q Blake Steep celebrates after scoring a try for the Roosters in the NRL Round 16 match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Photo: AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts.
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Rotary honours our heroes
By Pauline CAIN
ROTARY Club of Port Macquarie West and the Rotary E-Club of District 9650 joined forces on 15 July to host an evening honouring seven representatives from the region’s emergency services.
All emergency services were invited to nominate a local member who had “gone above and beyond”, recognising their dedication and commitment to serving the Port MacquarieHastings community.
Receiving honours on the night were Michael Brumby (State Emergency Service), Senior Constable Stephen Mallam (Coffs Mid Coast Highway Patrol), Nicole Crowe (Camden Haven Surf Life Saving Club), Rob Britten (Port Macquarie Marine
Rescue), Mitchel Atherton (Australia Lifeguard Service), Senior Constable David Ulherr (Mid North Coast Police Command), and Benjamin Monaghan (Port Macquarie Ambulance Service).
“The evening gave Rotary the opportunity to say thank you to our emergency services,” said program convenor Barry Hacker, a former Rotary District Governor.
The awards evening, held at the Port City Bowling Club, was attended by members from the emergency services, Rotarians and their partners.
The event was initially planned for May and postponed due to the extreme weather event.
The rescheduled evening allowed the community to thank local emergency services for
State Emergency
their response, support and cleanup following the devastating floods.
Seventy guests witnessed the presentation of certificates in the presence
GOLDEN GLOVES
FROM Page 1
for the top spot in the Under 19s 70kg Category D Division.
His coach and father Kevin Rayment was nothing short of astounded by Harley’s performance.
“It was pretty impressive,” Kevin told News Of The Area.
“First fight, people just go out crazy a lot of the time, but I told him not to do that and he followed instructions.
“But when I told him to put his foot on the pedal, he did exactly what I asked.
“He didn’t stop punching. He left it all in the ring.”
Although Kevin enjoys playing the role of coach, it’s the father in him that bursts with pride.
for
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this Printed Edition available
“I’m always proud of all of our boxers but, I mean, when it’s your son,
you are especially,” said Kevin.
The Golden Gloves tournament was held from 14-19 July with more than 750 competitors fighting in various categories and divisions, with matches determined by age, weight and experience level.
This inaugural event marked Australia’s firstever international Golden Gloves tournament hosted at premier amateur boxing venue Eagles Sports Complex in Mansfield.
“Anyone can enter,” said Kevin.
“There were teams from India, Nauru, Fiji, New Zealand and various countries around the Pacific.”
Although ultimately winning on points, Harley’s victory didn’t come easy, with the teenager going down in the first round and needing to lock in to get
the job done.
“The first round was a bit cagey,” Kevin said.
“I told him to feel his way in, don’t go all guns blazing.”
With the first round done and dusted, Harley had to dig deep.
“He went all out; the other guy was just on the ropes the whole time,” said Kevin.
“Round 3 he did exactly the same thing before his tank started to empty.”
For Harley, getting into the ring was nerve-wracking but an experience that he settled into quickly.
“Getting in there I was a bit nervous but once I threw that first punch, I was rock ‘n’ rolling,” said Harley.
Kevin believes his son has all the key attributes to go a long way in the sport.
“He’s got a massive
of Mayor Adam Roberts, Police Chaplain Father Paul Gooley and Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer.
The presentations were made by the
heart. An extremely big ticker,” said Kevin
“He trains hard… and Harley’s got good stamina too.”
Kevin is suitably qualified to make that assessment, having been appointed by Boxing Australia NSW - alongside local coach Mick Eggins - as a Coaching and Development Coordinator for the Mid and Far North Coast regions.
He later represented Central Coast Boxing as a coach for Team NSW at the 2017 Elite Australian Championships. Port Macquarie Boxing Club members Alex (Ragnar) James and Kai Wakley also competed at the Golden Gloves tournament.
Alex came away with a loss albeit going the distance, while Kai bowed out in the first round.
• Morning tea on arrival.
• Xmas themed Lunch & Desert.
• Interactive entertainment.
~Santa may even make a special visit!~
President of the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West, Brendan Seed and Immediate Past President of the Rotary E-Club of District 9650, John Oxley.
q John Oxley, Immediate Past President Rotary E-Club of District 9650; Benjamin Monaghan, Ambulance Service; Senior Constable David Ulherr, Port Macquarie Police; Mitchel Atherton, Australian Lifeguard Service; Michael Brumby,
Service; Nicole Crowe, Camden Haven Surf Life Saving Club; Rob Britten, Port Macquarie Marine Rescue; Brendan Seed, President Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West. Photo: supplied.
q Harley won the U19s 70kg Category D division. Photo: supplied.
Tobacco legislation to be introduced next month
THE NSW Coalition will introduce its proposed Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Stopping Illicit Tobacco) Bill 2025 when Parliament resumes next month.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer said the legislation could see people who sell illegal tobacco and vapes be jailed for up to seven years.
“The increased activity involving the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes is causing widespread concern throughout our community and people are fed up that it has been allowed to not only continue but to grow in massive proportions,” he said.
“You only have to watch the news on TV to see the fire bombing of shops as the tobacco turf wars rage across the state and throughout Australia.
“As soon as police close down the illegal businesses, another one opens the next day which is extremely frustrating for police.”
Mr Dwyer said illegal tobacco is “flooding” Mid North Coast communities.
“The proposed Legislation by the NSW Liberals and Nationals will introduce tough new penalties for selling illegal tobacco including seven year prison sentences and $1.5 million fines for serious offences,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Whilst landlords will be empowered to end leases if their tenant is found to be selling illegal tobacco in NSW, penalties for landlords who knowingly permit their premises to be used for the sale of illegal tobacco will be enforced.
“Under the proposed new laws, there will be implementing closure orders for businesses that are found to sell illegal tobacco in NSW.”
A parliamentary inquiry was established on 7 May to report on the illegal tobacco trade in New South Wales.
Among a broad remit, the committee will inquire into links between organised crime syndicates and tobacconists, and the utilisation of money laundering schemes by
tobacconists.
The inquiry will also explore the impact of the illegal tobacco trade on small businesses and communities in regional NSW, and consider the introduction of legal protections for landlords who lease to tobacconists.
The NSW Government’s new tobacco licensing scheme came into force on 1 July, meaning retailers and wholesalers who wish to sell tobacco, or nontobacco smoking products, now must apply for a licence to do so.
Applicants are required to complete an online application, provide a recent criminal records check and pay a yearly licence fee.
New penalties have also been introduced for anyone caught selling illegal tobacco or vaping products without a valid licence.
The maximum penalty for individuals is $11,000 for a first offence, and $44,000 for a second or subsequent offence. The maximum fine for a corporation is $220,000.
Rookie’s rapid rise in the NRL
FROM Page 1
experiences and under the guidance of his junior coaches, including Chris Hanlon and Mick Guildmore, it wasn’t long before Blake’s talent caught the attention of scouts.
Gaining representative selection provided Blake with increased opportunities but also posed greater challenges for the young star and his family.
“When I was only 13 or 14 I was part of the Sydney Roosters Academy and I would travel down once a week to the Central Coast for two years,” said Blake.
“That one night a week was everything to me at that time.
“It was a big day but I knew that this is what I had to do if I wanted to take a step further.”
In his final years of schooling Blake gained a scholarship to The Scots College in Sydney.
However in Year 11 he was hit with a significant setback in the form of an ACL injury.
“When I first got told by Robbo (Trent Robinson) I was super excited and super nervous,” said Blake.
“But at the same time I knew this is what all those moments beforehand, such as moving away from family and my injury, had led up to.
“I knew it was my time and I was ready to step over the white line and play.”
Reflecting on his NRL debut, Blake recalls a pivotal moment.
“My first tackle was on Jason Taumalolo,” he said.
“He is one of those big guys, a very big boy, who is known for being an absolute beast and the tackle could
have gone either way and possibly end up on his highlight reel.
“It was a very cool moment.”
As a rising NRL star Blake understands the importance of inspiring the next generation of regional athletes.
“You need to take every opportunity that is presented to you, even if it is out of your comfort zone,” he said.
“Don’t worry about contracts or what it looks like, just take every opportunity which comes along that helps your development,” he offered as advice.
Despite these obstacles, Blake persevered and with the support of his family and the Roosters, he made his first grade debut in Round 13 of the 2024 NRL season.
q Supporting the next generation of potential NRL stars. Photo: supplied.
Residents fed up with nature strip neglect
By Rikki WALLER
FROM Blueberry Lane to Park Street, a local resident has called on Mayor Adam Roberts to take a good look at the current state of Port Macquarie’s roadside nature strips and roundabouts.
Aged in their 70s, Barry Dowse and his wife have lived in Port Macquarie for over 20 years.
Barry, who lives on Blueberry Lane, contacted Council to raise concerns
about areas surrounding Hastings River Drive, between Aston and Park streets.
The roundabout where Findlay Avenue and Blueberry Lane meet through Hastings River Drive is desolate and adorned by only three trees, while the footpath near Blueberry Lane is home to tufts of weeds popping out amongst dry gravel and dead leaves.
When Barry received a response from the Mayor’s Executive Assistant advising that the “Mayor is aware of the area in question” and that his comments had been respectfully noted, he felt dismissed.
“They have a parks department, I would like to see them do something [and] also ongoing maintenance,” Barry said.
“I feel let down by our current Council and it would not take much for them to improve.”
A Port-Macquarie Hastings Council spokesperson acknowledged Barry’s concerns while sharing that the process of having roadsides and nature strips tidied up and maintained is determined by an outdated schedule.
“Port MacquarieHastings Council’s Parks and Gardens maintenance currently operates under a maintenance schedule established in 2012,” the spokesperson said.
“This schedule outlines responsibilities across the region for maintaining sports fields, parks, reserves, and associated gardens.
“Over the years, increased service demand, community expectations, and continued growth across the local government area have highlighted the need for a revised approach.
“While the level of resourcing has remained
Mustering Growth at Rollands Plains
RURAL Aid’s Mustering Growth program is continuing to grow, with Rollands Plains Upper Public School set to benefit from the wellbeing initiative in September.
relatively static, the number of parks, roadside gardens, and public spaces has continued to grow, along with expectations around how these spaces are presented and maintained.”
Council told NOTA it is in the final stages of developing a new draft maintenance schedule.
“This approach will better reflect current conditions and priorities and provide a clearer and more balanced standard moving forward,” the spokesperson said.
“The updated approach aims to ensure consistency across the network, with an increased focus not just on mowing, but on all aspects of public space maintenance, including roadside gardens.”
Roadside garden maintenance is typically scheduled during the cooler months.
This seasonal approach allows the maintenance
team to focus on the high mowing demand that occurs during the warmer months, while also reducing the risk of traffic delays during peak visitor periods.
“Our Council maintenance team is responsible for maintaining a large and growing area,” the spokesperson said.
“All maintenance is prioritised in accordance with Council’s parks hierarchy and available resources.
“While roadside garden maintenance does require additional investment, particularly in signage and traffic safety, it remains a valued part of our long-term service delivery.”
Any member of the community who wishes to report an issue regarding services or maintenance of local parks and gardens can do so via Council’s website at pmhc.nsw.gov.au/Report-anissue.
tools and support available to help them feel strong and connected.”
Mustering Growth helps rural students better understand and manage their emotional wellbeing, especially in the face of challenges unique to life in the bush.
leave lasting mental and emotional impacts, often in communities where access to mental health services is limited.
For many children in rural and remote areas, events like floods, bushfires and drought
The program teaches practical strategies to build resilience, improve communication, and support positive mental health in and out of the classroom.
Through interactive sessions, students learn to express their emotions, support their peers and seek help when they need it.
“Programs like Mustering Growth are essential in helping kids process the emotional toll of living through repeated natural disasters,” said Myf Pitcher, Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager.
“We want young people in rural areas to know they’re not alone, and that there are
Principals from participating schools have welcomed the initiative, reporting increased confidence and emotional awareness among students who’ve taken part.
q The footpath near Blueberry Lane. Photo: supplied.
Flood funding shortages on the Mid North Coast
By Sis HIGGINS
SMALL businesses across the Mid North Coast have been left behind in the wake of the devastating May floods, according to local business leaders who say the NSW Government has failed to deliver critical support.
Team Taree (Taree Business Chamber) and the Macleay Business Representative Group are jointly calling on the NSW Premier to act urgently by extending Category D disaster relief funding to the region’s small businesses.
“We’re not asking for special treatment,” said a spokesperson for Team Taree.
“We’re asking for parity.
“When roads are cut, supply chains disrupted, and properties [are] underwater, small businesses suffer just
‘We
By Pauline CAIN
as much as farms do and yet the NSW Government continues to treat our sector as an afterthought.”
While Category D support has been announced for primary producers, the groups say that decision “blatantly ignores the equally severe damage suffered by hundreds of local businesses, many of whom remain without access to the financial relief they urgently need.”
They are particularly frustrated by the government’s refusal to submit an application to the federal government that would extend the funding to small businesses, raising grant caps to $50,000 to reflect the true cost of recovery.
“With the stringent guidelines already in place
regarding eligibility, many small businesses impacted may not even be eligible should the Government grant Category D funding.
“Why is the Premier so reluctant to show support for our communities?”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said it’s a betrayal to every small business owner who has done the right thing and is now being ignored.
“By capping the data at $5000, they’re rigging the numbers,” he said.
“They’re cooking the books to downplay the scale of the devastation in our communities and it’s nothing short of dishonest and deceptive.
“The Premier and the Treasurer are clearly blocking this request.
“Premier Minns is happy to turn up for a photo op after
a disaster, but when it comes time to deliver real, practical support, he vanishes.
“The Minister’s silence is costing jobs, hurting families, and pushing small businesses to the brink of closure.”
The NSW Opposition has repeatedly called for $50,000 Category D funding to be
made available to help small businesses get back on their feet.
They are also calling on the Premier to engage directly with Mid North Coast business communities to understand the compounding impacts of the floods.
Business leaders say the
have not forgotten you’
THE Flood Recovery Coordinator for the Hunter and Mid North Coast is encouraging farmers and other flood-affected residents to continue to seek assistance.
“We understand it is difficult but it is important to register and complete
the documentation, so that if further funding becomes available applicants will be automatically notified,” Dave Owens said.
“Recovery is a slow process and our primary concern is for the mental health of our farmers and residents.
”I am determined to make sure this happens.”
Approximately 13,000 people have attended recovery centres and assistant points since the catastrophic flood events in May.
“It has been massive - the size of it and what has been achieved has been fantastic.
“We have not forgotten about you.
”We are here for the long
term, not the short term.”
Mr Owens said that currently:
- 53 households are in emergency care and will need long term assistance
- 47,000 people have applied for personal hardship assistance and 700 applications have been received from small businesses and not for profit
time for photo opportunities and empty promises has passed.
They argue the government must take decisive action to support the small businesses that form the backbone of their local economies.
organisations.
- 25,000 tonnes of flood waste (equivalent to 1800 trucks) has been sent to temporary waste
- 960 cubic metres has been removed from the shoreline
- 700 silage bales and 900 chemical containers have been collected.
The Flood Recovery Centre in Taree is still operational for another month, however recovery assistance, which provides
outreach into communities, will continue.
“We have held two online seminars for 200 small businesses with a step through process - a good step forward.”
Service NSW has emailed over 200,000 businesses across 19 impacted local government areas.
Impacted businesses have been able to access an initial $5000 with low documentation and another $20,000 with receipts.
q Michael Kemp MP addresses the funding shortage. Photo: supplied.
q Flood Recovery Coordinator Dave Owens with Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffins, at the Wingham Food Hub. Photo: supplied
q Dave Owens speaking with farmers at Gloucester. Photo: supplied
q Dave Owens speaking with farmers at Gloucester. Photo: supplied.
Port Macquarie shines in tourism awards
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT MACQUARIE region
tourism operators are making their mark, with four local businesses named finalists
in the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards.
Port Macquarie Museum, Soul Surf School, Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats, and the Reflections
Cadet Cup have all earned places among the 33 finalists across 11 categories in this year’s program, delivered by Destination North Coast in partnership with the NSW
The awards recognise excellence, innovation, and resilience across the tourism sector, showcasing standout experiences from
luxury accommodation and adventure tours to events and heritage attractions.
“These businesses exemplify excellence and ambition in a competitive tourism landscape,” said NSW Tourism Association CEO Natalie Godward.
“Being named a finalist is a significant achievement - each has demonstrated a deep commitment to quality, innovation, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences.”
Destination North Coast General Manager Michael Thurston added, “These finalists are not only creating memorable visitor experiences, they’re setting benchmarks for industry best practice across the country.”
Port Macquarie Museum has been recognised for its ongoing commitment to preserving and presenting the town’s rich history through engaging, modern displays.
Soul Surf School earned its finalist spot for its fun and inclusive surf lessons, offering unforgettable ocean experiences for families and adventurers of all ages.
Positive Energy Adventures & Retreats impressed judges with its immersive nature-based wellness experiences, including guided walks, kayaking, and transformative retreats designed to inspire and rejuvenate.
Rounding out the list, Bonny Hills’ Reflections Cadet Cup was recognised for its high-energy event that brings together young surfers while promoting beach safety and youth development.
Winners will be announced at the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards Gala on Thursday 31 July in Byron Bay, following the North Coast Tourism Symposium.
As part of the awards program, all finalists gain access to mentoring and feedback to help them refine their offering and prepare for the next stage, the NSW Tourism Awards, where they’ll compete against the state’s best later this year.
Winners will move on to represent New South Wales at the national awards in 2026.
‘Castaway’ belt returned to Bonny Hills maker
Let’s create a
By Bill HARROW
A LEATHER belt gifted to one of the cast and crew of the ABC TV series “Castaway” has been returned to its maker, Ross Bennett of Bonny Hills.
Castaway was a 1974 Australian drama about a group of shipwreck survivors on an island in the Pacific in the 1840’s.
While the first episode was filmed on Narrabeen Beach in Sydney, subsequent episodes were filmed at Miners Beach
Port Macquarie with rainforest scenes captured at Sea Acres.
Other scenes were filmed on Shelly and Town beaches.
Upon conclusion of
Castaway, the production company engaged “Little Vinegar Leather Works” of Bonny Hills to produce leather belts as mementoes for the cast and crew.
Recently, one belt was returned for inclusion in the archived collection entitled “Remembering Castaway - 50-years on”.
The collection has been drawn together by Mike Dodkin, a former National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) officer.
It celebrates the release of the 13-episode drama series, which was filmed in 1973 and screened on Australian television in 1974.
The collection will be
held in Port Macquarie Library.
For the 50th anniversary of the series, a reunion was held in October of last year at The Glasshouse.
It brought together Director Frank Arnold, Oscar and BAFTA winning cinematographer John Seale, and indigenous actors Gary Morris and Graham Quinlan.
The public was treated to watching episode five,
“The Other Side of The Island”.
The return of the belt has brought back many memories for all involved.
Tourism Association.
q The Bonny Hills-made belt gifted to the cast and crew of Castaway.
q Mike Dodkin and Ross Bennett with the Castaway belt.
q Port Macquarie Museum on Clarence Street. Photo: Facebook.
q Positive Energy Lord Howe Island Retreat led by Belinda Johnson and Peta Alexopoulos. Photo: Facebook.
q Reflections Cadet Cup at Bonny Hills attracts the crowds, including professional surfer Callum Robson. Photo: Facebook.
IN THE GALLERY
By Sis HIGGINS
PORT MACQUARIE
photographer Tom Sheppard
has taken out first place in the Australian Landscape –Print
wins regional photo comp
Competition, held locally on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July.
Sheppard’s awardwinning image, “Googik Dreaming”, was part of a strong field of entries from photographic clubs across regional NSW.
The event, hosted by the Port Macquarie Panthers Photographic Club, attracted more than 70 delegates for a weekend of exhibitions, workshops and awards.
“We’ve had such a strong showing from photographers across the region,” said Tom, who is also club president.
All competition entries were judged in advance by a panel from the Federation
of Camera Clubs, with images sent to Sydney for professional review.
“If you get an artistic judge, they'll look at it through artistic eyes,” Tom said.
“If you get someone who's a compositional and technique-based judge, they'll look at it that way... all judges are different.”
In a first for the event, a People’s Choice Award was also introduced, giving attendees the chance to vote for their favourite print on display.
“The photographers didn’t know it was happening, but we thought it was a great way to involve the public,”
Tom said.
“And yes, the award was a very handsome one!”
Also exhibiting was Bronwyn Ellis from Taree Camera Club, who shared her passion for photographing remote landscapes.
“I do it for me,” she said.
“It’s where my passion lies, in the polar regions.
“Photography is good for the soul.”
Sharryn Sykes, from the Hastings region, praised the sense of connection at the event.
“We come from different clubs and places, but when we’re here, we’re all photographers first.
“It’s inspiring.”
By Kate SHELTON
LAST weekend saw the successful launch of the first-ever Annual Camden Haven Snapper Classic 2025, proudly presented by Plasmann Soft Plastics and Fishin4Pics.
Despite challenging blustery winds on both Saturday and Sunday, 29 teams, totalling 85 anglers, hit the water with high spirits.
The event focused not just on the catch, but on fostering community, creating memories and promoting sustainable fishing.
The turnout and sportsmanship were exceptional, with 72 snapper caught and released in total.
A standout performance came from Team Mid Coast Marine, who dominated with 296 points, upgrading their entire bag on Sunday.
Shaun from Team Hard Top landed the Largest Snapper of the Classic, an impressive 84cm to the fork, released in honour of local North Haven legend
The Camden Haven area is truly shining for anglers.
Beach fishers are having a blast, with exciting encounters with salmon schools often joined by a few tailor.
Small metal lures have been the go-to for these hard-fighting fish.
Both Dunbogan and North Haven are consistently producing good numbers of bream and whiting.
If you're after that first ever school mulloway, Lake Cathie remains the top spot.
Offshore, snapper numbers are strong across most reefs, with plenty of "plate-sized" fish being caught, along with larger specimens off Lake Cathie.
Soft plastics and traditional anchoring with burley are proving highly effective for snapper.
Further offshore, anglers are reeling in trag and kingfish.
The increasing presence of slimy mackerel suggests the striped marlin season might be just around the
corner.
The Port Macquarie area continues to impress, particularly with its reliable bream fishing from the rocks.
From the Lighthouse in Port Macquarie all the way to Point Plomer, anglers are finding consistent success.
For more local spots, Rocky's and Miners are yielding good results.
Prawns and mullet strips are the preferred baits, but worms and pipis are also proving effective. Luderick numbers are holding steady, with Shelley's and Point Plomer offering consistent opportunities.
While tailor fishing has been a bit hit or miss, a few quality fish are still being caught.
Mulloway enthusiasts are having some luck around the Lighthouse, using both bait and lures.
Offshore conditions have been up and down but local anglers have reported catches of snapper, kingfish, and the odd leatherjacket.
Overall, the Mid North Coast region is experiencing a highly productive fishing period.
No matter your preference of beach, estuary, or offshore.
There are ample opportunities for a successful day on the water.
While the weekend forecast currently looks a bit below average, let's hope it improves as the weekend approaches.
"Squeak."
The overall winning image of the competition went to “Sands of Oman” by Fiona Grosse (Lismore
Camera Club), while C.ex Coffs Camera Club was named Overall Winning Club based on aggregate results.
q Tom Sheppard out and about capturing photo opps.
Photo: supplied.
q Tom Sheppard’s winning photo ‘Googik Dreaming’. Photo: supplied.
q The anglers that fished last weekend's Snapper Classic.
Bookmaking’s in the blood
By Bill HARROW
LOCAL “bookie” Jo Borger has been fielding at the local horses for the past two years.
Bookmaking is in her blood.
Her Mum Kerrie was a bookie for 30 years and was the first female to be registered with the NSW Bookmakers’ Co-op.
Jo remembers going to the races from the age of five.
When old enough to be licensed, she “pencilled” and swung the change bag for her Mum and other bookies
before gracing the stand herself.
“I didn’t have much chance of doing anything else, given I started going to the races at the age of five and with Mum’s history at the track,” Jo told News Of The Area.
She now fields at the Port Macquarie races, Taree, Wauchope, Kempsey and other venues if there’s a big meeting.
Jo has seen many changes in betting on the horses.
The biggest change has been the dramatic drop-off
in crowds at race meetings, leading to smaller turnovers.
The inception of TAB betting off-course also reduced betting at the track.
Then there was the rise of corporate betting companies, who let punters bet via their mobile phones, which also took money away from the tracks.
Jo remembers the days of handwritten betting tickets when she wrote a thousand tickets at one meeting.
Jo has never matched this feat with the now computergenerated tickets.
Port Mac Goss: Blake’s Adventures
By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS
A 13-YEAR-OLD who needs no introduction, Blake Herbert is fast becoming a local celebrity through his enthusiasm for everything outdoors.
For the past six months, Blake, who lives with ADHD and dyslexia, has been a regular feature alongside "Sarge" on Triple M on a Friday morning, telling listeners where and when the fish are biting.
Blake's personality and enthusiasm is infectious and listeners have been highly impressed with his knowledge of the local fishing scene.
Blake's parents, Lesley and Jason, who operate Camp Jordan on the Hastings River, say their son "never stops".
His passion for the outdoors led to the
development of the now popular Blake's Adventures social media page, which is attracting more and more followers every week.
Blake, how did you get the gig with "Sarge" on Triple M doing the fishing report?
My aunty works at Triple M and through her recommendation, they asked me to come and do it and now I do it every Friday and love it.
You really love being outdoors don't you?
Yes, I cannot stay indoors. It is not me. I love fishing, hunting and surfing. I also play rugby league for the Port Macquarie Sharks and rugby union for the Vikings.
Where is the best spot to fish on the Hastings River?
That is easy. On the wharf at Camp Jordan. There is plenty of flathead, bream and jewfish. Any guests that stay, I love to show them the best way to fish and even take them crabbing. I got a real kick out of sharing some time fishing with West Tigers NRL player Brent Naden who was in Port Macquarie on a break.
Through your social media platform, Blake's Adventures, everyone in our area is getting to know you. You even offered updates on the recent flood disaster. What is it like being a local celebrity?
When I was little, my mum and nana took plenty of videos. At 18-months-old,
I went out to sea to fish and my adventures have been captured since then, so I thought I would share them on my social media page, Blake's Adventures. I just did it for a bit of fun and I'm so happy with how many followers I have and getting more every week.
You are an ambassador for dyslexia, and you have an important engagement this Saturday at the Port Macquarie Library. Do you want to tell us a bit about it?
On Saturday at 11am I am doing a presentation at the Port Macquarie Library, promoting a new decodable book for dyslexic kids. Dyslexia affects so many and everyone struggles, and I am more than happy to promote awareness of this condition.
Like a lot of racegoers, she misses the big crowds at the track and the atmosphere they create.
She looks forward to the News Year’s Day meeting at Port Macquarie and the Boxing Day meeting at Wauchope where there is a glimpse of the good old days. By day, Jo works in NSW TAFE admin.
She believes bookmaking is no longer a viable business and now regards it as a hobby and social event.
thanks for sharing your story.
Good luck on your next adventure, which will
obviously be outdoors, and congratulations on your advocacy of
Marking a year of musical memories
By Rikki WALLER
MUSIC rang down the hallways as the Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance celebrated the first anniversary of its weekly musical program “Memories in Melodies”.
The group supports people living with dementia, Parkinson's disease and other similar conditions, and is facilitated by music therapist Phoebe Thompson-Star.
The Alliance also welcomes senior members of the community who’d like to experience the benefits of music.
Fifty people attended Monday’s anniversary celebrations and were treated to singing, drumming, brain exercises and some dancing.
“A very busy, joyous occasion was had by all,” alliance president Gai McPherson told News Of The Area.
“Sandwiches were
provided by Soul Sisters, and cakes, scones and slices were donated by our volunteers and some of the other attendees.”
Joining them for their special morning tea were several invited guests including representatives from the alliance’s grant providers Port MacquarieHastings Council, Australia Post, and Westport Club, along with their sponsor Just Better Care.
The Port Macquarie
Dementia Friendly Alliance was established 13 years ago, initiated by past member and former MP Leslie Williams.
It aims to facilitate the development and success of a dementia friendly community in the Port MacquarieHastings Council area.
The Memories in Melodies program launched in July last year and is a collaboration between the alliance and Soul Sounds Music Therapy, where Phoebe is a Music Therapist.
Sessions are held weekly
with the support of alliance volunteers.
“Each session lasts 60 minutes and includes singing, playing instruments, movement, and fun," said Gai.
“It also allows for social connection over morning tea.”
She hopes it has a positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia, and their carers and families.
The alliance promotes awareness and understanding and provides support services, education and information.
“[We want] to ensure that people living with dementia and their carers have a voice in the community.”
Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians and the leading cause of death for Australian women, according to Dementia Australia.
It is estimated that by the end of 2025, there will be 433,300 living with dementia - increasing to an estimated 812,500 by 2054.
Adding a local perspective
to the statistics, there will be an estimated 2586 people living with dementia by the end of 2025 within the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.
This is estimated to rise by 76 percent to 4548 by 2054.
Next up for the alliance is a fundraising Bunnings BBQ on 26 July and a number of events are planned for September, which is Dementia Awareness Month.
“We are [also] available for presentations and discussions around dementia, lived experiences of carers and people living with dementia, and understanding communication strategies with people living with dementia.”
Gai and the alliance team can’t thank their supporters enough for embracing their celebrations and community.
To learn more about Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance, visit dementiafriendlypmq.com. au or find them on Facebook (Dementia Friendly Port Macquarie).
q Bookie’ Jo Borger. Photo: Bill Harrow.
Blake,
dyslexia. You are a champion!
q Blake Herbert.
q Generations come together to celebrate. Photo: supplied.
q Tambourines and drums were out, ready to make music. Photo: supplied.
Dancer Ryan Pearson returns to Port
By Bill HARROW
RYAN Pearson has just returned from a very successful international tour with the Sydney Dance Company, performing in “Impermanence” with shows in Barcelona, Spain, The Theatre Royal in London, Belgrade, Serbia and finishing up in the US cities of Portland, Washington and New York.
Ryan, who is of Biripi and Worimi descent on his
mother's side and Minang, Goreng and Balardung on his father's side, has worked tirelessly to achieve his life goal as a dancer.
He worked his way through the NSW Schools’ Aboriginal Dance Company and attended the Professional Division Summer Intensive at Alvin Aily American Dance Theatre in New York City.
He has a very impressive and long CV culminating in becoming part of the Sydney Dance Company in 2024.
The company is now bringing its production “Momenta” to The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie on 2 August.
Ryan said he is excited to bring Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela’s production to life
“I love working with Rafael as he teaches his dancers to reach for the stars and is very passionate about our work," he told News Of The Area.
Dancing is a full-time
job for Ryan with intensive training five days per week.
His passion likely comes from his paternal grandmother who was the first Aboriginal ballet dancer in Australia and performed through the 1950s.
“Dancing serves a lot of things in my life; it’s my career and my passion.
“It connects me with my culture and family.”
Ryan is expecting a large family contingent at the Port Macquarie performance.
Marine Rescue boosts flood readiness
Marine Rescue NSW Capability Manager Dave Bowing said participants were given a comprehensive briefing before getting on the water.
“The exercise simulated an east coast low weather system impacting the Mid North Coast.
“Participants undertook tasks ranging from basic resupply operations to rescuing persons from the water,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW developed a State Operations Group following the 2022 Independent Flood Inquiry and has since built capability to support the NSW Government’s response during weather emergencies.
Bowing said the Red Rock exercise provided a vital opportunity for Marine Rescue NSW and NSW SES to train together ahead of reallife deployments anywhere in the state.
“The exercise went very well,” he said.
“We were very pleased with the inter-agency cooperation demonstrated
and the lessons learned.
“All tasks were carried out professionally and with a high level of skill.”
Volunteers from the Marine Rescue Crowdy Harrington, Port Macquarie, Nambucca, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Ballina and Point Danger units took part in the exercise to test their operational readiness.
“The State Operations Group is made up of existing Marine Rescue NSW members who have developed additional skillsets,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said the organisation is actively recruiting volunteers, including in inland locations.
“We’re always looking for new volunteers, particularly in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast – two of our busiest regions,” Commissioner Barrell said.
“There are a number of regional centres like Lismore, Grafton, Kempsey and Taree, where people can join our coastal units.
“All of our volunteers receive full, free training and equipment to help them save lives on the water.
“If you're thinking about joining Marine Rescue NSW, there’s no better time.”
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based notfor-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Stargazing: The energy-producing power of the sun
By Dave RENEKE, Astronomer
HOW much energy does the Sun produce in one hour?
Let's just say it's enough to make your brain hurt.
In just one hour, our Sun releases more energy than all of humanity uses in an entire year. Seriously.
Every house lit up, every car driven, every phone charged, every plane flownall could be powered for a full year by just one single hour of the Sun doing its thing!
So, what exactly is this monstrous powerhouse in the sky?
The Sun is a massive, spinning ball of gas, mostly hydrogen and helium, burning at mind-melting temperatures.
It’s 1.4 million kilometres across, about 109 times wider than Earth.
If it were hollow, you
could fit a million Earths inside it.
But it’s not hollow.
It’s solid fire and fury.
At its core, the temperature is a staggering 15 million degrees Celsius.
This is nuclear fusion, nature’s most efficient furnace.
Every single second, the Sun hurls out around 386 billion billion megawatts of energy.
In one second, the Sun pumps out more energy than humans have ever consumed in all of history.
Now stretch that out to one hour - that's over 1.4 x 10³⁰ joules.
Imagine writing the number 1 followed by 30 zeroes.
That’s the kind of power we're talking about.
It’s not just big. It’s terrifying.
And here’s the kicker: as stars go, the Sun isn’t even
special.
It’s a plain old yellow dwarf. It's not one of the giants that live fast and die young.
The Sun is average and ordinary and yet to us, it’s everything.
It holds 99.8 percent of all the mass in our solar system.
It keeps the planets in orbit, drives our climate, powers our food chain, and even plays games with our mood.
Without the Sun, Earth would freeze in weeks.
Life would vanish. Game over.
The Sun is no newborn.
It’s about 4.6 billion years old and halfway through its life.
It has about another five billion years of steady burning left.
Then it’ll get weird.
When the hydrogen runs low, it’s bad news; the Sun will swell into a red giant,
engulfing Mercury and Venus. Earth? Eventually, the Sun will shed its outer layers, puffing out into space like a dying breath.
What's left will be a white dwarf that'll slowly cool for trillions of years, fading into darkness.
But don't lose sleep.
We've got time - about 50 million centuries.
Could we ever capture all that energy?
Well, we’re trying.
Solar panels are a start,
but they’re tiny sips from a firehose.
Right now, humanity uses only a minuscule fraction of the sunlight that hits Earth.
But if we could collect all of it for just one hour, we’d have more energy than we need for an entire year.
Futurists even talk about building a Dyson Sphere - a massive structure around the Sun to trap all its energy.
For now, it's sci-fi. But in the grand scheme of cosmic history?
Maybe not so far-fetched. So next time you feel the sun on your face, think about what you're touching.
You're soaking up light that took eight minutes to travel 150 million kilometres across the void.
You're feeling the afterglow of fusion reactions that began before you were born.
That gentle warmth? It's the calmest version of unimaginable power.
MORE than 30 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers (State Operations Group), staff and NSW State Emergency Service (SES) members
enhanced their flood rescue and support skills during a capability exercise on the Corindi River at Red Rock over the weekend.
q Ryan Pearson will perform at The Glasshouse on 2 August.
q Participants displayed a great degree of skill.
q Marine Rescue NSW multi-purpose vessels were used in the exercise.
q During weather emergencies Marine Rescue NSW can be requested to assist by NSW SES.
q Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from seven units across the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast took part in the Red Rock exercise.
Hastings dominate Outback Challenge
By Kim AMBROSE
HASTINGS League put on a dominant display in the Outback Rugby League Challenge at Coonabarabran on Saturday 12 July, outclassing the NSW Outback side for a 40-22 win.
Walgett’s Malakai Haley secured first points for the Outback after making an impressive break straight through the middle.
This was followed by Trent Mason (Walgett) finishing off a well placed grubber kick from fullback Quinton Kennedy (Walgett).
Despite the Outback side’s impressive start, their 10-0 lead was short-lived as Hastings hit back with three quick tries.
Kendall’s Ryan Long scored first, eclipsing several defenders on his way to the posts.
He secured his second shortly after, before
Comboyne’s Jamaine Anderson cut through the Outback defence to the tryline, giving Hastings a 1610 lead as they headed into the break.
The second half began with Walgett’s Tristan Wise dragging four Hastings players with him across the line, temporarily deadlocking the score at 16-16.
In response, Kendall’s Kaine Cafe flew down the right edge before delivering an inside ball to Long, to reclaim a 22-16 lead for Hastings.
From here Hastings continued to add to their onslaught, with tries to Jamaine Anderson, Daniel Weightman and Jack Chapman blowing the scoreline out to 40-16.
Just before the referee’s whistle concluded play the Outback secured the last points of the match, resulting
in a full time scoreline of 4022
Hastings District Rugby League CEO Geoff Connor praised the team's performance, acknowledged the strategic acumen of Jimmy Kennedy, the team's captain/ coach.
“The boys played exceptionally well bringing home the shield with a solid 40-22 win,” said Connor.
“Ryan Long had a blinder crossing for three tries, including a couple of solo efforts.
“Jamaine Anderson also had a big game from the back going over for two.
“Daniel Weightman scored one as did Jack Chapman who also kicked six goals and came away with the Man of the Match.
“A big thank you to Jimmy Kennedy, who played well, executed a winning plan and kept the boys going when we
Jets to host free open training session
By Sis HIGGINS
FOOTBALL fans in Port Macquarie will have the rare chance to see the Newcastle Jets up close, with an exclusive open training session set for Thursday, 7 August at 1pm at Findlay Park.
The open training is free to attend, and all ages are welcome.
The session forms part of the 2025 Jets:TOUR, supported by the Greater Bank, which sees the A-League Men’s side visit Lismore, Port Macquarie and Taree in support of floodaffected communities across the region.
“This year’s Jets:TOUR will be extra special as it connects with the towns of Lismore, Port Macquarie and Taree, who have all been
through so much this year with the floods,” said Greater Bank Regional Manager Scott McCluskey.
Local fans will be able to watch the team’s pre-match preparations, meet players, and get a glimpse of beloved stars including Japanese international Kota Mizunuma and new signings like Irish defender Joe Shaughnessy.
It will also be one of the first public appearances for newly appointed head coach Mark Milligan.
Newcastle Jets General Manager of Customer and Community Matt Starr said, “We have been very clear in our desire to connect and engage with the broader Jets community and we’re really looking forward to taking our club and programs to regional centres along the North
were behind early.
“This is a great initiative from NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) and well done to everyone involved.”
NSWRL Community Rugby League Manager Peter Clarke said the annual match was an important fixture on the NSWRL calendar.
“The focus of the Outback Challenge game is to reward and recognise players from remote rugby league communities in the Far West,” Clarke said.
“It’s exciting to connect highly regarded mentors Dean Widders, Nathan Blacklock along with Coonabarabran based teacher Will Robinson, with players and volunteers based in Wilcannia, Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett.
“Apart from game-based skills, learnings were shared about Kamilaroi culture and community football leadership, emphasising
q Jets midfielder Alex Nunes in preseason training. Photo: supplied.
Coast.”
In addition to the Port Macquarie session, the Jets will run Jets:PLAY clinics, school visits, and club engagements in all three towns, with the headline event being a preseason
exhibition match against Brisbane Roar in Lismore on Saturday 9 August.
A kids clinic will be held on Sunday 10 August at Omaru Park in Taree from 3pm.
Pirates flex their muscles
By Aiden BURGESS
LADDER leaders the Port Macquarie Pirates flexed their muscles during Round 12 of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season, smashing the Kempsey Cannonballs 64-7 in Port Macquarie.
The Coffs Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins both also had wins.
The Snappers got the job done away from home, beating the Hastings Valley Vikings 22-12 in Port Macquarie.
The SCU Marlins triumphed at home edging
Top grade debut
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 20
zone, but the rewards have been immense.
out the Grafton Redmen 3433 at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
Round 13
The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season continues this weekend with Round 13 games.
Coffs Harbour Snappers
has been invaluable.
“It is great to have so many people to look up to.”
the benefits of grassroots participation; these learnings will be passed on locally to strengthen communities in the Far West.
“We'd also like to thank Hastings League for their continued support, making the trek from the Mid-North coast backing up from their trip to Lightning Ridge last year.”
The Outback Rugby League Challenge is supported by the NSW Government, who invest in Community Rugby League competitions in Far West NSW.
Key areas that will benefit from the funding include Walgett, Bourke, Brewarrina, Collarenebri, Goodooga, Lightning Ridge, Wilcannia, Menindee and Broken Hill.
The funds are used to support Far West clubs with the costs of registration, insurance, club transport, well-being events, referees
and referee travel.
It also assists with the engagement of staff dedicated to junior and social competition support and capacity building, as well as community development programs.
The Hastings District Rugby League representative team:
Coach: Jimmy Kennedy
Coaching staff: Blake Debreceny, Michael Schiffmann, James Roberts and Claudia Todd.
Players: Comboyne: Jamaine Anderson, Luke Hartog, Blake Debreceny, Ben Stewart and Cameron Pharoah.
Kendall: Kaine Café, Jack Chapman, Ryan Long, Taylor Eggins, Daniel Weightman and Jack Bates.
“Although signing with the Panthers meant being away from everything I was comfortable with, it is such a rewarding experience,” said Erin.
She is still getting used to some aspects of major city life however.
“Having consistency at training and being surrounded by so many people with such a high level of experience and expertise
“Navigating through Sydney isn't ideal for someone from a small town, but it's a learning curve that I’m extremely happy to be a
Erin’s debut was a surreal and poignant moment filled with both excitement and nerves, yet her approach remained steady.
“Running out onto the stadium for the first time was an unreal experience and I enjoyed every moment of it,” Erin shared.
“Even though we didn't get the win I was just so grateful to have this experience.”
Looking ahead, Erin's goals remain firmly centred on her development and
“My focus this year is to immerse myself in this experience, to take in everything that comes with the season - the good and the bad - and hopefully secure another contract for the 2026 season.”
DEAR News Of The Area,
I WOULD like to see our State MP try to get some assistance for pensioners who have to get orthotics as part of their medical or physical treatment.
I would also seek financial assistance in gym membership fees for pensioners.
Orthotics are around $600 a pair and gym memberships are $800 per year, so I would be looking at a 50 percent contribution from the Minns Government.
The reasons are simple, if the government wants older Australians to remain in their homes and stay out of nursing homes, then they should be assisting those of us on fixed incomes.
OPINION & LETTERS
Support for pensioners Make XPT replacements a priority
I would like to give just a couple of examples in support of what I am seeking for pensioners on fixed incomes.
Could I point out that the Minns Government is about to spend $700 million on an underestimated cost of a hospital in the Sydney area, this to me is incompetence in finance.
The Minns Government is also to spend $500 million on domestic violence matters.
I am 74 years old,
and I have heard about DV for my whole life and governments of the day have not improved this rather sad saga.
Throwing money at it will not solve the problem as they have all tried this method and it does not work as proven by the increasing numbers of DV cases each year.
To top things off the Minns Government is spending $23 million on catching up on elective surgery.
So $700 million via incompetence, $500 million on domestic violence and a paltry $23 million on taxpayers who are seeking minor but important to them operations.
What I am asking for would not be a great deal of money but it would be a step in the right direction for looking after the older community.
You know how when the elections are close, politicians start telling us how they will fix things and give the taxpayer what they want, what childcare needs and even how they will look after the older community?
Well, how about doing what you all have promised.
Regards, Barry DOWSE, Port Macquarie.
on the North Coast line is 60kph!
Yet train travel can be comfortable, fast and affordable, as Europe, Japan, China and many other countries show.
China now has a High Speed Rail network of 45,000 km with speeds up to 350 kph.
DEAR News Of The Area,
ONE article among many caught my attention in the July 11 NOTA (No ‘hard and fast date’ for new trains, page 9).
I have been following this since 2015 when then Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams issued a media release announcing a ‘brand new fleet of trains to replace the ageing XPT fleet’.
The Coalition government also promised to slash travel times to the Mid North Coast by an hour
from Wauchope to Sydney.
Fast forward ten years, eight under the Liberals and Nationals and two under Labor, and we still do not have the new trains.
It took the Coalition three years just to get the tenders organised and five years later the new trains were still being built overseas.
And there is little chance that travel times to Sydney will be reduced because regional rail continues to be a low priority for all governments and parties.
The average XPT speed
If Australia is ever to have HSR we must surely turn to China to build it under their Belt and Road Initiative.
The productivity gains will make such a project well worthwhile.
I urge Robert Dwyer, our new state MP, to put the XPT replacement trains high on his list of priorities and keep pressure on the Minns Labor government to deliver them as soon as possible.
We have waited far too long!
Regards, Harry CREAMER, Port Macquarie.
A question of sovereignty lost
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE growing calls from eminent and expert Australians for an urgent review of the AUKUS strategic defence pact and issues over sovereignty are sadly 50 years too late.
The recent US Administration pressing Australia to up our defence spending and make a precommitment to engage in conflict with our major trading partner raises significant questions regarding the extent to which Australian sovereignty has been compromised under the auspices of ANZUS.
The sad truth is we indirectly ditched our sovereignty in 1975 when a younger Murdoch press ran its successful anti-Whitlam campaign and we voted to oust the then government.
Much to the relief of the CIA; this resulted in the US retaining their Australian based intelligence gathering and communications facilities (Pine Gap and North West Cape) which Whitlam had been intent on closing down.
Whitlam had at least managed to confirm a ‘full knowledge and concurrence’ agreement, which is still in place and is supposed to
keep the Government (and the people) in the loop.
Good luck trying to find out what communications these facilities have made with recent governments, or what involvement they have had in the recent US bombing of Iran, for example. Successive Australian governments, a complicit public, and a defence department seemingly devoid of any alternative national security strategy have since dutifully enrolled us in costly and disastrous US led wars, so consolidating US military presence here was always on the cards, despite
Sovereignty concerns.
This came with the Abbott Government’s 2014 Force Positive Agreement which further relinquished time honored restrictions on the deployment of foreign troops on Australian soil.
This has led to a multimillion dollar expansion of our military base infrastructure to house US personnel and materiel.
AUKUS and further compromises with the inclusion of nuclear capable subs and basing infrastructure has simply ‘sealed the deal’.
To suggest that this doesn’t negatively impact
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
There has been so much hype around the gotcha moment when Astronomer CEO Andy Byron was caught in an embrace with his chief people officer at a Coldplay concert.
Why is there so much interest?
Jerry P.
Dear Jerry,
Coldplay songs cover the gamut of emotions. It's one thing to drive a loved one to the airport, but making that trip accompanied by a Coldplay playlist is another experience altogether.
Chris Martin is an incredible songwriter.
He expresses the depth of human emotion from love to regret to redemption (and that's just in The Scientist).
He's incredibly astute, and that was pretty evident when he said, straight after the concert gotcha moment, that the deer in headlights couple were either having an affair or just very shy.
The wide-eyed look of shock followed by a quick turnabout and hasty duck seemed to indicate that Martin was on the money with his first observation.
No longer swaying, the CEO and his people person were thrust into the limelight in a way that was never going to be good for Astronomer.
How, for example, was the chief people officer going to talk about ethical work practices at the next staff meeting?
on our relations with our near neighbors, make us a target, and/or, that we are somehow able to remain non-complicit in US actions; or remain neutral; or can opt out; or simply wind back these major concessions if the US behaves badly or declares war is a nonsense.
The US is not the nostalgic ‘big bro’ of 1945 that ‘has our backs’, and for that matter China is not the Imperial Japan of the 1930s, despite US war mongering.
Regards, Dave WOOD, Mid North Coast.
How was the CEO going to address the organisation's reputational management when his own reputation had just gone down the gurgler?
Perhaps the only way for Andy's wife to deal with the fallout will be in true Coldplay style.
When her husband arrives home with his tail between his legs, she could simply play lyrics that have suddenly taken on a whole new level of meaning.
He will no doubt be greeted with 'Nobody said it was easy, it's such a shame for us to part' blaring out the bedroom window at which point she could throw down his clothes, his shoes, and his vintage album collection featuring a signed copy of A Rush of Blood to the Head. I very much doubt this is going to be a conscious uncoupling.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
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FRIDAY
THE GOOD SHIP MURDER
SBS, 7.30pm
It’s quite an odd time of year to be rolling out a Christmas special – but Christmas in July is a thing now, so why not? The Good Ship Murder is docking in Dubrovnik at this most wonderful time of the year, and Jack (Shayne Ward, pictured) and Kate (Catherine Tyldesley) are on the hunt for a replacement Santa after the ship’s usual one falls ill so that Christmas on board isn’t ruined. But when their pick, local comedian Buddy (Cliff Parisi), turns up dead (what else did you expect on a ship with a name like that?) it’s looking like Christmas might have to be cancelled after all.
FRIDAY,
July 25
TUESDAY
FBI: MOST WANTED
TEN, 9.40pm
There’s both good news and bad for fans of this high-stakes police procedural: while US network CBS cancelled both Most Wanted and its fellow FBI spin-off, International, earlier this year; the silver lining for Aussie fans is that we’ve still got a full season of new episodes to catch up on before Supervisory Special Agent Remy Scott (Dylan McDermott, pictured) and the squad tackle their final case. Tonight, in “Radio Silence”, the task force must act quickly when two NYPD officers are gunned down during a robbery, and another pair are targeted while responding to a call. With precincts across the city on edge, the team works against the clock to track down the killer and end the bloodshed.
THURSDAY
GREAT AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIPS
A travelogue that’s as much about the journey as the destination, this entertaining new
comedian
Nazeem Hussain, foodie Melissa Leong, writer and performer Steph Tisdell and Aussie acting royalty Claudia Karvan head off on six epic road trips that celebrate Australia’s natural beauty. Tonight, Leong introduces Hussain (both pictured) to the magic of the Red Centre on one of her favourite drives: cruising the almost 500km between Alice Springs and Watarrka National Park. There’s camel rides, bush tucker, a desert song festival and outback footy along the way, before the pair catch the sunset in Kings Canyon, surrounded by iconic rock formations made famous by Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane escapes to a tropical conservatory.
8.30 Patience. (Ma) A best-selling crime writer is found dead.
9.20 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
9.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.
10.35 Spicks And Specks. (PGs, R)
11.05 ABC Late News.
11.25 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)
12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
BTN Newsbreak. 9.25 Robot Wars. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Good Ship Murder. (Return, Mv) A comedian is murdered on the ship.
8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals: Sex. Suzannah Lipscomb investigates royal sex scandals.
9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19.
2.00 World’s Most Secret Homes. (R)
3.45 Blue Water Safari. (PG, R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 20. GWS Giants v Sydney.
10.30 Shaking Down The Thunder. (PGl, R) Follows the 2005 Sydney Swans. 11.45 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
12.15 The Disappearance. (Madv, R) Charles and Susan continue their investigation.
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Parramatta Eels match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran is pushed to the brink. Sylvester Stallone.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Jeopardy! Australia. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon Talking Honey. 12.10 MOVIE: Christmas At The Chalet. (2023, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00
6.00 10 News+.
7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a spacious home. 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. (Ms, R) Guests include Michael Fassbender. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 10 News+. (R) 11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00
6.00
SATURDAY, July 26
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Sailing. Sail Grand Prix. Round 7. H’lights. 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling.
6.30 SBS World News.
6.00 Australian Story: Making A Scene – Claudia Karvan. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: North East Tasmania. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Grantchester. (Ma) Alphy and Geordie step in to help Leonard. 8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) Barnaby and Winter investigate after a body is found covered in live rabbits at the Belville Small Pet Show.
9.50 Bay Of Fires. (Mal, R) A date night turns into graveyard duty for Stella.
10.40 Little Disasters. (Final, Mal, R) 11.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (Return) 8.00 Kids Baking Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
7.30 Great British Cities With Susan Calman: Newcastle. Susan Calman explores Newcastle.
8.25 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. Nantua to Pontarlier. 184.2km hilly stage. From France.
12.50 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)
1.20 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 1.
3.50 Blue Water Safari. (PG, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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Australia. Noon Abandoned Americana. 12.55 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 1.25 SBS50. 1.30 Over The Black Dot. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.05 Mastermind Australia. 6.35 The Frontier. 7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. 10.30 Late Programs.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.15 Where The Money Is. (2000, PG) 7.55 The Movie Show. 8.25 Walk With Me. (2017, PG) 10.10 The
SUNDAY, July 27
6.00
Bites. (R) 3.40 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. (PG, R) 4.40 Hippo Watch. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.
6.30 Compass: The GovernorGeneral – One Year On. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Austin. (Return, PG) Austin grapples with sudden literary fame.
8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv) Stella must deal with another dead body.
8.50 Miss Austen. (Premiere) Charts the lives of Jane and Cassandra Austen.
9.45 MOVIE: Gayby Baby. (2015, PG, R) Follows four children of gay parents. Gus. 11.10 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.40 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
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Lost World Of The Hanging Gardens.
8.35 The Secrets Of Mount Olympus. (R) Takes a look at Mount Olympus, considered the residence of the gods in Greek mythology.
9.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 2.
11.30 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R)
12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 21. 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 APAC Weekly.
(31)
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.25 PBS Washington Week. 4.50 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 5.50 Lost Gold Of The Aztecs. 6.40 Engineering Reborn. 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The Legend Of Bigfoot. 9.25 The Phoenix Lights Phenomenon. 10.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team visits Tasmania’s world heritage wilderness.
7.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. (Premiere, PG) Presented by Dara Ó Briain.
8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) An academic uncovers a conspiracy while helping investigate a murder inside the Louvre. Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen.
11.30 Autopsy USA. (Mad, R)
12.30 The Disappearance. (Mav, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (Final, PG, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby Union. British & Irish Lions Tour. Game 2. Australia v British & Irish Lions.
10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match.
10.15 MOVIE: Creed. (2015, Malv, R)
12.45 My Life As A Rolling Stone. (Madl, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
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 project manager hunts for a new home. 8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) NSW Ambulance delivers a baby and saves a four-year-old with a critical heart condition.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PGa) 8.20 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.20 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Mystery Of The Homestead Murders. (MA15+av, R) Takes a look at the 1978 murders of Mick and Sue Lewis, whose bodies were found in their homestead.
10.40 The Crow Girl. (MA15+av)
12.50 Jamestown. (MA15+av, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (Return, PGl)
8.55 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating issues affecting all Australians. 10.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 The First 48. (Mav) 12.30 Embarrassing Bodies. (MA15+dms, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Fishing Australia. (R)
9.45 House Hunters Australia. (R) A couple search for a home in Sydney’s Northern Beaches for their growing family. 10.45 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) Elsbeth visits a historic funeral home. 11.45 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 MasterChef
MONDAY, July 28
6.00
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 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 7.55 Junior Vets. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Hard Quiz
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Portugal With Michael Portillo.
8.20 Abandoned Railways From Above. (PG, R)
9.15 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. (PGaw, R)
10.10 SBS World News Late. 10.40 The Andes Tragedy: 50 Years Later. (PGa, R)
11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 3. 2.05 Blackport. (MA15+s, R) 3.00 Weeks Of War. (PGav, R) 3.55 Blue Water Safari. (PGal, R) 4.55 Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) Shaun Micallef, Kyle Shilling, Felicity Ward and Mia Fevola hit the dance floor in the semi-finals.
8.50 9-1-1. (Masv) The 118 is called to a research lab that has been set on fire and becomes a biohazard.
10.50 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.00 Gone. (MA15+v, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 The Zoo. 9.30 NBC Today. 10.30 Better Homes. 1pm Your Money
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 100% Footy. (M)
9.40 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 2. Finals. 10.45 9News Late.
We See When We Look At The Sky? Continued. (2021, Georgian) 8.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 10.30 All The King’s Men. (2006, M) 12.55pm All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 3.45 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 5.45 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 7.35 Ondine. (2009, M) 9.30 First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 11.25 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, July 29
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys.
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Making Sense Of Cancer With Hannah Fry. (Mal, R) 11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 4. 2.05 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PG, R) 3.10 Weeks Of War. (PGavw, R) 4.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGal, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.45 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 5.45 WorldWatch. 6.15 The Food That Built The World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Raw Comedy 2025. 10.05 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. 11.30 Fashionista. 11.40 WorldWatch. 12.10pm Homicide. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 4.00 Fashionista. 4.10 News. 4.15 WorldWatch. 6.15 The Food That Built The World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Alone. 9.40 Hoarders. 11.20 Pitino: Red Storm Rising. 12.15am Late Programs.
(32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.10 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 8.00 Anton Chekhov’s The Duel. (2010, PG) 9.45 The Movie Show. 10.15 The Humbling. (2014, M) 12.15pm Into The Darkness. (2020, M, Danish) 3.00 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 5.35 The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. (2008, PG) 7.30 I Love You Too. (2010, M) 9.30 One Fine Morning. (2022, MA15+, French) 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 The 1% Club. (PGls, R) Jim Jefferies hosts a game show where contestants must answer increasingly obscure questions.
8.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mns) The 10 remaining castaways come to the end of their adventure and return to reality.
11.20 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.20 Fairly Legal. (Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA (51) 9GEM (82)
WEDNESDAY, July 30
6.00
Programs. 11.00
Femmes.
3. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 4. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 SBS50. (PG, R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 4. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 6.30 SBS World News.
How Disney Built America. (PG)
Aerial Australia. (Premiere, PGa)
Smilla’s Sense Of Snow. (Premiere)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Who Do You Think You Are? US. (PGa, R)
11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 5.
2.05 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PGv, R)
3.10 Weeks Of War. (PG, R)
4.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGan, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
ABC FAMILY (22)
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 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 7.55 Junior Vets. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Abbott Elementary. 9.10 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00
(31)
H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 4.00 Fashionista. 4.10 News. 4.15 WorldWatch. 6.15 The Food That Built The World. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: The Killer Inside Me. (2010) 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Ashley Cain: Into The Danger Zone. (MA15+a) 11.20 Stags. (MA15+av)
12.20 Imposters. (Madlv, R)
1.20 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 The Zoo. 9.30
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Block. (PGl) Bathroom week brings some teams undone. 8.40 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 4. Finals. 11.10
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
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 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 7.55 Junior Vets. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.10 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.40 Dance Life. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs.
6am The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. Continued. (2008, PG) 7.40 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 10.15 First Snow Of Summer. (2023, M, German) 12.10pm Ondine. (2009, M) 2.05 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 3.55 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 5.35 The Company. (2003, PG) 7.40 The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, M) 9.30 Book Of Love. (2022) 11.30 My Salinger Year. (2020, M) 1.25am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, July 31
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 5. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Iceland. (PGa, R) 2.55 The Day The Rock Star Died: Elvis Presley. (PG, R) 3.25 The Point. (R) 3.30 SBS50. (PG, R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 5. H’lights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Australian Road Trips. (Premiere)
8.25 Into The Amazon With Robson Green. (PGa, R)
9.20 Snowpiercer.
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R)
11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage
6. 2.05 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PGv, R) 3.10 Weeks Of War. (PG, R)
4.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGn, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Insight. 1.30 The Giants: From Hawaii To Sumo Legends. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 4.00 News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 Late Programs.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Company. Continued. (2003, PG) 7.35 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard. (2009, PG) 9.20 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 10.55 Falling. (2020, M) 1pm I Love You Too. (2010, M) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.30 The Loss Of A Teardrop Diamond. (2008, PG) 5.20 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 7.40 Charlie And Boots. (2009, M) 9.35 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, M) 11.30 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 American Resto. 11.30 Storage
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Cohen’s world is turned upside down. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 21. Western Bulldogs v GWS Giants.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.00 Kick Ons.
11.30 Code Blue: One Punch Killers. (Madv, R)
12.30 Life. (Madv, R) 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
C’ship.
9.00
11.05
Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby
Children’s Programs.
10.05
12.05pm MOVIE: Sliding Doors. (1998, M) 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.
10.35 Jeannie. 11.05 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Britney Ever After. (2017, M) 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 MOVIE: For Your Eyes Only. (1981, M) 11.10 Late Programs.
DRAMA (51)
DRAMA
9GO! (83) 9GO!
Top grade debut
Panthers Port Macquarie
The Westport Club
Frankies Cafe
Four Espresso
El Motel Inn
Glasshouse Port Macquarie
Redcross Blood Donation Centre
Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie
Ahdeniz Grill House
Florence Jones
Port AdVenture Cruises
The Hearing Shop
Your Discount Chemist
Lilys Cafe
Port Pacific Resort
Majestic Cinema
Port Macquarie Hotel Bottle Shop
Port Macquarie Surfing Museum
The Witchy Nook
Colonial Meats
Rock Salt Marina
Seasalt Cafe & Restaurant
Woolworths, Settlement City
Big Boz Cafe
Ken Little’s Fruit & Veg
Foodworks Munster Street
Seniors Centre
Shelly Beach Store
Flynns Beach Pharmacy
Roam Cafe
Flynns Beach Post Office
Home at Roto House
Mercure Centro
Belle Property
Band Wagon Cafe
For Everything Surf & Skate
Ridges Hotel
Ritchies IGA Port Central
Port Macquarie Library
Bels Bakery
Ritchies IGA Gordon Street
Plunketts Terry White Chemmart
Ned Kelly’s Bait & Tackle
Douglas Hanly Moir
Ryan James Podiatry
PCYC Port Macquarie
Port City Bowling Club
Hill Street Store
Spar Clifton
Twenty24
Mid North Coast Dental Centre
John Oxley Motors
Patrick Auto Group
Belly Bombers
Aldi Port Macquarie
Billabong Zoo
Group Therapy Cafe
Ritchies IGA Sovereign Hills
Douglas Hanly Moir
Coastal Realty & Strata
By Kim AMBROSE
AFTER a memorable 2024 season which saw her win dual premierships across multiple sporting codes, former Laurieton Stingrays star Erin Gunton has solidified her position as an emerging talent on the national rugby league stage.
On Saturday, 19 July, 20-year-old Erin reached a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career, debuting for the Penrith Panthers women’s team, in the club's inaugural season in the Harvey Norman NSWRL Women's Premiership.
She came off the interchange bench in a 32-10 loss to the Cronulla Sutherland Sharks.
The Camden Haven product’s time with the Panthers has been one of growth and adaptation, with the rising star embracing all aspects of the experience wholeheartedly.
Erin said committing to the Panthers has meant stepping out of her comfort
Wauchope Newsagency
Infinity Fuels
Wauchope
Bennett Steel
Wauchope IGA
Mid North Coast EaTs
Anatolian Breeze
Charlie’s Takeaway
Port Landscape and Nursery
U3A Port Macquarie
Ruins Way Cafe
Port Macquarie Golf Club
Tacking Point Tavern
Lighthouse Beach Your Discount Chemist
Coles Lighthouse Beach
Emerald Downs Golf Course
Lighthouse Beach Post Office
Telegraph Point Service Station
Telegraph Point Sports &
Recreation Club
Ricardoes Tomatoes
Riverview Tavern
q Erin Gunton (bottom left) and the Penrith Panthers women’s team. Photo: supplied.
