By Chris KARAS
Hunter to Perth flights a ‘game-changer’
By Cosette DE LORENZO
QANTAS has announced it will be the first airline to offer direct flights from Newcastle to Perth.
The new route will launch on 8 September and flights will operate on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays.
“These flights will boost connectivity for Newcastle residents and mean they no longer have to drive to and from Sydney when they want to travel to Perth,” QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan said.
“We know many customers, particularly
those working in the mining and resources sector, are having to do that today.”
The announcement is part of the NSW Government’s broader strategy to grow the state’s aviation capacity and is backed by the Aviation Attraction Fund (AAF).
It comes at a transformational time for Newcastle Airport, which is preparing to open its new terminal later this year.
Along with the new Perth route, the upgraded terminal will allow for ongoing international flights into Newcastle for the first time.
“This is a game-changer for our region,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.
“Connecting Port Stephens and the Hunter directly to Perth opens up incredible opportunities for local tourism, business and jobs.
“With connecting flights from London, Paris and Rome now within reach, this is a powerful example of what we can achieve when we back our regions by investing in great local infrastructure.”
The route will be serviced by the QantasLink A319, which has the
capacity to seat 150 passengers.
It is offered alongside a reinstated Perth-Hobart service, as the airline aims to improve travel into Perth.
Kate Holsgrove, Chief Commercial and Aviation Officer at Perth Airport said, “It’s great news for Australia’s tourism industry as the services will promote increased visitation to Western Australia from NSW and Tasmania and will also provide a direct link for West Australians wanting to discover Tasmania and northern NSW.”
Flights are already on sale with prices starting at $299 for Newcastle-Perth one way.
Onboard meals and checked bags will also be included.
CORRECTION
NEWS Of The Area wishes to offer correction to information printed in our 29 May edition.
The Nelson Bay CWA’s annual Winter Fete will be held from 8:30am to 1pm
on Saturday, 7 June at the CWA Hall, on the corner of Achilles and Gowrie Streets in Nelson Bay. The 15 June date printed in last week’s edition was incorrect.
Yacaaba Centre’s Winter Wonderland gala
By Simon EKINS
FOR over 35 years, the Yacaaba Centre on Donald Street in Nelson Bay, has provided free counselling, practical assistance and emergency relief for the homeless and victims of family violence.
As a volunteer-run charity organisation, funding is limited - even as the need for support grows.
The centre regularly holds local fundraising events, with one planned for 28 June at Soldiers Point Bowling Club.
Kerrie Cottrill from the
centre said the “Winter Wonderland Gala” will be an evening of celebration to raise funds for essential frontline services.
“The event will include champagne on arrival, a four hour drinks package, a delicious three course meal, auctions, raffles, prizes, live entertainment and even a band.”
To book a ticket for the centre’s Winter Wonderland Gala and to help the charity make a positive and lasting impact on the community, visit yacaabacentre.com.au or call 02 4984 2176.
contact us on 4988 0255.
ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL
75 Kingsley Dr 16-20211120-2 S4.55(1A) Modification shed – add rain garden BOBS FARM
1 Cromarty Ln 16-2025-276-1
2 The Quarterdeck 16-2025-252-1 Single storey dwelling DUNS CREEK 673 Duns Creek Rd 16-2025-246-1 Alterations/additions to dwelling, swimming pool
9 Wallaby Cl 16-2025-267-1 Shed (replace existing) FERN BAY
20 Foxtail St 16-2025-269-1 Swimming pool MEDOWIE
49 Kula Rd 16-2025-247-1
RAYMOND TERRACE 177 Adelaide St 16-2025-222-1 Strata subdivision SALAMANDER BAY
Former rehab director faces court after allegedly falsifying client drug-use reports
FROM Page 1
the controversial Swan Bay facility, following a year-long investigation.
Strike Force Toopuntul was established in May 2024 by State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad North to investigate the rehabilitation centre.
On Friday 11 October 2024, strike force detectives executed a search warrant at the facility, where they seized electronics and documents.
It was uncovered that an employee of the facility was allegedly issuing fraudulent reports about patients’ drug use, who were required to be at the facility drug-free as part of their bail undertaking.
Following extensive inquiries, about 8.40am on Wednesday 28 May, strike force detectives executed a search warrant and arrested Mr Pene.
He was taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where he was charged with five counts of “do act etc intending
to pervert the course of justice” relating to five patients.
He was refused bail to appear in Raymond Terrace
Off-duty cop charged in Shoal Bay
AN off-duty police officer has been charged after allegedly refusing to leave a licenced premise.
About 12.55am on Saturday 28 December 2024, police were called
to a licenced premises in Shoal Bay, following reports a group were refusing to leave. Officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District arrived
and were told three people were physically removed by security after they allegedly refused to leave the property when directed.
Police commenced
an investigation into the incident and, following extensive inquiries, a 41-year-old male senior constable attached to NSW Police’s Northern Region, a 41-year-old woman,
and an 18-year-old man were charged on Friday 30 May 2025 with “excluded person fail to leave premises when required”.
The woman was also charged with common assault.
All three were issued court attendance notices to appear before Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday 7 July 2025.
Junior Gropers going from strength to strength
FROM Page 1
Brown, Jada Stanley, Mayli Campbell and Zoe Smith (Under 15s for Wildfires Under 16s) and Chiara Gamgee and Luca Stewart (Under 17s for Wildfires Under 18s) were named in the Wildfires Girls squads.
Logan Jarvis (Under 13s), Baelin Scully and Kade Lawson (Under 14s), Flynn Squires, Josh Perry and Zeke Hay as
well as talented playmakers Bastiaan Osbourne-Zorbas and Darcy Lawson, have forced their way into the Boys representative line-ups.
Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Club secretary Matt Findlay told News Of The Area that the Gropers will supply five referees to this year’s Hunter junior competitions.
“We have a number of junior referees that will take to the whistle this season and
we encourage anyone that is keen to participate to join the ranks,” he said.
The Gropers Under 14s Boys outfit have produced impressive victories in the early rounds and are one of the clubs to beat for this year’s title.
A number of team members were praised recently for their brave efforts and surf skills in a courageous rescue at
Zenith Beach.
The Nelson Bay club was quick to arrange team counselling and in support of parents to ensure the trauma of the event was managed well for the long term benefit of all boys involved.
Last Friday, the Gropers hosted their annual Club Day event for Under 15 Girls and were joined by teams from Singleton and Wanderers.
Four Singleton Under 15
players – Matthew Green, Caden Foster, Will Enright and Hunter Wildfires rep Flynn Squires - travel two hours each Thursday for training at the club’s Nelson Bay base.
“This is owed to the club’s strength in attracting players from outside the region and also these fine young men [and their parents] committing to Nelson Bay.”
A long time tradition has been rekindled with the
club’s end-of-season Under 18s tour of Vanuatu planned at the conclusion of this year’s Sevens series.
The touring Gropers team will play several goodwill fixtures and also assist where requested to aid recovery from recent disasters.
“This will come with a variety of clothing, schooling and sporting donations and simply strengthening our ties with our good Vanuatu friends,” Findlay added.
Local Court, where he pleaded not guilty.
The Connect Global facility closed in February.
q Strike force detectives executed a search warrant at the Connect Global facility last week.
Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au
Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au
Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au
Jacie WHITFIELD 0411 556 079 jacie@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
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New vision for theatre in The Bay
By Lindsay HALL
PETER Farrell has “trod the boards” all over the world as a theatrical performer, and has invested many years in training and developing young people’s talent.
Now he’s bringing his experience to bear in Port Stephens.
“This is such a beautiful place to live, but it doesn’t provide much opportunity for theatre, or performing arts,” he said during a conversation at the Soldiers Point Community Hall.
“This is such a perfect little building that will be the perfect home for that kind of thing.”
Peter has provisionally established the Port Stephens Theatre Company, offering “Introduction to the Arts” workshops for young people with a burgeoning interest in musical theatre.
He also hosts a weekly line-dancing “roundup” on Saturday evenings, though he admits with a gleeful grin that is something he started “simply because I enjoy it”.
Growing up in Sydney, Peter has been a theatrical performer in professional productions of shows like Chicago and A Chorus Line.
But some of his proudest achievements have been
in establishing academies where he can pass on his knowledge and skills to young people, and offer some guidance in how they can pursue their own passions.
“My sister and I taught young people in Sydney for about 12 years,” he said.
“Some of those who came through our program went on to professional careers of their own.
“One of them took over from us when we decided to move on.
“There is so much reward in fostering that love for the arts, and watching young people thrive when they find a new purpose.”
Equal parts performer, teacher, mentor and philosopher, Peter is starting small in Port Stephens with his initial workshops and holiday programs, but has a mind to develop a thriving theatre company to create new opportunities for performers of all ages.
In addition to producing shows at the Soldiers Point Community Hall, he hopes to develop a “Young Talent Team” - a group of young people enthusiastic about singing and dancing who can travel and participate in events across the state to help promote the Port
q Peter Farrell is bringing years of theatrical experience to a new generation of performers in Port Stephens.
Stephens area.
“I think that there’s a great opportunity to provide this sort of experience for tourists and holidaymakers every bit as much as locals.
“Out in the world there is a lot of chaos; art is the only balance to that.”
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Community responds to Shoal Bay Road proposal
By Simon EKINS
AFTER two disastrous events hit Shoal Bay in 2024, Port Stephens Council (PSC) was again urged by concerned locals to provide an alternate access road to Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay.
Following a series of meetings with local groups, the Council recently released its Delivery Program (2025-2029) and Operational Plan (2025-2026).
In response, the Tomaree Headland Heritage Group (THHG) prepared a formal letter on behalf of other local organisations, including the Fingal Bay Community Association, Business Port Stephens, and the Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association.
The response was focused on safety and included further recommendations.
The main one was “to give priority to urgently commence the planning for an additional access road into Shoal Bay to potentially be located behind the Harbourside Haven in Shoal Bay connecting Shoal Bay Road and Government Road”.
The recommendation reflects safety concerns that there is only one way in and out of Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay, home to 3500 residents and substantially more in holiday periods.
An extreme weather event occurred on 1 August 2024, placing Shoal Bay Road at high risk.
It not only created significant erosion on Shoal Bay Beach but took subsidence to within three metres of Shoal Bay Road.
According to the Port Stephens Coastal Management Plan, this should trigger the introduction of preventive measures, including sand bagging.
A significant fire in the Tomaree National Park adjacent to Wreck Beach in Shoal Bay then occurred on 2 September, where multiple emergency services required access via Shoal Bay Road.
President of the THHG Peter Clough
said, “There are also many other reasons for introducing an additional access and egress road into Shoal Bay.
“Some examples include the appeal of the Tomaree Headland, which attracts well in excess of 300,000 people each year; the recent introduction of the Tomaree Coastal walk; the increased appeal of the Shoal Bay CBD foreshore, which has had a recent upgrade; the impending repurposing of the Tomaree Lodge; and the strong recent growth in ‘Infill’ development, which is occurring [alongside] the uplift in allowable building heights closer to the foreshore.”
PSC has been approached for comment.
q A serious weather event left Shoal Bay Road three metres from the water in August 2024.
q Repairs to Shoal Bay Beach, August 2024.
Sand sculpture explored at Fingal
By Jacie WHITFIELD
WORLD-RENOWNED sand
sculptor Dennis Massoud gave a unique workshop on Fingal Bay Beach on Saturday, 31 May.
Known as “Sandman”, Massoud is a former sand sculpting world champion and has displayed his work across the globe.
More than just art, he says sand sculpting offers “patience and emotional balance”.
On Saturday Massoud brought his one-of-a-kind talent to the sand of Fingal Bay, teaching attendees to pare and mould sand into dolphins, turrets and whale's tails with nothing more than a few $2-dollar shop items, a chopstick he wielded like a magician, his ocean-dipped hands and some lengths of PVC pipe.
Onlookers were captivated by Massoud’s explanation of how the sand changes due to compression and water evaporation, making it a medium that creates incredible beauty out of broken-down grainy rock and mineral particles.
Kids who eagerly watched
him craft an arch were keen to put their buckets and spades to work, using their originality and imagination to craft fantasy worlds and creative sculptures out of nothing more than sand and water.
Massoud also fell in love with sand sculpting as a child, taking up the hobby when he was seven. It is now his full time
profession.
Massoud has previously been commissioned to sand sculpt in the only eightstar hotel in the world, the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.
He is currently working on a project which will be 38 metres high, 100 metres at the base and will involve 80,000 tonnes of sand.
now for
q Dennis Massoud at work on Fingal Bay beach.
q Some of the art works created on the day
q Dennis Massoud shared his immense knowledge of sand sculpting.
Coordinated clean-up support
PORT Stephens Council has launched a coordinated waste management response to support residents impacted by the recent natural disaster.
Council teams have been working closely with emergency services and impacted communities to assess damage, and help residents safely manage waste from flood-affected properties.
Mayor Leah Anderson said the recovery effort is focused on making it as easy as possible for residents to clean up and get back on their feet.
“This has been an incredibly tough time for many of our communities, particularly those in our rural Hinterland.
“We know the clean-up after a disaster like this is overwhelming, and Council is here to help,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Flood-impacted residents can access free flood waste drop-offs at Council’s Salamander Bay Waste Transfer Station and the Newline Waste Facility until further notice.
“We’re also offering kerbside collection services for eligible flood-affected properties to support the clean-up process.”
Council is prioritising access to affected areas and continuing to clear debris and restore public spaces.
Dedicated waste crews have been deployed across the region to manage high
volumes of flood-related waste, with safety and environmental care front of mind.
Mayor Anderson said Council’s response is evolving as more information becomes available.
“We’ll continue to monitor the situation and adjust our response as needed.
“Our community has shown great resilience, and we’re committed to helping everyone recover as quickly and safely as possible,” she said.
For more information on drop-off locations, kerbside collection eligibility, and flood recovery resources, visit pscouncil.info/kerbsidepick-up-flood-affected-waste
Youth crime committee tables first
THE first report of an inquiry into community safety has been tabled, highlighting an urgent need for early intervention to deal with the complex social drivers of youth crime in regional and rural NSW.
Since adopting the inquiry on 20 March 2024, the Committee of Law and Safety received almost 200 submissions and conducted hearings in Bourke, Broken
Hill, Kempsey and Sydney, with additional meetings held in Wagga Wagga and the Mid North Coast.
Committee Chair and MP for Mount Druitt, Mr Edmond Atalla, said the report is informed by powerful testimonies from individuals and communities directly impacted by crime.
“We’ve heard firsthand from people who've experienced the trauma of
crime in their communities.
“The message is loud and clear: people feel unsafe, and they want lasting solutions,” Mr Atalla said.
"Our report emphasises that youth crime is a complex issue that can't be addressed through policing alone.
“Evidence overwhelmingly supports early intervention and communitybased support programs as the most effective tools to
report
prevent youth offending.
“Our recommendations highlight the need for a long term approach to community safety."
Mr Atalla said tough-oncrime responses might seem appealing, but don’t deliver long-term change.
“We need to invest in what works and that means supporting vulnerable young people early, before they come into contact with the
justice system,” Mr Atalla said.
The report also identifies significant service gaps, referral inefficiencies, and funding constraints that limit the effectiveness of current early intervention efforts.
The Committee’s recommendations aim to strengthen these systems and expand effective programs.
“We are deeply thankful to the people who shared
their experiences and insights with us.
“Your voices have shaped this report, and we have tried to reflect your testimony as authentically as possible.”
The Committee's inquiry is ongoing, and a final report will be furnished at a later date.
The report can be found on http://www.parliament. nsw.gov.au/committees/ inquiries/Pages/inquirydetails.aspx?pk=3042.
Latest rounds of PBL winners
A MASSIVE group of local students have been recognised for having a positive impact on the people and communities around them.
Here are the latest recipients of Raymond Terrace Community Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) awards.
Irrawang PS: Sage has been nominated for respectfully representing Irrawang Public School at the Raymond Terrace ANZAC Service. She delivered a moving tribute about the ANZACs to the Raymond Terrace community. Sage also assisted on election day to raise funds for the P&C.
Irrawang PS: Charlotte has been nominated for her willingness to assist others at school and in the
community. Charlotte helps OOSH staff support students, ensuring their safety on the bus. She is a role model to younger students demonstrating school and community values of safety, responsibility and respect.
Raymond Terrace PS: Albi displayed a high level of confidence to write his own personalised acknowledgement of country and perform it at the zone cross country carnival. He spoke in front of hundreds of students, parents and teachers, displaying how proud he is of his culture.
Raymond Terrace PS: Georgia demonstrated strong leadership and core PBL values by including all participants in a large, community minded impromptu game at Starstruck Choir rehearsals. Encouragement, patience and kindness were displayed by Georgia to ensure students from a range of schools participated and enjoyed the experience.
Grahamstown PS: Kye has been nominated for
being a remarkable student who embodies the values of enthusiasm, maturity, and teamwork. His willingness to represent the school and his ability to cooperate with others are commendable traits that contribute positively to the school community.
Grahamstown PS: Poppy is nominated for her leadership, kind and caring nature. She consistently supports her peers to ensure everyone feels happy and valued. Poppy has been invaluable in helping kindergarten students transition to school, demonstrating her commitment to their wellbeing. Additionally, Poppy shows great dedication to promoting her school, actively participating in events and initiatives that enhance the school community.
Irrawang HS: Declan has been nominated for his outstanding qualities as a well-rounded student. He has proudly represented Irrawang High School at
numerous sporting events, actively participates in the Creative and Performing Arts program, and shows a strong sense of community through his involvement in the IHS Drum Corps, performing at both local ANZAC Day services.
Irrawang HS: Justin, who serves as school Vice-Captain, consistently demonstrates PBL values of respect, responsibility and personal best, by always being actively involved in the Wednesday assemblies, and other leadership roles in school and in the community. Justin is also an excellent and valued role model to the Clontarf young men.
Hunter River HS: Olivia has been nominated for her dedication to supporting younger students in Stage 4 Aboriginal Studies. She consistently promotes the PBL values of acting responsibly, respect, and success, helping foster a positive learning environment. Her contributions have made a significant impact,
encouraging growth and engagement among her peers.
Hunter River HS: Frank has been nominated for proudly demonstrating PBL values of acting responsibly and respect during recent visits to a local primary school. He worked well with others, showed kindness and cooperation, and was friendly with both students and staff. Frank’s positive attitude made a great impression.
Salt Ash PS: Connor has been nominated for demonstrating outstanding positive behaviour and upholding school values while at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service. This student showed respect by following instructions and maintaining a quiet, attentive presence throughout the ceremony.
Salt Ash PS: Maggie is being recognised for outstanding demonstration of school PBL values during the Film By The Water excursion at Irrawang High School. She showed respect throughout the activities and
was a great representative for Salt Ash.
Medowie PS: Lexi has been nominated in recognition of her outstanding support and encouragement of her peers in the Maths Olympiad program. Lexi regularly demonstrates a strong sense of empathy and teamwork which was evident when new students joined the Olympiad group. She took it upon herself to welcome them warmly and ease their transition into what can often be an intimidating environment.
Medowie PS: Charlie has been nominated for his empathy on a recent school excursion. He noticed another student was anxious and went over and offered his support by holding her hand. Charlie also then invited her to sit next to him on the bus.
Seaham PS: Mia was spotted being a responsible and respectful student. At the end of the Seaham athletics carnival Mia spent time cleaning up the area, putting rubbish in the bin and ensuring the area was tidy.
Seaham PS: Kalleigh has been nominated for going above and beyond at the Seaham athletics carnival. She spent her time at the end of the day ensuring the area was neat and tidy. Kalleigh picked up rubbish and assisted teachers in making sure the environment was clean.
Karuah PS: Grace is nominated for not only consistently conducting herself in a professional and polite manner when in and around the community but also encouraging others to use their manners.
Karuah PS: KandraLee has been nominated for showing great courage and composure, when at short notice, she stepped up and represented Karuah Public School with pride by presenting at the local ANZAC service.
q Students from across the region have been recognised for their positive impacts.
Direct Newcastle to Bali flights launched
Have Your Say
JETSTAR will launch a direct route between Newcastle and Denpasar (Bali) from 21 October.
Denpasar is a major international aviation hub offering connections to over 40 countries.
The service is set to be run three times a week, and will be the first international route offered from Newcastle’s new international terminal.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the route will open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a “major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity”.
“The first ongoing international flight for Newcastle Airport is a significant moment for the region’s visitor economy –and we’re only just getting started,” he said.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington believes the move will facilitate “visitors from around the world” experiencing the Hunter region.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton told News Of The Area, “This route reflects what’s possible when industry and government work together to back regional growth.
“We thank the NSW Government for their partnership in making this international connection a reality for the Hunter region and the Federal Government for supporting the build of our international terminal.
“Bali is one of Australia’s most loved destinations and is the first of many exciting destinations we will deliver.”
Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the new international route is an “exciting milestone as Jetstar continues to significantly expand its network”.
“We're thrilled to be the airline to launch Newcastle’s first international flights in more than five years with our new direct service from Newcastle to Bali,” she said.
The route is backed by the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund.
Managed by Destination NSW on behalf of the NSW Government, the Fund offered financial incentives and marketing support to assist NSW airports to secure routes and increase aviation capacity to the state.
Applications for the fund were open between February 2022 and June 2023.
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Beware of disaster scams
By Thomas O’KEEFE
PREDATORY scammer
activity is predicted to skyrocket in the wake of the recent rains and flood disasters.
In the aftermath of severe flooding, the State Government is urging people to remain vigilant when donating to recovery efforts.
As communities recover and rebuild, authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the situation through fake fundraising appeals.
“The generosity shown by people across NSW in response to the floods has already been extraordinary, but sadly, we know that scammers are quick to take advantage of these moments,” said Acting Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Paul Scully.
“Before you donate, take a moment to verify the fundraiser at verify. licence.nsw.gov.au, or donate through givit.org.au.
“A few simple checks can make all the difference in ensuring your support goes to those who truly need it,
and we want to make sure that every dollar donated goes to helping people rebuild their lives and not into the hands of fraudsters.”
NSW Fair Trading is reminding the public to take simple precautions to ensure their donations are going to legitimate causes.
This includes checking the charity is registered and has a valid fundraising authority, and being cautious of unsolicited donation requests via phone, email, or social media.
Consumers are encouraged to:
• Check the charity’s registration on the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) website: https://www. acnc.gov.au/charity/ charities
• Look up the organisation on the NSW Fair Trading Charitable Fundraising Register: https://verify. licence.nsw.gov.au/ home/Charities
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or emails.
• Report suspected
scams to Scamwatch or contact NSW Fair Trading: https://www. scamwatch.gov.au.
While a variety of scam types exist, and more are dreamed up every day, many share a similar set of features that can and should be looked for every time we open an unsolicited message. Many scams include:
• A strong sense of urgency (regarding either a serious
problem or a surprise win);
• Use of familiar names or brands;
• Dubious grammar and language manipulation;
• An easy way out of the problem posed.
Some scammers will impersonate a flood victim or charity desperately reaching out for help, soliciting donations in a way that appeals directly to the well-meaning nature of many
q Authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the recent natural disaster through fake fundraising appeals. Photo: NSW SES.
people who just want to help those in need.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's Little Book of Scams, scammers “use sad stories and cries for help”.
“Scammers will try and use your good nature against you, they will share stories of heartbreak and tragedy with you and explain why they need your help and your money,” the advice states.
“Scammers don’t want you to take your time and think things through, they want to pressure you into acting quickly – this can include making threats that something bad will happen if you don’t act fast.
“Scammers use links or attachments within emails and phone messages to send you to scam websites or install viruses designed to steal your information and money.”
q Minister Steve Kamper at Newcastle Airport for the announcement.
Dealing with DV after funding 'neglected' for years
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
TO THE action enthusiasts who were devastated by the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4, there is the promise of exquisitely choreographed violence in the new entry to that film series, Ballerina.
Marketed with the tag “From the world of John Wick”, this spin-off concentrates on the exploits of Eva (Ana de Armas), a graduate of the Ruska Roma Ballet Assassins, whose director is played by Angelica
Houston.
Seeking revenge for the death of her father, Eva must confront The Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne) and a whole town against her.
Lance Reddick, Ian McShane and Keanu Reeves all make cameo appearances to remind everyone of the film’s origins.
While the previous films were all directed by legendary stunt coordinator turned filmmaker Chad Stahelski, this latest entry comes from Len Wiseman, best known for the middling Underworld film series.
Hopefully the film's producers will maintain the strong sense of
By Jack GRAMENZ, AAP
MORE than half a billion dollars will go towards dealing with domestic violence in a bid to undo years of "neglect" in Australia's most populous state.
The funding will go towards supporting victimsurvivors and keeping alleged abusers behind bars to "build a safer NSW".
The government announced the funding pledges on Monday before the state budget is unveiled on June 24.
About half of the money is earmarked for a $227 million injection into the state's victims' support service over five years.
worldbuilding and balletic action set pieces…pun intended.
Yet another possessionthemed Hollywood film comes to cinemas in The Ritual Erroneously cited as being “based on the true story that inspired The Exorcist”, this film draws on several written accounts of the efforts over many years by Father Theophilus Riesinger to free a young woman named Emma Schmidt from demonic possession.
Al Pacino takes this role and plays it with an appropriately over-the-top level of zeal and a slightly unidentifiable accent, with Dan Stevens playing Father Joseph Steiger as a skeptical partner.
The service helps victim-survivors and family members access counselling and financial assistance.
Non-government support services will get more certainty around funding with five-year contracts promised.
Almost $50 million will be spent on making it easier for victim-survivors to give evidence, with remote courtrooms sparing them the risk of attending the same court complex as their abuser.
The funds will also provide counselling, legal aid and financial advice at a hub expected to open in late 2027.
"This hub will make a major difference, especially for women and children who have mustered the
The question of whether the afflicted girl is truly supernaturally afflicted or simply beset by mental illness is given lip-service, but quickly falls to the side as director David Midell revels in the spooky flickering lights, tipping furniture and sudden screaming of Emma (played by Abigail Cowen).
The Great Lillian Hall is a made-for-television film that has been upgraded to a limited theatrical release.
The film is loosely based on legendary Broadway actress Marian Seldes, and depicts the titular “first lady of the American theatre” coming to terms with her encroaching dementia, even as she commits to completing her most recent play.
Led by Jessica Lange, the
courage to give evidence against a domestic violence perpetrator," Premier Chris Minns said.
Recent changes to bail for alleged domestic violence offenders has also increased the number of inmates on remand, pushing the state's prison population to near record-highs.
More than $100 million will go towards corrective services to help cope with the increase.
Another change ensured all bail decisions would be made by magistrates, following the high-profile April 2024 murder of Molly Ticehurst in Forbes, allegedly by her former boyfriend Daniel Billings, who was
cast includes Pierce Brosnan and Kathy Bates in a role that won a Screen Actors Guild Award.
The performances are powerfully emotive, to the point that the film feels overwhelming at times, but they create some fertile ground to ask the question “what does art mean to the artist?”
Finally, indie crimethriller Barron’s Cove also comes to select screens.
When Caleb (Garret Hedlund) learns that his son Barron has been killed, he kidnaps the schoolboy he holds responsible (Christian Convery).
That boy's father turns out to be an incumbent State Senator (Hamish Linklater) who has dark secrets of his
granted bail by a registrar about two weeks earlier.
Ten virtual courtrooms are planned to support remote bail hearings, along with an additional five courtrooms at major courthouses in Sydney's city centre, costing almost $35 million.
The funds will lay the foundation for longer-term reforms, Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Jodie Harrison said.
"This is work that previous governments have neglected for many years."
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
Lifeline 13 11 14 Men's Referral Service 1300 766 491
own, and mobilises local police to resolve the situation quickly - and quietly.
Bleak might not be an adequate word to describe this film's worldview, and ultimate ending.
The performances are, across the board, pitch perfect for this kind of throwback genre piece, not leaning too hard into deep character drama but also not interested in explosive setpieces.
This is a gritty, grimy film about gritty, grimy people who are incapable of operating in the world without resorting to violence. It will likely struggle to find an audience, but will stick with those people brave enough to give it a go.
Recovery coordinator appointed
FORMER NSW Police
Deputy Commissioner Dave Owens has been appointed as the Recovery Coordinator for the Hunter and MidNorth Coast in the wake of devastating floods.
Mr Owens commenced the role last week and will be based out of Taree.
“Dave Owens has a lot of experience helping communities after natural disasters, so I am grateful he has agreed to lead our recovery effort,” said Premier Chris Minns.
“He is on-the-ground in Taree, ready to go, to help the community recover from these terrible floods.
“There are literally thousands of NSW
Government staff and volunteers working on this recovery.
“The Recovery Coordinator will ensure our agencies continue working closely together to help these regions over months ahead.”
Mr Owens has previously acted as the NSW State Recovery Coordinator for a number of severe weather events.
In June 2016, he was appointed as the NSW State Recovery Coordinator for the East Coast Low and in September 2016 as the Regional Recovery Coordinator for the Central Western floods.
He was also appointed
as the State Emergency Operations Controller (SEOCON) in 2007 and performed this position for four years.
As SEOCON, he was responsible for overall emergency management responses within New South Wales.
He was also the 2020 Co-Lead for the NSW Independent Bushfire Inquiry.
Mr Owens will also be supported by other local Recovery Coordinators for the Mid North Coast, and for the Hunter and Central Coast.
They will report to Mr Owens, ensuring the two regions are equally
represented in recovery considerations.
As Mr Owens steps into the role, Recovery Access Points being held across affected regions.
These centres are there for people who need assistance, including assistance with financial aid, identification documents, accommodation, legal support, insurance, and more.
Critical information about recovery support for impacted communities – including locations of the recovery centres – is available at www.nsw.gov. au/floodrecoveryupdates
q NSW Premier Chris Minns.
Photo: Nikki Short/AAP Image.
King tide flooding
By Thomas O’KEEFE
KING tides flooded the coastlines and estuaries around Port Stephens from Thursday 29 May, coinciding with the riverine flooding that rocked the hinterland and Mid North Coast.
Masses of seaweed and sand were lifted by the tides over the roads at Pindimar North and South, leaving salty flooding, seaweed and debris in its wake.
This added to the rainwater flooding of properties in South Pindimar.
Several Pindimar locals,
out to survey the damage on Friday morning, were deeply concerned about the functionality of drains that are supposed to take tidal flooding back out to the Bay.
On top of this, seaside conditions were also impacted by storm-force winds driven by a low front in the Tasman Sea and a cold front causing potential wave peaks of 10 metres.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a hazardous surf warning for 2500kms of the NSW coast, from Byron Bay to the Eden Coast.
The real hidden danger, apart from water-covered roadways, was the risk of
into the
as happened recently at similarly
“unserviced villages” like Nerong.
The condition of local roads also remains a hazard.
“During heavy rainfall or flooding, roads can quickly become hazardous, and roads or crossings that may have looked safe a short time ago can quickly become dangerous,” said a representative of Transport for NSW (TfNSW).
“Roads and the ground beneath them can wash away and this may not be visible from the surface, as floodwater can be deeper than it looks and contain pollutants and other debris.
“It can trap your car and put you and your passengers at risk.”
The riverfront at Tea
q
Teeing off for youth mental health
DESPITE cold, wet and windy conditions at Horizons Golf Resort, spirits were high as local businesses, golfers and supporters came together for the Jupiter Charity Golf Day on Friday 16 May.
Elders Real Estate Port Stephens sponsored the event, which was dedicated to raising funds for local youth mental health organisation, Jupiter.
Among the competitors was Elders Port Stephens Director Adam Wells, who teed off alongside his team of fellow Horizons Golf Resort members.
With a fantastic finish to a memorable day, Adam and his team were crowned tournament winners.
"This event was about more than golf," said Adam Wells.
"It was about supporting young people in our community and helping Jupiter continue their amazing work. We were proud to be involved."
Jupiter provides vital programs and services to support youth across Port Stephens, and the funds raised on the day will go directly toward expanding these efforts.
Gardens suffered similarly, with the king tide washing over the seawall and making its way a block inland to Myall Street.
It then joined rainflooded low points, where already poor drainage has been exacerbated by recent development block fill-ins.
The king tides and recent rain are also highlighting and accelerating the Tea Gardens riverfront’s biggest problem; large sinkholes that are forming along the seawall pedestrian area.
Historical analysis indicates that the entire Tea Gardens seawall, from Coupland Avenue to ANZAC Park, was built without mortar around 100 years ago.
The inundation of parts of Curlew Ave, Pindimar left behind seaweed and debris.
q The Elders Real Estate Port Stephens team.
q The corner of Cunningham St and Curlew Ave, Pindimar shows sand washed over the low beach, cutting access.
septic systems leaking
floodwaters,
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We can’t afford to stay silent anymore
DEAR News Of The Area,
WE as a country can no longer stay silent - regardless of religion or nationality - and condone the murders in Gaza.
As Australians from numerous countries we must call on our government to support the international boycotts against Israel and call on the Israel communities in Australia to voice their opposition to the Israeli government’s murderous attacks on women and children in Gaza.
Here in Australia we hear when there is an attack on a building or a motor vehicle in a Jewish area but in Gaza hundreds of people are murdered daily.
Regards,
Gerry Mohan, Shoal Bay
DEAR News Of The Area,
I WRITE this during National Reconciliation Week.
This is the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum which finally recognised the First Peoples who have lived here for millennia and meant that they were included in the National Census as people and permitted to vote.
It is also the reminder of Mabo.
Twenty-five years ago some of us joined the thousands of people who walked across Sydney Harbour Bridge in solidarity with our original inhabitants of this great land, the first Sorry Day.
There’s been quite a conversation (again) recently about Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country.
It appears that some people don’t recognise the difference or the significance of either.
Dorin’s Draws By
Paul DORIN
Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country
As someone whose forebears emigrated from the U.K. only within the last 200 years, I feel a deep bond to this country of my birth.
At the same time I consider myself very fortunate indeed to be privileged to have been born in, and be a citizen of, a country with the oldest continuous culture in the world, stretching back some 65,000 years.
Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country for me are a sign of respect and a reminder.
When we travel overseas we know that we’re likely to go across borders, through different countries, each with their own language, subtle and not so subtle differences in culture and physical appearance.
Why should we not consider that the same exists here in Australia with our First Peoples?
We rather like seeing the signs welcoming us to a different country.
Bodybuilding gold for Fingal Bay fitness guru
By Chris KARAS
A PASSION for fitness has opened pathways in the natural bodybuilding world for Fingal Bay university student Darcy Glew.
Having won a string of gold medals in his first year on the competition circuit, the future looks bright for the determined 19-yearold athlete.
At the recent Australian National Bodybuilding Championships in Brisbane, a super fit Glew won both the Bodybuilding and Classic Physique categories in his division –a massive achievement for a relative newcomer.
It follows his gold medal success in his maiden competition back in April at the iCompeteNatural (ICN) Show in Canberra where he claimed the ACT Junior Under 23 title and
finished third in the Opens event.
ICN is the world leader in natural bodybuilding and physique contests and welcomes all members of the fitness community.
Glew later clinched a State title at the ICN NSW Championships at Rooty Hill
“Winning the two gold medals at my first-ever national titles was a surreal moment,” he told News Of The Area.
“It was a nice reward for all the toil in the gym over the past few years and discipline with my overall training.”
Judges score points on poses and muscle look in the bodybuilding category with emphasis on symmetry and more intense posing in Classic Physique.
“Confidence is also a major factor when the judging panel assesses
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
It’s Normine B again. It was so much worse than you imagined.
As my brother in law was ripping down the driveway, he knocked over my prize geraniums, breaking the pot and my heart while he was at it.
The dog thankfully came away unscathed, but the cat wasn’t so lucky.
He now has a bruise on his nose.
I’m thinking of filing a lawsuit. What do you think?
Normine B
Dear Normine,
Signs welcoming us to different towns, even some shops.
When Matthew Flinders circumnavigated Australia and took with him the Eora man Bungaree, he thought Bungaree would be able to act as interpreter.
Didn’t happen.
All over this country of ours are borders between ‘countries’.
Different languages, different cultures, subtle physical differences. They traded with each other and met on occasions for social (and not so social) occasions.
There are close family and friends where we can just drop in, walk in, and be made welcome, particularly if they know we’re coming, and we have family and friends who can just drop in on us, particularly if we know they’re visiting.
We wouldn’t just walk in uninvited to the home of an acquaintance, or a stranger.
Throughout the ages different Indigenous Peoples would, out of courtesy, announce their arrival and
SPORT
While I would not normally respond to two conundrums from the same person, I now feel emotionally involved in your life (a dangerous position for an Agony Aunt to be in).
This morning, I woke to a frightful vision of your brother fanging it down the driveway in his (noiseless) Tesla, hence not alerting the dog or cat.
I then imagined him careening into your prized geraniums, a shard of terracotta flinging against his bumper and slicing through his "I bought it before he was crazy" sticker (a foreshadowing of your brother's declining mental state that those following along should
wait to be welcomed.
Herein lies the difference: A Welcome to Country can only be given by an Elder of the traditional land.
Acknowledgement of Country is a reminder, an acknowledgement that there were, for thousands of years, traditional custodians of the place in which we find ourselves.
We’re starting to acknowledge their custodianship, their deep connection to the land and fidelity to it, and our part of their history,
competitors, which could prove the difference in an even contest.”
Glew is in the first year of an Exercise and Physiology degree at Newcastle University, and played rugby and tennis before taking an interest in natural bodybuilding in 2023.
To get into top shape he commenced an intensive training regime.
Now with two national titles under his belt, the fitness guru has qualified to compete at the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF) Championships in the United States during November.
It is an assignment Glew will ponder over the coming months as he maintains top fitness and body shape.
Staying strong and healthy has always been a fitness mantra for the hard working teenager.
He works as a personal trainer at Our Gym Nelson Bay and puts in an extra 17 hours a weekwith two hour sessions on the spin bike plus lifting weights - as he seeks to optimise his training, diet and rest.
“Evolving your technique is also important to give you an edge over other competitors in this challenging sport.”
take note of).
The dog (a white Shitzu) now alert to the ruckus, bolted under the house and managed to commando roll in a sticky black substance hidden there for a future fireplace restoration.
When he emerged, he looked more like Pepe le Pew.
It was not his finest moment and an ominous precursor to his showdog potential the following weekend.
Meanwhile, while your head was buried in your lap (crying over spilt geraniums and your diminished social standing at the Brinsdale Best in Show Extravaganza), Calvin (your rare Exotic Shorthair with attitude) took the Tesla head on (quite literally).
That he came away with only a bruised nose (and ego) was a miracle in this otherwise cataclysmic (intentional witticism) evening.
Normine, I feel as though this situation is getting too unwieldy to remedy.
I don't recommend a lawsuit, which would be a drawn-out process with no winners.
Sort of a cross between Careful, He Might Hear You and Wolf Creek.
Normine, you need to rise above the situation and let bygones be bygones (though I doubt Calvin will forget this anytime soon).
Re-pot some new geraniums (a tad too obvious metaphor for regeneration) and hold your head high.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
the dispossession, disease and massacres.
And the gap which still exists in legal, health and education.
The theme of National Reconciliation week 2025 is “From Now to Next”.
Let us take this opportunity to listen and learn.
Regards, Barbara LYLE, Tea Gardens.
q Newly-crowned national junior bodybuilding champion Darcy Glew.
READING by Lynne Miles: Isaiah 51: 11 GIVER OF JOY - "The ransomed of the Lord will return and come with joyful singing to Zion and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads. They will obtain gladness and joy and sorrow and sighing will flee away."
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A Marine Park for the future
OPINION
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
WITH the Marine Park Advisory Committee soon to be announced it is time for all of us in the community to consider the best possible outcome for the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park (PS-GLMP).
The largest by area of the six Marine Parks in NSW, the PS-GLMP stretches from Forster in the north along the coastline to Birubi in the south, three nautical miles to sea and covers all the waterways, inlets and lakes in between.
Directly or indirectly the MP will impact on our lives –some more than others.
Port Stephens alone has an amazing cross section of habitat including Broughton, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah and Fingal islands, massive headlands, all the beaches to Birubi plus the massive expanse of the port including the Myall Lakes system, the Karuah River and Tilligerry Creek.
Mangrove forests, sea grasses, mud flats, brackish lakes, rocky foreshores, deep and shallow reef systems and
long expanses of sandy beaches – we have it all.
Who then are the major stakeholders?
Commercial and recreational fishers and underwater divers certainly have a major stake in the park, along with charter boat operators and the tourism industry as a whole.
Environmentalists will definitely want a say in how best to protect local habitat and natural resources, and the Worimi have a growing involvement in cultural awareness as they discover increasing evidence of their forefathers through research and archaeological digs.
Scientists will be relied upon to provide accurate, well researched findings on which changes to the Marine Park’s boundaries and zoning will be decided.
The boundary of the park will remain; it is the zoning within the boundary which will be the greatest point of interest to locals and visitors alike – namely, Sanctuary Zoning.
Where commercial fishers can cast their nets and set their traps and where recreational fishers can cast their lines.
I recall a meeting I attended some time back when the top
recreational fishers in the port were asked to name the biggest issue that confronted them inside the Marine Park.
Overwhelmingly the answer was “confusion!”.
The Zoning lines that were drawn up as far back as 2009 indicating where you could and could not go fishing and the methods that you could use were, in far too many cases, bewildering.
With the hindsight and experience that we have gathered over the past 20 years, the Advisory body will be expected to assist in delivering a Marine Park map that
can be clearly followed.
The final and most pressing question that needs to be asked is: what do we expect to benefit by establishing the PS-GLMP? Why have a Marine Park?
The answer is simple – the future.
Marine Parks are around Australia and worldwide, their benefits are based on protecting certain habitats and resources for future generations.
It is hoped that significant numbers in this community will contribute to making the PS-GLMP an asset to be proud of.
Stinker’s Fishin’: Bream hit Fingal
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
HERE we go!
Bream are pouring onto all the beaches from Stockton north to Fingal. Young Maitland visitors Alby Nancarrow and his cousin Nav wandered along Fingal Beach last weekend with a bucket of nippers that were pumped on the sand flats at Corlette.
Tossing just behind the shore break the boys hit the jackpot with cracker bream, whiting and a flathead bouncing up the beach.
Of all the beaches available to us I have found that the best results come from either Stockton or Fingal.
Little to no news from Kingsley, One Mile or Samurai.
Gannies and Box Beach do produce bream at this time of the year depending on the direction of the wind.
Any breeze from the west is preferred.
Worms, pipis, nippers and fresh mullet strips are preferred baits however prawns and a fillet of any surface fish will suffice including tailor, slimy mackerel, yellowtail and bonito.
If you are a lazy beach fisherman like me, take a folding chair and a metre or so of PVC pipe on your next outing. Drive the pipe into the sand at the waters edge, toss out and take a seat.
Fish are very good at catching themselves.
My favourite bream are those caught off the beaches.
Snowy white and in top condition, the winter bream have arrived in excellent numbers on Stockton and Fingal Beaches.
Fish to 1.8kg are swallowing pipis, worms and mullet strips.
Hit the beach on a rising tide, toss out and hang on!
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee or of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the editor around available space, relevance and appropriateness. media@newsofthearea.com.au
q Marine Parks are
q Mav (left) and Alby Nancarrow with a couple of 42cm bream caught off Fingal Beach last Sunday. The boys were using live nippers and ended up with 18 bream, seven whiting and one flathead.
Netballers primed for State titles
By Chris KARAS
NELSON Bay and Port Stephens netball associations will field competitive lineups at this weekend’s Netball NSW Senior titles in Sydney.
They are part of a strong Hunter representation at the coveted annual championships to determine the best senior netball teams in NSW.
Fiona McGrath’s rising U17s outfit has produced solid performances at recent
representative carnivals as have the U15s, who will be co-coached by stalwart Rep Convenor Amanda Wilks and daughter Taylar Wilks.
Ashlee Hall, who doubles as Nelson Bay’s U11 Development Squad coach, will guide the Opens team.
The U17s stamped their mark at this year’s Hunter and Central Coast Regional Netball Championships, progressing to the semi finals but bowing out after an 18-12 loss to Charlestown.
Leading the way were top juniors Melody Tibbs, Chelsea Johnson, Isabella Gardner, Amber Redman, Charlize Fines, Anneliese Jones, Charli Ball, Kate Slade and Tara Kenny.
Since then the squad has shown improvement and continue to hone their on-court skills under the mentorship of coach McGrath and experienced manager Michelle Webber.
U17 netball reps chase state
honours
q Port Stephens U17yrs rep netballballers are chasing more trophy honours at NSW titles.
q Nelson Bay’s U17 rep squad hopes to impress at the State Senior Netball titles in Sydney this weekend.
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens Netball Association’s representative teams hope to turn back the clock at this long weekend’s Senior State titles in Sydney.
Last year the Port Stephens club celebrated a Division Four championship triumph in the 17 years and under-age category plus a top three ranking in the 15 years and under division.
Successful Under 17s coach Emma Penfold has assembled another skilful squad for this year’s three day carnival to be staged at both the Camden and Campbelltown Netball Association courts.
After bringing home a trophy in 2024, coach Emma has an abundance of talent in her current U17 charges, who have made an impression at various representative carnivals this season.
Earlier this year the Port Stephens U17s reached the
Tribute to gold medallist Stan Golinski
By Chris KARAS
HAWKS Nest has lost highlyrespected Commonwealth Games target rifle shooting gold medallist and Navy veteran Stan Golinski.
A popular Peter Sinclair Gardens RSL Life Care resident in the Great Lakes region, Golinski passed away on 24 May, just three weeks shy of his 92nd birthday.
Stan is best remembered for his achievements as a competitive target rifle shooter.
His greatest triumph was clinching an individual gold medal for Australia at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, Scotland, in the Fullbore Rifle Queens Prize Open competition.
The legendary Golinski etched his name in folklore –becoming the first Australian to win the event at either an Empire or Commonwealth Games - with a record score of 396 points.
In another proud moment at the Games, he backed up to claim a silver medal in the Teams event while pairing up with James Corbett and posting another record score of 583 points.
At the height of his target rifle shooting career, Stan was a fierce competitor.
He competed at four World Championships in
Venezuela, Moscow, Italy and Spain, and was a member of 13 state teams and 16 Australian teams.
Stan won six Queens Prizes including two National Queens and was also the first and only Australian to win the Canadian Governor-General’s Prize – the Canadian Open Championship - with a record score.
In the 1988 Bicentenary Palma Match held at the ANZAC Range in Sydney, Golinski and his coach Reg Rowlands demonstrated their class and poise by top scoring.
It was another proud honour for the Hawks Nest serviceman.
Born and educated at Marist Brothers in Brisbane, Stan joined the Royal Australian Navy at the age of 17 where he rose to the rank of Petty Officer Clearance Diver.
He was coxswain of Clearance Diving Teams Numbers One and Two and also filled the billet of Chief Clearance Diver on HMAS Sydney during the Vietnam War.
Stan served on HMAS Australia, Condamine, Anzac, Vendetta, Yarra, Melbourne and Sydney, and was awarded the General Service Medal - Clasp Borneo plus Malaya Peninsula; the Australian
Service Medal – Clasp Korea plus Far East Strategic Reserve; Logistic Support Medal – Vietnam; Admiral of the Fleet’s Commendation (FOCAF.); Australian Active Services Medal – Clasp Vietnam and Malaysia; and Pingate Jasa Malaysia.
Stan met his wife Joy at the Journalist Club in Sydney on New Years Eve 1968 and worked as a diver for an oil rig until 1975, and then for Sydney’s Prince Henry Hospital as Officer in Charge of the Hyperbaric Chamber, until his retirement in 1998.
Upon leaving the Navy, he
was able to devote more time to his target rifle shooting passion.
Stan’s late wife Joy described him as “a very deep thinker and a man who would readily help anyone that was willing to listen.”
He’ll always be remembered as a respectful, kind-hearted man but when it was needed, was as brave and fierce as a lion.
You could find no better man to be in the trenches with than Stan Golinski.
Stan is survived by his daughter Judy.
elimination finals in the Netball NSW Hunter and Central Coast Division Four Regional Championships held at the Maitland Basketball Stadium.
The girls defeated Kurri Kurri 13-12, Nelson Bay 12-11 and Singleton 23-11 but succumbed to eventual champions Callaghan (1914), runners-up Woy Woy (16-12) and Charlestown (15-10) in a very competitive series.
In the knockout final, Nelson Bay exacted revenge over their Port Stephens neighbours with a spirited 17-11 victory.
The Port Stephens squad features exciting prospects in Bronte Bohan, Sarah Byrne, Laura Moir, Lily Peters, Caitlin
All 10 players have shown their versatility and teamwork, natural skills and will, to win on court during carnival play and head into the State titles with a purple patch of form.
Long-serving Port Stephens Netball Representative Convenor Sam Rumbel believes this year’s U17 squad will prove as competitive as ever.
“They have clicked as a team from the outset with consistent performances at all representative carnivals this season and inspire our junior netballers with their determination and great sportsmanship.”
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a Stableford competition played at Nelson Bay GC on Monday 26th May with 16 players.
Nett Winner : Gary Chapman, 37pts.
Bonus Point Winner : Michael Moussa, 37pts. Nearest the Pin, 5th Hole, Div 1 : Phil Rogan. Div 2 : David Hurley.
Nearest the Pin, 14th Hole,
Div 1 : John McKenzie (v) Div 2 : No Winner. Drive & Chip, 8th Hole, Div 1 : Gary Chapman. Div 2 : David Hurley. Drive & Chip, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Phil Rogan. Div 2 : Brian Marshall. Ball Winners : David Hurley 36pts, John McKenzie (v) 36pts, Brian Marshall 35pts, Robert Paul 34pts and Barry Leo 34pts.
Muree Golf Results
By Lee RANKIN
SATURDAY 17th May. Stableford.
Porter, Blair Vorenkamp, Emily Crain, Isla Forster, Caitlin Scanes and Lilia Frize.
q Hawks Nest navy veteran and rifle shooting gold medallist Stan Golinski has died aged 91.
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THE PIANO
ABC TV, 7.30pm
You’d have to be made of stone not to shed a tear when watching this poignant and powerful reality series highlighting the extraordinary stories of everyday Australians and the power of the piano. Hidden away as host Amanda Keller interrogated the public in train stations, shopping centres and markets, musical powerhouse Harry Connick Jr and classic concert pianist Andrea Lam have slowly been casting for a concert at Sydney’s City Recital Hall – and tonight’s the big night. With Connick Jr and Lam guiding them, Grace, John, Stefania (pictured), DJ and Vincenzo will share the musical opportunity of a lifetime.
FRIDAY, June 6
6.00 News. 9.00 News.
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
7.00 ABC News. 7.35 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis discovers how a sauna can save frogs. 8.35 The One That Got Away. (Mal) Rick and Ffion face a dangerous new suspect.
Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 10.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 11.20 ABC Late News.
11.40 Father Brown. (PGav, R) 12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
MONDAY
FARMER WANTS A WIFE
SEVEN, 7.30pm
As finale week begins for this romantic reality romp, two farmers have already found their happily ever afters (or so we believe… we’ll find out how their fairytales have turned out in an upcoming reunion). A third – South Australian wheat, barley and lentil producer Thomas (pictured) – is on the cusp of telling Clarette that she’s won his heart, but first he has to break the news to Rachael and Laura. Meanwhile, Jack and Corey find out if mother really knows best – taking the contestants of their parents’ choosing on their final 24-hour dates. Jack makes up for lost time with vet Olivia, while Corey heads out on the water with Keeley and prepares for a tough goodbye back at the farm.
THURSDAY KILLING SHERLOCK WITH LUCY WORSLEY
It’s hard to imagine that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of literature’s most famous detective, Sherlock
Holmes – the hero of more than 60 original stories and more adaptations than we have space to list – came to hate his iconic creation. But as historian Lucy Worsley (pictured) examines in this intriguing three-part series, Doyle decided that his rather lucrative character had made him enough money, and sent Holmes over the edge of a waterfall in a 1893 story. In Thursday’s conclusion, Worsley investigates what drove Doyle to revive the sleuth in 1903 and how the author had a falling out with magician Houdini.
6.00 NBN News.
6.00 Seven News.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Malta: The Jewel Of The Mediterranean. (PGa, R) 9.15 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Atlantic Crossing. (PGa, R) 11.55 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R) 1.45 The Head. (Malv) 3.45 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGal) Mel Doyle and Shane Crawford are joined by Yvie Jones and Dr Renee Lim to explore pet therapy.
9.30 MOVIE: Where The Crawdads Sing. (2022, Masv, R) A girl becomes a murder suspect. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith.
12.05 Nurses. (Ma, R)
1.05 Harry’s Practice. (R)
1.35 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 14. Dolphins v St George Illawarra Dragons.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus St George Illawarra Dragons match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+alv, R) An FBI agent is enlisted to help fight the war on drugs. Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin.
1.00 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple want to move to the Northern Beaches. 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. (Ml, R) Celebrities include Pamela Anderson. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
6.00
SATURDAY, June 7
6.10 Father Brown. (Final, PGav)
Mrs Devine’s son is framed for murder.
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Sister Julienne presents Joyce with an award.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R)
The discovery of a saint’s bones at an archaeological dig causes a stir in the village.
10.05 Bergerac. (Ml, R) There’s a breakthrough in the search for Cate’s phone.
10.50 Reunion. (Mlv, R) Christine is closer to the answers she seeks.
11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm The Most Magnificent Thing. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. (Return) 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar: Freedom. (Mal, R) Elizabeth Taylor struggles to reinvent herself.
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: English Country Idyll (Stourhead And Scotney Castle) (PGa) Explores a missing masterpiece.
9.35 Alone Australia. (Ml, R) The weather creates havoc.
11.35 Suspect. (MA15+av, R)
3.35 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R) 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) A look at immigration, customs and quarantine.
7.30 Football. AFL. Round 13. GWS Giants v Port Adelaide. From Corroboree Group Manuka Oval, Canberra.
10.30 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012, Mv, R)
A US Navy ship fights aliens. Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård.
1.05 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Perth Super 440. Day 1. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGal, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: No Time To Die. (2021, Malv, R) 11.45 MOVIE: Into The Blue 2: The Reef. (2009, MA15+sv, R)
1.15 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)
1.35 The Garden Gurus. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
SUNDAY, June 8
6.30 Compass: Grief, A Love Story. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (Final, PG) The day of the concert arrives.
8.30 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv) Bergerac must save his daughter, confront his past and finally crack the case.
9.25 Reunion. (Final, Malv) Brennan promises Carly he won’t leave her.
10.25 MOVIE: Partisan. (2015, MA15+av, R)
12.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
1.35 Grantchester. (Mv, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 4.45pm Gardening Australia Junior. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Bluey’s Big Play. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Isadora Moon. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Super Shark Highway. (Premiere) 10.30 Abbott Elementary. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (Final, PG, R)
8.25 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (Mav, R)
9.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 1. 11.05 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R)
11.55 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)
2.40 The World From Above. (R)
3.40 Living With The Boss. (PG, R)
4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6am The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 8.05 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 10.00 The Tender Bar. (2021, M) Noon Radioactive. (2019, M) 2.05 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 4.15 Goal! (2005, PG) 6.25 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 8.30 The Drover’s Wife. (2021, MA15+) 10.30 Day And Night. (2010, MA15+, German) 12.25am The 355. (2022, M) 2.40 Late Programs. 6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Belle. (2013, PG) 8.30 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 10.35 The 355. (2022, M) 12.50pm Lions For Lambs. (2007, M) 2.30 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.25 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 6.25 Charade. (1963, PG) 8.30 The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 10.15 Sira. (2023, MA15+, French) 12.30am The Drover’s Wife. (2021, MA15+) 2.30 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm
6am Morning Programs. 9.50 Motorway
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls)
8.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody. (Malv) 10.00 Crime Investigation Australia. (Mav, R)
11.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 5. Perth Super 440. Day 2. Highlights. 12.20 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R)
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, 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 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PGl) 8.40
MOVIE: Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Monster Family 2. (2021, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PG) 10.15 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs.
6.00 The Sunday Project. Joins panellists
Talking Honey. (R) 1.00 Destination WA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Business Drive. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30
MONDAY, June 9
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 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Junior Vets. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.10 Dance Life. 10.00 Secret Life Of The Koala. (Premiere) 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PGa, R)
8.20 Michael Palin In Nigeria. (PGaw, R)
9.15 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)
10.05 SBS World News Late.
10.35 Living Black. (R)
11.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 2. 1.25 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)
3.15 The World From Above. (PG, R)
3.45 Living With The Boss. (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 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) The final 24-hour dates end with some unexpected revelations from the ladies before an emotional farm farewell.
9.00 9-1-1. (Mav) Athena attempts to land the plane before it crashes and calls on the 118 for help.
11.00 The Agenda Setters.
12.00 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Malv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Dancing
Ninja. (2010, PG) 7.50 Charade. (1963, PG) 10.00
Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, M) Noon The Whole Truth. (2016, M) 1.40 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 3.45 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 5.50 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 7.30 The Straight Story. (1999) 9.40 Vampyros Lesbos. (1971, German) 11.20 The City Of Lost Children. (1995, M,
TUESDAY, June 10
10.30 The Business. (R) 10.50 Four Corners. (R) 11.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 11.55 Books That Made Us. (Final, Malsv, R) 12.50 Love Your Garden. (R) 1.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 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? (PGals)
8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Highgrove: The King’s Country Home. (R) 11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 3. 1.25 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
3.05 The World From Above. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PG)
100% Footy. (M)
9News Late.
Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Mas)
Hello SA. (PG)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice. (PGa) 4.30 ACA.
6.00
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.
8.35 Doc. (Ma) Amy and Richard reconnect while treating a patient whose diagnosis is not at all what it seems.
9.35 Accused. (Mav) A divorced woman is put on trial.
10.35 The Agenda Setters.
11.35 Autopsy USA: Adam West. (Ma)
12.35 Fairly Legal. (PGalsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
WEDNESDAY, June 11
6.00
Alone Australia. (M)
8.30 The Veil. (Mal) Imogen and Adilah continue their journey to Paris.
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 History Of The Amalfi Coast. (PGa, R)
11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 4.
1.25 The Wall: The Orchard. (Malsv, R)
3.05 The World From Above. (R) 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (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 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.10 Junior Vets. 8.40 BTN Newsbreak. 8.45 Abbott Elementary. 9.30 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs.
Afternoon Agenda. 4.30 Business Now With Ross Greenwood. 5.00 The Kenny Report. 6.00 Credlin. 7.00 Bolt Report. 8.00 Sharri. 9.00 Paul Murray Live. 10.00 The Late Debate. 11.00 Late Programs. SKY NEWS (53)
THURSDAY,
6.00
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan. 10.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
11.00 Born To Kill? (Mav, R)
12.00 Touching Evil. (MA15+adv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Swimming. Australian Trials. Day 3. Finals. 9.40 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
10.40 9News Late.
11.10 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Next Stop. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
ABC FAMILY (22)
MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.20 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 8.15 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 10.20 Gosford Park. (2001, M) 12.55pm Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi) 3.15 The Movie Show. 3.45 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 5.25 A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 7.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, M) 9.30 The Piano. (1993, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs.
June 12
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.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Our Medicine. (PG)
8.45 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley. (PGh)
9.45 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mv)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 The Day The Rock Star Died: Buddy Holly. (R) 11.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Critérium du Dauphiné. Stage 5. 1.25 Pagan Peak. (MA15+asv, R) 3.05 The World From Above. (R) 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PGa, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am WorldWatch. 9.50 Soccer. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 (Re)Solved. 1.25 Uncovering Incels. 1.40 Late Life Lesbians. 2.35 Framed. 3.05 News. 3.10 WorldWatch. 5.10 Forged In Fire. 6.00 Alone Germany. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Seven. (1995, MA15+) 10.50 MOVIE: Hereditary. (2018, MA15+) 1.10am (Re)Solved. 2.05 Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over. 3.00 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Mastermind Australia. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Dirty Rotten Cleaners. 2.10 Insight. 3.10 News. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Forged In Fire.
Shopping. 6.30 TBA. 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
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00
(2022,
2.00
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: Space Cowboys. (2000, PG) 11.10 Seinfeld. 11.40
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGads) Harper might be making the wrong choice.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (Final, PG) Judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli must decide who will be the winner and pocket $250,000.
11.00 Inside Detroit. (Mal, R)
12.30 Raines. (Mahv)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
(64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00
Thursday, 5 June 2025
Macau bound
By Chris KARAS
Bay
golfer Lachlan
Pearson will live his dream when he tees off at the tenth annual Macau Golf Masters tournament this month.
The talented 16-year-old, who was diagnosed with autism at an early age, is set to pit his skills against top competitors from 21 countries at the world’s biggest golf tournament for people with intellectual disabilities.
Pearson, a 16.9 marker at Nelson Bay Golf Club, will fly the flag for Port Stephens in the Challenge League competition, which embraces golfers from across the disability spectrum.
He is one of three NSW golfers travelling to the south coast region of China to participate in the three day international event at the prestigious Macau Golf and Country Club course.
The Challenge League division caters for golfers with handicaps ranging from 11 to 25 while the world’s best 14 players with handicaps from scratch to 10, will line-up in the World League phase.
Pearson was cock-a-hoop when he learned of his selection in the All Abilities Golf team.
“I can’t believe that I am going to Macau to play at the Masters, this is a dream come true,” he told News Of The Area.
“This is a great opportunity to play against some of the world’s best golfers and improve my game plus experience the different cultures.
“I love my golf and look forward to the trip.”
Pearson will represent Australia when he competes with 24 other golfers in the 18-hole individual stroke play event over two rounds, with the final to be staged on the third day.
It will be a magic milestone for the emerging player in his first-ever overseas tournament, although golfing runs in his family.
Father, Rory, and grandparents Pam and John Townsend, are legends at Nelson Bay Golf Club while mother Clare has supported her gifted son every step of the journey.
Pearson, who attends the Tomaree High School Support Unit, picked up his first golf club at the age of six and remembers tagging along the Nelson Bay course on weekends, watching his dad secure plenty of silverware.
At the age of 13, he began playing competition golf and was soon chalking up a long list of tournament victories on the NSW north coast.
He won back-to-back gold medals at the Golf Nationals at Palm Meadows on the Gold Coast aged 14 and 15 and is chasing a hat trick at this year’s event in October.
He also tasted success at the Golf NSW All Abilities tournament at Coffs Harbour.
The big hitter has developed a strong long game under the coaching of Horizons Golf Club pro Vince Owen in recent years, and has relished the opportunity to “listen and learn.”
With 12 winning medals already in his trophy cabinet, there are more honours beckoning in the Special Olympics cauldron for this exceptional young golfer.
q Nelson Bay golfer Lachlan Pearson will tee off at the tenth annual Macau Golf Masters tournament from 25-27 June.