Broken Land. (2021, M, Italian) 12.30am Late Programs.
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FRIDAY JULY 18TH, 2025 6:00 - 10:00
Ruins Way, Port
MONDAY, July 7
TUESDAY, July 8
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Portillo’s Andalucia. (Ml, R) 8.20 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand. (PG, R) 9.15 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 3.
2.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 3.10 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (R)
3.55 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.25 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. (PGad)
7.30 The 1% Club. (PGls, R) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.
8.30 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena investigates the brutal beating of a man found behind a grocery store.
10.30 The Agenda Setters.
11.30 Police Custody USA. (Malv, R)
12.30 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Malv)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Parental Guidance. (PGas) Eight sets of parents with very different parenting styles put their methods to the test. 9.00 100% Footy. (M) Phil Gould, Paul Gallen, Cam Smith and James Bracey look at the latest rugby league news, with exclusive insights from an expert panel of some of the sports’ most influential figures.
10.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 8.
12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 8 Late.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Today.
5.30 7.30. (R)
VICELAND (31) 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. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This
VICELAND (31)
6am Morning
Programs. 6.15 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 8.15 Where Angels Fear To Tread. (1991) 10.20 The Movie Show. 10.55 A Most Wanted Man. (2014, M) 1.10pm The Movie Show. 1.45 Music & Lyrics. (2007, PG) 3.45 Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 6.00 Another Country. (2015, PG) 7.25 The Monk And The Gun. (2023, PG, Dzongkha) 9.30 Sweet As. (2022, M) 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (Return, PGav)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 4.
2.00 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
3.00 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (R) 3.50 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (PG, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Fashionista. 6.10 The Food That Built The World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The UnBelievable. 10.10 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Aust.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGas) Dana’s worried for Irene. 7.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mlns) The couples receive another surprise crate and face off at the next Couples Cove.
10.25 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
11.30 Police Custody USA: Meth Wars. (Madl, R) Cops try to bring down a drug kingpin.
12.30 Fairly Legal. (Ma, R)
2.30 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 Paramedics. (Return, Mlm) 8.30 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml) Hosted by Brad Fittler, Danika Mason and Andrew Johns. 9.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. Pre-game coverage of Wimbledon. 10.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 9. Quarter-finals. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 9 Late. Quarter-finals. 4.00 Getaway.
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6am Sissi: The Fateful Years. Continued. (1957, PG, German) 7.10 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 9.00 Another Country. (2015, PG) 10.25 The Broken Land. (2021, M, Italian) 12.05pm Sweet As. (2022, M) 1.40 Sissi. (1955, German) 3.40 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 5.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 7.30 A Bronx Tale. (1993, M) 9.45 The Drover’s Wife. (2021, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs.
WEDNESDAY, July 9
3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Point. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 4. H’lights.
How Disney Built America. (PG) 8.20 Eat Smart: Secrets Of The Glucose Goddess. (Premiere)
Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 5.
Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 3.10 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (PG, R)
4.00 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 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 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Junior Vets. 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Abbott Elementary. 9.15 Doctor Who. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
Unfiltered. (PGa)
Ashley Cain: Into The Danger Zone. (Malv) 11.20 Stags. (MA15+adv) 12.20 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)
Travel Oz. (PG, R)
Home Shopping. (R)
NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 Fashionista. 4.10 News. 4.15 WorldWatch. 6.15 The Food That Built The World. 7.00 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30
6am Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom. (2019, PG, Dzongkha) 8.10 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 10.00 The Movie Show. 10.35 Tudawali. (1987, M) 12.15pm A Bronx Tale. (1993, M) 2.30 Another Country. (2015, PG) 3.55 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 5.55 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 7.35 The Delinquents. (1989, M) 9.30 Mad Bastards. (2010, MA15+) 11.20 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, July 10
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. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 8.00 Junior Vets. 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.15 Saved By The Barn. 9.55
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 4. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 5. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Going Places. (PG, R) 2.35
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes. (PG)
8.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 6. 1.55 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R)
2.55 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (PGad, R)
3.45 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
H’lights. 4.00 News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.00 Over The Black Dot. 6.30 Travel Man. 7.00 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 The UnXplained.
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am It All Began When I Met You. Continued. (2013, PG, Japanese) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.10 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 10.00 The Delinquents. (1989, M) 11.55 Into The Darkness. (2020, M, Danish) 2.40pm Anne Of Green Gables. (2016, PG) 4.20 Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom. (2019, PG, Dzongkha) 6.20 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG) 7.55 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 9.30 Walkabout. (1971, M) 11.30 Late Programs.
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Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG) Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson. 9.30 Air Crash Investigations: Running On Empty. (PGa) Looks at an Air Tahoma cargo plane crash. 10.30 Million Pound Pawn. (PG) 11.30 Evil By Design. (Mav, R) 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.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. State of Origin. Game 3. New South Wales v Queensland. 10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 3 of the State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland. 11.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 10. Quarter-finals. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 10 Late. Quarter-finals. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard. 4.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
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6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 2. Wests Tigers v Canterbury Bulldogs. 10.00 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. Pre-game coverage of Wimbledon. 10.30 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 11. Semi-finals. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 11 Late. Semi-finals. 3.00 Tipping Point.
Lake Cathie recently made history by co-hosting their first State Pennant Playoff for Bowls NSW, featuring Grade 7 Open Bowls Finals for the 2024/25 season.
Running from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 June, the event attracted over 200 players from across NSW.
“We had sixteen clubs from across the state all competing for the state flag from Nyngan to Holbrook and beyond,” said Tim Harris, General Manager of Club North Haven.
In order to participate in this three-day tournament, each club had to first emerge victorious in their respective regions.
