By Sue STEPHENSON
Alex
SPREADING SMILES
By Rikki WALLER
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Boys behaving badly
FROM Page 1
reminders of how much joy, and business, these giants of the sea bring to the Hastings and Camden Haven communities.
Jodi Heeney, who runs Port Jet Cruises with her husband Anthony, told News Of The Area that the long weekend was “enormous” with hundreds of tourists a day wanting to see the whales.
Among the passengers were visitors who return “season after season”.
“Port Macquarie is a great destination because we’re through the [coastal] bar and out to the whales in minutes.
“At this time of year they come in nice and close to the lighthouse.”
Jodi said some tourists were taken aback by the “competitive pod” of juvenile males that came through on Monday, 6 October.
“The young adolescents were barging and pushing each other around, with the mothers below them protecting their calves.”
As the cruise skippers captured video of the “boys behaving badly”,
Alex captured the pod from the air.
The professional photographer, widely known for his photos of the region’s animals and scenery and for his sand art on Oxley Beach, estimates at least 10 or possibly 11 whales were in the pod.
He told NOTA he launched his drone after getting a tip from spotter Leigh Mansfield, who directs the Port Jet Cruises from the Tacking Point Lighthouse.
“He is invaluable for me as he lets me know when there is something of interest during the season, since he is up there all the hours of the day with binoculars,” Alex said.
“He is an expert at picking the telltale signs from miles away.”
While Alex shares some of his photos for others to enjoy and to keep the community informed, he and Leigh also play a key role in protecting the humpbacks.
“Leigh also works with National Parks for entanglement and other whale welfare issues, and I have [the National]
Park’s full authority to fly as close as I need to get detailed shots to brief rescue teams.
“Typically though, I don't need to go close.
“In fact, I like to shoot from the maximum allowable height, since the drone I use can capture both wide angle and the powerful zoom simultaneously.
“This is invaluable when video editing.
“For the capture of the fast pod, I was already aware the whale watching
boat was some miles north with them and reporting vigorous action.
“So, I chose to wait at Rocky Beach for them to come past, which would give me a much shorter distance to fly out… before the inevitable return to the launch point for a battery change.
“Having secured the clips from that section of the coast, I then dashed down to Tacking Point… so I was able to get a long video for the final edit.”
Both Alex and Jodi say the return migration has been strong, with the run of dry weather and the
improved water quality bringing the whales closer to shore.
Alex posts his daily material on Facebook (alex.mcnaught or RovingEyeDotCom) and on YouTube (@ AlexMcNaught/videos).
He also uploads a monthly galley for viewing and sale at roving-eye. com/.
Jodie Lowe’s photos are on the Port Jet Cruises social pages and at jodielowesmarineanimalphotography.com/.
The season is expected to run for another month.
q This spectacular breach off Port Macquarie’s Town Beach last week has been shared around the world. Photo: Jodie Lowe’s Marine Animal Photography.
q Whale spotter Leigh Mansfield at Tacking Point Lighthouse. Photo: Sue Stephenson.
Crime Stoppers encourages locals to report
By Rikki WALLER
CRIME
This encouragement follows News Of The Area’s report last week about an apparent increase in youth crime in Wauchope.
Residents say there has been a lack of police action in response to their multiple calls.
Crime Stoppers and NSW Police want people to continue reporting what they know.
it’s crimes like trespassing, illegal hunting, theft, physical assault, or online offences such as child exploitation, unwanted contact, cyberbullying, and scams.
Outside of triple zero, Crime Stoppers offers an accessible and confidential way for the public to share information, ensuring it reaches the appropriate police authorities for action.
“We often see people are willing to share information online, such as through online community groups, so neighbours and the local
community are aware of what’s happening in their neighbourhood,” said Crime Stoppers NSW CEO Peter Price AM.
“And while that information can help [people] be aware of suspicious activity, sharing that information with Crime Stoppers ensures it’s passed on to police so the appropriate action can be taken.”
After telling NOTA last week that over 40 calls to police were left unanswered or de-prioritised during ongoing youth disturbances
and safety concerns last month, Wauchope resident Amy Murphy has lost faith in reporting to police.
“Residents who spoke to the highway patrol officer were informed that the police were simply too busy to attend, and the triple-zero calls were marked in their system as a low priority," said Amy.
“[We’re] tired of dealing with the aftermath of these teenagers, who think that they are above the law, or know that no matter what they do, they will receive minimal to no punishment.”
There are several ways the community can report crime in the local area, including contacting the Police Assistance Line (PAL), visiting or calling the local police station, reaching out to Crime Stoppers, or calling Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Dangerous incidents on Mid North Coast roads
OFFICERS from Mid North Coast Highway Patrol stopped a 40-year-old man on Lighthouse Road, Port Macquarie for a random breath test at about 4pm on Sunday 5 October, where he allegedly returned a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading of 0.241.
The legal limit for full licence holders in NSW is 0.05.
He was charged with “High Range PCA (prescribed concentration of alcohol) –2nd offence”.
His licence was also suspended.
The incident came on a long weekend where three lives were lost on New South Wales roads.
NSW Police reported a number of dangerous incidents across the Mid North Coast.
About 10.10pm on Saturday 4 October, officers attached to Coffs Harbour Highway Patrol allegedly detected a vehicle travelling on the Pacific Highway, Dirty Creek, at 183kph in a 110kph zone.
The 19-year-old male driver was issued a court attendance notice to appear
at Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday 2 December 2025.
It will also be alleged that the vehicle was not displaying P plates.
In another incident at about 10:25am on Sunday, 5 October, officers attached to Grafton Highway Patrol stopped a 17-year-old girl allegedly travelling at 157kmh in a 110kmh zone along the Pacific Highway, Pillar Valley.
She was issued a $3,054 infringement and a sixmonth licence suspension notice.
NSW Police’s Operation Labour Day 2025 commenced at 12.01am on Friday 3 October and concluded at 11.59pm on Monday 6 October.
The high-visibility operation saw police across the state targeting drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding and seat belt and helmet offences, with double demerits in place for the duration.
Across the state, police issued 11,389 Traffic Infringement Notices, including 4,026 for speed related offences, 302 for
mobile phone usage, and 174 seatbelt/helmet related offences.
Police conducted more than 214,906 breath tests, with 300 drink driving offences recorded.
Another 11,283 drug tests were conducted, with 724 drug driving offences detected.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver APM said every incident that puts lives in danger is one too many.
“Officers this weekend saw several incidents of drink
The community is encouraged to report any theft to PAL on 131 444, and report suspicious or actual criminal information to Crime Stoppers at nsw. crimestoppers.com.au/ or call 1800 333 000.
and drug driving, speeding, and not following the road rules and it’s devastating that families are now mourning the loss of loved ones,” he said.
“While most drivers are doing the right thing, we are disappointed that we continue to see people choosing to put themselves and other road users in danger.
“While this traffic operation has concluded, drivers can always expect to see police out on our roads, and we will continue to target dangerous driving to ensure the safety of our communities.”
q Contact Crime Stoppers to report criminal activity. Photo: crimestoppersact.com.au.
Port to Port building blitz
THE Building Commission NSW has released the results of its three-day inspection blitz of worksites between Port Stephens and Port Macquarie.
During August, a team of inspectors visited 41 sites across Nelson Bay, Forster, Diamond Beach, Bonny Hills and Port Macquarie.
Inspections focused on identifying defective building work, monitoring for unlicensed or unsupervised specialist trades and ensuring site safety and management controls were in place.
Building Minister Anoulack Chanthivong said that while the state needs to deliver more than 75,000 new homes each year to meet the National Housing Accord target, it is not interested in sacrificing quality.
“So, tackling misconduct in the state’s building industry is more critical than ever.”
While the overall standard of work was good, inspectors have either issued or expect to issue 13 rectification orders for a range of defects.
These are mostly for non-compliant masonry work, with inspectors noting particular issues with control joints and bricks overhanging the concrete slab.
Positively, no incorrect installations of Damp Proof Course were identified in this round of site visits, after inspection blitzes in other regional parts of NSW found it was a common issue.
Damp Proof Course is designed to prevent moisture from the ground seeping upwards into the brick work and if not installed properly can lead to long term issues with mould and damp.
During the inspection blitz, Building Commission NSW also issued 22 Penalty
Infringement Notices (PINS) worth $17,970, with over half (13) relating to improper builder or certifier site signage.
Clear and correct signage is vital to ensure workers and visitors are aware of who is working on the site, as well as the relevant safety procedures, hazards and restrictions on the project.
The remaining PINS were issued for unlicensed work or contracting (4), noncompliant electrical work (3), insufficient supervision of trades (1) and undertaking work without insurance (1).
An additional nine Written Direction Notices (WDNS) were issued for noncompliant electrical work, with the main issue identified being non-compliant residual current devices (RCDS) and switchboards used on construction sites not configured and labelled for construction use.
Rectification Orders are finalised and made public, Building Commission NSW must consider written representations from the developer or principal contractor, as required by legislation.
In the coming months Building Commission NSW inspectors will re-inspect sites where issues were
identified to ensure orders are complied with and defects are rectified.
Building Commissioner James Sherrard said the inspections were not just about issuing rectification orders or fines.
“Our inspectors also aim to educate those on site when problems are identified.
“[They] delivered 40 on-
the-spot education notices to trades, covering issues such as signage and licensing, with the goal of preventing these problems from recurring. The Commission will continue to visit a range of regional sites across NSW in the coming months, deploying teams of inspectors to ensure building quality is maintained.
Lake Cathie closes to the ocean
LAKE CATHIE has closed to the ocean, however Port Macquarie-Hastings Council says conditions remain “ripe for recreation”.
Excessive sand movement and dry conditions have caused the sand berm to close the entrance to the ocean, after more than 15 months of favourable weather conditions allowing it to remain open, according to Council.
This is a naturally occurring process and a regular phenomenon for Intermittently Closed and Open Lakes and Lagoons (ICOLLs).
An opening will typically
occur when water levels rise due to rainfall, while closures happen as sand accumulates - creating a berm which acts as a natural seal between the lake and ocean.
Mayor Adam Roberts said
the closure is a normal part of the lake’s natural cycle and should not deter people from enjoying the lake's recreational offerings.
“Lake Cathie has been open to the ocean for an extended period, and it’s been wonderful to see so many people out enjoying the pristine conditions we have been blessed with for more than 15 months,” Mayor Roberts said.
“The recent closure is part of the normal opening and closing process of ICOLLs, and conditions for swimming, fishing and other recreational activities are still suitable.”
As part of the Lake Cathie Standard Operating Procedure, Council is only authorised to conduct an artificial opening during emergency scenarios when water levels threaten critical infrastructure and surrounding properties.
“I understand and appreciate that many locals
and visitors do prefer the environment more when it's open, however it’s important to remind our community that Council only has a license to conduct an artificial opening during emergencies, and not to improve the lake’s recreational amenity,” Mayor Roberts said.
“Council last conducted a scrape of the lake’s berm in May 2024 when water levels reached the required emergency trigger point after a sustained period of rainfall.
“This opening was conducted to proactively protect nearby infrastructure and properties at increased risk of flooding.”
Council staff will continue to monitor water levels and quality.
“Separate works will also progress with foreshore maintenance and protection to the embankment at Lake Cathie, caused by recent erosion, during November,” Mayor Roberts said.
q Building inspectors visited sites between Port Stephens and Port Macquarie.
q An opening will typically occur when water levels rise due to rainfall, while closures happen as sand accumulates - creating a berm which acts as a natural seal between the lake and ocean.
Ocean’s ‘No Curse’ for local filmmaker
By Rikki WALLER
JUST over a year ago, as she welcomed her first child into the world, Sarah Mawbey made the decision to leave the United States and make Port Macquarie her home.
With her parents retired in the area and her sister and her family also calling the town home, Sarah chose the community as the perfect place to raise her daughtersafe, beautiful, and quiet, yet close-knit and supportive.
It was this very community that Sarah ended up needing the most when she lost everything after her home went underwater in the floods.
One community member extended a warm and welcome hand that has turned into something very
special.
“Andy Liebeck of Andy Pandy Hair Candy lost everything in a house fire the year before the floods,” Sarah told News Of The Area.
“His offer of empathy and support turned into a friendship, and now, an exciting collaboration.”
That collaboration is her indie filmmaking project, “The Ocean’s Curse”; a feature film being created under TrashCat Studios.
“I invited Andy to come on board as Hair and Makeup Artist for the film, as well as an Associate Producer to help spread the word.
“Our vision is to bring fresh storytelling and opportunities for collaboration to the Mid North Coast, highlighting both local and international
connections.”
Directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker and owner of DCP Australia
Johan Earl, and produced by Sarah and Yolandi Franken, The Ocean’s Curse is a stormtossed fantasy epic.
With Tom Gleeson as Director of Photography, the film weaves a gripping tale of
family, survival, and sacrifice, blending adrenaline-fueled action with haunting visuals and emotional depth.
Australian screen legend Tony Bonner AM (Skippy, The Man from Snowy River, ANZACs) has joined the cast as Captain David Jones.
The production follows the global success of the
team’s “Forbidden Ground”, which was distributed by Lionsgate and available on major streaming platforms internationally.
“The Ocean’s Curse is our chance to push indie filmmaking to new heights,” said Johan Earl.
“We’re making this film for our kids and for every
dreamer out there to prove that with heart and hustle, anything is possible,” added Sarah.
Sarah has many impressive production credits to her name including Maestro (Bradley Cooper), White Noise (Noah Baumbach), and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Drew named Apprentice of the Year
Meet local author Hayley Lawrence
By Sis HIGGINS
LOCAL author Hayley
Lawrence will appear at Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie from 11am to 12pm on Saturday, 11 October, for signed copies of her latest young adult novel, “Into the Wild”.
Hayley Lawrence is one of Australia’s best-selling authors of young adult fiction, celebrated for her emotionally charged stories and moral depth.
Wendy Ranger, owner of Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie, said she is proud to host a local author who
PORT Macquarie apprentice
mechanic Drew Miante has been named the BusNSW Apprentice of the Year.
Drew works at the Busways Port Macquarie depot and was recognised for her outstanding skills, determination and contribution to keeping buses safely on the road.
The award was announced on 1 October at the association’s annual member conference in the Hunter Valley.
Now in her third year of a Certificate III in
continues to make waves in Australian literature.
“Supporting local authors is an important part of what we do.
“Love Your Bookshop Day is a great opportunity for readers to meet Hayley in person, hear about her writing journey, and take home a signed copy of her latest book,” Wendy said.
Drawing on her background as a lawyer, Hayley’s novels explore ethical dilemmas and the consequences of imperfect choices.
Her newest release, “Into the Wild”, follows five teens whose survival challenge becomes a test of endurance, character, and forgiveness.
Set in a remote, subzero wilderness, the story explores how one reckless decision can fracture trust and change lives forever.
With multiple accolades from the Children’s Book Council of Australia, including Notable books, a shortlisting and an Honour Book, Hayley’s novels continue to captivate readers across Australia and New Zealand.
Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie Love Your Bookshop Day is held on Saturday 11 October from 10am to 4pm.
Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Kurri Kurri TAFE, Drew has already proven herself an important member of the Busways mechanical team.
From supporting senior mechanics in complex repairs to taking initiative on advanced training opportunities, she has shown the drive and resilience that sets her apart.
Drew said she was grateful for the encouragement she has received
“I am proud to be part of a team that invested in my
growth and gave me a chance to succeed.
“Being a woman in this trade hasn’t always been easy, but it has shaped me into who I am today.
“I am excited to keep learning, take on bigger challenges, and hopefully inspire more young women to see that this trade has a place for them too.”
Busways Regional Asset Manager Shane Golden said Drew’s achievement highlights both her hard work and the strong culture of support across the Port
Macquarie depot.
“Drew’s determination and willingness to step up to every challenge have made her a standout apprentice,” he said.
“What makes this even more special is the way her teammates have backed her, shared their knowledge, and celebrated her progress.”
The BusNSW Apprentice of the Year Award celebrates emerging talent within the bus and coach industry, recognising those who are setting high standards early in their careers.
SPREADING SMILES
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of crafting and an intense desire to help kids smile
“Zaylee's inspiration behind the bracelets was to bring some cheer to the kids who couldn't enjoy the holidays in the same way as she is able to,” mum Sharee Cupitt told News Of The Area.
“Poppy is hoping the bracelets make kids in the hospital smile.
“She thinks her handmade bracelets can bring a little joy to their day.”
And joy it did bring, with Nurse Unit Manager Paediatrics, Darlene Malineack, sharing a beautiful message via Facebook thanking the girls for their kindness.
With their big hearts and generous nature being the catalyst for their loom band love, it’s unsurprising that this isn’t the first time that Poppy and Zaylee have worked together to do something charitable for the community.
Last year, the girls started adorning rocks
with hand painted designs and gifted them to people on their afternoon walks around their neighbourhood.
This year, with their birthdays delivering them their beloved loom band kits, they started making bracelets for not just themselves, but also their friends and family, eventually delivering their box of smiles to the
children’s ward.
With Poppy and Zaylee already having their thinking caps on for what’s next, this isn’t the last time that the community will hear from them.
“Their father Greg and I are so proud of them both,” Sharee said.
“Now the girls are brainstorming more ideas to spread fun and kindness in the community.”
q Local film producer Sarah Mawbey. Photo: supplied.
q Forbidden Ground in production. Photo: supplied.
q Busways apprentice mechanic Drew Miante on the job at the Port Macquarie depot. Photo: supplied.
q Local author Hayley Lawrence. Photo: supplied.
q Zaylee and Poppy Cupitt with their box full of loom band love. Photo: supplied.
Teeing up futures for Hastings students
By Sis HIGGINS
THE community united through golf to raise funds for the Hastings Education Fund (HEF), ensuring it can continue its work supporting local students.
As part of the Country Education Foundation of Australia, HEF helps young people from the Port Macquarie-Hastings area as they move from high school into university, apprenticeships or further training.
Karen Bale, Media and Promotions at HEF, said the group runs on local support from sponsors, donors and volunteers who “understand that helping
our young people means investing in the future of the Hastings region.”
“Many former HEF recipients are now doing amazing things in fields like healthcare, education, engineering, science and the arts,” she said.
“It just goes to show what can happen when we believe in our local talent and give them a bit of support."
Ms Bale said there were 25 teams involved in the fundraising day.
“Currently the money raised is sitting at $5054, but will go higher."
Since it began, HEF has supported many students to overcome the challenges
of regional life, including travel distance, financial strain and limited access to resources.
Its grants cover costs such as accommodation, transport, laptops and textbooks to help students get started after high school.
In 2025, HEF awarded 31 Commencing Grants and 13 Continuing Scholarships, with a total of $174,500 distributed to local students.
This was made possible through the generosity of 85 local sponsors.
HEF continues to look for further support and sponsors.
Hastings pubs on shortlist of state’s best
By Sue STEPHENSON
THE Australian Hotels Association (AHA) reckons the Hastings’ pubs are among the state’s best when
it comes to food, music and generally being “the heart of the community”.
Port Macquarie, Lake Cathie, Wauchope, Beechwood and Long Flat all
feature on the list of finalists for this year’s AHA NSW Awards of Excellence.
These are the most prestigious awards in the hospitality industry and will
be announced in Sydney on 28 October.
Finnians Irish Tavern in Port Macquarie, owned by Hunt Hospitality, will be looking to retain the honour of being Best Live Music Venue, while the Settlers Inn in Port Macquarie and stablemate the Lake Cathie Tavern are both up for Best Regional Local.
Zoe Archer of Settlers Inn Hotel in Port Macquarie is a finalist for the “Industry Rising Star” award while Hastings Hotel chef Ashley Mitcham is in the running to be named “Regional Chef of the Year”.
It is the first time all eight pubs in the Flower Hotels group have made the cut.
Managing Director Alistair Flower shared that
it was a humbling result especially as two categories are group awards.
“We’re proud to see our teams recognised for their hard work, passion, and dedication to our communities.”
For the sixth time, Settlers has also made the list of finalists for the big one - Regional Hotel of the Year.
“Sure we haven’t won it [yet], but to be the only pub continuously on the list is pretty special just the same, considering there are hundreds of great regional pubs.”
The local finalists and their categories are:
- Flower Hotels: Heart of the Community, Group Hotel Operator of the Year.
- Finnian’s Irish Tavern:
Best Live Music Venue.
- Zoe Archer: Industry Rising Star.
- Ashley Mitcham: Regional Chef of the Year.
- Settlers Inn Hotel: Regional Hotel of the Year, Best Regional Local, Best Retail Liquor Outlet (Cellarbrations), Best Parmi, Best Regional Casual Dining.
- Lake Cathie Tavern: Best Regional Local, Best Parmi.
- Long Flat Pub: Best Marketing Activity.
- Hastings Hotel Wauchope: Best Steak.
- Tacking Point Tavern: Best Steak.
- Beechwood Hotel: Best Steak Sandwich.
- Fernhill Tavern: Best Cheap Eat Meal (under $20). State winners may be eligible to enter the National AHA Awards to be announced in November.
Port Mac Goss: My Tipping Point experience
By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS
THIS week’s Port Mac Goss column is a little bit different.
Columnist Dave ‘Scoop’ Lazarus had lined up Greg Davies, Unit Commander for Port Macquarie Marine Rescue, to talk about the upcoming summer season and water safety tips.
However, due to forced unavailability, Greg will be next week's feature.
With the deadline looming, it was decided that we would get to know a little bit more about our regular columnist instead.
In particular, Dave’s recent experience on Channel Nine game show Tipping Point Australia.
“I was lucky to feature as a contestant on this show a few months back,” Dave said.
“It is amazing how many people who saw my episode took a genuine interest, questioning me on what it was like to be involved.”
Dave, tell us about the audition process to get accepted for the show.
I loved watching the English version and would tape it every day. Elsa, my partner, saw a Facebook ad advising potential contestants to apply for the new Australian version. She applied without me knowing and then she received an email to accept an audition via Zoom. There were three or four others in the same audition, and the producers asked a lot of questions to see what sort of personality and fun interaction would develop. I obviously passed that audition and was invited to fly to Melbourne for the taping of the show.
What was the experience like leading up to the taping? Did you have to pay for travel etc?
No! They allowed me to bring a friend
with expenses including airfares, accommodation and limousine transfer to a beautiful motel around the corner from the studio, and a lovely breakfast at the studio. I was treated like a celebrity. It was so much fun.
Did you get to meet host and Aussie sporting legend Todd Woodbridge before the taping?
Yes, he spent about half an hour with me and the other two contestants. He is really down to earth, a lovely man and seemed very genuine.
How did you go on the show? Did you win any money?
Unfortunately, no. I got to the third round and got asked a question and doubted myself, and passed it to my opponent. She answered, and a lot of the "counters" went over the tipping point. That
was enough to get her the chance to win the $20k.
When the episode aired on TV, what was the response?
It was unbelievable! Just walking down the street, people saw me and recognised me and were genuinely interested in the experience. Before it aired, I noticed a lot of negative social media posts stating that the English version was so much better than the Australian version. However, it has proven to be rated better than any other game show in Australian history. In my opinion the English version is still good, but the live studio audience and the more relaxed Aussie "banter" between the contestants and Todd achieves better entertainment value. The good thing is, you don't have to be smart to be a contestant to win, because the machine, as part of the concept, is
unpredictable and many times a smarter contestant doesn't get a chance for the jackpot.
Any tips for anyone who might want to apply to go onto the show?
Just be yourself and have fun. I really enjoyed the experience. Even though I didn't win any money, the two-day, all expenses paid trip to Melbourne, and catching up with my son who lives there, definitely compensated for not winning the jackpot.
q Golf fundraiser attendees Jane Hillsdon, Hayley McGrath, Kev Hillsdon and David McGrath. Photo: supplied.
q Some of the team from Flower Hotels’ Settlers Inn and Tacking Point Tavern. Photos: supplied.
q NOTA columnist Dave ‘Scoop’ Lazarus was a recent contestant on Tipping Point Australia.
‘Take a Seat’ at The Glasshouse
normally go in our own solo work.
“We met in this sweet middle spot - where I have to be a bit weirder and I have to rein Chris in a bit.”
Chris Proctor is a contemporary painter, living and working in Port Macquarie.
His work has an “ugly is beautiful” approach and he reuses found materials to create artworks that are both attractive and meaningful.
“One of the things I really liked about this collaboration is that Brad and I complement each other and are able to work around our lives,” he said.
By Pauline CAIN
THE “Take a Seat” exhibition opened at The Glasshouse Gallery in Port Macquarie on Saturday 28 September, featuring works by Brad Collins and Chris Proctor.
The collaborative exhibition uses material objects such as food, clothing, knick-knacks, mementos, shoes and furniture.
Gallery curator Bridget Purtill introduced Brad and Chris and their “fun, bright and engaging” exhibition.
“From a curator’s point of view it has been beautiful to watch these two pop up everywhere around town, and up and down the coast,” she said.
“It has been wonderful to work with them, to see their concept and to really work on the space and the installation.”
“This is the second time we have collaborated, after our earlier collaboration in Port Central,” he said.
Brad Collins is a multidisciplinary artist and illustrator based in Lake Cathie.
Broken Bago celebrates 43 years of community connection
By Rikki WALLER
MEMBERS of the Broken Bago RSL Day Club hopped aboard the Wauchope RSL Courtesy Bus on Thursday 25 September to enjoy a wonderful outing to Kempsey.
Starting their day off with a visit to the Anglican Op Shop, where a bargain is always waiting, members took to the main shopping area to browse the shops and purchase items to support local small businesses following May’s flood devastation.
They rounded the day out with a delicious lunch together at Lou’s Café.
Broken Bago’s Publicity Officer Barbara Pead, said it is days like these that create the connection that many elderly people within the community are craving.
“We believe our club provides an important and
unique community service open to both men and women who still live independently but who would like a social outlet,” she said.
“Lifelong friendships are formed where members enjoy socialising outside the club.”
Operating out of Wauchope RSL Club, Broken Bago RSL Day Club is a community-based social group that meets regularly to provide social interaction, light physical activity, entertainment, and support, primarily for older adults or those looking to connect with others.
“We aim to provide varied activities to include each member. Our motto is: ‘Making a difference to the lives of older people in our community’.
“There is always a friendly atmosphere.
“Upon arrival members
enjoy a cuppa and bickies while catching up with each other before the formal program begins.”
Activities include gentle
exercises, quizzes, raffles, and games, along with special theme days, guest speakers, entertainers, and occasional bus trips.
Meeting on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 10am to 1:30pm,
“With this exhibition it was exciting to be able to push each other into different realms where we wouldn’t
the club is celebrating its 43rd birthday.
It is run entirely by volunteers and is proudly supported by the Wauchope RSL sub-Branch.
The upcoming program for the remainder of 2025 includes:
23 October: Wear Your Favourite Hat and Carpet
The exhibition runs until 9 November.
The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm and public holidays from 10am to 2pm.
Entry is free.
Bowls.
13 November: Morning Tea outing to Kendall Markets.
27 November: Christmas Party with entertainment
Anyone interested in joining Broken Bago RSL Day Club or who would like further information, can contact Gail on 0418 455 402.
q Chris Proctor and Brad Collins at their exhibition opening. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q The ‘Take a Seat’ exhibition reflects on onceowned and changed objects. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Club members, together with volunteer driver Scott, ready to board the Wauchope RSL Courtesy Bus to Kempsey. Photo: supplied.
Surf lifesaver on wheels
By Rachael THORPE
DURING his younger years
Michael Lord enjoyed participating in Surf Lifesaving, now as a 69-year-old he is back in the red and yellow at Flynns Beach.
The difference is he has been a full-time power wheelchair user for the last six years.
In 2024 Michael contacted the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club and enquired about volunteering.
Much to his delight the club was extremely welcoming and excited to help him achieve his goal.
Stargazing: How long would it take to get to the nearest star?
By Dave RENEKE
EVERY night, the stars wink down at us like ancient storytellers, daring us to come closer.
They’ve been hanging there for billions of years, teasing us with the possibility that someone - or something - might be staring back.
The great cosmic question is simple yet maddening: will we ever actually visit another star?
The nearest one, Proxima Centauri, sits a mere four light-years away.
That sounds manageable until you realize a lightyear is nearly ten trillion kilometers.
If Earth were shrunk to the size of a grain of sand, Proxima would still be the next beach over.
Our fastest spacecraft, Voyager 1, has been plodding along since the 1970s and hasn’t even crossed a single light-day yet. At its pace, you’d be looking at 70,000 years before knocking on
Proxima’s door.
That’s a lot of sandwiches to pack.
And yet, the temptation is irresistible.
In 2016, astronomers discovered Proxima b, a rocky world orbiting right in the star’s “Goldilocks zone.”
Not too hot, not too coldat least in theory.
Could it have oceans? Forests?
Or skies full of strange flying creatures we haven’t even imagined?
For all we know, someone there might be wondering if we exist.
The universe loves a good riddle, and this is one of its best.
Getting there is the tricky part.
Chemical rockets are out - they’re the Model T of space travel.
To cross interstellar space, we’d need the starship equivalent of a Ferrari: nuclear fusion drives, antimatter engines, or even giant laser beams pushing
wafer-thin sails at a fraction of light speed.
The most ambitious idea so far, called Breakthrough Starshot, imagines sending tiny robotic probes to Proxima that would arrive in just a couple of decades.
They wouldn’t carry humans - more like robotic spies - but imagine the first close-up pictures of another star’s planet.
That alone would be the postcard of the millennium.
But the real prize would be a human journey.
Even at 10 percent the speed of light, it would take over 40 years to get there.
That’s an epic road trip - grandparents launching, grandchildren landing.
And that’s assuming you survive cosmic radiation, figure out how to eat without restocking Woolworths, and, importantly, remember how to stop when you get there.
Crashing through another solar system at 30,000 kilometres per second would be a very short visit indeed.
Since then, with the club’s support, Michael has successfully completed certificates in radio operation and surf rating.
Currently he is working through the competencies of a First Aid Certificate.
Michael told News Of The Area, “I was keen to do this because I wanted to give back to the local community in a practical way.
“This was something I could do without needing to be in the water and, from my perspective, there is no difference between me or anybody else.
“We all just want to be a part
of what is going on.
“I really love getting to be with an inspiring group of people who accept me for who I am and make me feel part of the team.
“There is a real sense of camaraderie.”
With evidence from Port Macquarie SLSC, Michael successfully applied for NDIS funding for a 4WD wheelchair.
Once that arrives, he looks forward to being able to go down onto the sand to be a part of the action on the beach.
As a vocal disability advocate, Michael hopes to encourage others to follow his lead.
Still, history favours dreamers.
Once, the Moon was as unreachable as the stars.
Now astronauts look back at Earth from its surface in old photo albums.
Crossing oceans was once madness; today it’s a budget flight.
Maybe our descendants will see interstellar travel as just another commute, albeit one with better snacks.
Will we find life? That’s the shimmering promise.
Maybe it will be microbial slime under alien seas, or maybe - just maybesomething looking up at the same sky, wondering about us.
If two civilizations are staring across the void, perhaps one day we’ll wave across the darkness and finally meet our cosmic neighbours.
Until then, the stars remain both distant and tantalizingly close—like a door we know we’ll open
‘Greyt’ Sunday for Greyhounds
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT Macquarie joined The Great Global Greyhound Walk on Sunday 29 September at Town Beach.
The Walk is an annual event that brings together sighthound owners around the world to raise awareness and promote adoption.
Local volunteers and rehoming groups organised the walks to show that these dogs make great family pets and to encourage responsible ownership.
Two groups took part: Port Macquarie Sighthounds and Greyhound Friends.
“[There was] a total of 17 hounds, being greyhound, Italian greyhound, whippet and wolfhound,” Sighthounds member Tani Cornish told News Of The Area.
eventually.
The question isn’t whether we’ll visit another star.
It’s when we finally get the nerve - and the technology - to knock.
The stars are far, yes - but they are not unreachable forever.
For a species that has already left footprints on another world, the road ahead is not a matter of “if,” only “when.”
“We normally have a lot more but being school [holidays] it’s a busy time, so we hope to be bigger next year on [27 September].
The Great Global Greyhound Walks often include community activities such as picnics, barbecues, charity stalls and fundraising for rehoming programs.
The event continues to grow each year, helping to connect owners and raise awareness for sighthound adoption across Australia and around the world.
The weekend’s organisers invited anyone unable to walk far to still attend for the count, photo and dog treat.
The groups meets every Sunday from 9.30am at the Salty Crew Cafe, Town Beach, and from 4.30pm at Town Green.
“All sighthounds are welcome to join,” Tani said.
“It will be ‘greyt’ to see all [the] ‘houndies’ and siblings.”
q Michael Lord is part of the action on Flynns Beach.
q Port Macquarie Sighthounds and Greyhound Friends at Town Beach. Photo: supplied.
Iona clinch title
By Jules BARDON
IONA FC made it two premierships in as many years as they held off the fast-finishing Macleay Valley Rangers to secure the Zone League 2 grand final 1-0.
Iona finished the regular season as minor premiers and faced an in-form Rangers side.
The first 20 minutes was a cagey affair, with both teams appearing to show nerves.
Rangers favoured their right-side attack, with the speedy Josh Munro causing problems for Iona’s left-side defence.
It wasn’t until midway through the first half that Iona started to settle and play the ball along the ground, recycling attack after attack.
Ibby Khodari carefully orchestrated some piercing through balls to Iona’s front three.
The Rangers defence scrambled to keep the scores level at the break.
As the second half got underway, Iona’s hold of possession only increased.
The Rangers’ midfielders were forced to sit back, close with the backline, leaving their attackers isolated on the counter.
They managed to hold off Iona’s scintillating attack until midway through the second half.
Iona were awarded a free kick a few strides outside the 18-yard box.
The ball was whipped into the danger zone, where it was met by the ever-soreliable Finlay Barker.
The ball ricocheted off the Rangers centre-back into the path of the Iona striker.
Finn headed it back past the goalkeeper and into the bottom corner, Iona’s
relentless attack finally paying off in the 80th minute.
The Rangers quickly switched the momentum
and forced two big saves from Iona’s goalkeeper in the dying minutes. It wasn’t enough though,
as Iona held on for the premiership.
Iona were also 3-1 winners in the North B
(fourth tier) grand final earlier in the day against Camden Haven, topping off a perfect day for the club.
Northern Eagles take on National Youth Championships
By Aiden BURGESS
AUSTRALIA's best young touch footballers have played off for national titles in Coffs Harbour. The city hosted the National Youth
Championships for the second straight year, featuring four big days of representative touch football
at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.
Australia’s premier
Students shine at Grand Final
By Jules BARDON
MID Coast FC made the local area proud on the weekend of 13 September, with four out of eight youth teams appearing in grand finals in Newcastle.
The high-performance youth program competes in the Northern NSW Premier Youth League competition in Newcastle.
It was a day of mixed results for the representative players.
The Under-14 Boys were victorious against New Lambton FC 1–0, with six members of the titlewinning side attending MacKillop College in Port Macquarie.
The Under-16 Boys also tasted success, edging past Charlestown Azzurri 7–6 on penalties after the game finished 0–0 at the end of extra time.
The Under-17 Girls unfortunately had to endure the heartbreak
of a penalty shootout loss, going down 7–6 on penalties after the two sides couldn’t be separated, with the fulltime score locked at 3–3.
The Under-13 Boys were also unlucky, going down 1–0 to New Lambton FC. Overall, it was a successful campaign for Mid Coast FC, who will be looking to continue to build on their success in 2026.
youth touch football event, the tournament was contested by a unique mix of school, regional, and state representative teams.
Teams played off for national titles in eight divisions: boys and girls Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, and Under 18s.
The region’s best junior players were part of the Northern Eagles representative teams, as they took on other rep teams from across the country.
The Northern Eagles represent a region which encompasses a large part of Northern NSW.
Under 16s star Adelaide Keating described what made the country’s top teams so hard to play against.
“They are just so strong, as they get to train together all the time, and they play with each other a lot which helps their teamwork,” she said.
Team captain Audrey Hannaford from Gunnedah said it was her side’s mentality against the strong teams that pleased her the most.
“Probably just our attitude not to give up, especially against the harder teams considering how much they train together.
“It’s a very hard competition,” she said.
She explained the difficulties of players from such a large representative region coming together to train.
“We’ve got quite a vast distance, from Port Macquarie, Taree, Ballina, Grafton, Gunnedah, and Tamworth, and we go inland as well as along the coast,” she said.
“And we have very little training sessions just due to the vast distance, and it’s very hard for everyone to get there all at once due to the travel.”
q Iona finished the regular season as minor premiers.
q The Northern Eagles Under 16s Girls team.
q Six members of the title-winning Under-14 Boys side attend MacKillop College in Port Macquarie.
Saints go back-to-back
By Jules BARDON
PORT Saints lived up to expectations by securing the Zone League 1 championship against the Macleay Valley Rangers in front of a vocal home crowd at Findlay Park on 27 September.
A dominant secondhalf display from the minor premiers saw them ease home and beat Rangers 3-0, making it two Zone League premierships in as many
years for the hosts.
Rangers, who finished third in the regular season, came into the encounter with high hopes after their dramatic come-from-behind victory away to Lake Cathie the week before in extra time.
The highs of the week before were quickly drowned out early in the grand final, when Josh Gardner’s firsttime finish put the hosts ahead with just five minutes on the clock.
The Rangers responded well, tightening up the midfield and making it a physical encounter for most of the first half.
The Saints still dominated possession, with Rangers relying on their counterattacking ability, which nearly conjured up a late first-half equaliser, though the Rangers winger put it just over the crossbar.
Saints started the second half just as they did the first.
Wauchope Mixed Bowlers
By Marie WINTER
MONDAY 6th October 2025
the social bowlers were on the green at Wauchope Country Club , the first game at twilight for the season.
The lucky winning
marble rink 3 was Sue Greenfield, Ned McKelvey and Jenny Wooster
The lucky losers marble rink 4 was Bob Walker, Carol Higgins and Ian Gabriel.
The jackpot was 4 but rink 2 chose 8 therefore the
jackpot while be carried forward to next week.
The Raffle prizes were picked up by Brian, John and Ned x3
Next Monday names in by 3.30pm and play starts at 4.30pm visitors welcome for a game of social bowls.
Bogie Bandits Golf Results
By Colin EVERINGHAM
TUESDAY 30/09/2025
Number of Players – 25
Game Played –Novelty
Stableford- 18 holes – no drivers allowed, must hit off from ladies tee box.
Winner- John Gillard43 Points (exceptional golf)
2 nd Neil Flatters - 42
Points(on Count Back)
3 rd Warwick Poulton42 Points
4th Col Hutchings - 41 Points
5 th Chas Viner - 40
Points(on Count Back)
6 th Col Everingham40 Points
NTP 4th John Gillard ( Birdie)
NTP 9th Ian Camejo
NTP 11th Pat Daley
NTP 15th Ted Ball
Comboyne to World Cup
the Southern Hemisphere.
“[I’m] going to remember this moment for the rest of my life.”
Luke, 23, was the 2019 recipient of Port MacquarieHastings Council’s Wayne Richards Scholarship.
When he’s not competing around the world for the Australian Giant Factory Off-Road team, he’s at home in Comboyne or training in Tasmania at the Maydena Bike Park - the largest network of gravity terrain in
Luke’s brother Remy is a fellow rider and describes seeing his brother win a World Cup race as “the best moment in my life”.
“I’ve seen everything and Luke’s been through a lot,” he shared.
“He’s sacrificed every other aspect of his life for this and for him to reach the top yesterday (5 October) was crazy.”
Remy’s rush to the finish line to congratulate Luke landed him with a fine from the event organisers.
They threw wave after wave of attack at the tiring Rangers defence, which eventually resulted in the Saints’ second goal from Bailey Lowe.
Rangers were forced to commit men forward to try and halve the deficit, though this resulted in their shape being stretched.
The Saints capitalised, putting the game to bed when Jordan Stevenson scored their third goal.
This topped off a perfect day for the Port Saints Football Club, who also beat South West Rocks 2-1 in the North A (third tier) grand final.
Wauchope Women's Bowling Club
By Julie FRASER
THURSDAY 2/10/25
Major Singles 1 st round results , Wendy Kennedy won over Marie Aitken , Fay Paine won over Julie Fraser, Glenda Elford won over Kathy Sweeney, Julie Samuelson won over Margaret Wallis . Jackpot no. 29 Wendy
Kennedy, lucky losers Were Marie Winter , Simone Thompson Yvonne Carmichael and Heather Bartlett . Raffle Winners were Sally Webber , Marie Winter , Marie Aitken and Ita Walker . Report for Saturday 4/10/25
Winners were Ruth Baker, Marie Winter and Sue Petterson . The losers on the same rink were Yvonne Carmichael , Patricia Fletcher and Glenda Elford . Jackpot no. 43 Karen Simpson . Raffle winners were Glenda Elford , Ruth Baker , Marie Aitken and Lil Allen .
Hastings Ladies Social Golf
By Leonie MULVIHILL
MONDAY 6th October 2025. Game Monthly Medal, Stroke and putts. 36 players.
Division 1: Winner
Carol Gleeson 28 nett
Runner Up Jennifer Dignam 29 nett
Division 2: Winner
Margaret Rock 27 nett
Runner Up Liz Fraser 29 nett c/b
Gladys Harvey 29 nett
Division 3: Winner Pat McNeil 28 nett c/b
Runner Up Barbara Collins 28 nett
Division 4: Winner
Donna Missingham 31 nett
Runner Up Margaret
Friday Afternoon Golfers
By Colin EVERINGHAM
FAG Results for 03 OCT 25
Number of Players: 22 playing on the Front 9 holes 1st Round of Club Championship.
Winner: Colin Blott Nett
Not that the brothers were concerned.
Speaking later to YouTuber Wyn Masters, Luke said he’d pay it if necessary.
“Yes, they fined him, but it was worth it for the moment.”
The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup is made up of multiple rounds held at different locations around the world.
While Luke’s win at Lake Placid represents a career milestone, there’s still another round to go before the overall World Cup series is decided.
35
2nd: Terry McFarland Nett 36
3rd: Neil Clancy Nett 36
36
37
4th: Robert Toone Nett
5th: Tony Owens Nett
Gleave 32 nett
NTP: Barbara Collins 15th hole, Leonie Mulvihill 18th hole
Birdies: Leonie Mulvihill 18th hole
Least putts: Leonie
Mulvihill 14
Lucky numbers: Robyn Cobban and Jude Turk
6th: Bill McMillan Nett
37 NTP 4th Hole Second
Shot: Phil Raraty NTP 9th Hole Second
Shot: Nigel Sellars
Raffle Winner: Col Everingham
q Josh Gardner celebrates with the team after scoring the first goal.
q The team’s premiership photo.
q Luke and Remy’s finish line celebration landed them a fine from event organisers. Photo: @remy.meier.smith.
Immaculately presented
PERFECTLY positioned in a popular pocket of Lake Cathie, this beautifully maintained three bedroom residence combines comfort, space, and lifestyle in one appealing package.
Set on a generous 649m2 block, the home offers a practical floor plan with multiple living zones and a secure all-level yard surrounded by established landscaped gardens.
Step inside to a bright, light-filled interior, with a separate lounge at the front, providing a quiet retreat.
The heart of the home is the open plan living, dining, and kitchen area, where there's also room for a home office or study nook.
The cleverly designed kitchen offers ample bench and cupboard space, perfect for family living.
Offering seamless indooroutdoor integration to the spacious sunroom where you will find another lounge and seating area, the perfect spot for breakfast or for hosting social gatherings, all yearround.
The master suite is privately positioned, complete with walk-in robe and ensuite bathroom, while two additional bedrooms include built-ins and ceiling fans, and are serviced by a spotless main bathroom with skylight and a separate WC. Enjoy the serenity of a sun-drenched, level
Are you feeling dissatisfied with
backyard, low maintenance gardens, water tank and shed, with plenty of room for the kids and pets to play.
Double gated side access that leads to a carport, in addition to the double garage, is perfect for storing a boat, trailer or caravan.
Situated close to Woolworths, specialty stores, family friendly tavern, medical centre and 20 minutes drive to Port Macquarie.
This property ticks all the boxes and more.
Contact Debbi on 0435 677 256 to arrange an inspection.
25 Bounty Ave, Lake Cathie $960,000 - $995,000 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 3 Car
OPINION & LETTERS
On theCouch
DEAR Jasminda,
A mutual friend often offers me job opportunities during social gatherings, but doesn't mention the subject again until the next time we catch up. Should I take these offers seriously and seek further information, or brush them off?
Katie L.
Dear Katie,
Social situations often involve social lubricants. Is your mutual friend half-tanked when these job opportunities are discussed? Are you?
I'd be wary about any work discussions that take
place after multiple rounds of drinks.
In these situations, the mutual friend may be drawn to talents that don't translate to employability skills in the cold light of day.
Does he for example say, ‘you'd be an asset to the workplace’, as you're shouting, 'I reckon I have another Mojito in me’. Then, ‘let's run home; it's only five kilometres'?’
This declaration may scream “Ricky Resilience” when your mutual friend is sloshed, but with a fresh mind, he may instead view you as someone who overpromises and under-delivers (particularly if you have to call an Uber at the halfway mark). Does he ask about your career aspirations after you've performed a rousing acapella version of Aerosmith's Dream On at the monthly Open Mic night?
Again, this self assurance is impressive, but your performative skills may irritate other staff in the open plan office. Alternatively, could he simply be waiting for you to show the same initiative you showed when you encouraged everyone to join in on a Nutbush City Limits dance-off and call him.
In future, ask him to clarify the specifics (including the next stage of the process).
Or, when the evening has reached its inevitable loosey-goosey stage, you could record him reciting the job opportunity (with permission, of course).
When you play the offer back the next day, you may decide that you don't want the position after all.
Jasminda.
Inshore consistency and offshore marlin blitz
By Kate SHELTON
THE Macleay River remains a prime location for flathead enthusiasts, with reports of excellent catches being made throughout the system.
The most successful anglers are primarily using live herring as their bait of choice.
Offshore activity continues to deliver, as kingfish are actively feeding near Fish Rock, Black Rock, and the FAD.
With the seasonal shift to warmer months, there is growing anticipation for the imminent arrival of black marlin further north.
For freshwater anglers, reports last week confirm some great Australian bass were caught in the upper reaches of the Macleay River.
Catch rates in the Camden Haven area have been highly variable.
While a few small tailor have been sighted near the rocks at Bonny Hills, overall success has been limited. Better prospects lie
with luderick and bream, which are showing promise, particularly around the Dunbogan and Crowdy headlands.
Offshore, anglers working the local reefs are finding success with a mixed bag of snapper, pearl perch, and assorted reef species.
Further offshore, the Rowlands area is yielding solid kingfish and samsonfish. Boats fishing wider have even reported surface sightings of striped marlin.
In nearby Lake Cathie, the water is warming up, and the whiting are really starting to increase their activity.
The full moon on Wednesday should also produce some good runs of school prawns this weekend.
The Hastings River region is currently showing the most promise and consistency.
A noticeable increase in whiting numbers suggests an excellent season is on the way.
Productive locations include Limeburners, Blackmans Point, and the
Maria River, where worms, yabbies, and surface lures have been effective.
Bream fishing remains reliable, with decent catches coming from the northern break wall after sunset.
Flathead are well dispersed and numerous, and lure fishing upstream is yielding consistent results.
Improved numbers of mud crabs are also being found, especially within the
deeper upstream holes.
On the beaches, North Shore is the top pick for bream and whiting, while Lighthouse Beach is offering up small tailor and the occasional salmon.
Further upstream, freshwater anglers have been reporting good catches of Australian bass.
Offshore Snapper fishing has been a highlight, with quality fish caught on soft
Inconvenient truths about ocean pool
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE proposed ocean pool at Oxley Beach has been the subject of recent stories and advertising in NOTA.
While it might be nice to have an ocean pool, the plan involves costly new infrastructure along a magnificent coastline that already offers three patrolled beaches for swimming.
The ocean pool group has $4.5 million in federal government funds invested and earning interest.
They should direct their efforts towards getting approval for the project, but be aware, state government policy is sensibly about not putting infrastructure in harm’s way.
An ocean pool would be expensive for our council to maintain.
Councils everywhere are under cost-shifting pressure and this would mean less funding for other projects we really do need, e.g. a new aquatic centre and more footpaths.
Further, we do not yet have a current coastal management plan, surely a prerequisite before approving an ocean pool.
It is extremely unwise to build expensive heavy infrastructure right down on the beach in the era of climate change, meaning more severe storms and a slow but certain sea level rise which at current rates of 5mm p.a. will result in at least a metre by 2050.
Just imagine the extent of sand excavation
and damage around and beneath the pool that higher sea levels, an intense storm and a king tide all coming at once will do.
Finally, the pool would be in shade in winter, another inconvenient truth about this project.
Who wants to swim in cold water shaded from the sun by Flagstaff Hill? I rest my case.
Regards, Harry CREAMER, Port Macquarie.
plastics off Lighthouse and Point Plomer.
While mahi mahi provided good sport at the Port Macquarie FAD midweek, the weekend bite was noticeably slower.
Additionally, deeper reefs off Point Plomer are
holding a few kingfish, which are being taken on live bait and jigs.
Over the long weekend local gamefishing anglers reported another great few days of striped marlin activity with many catching their first marlin.
Workers are an afterthought
DEAR News Of The Area,
I HAVE been disappointed to see workers like me who may well lose our jobs because of the Great Koala National Park be treated like an afterthought.
No questions have been asked to check the government’s claim they have a fair package for workers. No research seems to have been done by journalists to see if this
package is comparable to what has been paid in other forestry changes.
It is sad to see government lines repeated with no checking.
I think most people would want workers losing their jobs to have a real future.
The tiny government pay offer does not do that.
Regards, Bodhi MOY, Laurieton.
Carpe diem,
q Indi Garvey with her impressive 83.5kg striped marlin! Landing a fish of this size on a 10kg line is a phenomenal effort.
q Port Macquarie Game Fishing President Matt Hobbs with a striped marlin just before successfully tagging and releasing it.
SUDOKU
PORT MACQUARIE
House for Sale
FLYNNS Beach. Professionally renovated. New kitchen, timber floors, 2 bedroom, 2 bathrooms. $288,000 0419 989 788
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BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
MOVIE: MRS HARRIS GOES TO PARIS
SEVEN, 8.30pm, PG (2022)
The third film adaptation of the 1958 novel by Paul Gallico is an utter cinematic delight. The great Lesley Manville (pictured) is perfectly cast as the determined and good-natured house cleaner, who’s intent on getting herself a Christian Dior dress. This of course means going on a trip to the City of Lights, where her unwavering spirit charms the uptight, haute couture elite. An inspired supporting cast including Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson and Jason Isaacs rounds out a superb production. Striking just the right balance, Mrs Harris Goes to Paris is most certainly a trip worth taking.
FRIDAY, October 10
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T is asked to investigate the murder of a doctor and her family when they are found dead on their living room sofa. 9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson. 9.50 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R)
10.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 11.00 ABC Late News. 11.15 Silent Witness. (Mal, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
TUESDAY BUMP
NBN, 8.35pm
If you’re just now catching up on this quality homegrown drama, welcome to the chaotic, complicated lives of the Hernández and Chalmers-Davis clans. There’s five seasons – and a forthcoming Christmas movie – on Stan, but Nine is taking free-to-air viewers back to where it all began. Last week, we met ambitious teenager Oly (Nathalie Morris, pictured) on the most extreme day of her life – the day the schoolgirl delivered a surprise baby and everything changed. An honourable mention goes to Claudia Karvan as Oly’s mum Angie, who is the heart and soul of this series.
WEDNESDAY
THE IDEA OF AUSTRALIA
SBS, 7.30pm
Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 1. Practice session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars
Jeopardy!
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (R)
8.25 Lost Temples Of Cambodia. (PG, R) 9.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGa)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (MA15+av)
11.45 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 3.05 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R) 4.05 The Wheelhouse. (Mals, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. A look around a luxury home on the Gold Coast.
8.30 MOVIE: Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris. (2022, PGl) An ordinary woman’s dream of owning a Christian Dior gown leads her on a Parisian adventure. Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson.
11.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal, R)
11.30 GetOn Extra.
12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PGl, R) 1.00 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
Australia, where does the myth end and the truth begin?” So asks acclaimed actor Rachel Griffiths (pictured) in the trailer for this intriguing four-part series that questions how Australians see themselves and their future. The first instalment dives into the idea that we live on the land of a ‘fair go’. It’s a longheld belief that we live in an egalitarian society, but is it actually true when there’s a growing gap between the rich and poor? Among the pioneering Aussies who share their views over four episodes are Grace Tame, Rachel Perkins, Ray Martin and Craig Foster.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: Beneath The Waves. (Premiere, PG)
8.40 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022, Mal, R) The life of Elvis Presley, from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950s. Austin Butler, Tom Hanks.
11.40 Next Stop.
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Great Australian Detour. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 Dog House. (PGa) A terrified cockapoo arrives in a bad state. 8.30 The Brighter Side. (Final) The team explores fresh paths to home ownership and shares tips to stay safe from scams. Adam Liaw cooks a curry. 9.00 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 10.00
SATURDAY, October 11
11.20 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PG)
8.25 75 Years At Longleat.
9.20 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication. (PGa, R)
10.20 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.15 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Msv, R)
2.45 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
3.45 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.45 Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Selkie. Continued. (2000, PG) 7.05 The Movie Show. 7.40 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 9.30 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 11.20 Master Gardener. (2022, M) 1.20pm Lions For Lambs. (2007, M)
SUNDAY, October 12
6.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through The Alps. (Final, PG)
ABC News. 7.30 The Assembly. (Ml)
Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal)
The Following Events Are Based On A Pack Of Lies. (M)
Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) 10.35 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R) 11.05 MOVIE: In My Blood It Runs. (2019, M, R)
Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)
Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R) 3.30 The Art Of... (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. (Return) 8.15 Crongton. 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.05 Speechless. 10.25 Merlin.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World. (Premiere, PGa)
8.30 King And Conqueror. (Premiere, Mlv) 9.30 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (PG, R)
10.25 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG, R)
11.25 The Real Mo Farah. (PGa, R) 12.35 Gloriavale: New Zealand’s Secret Cult. (Ma, R) 2.10 Tough Trains. (PGav, R) 3.10 Welcome To My Farm. (R) 4.10 Urban Conversion. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
VICELAND (31)
Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.50 History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Suranne Jones Investigating Witch Trials. (Premiere) 9.30 Uncanny. 10.40
Lara. (2019, PG, German) 8.00 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 10.00 Metronom. (2022, M, Romanian) 11.55 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 2.55pm What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 4.45 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 6.35 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 8.30 True Grit. (2010, M) 10.35 Traffic. (2000, MA15+) 1.20am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG) Presented by Chrissie Swan.
8.00 MOVIE: Die Hard: With A Vengeance. (1995, Mlv, R) A New York detective tries to stop a mad bomber who is holding the city to ransom. Bruce Willis, Samuel L Jackson. 10.30 MOVIE: Ambulance. (2022, MA15+av, R) Jake Gyllenhaal. 1.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout. Replay.
3.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Garage 41. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Dipper’s
Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout. 6.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Support races and warm up. From Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, NSW. 10.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Build up and Race.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger. 8.45 The Rise And Fall Of Kings Cross. (Premiere, M)
10.25 24 Hours In Police Custody: A Knife Through The Heart. (Madlv, R)
11.25 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Moorhouse Horrors. (Mav, R)
12.40 Miniseries: The Victim. (Malv, 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 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride. (1991, G, R)
9.35 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005, Ms, R)
11.35 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R)
1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. A woman tries to sell her mother’s retro home. 8.30 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) Ambulance crews attend to a man who has been found unresponsive on the roadside. 9.45 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 10.45 The Gilded Age. (PGa, R) Gladys’s desired beau
Hours of Fuji. H’lights. 1.30 Soccer. English Premier League. Chelsea v Liverpool. Replay. 3.30 Ski Rescue Down Under. 4.30 Hot Wheels. 5.30 MOVIE: Short Circuit. (1986, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Police
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 A Killer Makes A Call: Grindr Killer. (MA15+a) 11.15 Mobsters: John Gotti. (Madv) 12.10 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R) 1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG)
10.30 Seinfeld. 11.00 Hot Wheels. Noon Soccer. English Premier League. Newcastle United v Nottingham Forest. 2.00 Surfing Aust. 3.00 Big Rigs Of Oz. 3.30 Project Impossible. 4.30 Young Sheldon. 5.00 Dinner With The
MONDAY, October 13
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Supertato. 7.00 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Gladiators. 9.35 The Crystal Maze. 10.25 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits: Dream Teams. (Premiere)
8.30 King And Conqueror. (Mlv)
9.25 Sydney’s Super Tunnel. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (PG)
11.30 Mayflies. (Madl, R) 12.35 The Allegation. (MA15+av, R) 2.35 Tough Trains. (PG, R) 3.35 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R) 4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.00 The Rookie. (Mav) Three teenage girls are stabbed. 10.00 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) The team searches for a missing muralist.
11.00 S.W.A.T. (Mav) 12.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (Premiere, MA15+s)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Finding
You. Continued. (2020, PG) 8.10 Meek’s Cutoff. (2010, PG) 10.05 Girls Will Be Girls. (2024, M, Hindi) 12.15pm Knight Of Cups. (2015, M) 2.25 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 4.15 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 6.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 8.30 Lawless. (2012, MA15+) 10.40 The Last Night Of Amore. (2023, MA15+) 1.05am Traffic. (2000, MA15+) 3.45 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, October 14
Grand Designs. (PG, R) 1.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG)
8.30 Tell Me What You Really Think. (Premiere, M)
9.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 The Point. (R) 12.05 Safe Home. (Mal, R) 1.00 The Unusual Suspects. (Mls, R) 2.00 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R) 3.10 Tough Trains. (PGa, R) 4.10 Urban Conversion. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 Murder In A Small Town. (M) Cassandra assists a local unhoused man.
Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv)
The Block. (PGl)
Murder Down Under. (MA15+adv)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 The Way. (2010, PG) 8.30 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 10.20 True Grit. (2010, M) 12.25pm The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 2.55 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 4.35 Finding You. (2020, PG) 6.50 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 8.30 A Fistful Of Dollars. (1964, MA15+) 10.25 The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 12.30am Lawless. (2012, MA15+) 2.40 Late Programs.
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DRAMA (51)
WEDNESDAY, October 15
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 To Be Advised. 9.20 Teen Titans Go! 9.45 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Idea Of Australia. (Premiere)
8.30 Great British Train Journeys From Above.
9.30 Code Of Silence. (Mlv)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 I Am Scrooge. (Premiere, Mal)
11.45 Freezing Embrace. (Malv, R)
1.25 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R)
2.30 Tough Trains. (PGa, R)
3.25 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 RFDS. (Ma)
8.30 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu. (M) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) Experts share advice on living well. 10.30 Chicago Fire. (Ma) 11.30 The Agenda Setters. 12.30 Imposters. (Madlsv, R)
1.30 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 A Current Affair.
The Block. (PGl) 8.40 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mav) 9.40 The Grand Tour. (Ml) 11.10 9News Late. 11.40 Resident Alien. (Return, Malv) 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
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6am Bonneville.
Continued. (2006, PG) 6.35 The Movie Show. 7.10
The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 8.40 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 10.20 Like Water For Chocolate. (1992, M, Spanish) 12.20pm Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 2.20 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PG) 4.10 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, PG) 6.40 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 8.30 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 11.00 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, October 16
4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.45 Maddie And Triggs. 7.55
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 24 Hours In ALDI. (R)
8.25 Scandinavia With Simon Reeve.
9.30 Blue Lights.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Davos 1917. (Mv)
12.05 The Head. (Malv, R)
1.40 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PG, R)
2.45 Tough Trains. (PGa, R)
3.40 Urban Conversion. (R)
4.45 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. (PGa)
8.30 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (MA15+ls) Jim Jefferies has a question for the ‘plusses’ of the world.
9.30 The Amazing Race. (PG) Hosted by Phil Keoghan. 11.00 7NEWS: The Balibo Five – 50 Years On. (R) 11.30 Gatecrashers. 12.30 Life. (Malsv, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00
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Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 Amazing Animal Friends. 10.10 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.45 Late Programs.
WorldWatch. 5.50 The Food That Built The World. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Patient. 9.50 MOVIE: The Lost Boys. (1987, M) 11.35 The Bloody Decade. 1.35am WWE Legends. 3.05 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 The Rap Game UK. 1.35 From North Korea, With Love. 2.30 Bamay. 2.55 Insight. 3.55 News. 4.00 WorldWatch. 6.00 Our Medicine. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island Specials. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.40am Conversations. 2.20 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon My Kitchen Rules. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Room For Improvement. 2.30 House Of Wellness. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Inspector George Gently. 10.45
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6am Whisky
Galore. (2016, PG) 7.55 The Movie Show. 8.30 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 10.10 The Grump: In Search Of An Escort. (2022, M, Finnish) 12.15pm For A Few Dollars More. (1965, M) 2.40 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 4.10 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 6.15
Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 8.30 The Good, The Bad And The Ugly. (1966, M) 11.50 Late Programs.
2.00 Golden Girls. 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 Seinfeld. 8.30 To Be Advised.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT.
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
By Sue STEPHENSON
LUKE Meier-Smith said he couldn’t find the words to describe how he felt after winning his first downhill mountain biking World Cup - but he summed it up when sharing his victory with fans.
“From a kid living on an avocado farm near a small town called Comboyne to a DH World Cup winner!” The current Australian downhill mountain bike champion produced a perfect run at the weekend on the new Whiteface Mountain course at Lake Placid in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains.
“Words can’t describe this moment,” he shared.
“All the ups and downs over the years left me doubting if I’d ever achieve this moment, and here we are.
“It’s going to take some time for this to sink in and I can’t thank my whole team and everyone in my corner enough.
CONTINUED Page 10
q Comboyne’s Luke Meier-Smith at the top of the winners’ podium in Lake Placid. Photo: @svenmartinphoto via Giant Bicycles.