By Simon EKINS
Police target DFV offenders
POLICE have charged 627 people with more than 1300 offences during a four-day statewide operation targeting domestic and family violence (DFV).
“Operation Amarok X” ran from Wednesday 14 May to Saturday 17 May 2025, and involved officers from all police area commands and police districts across NSW.
The Domestic and Family Violence Commandled operation also involved officers from each regions’ Domestic Violence High Risk Offenders Team (DVHROT), along with specialist officers from Raptor Squad, Youth Command, State Crime Command’s Child Protection Register, Traffic & Highway Patrol Command, and the Police Transport Command.
Across the four days, 627 people were arrested and charged with 257 arrest warrants executed.
Police laid 1316 charges and conducted 1276 bail compliance checks and 12,926 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 535 breaches identified.
Officers conducted 125 firearms prohibition order (FPO) searches, with 100 firearms and 16 weapons seized.
Domestic and Family Violence Corporate Sponsor, Assistant Commissioner Peter Mckenna, said Amarok X had a focus on protecting young victims with officers from Youth Command attending schools and PCYCs to help educate and engage with young people.
“We know the psychological trauma caused by a child or young person, when they are exposed to domestic and family abuse, can have a lasting effect,”
Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“No one – and especially no child – should have to experience violence and should be safe in their own home.
“There have been
160,000 reported incidents of domestic violence in the past 12 months, which is an average of about 438 per day. That is unacceptable and is not tolerated by police or our society.”
Locally, officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District commenced an investigation after a 37-yearold woman was allegedly assaulted, resulting in a broken jaw and a wound to her leg.
Following inquiries, officers arrested a 44-yearold man at a Maitland home.
He was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with “cause grievous bodily harm to person with intent (DV)”, and “wound person intend to cause grievous
q Police laid 1316 charges and conducted 1276 bail compliance checks and 12,926 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 535 breaches identified.
bodily harm (DV)”.
The man appeared at Maitland Local Court last Wednesday, where he was formally refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday 9 July 2025.
Elsewhere in the Hunter, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District and the Northern Region DVHROT arrested a man on Velinda Street, Edgeworth.
Police will allege in court the man assaulted a woman known to him at a home in Edgeworth in March 2025.
The 29-year-old man was taken to Toronto Police Station where two outstanding warrants were executed, and he was charged with “assault occasioning
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actual bodily harm (DV)”.
He was refused bail to appear before Toronto Local Court the same day where he was granted conditional bail to appear at the same court on Thursday 31 May 2025.
Last Thursday, officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District attended Newcastle Police Station and arrested a 25-year-old man after he was transferred from a correctional facility.
Police will allege in court that the man contacted a woman known to him more than 300 times between January and April 2025 and made serious threats of harm, in breach of a current enforceable AVO.
He was charged with 75 offences.
He appeared before Newcastle Local Court last Friday where he was formally refused bail to appear at
Wollongong Local Court on Wednesday 4 June 2025.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District also commenced an investigation after a 23-year-old woman was allegedly repeatedly assaulted by a man known to her last Monday.
Following inquiries, officers attached to the Newcastle City Domestic Violence Team attended a home at Jesmond about 2pm last Thursday and arrested a 26-year-old man.
He was taken to Waratah Police Station and charged with multiple offences.
The man was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court last Friday.
Reports of domestic and family-related crime or abuse can be made by contacting or attending your local police station. In an emergency, contact Triple Zero (000).
Drones provide eyes in the sky for Fisheries
Officers
THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is harnessing the power of drones to enhance fisheries compliance operations
DPIRD Director Fisheries Compliance Mika Malkki said fisheries officers are responsible for monitoring the vast coastline and inland lakes and rivers across NSW and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are proving to be a game changer, providing real-time monitoring and surveillance capabilities from distant vantage points.
NIGHT
“The drones can effortlessly reach remote areas, capturing vital images and data more efficiently, by not having to deploy major assets like vessels or physically covering ground,” said Mr Malkki.
“Equipped with cameras and sensors, these drones deliver real-time information on illegal fishing activities and environmental damage.
“Drones also play a crucial role in regulating commercial fishing providing increased monitoring capacity of remote activities.”
Mr Malkki said that UAV’s are able to provide Fisheries Officers with critical and timely evidence in many cases compared to traditional methodologies,which is essential for compliance operations and investigations.
“UAV technology has proven its effectiveness in the recent apprehension of a 51 year old male on the banks of the Hunter River, who was found in possession of a 70 metre length of commercial fishing net and 38 crab traps alleged to have been used unlawfully in the waters adjacent,” Mr Malkki said.
“This rapidly evolving technology provided Fisheries Officers with the enhanced ability to undertake surveillance from a safe distance and determine a strategic compliance approach prior to apprehension.
“They also assist in the assessment of the health of marine ecosystems by enabling our teams to survey mangroves and salt marshes, allowing us to better understand the impacts of harmful activities like clearing and dredging of key fish habitats.
“Recent drone flights uncovered illegal seawall constructions and damage to seagrass habitats, identifying unauthorized work not approved by Fisheries or the council.”
The public are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch line on 1800 043 536 or online at: bit. ly/38lU4OB.
Review launched into ‘doli incapax’
A NEW study by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has found a significant decline in the number of young people aged 10 to 13 years found guilty of a criminal offence in NSW, following a landmark High Court of Australia decision in 2016.
The decision in the case of RP v R clarified the application of the legal principle of “doli incapax”, which presumes that children under 14 years are incapable of criminal responsibility unless proven otherwise.
The High Court's 2016 decision clarified that to rebut the presumption of
doli incapax, the prosecution must prove that the child understood their actions were seriously wrong, not merely naughty.
The judgement requires prosecutors to provide proof beyond merely showing that the child committed the offence, and that the offence was “obviously wrong”.
Following the ruling, the proportion of 10-13 year olds with a proven outcome in the NSW Children’s Court fell dramatically from 76 percent in 2015-16 to 16 percent in 2022-23.
Over the same period, the volume of 10-13 year olds charged by police has been
mostly stable.
The decline in proven outcomes was accompanied by an increase in cases where all charges are withdrawn by the prosecution, rising from 12 percent in 2015-16 to 53 percent in 2022-23.
There has also been a notable decline in guilty pleas among this age group, falling from 54 percent in 2015-16 to 14 percent in 2022-23.
The findings highlight that, despite the formal age of criminal responsibility remaining at 10 years, it is now very uncommon for a child aged under 14 to be found guilty of a crime in NSW.
Commenting on the findings BOCSAR Executive Director, Jackie Fitzgerald, said that the High Court decision appears to have made it more difficult to convict younger children.
“The trend is most evident in states such as NSW, Victoria and South Australia, which rely on a common law understanding of doli incapax,” she said.
“States which have defined doli incapax in legislation, such as Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania, have not shown a similar decline.
“The result raises questions about how best to support vulnerable young
people who participate in crime at an early age in order to reduce future harm to themself and the community.”
Last week, following the release of BOCSAR’s findings, the NSW Government launched a review into doli incapax.
The review is being undertaken by former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew SC, and former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner, Mr Jeffrey Loy.
The pair will consider how the presumption of doli incapax is applied in criminal proceedings, the impact of its operation on
options for intervention, what improvements could be made and a framework for legislation.
They will also consider how doli incapax interacts with the Young Offenders Act 1997 and the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020, and other relevant matters including community safety and the interests of children.
Stakeholders including victims’ groups, local and regional communities, Aboriginal-led organisations and legal and government stakeholders will be consulted as part of the review.
They are due to report back to the Attorney General in the second half of 2025.
Public hearings on renewable energy impacts
PUBLIC hearings were held in Dubbo and Sydney last week as part of an Upper House inquiry into the impact of Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) on rural and regional communities and industries in New South Wales.
The Sydney hearing featured a number of NSW Government agencies involved in REZs, including independent agencies such as the Net Zero Commission, landowners, environmental groups, and peak organisations such as NSW Farmers, the Minerals Council and Business NSW.
The regional hearing in Dubbo heard from local landowners, community members, renewable energy providers and councils about the development of largescale renewable projects in the region.
"We want to hear firsthand about the real and potential impacts of REZs and associated projects on farmers, residents and local businesses,” inquiry chair Mark Banasiak MLC said.
“The hearings are an opportunity to provide a complete story of what has happened and is happening on the ground.
"At the same time, we will also hear from renewable
energy providers and the government about how they have implemented their projects and how they are working with the community to deliver the social and economic benefits they have argued will be realised by the transition to energy."
The state’s peak body for agricultural producers, NSW Farmers, appeared at the inquiry on Tuesday.
“Our members are telling us that consultation with farming regions around these projects is still dysfunctional, and this must change if we are to sustain our farming communities,” NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said.
“Farmland we need is being taken away without proper engagement or compensation, and then there’s the huge pressure that these renewable projects are putting on local roads and towns during their construction.”
Mr Martin said the NSW Government also had work to do to ensure farmers and communities weren’t unfairly footing the bill for direct and indirect costs and risks associated with renewable developments.
“At the moment, it seems any farmers will
have to decommission these renewable installations once they reach the end of their lifespan, and anyone neighbouring a project isn’t guaranteed any compensation for the impact it has on their farm and its value,” Mr Martin said.
“Transmission lines also pose a real fire risk, and there
aren’t any proper protocols in place to manage this.
“These are just some of the issues we must see fixed, so the race to renewables does not come at the cost of our food and fibre, or the farm communities that produce it.”
EnergyCo is in the early stages of planning a REZ in the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
Augsgrid is providing information sessions on the Hunter-Central Coast REZ proposal at the following locations:
Muswellbrook Library: Wednesday 21 May 20254pm - 6pm
Branxton Community Hall: Thursday 22 May 20254pm - 6pm
Valley Markets Singleton: Sunday 25 May 2025 - 9pm12pm
Online webinars will also be held on Monday 19 May from 6:30pm - 7:15pm and Tuesday 20 May from 12:30pm - 1:15pm. Register via yoursay. ausgrid.com.au/HCCREZ.
q A map of the proposed Hunter-Central Coast REZ. Image: EnergyCo.
Regional collaboration key for airport expansion
MAYORS and council general managers from across the Hunter took an exclusive tour of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal development on Monday 12 May.
The local governments represented are members of the Hunter Joint Organisation (HJO), a collaborative body that brings together the ten councils in the region.
The tour was led by Newcastle Airport Director Leah Anderson, who also serves as the Mayor of Port Stephens and HJO Deputy Chair.
Joining Ms Anderson in delivering the tour was Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager People and Communications, Burcak Sezer and the Airport’s
Planning and Infrastructure team.
The visit provided a behind-the-scenes look at the progress of the terminal, which is on track to open in August 2025.
Once complete, the upgraded facility will position Newcastle Airport as NSW’s second international gateway, unlocking new global routes, investment, and economic opportunity for the region.
The tour also included updates on the airport’s air cargo advocacy efforts, the continued growth of Astra Aerolab, and regional partnership efforts to attract new international and domestic routes.
Mr Sezer said collaboration was key to realising the full potential of the international terminal for the Hunter.
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"The success of this project relies on strong regional partnerships," Ms Sezer said.
"This facility will be a major driver of economic growth – not just for Newcastle, but for every part of the Hunter."
Ms Anderson said the airport expansion will make the Hunter “more connected and easier to explore for
both visitors and our local community”.
“This international gateway into our backyard will ultimately generate huge economic activity and is expected to drive increased local investment and support businesses across our region,”
Cr Anderson said.
In attendance were representatives of Singleton, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Cessnock,
q Representatives from Singleton, Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog and Newcastle councils attended the airport tour.
Dungog and Newcastle councils.
Cr Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton and Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation said, “As the Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation, representing the ten Mayors of the Hunter region, we understand the importance of the Newcastle Airport to our region’s ongoing economic transformation.
“This major infrastructure project
will enable our region's visitor economy to grow as investment and tourism opportunities open.
“It will provide great opportunities for external investment, driving further development and growth within our region.
“We want to share our breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and worldrenowned vineyards with others and this provides us the opportunity to do so.”
Listen to the waves, walk to the beach
23 Morna Point Road, Anna Bay
3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car
Open home: Saturday 24 May, 10.00-10.30am
On-site auction: Saturday 31 May, 11.00am
LOCATED only 260 metres approximately from the water, this Torrens Title duplex (no strata) offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity.
Designed for low maintenance living, the home features an open-plan layout with two spacious living areas and a huge undercover outdoor area perfect for entertaining.
A private courtyard adds to the charm, providing a peaceful retreat.
There are three generous bedrooms, with the possibility of a fourth bedroom on the ground level if needed.
The master bedroom boasts an ensuite, ensuring privacy and convenience, while the other two bedrooms offer ample space for family or guests.
The property comes with a double garage and an expansive area for additional parking, accommodating multiple vehicles with ease.
Equipped with ducted
air conditioning, the home ensures comfort throughout the year.
Anna Bay is a thriving community experiencing significant growth, with its pristine beaches and friendly atmosphere attracting residents and visitors alike.
The location offers the best of both worlds: serene coastal living with easy access to urban conveniences.
A short drive will take you to Salamander's shopping centres, hotels, and supermarkets in less than 10 minutes.
Call Nelson Bay Real Estate on 02 4981 2655.
Care home celebrates its nurses
By Simon EKINS
INTERNATIONAL
Nurses
Day is celebrated on 12 May
- the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth.
This year, the occasion was marked stylishly at Shoal Bay’s Harbourside care facility.
A morning tea was organised to thank current and former nursing staff for their hard work in caring for the residents.
After some fascinating stories, recounted by former staff members, a game of “who can bandage the fastest” was organised.
Shifts continued as normal elsewhere in the facility, where a registered nurse (RN) in each of the three buildings leads a team of staff around the clock, seven days a week.
Claire Pleym explained what a typical day in the life of a Harbourside nurse entails.
“I start my shift at 6am with a handover from the night staff,” she said.
“After that, I plan my day, review any wounds that need attention, appointments that need to be followed up, and
any other tasks that require prioritising.
“At 7am I begin my rounds which include all medications and the administering of insulin.
“During breakfast, I visit the dining area to check in with the residents, have a chat, and see how everyone is doing.
“After breakfast, I start wound care, and depending on how many there are, this can take me through to around 11am.
“[Then] we have a team
huddle to touch base, where the staff let me know how things are going and flag any resident concerns.
“Based on this, I may need to check in with certain residents or, if everything’s stable, spend some time doing paperwork.
“Just before lunch, I do another round of insulin administration.
“Throughout the day, I also respond to requests for pain relief, nausea, dizziness etc., which includes doing pain charting, taking vitals,
and writing up progress notes, fitting these in wherever possible.
“The afternoon is mostly dedicated to documentation until the handover with the afternoon staff at 1:30pm.
“After handover, I finalise any remaining documentation, complete my shift report, and then head home.”
Claire’s workload is just one example of why International Nurses Day recognises the contributions nursing staff make to society.
Singers and community band unite
THE long-awaited Seaside Singers Autumn Concert is set to take place on 31 May at the Soldiers Point Bowling Club, marking the first collaboration between the choir and the Port Stephens Community Band.
“This event promises to be an entertaining, nostalgic
afternoon filled with familiar and not-so-familiar music from Australia and afar,” said Irene Heywood from the Seaside Singers.
“Get ready to relive your best holiday memories from Australia and overseas.”
The Seaside Singers have been a well-known presence
in Port Stephens for over 15 years, with a repertoire that spans contemporary hits, classic favourites and musical theatre.
The Port Stephens Community Band is a concert band whose members come from all walks of life.
“We are really excited about this joint venture with the Seaside Singers and it will add significantly to audience
enjoyment,” said Band President Di Withers.
The concert will feature the Seaside Singers’ specially selected mix of music from Australia and around the world, with the Band showcasing their own special touches.
For more information, contact info@seasidesingers. com.au.
q The Seaside Singers are collaborating with the Port Stephens Community Band for the first time.
q The nurses station in Harbourside Port Stephens’ hospital.
q RN Claire, training a new staff member.
q Care staff competed in a ‘bandage race’.
Raymond Terrace Community PBL program
THE Raymond Terrace Community Positive Behaviour for Learning program has returned in 2025, recognising local children and young people who display positive values at school and in the community.
Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) is a joint initiative with Hunter River High School, Irrawang High School, Raymond Terrace Public School, Grahamstown Public School, Seaham Public School, Karuah Public School, Medowie Public School, Salt Ash Public School and Irrawang Public School.
Sarah Rudolph, Relieving Principal at Irrawang Public School, told NOTA, “PBL was implemented at Irrawang Public School in 2010 and has become the framework for all of our systems and practices in order to enhance learning.
“PBL is a proactive system that responds to the needs of the school, focusing on the behaviours we want to see, so students understand what they are supposed to do in all settings.
“This sets students up for success and increases engagement.
“Community PBL was a natural progression, taking those same values outside the school gate.
“It has been wonderful to see so many students being acknowledged for being
responsible citizens outside of school.”
Last week’s winners:
Irrawang PS: Lorcan has been nominated for respectfully representing Irrawang Public School at the Raymond Terrace ANZAC service. He delivered an outstanding address to the Raymond Terrace community. Lorcan also assisted on election day to raise funds for the P&C.
Raymond Terrace PS: Gregory is nominated by community members for his heartfelt and respectful presentation of prayer to service men and women at the town’s ANZAC service.
He backs this up every day with his interactions with those around him, young and old. He models respect.
Grahamstown PS: Kobe is nominated for his remarkable support and encouragement during the recent school cross country event. Kobe exemplified the true spirit of camaraderie and compassion by stepping in to assist a fellow student who was facing difficulties.
Irrawang HS: During his time as Vice Captain of Irrawang High School, Jack has proved himself to be an exemplary leader in many ways. He represented Irrawang High School at the Medowie and Raymond Terrace ANZAC Day services,
the latter where he was coMC. Jack was also part of the leadership team heavily involved in the opening of new school buildings and upgrades last week.
Hunter River HS: Lila has been nominated for her dedication to supporting younger students in Stage 4 Aboriginal Studies. She consistently promotes the PBL values of Acting Responsibly, Respect, and Success, helping foster a positive learning environment. Her contributions have made a significant impact,
encouraging growth and engagement among her peers.
Salt Ash PS: Elsie is receiving an award for consistently demonstrating PBL values during a recent StarStruck excursion. She displayed respect, responsibility, and a strong sense of teamwork, representing her school with pride. Elsie's positive attitude, willingness to help others, and excellent conduct throughout the excursion made her a role model for her peers.
Medowie PS: Lawson is an empathetic and caring school citizen. He has been noticed by school staff on three occasions helping his friends. When he sees a friend is crying or upset (such as having trouble separating from their parents in the morning), Lawson zeroes in on them and tries to help them and puts an arm around them.
Seaham PS: Obie is a wonderful school citizen who consistently shows respect towards others. He was observed redirecting a
q Last week’s winners receiving their awards.
younger student who was upset during a playground game. Obie took the student to a new space and organised another game for him to play.
Karuah PS: Mylah is nominated for consistently demonstrating sportsmanship at school and in the community. Mylah is a team player and is always encouraging her fellow teammates during weekend sport. She is also a positive sporting role model for the younger students at school.
Olympic experience for Tea Gardens students
By Thomas O’KEEFE
STUDENTS at Tea Gardens Public School (TGPS) were inspired by the presence of Olympic archer Matthew Gray, who presented the ‘Olympics Unleashed’ program to Years 2-6 on Friday 16 May.
This was the first time the program had been run at Tea Gardens, after successfully being offered to metro schools in previous years.
“The Australian Olympic Committee engages with students in Australia to unleash their passion,” said Matthew, who hails from Nelson Bay.
“It does not have to be sport or art - diversity, resilience and opportunity are important.
“The Olympics Unleashed program started just before the Tokyo Games, and was originally aimed at Year 9 students, but it has been expanded to benefit many more.”
Students discussed and identified themes relevant to Olympians’ journeys, such as “never give up” and “it’s ok if you don’t win”, dealing with disappointment, bravery and commitment.
“You need to be able to rely on your friends and family for their support,” Matthew told the children.
He also shared anecdotes from his personal experience.
“A windy day taught me how to ‘stay in the moment’, not hold onto failures, and not blame everyone else for
something I had done wrong – things mightn’t go your way, so you have to bounce back,” Matthew told the kids.
Matthew’s Olympic journey took him to Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Beijing 2008.
He also competed at the New Delhi Commonwealth
Games in 2010, where he achieved the long-dreamt goal of gold in a nail-biting face-off with the local favourite.
A strong theme of the presentation was goalsetting, which Matthew returned to frequently.
“In 2008, I had a baby
girl and a job. I had to juggle that to achieve my goal of attending a third Olympics.”
Some of the kids got to try on Matthew’s old Olympic and Commonwealth Games uniforms, each one designed for the environment of the host city, and covered in important symbolism to remind him of home.
TGPS student Owen Dennis was lucky enough to
try out Matthew’s archery bow, which requires significant strength to pull back.
“I got stronger when the room was cheering and clapping,” Owen said.
TGPS Principal Mark Clemson told NOTA the program was a “fabulous opportunity for students at Tea Gardens to aspire to set goals and achieve”.
By Gary WATT
q Students were keen to get into the discussion about sports dreams and goal-setting.
q Some students got to try on Olympic uniforms (L-R): Maddie, Kayleigh, Karim, Otto, Sonny, Christine, Zachary, Hudson and Tegan.
News Of The Area
Dorin’s Draws
By Paul DORIN
Misinformation on offshore wind
DEAR News Of The Area,
TO follow up on a previous letter from Justin Page, as the President of No Off Shore Turbines Port Stephens, I can safely say that we do not make any such claims about dead whales (misinformation). The Advance leaflets were placed on seats at a NREN (National Rational Energy Network) event we attended (misinformation).
Some of our members showed support for the Liberal candidate in the recent election and why wouldn’t they when the Liberal pledged to revoke the zone; it just makes sense.
Did union members show support for Labor? (misleading information).
Show me where we have links to fossil fuel (misinformation).
MAGA? Trump? Really?
I’m sure Justin would love to brand us as extreme right wing loons but this would be so far from truth it’s laughable.
As for utilising global tactics to erode the social licence (there is none), you don’t even live in Port Stephens so how would you know anything about the social licence here?
Close to 10,000 members on the Facebook page is hardly a few radical NIMBYS (misinformation). None of our group is diametrically opposed to renewable energy but simply the inappropriate location in this beautiful pristine environment (misinformation).
Offshore wind next steps
DEAT News Of The Area,
IT was interesting to read the reactions to Justin Page's call to "move forward with proper, fact based assessments of the environmental and economic impacts of the Hunter offshore wind industry".
That does not seem to be an unreasonable suggestion and is aligned with the requirements of the Feasibility Licence offered to Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd by the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR
Jasminda,
THE other night, my brotherin-law invited himself over for dinner.
However, I had not prepared enough for him (as he was unannounced), and he got annoyed and left. Now he won’t reply to either my husband's or my messages.
How do you suggest I go about this?
Normine
B
Dear Normine,
I'm picking up some pretty serious psycho vibes from your conundrum.
Normine B? Is there a Norman in the family? Is your surname Bates?
Does he have a penchant for taxidermy and/or a mother in the attic?
I am not here to judge, though, Normine.
One thing we definitely agree on is having a fact based assessment of the environment but to date there has been none.
The studies should have been done before the commercialisation, monetising and declaration of the zone.
Could someone please tell me what environmental studies will be conducted?
What economic studies will be conducted?
Will we ever see the results of these studies?
Amongst other things the licence holder "must undertake detailed environmental assessments, further stakeholder consultations and plan the project".
The licence holder must also "consult with the local community and First Nations groups and marine users".
It's an exhaustive process which may take up to seven years.
Provided the studies, assessments and consultations are carried out by properly qualified and objective people there should not be any objections should there?
Regards, Col NICHOLSON, Hawks Nest.
FROM Page 15 going fishing.
This can be said for every fishing spot. If the right conditions are not in play you are wasting your time
Greatest bream fishing success, while fishing the “tubes”, can be achieved in the coldest months of the year particularly around Easter and Anzac Day when the huge schools of mullet are on the move. All the bream fishing rules apply.
A 2/0 hook on a 6kg unweighted line will give you every opportunity
So let's turn to your question and address the facts. Your brother-in-law arrived unannounced.
This in itself could be normal or aggravating depending on whether you are a social creature or an introvert who likes to get mentally (and in this case gustatorily) prepared for visitors.
When you are not expecting drop-in guests, dinner plans can range from Weetbix (with hot or cold milk as desired) to a toasted sandwich, to a menopausal breakdown where you tell your family you are retiring to the bedroom with a box of Ferrero Rochers and (after devoting the past 30 years to meals on the table) they can eat bread and pullet under the table for all you care.
But I digress.
Arriving unannounced for dinner is not acceptable behaviour for anyone, even a relative.
People need to give a bit of notice.
Let's turn to the next piece of information.
You have not indicated how your brother-in-law showed his annoyance.
Did he storm out, his solitary Jatz cracker left untouched?
Did he reverse aggressively
Who will be conducting them? How much environmental degradation is acceptable?
How much energy will they actually produce as opposed to “could” power one million homes?
The lack of trust is based on the shady way that this whole thing has started and two years later nothing has changed.
We are at the doorstep of the fourth step in an eight step process.
Please don’t insult the community’s intelligence by trying to tell everyone that it’s many years
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
THERE is only one notable release in Australian cinemas this week, though it’s likely to be on a fair few “Top 10” lists come the end of 2025.
Lilo & Stitch gets the live-action adaptation treatment from Disney.
It follows the adventures of the alien “Experiment 626” after he crashes in Hawaii and is adopted by an orphaned child and her older sister.
The original animated film had
been developed as a sort of “secondrun” feature to the film that Disney had expected to be a major success in 2002, Treasure Planet.
As it turned out, that film was viewed as a disappointment while Lilo & Stitch became a phenomenal hit - a scenario that looks set to be repeated following the recent relative box-office failure of Snow White.
The director of the original film, Chris Sanders, lends his voice once again to Stitch, the impossibly
down the driveway (narrowly avoiding Maestro, the family dog)?
The evidence is very light on here, Normine.
May I suggest you are drawing connections when they may not exist.
What concerns me most, is that he is not replying to either of you.
I have a vision of your brother-in-law (aka the unnamed protagonist) driving off (in his 1957 Ford Custom) in the pelting rain. Feeling faint (now is not the time for regret, Normine), and too tired and dejected to continue (Bernard Herrmann's musical score in the background), he pulls into a shady-looking motel (coincidentally owned by your brother) who suggests a simple cheese and ham sandwich in the parlor.
Normine, I suggest you hire a private investigator (perhaps one named Arbogast) to see what on earth is going on here.
Let me know how it all goes. I will await (eating popcorn) with (Norman-Bated) breath.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
away, the proponents want the turbines to be operational by 2028. I recently invited Justin to engage with myself to have a good chat about this whole thing, “instead of slinging mud over the fence”. It’s sad to see that he chose the latter.
Regards, Ben ABBOTT, President, No Offshore Turbines Port Stephens
strong, indestructible, ridiculously cute yet mischievous metaphor for neuro-diverse children.
While newcomer Maia Kealoha plays Lilo, an imaginative, occasionally rebellious child who delights in the natural world while coming to terms with the loss of her parents.
This film is a surefire family night out, with hilarity, tenderness, adventure and heart that will appeal to even the cynical teens.
Plus Stitch is basically a blue Koala; as Aussies we’re obligated to support this one.
Time to develop our own resources
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE Australian people as well as the people of Port Stephens have voted in support of the Labor Government and its policies.
As for the offshore wind farm, objectors you had your chance to raise legitimate concerns and still
to hook a thumper.
I find the best, most available and easiest to handle bait is a strip of freshly caught mullet.
Allowed to slowly sink, the steady pull of the bream is a sure sign that the action is about to begin.
As the line tightens, lean back and gently strike.
have the chance to raise them with a dedicated MP in Meryl Swanson.
Instead of tunnel vision regarding the wind project and attacks against Justin Page, who has been consistent and clear on his views, take your issues to the local member who can approach Minister Bowen.
There is no necessity to swing like a rusty gate if your hook is sharp.
Once hooked the bream will helter-skelter out into deep water.
Hold your rod erect and let the bream do all the work.
We have just seen how dependent we are on the US, so now is the time to develop and utilise our own resources to lessen the burden on Australians.
Regards, Gerry MOHAN, Shoal Bay.
Fish around one kilogram can put up a fair battle before they are lifted up onto the platform.
Only metres apart the fishing opportunities are very different on the Torpedo Tube and the Gantry. The Tube is recognised as one of the best bream spots in the Port while the Gantry is better known for tailor, drummer and mulloway.
READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 32: 8
GUIDE - "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you and and watch over you."
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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)
Thursday, 22 May 2025
Stinker’s History: Pioneering families of Marsh Road
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
TO appreciate and understand the determination of the Bobs Farm community it is necessary to meet the pioneering families.
To say they were tough would be an understatement. They were far more than that!
Having written about these families and having the privilege of meeting their descendants over the past few years, I feel that I have grown to know them.
What I have discovered is that an incredibly strong bond of connection existed between the families, dating back to the mid-to-late 1800s, far stronger than in today’s society.
Much of this, I suppose, could be explained by the marriages between families that lived in close proximity,
however there existed something stronger too.
They relied heavily on each other without really being aware of it.
It appears to me that there was a feeling of stability.
The future seemed more predictable and unaffected by outside influences.
The families focused on hard work, providing food for the table, sending the kids to school (at least until they could work on the farm) and paying for everything they owned.
Apart from attending to the basics of life, the early families always had time for social engagement, which in most cases was based around the Bobs Farm Hall or the numerous tennis courts that were spread around the district.
There were 17 tennis courts between Anna Bay and the end of
q In the late 1800s, with simple shovels and strong backs, the
Marsh Road.
Births, deaths and marriages were the business of the entire community, which would celebrate and grieve together, giving great strength and support to whoever happened to be the centre of attention.
The community shared in their successes and sympathised in their losses.
It was a period in the history of the development of Australia, as I have stated in my previous books “Broughton Islanders”, “Old Salt”, “Oysterman” and “The Outer Light”, that I would love to have experienced.
With the recent launching of my final book “Marsh Road”, the set of five local history books is complete.
Writing the books has been a pleasure in that it has given me the opportunity to meet and interact with numerous members of the
Port Stephens community who I otherwise would not have met.
To have all five books admitted to the NSW State Library gives me great satisfaction in knowing that the unique history of Port Stephens will be available for all time.
It goes without saying that if we do not take the time to document our past then all will be forgotten.
Our past history is too precious for that to occur.
I would encourage everyone to consider writing their personal history and life experiences, particularly the older generation.
The grandchildren may not be interested just yet but they will be further down the track.
In the near future Port Stephens may have its own regional museum.
An enthusiastic group of historians are pushing the idea along through the Tomaree Museum Association.
Stinker’s Fishin’: Here come the bream
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
MOVING inside the heads to the protection of the port I discovered that the fishing options seemed endless in this massive waterway.
When I first arrived in Nelson Bay in 1975, I was a regular out on the “tubes” at all hours of the night and in all conditions.
The bream fishing was, and still is, sensational - in the right conditions.
On a dark moonless winter night on a rising tide bream gather over the boulders that surround the Torpedo Tube.
A floating bait of fresh mullet or prawn will do the trick on a 2/0 hook and 6kg line.
Bream fishing off the Torpedo Tube is at its peak during the winter months when strong and persistent southerly winds whip up angry seas in excess of 2.5 metres.
Big grey swells crash into Tomaree Headland and swing around the corner into the Port where they first encounter two, man-made, structures constructed during WWII.
At the time, the government of the country was convinced that the Japanese Imperial Forces would target Port Stephens as a point of invasion.
Tomaree Headland is heavily fortified and has a long history of occupation during the war years with American troops involved.
Referred to as the Gantry and the Torpedo Tube the two structures, crumbling with time, have now become hot spots for bream and drummer fishers.
The structures jut out from the natural contour of the land and provide an ideal platform for fishing.
The Torpedo Tube is one of the most popular bream fishing spots inside the port, however this does not mean that you will catch bream simply by turning up.
On still, glassy nights, with little to no wave action on a full moon, there is every chance that you will not get a bite. You will return home empty handed suggesting all the positive reports that you heard and read about were all nonsense. CONTINUED Page 14
men dug the main drain from Anna Bay to Taylors Beach so that the rich soil could be farmed.
q The Holliday family were but one of the wonderful families that called Marsh Road home: (L-R) Eric, Irene, Edith and Gordon Holliday.
Motorcycle safety workshop
COUNCIL hosted a free motorcycling safety workshop for riders of all experience levels during National Road Safety Week (11-18 May).
The workshop, facilitated by the Survive the Ride Association of NSW, aided motorcyclists in managing risks when riding and encouraged adjustments to riding habits
that significantly enhance personal safety.
Motorcyclists in the Hunter region were involved in 12 percent of crashes between 2019 and 2023, according to statistics provided by the Centre for Road Safety.
“We've got the stats, and they're pretty clear. Motorcyclists, especially folks who might be returning
to riding after a break, are vulnerable on the road,” Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said.
“We wanted to host this workshop to provide an opportunity to identify and find solutions for common challenges faced by motorcyclists.”
National Road Safety Week highlights the impact of road trauma and ways to
reduce it in our community.
Every year, approximately 1,200 people are killed and another 40,000-plus are seriously injured on Australian roads.
Mayor Anderson said National Road Safety Week is a good chance to checkin and consider how we all contribute to safety on local roads.
“Road safety is
SPORT
everyone’s responsibility and at Port Stephens Council, we work closely with our community through a range of initiatives and programs to enhance road safety,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Looking ahead, we’ll be inviting our community to participate in a survey about road safety in Port Stephens as part of the Community Action for Safe Speeds study, led by researchers from The George Institute for Global Health,” Mayor Anderson said.
Fleet-footed Mitchell an asset to Gropers
By Chris KARAS
THE Nelson Bay Gropers
men's rugby team have unearthed a trump card in fullback Sam Mitchell.
Despite a slow start to their 2025 Hunter Suburban Rugby first grade premiership campaign, the Gropers are getting top value from the energised custodian who has sparked the back division with his dashing on-field performances.
It has been a frustrating start to the season for new coach Zion Takarua with only one victory posted from three
matches completed.
Heartbreaking losses to Cooks Hill Brown Snakes (1815) and the Scone Brumbies (28-26) have proved a setback for the Nelson Bay club, which is languishing in fifth spot.
But a shining light for the 2023 champions has been the electric form shown by fleetfooted Mitchell in the fullback role.
In heavy conditions he was the best player on ground in the narrow loss to the Brumbies at Bill Strong Oval – crossing for two neat tries and creating havoc with his
National gold for Anna Bay paddler
By Chris KARAS
ANNA Bay paddler Janine Noonan is savouring one of her finest ever sporting achievements.
The water warrior tasted golden success at the recent Australian Dragon Boat Championships in Sydney by helping the NSW Senior B squad secure three national titles.
An inspirational Noonan demonstrated her endurance and paddling skills in the 50 years plus division – capping a memorable regatta with gold medal triumphs in the Ten Women's Boat 500m, Mixed 20s boat 500m and a
One Kilometre Women’s Tens and Men's Tens boat, where times for both genders were combined for the overall result.
Janine’s triple treat on the challenging Sydney International Regatta Centre course was the culmination of an intensive training program with the NSW team.
“To participate at the national regatta was an honour indeed but to win all three events is a special milestone,” Noonan told News Of the Area.
“I enjoyed my involvement with the NSW squad and competing at an elite level against the best crews in the
land.”
Both state and premium club teams from around the country participated at the top class regatta after navigating a tough qualification process.
Janine, a leading paddler with the Port Stephens Dragon Boat club, took up the sport four and a half years ago and has blossomed into a seasoned state representative.
Qualification for the national titles included an ergometer (ERG) rowing test, in-person physical and inboat qualifying sessions.
Once selected, the dragon boat paddlers were required to travel to Newcastle every second weekend for specialist
training plus additional sessions at the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Hawkesbury River.
Paddlers also completed OC1 resistance training twice a week, three to four weekly gym sessions and regular training with their local clubs.
Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club vice president Karyn Price described the teak-tough Noonan as a “wonderful ambassador for our club.”
“We are all proud of Janine’s achievements and the commitment she has shown to attain such amazing success.”
attacking skills.
Nelson Bay led 12-7 at the break following tries by Mitchell and legendary centre Michael Hotene and a Ryan Marshall conversion.
Mitchell burst through to score a second after the interval along with playmaker Khace Petera, before Scone rallied with a three try blitz to snatch victory.
Skilful half back Kade Redmond and tireless forward Lewis Affleck also impressed for the Gropers.
In the women’s, dynamic winger Teegan Barr starred for Nelson Bay in a 37-5
The CASS (Community Action for Safe Speeds) study aims to find innovative ways to reduce speeding-related road trauma in New South Wales by increasing public demand for safer speeds.
Participants will complete a 20-minute online survey on two occasions, six months apart, that asks questions about demographics and attitudes to road safety issues, including speeds in the community.
The elusive Barr bagged four of the Gropers’ seven tries with sharp winger Tanya Jones (2) and centre Emily Harman also nabbing five pointers.
Flanker Sierra Nowlan was also a standout with hooker Jessica Beam. No fixtures were played last weekend due to the Country Rugby Championships in Tamworth.
Suburban Rugby action resumes this Saturday when Nelson Bay host the Newcastle Griffins at Bill Strong Oval at 3pm followed by the women’s showdown against University.
Appreciation award for Raymond Terrace athlete
By Chris KARAS
Championships in Perth last month, received a special Appreciation Award.
She is one of Raymond Terrace Athletics Club’s first club captains and was recognised not only for her exceptional dedication and hard work as an athlete but her support and encouragement of younger athletes.
Her willingness to assist with setting up equipment and leading the athlete warmups, demonstrates her caring and selfless nature.
Club secretary Deidre Hall told News Of The Area that Ashlyn is “a true role model who inspires others not only through her athletic abilities but also through her positive attitude and leadership.”
“Ashlyn’s efforts don’t go unnoticed and we are proud to have her as a part of our
team.”
Special guests at the awards included Raymond Terrace Bowling Club CEO and former RTAC parent Jason Stokes; Port Stephens West Ward councillors Giacomo Arnott, Peter Francis and Paul Le Mottee; former West Ward councillor and long time RTAC supporter Glenys Francis; Coles Medowie manager Robert Cheung and Port Hunter Zone Little Athletics Zone Co-ordinator Yvonne Webster.
Continuous Service Awards were presented to Austin Lodge and Levi Johnson (five years); Chelsea Terranova (15 years); Jeremy Edstein (20 years) and Katie Turrell (35 years).
Major Centre Championships awards were received by Ainsley Foot and
Georges Cattau (Sub Junior 6-8yrs); Winter Robson and Aiden Langlois (Junior 9-10yrs); Halibelle Buckley and Ethan Lowe (Sub Senior 11-12yrs); Emily Watson and Branxton Clarke (Senior 1315yrs); Ashlyn Wall and Zane Edwards (Under 16 to Under 20yrs); Lily Cains and Ben Edstein (Opens) and Oliver Teiwsen (Masters).
Highest Pointscore trophies were presented to Matilda Shawyer and Aiden Langlois (6-9yrs); Evie Gentle and Levi Johnson (10-12yrs); Emily Watson and Ben Edstein (13yrs to Masters) and Most Improved – Evie Gentle, Aiden Langlois and Kobi Gentle. Awards were also presented to the top three athletes in each age group for the Centre Championships.
q Anna Bay paddler Janine Noonan collected three gold medals at the recent Australian Dragon Boat Championships regatta in Sydney.
triumph over Scone.
q Nelson Bay Gropers lost 28-26 to Scone Brumbies in Hunter Suburban Rugby action at Bill Strong Oval.
EMERGING athlete Ashlyn Wall was officially honoured at the Raymond Terrace
Athletics Centre end-ofseason awards presentation at Raymond Terrace Bowling Club. Seventeen-year-old
Ashlyn, a middle distance running sensation who represented NSW in both the 400m and 800m at the National Athletics
q Major award recipients at the Raymond Terrace Athletics Centre end-of-season awards.
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BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY
ABC TV, 8.30pm
A will-they/won’t-they romance hidden beneath layers of criminal intrigue and forensic examination, this psychological thriller based on the Welsh series Cleddau is not your average crime series. It follows the hunt for a killer whose modus operandi echoes that of the fictional Heart Knot murders, a crime which detectives (and former lovers) Ffion Lloyd (Elen Rhys) and Rick Sheldon (Richard Harrington, pictured, with Rhys) thought they solved 12 years ago. Amid locals’ fears of a copycat killer, Lloyd is called back to Pembroke Dock, the seaside town she left behind to solve the case.
FRIDAY, May 23
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5. (PG, R) 11.10 Bergerac. (Mal, R) 12.00 News. 1.00
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 The One That Got Away. (Premiere, Mal) Two detectives hunt a killer.
9.25 Gruen. (R) The team solves the mystery of the new KFC logo.
10.00 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)
10.30 Big Boys. (MA15+l, R)
11.00 ABC Late News.
11.15 Father Brown. (Ma, R)
12.00 Mayfair Witches. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
MONDAY
THE FLOOR
NBN, 7.30pm
If you’ve found yourself calling out the answers to this competitive quiz show so loudly that you can’t hear the actual contestants, you’re not alone. What started as 81 Aussies standing on a grid of trivia topics is now just nine clever contenders hoping to defend their territory, conquer their neighbours’ tiles and claim the entire board for themselves. Can one of the (unfortunately titled) ‘whales’ hold onto their majority stake? Or will an underdog seize their chance to take over? Host Rodger Corser (right) oversees as the final nine battle it out for the last time. Only one can wipe the floor with their competition and claim the $200,000 grand prize. Let’s duel!
Rome’s Forgotten Sister. (PG, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 12. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 2.00 House
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: Call Me Kate. (2023, PGa, R)
9.05 Snowdon & Margaret: A Scandalous Affair. (PGa, R)
10.00 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes. (R)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Atlantic Crossing. (PGa, R)
12.10 Rex In Rome. (Mlv, R)
2.00 The Head. (Malsv, R)
3.50 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan 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.
8.30 House Of Wellness. (PGas) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates share insights and experiences to highlight living well.
9.30 MOVIE: Under The Tuscan Sun. (2003, Ml, R) A divorcée heads to Tuscany. Diane Lane, Sandra Oh.
11.50 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGa, R) Farmer Tom meets families in home town visits.
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
TUESDAY ANIMALS UP CLOSE BERTIE GREGORY
ABC FAMILY, 8.40pm
A cinematographer on David Attenborough’s Planet Earth documentaries as well as a National Geographic explorer, adventurer and wildlife filmmaker Bertie Gregory has fit an incredible amount of experience into his 32 years. For his second standalone series, Gregory braves sub-zero seas, climbs snow-capped mountains and sleeps suspended in mid-air to bring the daily lives of extraordinary animals and the challenges they face to your living room. Tonight’s episode finds Gregory and his team in the Galápagos Islands, where they spend time with marine iguanas, sunbathe with sea lions and swim with eagle rays and sharks. You won’t believe your eyes.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Parramatta Eels versus Manly Sea Eagles match, with news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: Sleepless. (2017, MA15+dlv, R) A cop searches for his kidnapped son. Jamie Foxx.
12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
(82) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly. 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. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Indianapolis 500. Qualifying. 10.05 Bewitched. 10.35 Jeannie. 11.05 Young Sheldon. 12.05pm MOVIE: Fighting With My Family. (2019, M) 2.20 Innovation Nation. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. 7.30 House Hunters Australia. A couple search for a retreat in the Blue Mountains. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mhs, R) Celebrity guests include Sigourney Weaver. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
6.00
SATURDAY, May 24
6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) Father Brown investigates a death at a dance school.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Dr Turner and Shelagh are blindsided when May’s future with them is called into question.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) After a cycling competition comes to the village of Burwood Mantle, the race leader is murdered.
10.00 Bergerac. (Mal, R) Bergerac goes rogue with a new lead.
10.45 Reunion. (MA15+l, R) A deaf ex-prisoner seeks revenge. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.40pm Peter Rabbit. 5.50 Hey Duggee: Songs. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids Baking Championship. 8.10 Chopped Junior. 8.50 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar. (Mal, R)
8.25 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses. (Return, PG)
9.30 Alone Australia. (M)
10.35 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (PG, R) 11.05 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)
11.40 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31)
MOVIES (32)
6am After Yang.
Continued. (2021, PG) 7.00 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 8.55 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 10.35 Arctic. (2018, M) 12.25pm Rob The Mob. (2014, M) 2.25 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 4.40 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 6.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 8.30 Ben Is Back. (2018, M) 10.25 Stars At Noon. (2022, MA15+) 12.55am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, May 25
6.30 Compass: The Conclave. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (PG) Hosted by Amanda Keller.
8.30 Bergerac. (Ml) Bergerac’s enemies are gaining momentum and there’s a shocking revelation about the ransom.
9.20 Reunion. (Mlv) Brennan and Carly head to his school reunion, where Brennan meets some old friends.
10.15 MOVIE: Strangerland. (2015, MA15+an, R) Nicole Kidman.
12.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Ml, R)
12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
2.00 The Split. (Ml, R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY
6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (PG, R)
9.15 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PG, R)
10.05 Hindenburg: The Cover Up. (PGa, R)
11.00 Face Down: Killing Of Thomas Niedermayer. (Mal)
12.00 24 Hours In Emergency. (Malm, R)
3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.10 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The Americas: The Caribbean. (PG) Takes a look at sailfish hunt.
8.00 MOVIE: The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (1997, PGv, R) A research team is sent to investigate an island populated by dinosaurs. Jeff Goldblum, Julianne Moore, Pete Postlethwaite. 10.35 MOVIE: Con Air. (1997, MA15+lv, R) A parolee is caught up in a hijacking. Nicolas Cage, John Cusack.
12.55 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGas, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Skyfall. (2012, Mlv, R) M’s past comes back to haunt her. Daniel Craig, Judi Dench.
11.30 MOVIE: Double Impact. (1991, MA15+slv, R)
1.35 Destination WA. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Finding Graceland. Continued. (1998, PG) 6.50 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 8.30 Sissi: The Young Empress. (1956, PG, German) 10.30 Bandit. (2022, M) 12.50pm The Daughter. (2015, M) 2.40 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 4.30 Belle. (2013, PG) 6.30 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 8.30 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 10.55 Alcarràs. (2022, M, Spanish) 1.05am Late Programs.
(64)
6am Morning Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.00 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Unusual Suspects. (Mad) Looks at some unusual suspects.
10.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Baby In The Suitcase. (MA15+adv, R) 11.30 Autopsy USA. (Ma) 12.30 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
Home Shopping. (R)
Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R) 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PGls) 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Ma) 10.10 9News Late. 10.40 See No Evil. (Mav)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A family is feeling cramped in their current home.
8.40 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a house but she wants a Hamptons-style cottage with a pool and he seeks a home with character and a toolshed. 9.40 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems. 10.40 Elsbeth. (Mv, R) 11.40 FBI. (MA15+v, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns.
8.30
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9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, May 26
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo. (PG)
8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Estonia. (PGa, R)
9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Classified. (Mlv)
11.35 Kin. (MA15+dlv, R)
2.30 Along Ireland’s Shores. (PG, R)
3.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. (Premiere) 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Hamlet.
Continued. (1948, PG) 8.35 Belle. (2013, PG) 10.30
Ordinary Happiness. (2019, M, Italian) 12.10pm Ben Is Back. (2018, M) 2.05 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 3.55 Summerland. (2020, PG) 5.50 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 7.50 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 9.30 November. (2022, M, French) 11.30 Clean. (2021, MA15+) 1.10am The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 3.30 Late Programs. 5.40 The Movie Show.
TUESDAY, May 27
(Final, R) 9.40 Australia’s Wild Odyssey. (Final, R)
News. 10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Four Corners. (R) 12.00 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.15 Books That Made Us. (Malv, R) 1.15 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 2.00 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (Mlv)
8.30 Insight.
9.30 The Handmaid’s Tale. (Final, MA15+)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Living Black. (R)
11.30 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)
2.50 Along Ireland’s Shores. (PGa, R)
3.50 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (PG, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal)
8.50 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) The 126 deals with the aftermath of the asteroid crash.
9.50 Code 1: Minute By Minute: The Cronulla Riots. (Malv, R)
10.50 The Agenda Setters. 11.50 Motorway Patrol. (PGa)
12.20 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Premiere, Mal)
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 16. 1.35am Shoresy. 2.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 8.15 The Chaperone. (2018, PG) 10.20 Something’s Gotta Give. (2003, M) 12.40pm November. (2022, M, French) 2.40 Hamlet. (1948, PG) 5.40 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 7.30 The Furnace. (2020, M) 9.40 No Man Of God. (2021, MA15+) 11.35 The Two Faces Of January. (2014, M) 1.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Farmer Jack’s remaining ladies arrive. 8.50 Doc. (Ma) Amy and Jake try to uncover the cause of a unique patient’s worsening condition.
9.50 Accused. (Mad) A wrestling coach goes on trial. 10.50 The Agenda Setters. 11.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R) 12.50 The Act. (MA15+ans, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.
Sunrise Early News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
A Current Affair.
The Floor. (Final, PG) 8.50 100% Footy. (M) 9.50 9News Late.
Aussie Road Train Truckers. (Ml)
Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Mal)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
WEDNESDAY, May 28
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2024. (Malns, R)
9.10 The Day The Rock Star Died: Michael Hutchence. (Ma, R)
9.40 The Handmaid’s Tale. (Final, MA15+, R)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 My Brilliant Friend. (Mals)
12.15 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Malv, R)
3.35 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R) 4.30 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6pm Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGal, R)
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
11.00 Born To Kill? (MA15+av, R)
12.00 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am The Movie
Show. 6.15 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 8.05 Summerland. (2020, PG) 10.00 The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 12.20pm We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 2.00 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 4.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 5.55 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 7.55 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.30 Sin City. (2005, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs.
THURSDAY, May 29
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Storage Wars: NY. 11.00 Storage Wars.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. State of Origin. Game 1. Queensland v New South Wales.
10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. A post-match wrap-up of Game 1. 11.00 9News Late.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic. (Final, PGa) 9.35 The Kimberley. (Final, R)
ABC Late News.
The Business. (R)
Love Your Garden. (R) 11.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 12.30 Rage. (PG) 1.25 Vera. (Mv, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Our Medicine. (Premiere, PG)
8.40 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley. (Premiere, PGad)
9.40 Sherlock & Daughter. (Mav)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Carmen Curlers. (Mas, R)
1.20 Pagan Peak. (MA15+as, R)
3.05 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R)
4.05 Life In Bloom. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Cash is offered a clean slate.
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa) A family’s dog proves a disruptive influence.
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) The fourth set of semi-finalists sets out to impress the judges and viewers at home.
10.30 The Amazing Race. (PG)
12.00 Raines. (Mahv)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. Women’s State of Origin. Game 3. New South Wales v Queensland.
6am Children’s Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 9.25 Saved By The Barn. 10.05 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Inside The Superbrands. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 Young Sheldon. 11.30 Golden Girls. Noon MOVIE: Licorice Pizza. (2021, M) 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 Thirteen. (2007,
Join us on this most ambitious, fully guided adventure of our last frontier. Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge,
(2015, PG, German) 10.00 The Furnace. (2020, M) 12.10pm The Two Faces Of January. (2014, M) 2.00 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir. (2018, PG) 3.50 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 5.40 December Boys. (2007, PG) 7.40
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns. 8.40 Elsbeth. (Mdv) A young man is found dead in his car. 9.40 FBI: International. (Mv)
6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Dukes Of Hazzard. (2005, M) 10.40 Late Programs.
PORT STEPHENS
Thursday, 22 May 2025
Marlins promoted
By Chris KARAS
Other Nelson Bay players to impress include Jayden BaldwinRymer, Matthew Blyth, Adam Grant, Tim Anderson, Jake Voyzey, Mitchell Hall, Rowan Connick, Louis Dews, Mark Spencer, Andrew Riley, Zane Grant, Sean McGrath and Beau Redman.
All three victories were achieved at the club’s home base at Dick Burwell Oval at Tomaree Sports Complex.
THE Nelson Bay Marlins have been promoted to the 2025 AFL Hunter Central Coast Seniors Black Diamond Cup men's competition.
After dominating the early rounds of the Black Diamond Men's Plate series with thumping victories in excess of 100 points, the talented Marlins will step up a class for the remainder of the season.
With prolific goalscoring skipper Billy Barton leading the way, the Nelson Bay club posted crushing victories over Cardiff Hawks (2191), Singleton Roosters (153-7) and the Maitland Saints (212-12) in their three Plate matches before being drafted into the top level.
The Marlins compiled a staggering 86 goals and conceded just a mere three with superboot Barton contributing an impressive individual tally of 30 goals.
This included a haul of 15 goals in the opening round demolition of Cardiff.
Nelson Bay’s first assignment in the eight team Black Diamond Cup series was against The Entrance Bateau Bay Blues at Bateau Bay Oval.
Meanwhile, the Nelson Bay senior women's team have chalked up two victories and two losses from their opening four fixtures in the Black Diamond Plate Women's competition.
The Marlins defeated Cardiff Hawks (40-14) and The Entrance Bateau Bay (94-0) before succumbing to Lake Macquarie Dockers (50-29) and Newcastle City Blues (48-25) in recent weeks to remain in the top five.
Nelson Bay women's players to shine include Catalina Labra-knox, Sophie Elliott, Chaeli Callaghan, Ellie Duffy, Tori Borg, Amy Steele, Tara Maguire, Liana Sostarko, Mackenzie Roche, Charlotte Connick, Olivia Feldman, Scarlett Lack, Aimee Dove, Mikaela Burrows, Michelle Maricic and Evangeline Hol.
q The Nelson Bay Marlins men's AFL team has been promoted. Photo: courtesy Mat Spillard Photography.