By Sis HIGGINS
The
Run
FUNDING FRUSTRATION
By Sue STEPHENSON
q Proud
GoIT winners, Lizzy Collett and Eloise Flower. Photo: supplied.
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Category D blow for flood affected farmers and business
By Sue STEPHENSON
MICHAEL Kemp fears as many as 95 percent of flood affected farmers and businesses in the Oxley electorate will struggle to stay in operation if the state doesn’t request a Category D declaration from the Federal Government.
The Member for Oxley, whose family property and business also suffered significant damage last month, has spoken to hundreds of primary producers and small business owners struggling to clean-up, let alone get back on their feet.
“There is stock removal, removal of debris, fixing fences, feeding, transport,” Mr Kemp told News Of The Area.
“Hay is also very, very expensive at the moment.
“Businesses that were inundated include supermarkets and healthcare facilities, and butchers and bakers.
“And there were losses of ovens and fridges and furniture.
“One owner experienced $500,000 damage to his diesel mechanics business.
“Without significant funding, he doesn't even know if he can start operating again - so it's been really hard for him.”
Tuesday’s NSW Budget failed to include a formal request for the Commonwealth to increase flood relief payments from $25,000 to the maximum $75,000, which has dealt communities a further blow.
“No Category D. No new disaster grants.
We have this Printed Edition available
"No explanation for why suburbs still can’t access the hardship
payment.
“And not a single dollar in the budget to further support our community," Mr Kemp said.
Hastings and Macleay Valley communities will now "take matters into their own hands”.
A rally is being planned for Kempsey Racecourse this Sunday, from midday, at which the community, primary producers and businesses will demand action.
It follows a similar rally in Taree attended by around 3000 people.
“The Macleay and Hastings are standing up because the government won’t,” Mr Kemp said.
“I urge everyonefamilies, tradies, shop owners, farmers - to come out this Sunday and stand up together.”
Mr Kemp shared feedback from some of those devastated community members, including dairy farmer Michael Jeffrey.
“Our pasture is destroyed, cattle need to be hand fed daily with purchased hay, roads still impassable, and not a single cent of meaningful recovery support has come through,” Mr Jeffrey said.
“We’re expected to carry the cost and the emotional toll, while the government drags its heels.”
Ian McGoldrick, a beef producer and stock and station agent, says the situation is dire.
“Farmers are losing income hand over fist.
“They’re not selling because they want to, they’re selling because they’ve got no feed and no help," he said.
“We’re not asking for handouts, we’re pleading for the support we desperately need."
encounter aboard the MV Port Adventure Saturday 12th July 2025 Sailing 5pm - 8:30pm Tickets $79 + bf
Member for Port Macquarie Rob Dwyer told News Of The Area, “Disappointingly, despite the Premier visiting the Mid North Coast
to witness the recent devastating floods, more than a month later we still do not have the Category D funding approved which would allow primary producers and small business owners impacted by the floods to get back on their feet with a $75,000 grant.”
q Member for Oxley Michael Kemp has spoken to hundreds of local farmers since the floods. Photos: supplied.
FUNDING FRUSTRATION
FROM Page 1
Street, the Budget’s failure to include funding for the traffic hotspot showed “a lack of vision and courage”.
“I am very disappointed that the Minns Labor Government couldn’t see fit to include any funding towards finalising the business case, so the Federal Labor Government could be in a position to consider funding to upgrade the Oxley Highway,” he said.
“This is a vital project for our community to reduce the huge traffic congestion that sees 20,000 cars and 1500 trucks use the highway each day.
“The bottleneck between the Wrights Road and Lake
Road roundabouts is getting worse and is a growing source of frustration for motorists."
Mr Dwyer has been advocating for the upgrade since March, as his predecessor Leslie Williams did before her retirement.
Director Northern Region of Transport for NSW and I will continue to bang the drum along with my Local and Federal Government colleagues to get this job done once and for all.
Federal MP for Cowper Pat Conaghan says he’ll be seeking a detailed explanation of why the project wasn’t supported.
“The Minns Labor Government needs to remember that it was the former State Labor Government that oversaw the planning and construction of the Oxley Highway, which put us in the position that we are all in today - and that they need to fix.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp was similarly shocked at the absence of funding, especially as it is a shared priority.
“The Minns Government hasn’t listened to either the Liberals or the Nationals,” he told News Of The Area.
“I’ve told the Minister (Jenny Aitchison) that it is very important to the people of Wauchope and the Upper Hastings that Wrights Road is funded.”
Global innovation crown for Port Macquarie duo
“ I’ve met with the Roads Minister, I’ve met with the FROM Page 1
held in 48 countries, inspires them to solve real-world problems using technology.
“After continual promises for solutions to the Wrights Road, Lake Road and Oxley Highway safety and congestion issues from the NSW Labor Ministerial teams, it’s extremely disappointing to hear that there is no funding currently allocated to the project in the recent budget papers,” he said.
“I will be writing to both the State and Federal teams to seek clarification on the issue and hold them to account for their previous assurances.
“Our community is growing, and with accidents occurring with increasing regularity around the Port Macquarie Base Hospital, we can’t continue to hold our breath for funding.”
Mayor Adam Roberts was approached for comment.
“The winning concept ‘SCRAPP’ is a creative and technically advanced app, designed by the two girls, to help reduce waste.”
“I am immensely proud to celebrate the outstanding success of our Year 8 students… at the international GoIT finals,” Principal of St Columba Anglican School Allan Guihot shared.
Developed during their Year 7 Design and Technology project, the app stood out for its real-world relevance, practical application, and user-focused design.
“Their achievement –emerging as global winners from a field of over 80,000
students – is testament not only to their creativity and technical brilliance in developing the ‘SCRAPP’ waste reduction app, but also to the strength of our STEM program and the deep commitment to learning at our school,” Mr Guihot said.
It wasn’t just the technology that caught the attention of the international judging panel, it was also the girls’ confidence, clarity, and professional pitch delivery that sealed the deal.
“This remarkable accomplishment is a proud
moment for our entire school community and a shining example of the outstanding potential we nurture in our students."
The competition attracted students from across the globe, many of them older than Lizzy and Eloise, which adds to the significance of their win.
q Rob Dwyer pointed out the issues at Wrights Rd during a site visit by Opposition Leader Mark Speakman and Shadow Roads Minister Natalie Ward. File photo.
Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop loves being neighbours with The Seed Art School at 1A Blackbutt Road in Port Macquarie and we are planning lots of creative collaborations.
The Hastings Arts Trail is coming up on Saturday 5 July and Sunday 6 July and Hello Koalas and Seed will be open each day from 10am to 4pm.
There will be two new Hello Koalas sculptures being painted over that weekend too at Seed and Hello Koalas.
Local artist and art teacher at Seed Cherie Hurley has been working on her sculpture ‘Orla The Artist’ for a while and on the Hastings Arts Trail weekend, Cherie will be putting the finishing touches on her Hello Koalas sculpture.
Yvonne Kiely is another local artist who has created three Hello Koalas sculptures and will be painting her fourth on the Hastings Arts Trail weekend too.
As well, Yvonne’s three existing sculptures will be on show in the Hello Koalas Gallery - ‘Tully The Celtic Koala’, ‘Mandy Mandala’ and ‘Asha The Tree of Life’ which is usually resident on the verandah of Belle Property at 98 William Street but is visiting Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop for the Hastings Arts Trail weekend.
Explore the work of over 50 artists and makers as they open their studios and shared spaces throughout the Port Macquarie-Hastings Region and follow a map online. For more details log on to www.hastingsartstrail.com.
Recovery centres encourage locals to ask for help
By Pauline CAIN
FLOOD Recovery Centres on the Mid North Coast have assisted more than 9500 people in the past few weeks.
Various local and state organisations are on-hand to provide assistance with ID documentation, accommodation, legal and financial support, insurance and mental health support.
Centres have operated this past week at the Indoor Basketball Stadium on Hibbard Drive in Port Macquarie, Kempsey Showground, and 39 Prince Street in Macksville.
Former NSW Deputy
Police Commissioner Dave Owens was recently appointed the Recovery Coordinator for the Hunter and Mid North Coast.
He told News Of The Area of the need “to keep this in the front of people’s minds so that they understand this is a long term process.
“We are only in the early stages of clean-up and repairs. There is no short term fix,” he said.
“It is the small things that count.
“People often say I didn’t know you could do this for me.
“We need people to provide evidence - no matter what - photograph everything.”
Local farmers are particularly encouraged to visit a recovery centre to ask for help.
Minister for Recovery, Small Business and the North Coast Janelle Saffin, said in a statement that 53 affected suburbs and localities have been added to the initial 142.
More than 31,000 people have successfully applied for personal hardship assistance and applications have now been extended until 21 July.
Red Cross shift supervisor at Wauchope Recovery Centre Libby Rooney, said there is a process of “Look,
Listen, Link” to match appropriate services with individual needs.
The NSW Reconstruction Authority, Service NSW, Services Australia, local councils, Primary Industries and Regional Development, and other general and local support services, are all gathered in the one place to provide specialised support to make the process of recovery easier.
All aboard for youth support
By Sis HIGGINS
LOCAL teenagers across the Hastings region are finding a new source of connection, support, and fun, all thanks to the bright yellow 4YP Smiley Bus and its dedicated crew.
The 4YP Youth Resilience and Wellbeing Program is a notfor-profit initiative developed by Hastings Neighbourhood Services, which operates the Port Macquarie, Wauchope, and Lake Cathie neighbourhood centres.
The bus is a mobile drop-in service, bringing support directly to young people where they already hang out.
Recognising a gap in services for adolescents, the program was born out of a desire to meet teens where they are, both physically and emotionally.
With existing programs already catering
to babies, young children and adults, the need for a teen-focused service became clear.
Initially formed by social worker Paul Condon and a former colleague, the team set out to create an alternative to rigid, appointment-based support models.
“We come to the community... rather than a typical 9am-5pm program requiring planning, appointments and transport,” Paul said.
He now works alongside teacher Amy Trotter to deliver weekly pop-up sessions.
The bus stops at
Laurieton sports fields every Tuesday and the Lake Cathie skate park every Thursday from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.
Each visit includes a free BBQ, with sausage sizzles or cheese toasties, music, sport, games, and most importantly, non-judgemental conversations and wellbeing check-ins.
While the primary audience is 12 to 18-year-olds, the service welcomes all ages, from children to adults, who want to connect or learn more about local support options.
As a pilot program, 4YP is currently funded
by the NSW State Government but relies heavily on community support to keep the bus rolling and is
“We… are always open to new sponsorship and donors.
“As a pilot program, funding for our project will be reviewed for the new financial year..
“With our growing presence and success in the community, we are excited and hopeful to continue our work with local youth.”
Locals are encouraged to get behind 4YP, by spreading the word, donating, or simply showing up.
Intro to Pottery Wheel: $150 for two hours scheduled monthly
Clay with Me, Parent & Child Pottery Wheel: $150 per duo, 2 hrs, monthly
Hand building sessions: approx $100 per 2 hours workshop monthly
4 Week courses: $375, scheduled monthly
Private lessons available: $185 pp/1.5 hours
3/1a Blackbutt Road, Port Macquarie info@theseedartschool.com theseedartschool.com 6581 1532
Amy told News Of The Area, “if you wish to support [our] work and the 4YP smiley bus program, you can do so by visiting, liking and sharing our Facebook page and Instagram, by letting the young people in your lives know about us, and by coming to see us on Tuesdays and Thursdays - while we are out and about.
“Our community outreach is consistently growing, with weekly regulars and new attendees, and we are delighted to be able to provide this valuable service to the young people in our community.”
q Social worker and co-founder of 4YP Paul Condon. Photo: supplied.
q Amy Trotter is all smiles for the youth program. Photo: supplied.
q Paul and Amy are ready for chats, games and a feed by the smiley bus. Photo: supplied.
q Red Cross volunteers Libby Rooney (Ulladulla) and Lyndall Nairn (Port Macquarie) at the Wauchope Flood Recovery Centre.
Yvonne Kiely with Asha The Tree of Life Koala at Belle Property
Library launches dyslexia-friendly collection
By Sis HIGGINS
DECODABLE readers, now recognised as an effective tool for supporting early and struggling readers, will form a new permanent collection in the children’s section of local libraries.
The resources will be distributed across Port Macquarie, Laurieton, and Wauchope branches, ensuring access for families throughout
the Hastings and Camden Haven regions.
The readers will be officially launched at Port Macquarie Library on Saturday 26 July at 11am.
The event will include presentations by Kelly King from SPELD NSW and Dyslexia Mid North Coast, and Jess Manton from Specialist Education Service in Port Macquarie.
Personal accounts of
learning with dyslexia will also be shared.
This communityfocused event will highlight the importance of early intervention, accessible resources, and local support networks for those navigating the challenges of dyslexia.
With one in five children experiencing difficulty due to dyslexia, the launch aims to raise awareness, share upto-date research, and offer practical support to local families and educators.
The event is free and open to all members of the community.
q Some of the library’s literary wonders.
Charity race day organisers ‘tickled pink’ by support
By Bill HARROW
LOCAL businesses rallied behind Tuesday’s Bravehearts charity race day, generously sponsoring each of the seven races.
Naming rights were snapped up, resulting in the Coolcene Air Maiden, Dittos Keep Safe Adventure Shows Maiden, Divine Experiences Country Plate, Stone Real Estate Handicap, Port Macquarie Golf Club Maiden Plate, Seasalt and Rocksalt at The Marina Handicap and The Witchy Nook Class 1 Handicap.
“We were so thrilled
that local businesses put their hands in their pockets to support the Bravehearts cause,” Jenny Watts, president of Bravehearts Port Macquarie, told News Of The Area.
Bravehearts is an Australian child protection organisation, solely dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse.
Ditto is the Bravehearts mascot and was on hand to see Tickle Me Pink take out the race named after him.
The cleverly named filly is owned by a syndicate of 18 women.
One of the co-owners, Irene Balkema, was on hand to accept the winner’s sash. The Bravehearts committee fitted out the function room for the fundraiser, ensuring everything ran smoothly, with the day said to be a huge success.
Jenny added, “If we just save one child, it’s all worth it.”
q Irene Balkema, Jenny Watts, jockey Luke Rolls, Tickle Me Pink, and Rick Balkema.
Original artwork titled ‘Gilay’ Gamilaraay meaning ‘Moon’, by Katarina Mane
5O%OFF
Madagascar: The Musical
Wednesday 9 July, 10.30am & 2.30pm
Thursday 10 July, 10.30am
Looking Back Moving Forward... bringing the past with us
On view: 19 July - 21 September
Official opening: Saturday 19 July, 11am. Free event. Bookings essential.
Enjoy all the benefits for the rest of the year for half the price! Visit our website for more info and to join.
Abbalanche - The Australian ABBA Tribute Show Saturday 19 July, 8pm
The Best of the Bee Gees: Saturday Night Fever
Friday 25 July, 7.30pm
IN THE GALLERY
Hottest Hot August Night - Hits of Neil Diamond & Olivia Newton-John Saturday 26 July, 7.30pm
Landescape: Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Collection
On view until 13 July
Residue + Response: Tamworth Textile Triennial Exhibition
On view until 13 July
Sprouts Holiday Fun
Thursday 10 & 17 July, 10am & 3pm
Photo: Pedro Greig
Port’s ‘Rudyard Kipling of the South Pacific’
By Pauline CAIN
THE descendants of a “world famous author” have gathered in Port Macquarie to mark 170 years since his birth.
Louis Becke was born in 1855 and lived close to the sea at the corner of William and Owen streets.
Dubbed “the most famous writer about the Pacific” by fellow author James Michener, he produced 35 novels, novellas and non fiction books, and over 400 stories and articles.
His childhood in Port Macquarie introduced him to the sea.
He was a keen fisherman and sailor from an early age and by the time he was 20, he had sailed to San Francisco; was a stow away on a ship to Samoa; and had
a brief stint on the goldfields in Queensland.
The next 10 years were marked by his adventures as an island trader.
Dr Chrystopher J. Spicer is a leading authority on Louis Becke and joined around 30 people at the Historic Court House to deliver a presentation about his life.
Across the road in the Port Macquarie Museum, a display featured some of Becke’s letters.
Dr Spicer described Becke as “an intriguing person on a number of levels”.
He noted his use of "echo writing’" about sustainable fishing in the Pacific Islands and fishing management in NSW, and the fact he was raised to interact with local indigenous people, spoke several islander languages,
and was an island trader and business manager.
“Becke was an instant best seller, bigger than Robert Louis Stevenson, a friend of Henry Lawson and often referred to as the ‘Rudyard Kipling of the Pacific’,” he said.
“When Herman Melville died, ‘Moby Dick’ was unsuccessful, yet when Becke wrote the introduction for the 1901 edition he sparked a revival and ensured future success.”
David Bawden, a local member of the Louis Becke Society, came across Becke’s stories of the Hastings while a patrol officer in Papua New Guinea in the 1970s.
“Becke was telling stories in the Coogee Hotel one night, and was encouraged to write by J.F. Archibald of The Bulletin, who was there,” he said.
David now has a collection of all 35 of Becke’s books.
Family History Society celebrates 40 years
By Pauline CAIN
PORT Macquarie and Districts Family History Society is celebrating its 40th birthday with a luncheon for current and former members.
It will be held at the racecourse on Saturday 28 June.
President Diane Gillespie said, “It is a year of celebrations. We’re not just having afternoon tea and a birthday cake.
“As a history group we have recorded the history of people/families/events and now it is time to work on our own history.
“Our magazine is celebrating a decade each quarter [of] this year, using meeting minutes (which are kept at the museum), scrapbooks and publications.”
Secretary Jennifer Mullin said they have been celebrating at each meeting with a gift for members, homemade biscuits, bookmarks and flowers, and this month, a birthday cake.
“We also had a guest speaker, Martyn Killion (Director of Collections, Executive Director State Records NSW) talking about family history - past, present and future.”
Publicity Officer Karen Quinn said the society is embracing the digital world, given 90 percent of family history information is online.
“We are starting an AI group and our research coordinator Peter Day is encouraging the use of ChatGPT to transcribe stories in his ‘something new and different’ sessions.”
PMDFHS members meet at the CC MacAdams Music Centre in Gordon Street
and also have a research home at the Port Macquarie Hastings Library where there is a display that follows the society’s footsteps.
They have a strong membership of 176, with some from Sydney, Victoria, the ACT and New Zealand, who zoom into meetings. There are a number of specialty groups based on personal interests, and “beginners” and “next steps” courses.
q Society founders Cheryl Perry and Barbara Robins. Photo: supplied
q PMDFHS members Secretary Jennifer Mullin, President Diane Gillespie and Publicity Officer Karen. Photo: Pauline Cain.
q Dr Chrystopher J Spicer in Port Macquarie with David Bawden ahead of the 170th birthday celebrations.
q Louis Becke (1855-1913).
Photo: from the book ‘Louis Becke’ by Professor Grove Day (decd).
Port Mac Goss: Mark Stone
By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS
THIS week’s edition of Port Mac Goss features Mark Stone, who has owned and operated Billabong Zoo with his family since 2003.
Mark, what is it like running a zoo with your family?
My wife Danena and I are owners and directors of the business. Brooke and Blake, my kids, are hands-on managers. Like any business, as you get bigger and bigger there is more administration
and paperwork to do, which can pull you away from why you started the business in the first place. Our passion is the animals. Blake and Brooke still have regular connections [with the animals] throughout the day and Danena and I try to get our animal "fixes" whenever we can. With our granddaughter, she is the fourth generation and therefore a "junior" zookeeper.
Where were you located before you purchased Billabong Zoo and what was the tipping point for
that decision?
My parents owned and operated the Shoalhaven Wildlife Park; we were there working for 25 years. It is now known as Shoalhaven Zoo. Before we decided to purchase Billabong Zoo, we actually looked at a zoo in Queensland (Alma Park Zoo) which is no longer in existence. On our way back to Shoalhaven, we checked out Coffs Harbour zoo, which had been on and off the market. We called in to see them and just happened to be driving past Billabong Zoo. From that,
we called the Boffa family to see if they would sell. From a simple phone call, they said if we were serious about it they would consider it. So, here we are!
What is the aim of the zoo from a conservation perspective?
Our mission statement is “Conservation through education”. There has to be a reason why we have animals in captivity. And the reason for our animals to be here in captivity is because they are ambassadors for their species, so that we can teach people about their plight in the wild. It is easier to do so when people can physically see the animals and you can really hit home with those messages for conservation.
Billabong Zoo is not just for tourists visiting our region. Locals are more than welcome, aren't they?
Absolutely. The tourism market is secondary to our local visitation. What we look for is for the local support to keep us financially stable and the visitors are the cream on top. The tourists also bring money to the whole region. We are very passionate about sharing the love with all our other tourism partners and
bringing money into the area and supporting the local LGA.
Guests can even sometimes visit the zoo at night. What is that experience like?
The night functions we have done in the past have been massively successful and the feedback from the night zoos is outstanding. Eventually, we will do night zoos throughout the summertime as a regular event. To see the animals at night is a different ballgame and very special, and we want to share this with the general public. Some animals are also more active at night.
Congratulations on winning the Tourism and Attractions category at the 2025 Business Port Macquarie Awards. It must be satisfying for your family and team to be recognised as a top tourist destination?
It is very humbling to receive any form of accolade. They are very important in a lot of ways. For staff morale as well as for our own, as the tourism industry is a tough industry. Anyone in the industry would understand that, and to get a little pat on the back from your peers and the industry is an amazing thing and certainly helps push us forward and keep us going.
q The Stone family.
q Mark Stone.
Heartbeat of the Hastings: Elsa Barbosa
By Chan ANSELL
BORN and raised in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, Elsa Barbosa arrived on Australian shores in 1983 aged just 17.
“I cried all the way on the plane,” she said.
“I was leaving my friends behind and it was so hard.”
Despite that tough start in Australia, Elsa always had a strong desire to help others.
“There’s no better feeling than knowing that giving
a little can mean a lot to someone else,” she said.
Elsa moved to Port Macquarie seven years ago and instantly felt at home.
“From day one I fell in love with the region,” she said.
“The people, the beauty, the lifestyle - I just knew this was my place.”
Through her business, Port AdVenture Cruises, Elsa and her team regularly host events for local charities.
One of those charities was child protection group
Bravehearts.
After working with them on an event, Elsa knew she wanted to do more.
“I was so passionate about what they do that I joined their small but active local team,” she explained.
Elsa’s also on the board of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association, where she helps advocate for the industry and support local operators.
“What I love most about volunteering is that it’s
genuinely rewarding,” she said.
“It feels good to know you’re making a difference, especially for those who might just need a helping hand.”
Elsa is also now a presenter on 2WayFM, something she never saw coming.
“If you’d told me I’d be on
the radio, I would’ve laughed and said, ‘no way!’” she said.
“But here I am, 18 months in and absolutely loving it.”
Her show with her partner Dave Lazarus“Talking Entertainment with David and Elsa” - has quickly become a local favourite.
“When people stop me in the street and say they’ve heard the show – it’s honestly
the best compliment,” Elsa said.
Her hopes for the region for the next year?
“No floods, no cyclones... and maybe world peace,” she said with a smile.
“We’re so lucky to live in Port Macquarie. I just hope we can all enjoy it, live normally, and that the tough stuff is behind us now.”
Firewood collection authorisations required
FORESTRY Corporation
is reminding residents to purchase firewood authorisations before collecting wood from State forests.
Recent updates have been made to Forestry Corporation’s online firewood permit page.
The conditions for firewood collection have also been updated and should be understood prior to entering State forests.
The system now distinguishes some locations between pine and native hardwood forests, making firewood collection easier for authorisation holders.
“State forests in NSW continue to offer the public an affordable way of collecting firewood, with authorisations ranging from $8 to $30 per tonne depending on location, with pensioner discounts also available," Forestry Corporation’s Governance Officer – Forests and Land, Melanie Klootwijk said.
"These prices have remained stable for many years, which is important for regional communities in cooler climates where firewood is essential for heating," she said.
Authorisations allow the public to collect between one and three tonnes of firewood per visit,
depending on the location.
Each selected forest collection area is clearly mapped when applying for an authorisation.
The areas available for firewood collection change each year and are generally areas where timber harvesting has taken place.
Firewood can only be collected from the ground - felling standing trees is strictly prohibited.
Authorisation holders must print maps of the collection areas and carry the map when collecting firewood to avoid confusion
and penalty notices up to $200 if found not to be adhering to the permit conditions
Forestry Corporation urges authorisation holders to practice safe chainsaw use and wear protective equipment.
Firewood collection is prohibited during Solid Fuel Fire bans - authorisations cannot be used when a ban is active, even if purchased beforehand.
For more information visit www. forestrycorporation.com. au.
q Authorisations allow the public to collect between one and three tonnes of firewood per visit, depending on the location.
q Elsa and Dave on the airwaves.
A celebration of 300 years of life
By Chan ANSELL
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL tunes, sea breezes and 60 smiling faces filled the deck of Port AdVenture Cruises on Sunday, 15 June, as four much-loved locals celebrated a combined 300 years of life.
The two 70-year-olds and two 80-year-olds marked the milestone in true Hastings style - with music, mateship, and a whole lot of fun.
Neroli Reid, 70, grew
up in Rollands Plains, before later settling in Port Macquarie, raising a family and launching a real estate career that spanned almost three decades.
“Seeing buyers’ faces light up still gives me a buzz,” she said.
She speaks with pride of her two sons, and the friendships she has maintained over the years.
“I’ve got the bestest friends, truly,” she said.
Her plans for the years ahead include more dancing, more travel, and more moments that “make life magic”.
Sharing the birthday spotlight was Rohan Smith, 70, who first crossed paths with Neroli in 2004 when she sold him a farm in Rollands Plains.
Originally from Griffith, Rohan came to the region chasing a quieter life.
Now settled in Port
Macquarie, he is enjoying the coastal lifestyle and giving back through his part-time work at Ramsay Private Hospital.
“I’m in the twilight of my life, and I’m loving every minute of it,” the father of three and grandfather of seven said.
Rohan plans to retire soon, with travel plans to visit family in Canada.
Celebrating his 80th birthday was Bruce Hardy,
who swapped Sydney for sea breezes after a 40-year telecommunications career with Telstra.
“Why would you go anywhere else?” he said of his Port Macquarie home.
A regular at local new vogue and rock-and-roll dance nights, Bruce is known for his smooth moves and big smile.
“Dancing keeps me young,” he said.
Another of Bruce’s
passions is vintage cars, which led him to meet his partner of 12 years, Roselyn Winwood-Smith, who also celebrated her 80th birthday on board the cruise.
Born in Guyra, raised in Narrabri and Sydney, and later based in Forbes, Roselyn’s passion for fashion led her to teaching roles at TAFE.
She moved to Port Macquarie in 1983 and quickly became a well-known local, running the much-loved Pacific Video later Network Video on Short Street.
Still full of energy, dancing remains a major source of joy.
“I may not be around for the next 80 years,” she said, “but I’ll keep dancing and seeing the world as long as I can.”
Between dancing, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of laughter, guests tucked into fresh wraps, birthday cake, ice cream, and lolly platters.
Treasurer throws down gauntlet for 'crucial' tax reform
By Jacob SHTEYMAN, AAP
THE groundwork has been laid for Australia's most substantive attempt at tax reform in more than two decades as the treasurer promises to "grasp the nettle" on the thorny issue.
Outlining his government's economic agenda for its second term of parliament, Jim Chalmers threw down the gauntlet to industry, media, civil society and the political class to find genuine consensus in a speech to the National Press Club.
While defending Labor's progress, including changes to merger and competition laws, the treasurer argued Australia needed to go further to boost stagnant productivity, bring the budget into balance and make the economy more resilient.
Long called-for tax reform will be on the agenda at a productivity roundtable
in August that will seek to "shape the direction for longterm economic reform".
"This is all about testing the country's reform appetite," Dr Chalmers said on Wednesday.
"I am prepared to do my bit, the government is prepared to do its bit, and what we'll find out in the course of the next few months is whether everyone is prepared to do their bit as well."
He challenged the media not to play a game of "rule-in, rule-out", which he said had a "cancerous" effect on policy debate and robbed the nation of the flexibility and maturity to respond to big challenges.
The only pre-conditions for reform were that proposals must be in the national interest, specific and practical, and when taken together improve the budget bottom line.
Dr Chalmers previously flagged removing onerous red tape to fix Australia's
Discover the all new
productivity slump.
But calls for tax reform have grown louder as an ageing population erodes revenues and places increasing demands on the health and aged care budgets.
"No sensible progress can be made on productivity, resilience or budget sustainability without proper consideration of more tax reform," Dr Chalmers said.
Reform would also be targeted at lowering the burden on personal income tax, increasing the incentive to work, simplifying the tax system and improving intergenerational equity.
Dr Chalmers did not confirm whether opposition politicians will be invited to the roundtable, but limited space in the 25-seat cabinet room will keep the attendance list concise.
The roundtable will be a "genuine attempt" to build consensus, he said, after business groups criticised 2022's Jobs and Skills Summit
as a Labor tool to rubberstamp unions' wishlists for workplace reforms.
The treasurer promised to consider any good ideas, but rolling back Labor's changes to industrial relations laws - including multi-employer bargaining - won't be on the table.
Cutting the company tax rate or providing more tax incentives for investment are expected to be at the top of priority lists for business groups after the issue was floated by Productivity Commissioner Danielle Wood.
Dr Chalmers knows intimately the challenges governments face in attempting ambitious reform.
As an adviser to thentreasurer Wayne Swan, he worked on Labor's carbon tax that was ultimately repealed by Tony Abbott after the coalition won the 2013 election.
Dr Chalmers said he was realistic but optimistic about
his chances of success.
"Let's see what we can achieve together if we genuinely listen to each other, we genuinely try and find common ground, and try and engage in some of these difficult trade-offs," he said.
Opposition productivity spokesman Andrew Bragg agreed it was better for all
politicians to work together on fixing Australia's economic challenges.
"I think the Australian people will get better value from all of us if we're able to collaborate and we remain prepared to be very constructive in the upcoming process, whatever it looks like," he said.
q Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Photo: AAP Image/Lukas Coch.
q Rohan Smith, Neroli Reid, Roselyn Winwood-Smith and Bruce Hardy. q The deck came alive with dancing for the birthday celebration.
Casting before the clouds
By Kate SHELTON
WHILE this past week offered a delightful stretch of sunshine, allowing many to enjoy the outdoors, it appears the coming week might bring wetter conditions.
So, it was certainly a good time to get out and about while the weather was fine.
The Macleay River continues to be a prime location for fishing enthusiasts.
Anglers have been consistently finding good sized bream lurking near the breakwalls, offering a rewarding challenge. For those seeking a bit more variety, the occasional flathead has also been adding to the catch, making each outing unpredictable and exciting.
The pleasant mid-week weather conditions this past week provided an excellent window for offshore ventures.
Those who took advantage of the calmer seas
were amply rewarded with hauls of delicious pearl perch.
For those who prefer the thrill of rock fishing, keeping a keen eye on the local rock ledges is highly recommended, as longtail tuna have been spotted cruising, presenting an exciting opportunity for a powerful fight.
Port Macquarie truly lives up to its reputation as an angler's paradise, offering a wide array of options for every preference.
For those who enjoy the expansive feel of beach fishing, Lighthouse Beach stands out as a reliable spot with both tailor and good sized bream.
Alternatively, North Shore Beach presents another fantastic option, where anglers can reel in a diverse range of species including bream, school mulloway and tailor.
When fishing these beaches, beach worms continue to prove themselves as a highly effective and
reliable bait choice.
In the Hastings River this week the breakwalls and Limeburners Creek remain particularly popular locations, consistently yielding luderick, making for an easy and enjoyable haul for those seeking a steady catch.
Mulloway enthusiasts will be thrilled by the ongoing reports of solid fish, with some exceeding ten kilos, providing an exhilarating challenge for experienced anglers.
The good news doesn't stop there.
Flathead activity within the river has notably picked up, with hard-bodied lures proving exceptionally effective in enticing these fish.
Offshore anglers also capitalised on last weekend’s superb conditions.
The reefs were abundant with both snapper and pearl perch, leading to incredibly rewarding catches.
For those venturing into
deeper waters deep dropping proved highly successful, with the ridge holding significant schools of kingfish.
Even further out, some impressive catches of blueeye trevalla and bass groper were reported.
Down in Camden Haven, the recent cooler water temperatures have provided a welcome extension to the drummer season for a few more weeks, much to the delight of local anglers.
Heading towards the southern rock ledges offers an excellent chance to hook into a drummer, along with tailor and school mulloway.
For the keen lobster enthusiasts, keeping a close watch on the upcoming forecast.
Periods of calm seas coupled with westerly winds create the perfect conditions for some local lobster diving around the headlands, presenting an exciting opportunity to gather these delectable crustaceans.
Veterans given free vehicle access to National Parks
By Simon EKINS
THE Minns Government is extending free vehicle access to National Parks to all Commonwealth Veteran Card holders.
Park entry fees for motor vehicles apply at 45 of NSW's 895 national parks and reserves. A 2025-26 budget measure will enable veterans from around Australia to apply for a pass to enter for free.
The pass is currently available to some Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card holders.
This decision will ensure that all DVA card holders can apply, including those with a White Card or Orange Card.
National Parks and reserves in NSW conserve close to 10 percent of the state, protecting unique ecosystems across deserts, alpine regions, coastal areas, rainforest and Ramsar-listed wetlands.
Only five percent of parks and reserves in NSW have vehicle entry fees.
They range from $4 to $12 a day, and up to $29 a day for Kosciuszko National Park in winter.
“Our veterans have given so much to Australia; this is about giving something small but meaningful back,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“Access to nature can have a powerful impact on wellbeing, and we’re proud to reward more veterans with free vehicle entry to enjoy these incredible places.
“The invitation to visit the best National Parks in the country extends to all those who’ve served our nation – whether from NSW or interstate.”
Minister for Veterans David Harris said, “Veterans served in defence of this great
land, so it makes sense that they have earned free access to our beautiful national parks.
“We know that many NSW servicemen and servicewomen carry injuries or mental and emotional impacts from their service, so it is important to make it easier for them to access the restorative powers of our state’s great outdoors.”
Commonwealth DVA Veteran Card holders will be able to apply for the pass from Monday, 7 July 2025, by visiting https://pass. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/ concession/application.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service also offers discount or concession annual passes for eligible seniors, pensioners and visitors who renew their NSW vehicle registration.
q Tony Adorini with a 27kg Bass Groper caught off Port Macquarie on a Bay Explorer Marine deep drop rig.
q A family runs towards the sea at Booti Booti National Park, where park entry fees for motor vehicles apply. Photo: John Spencer/DPIE.
The first astronomers: Australia’s Indigenous stargazers
By David RENEKE, Astronomer
LONG before observatories dotted the land and satellites blinked overhead, the First Peoples of Australia were reading the stars.
For over 65,000 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have looked to the sky - not for abstraction, but for connection, direction, and survival.
Theirs is the oldest continuous astronomical tradition on Earth.
To these communities, the stars weren’t distant curiosities.
They were living knowledge systems, entwined with daily life.
Far more than campfire stories, these were calendars, compasses, governance tools, and moral codes - passed down through generations in song, ceremony, and story.
Each of the 250-plus language groups across the continent held its own celestial map.
Where Western astronomy joins stars into constellations like Orion or the Southern Cross, Indigenous stargazers
focused on the spaces between the stars.
A striking example is the Emu in the Sky - not formed from stars, but from the dark dust lanes of the Milky Way.
When this shadowy emu appeared to be running across the sky, it signalling that emus were laying eggsan important seasonal food cue.
The sky wasn't just a spectacle; it was a guidebook.
The Yolŋu people of Arnhem Land share the story of Walu, the Sun-woman, who carries her torch across the sky each day - explaining daylight, warmth, and the passage of time.
The moon, too, is a character: Ngalindi, the Moon-man, was once strong and full, but after being attacked by his wives, his form waned.
He eventually died, only to rise again - a poetic teaching of the lunar cycle. No telescopes were needed.
Patience, observation, and story did the work.
This wisdom is preserved through songlines - oral maps linking land, stars, and lore.
A songline may describe a journey across the country,
guiding a traveller past waterholes and ridges, while also tracing constellations overhead.
To walk a songline is to walk in tune with culture, cosmos, and country.
For Ghillar Michael Anderson, a Euahlayi elder and leading voice in Indigenous astronomy, the sky was a classroom.
“When I was a kid,” he recalls, “we would lie on our backs at night, and the old fellas would point to the sky and tell us who we are, where we came from, and what’s coming next.”
Today, modern science is starting to listen.
Physicists and astronomers are recognising that many Aboriginal sky stories align with observable phenomena - from eclipses and meteor strikes to tidal patterns.
The Wolfe Creek crater in Western Australia, for instance, is explained in Jaru and Walmajarri lore as the spot where the Rainbow Serpent crashed to Earth - a striking echo of the actual meteorite impact.
Efforts are underway to integrate this knowledge into mainstream education and
Marlins give finals chances a boost
By Aiden BURGESS
SCU Marlins have given their finals chances a boost with a 42-21 win at home against the Kempsey Cannonballs, during the latest round of the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season.
The Marlins moved into fourth spot on the ladder, five points clear of the fifth-placed Hastings Valley Vikings.
The ladder leading Coffs Harbour Snappers went down 26-22 to the Grafton Redmen in Grafton.
The Port Macquarie Pirates moved within one
point of top spot after a 2810 win in their local derby against the Hastings Valley Vikings.
The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season continues this weekend with Round 10 games in Coffs Harbour and Kempsey.
Coffs Harbour Snappers and Port Macquarie Pirates face off in their top of the ladder showdown at Coffs Rugby Park.
The Pirates had a 24-15 win when they last met in Round 5.
SCU Marlins host the Hastings Valley Vikings at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.
The Vikings were 17-
9 Laurieton Mall,
Laurieton
Lots of beautiful cuddly jackets
research.
Universities and the CSIRO are collaborating with elders to explore how traditional sky knowledge complements contemporary science.
Schools are now teaching Aboriginal and Western star lore side by side, not as rivals but as layers of understanding.
Even observatories are
10 winners when they last played in Round 5.
Kempsey Cannonballs host the Grafton Redmen.
The Cannonballs were 15-12 winners when they last played.
First grade ladder. 1.Coffs Harbour Snappers. 29 points. 5 wins. 1 draw. 2 losses.
108 (points differential).
2.Port Macquarie Pirates. 28 points. 5 wins. 1 draw. 1 loss. 110 (p.d). 3.Grafton Redmen. 22 points. 4 wins. 1 draw. 3 losses. 7 (p.d). 4.SCU Marlins. 16 points. 2 wins. 1 draw. 4 losses. -8 (p.d).
5.Hastings Valley Vikings, 11 points. 2 wins. 1 draw. 4 losses. -47 (p.d). 6.Kempsey Cannonballs. 7 points. 1 win. 1 draw. 5 losses. -170 (p.d).
evolving.
At the Sydney Observatory, visitors now hear Aboriginal sky stories alongside views through telescopes.
It’s a welcome reminder that curiosity about the cosmos isn’t new - it’s deeply human and deeply ancient.
For too long, this rich knowledge was dismissed as myth rather than method.
But as we charge ahead into space tourism and AI-driven science, there’s growing respect for old ways of knowing.
As elder David Mowaljarlai once said, “Our law is not written in books. It is written in the earth and in the sky.” It’s still there - waiting to be read.
q The Emu in the Sky - not formed from stars, but from the dark dust lanes of the Milky Way.
Expo to run again in 2026
THE Ageing Well Expo hosted at the Laurieton United Services Club (LUSC) on Tuesday, 10 June was an overwhelming success, focusing on the topics of health, lifestyle, and future planning.
“Our community came together to explore, learn, and connect, with over 30 local businesses, support groups, and community services on hand to showcase the many ways we can all live healthier, happier lives,” said organiser Michelle Freeman.
“The event welcomed a fantastic turnout of locals throughout the day - browsing stalls,
attending presentations, and gathering helpful tips for mind, body, wellbeing, and planning for the future.”
From yoga and meditation to aged care services, mobility aids, legal advice, nutrition, end of life planning, and more - there was something for everyone.
“A huge thank you goes to all the exhibitors who gave their time and expertise, to the volunteers who helped things run
smoothly, and most importantly to all those who came along on the day,” Michelle said.
“The atmosphere was friendly, supportive, and buzzing with positive energy - a true testament to the strength of our local community.”
Michelle also thanked the event’s major sponsors - Simplicity Funerals and News Of The Area - whose support helped make this
Following positive feedback from attendees, organisers have announced that the Ageing Well, Living Well & End of Life Planning Expo will return in June 2026.
“We look forward to building an even bigger and better event, with new stalls, fresh ideas, and more opportunities to support one another in living our best lives,” Michelle said.
“Keep an eye on News Of The Area, our Facebook page, and community noticeboards for more details early next year.
“And if your business or group would like to be involved in the next expo, we’d love to hear from you.”
q Michelle Freeman and some of the Simplicity Funerals team at the expo.
q Michelle with some of the services and businesses showcased at the expo.
MACQUARIE
By Kim AMBROSE
PETER Vincent’s coaching expertise
has earned him more silverware, leading the NSW Men's 50s team to victory in the Touch Football State of Origin (SOO) series.
The 2025 SOO series was decided at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, coming right down to the wire.
NSW and Queensland teams faced off in a best-of-three format across 18 divisions, with the greatest
Knight leads NSW to series win Vincent leads side to Origin win
By Kim AMBROSE
number of division wins determining the title holders.
NSW retained the title in dramatic fashion.
Needing to win all four must-win games to tie the series and regain the title, NSW did just that as it finished deadlocked at nine series wins each.
NSW retained the title due to being the previous winners.
It was the tenth straight series won by NSW dating back to 2004.
Despite NSW’s tight
overall win, Vincent’s side was the sole NSW senior male team to clinch victory in their interstate best-of-three battle.
“[We had] three games played over two days with each game needing a result,” he said.
“The Men's 50s won their first game 7-5.
“The second game was 3-3 at full time with NSW scoring in extra time to win 4-3.
“Unfortunately injuries in the second game left us with only eleven fit players
for game three and Queensland won 8-6.”
This meant the Men’s 50s side prevailed 2-1 in the three game series.
“This was especially pleasing as the other six senior men's sides lost,” Peter said.
Undoubtedly, Peter’s illustrious background in representative Touch Football, including an impressive 85 appearances for NSW both as a player and coach, along with 64 caps for Australia, played a significant role in guiding his side to success.
CAMDEN Haven’s Kobie Knight scored two spectacular tries to lead her NSW Women’s 45s side to victory over Queensland in the Touch Football State of Origin (SOO) series.
She also spurred her state on to a remarkable comeback win in the series.
As the tournament approached the pointy end, Queensland looked assured of a series win, having claimed nine out of 18 divisions, compared to NSW’s five.
This left just four divisions undecided - the Women’s 45s, Mixed Open, Women’s Open and Men’s Open.
Queensland needed just one more division win to claim the shield.
With the imminent threat of a Queensland series victory, local touch star Kobie Knight employed her signature dive to score two pivotal tries in the Women’s 45s decider, propelling her side to a 4-2 victory.
“In game one we went down to Queensland 4-3 in extra time,” Kobie said.
“But we won our second game and the decider 4-2.
“I managed to score three tries in the series, including three tries in the final.”
The win laid the foundation for a historic NSW comeback win in the series.
play for NSW again and help the
Makos make mark in State of Origin
By Kim AMBROSE
PORT Makos Touch Association was well represented as the Touch Football State of Origin series was contested in Coffs Harbour over the weekend.
Considered one of Touch Football's fiercest rivalries, NSW emerged victorious on the 30th year anniversary of the series.
This action unfolded on 20 and 21 June at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
Thirty-six teams competed across eighteen divisions in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Opens, as well as aged divisions from 20s to 60s.
A number of Port Makos Touch Association players and coaches represented NSW.
Matt Bale, Nick Bale and Kimberley Latimore played in the Mixed Opens category, Tahney Luck in the Women’s 35 division, and Kobie Knight in the Women’s 45s.
Dave Stone also led the Men’s 20s team as coach, with Peter Vincent leading the Men’s
Breakers go top of the ladder
By Aiden BURGESS
COFFS Harbour Breakers have gone to the top of the ladder with a big win against the Port Macquarie Magpies, during the latest round of the AFL North Coast season.
The Breakers dominated the Magpies 14.15 (99) to 3.9 (27) at Fitzroy Oval, as they overtook them at the top of the seniors ladder.
The Breakers have won both games against the Magpies this season.
Elsewhere, the Grafton Tigers won by forfeit against the Macleay Valley Eagles.
Reserves
Northern Beaches Blues maintained their perfect start to the season, after having a 12.10 (82) to 5.5 (35) win against the Nambucca Valley Lions at the Wiigulga Sports Complex.
Coffs Harbour Breakers had a 9.9 (63) to 3.8 (26) win at home against the Port Macquarie Magpies.
Women’s
Coffs Harbour Breakers maintained top spot on the ladder with an 8.13 (61) to 1.0 (6) win against the Port Macquarie Magpies at Fitzroy Oval.
Sawtell/Toormina Saints
Port Makos president Wayne Gleeson expressed pride in the accomplishments of the Association's representatives.
"It’s a great achievement for the Makos to have both players and coaches selected for the State of Origin series,” said Wayne.
“We are extremely proud of their achievements, from Kobie performing her classic dive, twice, in the decider of the Women’s 45s, to Vino (Peter Vincent) getting the
consolidated second spot on the ladder after having a 3.5 (23) to 3.2 (20) win against the Northern Beaches Blues in Woolgoolga. Under 18s Port Macquarie Magpies had their sixth win from as many games this season, keeping their unbeaten record intact with a 13.16 (94) to 3.4 (22) result against the Coffs Harbour Breakers.
Sawtell/Toormina Saints consolidated second spot on the ladder with a 10.12 (72) to 7.5 (47) win against the Northern Beaches Blues.
The AFL North Coast season takes this weekend off for representative games in Gunnedah.
Seniors ladder. 1. Coffs Harbour Breakers. 16 points. 4 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 66.66. 213.86%. 2. Port Macquarie Magpies. 12 points. 3 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 60. 156.06%. 3. Sawtell/Toormina Saints. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 50. 96.48%. 4. Macleay Valley Eagles. 8 points. 2 wins. 2 losses. Match ratio: 50. 54.99%. 5. Grafton Tigers. 4 points. 1 win. 4 losses. Match ratio: 20. 56.30%.
Men’s 50s over the line with his management and coaching expertise.
“Dave Stone was unlucky as coach of the Men’s 20s losing the decider after a couple of drop offs.
“As were Kimberley, Nick, Matt and Tahney who, despite losing out, came together and delivered for their respective teams when needed.
“All our representatives should all be super proud of themselves, as the Port Makos certainly are.”
q Peter Vincent (right) with Steve ‘Beaver’ Menzies from the NSW Men’s 50s team. Photo: supplied.
“It was such a great experience to
Blues retain the shield over Queensland,” Kobie said.
q Winners are ginners: Kobie Knight celebrating her win. Photo: supplied.
50s team.
q Port Makos Touch players (L-R) Matt Bale, Tahney Luck, Kimberley Latimore and Nick Bale during the presentation of their NSW jerseys. Photo: supplied.
Spectacular fail
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE greatest strategy employed by weak leaders is the art of distraction.
While this week’s MAGA focus has been on the US’s “spectacular” bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, Israel’s genocidal annihilation of Palestine continues.
While our PM’s support for the highly questionable US
action was sadly predictable, any justification must seem pretty ridiculous from the perspective of surrounding countries in the Middle East.
The real long term existential threat in the region has arguably been the extremist Netanyahu government, an obvious US proxy, with its ongoing unhindered military annihilation of not only Gaza but forays into neighboring Lebanon, Syria,
Yemen, and now Iran. Remember Netanyahu was pivotal in the US (and Australia’s) invasion of Iraq and has made no secret of his personal 40 year agenda to bomb Iran.
The world also seems to have forgotten about Israel’s ‘illegal’ nuclear arsenal estimated to be between 100 to 200 warheads.
While our opposition leader Ley seems to have lost her tongue, spokesperson Andrew Hastie made the extraordinary
claim that adherence to the rules based order is just ‘nostalgia’! Really? So we are to embrace chaos and stupidity?
We wouldn’t allow that on the sporting field, so why in real life.
At least Greens leader Larissa Waters and Independent Jacqui Lambie have made clear and concise statements which appear to have an honest grasp of the situation.
Regards, Dave WOO
Meaningless platitudes from the Treasurer
DEAR News Of The Area,
JIM Chalmers’ address to the National Press Club yesterday was filled with meaningless platitudes and uncomfortable contradictions that saw him continue his selfappointed role as a sideline commentator rather than the nation’s Treasurer.
That may have passed during the first year of his first term, but as we look down the barrel of another three years under Labor, it’s surely time to get off the bench and into the economy’s captaincy jersey which was bestowed upon him by the Australian people.
While he stopped short of blatantly admitting that the budget presented only three months ago was not fit for purpose, the message was loud and clear.
Labor’s 2025/26 budget
was an unsustainable election sweetener only, designed purely to provide enough of a sugar hit to attract votes while ignoring the real needs and challenges in our economy and its workforce.
Why else would this Government decide to hold Round Tables now, rather than before presenting the most recent budget?
Surely, after three years of successive declines in growth and productivity, to the point that we now have a GDP growth rate so low that it rivals the early90s, the writing was already on the wall, looming large in bold and red.
Perhaps if these Round Tables had occurred in year one rather than year four, we wouldn’t be dangling so close to the recession precipice.
The fact is, Jim’s budget can’t be padded by commodities pricing this time, or ‘those things
we sell overseas’ as he put it in his first budget speech, rather than saying ‘our mining and agricultural industries’, as though those were dirty words.
So now, to pay for those election promises and sugar hits, the Treasurer is looking to raid the Self-Managed Super Funds of primary producers and small businesses.
The proposed Super Tax is not the ‘tax the rich’ strategy that it purports to be.
It’s the death of generational farming and a punishment for those small businesses that were working within the rules to safeguard their assets and income in retirement.
Taxing unrealised capital gains is simply not realistic and shows a complete lack of understanding for regional people in particular.
But why would we be surprised by that from a
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I WAS scrolling through the local community page on the weekend and came across a cheeky post.
The post didn't raise an eyebrow, but what did was the pile-on from adults hating on this young person.
It seems strange that people over a certain age would stoop this low.
Why are people so cruel on social media, and where are the checks and balances?
Gina T.
Dear Gina,
The vision that came to mind reading your post was of Taylor Swift in an outfit reminiscent of Jayne Torvill (from Torvill and Dean fame), skating over the hate (metaphorically) and shaking it off (literally).
Community pages, despite their mission to be fun, friendly places for people to share stories and pictures with each other, are sometimes (unfortunately) a breeding ground for behaviour that wouldn't be anticipated (or tolerated) elsewhere.
For every genuine post about a missing cat or a person needing a handyman to fix a sink, there's an unnecessarily cruel laughing emoji or a completely unrelated rant.
These attacks ensue with a level of unconnectedness akin to Bob Katter sideswiping a conversation about same sex marriage and replacing it with a focus on limbs being torn off bodies by north Queensland's crocodiles (sans Bob's adroit conversational dexterity).
This is despite very clear group rules with more good behaviour cues than a school anthem.
Are the group admins overworked? Complicit?
Government focussed only on inner city vote grabs.
Chalmers address yesterday served only to state that Labor ‘is planning to make a plan’.
How many more businesses need to shut their doors before this Government stops naval gazing and starts getting real on policy that will shift the dial.
Continuing the ‘death by a thousand cuts’ tactics that we have seen over the past three years is a cruel joke.
I urge the Treasurer to stop focussing on ‘Big Government’ and start focussing on the needs of everyday Australians.
Stop the ideology and face the reality that we are drowning in a sea of deficits with no lifeboat on the horizon.
Regards, Pat CONAGHAN, Member for Cowper.
Trying to moderate posts but really working for ASIO and taking notes on potential security breaches?
Nigel from the ATO cross-referencing cashie requests?
Retired sportsmasters (feeling dispensable, sports-related bunions, socks and sandals, more self-loathing than Sue Sylvester from Glee)?
These are questions I cannot answer, Gina.
I do know, however, that the behaviour people display in person is very different from the behaviour some people display from their keyboard.
The psychological effects of trolling are also very real, so the role of a moderator is an important one.
As is the role of an editor (if mine thinks I've been unnecessarily cruel to retired sportsmasters, I apologise for my own - until now subconscious - residual hostility over a poorly-timed balance beam transition and a lunchtime detention).
All I can suggest is to lead from the front, Gina.
Post sunsets and sunrises, help search for lost dogs, never post a picture of someone's poor parking skills, call out racism (and all the other 'isms) and don't stoop to the pettiness of mocking spelling errors in a futile game of one-upmanship.
diem, Jasminda.
Carpe
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp 043
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY GRANTCHESTER
ABC TV, 7.30pm
Take one 1950s Cambridgeshire village, add a jaded cop and a local vicar with a talent for solving crimes and you have the winning formula for this cosy murder-mystery series. After a somewhat rocky start, new vicar Alphy Kotteram (Rishi Nair) has found a home in Grantchester, and a good friend in DI Geordie Keating (Robson Green, pictured, with Nair). Season 10 begins with a double episode tonight, which sees the Easter fete upended by a suspicious death, while there might be romance on the horizon for Alphy. Then, a murder at the university uncovers some deadly academic rivalries.
FRIDAY, June 27
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America.
SATURDAY
MOVIE: BARBIE
NBN, 7.30pm, PG (2023)
Margot Robbie (pictured) stars in Greta Gerwig’s brilliantly feminist live-action take on the life of the world’s most famous plastic doll. Barbie is enjoying an idyllic life in Barbieland, a matriarchal utopia populated by impressive versions of Barbie (notably played by Issa Rae, Emma Mackey and Kate McKinnon) and equally unimpressive versions of Ken (including an unforgettable Ryan Gosling’s blonde bombshell as their de facto leader). Then one day, Barbie finds herself contemplating her own mortality and soon some very unusual things start happening to her. It seems the answers to her problems lie in the Real World, where Barbie will not only have to find a way to save herself, but also prevent a Ken uprising. It’s pink-hued perfection.
MONDAY
PARENTAL GUIDANCE
NBN, 7.30pm
Often thoughtprovoking, sometimes controversial, this parenting panel program returns for a third season with eight new families keen to get to the bottom of their child-rearing quandaries. Over four episodes, they’ll tackle screen time, peer pressure, body image and mental health – working through real-world challenges designed to test their at-times polarising parenting philosophies and discussing with the group other ways the situation could have been handled. Gold Logie nominee Allison Langdon and Dr Justin Coulson (both pictured) return to lead the conversations and take a closer look at the issues on the table. With a focus on technology and online safety, Monday’s premiere is a must-see.
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (Final)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 The One That Got Away. (Final, Mal) Helen is missing as the countdown to day seven nears and there are fears she may be the next victim.
9.25 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson.
10.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
11.20 ABC Late News.
11.35 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)
12.35 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Shetland: Scotland’s Wondrous Isles.
8.25 Ross Kemp: Shipwreck Treasure Hunter. (PGa, R)
9.20 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Atlantic Crossing. (MA15+a, R)
12.05 Exterior Night. (MA15+v, R)
3.15 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (PG, R)
4.35 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. Johanna Griggs meets an inner-city dweller. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 16. Sydney v Western Bulldogs.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews.
11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 House Of Wellness. (PGals, R) The team uncovers tips for better sleep.
12.45 Nurses. (Ma, R) A patient undergoes deep brain stimulation.
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 17. Newcastle Knights v Canberra Raiders.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Newcastle Knights versus Canberra Raiders match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: The Jackal. (1997, MA15+lv, R) A jailed Irish sniper is hired by the FBI. Bruce Willis.
1.00 Next Stop. (PGa, 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)
(83) 6am 3 Days In Quiberon. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 8.00 The Way. (2010, PG) 10.20 Sing Street. (2016, M) 12.20pm Love Proof. (2022, M, Swedish) 2.00 The Movie Show. 2.30 What Do We See When We Look At The Sky? (2021, Georgian) 5.20 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 7.30 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, M) 9.40 Margrete:
UK. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 Space Invaders. Noon MOVIE: Valentine’s Day. (2010, PG) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Batman & Robin. (1997, PG) 10.05 MOVIE: Masterminds. (2016, M) Midnight Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.30
Come
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. (Final) A look at the day’s news. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple need a larger home in Western Sydney. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Guests include Dominic West. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00
SATURDAY, June 28
6.00 Landline. (R)
6.30 Australian Story: Break It Down – The Raygun Phenomenon. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Grantchester. (Return, Mv) A suspicious death interrupts the Easter Fete.
9.05 Bay Of Fires. (Mlv, R) Tensions rise to boiling as Stella scrambles to adapt to her new way of life.
10.00 Little Disasters. (Mdls, R) Police and Social Services investigate jointly.
10.50 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef: Visitors. (R) 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.55 Dance Life. 9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, June 29
6.00
6.30 Compass. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG)
8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv) Stella forms an unlikely alliance.
8.55 Little Disasters. (Mals) The investigation continues.
9.45 MOVIE: The Tracker. (2002, Mav, R) Four people search for an accused murderer. David Gulpilil.
11.20 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Secret Life Of The Tasmanian Devils. (Premiere) 10.25 Abbott Elementary. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet.
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (Final, PG)
9.35 Irish Road Trip With Miriam Margolyes. (PGa, R)
10.35 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R)
11.35 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
3.10 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
4.00 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) There’s a huge threat to biosecurity.
7.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019, Ml, R) American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles try to build a race car for Ford so they can defeat Ferrari. Matt Damon, Christian Bale.
10.40 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017, MA15+v, R) A getaway driver gets involved in a doomed heist. Ansel Elgort.
1.00 Nurses. (Ma, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGals, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Barbie. (2023, PGlv) Barbie leaves Barbieland for the first time. Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling.
9.50 MOVIE: Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011, Mls, R) A middle-aged man’s wife asks for a divorce. Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling. 12.00 MOVIE: Love Road. (2023, Mls, R)
1.35 Great Australian Detour. (PGl, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A woman is suffering buyer’s remorse. 8.40 House Hunters Australia. (R) Clare and her best friend Brid are on a mission to find Clare’s family a home in Western Sydney. 9.40 Airport 24/7. (PGdl, R) A revolutionary airport trial 10 years in the making faces cancellation. Australian Border Force new recruit Nelson makes a find. 10.40 Elsbeth. (Mas, R) 11.45 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am Petite
Maman. Continued. (2021, PG, French) 7.05 What Do We See When We Look At The Sky? (2021, Georgian) 9.50 The Movie Show. 10.25 Quake. (2021, M, Icelandic) 12.20pm On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, M) 2.30 8 1/2. (1963, PG, Italian) 5.00 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 6.50 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 8.30 Only The Brave. (2017) 11.05 Late Programs.
Jakarta ePrix. H’lights. 2.50 Jeopardy! Australia. 3.50 MOVIE: Over The Hedge. (2006) 5.30 MOVIE: The LEGO Ninjago Movie. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Paris: Mystery Of The Lost Palace. (PGav, R)
8.30 Arc De Triomphe: The Passion Of A Nation. (PG, R)
9.30 The Zelensky Story. (Malv, R)
10.30 New Zealand From A Train. (PGa, R)
11.25 Jerusalem: Builders Of The Holy City. (PGav, R)
12.30 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)
3.15 Colosseum. (MA15+v, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
(31) VICELAND (31)
6am 8 1/2. Continued. (1963, PG, Italian) 8.05 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 9.55 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 11.35 The Ides Of March. (2011, M) 1.30pm Children Of Heaven. (1997, PG, Farsi) 3.05 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 5.15 Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 6.40 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 8.30 Body Of Lies. (2008, MA15+) 10.50 If Life Gives You Lemons. (2018, M, Italian) 12.30am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PGa) 8.45 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.45 24 Hours In Police Custody: Murder On Prescription Pt 2. (MA15+dlv) The original murder suspect is found dead.
10.45 Crime Investigation Australia: On Borrowed Time – The Michael McGurk Assassination. (Malv, R)
12.00 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PGl) 8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.30 The Wrong Man: 17 Years Behind Bars. (Mal) Profiles the wrongfully convicted Andrew Malkinson. 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 The First 48. (Mal, R) 12.10 Embarrassing Bodies. (MA15+dmns, R) 1.00 Destination WA. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Business Drive. (R)
Replay. 12.10pm Rise Of The Superbombs. 2.00 Jeopardy! Australia. 3.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 3.30 MOVIE: Mr Mom. (1983, PG) 5.25 MOVIE: Three Men And A Baby. (1987, PG)
6.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa) Emily and her son meet a chilled-out pug. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. Ten contestants compete
ABC FAMILY (22)
MONDAY, June 30
TUESDAY, July 1
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PGaw, R)
8.20 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand. (PG, R)
9.15 Stephen Fry: Willem And Frieda. (PGa, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Classified. (Mlv) 11.50 Kin. (MA15+lv, R) 1.45 Colosseum. (Mav, R)
2.35 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND
Way With Words. 5.15 Forged In Fire. 6.10 Alone UK. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The UnBelievable With Dan Aykroyd. 10.10 Warm Props. 11.20 Late Programs.
6am Lunana:
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) Kirby puts on the performance of her life.
7.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mal) The first Couples Cove arrives. 8.50 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena begins to question her abilities when she is assigned a rookie to mentor.
10.50 The Agenda Setters. An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
12.00 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Mals)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Parental Guidance. (Return, PGa) Eight sets of parents with very different parenting styles put their methods to the test.
9.00 100% Footy. (M) Phil Gould, Paul Gallen, Cam Smith and James Bracey look at the latest rugby league news, with exclusive insights from an expert panel of some of the sports’ most influential figures.
10.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 1. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 1 Late.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 10 News+. (Premiere) 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. 7.30 MasterChef
(MA15+adhlnsv)
3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Final)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black. (R)
11.00 The Point. (R)
12.00 Headhunters. (MA15+av, R)
1.45 Freezing Embrace. (Malv, R) 4.15 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.45 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Homicide. 2.20 Brady Vs Belichick: The Verdict. 3.10 News. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Help, I’ve Gone Viral! 6.15 Alone UK. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Alone. (Return) 10.25 Dark Side Of The Cage. 12.15am Race For The Planet. 1.35 New Wave: Dare To Be Different.
(32)
A Yak In The Classroom. (2019, PG, Dzongkha) 8.10 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 10.00 Only The Brave. (2017) 12.35pm All The King’s Men. (2006, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 Children Of Heaven. (1997, PG, Farsi) 5.05 The Movie Show. 5.40 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 7.30 The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, M) 9.20 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 11.50 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.40 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 9.30 The Movie Show. 10.05 If Life Gives You Lemons. (2018, M, Italian) 11.45 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 2.15pm Malcolm. (1986, PG) 3.50 Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom. (2019, PG, Dzongkha) 5.55 The Snow Foxes. (2023) 7.30 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 9.15 But I’m A Cheerleader. (1999, M) 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
7.30 Stranded On Honeymoon Island. (Mals) The couples look at an intimacy crate. 9.00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (Return, MA15+) Gordon Ramsay helps struggling New Orleans restaurants get reinvigorated before Super Bowl LIX.
10.00 First Dates UK. (PG) Singles experience the thrills of dating.
11.00 The Agenda Setters.
12.00 Fairly Legal. (Mav, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.40 Tipping Point: Wimbledon Special. A trio of Australian tennis royalty, including John Millman, Sam Stosur and Dylan Alcott, trade their racquets for buzzers in a special tennis legends edition in the name of charity.
9.10 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 2. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 2 Late. 5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
WEDNESDAY, July 2
6.00
The King & The Prince’s Secret Millions.
9.20 The Veil. (MA15+v) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 My Brilliant Friend. (Mals) 12.20 L’Opera. (Mls, R)
4.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs.
12.30 (Re)Solved. 1.25 Deep Fake Neighbour Wars. 2.20 Framed. 2.50 Lion Dancers: The Crane And The Lion. 3.15 News. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.20 Alone UK. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Coriolanus. (2011) 10.45 MOVIE: The Promise. (2016, M) 1.05am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Hum Do
Hamare Do. Continued. (2021, PG, Hindi) 7.50 Goal! (2005, PG) 10.00 The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, M) 11.45 But I’m A Cheerleader. (1999, M) 1.20pm Mad Max. (1979, M) 3.00 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 5.55 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 7.30 Risky Business. (1983, M) 9.20 Interview With The Vampire. (1994, MA15+) 11.35 L.A. Story. (1991, M) 1.20am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, July 3
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Treasures With Bettany Hughes: Turkey.
8.25 7/7: The London Bombings: Bombers Strike Again. (Mal)
10.45 SBS World News Late.
11.15 The Silence. (MA15+av)
1.15 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av, R)
3.00 The Best Of The HAVASI Symphonic. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 White Coat Rebels. 2.00 Stuck. 2.15 Insight. 3.15 News. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.20 History’s Greatest Of All-Time With Peyton Manning. 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. (Return) 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.40 The Snow Foxes. (2023) 8.20 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.00 Risky Business. (1983, M) 11.50 L.A. Story. (1991, M) Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi) 3.55 Oink. (2022, Dutch) 7.30 Kill Bill: Vol. 1. (2003, Romper Stomper. (1992, MA15+)
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. (Premiere, MA15+a)
11.20 Stags. (MA15+adlv)
12.20 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country.
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 To Be Advised.
8.30 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 3. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 3 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at all the news from Australia and around the world, as well as the latest sport and weather.
5.30 Today. The latest in news, current affairs, sport, politics, entertainment, fashion, health and lifestyle.
6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns. 8.40 Elsbeth. (Mv) Elsbeth takes a tour of famous New
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)
8.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (Return, PG) Contestants compete for a top prize of £1 million. Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson. 9.30 Air Crash Investigations: Pacific Ditching. (Return, PG) Looks at a cargo jet crash.
10.30 Million Pound Pawn. (Return, PG)
11.30 Evil By Design. (Malv, R)
12.30 Life. (Madv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(62)
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 1. Cronulla Sharks v Parramatta Eels. From Sharks Stadium, Sydney. 10.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 4. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 4 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
(34)
NITV (34)
NITV
Challenge Shield
Panthers Port Macquarie
The Westport Club
Frankies Cafe
Four Espresso
El Motel Inn
Glasshouse Port Macquarie
Redcross Blood Donation Centre
Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie
Florence Jones
Port AdVenture Cruises
CWA, Port Macquarie
Lilys Cafe
Majestic Cinema
Port Macquarie Hotel Bottle Shop
Port Macquarie Surfing Museum
The Witchy Nook
Colonial Meats
Rock Salt Marina
Port Macquarie
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
By Aiden BURGESS
AFL North Coast’s best senior players are ready to represent their region this weekend.
North Coast Force men’s and women’s teams head to Gunnedah for a big day of representative games.
The Force men’s team play their first representative game since 2018, when they take on the North West Blue Heelers.
The Force will look to win back the Challenge Shield that the two leagues play for, after the North West won the past two meetings in 2017 and 2018.
The North Coast vs North West representative game has been played 13 times in the past between 1998 and 2018.
North Coast Force coach
Ben Watson was looking forward to regaining the Challenge Shield.
“The squad boasts a good mixture of experience and youth,” he said.
“We want to bring that Challenge Shield back to the North Coast for the first time since 2016,” he said.
The North Coast Force women will also be playing in Gunnedah this weekend, as they play against AFL North West and AFL Central West sides in a tri-series, with the winner of the most matches to receive the Regional Australia Bank Cup.
North Coast Force women last played a representative game against AFL North West in Newcastle last year.
The AFL North West Blue Heelers had a 4.2 (26) to 1.1 (7) win against the Force.
News Of The Area
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
Wauchope Newsagency
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
Your Discount Chemist
Coles Lighthouse Beach
Emerald Downs Golf Course
Lighthouse Beach Post Office
q Action from last year’s women’s representative game between the North Coast Force and AFL North West Blue Heelers.