Labor’s Meryl Swanson re-elected as Paterson MP for fourth term
FROM Page 1
mornings, late nights, and an incredible team behind me every step of the way,” he posted to social media.
“From letterboxing in the rain, to sign-waving in the sun, to standing up for the projects and policies our community deserves, I’ve given this campaign
everything I have, because Paterson means everything to me.”
Independent candidate Philip Penfold congratulated Ms Swanson on her win, and said he believed a “hot contest in Paterson” resulted in “significant promises” being made for the region, including $100m for a flyover at Maitland Station and an Urgent Care Clinic in Maitland.
Mr Penfold will continue to serve as Maitland’s Mayor.
q Labor MP Meryl Swanson casts her vote in Saturday’s federal election.
Photo: Meryl Swanson MP FB.
Lyne and Paterson vote in 2025 Federal Election
DEMOCRACY was exercised yet again across the country last week, with voters of the Federal electorates of Lyne and Paterson heading to the polls to have their say on the nation’s future leadership.
Candidates’ volunteer armies mobilised at polling places across the electorates, wearing distinctive campaign t-shirts and brandishing ‘Howto-Vote’ cards.
Polling places around the Myall Coast saw a varied mix of volunteers, as Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) workers diligently carried out the mechanics of democracy inside.
At Hawks Nest and North Arm Cove community centres, only two ballot candidates had volunteers outside, while at Karuah Public School there were four noticeable groups of campaign volunteers.
At Tea Gardens Public School, the most popular for Myall Coast voters, volunteers representing almost all Lyne candidates formed a multicoloured sea of party colours.
As the AEC finalises the vote in the week hence, a true litmus test for Australia’s democracy will be the 'informal vote' count.
As of Sunday 4 May, 8,719 informal votes had been counted in the Lyne electorate, representing about eight percent of the vote.
Across the Paterson electorate, 7,745 votes were informal.
In both electorates the ‘informal’ vote actually ranked more popular than 70 percent of candidates on the ballot.
Ten candidates contested the seat of Lyne in the House of Representatives, including nine party candidates and one independent.
Paterson also had 10
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candidates, with seven parties and three independents.
The AEC, the official source of Federal Election results, publishes and updates two-candidate preferred (TCP) counts.
As of Monday, Alison Penfold had retained Lyne for the Nationals with a comfortable 60.55 percent of the TCP vote, while Paterson was retained by Meryl Swanson for Labor with 56.88 percent.
Since its creation in a redistribution back in 1949, Lyne has been a historically safe electorate for the Nationals, only having been held by one Independent,
being Rob Oakeshott (20082013).
Mr Oakeshott started his political career as a Nationals candidate in the 1996 State election for the electorate of Port Macquarie, choosing to become an Independent there before successfully contesting the 2008 Lyne by-election.
The neighbouring Paterson electorate has a different backstory, having existed twice.
The first time (19491984) it was held for 20 years by the Liberals, then 15 years by Country/Nationals.
After it was re-created for the 1993 Federal election, Paterson encompassed
several towns on the Myall Coast that are now under Lyne.
The parliamentary seat bounced between Bob Horne (ALP) and Bob Baldwin (LIB) for four successive elections, until Baldwin managed to hold on for 15 years from the 2001 election.
In 2015, Paterson was reconfigured by the AEC to exclude the Myall Coast townships, which all went to Lyne.
The 2016 election saw Paterson become a safe Labor seat, won by Meryl Swanson, who held it through to the 2025 election.
q ‘Democracy sausages’ were on offer at North Arm Cove, hosted by the local RFS.
q Alex, Josh, David and Sally supporting various Lyne candidates at Tea Gardens Public School.
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Albanese takes victory lap after Labor landslide
By Andrew BROWN, AAP with Reuters
ANTHONY Albanese has pledged unity in his second term as more Labor MPs are elected to parliament in a decisive victory for his government.
Labor stormed home to victory in the federal election in an emphatic landslide, reducing the coalition to one of their worst performances at the polls and losing their own leader in the process.
Spending the day after the election in his inner-western Sydney electorate of Grayndler, Mr Albanese pledged he would lead a unified government.
"The Australian people voted for unity rather than division," he told reporters on Sunday.
"We will be a disciplined, orderly government in our second term, just like we have been in our first."
He later spent time with party volunteers at a brewery, alongside his fiancee Jodie Haydon and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.
With 75 percent of the vote counted, Labor had won 86 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives, claiming a larger majority than their first term in office.
The coalition had been consigned to just 39 seats, with its lowest primary vote on record since the party's formation.
The Greens were also yet to claim any seats.
After their 2022 success, teal independents held on to claim a second term, with Nicolette Boele in the Sydney seat of Bradfield joining their ranks.
Labor has increased its majority through substantial swings across all states, picking up marginal seats and formerly coalition strongholds.
Among the significant wins for Labor was Peter Dutton's electorate of Dickson, as he became the first opposition leader to lose his seat at an election.
Labor's Ali France won the seat in her third time contesting the electorate, booting Mr Dutton out of parliament after a 24-year career.
Mr Albanese expressed sympathy for Mr Dutton following the election outcome.
"It's a tough business, politics, there's no doubt about that, and it would have been a tough night for Peter."
The outgoing Liberal leader said he would take full responsibility for the election loss as the coalition looks to rebuild.
"We didn't do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious," Mr Dutton told party supporters in Brisbane on Saturday.
Liberal Deputy Leader Sussan Ley said Saturday was a very difficult night for her party and it was reflecting on the results with humility.
"Today, our thoughts are also with many Liberal colleagues who have lost their seats, indeed all 150 candidates who ran for the Liberal and National parties across the country," Ms Ley said.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers said Mr Albanese will go down in history as a Labor hero following the result.
"This was beyond
even our most optimistic expectations," he told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday.
Soul searching would soon begin for the coalition as they begin the process of electing a new leader.
Liberal Keith Wolahan, who lost his Victorian seat of Menzies after one term, said the party needed to rebuild.
"It was clear our party has an issue in urban Australia, which is where most people live... so we need to turn our mind to that like we have never done before," he said.
"We need to really dig deep and think about who we are and who we fight for and who makes up Australia."
Nationals leader David Littleproud said Labor had run the stronger campaign, which made it hard to prosecute the case for a coalition government.
q Anthony Albanese spoke of unity not division on a victory lap of his home electorate of Grayndler. Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS.
Thrive
for Life
Seniors’ Seminar: Your Ticket to a healthier, More Vibrant Life
Who says ageing means slowing down? If you think your best years are behind you, think again. Seniors today are rewriting the script – staying active, sharp, and independent well into their golden years.
But let’s be honest: all seniors reach a time when health and wellbeing become a concern, or at least a more important focus. On Saturday, May 24th a team of leading local health and wellbeing experts will gather to provide free advice for anyone determined to age on their own terms. Forget one-size-fits-all advice.
This seminar recognises that everyone’s needs are unique. Some may worry about the risk of falls or maintaining their independence, others juggle medication, and many are simply searching for ways to stay fit and active without risking injury. This free event offers four, 20-minute sessions to discuss these
concerns, offering actionable tips and real solutions. Session highlights include: Age Actively, Live Fully: Why settle for just more years when you can have more life in your years? Discover how movement-tailored to your abilities can boost energy, independence, and joy. Whether you’re manag-
ing a health issue or just want to keep up with the grandkids, this session delivers practical steps for a more vibrant daily routine. Stay Steady, Stay Independent: Falls are a leading threat to senior independence, but they’re not inevitable. Learn how to strengthen your balance, spot hidden home hazards, and keep your footing—literally and figuratively.
Master Your Medications:
Modern medications can add years to your life but can also be risky if not properly managed and regularly reviewed. This session explains the importance of understanding what you are taking and offers a chance to arrange a personal medicine review with a local pharmacist, so you can take charge of your health.
Home Care, Your Way:
Is daily life getting trickier to manage? Most seniors want to remain living independently, however as we age, additional assistance with cleaning or personal care can really help. Former myHomecare Group CEO Andrew Mann will break down the basics of finding the right support, so you can stay safe and independent at home—without sacrificing comfort or dignity.
The Thrive for Life Seniors’ Seminar is being held at Blueheath Village in Medowie, so attendees can also tour brand-new, purpose-built
homes. See how smart design and a commitment to healthy, supported community living can make all the difference in daily life.
As David Kelly from Blueheath Village puts it, “We’re not just supporting health and wellbeing, we’re helping seniors enjoy the retirement they deserve, on their own terms. Whether they remain in their own home, or move into our new, purpose-built homes that have been designed to maximise mobility and minimise falls, all seniors can benefit from this seminar”
Ageing isn’t about fading into the background. It’s about living well, sharing stories, and embracing new adventures. The Blueheath ‘Thrive for Life’ Seminar is a one-day event on Saturday, May 24th from 11am to 2pm. The day is completely free and comes with a complimentary lunch, lucky door prizes, and tours of brand-new display homes. How to register
Tickets are limited. To book, please visit blueheath.com.au or call Adam on 0421 888 115.
Find your perfect balance
A health and wellness seminar for seniors
Worried about falls? Confused about home care options? Looking for the right balance between action and relaxation?
The Blueheath ‘Thrive for Life’ Seminar brings together industry experts with tips for a longer, healthier retirement lifestyle. This free one day event comes with a complimentary lunch, lucky door prizes, and early bird views of our brand new homes. You might say it’s a great day to see how perfect your future can be. But hurry, numbers are limited. Book now at blueheath.com.au
SATURDAY MAY 24 FROM 11 AM TO 2 PM 34 Western Road, Medowie
Tour of Blueheath facilities and homes are on offer at Blueheath on May 24
Little terns continue remarkable comeback
LITTLE terns in NSW have experienced another strong breeding season, with more than 900 nests counted across the state, the second-highest number in 24 years.
Each spring, these tiny seabirds migrate thousands of kilometres across the ocean to nest on Australian shores, including on the beaches and islands of Port Stephens.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Acting Deputy Secretary Trish Harrup said, “To see an increase in numbers of a threatened species for two consecutive years is an incredible achievement and it’s not possible without a cast of hundreds to lend their time to this important cause.
"I’d like to thank all those across the state who give their time, including volunteers, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service staff, local councils, land managers, contractors and stakeholders who conducted over 5000 observations at nest sites this season.
“Despite these promising numbers, these birds remain on the edge, and continued efforts are vital to protect them along our coast, and every person can play a role in making a difference.”
During the most recent breeding period, nests were spotted at 24 sites along the coast, ranging from Wilsons Head in Yuraygir National Park north of Coffs Harbour, right down to Merimbula on the far NSW south coast.
Counts of active nests in the 2024-25 season suggest at least 485 breeding pairs of little terns nested in NSW, a jump from last year’s number of around 430.
This incredible number of breeding pairs resulted in an estimated 510 fledglings, making it the highest count of fledglings recorded and a substantial jump from last year’s figure of around 370.
Each year, there are standout colonies across
the state and Karagi Point on the Central Coast led the way again, where almost 45 percent of the state’s little tern fledglings were hatched.
Sites at Lake Conjola and Lake Wollumboola on the South Coast also experienced positive results.
Despite uplifting results, little terns and other beachnesting birds remain vulnerable to a wide range of threats, including native and introduced predators, crushing and disturbance from vehicles, humans and domestic dogs, flooding of nesting sites and adverse weather conditions.
Beach-nesting birds, like little terns, lay eggs directly on the sand where they are so well camouflaged, they become almost invisible, making them vulnerable to beach visitors.
It’s important beach goers understand the impact they can have on the breeding season of these endangered
birds over spring and summer every year.
When attending beaches during breeding season, beach users should:
· Make sure dogs are only walked on an approved dog-beach and always kept on a leash.
· Reduce your chances of stepping on an egg or chick by walking to the water line.
· Keep an eye out for bird nesting signs and fencedoff nesting areas on the beach.
· Only drive on designated 4WD beaches, with the relevant permit, and obey all beach-driving rules including staying out of nesting areas.
· Every year, birds die from entanglement in fishing line or from ingesting rubbish. Take all fishing lines and rubbish with you when you leave.
Karuah commemorates Anzac Day
FOR the first time in many years the Karuah community gathered for an Anzac Day dawn service under wet conditions.
As the inclement weather didn’t allow the traditional service to be held at the memorial, the Karuah RSL club came to the rescue.
Families and veterans, serving and non-serving, gathered in the main bar and stood in silence while they
remembered the sacrifices of Australian Defence Force members and their families over the decades.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington gave the Anzac Day address, and Grace Barry and Riley Smith from Karuah Public School offered a moving recital of "In Flanders Field".
Reverend Gary Parker gave the Benediction, before the Australian National
Anthem was sung with pride by the sizeable crowd, resonating throughout the club.
“The Karuah RSL sub-Branch would like to thank Port Stephens Council, NSW Police and local SES and all other community organisations for making 2025 Anzac Day a great success,” said Robert Whiteman, Publicity Officer, Karuah RSL sub-Branch.
q Locals and visitors young and old gathered in Karuah to commemorate Anzac Day. Photos: Robert Whiteman.
q Little terns have had a strong breeding season.
Photos: Andrew Robinson.
Absolute Waterfront Dream
• Stunning absolute waterfront home where you own right down to the water’s edge
• Flat, well-maintained 815m² block with a beautiful sandy shoreline—no rocks
• Spacious kitchen flowing into a huge living area with high ceilings and exposed beams
• Cozy fireplace with breathtaking water views from the main living space
• Three generous bedrooms with built-in robes and ceiling fans
• Bathrooms located on both levels for added convenience
• Ideal for renovation—ready for your personal touch
• Outdoor entertaining area to soak in the serene surroundings
• Triple garage with workshop space and ample storage
• Every room in the home offers stunning water views
• Just 260m from the beach – hear the waves!
• Torrens title offers full ownership with no strata fees.
• Open-plan layout with two spacious, light-filled living areas.
• Huge undercover outdoor area ideal for entertaining guests.
• Private courtyard creates a peaceful and charming retreat.
• Three large bedrooms, plus potential fourth on ground floor.
• Master bedroom features ensuite for added privacy and comfort.
• Double garage plus extra parking for multiple vehicles.
• Ducted air conditioning ensures year-round climate control comfort.
• Walk to shops, drive to Nelson Bay and Salamander.
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Anna Bay Tavern
Anna Bay Bakery
BYO Cellars Anna Bay
Ingenia Holiday Park
Middle Rock Retirement Village
Anna Bay Village
Seawinds Village
Nelson Bay Bowling Club
Nelson Bay Golf Club
Woolworths Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay Newsagent
Nelson Bay Real Estate
Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay
Seabreeze Hotel
Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre
Tackleword Port Stephens
Essence Cafe
Dolphin Watch Cafe
West Diggers
Harbourside Haven
Bernie Thompson Village
Shoal Bay Pharmacy
IGA Shoal Bay
John Patterson
Bill King Aged Care
Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay
Kreative Space Studio Fingal Bay
Regis Aged Care
Corlette Store
Uniting Care
Homestead Village
Sandy Shores
Big4 Soldiers Point
Soldiers Point Bowling Club
Foodworks Salamander Bay
Wanda Beach Pharmacy
Mobil Salamander Bay
Caltex Salamander Bay
Coles Salamander Bay
Natural Tucker
Woolworths Salamander Bay
Horizons Golf Club
Sunrise Lifestyle Resort
Seaham General Store
Opal Aged Care
Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace
Angeez Takeaway Raymond Terrace
Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace
Terrace Central Plaza Post Office
Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza
Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza
MarketPlace Woolworths
Raymond Terrace Shell
Raymond Terrace Library
Lakeside Newsagent
R&R Property
Foodworks Lakeside
Lakeside Leisure Centre
Muree Golf Club
Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash
Tanilba Bay Nursing Home
Tanilba Bay Retirement Units
Coles Tanilba Bay
Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay
Tanilba Newsagent
Post Office Tanilba Bay
Blue Marine Services
Chemist Lemon Tree
Club Lemon Tree
Tilligerry RSL
Tilligerry Real Estate
Coles Medowie
7-Eleven Medowie
Medowie Newsagent
Medowie Pharmacy
Woolworths Medowie
Medowie Social
Medowie Football Club
BP Servo Medowie
Pacific Dunes Golf Club
Metro Servo (Airport Side)
Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)
Stinker’s History: Fred on the farm
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
FARMER and lobster fisherman Frederick Henry ‘Fred’ Blanch (b 1883), son of John Blanch and Eliza Lorman (Eagleton), married Ella West in 1913.
Fred worked on his father’s farm on Marsh Road from the age of 14 and went net fishing near Mosquito Island.
In 1979 Fred died at the age of 95 years, being the longest living member of his family.
Wife Ella died at the age of 84 years.
The couple had two sons Stanley (1913-1971) and Norman (1916-2008).
Fred’s parents' home still stands today at the corner of Nelson Bay and Soldiers Point Roads, opposite the old Anna Bay tennis courts.
Before buying 100 acres on the Marsh Road, Fred worked for his parents on their Anna Bay farm, fishing and farming oysters in Tilligerry Creek.
A trip to Newcastle took half a day's travel while the Parson’s visit from Williamtown required an overnight stay.
Fred and Ella lived their married lives on Marsh Road.
In more recent years the farm had been operated
that the major problems living on
Road were isolation and lack of adequate transport.
Norman, who continued on the Marsh Road farm, was very well known
the
Stinker’s History: Little road, big problems
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
MARSH Road has displayed a real character over the years that makes it unique.
I chose to write about the road in my latest book because, in my opinion, it has a personality all of its own.
Running through the Port Stephens village of Bobs Farm, there are few roads which have gained as well-earned a reputation for defying all attempts at making it a comfortable, safe thoroughfare.
Never, at any stage, has Marsh Road been considered well-constructed.
It was the case, for well over 100 years, that keeping the road serviceable required ongoing maintenance, never getting in front of the game.
It has always been a case of “catch up and patch up”.
Put bluntly, but accurately, Marsh Road was a “shocker”.
Older residents can still recall when logs were laid over sandy and swampy places.
Even then the track was barely passable and great care had to be taken to avoid broken springs, axles and ruined tyres.
Little road big problems
The Port Stephens Shire Councillors must have been driven to their limits attempting to solve the numerous problems that arose relating to this small, seemingly insignificant thoroughfare.
Far too often the business papers at the council were dominated by the terror strip that was Marsh Road.
Throughout its history the road had many names including The Deviation, the New Road, Anna Bay Deviation, McRae’s Contract Road and many other names that can’t be printed.
The amount of media attention that has focused on the condition of the road amazes me.
So many articles appeared regularly in newspapers from Dungog to Newcastle, Maitland to Raymond Terrace and Nelson Bay.
This focus of attention tells me that the families who depended on Marsh Road were a determined, feisty lot who could not be taken lightly.
They never took a backward step in their attempts to keep their road safe and serviceable.
To those who lived in the area, Marsh Road was a lifeline, a major artery, vital to their very existence.
The farmers were prepared to fight on their knees to preserve the road while the council considered it “a drain hole” for money required for the upkeep.
Complaints relating to the poor condition were continually registered.
Nowadays, in the era of sealed roads and freeways, on which you can travel without so much as a bump, it may be difficult to comprehend the ruggedness of the ‘goat track’ which became known as Marsh Road.
It was recognised as early as 1920 that the ‘road’ through the marshland required ‘special attention’.
Word had been conveyed to the Council that the
track, following the Tilligerry Creek and mangrove forest from Salt Ash to Anna Bay, required attention.
This resulted in the Shire President personally visiting the ‘road’ which was the centre of much negative discussion.
The condition of the ‘road’, at that time, did not impress a Sydney Herald reporter en route to see the wreck of the steamship “Wallamba”, which ran aground in the fog on Morna Point on 11 July, 1923.
The disgruntled reporter said that he was forced to forsake his car by a “sticky morass” and continue by dray which “‘plunged in and out of deep ruts” then by sulky and saddle pony to Morna Point, Anna Bay.
Not the way things were in Sydney town.
Marsh Road was constructed by Mr. Robert McRae between 1924 and 1926.
Prior to the construction of Marsh Road there were other sandy and swampy tracks in the vicinity from Salt Ash to Bobs Farm and further on to Anna Bay and Nelson Bay.
This led to the ‘new’ road
CONTINUED Page 12
by son Norman. Fred recalled
Marsh
His longevity he put down to hard work and a tot of rum every night before retiring.
Son
for the beautiful tomatoes that he grew and would sell from his property. He would also box his tomato plants and sell those to
public.
q Fred's Chevy truck, 1941.
q The Dalton family organised their own road repairs.
q Marsh Road was nothing more than a bush track.
Brown Snakes spoil Gropers rugby party
By Chris KARAS
IT was a case of déjà vu for Nelson Bay Rugby Club when they locked horns with Cooks Hill Brown Snakes in Hunter Suburban Men's Rugby action at Empire Park at Bar Beach.
Lining up for their first match of the season following an opening round bye, the Gropers suffered a heartbreaking 18-15 loss to their rivals after a torrid tussle.
The Brown Snakes turned the clock back 12 months when they edged out the Gropers in the corresponding fixture last season – using a blueprint of spoiling defence to chalk up back-to-back wins in the men's first grade competition.
First half tries by half back Kade Redmond and skilful utility back Brayden McMaster, plus a conversion and penalty goal by winger Ryan Marshall, gave Nelson Bay a handy 15-nil lead.
But in a turning point, stalwart hooker Ross Buchan was given his marching orders with a yellow card just before the half time break –leaving the Gropers a player down for the last five minutes of the opening stanza and first five of the second half.
Cooks Hill capitalised immediately with elusive winger Kurtley Golden crossing for a try double and fly half Jayden KitchenerWaters booting a conversion as Nelson Bay led 15-12 at the half-time interval.
The second period developed into a gripping tussle with Kitchener-Waters scoring the only points with two penalty goals under extreme pressure to secure a hard fought win.
Nelson Bay were best served by powerhouse second rower Lewis Affleck, play maker Redmond and fullback Sam Mitchell.
Cooks Hill women's rugby team posted a narrow 10-5 victory over Nelson Bay to remain undefeated after two rounds.
Talented fullback Hannah Bourne and centre Gab Cavalieri nabbed tries for the Brown Snakes with halfback Tash Harris grabbing the lone five pointer for the Gropers.
Hawks sink Power in AFL thriller
Golden girl Audrey Russell crowned national race walking champion
FROM Page 24
Audrey also helped her NSW team win the Trevor Billingham Trophy for the highest Under 13s pointscore, with a tally of 778 – 25 points clear of runners-up Queensland (753).
The Hunter Valley Grammar School student came into the Adelaide meet in top form after collecting a bronze medal at the National Athletics Championships in Perth.
Competing up an age group in the Girls 14yrs 3000m walk, a determined Audrey finished third in a strong field to demonstrate her potential and class.
Raymond Terrace Athletics Club secretary Deidre Hall told News Of
The Area that Audrey’s gold medal success at the Little Athletics National titles was a “special achievement.”
“We are all proud of her performances and believe she has a bright future in athletics,” said Deidre, who has chalked up 35 years of sterling service with the Raymond Terrace club.
A dual NSW representative and talented cross country runner, Audrey will now focus on her second sporting love – soccer.
The versatile schoolgirl currently plays for Newcastle Olympic football team in the Under 13s Youth Premier League.
She has also been a member of the Hunter Academy of Sport for triathlon this season.
By Chris KARAS
THEY didn’t come away with valuable competition points but Port Stephens Power’s fledgling AFL senior men's team can take a bow after figuring in a third round thriller against Cardiff Hawks thirds in Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Plate action at Pasterfield Sports Complex.
Cardiff edged out the Power 11.9 (75) to 11.6 (72) in a crackerjack contest to claim their first win of the season and to move into the top six.
Strong performances from Hawks’ mainstays Sam Kenny, Max Kocon, Matt Dippolito, Andrew Risby,
Zac Moore and Jamie Gilkes paved the way for a pulsating victory in a classic contest.
The Power were best served by durable ruck rover Reegan Connors, who booted six of his team’s 11 goals in a non-stop display, with support from Ben Frith and Riley Johnston.
Port Stephens men's coach Tony Merritt told News Of The Area that there were “plenty of positives” to come out of the three point loss.
“The boys gave it their all in an evenly matched game and produced a spirited performance with massive contributions from the entire squad,” he said.
“They continue to improve as a team and build some confidence.”
Port Stephens senior women's team suffered their
first loss of the season when they were humbled 76-8 by Cardiff Hawks in the
The Hawks booted 11 goals and 10 behinds in a rousing display led by Charlotte Day (four goals) with six pointers from Mattise Murray, Emily Treloar, Olivia Twyford, Anastasia Bachas, Kira Jones, Cheyenne Neu and Rebecca Voigt.
The lone goal scorer for the Power was Sacha Gratton. Despite being outgunned across the park, the Port Stephens lineup had a solid core of warriors in vice captain Sarah Masiero and Emma Chester, Chantal Giepmans, Bronwyn Singh, Shakira Jobson and Nicole Honeysett.
Bomboras gear up for big rugby league clash
By Chris KARAS
FINGAL Bay and Karuah Roos feature in a quality showdown this Saturday in the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League Men's C Grade competition at Fingal Bay Oval.
The Bomboras will host the third placed Roos in a fifth round fixture that should appeal to ardent supporters of both clubs in the early phase of the 2025 premiership series.
Karuah captain-coach
By Lee RANKIN
Daniel Evans has his squad in fine fettle with two victories against Maitland United (486) and Paterson River from their three matches to date.
The Roos suffered an opening round loss to Dudley Magpies 2820 at John Balcomb Oval and have turned in strong performances in recent weeks.
The club’s second round victory over Maitland United impressed keen judges with mercurial fullback Shaqueil Saunders, halfback Brandon Thompson and prop forward Nick John bagging doubles in the nine-try rout, and stalwart five-eighth Sam Croese booting six conversions.
After an opening round 38-8 loss to WallsendMaryland Tigers the Fingal Bay squad – under the guidance of coach Darren Coles - have discovered top form with a resounding 44-10 triumph over the Woodberry Warriors at Fingal Bay Oval.
Sharp centre Joshua Veleika and winger Mac
Nelson collected try doubles as the Bomboras produced a nine try spree with fullback Jayden Wilcock-Huxtable, hooker Dylan Jones and prop forward Cameron Scully also grabbing four pointers.
Fingal Bay number seven Bobby Baker and the capable Blaine O’Flaherty each potted two conversions as the hosts chalked up their first win of the season.
The much-anticipated fifth round fixture between the Bomboras and Roos will kick off on 10 May at 1pm.
q Nelson Bay Gropers flanker Jarrod Zuvela and centre Danny Arnfield in defensive mode against Cooks Hill Brown Snakes at Empire Park.
q Port Stephens Power has experienced mixed fortunes in the early rounds of the women's and men's competitions.
q Karuah Roos’ talented winger and Team of the Decade inductee Adam Crampton has chalked up 100 games for the club.
Black Diamond Plate Women's series.
SUDOKU
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
KITCHEN GLOW UP
SBS FOOD, 8.30pm
If you’ve ever cooked in someone else’s kitchen and found yourself opening every cupboard and drawer in search of something, this helpful design series will be music to your ears. Professional cook, designer and entrepreneur Ellen Marie Bennett (pictured) believes in making kitchens that are not only efficient and functional but beautiful, colourful rooms the whole family will want to enjoy. In tonight’s premiere, Bennett is in Glendale, California, at the home of parents Lisa and Richie, who need help with their crowded, chaotic kitchen.
FRIDAY, May 9
6.00 News. 9.00 News.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
SATURDAY
HOLIDAY
HOME MAKEOVER WITH RACHEL & RYAN
NBN, 7.30pm
Drafted into The Block in 2022 after another couple walked out, husband-and-wife duo Rachel and Ryan Carr (both pictured) quickly proved themselves, becoming frontrunners thanks to their classic yet contemporary style. Now parents of three young children, Rachel and Ryan are taking on another challenge –transforming a tired property on the south coast of New South Wales into their dream holiday home in just 14 weeks. They’re throwing all their own savings into the project and documenting the ambitious process in this new renovation series. The work begins tonight, as the couple demolish a garage and get cracking on the main suite.
MONDAY HAVE YOU BEEN PAYING ATTENTION?
TEN, 8.40pm They say time flies when you’re having fun – so it stands to reason that after 12 years on air, Have You Been Paying Attention?
gang are having a blast. Tonight, Australia’s favourite topical comedy quiz begins its 13th season testing funny folk about the news they may (or may not) have seen during the week. Quizmaster Tom Gleisner (pictured) returns, along with regular panellists Ed Kavalee and Sam Pang – the latter fresh off a successful first season of Sam Pang Tonight – to make light of the week’s headlines. Ahead of the return, Gleisner said: “I can’t wait to get back into the studio. For me, there’s no better way to spend a Monday night.” We couldn’t agree more.
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross explores a dreamy flower garden.
8.30 Sherwood. (Malv) Tensions rise in the community as news of the recent assassination attempt breaks.
9.30 To Be Advised.
10.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R) A satirical news program. 10.35 Big Boys. (MA15+l, R) 11.05 ABC Late News.
11.20 Mayfair Witches. (Malv, R)
12.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
ABC FAMILY (22)
7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Rise And Fall: The World Trade Center. (PGa, R) 9.05 Gloriavale: New Zealand’s Secret Cult. (Ma, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Atlantic Crossing. (Mav, R)
12.10 Between Two Worlds. (Mals, R)
2.00 The Head. (MA15+a, R)
3.55 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (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 with Nagi Maehashi.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates share insights and experiences to highlight living well.
9.30 MOVIE: The Dressmaker. (2015, Malsv, R) After a woman returns to her home town in the Australian outback, old rivalries are reignited. Kate Winslet, Judy Davis.
12.00 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)
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 10. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Brisbane Broncos.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the South Sydney Rabbitohs versus Brisbane Broncos match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Looper. (2012, MA15+dlv, R)
A hit man meets his future self. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis.
1.00 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (PGls, R) Celebrity guests include Timothée Chalamet. 9.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.15 The Inspired Unemployed: The List. (PGal, R) The boys hit the local market in India. 11.15 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Motorway Cops. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 Young Sheldon. Noon MOVIE: Pacific Rim. (2013, PG) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Basketball. Men’s Trans-Tasman Throwdown. Aust v NZ. 7.30 Basketball. Women’s Trans-Tasman Throwdown. Aust v NZ. 9.50 MOVIE: Hairspray. (2007,
WEDNESDAY,
May
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Tough Trains. (PGa, R) 11.00 Jewels Of The Alps: Italy’s Great Lakes. (PGa) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy!
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (M)
8.40 Mysteries Of Sink Holes. (PGa, R)
9.35 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 My Brilliant Friend. (Mal)
12.00 The Wall: Cover Your Tracks. (Malsv, R)
3.20 The Story Of Coffee. (R)
4.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.50 Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 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 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Clarkson’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire UK. (PG) 8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) 10.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) 11.00 St. Denis Medical. (Ma)
11.30 Born To Kill? (MA15+av, R)
12.30 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (PGs)
8.30 The Grand Tour. (MA15+l)
10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
11.00 9News Late.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.15 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R)
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
Elsbeth. (PGlv) Elsbeth is summoned to jury duty and lands on a murder trial, where she faces off with an unusually difficult judge. 9.40 NCIS: Origins. (Mv) Vera receives a call from a man
R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Kimberley. (R)
ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 11.55 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.30 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 8.20 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 10.00 Say It Loud. (2020, M, Italian) 11.50 Song To Song. (2017, M) 2.05pm Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 3.25 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 5.20 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 7.30 Winter’s Tale. (2014, M) 9.40 La La Land. (2016, M) 12.05am Juliet, Naked. (2018, M) 1.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 History’s Greatest Mysteries: The Hindenburg Disaster. (Maw, R)
8.20 Liberation: D-Day To Berlin: Hitler Strikes Back. (M) Hitler launches a surprise attack.
9.15 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mv) Sherlock assigns Amelia her first task.
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 Carmen Curlers. (Masv, R)
12.50 Pagan Peak. (Mas, R)
2.35 Incredible Homes. (R)
3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 Eurovision. (PG)
VICELAND (31)
2.30 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.00 News. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.05 Craig Charles: UFO Conspiracies. 6.00 Alone Denmark. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Keanu Reeves: Pop Messiah. 9.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 5. 1.35am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Super Maximum Retro Show. 1.30 Fanatics: The Deep End. 2.25 Insight. 3.25 News. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.25 Craig Charles: UFO Conspiracies. 6.20 Over The Black Dot. 6.50 Jeopardy! 7.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 6. 1.35am Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 7.55 Viva Las Vegas. (1964, PG) 9.30 Lara. (2019, PG, German) 11.20 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) 1.50pm The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 3.40 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 5.30 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 7.30 Indecent Proposal. (1993, M) 9.40 Purple Rain. (1984, M) 11.45 Late Programs.
Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency.
7MATE (64)
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Motor Racing. Indycar Series. Sonsio Grand Prix. H’lights. 10.05 Bewitched. 10.35 Jeannie. 11.05 Young Sheldon. 12.05pm MOVIE: Godzilla Vs. Kong. (2021, M) 2.15 Innovation Nation. 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: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001, M) 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Gage puts a sinister plan in motion.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) Hosted by Graeme Hall.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) The second set of semi-finalists set out to impress the judges and viewers at home.
10.30 The Amazing Race. (PG)
12.00 Raines. (Mahv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. Women’s State Of Origin. Game 2.
RAYMOND Terrace pocket rocket athlete Audrey Russell is the number one ranked race walker for her age in Australia.
The 12-year-old prodigy earned the tag when she clinched gold in the Girls Under 13yrs 1500m Race Walk at the recent Little Athletics National Championships in Adelaide.
All conquering Audrey was crowned national champion after producing a four second personal best time of 7:02.87 minutes to blitz her Queensland rival Isabella Welch (7:17.78) by a staggering 15 seconds.
bronze medallist Julia Baldy (7:21.70) was a further four seconds behind.
The boom race walker led from start to finish to cap a memorable season on the athletics track.
It was an outstanding accomplishment by the Raymond Terrace Athletics Centre junior, who also claimed gold in the 1500m Race Walk at the Little Athletics NSW State Championships at Sydney Olympic Park earlier this year.
