q David Hamilton’s Farr 40 Seeking Alpha was first in Division 1. Photo: Promocean Media.
Residents living in fear over burnout meets
FROM Page 1
mid-2023.
The gatherings generally occur late on Saturday evenings, and can feature around 40 cars.
“They turn up in large numbers, 30 or 40 or more,” said Paul Alexander, a North Arm Cove resident of three years.
“For a while there it was about every second week.”
Mr Alexander said residents are living in fear.
“A lot of the population here are quite elderly, and a lot of residents worry about their safety,” he said.
“A couple of residents have come home while they are doing burnout events and have been abused by the people there.”
Mr Alexander also expressed concern about the safety risks caused by rubber and metal debris.
“When they do the burnouts there are a lot of big clumps of rubber and steel left all over the road.
“They leave old tyres and wheels all across the road.
“In some instances there have been cars left burnt out.”
One North Arm Cove resident, who chose to remain anonymous due to
safety concerns, said a female visitor to her home had her passage blocked by a burnout gathering as she attempted to leave via the intersection at around 11:30pm.
“She called us soon after on her way home to say she had not been able to pass through immediately with cars and crowds at the intersection, many clearly loud and intoxicated,” she said.
“She felt very intimidated, persons surrounding her car while she was waiting for a clear path, not knowing what to do.
“Big and much older males were attempting to
talk to her through closed windows.
“Another individual smashed a glass bottle on the road nearby; she was very scared.”
Another pair of locals told NOTA the path to their home was blocked by a car having its wheels replaced in the middle of the intersection.
After eventually managing to extricate themselves from the intersection and the crowd, the couple allege they were followed away from the gathering by a large ute.
After a recent burnout event, North Arm Cove Community Association
President Bob Reid spent 40 minutes on a Sunday clearing debris from the intersection.
Your local voice in NSW Parliament
“There was burnout debris such as rubber strips and rubber/wire pieces all over the road, and fresh burnt rubber tyre marks,” Mr Reid said.
“Luckily I had some thick gloves in my car.
“Whilst I was doing this a lady from Carrington stopped and told me she recently got a flat tyre which she thought was from burnout wire.”
Mr Reid and the residents’ association are calling for MidCoast Council to take action at the site, particularly the installation of CCTV.
The Council maintains
q The impact of the regular burnout meets.
that installation of CCTV is not its responsibility in this case, given that illegal driving is a police matter.
“With respect to CCTV, Council has previously outlined its position, namely that the installation and responsibility for CCTV is not a matter for Council,” Council General Manager Adrian Panuccio told the group via email last month.
“That said, Council would be supportive of NSW Police if they opted to erect cameras at the location.
“Illegal driving is not something Council regulates or has the resources to manage.
“Despite not being a function of Council, installing CCTV to monitor this type of behaviour is simply not financially viable given that the behaviour may move elsewhere, leaving ratepayers potentially having to fund CCTV in other or future hotspots where illegal activity is being undertaken.”
Council will continue to monitor and respond to specific requests in relation to the clean-up of debris left on the roadway as part of its routine maintenance program.
Residents are advised to report any illegal behaviour to the police.
Authorised by Kate Washington MP, 26 William St, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324
q Debris collected by local residents from the road.
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
EDITOR
BUSINESS ADVERTISING
Tracey BENNETT 0484 263 558 tracey@newsofthearea.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS
Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone us: (02) 4981 8882 Mon, Tue, Wed or Fri
Phone line Open 9am -2pm
Smooth sailing for street party despite ‘dodgy’ weather
By Jacie WHITFIELD
THE Sail Port Stephens Street Party was a seafaring success despite inclement weather conditions and a smaller gathering of people than last year.
An ocean of bobbling blue balloons, a rainbow of twirling umbrellas, a throng of summery yellow hats, numerous crews of identically decked out sailors, and plumes of charcoal smoke, infused the fairy light
NELSON BAY RSL SUB-BRANCH
ANZAC DAY
FRIDAY 25 APRIL 2025
Nelson Bay RSL sub-Branch will host ANZAC Day as detailed below. All veterans and members of the public are invited to attend.
05:30
– Departs Bowling Club carpark 10:45
SERVICE at APEX PARK 12:00 LUNCHEON at WEST DIGGERS
Ticketed Event for the RSL NSW Members only ($20) and their guests ($25), children ($10) Uniformed Military personnel ($0), partners ($20), children ($10) TICKETS now on sale at
night sky and intersection of Stockton and Magnus streets
Revellers danced and sang along to the well-known repertoire of songs played by the “Love That Hat” band as the street food vendors offered a nibble of bite-sized tastings.
Corlette local Sue Oxborrow said, “it’s great to see the town buzzing despite the slightly dodgy weather”.
Town centre resident Helen Bailey, said how “fantastic it was to see Magnus Street car-free”, believing a permanent closure would encourage business.
The SlacnOff crew from Middle Harbour Yacht Club in Sydney, regaled in matching sailor’s suits and expressed their elation at holding second place despite “breaking their main halyard on the start line, jerry-rigging their torn jib, and being 10 minutes race late”.
Anna Bay residents Kaylene Turner and Merri Brady enjoyed the roadside people-watching and said, “we refuse to let the rain dampen our spirits or stop us locals from going out”.
q The SlacnOff crew celebrated their remarkable jerry rigging improvisations.
adorned
in Nelson Bay.
q The crew of Kookaburra remained in high spirits despite alluding to their beaching on Shag Rock.
q Pirate Maddox having a ‘yo ho ho’ of a time.
q Residents Kaylene Turner and Merri Brady soaking up the festive atmosphere.
q Reverse rain dancing allowed the band to play on and keep the party pumping.
Fire permit season ends
By Thomas O’KEEFE
OFFICIAL fire season has ended for most of NSW, including in Port Stephens.
Fire permits are no longer required for those in areas outside the Bush Fire Danger Period, however, there are some regions across the state where the danger period has been extended, meaning fire permits will still be required.
No matter the time of year, everyone must still
notify neighbours and local fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up, which is easily done via the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website.
The RFS stresses that grass fuel loads remain a concern, and fires can occur at any time of the year.
“Before lighting up, people should also check whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate and have sufficient equipment on hand to control and contain
the fire to their property,” RFS Superintendent Ugo Tolone explained.
“If fire services know about a planned burn, it can help prevent unnecessary responses from local firefighters when we know it is planned and controlled.”
This season, crews worked on more than 4100 bush and grass fires, which burnt through more than 61,000 hectares.
q RFS volunteers keeping control of the Pindimar blaze last year, which started with unpermitted pile burning.
In addition to bush and grass fires, RFS crews responded to more than 2800 motor vehicle accidents and nearly 700 structure fires.
“January was our busiest month, but thanks to rainfall in the New Year, the overall fire season was less severe than it could have been,” said Rob Rogers, Commissioner of the RFS.
“RFS members have also spent considerable time assisting interstate communities, with crews and aircraft deployed to assist with both fires and floods
q Big trucks, including the MidCoast Bulky, are always ready to move, but all fires should be valid and legal.
in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia.”
“Their dedication and selfless efforts have helped protect lives and property across the country, and I thank every member for their commitment to Australian communities.
“I remind all landholders and residents that now is the time to make sure your property is prepared, your family has a bush fire survival plan, and you know exactly what you will do if threatened by fire.”
Locally, the PindimarTea Gardens RFS Brigade has noted a relatively quieter fire season, but the volunteers continue to train and hone their skills, as well as welcoming new member Nate.
The NSW RFS roundly urges all residents to review and update their Bush Fire Survival Plans, and not to take recently milder conditions as a reason to become complacent about the threat of bush fires.
New intake of paramedics and control staff for NSW Ambulance
TWENTY new paramedic interns have arrived in the Hunter ambulance zone to begin the on-road portion of their 12-month internships.
Across the state, NSW Ambulance has welcomed 157 new paramedic interns and 17 trainee emergency medical call takers, after they were officially inducted into the service at a ceremony.
These new recruits were part of the largest induction held by NSW Ambulance so far this year and started in their new roles over the weekend.
The emergency medical call takers have been posted to the Sydney and Northern (Newcastle) control centres.
Minister for Health Ryan Park congratulated the new recruits for their “dedication, compassion and desire to make a difference in their communities”.
“Every call the new paramedic interns and emergency medical call takers respond to is an opportunity to make a difference and help those in our community in their most vulnerable moments.
“NSW will benefit from the clinical skills and expertise these new recruits bring to the healthcare workforce.”
Labor gains: polling shows majority government in sight
MAJORITY government could be within reach for Anthony Albanese as Labor opens up its lead over the coalition after week one of the federal election campaign.
With just weeks until Australians take to the ballot boxes, Labor is leading the coalition 52 to 48 percent on a two-party-preferred basis, the latest Newspoll shows.
The result is a percentage point improvement for Labor since the previous Newspoll was published on 30 March.
The last time Labor led the coalition 52 percent to 48 in Newspoll on a twoparty preferred basis was May 2024.
The latest poll, published by The Australian on Sunday evening, was mostly conducted before US President Donald Trump's tariff announcement on Thursday.
Multiple polls show a surge in support for the government over the coalition as party leaders zip across the nation to court voters ahead of the May 3 election.
A Redbridge and Accent Research poll for News Corp, conducted from a sample of 1006 people from 28 March to 1 April, also showed Labor ahead 52 to 48 on a two-partypreferred basis.
The first YouGov poll of the election
campaign also had Labor ahead - 51 percent to 49 on a two-party preferred basis.
The YouGov poll of 1622 people was conducted between 28 March and 3 April, with a margin of error of 3.3 percent.
Newspoll showed Labor's primary vote remained unchanged at 33 per cent since the previous poll, while
the coalition's fell one point to 36 percent.
The Greens' primary vote was steady at 12 percent, One Nation was up one at seven percent and all others, including independents, were steady on 12 percent.
The coalition has lost ground since January, when it polled 39 percent of the primary vote - an eight-point
lead over Labor (31 percent). Mr Albanese (48 percent) dropped a point but retained his lead over Opposition Leader Peter Dutton (40 percent) as preferred prime minister.
The Newspoll interviewed 1250 voters throughout Australia online between 31 March and Friday.
q Peter Dutton's coalition is losing ground to Anthony Albanese's Labor government, polling shows. Photo: Richard Wainwright/AAP PHOTOS.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
WE GOT the kids stuff out of the way last week, so this batch of releases is for the grown-up and the off-beat.
For those parents and teenagers who are feeling a little weary of cutesy, child friendly, magical entertainment, Alex Scharfman’s Death of a Unicorn grinds a healthy dose of cynicism into your fantasy.
This horror-tinged satire stars Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega as a father and daughter who accidentally hit a unicorn with their car while on the way to schmoose with a wealthy family.
When the hosts - played by Richard E. Grant and Tea Leoni - see dollar signs after discovering the mystical beast and insist on having it studied, the creature's sire comes looking for it, and is decidedly not cute, friendly or merciful.
Clearly intending to comment on classism, wealth inequality, environmentalism, capitalism etc., the film has placed itself into the hands of a solid, engaging and funny group of actors.
However, while the first-time director is skillful at crafting witty dialogue, staging tense and graphic kills, and has come up with a wicked design for the monster, he doesn’t quite manage to weave these elements together satisfactorily.
The Amateur is a “new”
twist on the espionage/ revenge thriller, coming from seasoned British TV director James Hawes, from a screenplay by Ken Nolan (Black Hawk Down) and starring Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody), Lawrence Fishburne and Rachel Brosnahan.
Malek plays a mildmannered CIA cryptographer who demands to be resourced as a field operative in order to seek revenge when his wife is killed in a terror attack.
Though the agency responds with scepticism, they become concerned when he demonstrates that his existing skills have made him more than inventive enough to locate and punish the villains.
Tagged as a “thinking man’s action film”, there are enough interesting contributors to make this worth checking out at least
once, though possibly not enough to make this worth repeat viewings.
The time has come once again for this generation’s adaptation of the literary classic The Count of Monte Cristo, and this time it’s coming from the tale's native France.
The story of a Napoleonera sailor falsely accused of treason, imprisoned in isolation for years only to find escape along with a limitless fortune to enact his revenge, is one of the most famous historical adventures ever written.
This epic production has spared no expense to make an authentic looking, thrilling, moving and exciting film with a cast of great actors.
This is the foreign film to check off your list this year.
A heart-wrenching drama that will remain in the conversation for years
to come, Small Things Like These is an international production adapting a 2021 novel by Claire Keegan inspired by the stories of Ireland's Magdalene Laundries.
Cillian Murphy stars in a knockout performance as a hard-working family man who discovers a young, pregnant girl who has seemingly been mistreated by the convent supposed to be caring for her.
The film explores the pressures of working-class Irish families, the social intimidation wielded by religious institutions and how noble ideas are corrupted by human greed and frailty.
Also starring Emily Watson, Eileen Walsh and Michelle Fairly, this is a challenging film but one well worth making the time for.
As it turns out, there is one more release for the whole family, and coming at a most
appropriate time of the year.
King of Kings is the first major animated feature film based on the Bible since Prince of Egypt in 1998.
The hook to this retelling of the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, is that it is a story told by the legendary Charles Dickens to his young son, Walter.
Dickens and his boy follow in the footsteps of Jesus through his most notable moments, at times so immersed in the account that they can almost interact with the Son of Man himself.
Boasting a jaw-dropping lineup of voice talent including Oscar Isaac as Jesus, Kenneth Branagh as Dickens, Pierce Brosnan, Uma Thurman, Mark Hamil, Forest Whittaker and Sir Ben Kingsley, this might make for an uplifting church event in the coming weeks.
Scams and card fraud on the rise
OVER two million Australians experienced card fraud and 675,000 responded to a scam in 2023-24, according to new results from the Personal Fraud Survey (PFS) released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
William Milne, ABS head of crime statistics, said, “We found that 9.9 percent of Australians aged 15 years
and over were victims of card fraud in 2023-24.
“This is up from 8.7 percent in the previous year.”
The survey collects details about the most recent incident of card fraud.
“We found 72 percent of card fraud victims were fully reimbursed by their card issuer,” Mr Milne said.
“Collectively, the net
loss to all victims after any reimbursements were paid out was $477 million.”
The number of Australians responding to scams has also been on the rise.
“We found that 3.1 percent of people were victims of scams in 2023-24, up from 2.5 percent in the previous year.
“Buying or selling scams, which includes things like false billing and online shopping scams, were the most common, experienced by about 308,000 Australians.
“This was up from the 200,000 victims in the previous financial year,” said Mr Milne.
The survey found 71
percent of scam victims notified (or were notified by) an authority about the incident, most commonly a bank or financial institution (54 percent).
There was also a rise to 14 percent in the reporting of scams to a social media or selling site, up from 9.7 percent in 2022-23.
The Personal Fraud
Survey covers experiences of card fraud, identity theft, online impersonation and selected scam types. It includes prevalence rates and socio-demographic characteristics of victims. It also includes details about the most recent incident of card fraud and identity theft, and the most serious incident of scams.
Loneliness triples women's risk of dying early: study
By Maeve BANNISTER, AAP
WOMEN who feel lonely over an extended period are three times more likely to die early than those who don't.
Research by the University of Sydney has for the first time identified a causal link between loneliness and early death among middle-aged Australian women.
The research analysed data from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health, which looks at factors contributing to the health of more than 57,000
women.
Researchers looked at women aged between 48 and 55 and tracked their health over 15 years.
Women who did not report loneliness in the 15year period had a five per cent risk of dying.
But for women who reported feeling lonely throughout the study period, their risk of death tripled to 15 percent.
Loneliness has been linked to adverse health including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and the development of dementia.
"Loneliness is a common experience worldwideas many as one in three Australian adults feeling lonely during their lives," senior report author Melody Ding said.
"But when feeling lonely becomes chronic or persists long-term, it may impact a person's health," she said.
There is no equivalent longitudinal data looking at the long-term health of men, but Professor Ding said midlife was a period of transition that might affect women more adversely than men.
"In middle age, women
are more likely to be the primary caregivers for both young children and elderly parents, as well as going through major physical, psychological and social changes in status such as menopause, retirement and children moving away from home," she said.
"All of which may affect how socially connected a woman feels."
Researchers are calling for loneliness to be a risk factor screened by clinicians, in the same way people are screened for high blood pressure and cholesterol.
"The research is clear
that loneliness not only correlates with existing health problems but causes them," lead author Neta HaGani said.
"We also need to raise the public awareness of loneliness to demystify and destigmatise loneliness," Dr HaGani said.
q Research has found a causal link between loneliness and early death among middle-aged women. Photo: Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS.
Visit
to
up for a
digital subscription to one / all of our newspapers. You will be sent an email when each of the printed editions are available to be read online.
AUTUMN SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN Gardens reopen after storm
JUST in time for the school holidays, the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens have reopened after suffering significant damage during storms on 15 January.
Hundreds of trees were knocked down throughout the 125 hectare site and the Gardens have been closed to the public since then.
“It was truly heartbreaking,” said Ken Page, chairperson of the Heatherbrae-based gardens.
“We arrived at our front gate the morning after the storm and had to call in
some of our volunteers to bring their chainsaws from home to cut our way in.
“There were four 30 metre gum trees across our picnic area, our children’s playhouse was completely smashed and there was not even one of our walking paths not blocked by fallen trees.
“From the front gate right through to the back of the property, there were trees down everywhere.”
The Gardens are run entirely by volunteers, receive no ongoing
government funding and rely on gate takings and donations to operate.
The sheer size of the clean-up job at hand for volunteers was quickly overwhelming, so the Gardens asked the community for help clearing trees and debris.
Emergency services groups such as the SES and RFS also lent a hand and their equipment.
Despite the assistance, hanging branches in trees were a major problem, particularly due to the cost
of arborist services.
“Many of our volunteers were here for the aftermath of the Pasha Bulka storm in 2007, and they say that this storm has caused far more damage,” said Mr Page.
“But they all rolled up their sleeves and got on with the job of restoring what they could.
“They are an awesome bunch of people and it shows that these Botanic Gardens are built with love and the community needs to come together now to support that effort.”
New simulator at Fighter World
LOOKING for a new experience this school holidays?
Other than the real thing, this is the closest you may ever get to being a Top Gun fighter pilot.
Applied Virtual Simulation (AVS) Newcastle, renowned for cuttingedge defence simulation technology and Winwing have partnered with Fighter World to create one of Australia’s most immersive virtual reality (VR) motion simulators, based on the iconic F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft.
From the moment you slide into the fully equipped Hornet cockpit you’ll be immersed in the high-tech world of military aviation, but don’t worry, there’s an experienced operator who’ll tailor each session to your age and ability.
It won’t be long before you loop, barrel roll and dive just like a pro before taking on the enemy in a dogfight.
In fact, you’ll be so immersed, you’ll forget you’re in a simulator.
There are two experiences available for you to enjoy.
The Static Flight Simulator suitable for ages seven-plus and the AVSxFW motion flight simulator for ages twelve-plus. With prices starting at just $20 for fifteen minutes you’re in for the ride of your life!
Bookings are essential.
Phone Fighter World now on 02 4965 1810 and secure your session before they’re sold out.
q The Gardens are back open after suffering storm damage.
q Two simulator experiences are available for you to enjoy at Fighter World.
AUTUMN SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN
Your family-friendly holiday bub
THIS school holidays, Hawks Nest Golf Club (HNGC) is the place to be for fun and fantastic family experiences.
Whether you're a local or visiting from across the bay, HNGC is bringing the community together with an exciting line-up of events designed to keep kids active and parents relaxed.
“For budding golfers, our Junior Golf Clinics are teeing off again - catering to kids aged aged to 17 years,” the HNGC team said.
“Whether your child is picking up a club for the first time or sharpening their skills, these clinics are
a great way to learn in a fun, supportive environment.”
And if golf isn’t their thing?
HNGC has got the fun covered with two free Family Music Bingo nights for the whole family and two epic Kids Discos to get them dancing and smiling all night long.
Over the Easter long weekend, the clubhouse comes alive with live music and the much-loved Easter raffles - a Surf and Turf Mega Raffle on Good Friday and Easter Hampers up for grabs on Sunday, raising funds for the Hawks Junior Footy Club.
q Grab a board and carve, slide, and race down the slopes. Photo: Guy Dixon.
It’s the perfect excuse to settle in, grab a cold drink, and enjoy the festivities.
“Getting here is part of the fun - hop aboard the original Tea Gardens Ferry from Nelson Bay, soak up the scenery, and step off into a full day of familyfriendly adventure,” the team suggests.
“Play a round of golf, let the kids join in the action, and settle in for a yummy lunch or dinner at Sando’s Café & Restaurant.
“At HNGC, we’re proud to be more than just a golf course - we’re a place where families come together,
memories are made, and the community spirit shines.
“These school holidays, come and see what makes
Hawks Nest Golf Club the heart of the holiday season.” For all event dates and details, visit www.
Award-winning 4WD adventures
LOOKING for an unforgettable adventure?
4WD Tour R Us in Anna Bay delivers thrills, breathtaking landscapes, and non-stop fun and adventure.
Proud recipients of the silver award for both the Major Tourist Attraction and Tour and Transport Operator at the prestigious 2024 NSW Tourism Awards, they offer
outstanding experiences on the spectacular Stockton Sand Dunes - the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere.
“Hop aboard our custombuilt 4WD buses and journey deep into the towering 40–50m dunes, stretching 32km along the coast,” the team said.
“Then, grab a board and carve, slide, and race down
the slopes with unlimited sandboarding fun.
“Whether you're a first-timer or thrill-seeker, our expert team ensures maximum excitement and safety.
“Perfect for families, adventurers, and explorers of all ages, this award-winning experience will leave you wanting more.
“Book your 4WD adventure today and discover why we're among NSW’s best.”
q HNGC Head Coach Glen Haynes with a school holiday golf camp.
AUTUMN SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN
Big savings and league bowling opportunities
MONEY-SAVING holiday deals are in full swing at Raymond Terrace StrikeZone tenpin bowl, as are opportunities to join a regular money league or even to create one just for your particular group.
One of the centre’s newest leagues has been developed specifically for housewives - the 10am Monday Galaxy League.
Offering three games for a very affordable $20, it has been conceived as a fun way to get fit and make new friends.
As a handicap league, beginners get plenty of headstart and even access to free coaching
Strikezone owner Neville Marchbank said that while the league is new and still small, it is proving popular.
“We encourage the group to make a morning of it,” he said.
“After bowls, relax and stay for a chat with coffee and a snack from our café.”
As one enthusiastic mum said: “It’s cheaper and less strenuous than a gym session
yet it is just as beneficial.”
Bowling is an anaerobic exercise that burns calories while working tendons, ligaments and muscles to promote weight loss and builds fitness.
The bowl is also keen to encourage groups that want to develop their own leagues.
To this end it has sent invitations to all Over 55’s villages in the area.
“Groups creating their own regular weekly competition is a fast growing trend in the industry,” Neville said.
Back in the 1960s, the Mayfield bowl hosted a Monday night businesses league.
Teams from shops and offices throughout the suburb competed, building friendships and thus strengthening the chamber of commerce.
The beauty of tenpin is that anyone can compete regardless of age, even if they
A uniquely Birubi experience
IF you’re looking for something really unique and memorable to do in Port Stephens, how about camel riding along beautiful Birubi Beach at Anna Bay?
Join Oakfield Ranch Camel Rides for a relaxing ride aboard a camel; they offer
q Experience the stunning Birubi Beach aboard a camel.
short 20 minute rides plus one hour rides on Saturdays.
“Watch the sunset over the majestic sand dunes of Stockton Bight as you ride by sunset on Friday or Saturday evenings - experience an ‘out of desert’ experience riding a camel,” said the Oakfield Ranch team.
“Camels are called ‘the
have never played the sport before.
It’s easy to learn and a handicap system means you are competitive from day one.
For anyone looking to join an existing league, StrikeZone has singles, pairs and triples leagues.
There are day leagues as well as evening ones.
There are even children’s leagues and some for people with disabilities.
In the meantime, take the whole tribe along while holiday specials are on offer.
These include $6 games from 9-10am each morning and reduced prices
ships of the desert’ as they carry loads across the deserts in Asia, Africa and in the past, here in Outback Australia.
“Enjoy making friends with your camel as you marvel at the stunning scenery.
throughout the day. $6 games all day on Sunday are a surefire hit, but you will need to book.
On Friday and Saturday nights a minimum of three people is required per lane to access three hour sessions of unlimited bowling for just $18.95 per head. Due to the bowl’s recent expansion, a bigger arcade games area has become a holiday attraction in its own right, particularly following the launch of Arcade Games cards that are loaded with extra value and amass points to be redeemed in the bowl’s prize shop.
“This unique experience is sure to be a favourite amongst the whole family and a memorable part of your trip.” Visit www.oakfieldranch. com.au for more information and FAQs.
q Plenty of fun beyond the lanes at Raymond Terrace StrikeZone.
AUTUMN SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN
Keep learning at the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
THE Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is a partnership between Port Stephens Council and Port Stephens Koala Hospital, a volunteer group that aims to provide the world best practice standards of care to sick, injured and orphaned koalas to give them the best opportunity to be returned to the wild.
The Koala Sanctuary is a new opportunity to directly contribute to the preservation of local koalas in Port Stephens.
Day visitors to the sanctuary enjoy unique experiences with koalas in a natural and idyllic bushland setting.
Tailored education
sessions are offered from local guides on koala care, rehabilitation and eventual return back to the wild.
These School Holidays the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is opened daily from 9am to 5pm (last entry at 4pm) and includes the following activities and features:
Explore the Sanctuary SKYwalk and viewing platform
The Sanctuary SKYwalk and viewing platform is a 225 metre in length elevated pathway and viewing platform, offering a unique ‘tree top’ perspective into the koala’s natural habitat, a perfect photo opportunity
and educational experience.
Visit the Port Stephens Koala Hospital
Peer through the large brand new Koala Viewing window that allows visitors to look into the clinical services area of the Koala Hospital to observe non-invasive treatments of koalas in care.
*Subject to clinic times.
Grab a bite at Fat Possum Café
Offers an extensive range of ‘grab and go’ eats and treats, coffees as well as offering a huge range of quality souvenirs and gifts, a lasting memento of your visit.
School Holiday Activities
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Scavenger Hunt
Can you solve the mystery phrase of the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary’s Scavenger Hunt?
Want to be included in our School Holiday feature?
Join us on beautiful Birubi Beach for a relaxing camel ride. Walk in any time between 10:00am and 3:30pm. Our 20 minute day rides depart approximately every half hour.
Adults $30 Children (under 16’s)
Included within the admission price while you explore the Sanctuary grounds, keep your eyes open to find the answers to each of the Scavenger Hunt’s questions to solve the mystery phrase.
Educational Sanctuary Talks
These School Holiday visitors can enjoy Koala
Informational Talks hosted by the Education Coordinator from the Port Stephens Koala Hospital.
These informative talks will include interesting facts about these unique Australian marsupials, the main threats the koala population faces and how we can help secure a future for wild koalas.
Each talk will commence at 11.30am and concludes
Breakfast Menu available
around 12:15pm on the following dates:
• Saturday, 12 April
• Monday, 14 April
• Thursday, 17 April
• Saturday, 19 April (Easter Saturday)
• Monday, 21 April (Easter Monday)
• Thursday, 24 April
• Saturday, 26 April
q These School Holidays the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is open daily from 9am to 5pm (last entry at 4pm). Photo: Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.
Cruises board at Lemon Tree Passage, Taylors Beach & Karuah
• Less than 100m from the water’s edge and under 200m to the beach, offering an unbeatable coastal lifestyle.
• Enjoy breathtaking ocean views
• Located in a tightly held, small beachside community
• A near-new home, thoughtfully designed for modern living.
• Featuring high-quality appliances throughout.
• Designed for style and practicality, with living areas on both floors.
• High ceilings enhance the sense of space and light.
• Outdoor entertaining areas on both levels.
• Low-maintenance yard designed for easy care.
• The generously proportioned bedrooms provide comfort and space for residents and guests alike.
• A beachside dream; a rare opportunity to secure a freestanding home in a picturesque location.
•
•
•
•
or rental income
• Elevated block with private, landscaped gardens and a fully fenced backyard
• Prime location just 500m from the water, shops, and transport
Exceptional waterfront
Don’t
Contact
Stinker’s History: The Boyd family of Lemon Tree
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
JOHN Boyd migrated from England as a roof slater in 1911, disembarking in Sydney with wife Ellen and two children Reg and Wilf.
John worked around the city slating the roof at the Randwick Racecourse and churches in the Parramatta district. Seeking a new beginning John shifted the family to Orange Grove (between Salt Ash and Lemon Tree Passage), where they moved into a large boarding house, then into a slab hut where they were caretakers of a dairy farm and 78 orange trees.
In 1915 the family moved to Lemon Tree where they market gardened, fished and farmed oysters.
The family continued to grow with the addition of John, Jean, Cecil, Norm, Eva and Doris.
As their father became ill and had difficulty working, Cec and his brothers market gardened, farmed the oysters and netted the creek.
At the time their produce was ferried by Korsmans to Salt Ash and then to Newcastle market.
Two ferries ran from Salt Ash to Nelson Bay as there was no road access.
The family lived mainly off the land, all working just to keep a good table.
Many a time the boys would take their dogs and hunt wallabies for meat.
They would also shoot
parrots when they flocked in the gum blossom.
Wild ducks also graced the table.
Fish were in great abundance, even the family dog would catch fish that had been caught in the creek’s weeds at low tide.
Sons Cec and Norm cannot remember any of the eight children ever visiting a doctor as the family simply toughed it out if they became ill.
A dentist did come occasionally via ferry from Nelson Bay and Cec can well
remember the time that he suffered severe toothache.
Cec was rowed out to the ferry by his brother for an extraction on the moving vessel.
Teeth were pulled for 1/- and Cec was dropped off on the shore at Lemon Tree, from where he had to walk back home, through the mud and mangroves, with a throbbing jaw.
The boys eventually bought their own leases around the Port where they were well known and respected for their honesty and hard work.
Cec had leases at Bundabah, Pindimar,
Salamander and some in Tilligerry Creek.
His first shipment of his own oysters was on 3 October 1950; 1 bag £7.10.0 to E. Lawrence, Sydney.
Total earnings in 1953-54 amounted to £837.10.0
After a day’s work it was time to relax and listen to the crackling radio, particularly when Bradman was batting.
The oystermen made their own entertainment by playing cards or holding dances in the boat sheds all around the inner harbour.
The high and low tides controlled not only their work schedule but also when to organise dances.
High water lapping through the floorboards of the shed would bring the dancing to an early close.
To play cricket Cec had to row to Bob’s Farm wharf and struggle through the mangroves and sand to Anna
Bay.
After working for his father, son Cec worked for Denzil Crawford at Lemon Tree (1940-50).
In 1950 Cec began shipping his own oysters selling his first bag to E. Lawrence of Camperdown for £7.10.0.
Brother Norm was brought into a partnership with Cec and the pair worked Salamander, Bundabah, Pindimar, Bull Island and upper Tilligerry Creek.
Cec purchased a lease from D Rooke in 1957 for $25. In 1967 he sold out to Hans Mersma.
The brothers Cec and Norm Boyd shared their entire lifetime through the hard times and the good times with their respective wives Olive and Eva and families in Lemon Tree Passage, a place they loved and called home.
Stinker’s History: The tragedies of a light keeper
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
IT is apparent that hardship and tragedy, particularly in the early years, were part of the lives of light keepers and their families.
Very few keepers that I researched escaped without some degree of emotional trauma, major accident or family dilemma.
David Robert William Gow suffered more than his share of hardship and personal sadness as reported by his granddaughter, Helen
Hemmons.
Before becoming a lighthouse keeper David was an engineer on the Presbyterian Missionary vessel Dayspring 111.
Life's miseries began for David when the vessel struck an uncharted reef off New Caledonia on 16 October 1896.
Two lifeboats were adrift for many weeks at sea before David arrived home in November 1896, much to the joy of wife Sarah who had given him up for lost.
David and Sarah's second child was born on the day of David's return.
After this life changing episode David searched for a more stable job and commenced his duties as a Trainee Light Keeper at Nobbys Newcastle the following year.
Shortly after his appointment to Seal Rocks light in 1903, 18 month old daughter Sarah died from diarrhoea and convulsions
David took up the position of Principal Keeper at the
Outer Light, Point Stephens in August 1907 where tragedy struck again, with the death of second child Robert from Spinal Meningitis on board the S S Hawke sailing to Newcastle for medical treatment.
In 1910 David took up the position of Principal Keeper
on South Solitary, where again misfortune struck with the death of his eldest child, Selina Lydia, from typhoid/enteric fever and haemorrhage perforation.
Unable to be buried on the island, owing to the shallowness of the soil, Lydia was placed in a bathtub and
interred in concrete.
Lydia was finally buried at Sandgate Cemetery (Newcastle) on 25/11/1912. Sandgate Cemetery put a probe down into the grave to verify that concrete had been used.
The finding was verified.
q Apart from fishing and oystering the Boyds were caretakers of a dairy farm and seventy eight orange trees. John and Ellen with their children (L-R) Jean, Cec, Eva, Jack, little Doris and Norm in the early 1930s.
q Jess Boyd (nee Cromarty), Wilf Boyd, Unknown and Cec Boyd in 1930. Oystermen had very little time to socialise.
q The Gow family suffered more than their share of tragedy. Wife Sarah with the children.
RSL NSW seeks election commitments
THE state’s largest exservice organisation is seeking an assurance from all candidates in the lead up to the federal election that veteran health and wellbeing will remain a top national priority moving forward.
The Returned and Services League NSW (RSL NSW) is calling on all sides of politics to commit to implementing in full the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s recommendations, which seek to improve health and wellbeing outcomes
for serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel.
The League also wants to see sustained investment in the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) to ensure it can appropriately service the Defence and veteran community; timely access to essential healthcare; greater access to fee-free advocates; and a ‘People First’ approach to Australia’s Defence capability with increased funding to respond to current and future challenges in an increasingly uncertain
geopolitical environment.
RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said cross-party support is needed to drive the “long-overdue cultural and systemic reform” required to improve the lives of veterans and their families.
“The men and women of our navy, army and air force, past and present, have made unique sacrifices in service of our nation and deserve to be looked after throughout their military and post-military life,” Mr Bainbridge said.
“The Royal Commission has already led to significant
Calls for hemp reform
A SENATE hopeful is calling for cannabis reform to unlock Australia’s “hemp potential” ahead of the 2025 Federal Election.
“Australia has the opportunity to become a world leader in industrial hemp production, but outdated and inconsistent cannabis laws are holding the industry back,” said Senate candidate Miles Hunt of the Legalise Cannabis Party.
“Hemp is one of the most sustainable, versatile, and valuable crops on the planet.
“It has the potential to revolutionise Australian agriculture, create jobs, and drive economic growth - yet our outdated laws and excessive red tape are strangling the industry before it can even take off,” said Mr Hunt, a lawyer and author based on the Mid North Coast.
Hemp, which contains
q Senate candidate Miles Hunt is the co-founder of the drug harm minimisation charity, Unharm.
Are
positive change, including a streamlining of veterans’ compensation and rehabilitation laws; the elimination of the backlog of unprocessed DVA claims; and progress towards standing up an independent oversight body to monitor reforms –but there is still a lot more work to be done and it’s imperative that all sides of politics work together to ensure the recommendations of this landmark inquiry are implemented in full.
“The health and wellbeing of veterans, and their families,
must remain a keen focus for the next Government but ultimately, it’s up to every MP and senator to hold Government to account and ensure the issue of veteran suicide doesn’t drop off the radar.
“Too many lives have already been lost,” he said.
Mr Bainbridge said several key recommendations should be acted on immediately, including the establishment of a new agency within DVA dedicated to veteran wellbeing; an appropriately funded and resourced
Farmers are required to navigate complex and inconsistent licensing
that.”
Mr Hunt said legalising cannabis would allow for a national approach to hemp regulation that will:
peak body for ex-service organisations; and ongoing funding for the network of Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs.
“These are just some of the key initiatives we believe will have the biggest impact in driving improved health and wellbeing outcomes for current and former servicemen and women –and we see day in and day out the positive impact our veterans’ and families’ hubs in Albury, the Hawkesbury, Hunter, Narrabeen, Nowra, the Riverina and the Tweed have through the delivery of much-needed grassroots services,” Mr Bainbridge said.
• Raise the legal THC threshold across all states and territories to align with international standards;
• Simplify and streamline licensing processes to make it easier for farmers to enter the industry;
• Educate banks and financial institutions to remove barriers to investment in hemp businesses;
• Actively promote Australian-grown hemp for food, textiles, and industrial use to reduce reliance on imports;
• Invest in processing plants to make it easier for hemp products to get from the farm to the consumer;
• Ensure the Federal Government actively supports hemp as a “super crop with the capacity to change the world”.
room experience? THE Port Stephens News Of The Area are always looking for more local people to help write about local issues and news affecting our area. You may not have any news room experience at all, but you are a competent writer and are passionate about the area and its people.
a freelance reporter or someone
Hockey juniors primed for Academy Games
By Chris KARAS
A SELECT band of talented Nelson Bay Hockey Club juniors will represent the Hunter region at this week’s “Your Local Club” Academy Games in Tamworth.
Rising prospects Makayla Kelly, Heidi Gibson, Matilda Gibson, Emily Kabayama and Ailee Kabayama, along with Cameron Watts and Charlie Williams, gained selection in the Hunter Academy of Sport Under 16s and Under 18s girls and boys hockey squads
for the prestigious three-day event that kicks off this Friday. They will be joined by Nelson Bay’s Alissa McLeod, the Hunter Academy of Sport manager, and Under 18s coach Hannah Baxter.
Some of the state’s most promising young athletes are primed to showcase their skills across eight sports: basketball, cycling (mountain biking), golf, hockey, netball, triathlon, softball and indoor volleyball during the games, which are to be held across various venues throughout
the Tamworth region from 11-13 April.
Northern Inland Academy of Sport will host this year’s event.
The Hunter Academy of Sport will be represented by 166 gifted athletes and 40 dedicated coaches and managers - all primed for success.
A roster of nearly 2000 players will participate in the annual competition, which brings together athletes, coaches, families and supporters from all 11
Power AFL men in historymaking mode
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens Power AFL Club is creating history in the AFL Central Coast Hunter Seniors competition.
For the first time since their formation in 1998, the Power is fielding a team in the Black Diamond Senior Men's Plate series.
After an intensive preseason recruitment drive, the Medowie-based club has assembled a 30-player squad.
It will be coached by former South Australian defender Tony Merritt, which is a huge boon for the teal, black and white.
An astute mentor with a wealth of experience, Merritt was a prominent defender in his heyday during stints with the North Albury Hoppers in the Ovens & Murray Football League and with Nelson Bay Marlins, Cardiff Hawks and Newcastle City Blues since relocating to the Hunter.
The Power opened their 2025 campaign with a home fixture last weekend against Muswellbrook Cats at Ferodale Oval.
Merritt was a driving force behind the Power senior women's team making the finals of the Black Diamond Plate competition in recent seasons, and said he is “looking forward” to his latest challenge.
“We’ve managed to bring together a competitive squad with a depth of talent for our historic venture,” he told News Of The Area.
regional academies of sport across NSW.
Hunter will compete against the Central Coast, Far West, Illawarra, North Coast, Northern Inland, South East, South West Sydney, Southern, Western Region, and Western Sydney.
The Academy Games are a celebration of talent, determination and community spirit and the culmination of the eight various sporting programs that operated during the season.
“They are a diverse bunch, a mix of former local juniors returning to the club, complemented by a group of athletes making their AFL debuts.”
Experienced ruck rover Joe Contin will bolster the Power squad in his role of player-assistant coach.
He brings a “wise head” to the group as does inspirational skipper Reegan Connors.
Merritt described the talented Connors as a “passionate leader” who leads by example both on and off the field.
“Reegan is a vital cog in our line-up and a major asset
Battle of the birds
By Thomas O’KEEFE
TEA Gardens Hawks hosted Raymond Terrace Magpies in a ‘Battle of the Birds’ at Myall Park on Saturday 5 April.
From the first kick, the Hawks’ pre-season work was evident, as James Sinclair’s boot sent the ball bouncing over the back line, untouched, setting up a line dropout and re-gaining possession immediately.
The Hawks’ initial attack
was strong, and was rewarded with the first try of the season to Brendan Nowland, and first conversion to James Sinclair.
The Hawks’ dominance was curtailed by a Magpies swoop down the left wing and into the goal zone, which served as the same avenue for the Magpies’ next two tries.
Many meaty tackles kept the ball around the midfield, until the Hawks’ Jyle Donovan found it and ran up most of the field to swoop in from the
Muree Golf Results
By Lee RANKIN
to the club,” he said.
The inaugural men's coach said the team was virtually “starting from scratch with a lot of refinement required”.
“The squad have worked extremely hard during the pre-season and are slowly coming together,” said Merritt.
“Six months ago many of the boys were like strangers to each other – now they are starting to form strong friendships and the chemistry is there.
“Our goal is to develop and build a culture for male players to stay at the club and have a crack at the senior level.
The Power have also recruited tough ruckman Jay Jeffery and four outstanding local juniors in forward pocket Riley Johnston, wingman Toby Ruhl, on-baller Noah McKimm and defender Alex Brady.
They return to the club after stints in the Under 17s with Nelson Bay and Lake Macquarie Dockers.
Merritt predicts a big season from AFL rookie
Sean Workman, a versatile sportsman who will line up in the back pocket at fullback.
“Sean is a tenacious customer and stood out in the trials with his strong defensive work and will to win,” Tony said.
“He comes from a rugby and cricket background and will be playing his first season of AFL.”
Port Stephens will host the Newcastle City Blues this Saturday at Ferodale Oval.
The Power’s historymaking 2025 men's squad features Reegan Connors (captain), Joe Contin (vice captain), Jay Jeffery, Alex Brady, Michael Dellar, Tim Drough, Ben Frith, Michael Fryer, Riley Johnston, Nathan Jones, Aaron Matthews, Noah McKimm, Neale Merrick, Ben Mills, Ayden Murray, Harry O’Connor, Joshua Pemberton, David Ralston, Ethan Robinson, Miles Rogan, Toby Ruhl, Glenn Ryan, Brenton Smith, Greg Smith, Peter Stanson, Xavier Vile and Sean Workman.
wing and return the favour.
The Hawks' third try came from some excellent passing, as the Hawks swept up and down the tryline, dodging tacklers out to left wing to score again.
But it was too wide for the conversion.
James Sinclair’s starting kicks proved very helpful, but the Magpies ratcheted up their defence, pushing the ball back, sometimes up to 90 metres, and penetrating for another try in the last few minutes of the first half.
The second half started with a spark for the Magpies, first scoring within two minutes, but one more Hawks’ try and conversion seemed to keep them in the game.
Inevitably, knockons led to perfunctory scrums, tediously arresting momentum for the spectators, but the tackles grew vicious as the body-onbody thumping led to sin-
Raymond Terrace seemed to pull away in the last 15 minutes with a series of unanswered tries and many easy conversions, cranking up the score over 50 points while the Hawks languished on 22.
Full-time score: Hawks 22 to Magpies 54.
Four tries to the Hawks: Brendan Nowland, Jyle Donovan (2) and Connor Tincknell.
Ten tries to the Magpies:
q Outstanding Nelson Bay hockey juniors Makayla Kelly, Cameron Watts, Heidi Gibson, Charlie Williams, Emily Kabayama and Ailee Kabayama with Hunter Academy Sport manager Alissa McLeod of Nelson Bay. Absent: Matilda Gibson and Under 18s coach Hannah Baxter.
q Port Stephens Power AFL Club’s history-making men's squad will compete in the 2025 Central Coast Hunter Black Diamond Senior Men's Plate competition.
binning.
Caden Taylor (2), Jake Atkins, Riley Hunter, Joshua Hannaford, Harper Such, Jackson Saville, and Nathanial Jarmain.
Conversion kicks: James Sinclair for the Hawks and Caden Taylor for the Magpies.
q The Ladies Tag teams cheer on the men’s team for their first official match of the season.
SUDOKU
For Sale
3 single beds EC 0427 945 195 F130325
PEGASUS porcelain tiles, neutral colour
30cm x 30cm (39 tiles) 60 x 30cm (36 tiles) 0421 721 832
2 seat leather sofa $100. Nelson Bay 0410 492 885 F050924
4 GARDEN chairs wooden folding with cushions $40 0468 546 109 or 4982 0063 F060325
78 old records x 2 boxes $99 ono. 0447 076 485
ADEFFO 6 speed hand mixer w/ beaters and hooks. As new in original box. $15 4981 7523
ADJUSTABLE Patient
Bed KS with Air Mattress 6 months old, cost $15k selling $2.5k, ph 0494 069 492
ANDRE Rieu DVDs x 22. $30. 0447 076 485 FDungog/Port271124
ANTIQUE Rocking cradle. Wooden attractive, and safe to use. Mattress included 90x70x66cm. $95 Ph: 4938 5923 F241024
AUDIE Murphey book ‘To Hell and Back’ 1956 edition best offer 4981 7523
BABY love car seat up to 4yrs old. Excellent cond $100 ph 0493 777 707
BAR table, great for pool or outdoor area. Tempered glass top, aluminium frame with white canvas, storage shelf below. $350 ono 0417 216 598
Medowie 1 yellow & red with cinnamon tail $100; 2x cinnamon with cinnamon tail $100 ea; 1 black $150 4 split $40 each. All cock birds, no hens. Ph Marie 0458 271 111
For Sale
FOOT Joy Golf
BRAND new set of 8 large white linen serviettes $10 ono 4981 7523
GENUINE leather boots made in Canada Excellent cond. Non-slip soles. $60. 4982 8787
MICROWAVE, 52 x 30cm, VGC, $35 49191121
CLOTHES iron $10 0493 777 707
MOBILITY Scooter CTM HS1500 preloved GC, brand new batteries fitted easy to transport $750. 0249198178.
HAIRDYE , beige blonde $5 each. 0493 777 707
HAIR curling wand $5 0493 777 707
NEW 31 dinner plates & 11 bowls. Buy all together or separate. $40. 0493 777 707 F171024
and wall unit, dark stain $20 each or both for $30. 0423 545 331 F050924
COFFEE Table. Worth $2000. Selling for $100. Excellent cond. 0493 777 707
CUSHIONS, assorted colours, $4 each. 4982 8787
LAMP shades x2 new $15 for both 0493 777 707
LA-Z-BOY 2 seater lounge, beige colour leather upholstery, ex cond. $750. 0439 789 052 e100425
QUEEN quit cover new $15 0493 777 707
ROOF racks, service repair manual, new oil filter to suit a Ford Territory. $70. Ph 0400 949 483
SANDALS ladies leather, 3 pairs, each worn once $30 0468 546 109 or 4982 0063
THROW rug, homemade, woollen crochet $30. 4982 8787 F211124
THROW rugs, assorted colours, $8 each. 4982 8787
TV hardly used, TCL Smart TV. Unwanted gift. $350. 4982 3521
TWO Black Wolf folding Compact Camping Chairs, high back for comfort, as new cond Located in HN. $60 each or two for $99. 0493 078 190
TWO outdoor chairs near new. $20 for both 0493 777 707
STACER 429 Outlaw Yamaha 50hp, alum trailer with mag wheels biminey, colour sounder live well plus extras AJP782N / TE085C 49871101 after 2pm $15,950 ono. e270325
DRINK dispenser w/ tap 8L in box
SOLD
2, antique. Make an offer. 4982 3495
VEHICLE dent repair outfit with body filler $50 (never used) 0402 087 401
DRUM box (cajon) dbl sided $55 ono 0421 286 861 f130325
EUROMAID 2 plate cooktop bench oven perfect cond. $100 0408 431 488 F200325
FAN 12v oscillating for caravan with clamp cig lighter socket, $15 located at Nelson Bay Ph 0439 252 028 F191224
BED head on legs queen white, very attractive $50. 0432 585 156 NEWS OF THE AREA and Call for Classifieds (02) 4981 8882 PORT STEPHENS MYALL COAST
MENS bicycle, Trek Alfa 3700, GC geared, make an offer. 49970611 F200325
SLIM single mattress and base. 760 x 1900mm. $50. 4997 2017
clothesdryer, 4kgs $50 0402 207 519 F130325 WESTINGHOUSE top loader washing machine hardly used $400 ono 0402 207 519 SMART TV 56” $100 0402 207 519
SOFA bed vgc double $50 4982 2335
MENS size S: 2 LS shirts (H-M): (Eddie Wood). 1 H-M Trousers Suitable for end of year Functions as new. $30 0412 783 707
MENS steel cap safety boots, size 6 Blacksmith $30 4982 8628 F130225
SPEEDY mag wheels & tyres, near new, suit Holden or Ford, $600 ono Hawks Nest. 0439 429 041
WHEELCHAIR electric Shoprider VGC, easy to use new batteries can deliver. $950 0418 430 643 Re250925
WOK, new with glass lid, $20. 0493 777 707 F171024
SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $7,800. 0415 678 687 Re170625
WHITE 4 door manual
2015 Suzuki Swift CXL01W. 152,000kms 10 months rego,
SATURDAY, April 12
co-owner of a chip shop is found in his own freezer.
10.05 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) The team finds suspects further afield.
10.50 Boat Story. (MA15+dlv, R) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe.
8.30 Snowdon & Margaret: A Scandalous Affair. (PGa, R)
9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PG, R) 10.15 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
11.15 Paris Paris. (Ms, R)
3.10 Bamay. (R)
4.05 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Narrated by Grant Bowler.
7.30 MOVIE: The Day After Tomorrow. (2004, Ma, R) A sudden ice age engulfs Earth. Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal.
9.55 MOVIE: The Book Of Eli. (2010, MA15+v, R) A man fights to protect a sacred book. Denzel Washington.
12.20 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Taupo Super400. Day 1. Highlights.
1.20 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)
2.30 To Be Advised.
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PGln, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Mrs Doubtfire. (1993, PGal, R) A man poses as a female housekeeper. Robin Williams, Sally Field.
11.00 MOVIE: The Birdcage. (1996, Ml, R) Robin Williams.
1.15 Let’s Eat With George. (R)
1.45 Talking Honey. (PG, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple have a five-bed Donvale home. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A specialist critical care paramedic responds to a head-on collision that has left a driver trapped in their
6am A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 8.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 10.00 The Big Chill. (1983, M) Noon The Devil Has A Name. (2019, M) 1.50 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 4.00 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 6.20 Roman Holiday. (1953, PG) 8.30 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 10.15 House Of Pleasures. (2011, MA15+, French) 12.40am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, April 13
6.25 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
6.30 Compass. (PG)
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Darby And Joan. (Mad)
8.15 Unforgotten. (Mal)
9.05 Boat Story. (MA15+v) Janet and Samuel plot their next move.
10.05 MOVIE: Windrider. (1986, Mdls, R) 11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R)
12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 Gardening Australia. (R)
4.30 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Ancient Empires. (Mav)
9.30 Clash Of The Crown Princes. 10.30 What They Found. (MA15+aw)
11.20 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (PGav, R)
12.15 Rebel With A Cause: Neville Bonner. (PGal, R)
1.15 Empires Of New York. (MA15+ad, R)
3.45 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.00 Highway Patrol. (PG, R) Officers hunt for a fleeing driver.
8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 3. (2023, MA15+av) Robert McCall battles the Italian Mafia. Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning.
11.00 MOVIE: Firestarter. (2022, MA15+av)
1.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Taupo Super400. Day 2. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. 8.00 RBT. (Ml) 8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. (MA15+a) A look at the People versus Michael Jackson trial. 10.30 9News Late.
11.00 See No Evil. (Mav) 11.50 The First 48. (Mav) 12.40 Oz Off Road TV. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R) 5.00 Today Early News.
ABC FAMILY (22)
WEDNESDAY, April 16
Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 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. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (M)
The survivalists’ race to catch a wallaby.
8.40 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+) June struggles to save her loved ones.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlsv, R)
3.30 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGl, R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Body Of Lies. (2008, MA15+) 10.50 MOVIE: Moneyball. (2011, M) 1.15am Late Programs.
(32)
6am All Roads
Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 7.45 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 9.40 The Glassworker. (2024, PG, Urdu) 11.30 The Promise. (2016, M) 1.55pm Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 3.50 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 5.50 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 7.40 6 Days. (2017, M) 9.30 The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. (2009, MA15+, Swedish) 12.15am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, April 17
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Restoration Australia. (PG) 9.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 9.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R)
10.45 ABC Late News.
11.00 The Business. (R) 11.20 Darby And Joan. (Mad, R) 12.05 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 12.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 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 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 10.05 Merlin. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us. (Premiere, PG)
8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel. (PG)
9.35 Virdee. (MA15+)
10.45 SBS World News Late.
11.15 Breaking Point. (MA15+a)
12.05 Blinded. (MA15+ds, R)
1.50 Desperate Measures. (Malv, R)
3.30 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? (PGa, R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Hoarders. 2.10 Planet A. 2.40 Insight. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.40 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PG, French) 7.55 Sun Children. (2020, PG, Farsi) 9.45 RBG. (2018, PG) 11.35 Mass. (2021, M) 1.40pm All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 3.25 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard. (2009, PG) 5.10 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 7.30 Gold. (2016, M) 9.45 The Girl Who Played With Fire. (2009, MA15+, Swedish) 12.10am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 The Stevenson Experience: Stranger Twins. (MA15+ls) A standup comedy show by The Stevenson Experience.
11.30 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.30 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (PGs)
8.30 The Grand Tour. (Ml, R) 9.50 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
10.50 9News Late.
11.20 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)
12.10 Next Stop. 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
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.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) Graeme Hall meets a noisy maltipoo. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) Racers skydive over the city of Dubai.
11.30 The Chernobyl Disaster. (Ma, R)
12.30 Emergency Call. (Ma, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
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. NRL. Round 7. Manly Sea Eagles v St George Illawarra
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
By Chris KARAS
q Nelson Bay Gropers’ new rugby recruits Jobe Hirschausen, Neil O’Keefe, Harry Porter, Cooper Stone, Eddie Du Vos and Brayden McMaster are ready to impress in the 2025 Hunter Suburban Rugby Men’s series.