Port Stephens News Of The Area 6 MARCH 2025

YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS

Clean Up Australia Day a success across Port Stephens

the Trotters clean up.

FROM Page 1

weekend’s clean-up, with many registering on the Clean Up Australia Day website.

School students could be seen in their uniforms on Friday, helping to tidy up the Salamander Bay shopping area.

Other groups followed suit over the weekend, including a group at Bagnalls Beach and the Fingal Bay based running group The Tomaree Trotters.

Gary Lucas organised the Trotters event, splitting teams into pairs armed with bags, gloves and heaps of community spirit.

“We all spend so much time out and about in this absolute paradise but we are not blind to the presence of far too much litter,” said Gary.

“This was an opportunity to do something about it and make our paradise even cleaner."

From 7am to 8.30am on Sunday, the Trotters covered trails and tracks from Barry Park to Zenith Beach as well as Fingal Beach itselfclocking a distance of over

55kms between them.

A huge amount of rubbish was collected, which included discarded beach towels and clothing, fishing gear, tennis balls, lighters, bottles and cans and several assorted plastic items - all destined to end up in the marine environment.

The Rotary Club of Medowie-Williamtown along with the many Rotary clubs across the Lower Hunter, was keen to assist.

Over two hours, members filled their bags with rubbish from within a 5km radius of the Medowie shopping centre.

Cans, bottle tops, coffee cups, paper lunch bags, very crumpled street signs and quantities of bubble wrap, unread newspapers and much more were collected.

Past District Governor Helen Ryan said, “We felt that this was a great way of participating in the community and helping to keep our beautiful country as tidy as possible, as well as [enjoying] the teamwork and social interaction."

Over 22 million Aussies

have taken part in the event over the years by pulling on their gloves and donating their time to improve the environment.

Registration for Clean Up Australia Day is free for communities and schools via cleanup.org.au/ cleanupaustraliaday.

q Fingal Point after rubbish was removed.

q Fingal Point before

Anna Bay residents gather against ‘unacceptable’ rezoning

FROM Page 1 residences.

At a meeting on Wednesday 19 February, convened by the South Tomaree Community Association, Tanya Martin addressed around 130 residents to outline significant concerns.

“We don’t differ from the area’s many stakeholders on the importance of affordable housing,” she said.

“Our concerns instead relate to developments that have unacceptable likely impacts.”

The proposal in question was submitted to council in 2023 by developer AB Rise.

It sought the subdivision of four lots on Gan Gan Road into 47 Torrens Title lots, which would then be developed into a new housing estate.

This DA was refused by Port Stephens Council staff who cited 18 issues with the proposal including inconsistencies with Council objectives and inadequate details regarding environmental impacts.

Residents were informed

at the meeting that the developer subsequently appealed the decision at the NSW Land and Environment Court, which led to a confidential conciliation process with Port Stephens Council staff.

The concern over this process, expressed at the community meeting, is that it has effectively sidelined local residents and representatives, making them feel that their

concerns are going unheard.

“There was an onsite hearing with representatives from the community raising our concerns, but in hindsight, it’s hard to see it as anything more than lip service,” an STCA representative said.

“What confidence does that give the community for the next phase of the development or for any future development in Port

“Is this another Lagoons Estate? " Another failed

Anna Bay Resort?”

The issues raised at the meeting largely align with the reasons Council staff gave in originally denying the DA.

These include the highly increased risk of flooding to neighbouring lots; adverse impacts to local biodiversity and wildlife habitat; and the significant logistical challenges of raising 125 ha by a further three metres.

“Assuming three metres of

fill across 584 blocks, without even considering the access roads and other fill needs such as footpaths, it equates to 1.2million cubic metres of fill,” Ms Martin said.

“This is 120,000 truck loads.”

“With 50 trucks a day, it would take 2400 days or sixpoint-five years.”

“Apart from the disruption and noise pollution, the infrastructure costs would likely reduce any chance of it being affordable housing.”

Ryan Falkenmire, Section Manager Development and

Compliance for Port Stephens Council said, “The decision regarding the Development Application for 263 Gan Gan Road has not yet been finalised.

“While the hearing has taken place, the final decision remains pending as it must be formally signed by the court.

“Until this process is complete, the decision is not considered final.

“Once the decision is finalised relevant stakeholders will be notified.”

Representatives of the developer were contacted but did not respond to requests for comment.

Home approvals on the decline

NEW Australian Bureau of Statistics figures indicate that total home approvals fell by eight percent in the Hunter and 34 percent on the Central Coast in 2024 compared to the 2023 calendar year.

“There were a total of 4,808 building approvals across the Hunter in 2024 and 1,052 on the Central Coast,” said Craig Jennion, Housing Industry Australia (HIA) Hunter Executive Director.

“Combined, this is 14 percent weaker than in 2023, and 19 percent lower than the pre-Covid year of 2018.

“Detached house approvals in the Hunter were steady with an increase of eight dwellings or zero percent change in the 2024 calendar year.”

Across the region, Lake Macquarie saw the strongest growth in detached house approvals, up by 35 percent compared to 2023.

This was followed by Maitland (up eight percent), Scone (up seven percent) and Singleton (up six percent.

“Declines were recorded in all other Hunter LGAs with Port Stephens down

52 percent, followed by Newcastle (down 34 percent), Muswellbrook (down 21 percent) and Cessnock (down 20 percent).”

Multi-unit approvals decreased in the Hunter, falling 19 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.

“Declines were the greatest in Newcastle (down 37 percent), Cessnock (down 33 percent) and Lake Macquarie (down 14 percent).

“Pleasingly growth occurred in Maitland (plus 29

percent) and Port Stephens (up six percent).”

According to the data, much of the heavy lifting for the residential sector continues to occur in the local government areas of Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Central Coast, Newcastle and Cessnock.

These top five locations for approvals accounted for 87 percent of total approvals.

“Detached homes remained the preference for home buyers, with the Hunter increasing five percent to account for 63.25 percent of

total approvals, while on the Central Coast it increased by 16 percent to 66 percent of all approvals,” Mr Jennion said.

“The value of approved major renovations and

alterations was overall steady in 2024.

“In the Hunter approvals increased by three percent to $314.8 million, while on the Central Coast the value decreased by five percent to $157.3 million.”

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Stephens?

q Anna Bay residents gathered at Gateway Presbyterian Church to air concerns over the proposed housing development. Photo: Tanya Martin.

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Further honours for Pearl

KARUAH’S Pearl Manton has been named the Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year 2025 for her outstanding contributions to local sport and community engagement.

The Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate women who make a difference through leadership, advocacy, and service.

Through her commitment to her community, Pearl exemplifies each of these attributes.

This year, 93 women have been nominated by their local MPs to be acknowledged during NSW Women’s Week (2-8 March); an annual week-long celebration of women in NSW through a program of activities that empower women and promote gender equality.

Pearl was nominated for the award by Port Stephens MP Kate Washington in recognition of her dedication to strengthening local sporting opportunities and fostering community spirit.

Despite living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Pearl continues to be a passionate and active leader, demonstrating resilience and determination in all that she does.

Earlier this year, she was named the 2025 Port Stephens Council Sportsperson of the Year.

As the founder and a leader of the Karuah Pearls Netball Club, Pearl has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for young athletes, promoting teamwork, resilience, and connection.

She has mentored and supported countless players, ensuring they develop both their sporting skills and their confidence.

Pearl also works closely with families and local organisations to break down barriers to participation, making sport accessible and welcoming for all children.

She said she was humbled by the recognition.

“I want to use this as a way to highlight the importance of sports and community in a small town like Karuah,” Pearl said.

“I have MS, my way of thinking is I never know what is going to happen tomorrow, you don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring, you have to take all opportunities that come your way.

“My coaching style is to create opportunities to see our players grow.

“It’s about teamwork,

participation, and inclusion of all abilities.”

Ms Washington said Pearl’s impact on the community is impressive.

“I’ve loved watching the Karuah Pearls Netball Club grow, build and become a beautiful community.

“Through Pearl’s caring and inclusive approach, there are children and families enjoying sport, improving their health and wellbeing and building a stronger Karuah.

“Pearl is not just helping

kids play netball—she’s creating connections, building confidence and brighter futures.

“This award is about recognising those women who go about their work quietly, creating lasting change – Pearl Manton fits this bill perfectly.”

Each Local Woman of the Year award recipient will receive their certificates at the 2025 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 6 March.

Recipients who volunteer and live in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW will also be added to the 2024 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll; a public tribute to recognise the vast number of women who volunteer their time and energy to help others.

you know the NSW Government offers energy rebates to help families pay their electricity and gas bills?

could be eligible if you receive the Family Tax Benefit or hold a Health Care Card, Low Income Health Care Card or Veteran Gold Card.

q Port Stephens MP Kate Washington and Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year Pearl Manton.

Feasibility licence offered for offshore wind project

q The Equinor and Oceanex project is proposed for the southern end of the declared zone, around 20 kilometres off the coast, predominantly off Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the southern end of Port Stephens.

By Douglas CONNOR

THE Federal Government is pushing forwards with its plan to develop an offshore wind industry in the Hunter region, with a feasibility licence officially offered to the Novocastrian Offshore Wind Farm project.

The project, by Equinor and Oceanex Energy, was offered a preliminary feasibility licence in June 2024.

The Equinor and Oceanex project is proposed for the southern end of the declared zone, around 20 kilometres off the coast, predominantly off Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and the southern end of Port Stephens.

The project is expected to employ around 3,000 workers during construction and create around 200–300 permanent local jobs.

Proponents say the offshore wind farm has the potential to generate over two gigawatts (GW) of electricity, equivalent to powering 1.2 million homes or two Tomago smelters.

Feasibility licences are issued for seven years, with proponents required to consult with communities, undertake environmental assessments and seek approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Proponents can then apply for commercial licences to build their offshore wind projects.

Feasibility licence holders must develop a management plan to cover the entire proposed project.

This plan must address a range of issues including consultation with existing marine users, fishers,

local communities, First Nations groups and relevant government entities.

The Government is establishing industry committees for the Hunter zone to “secure lasting economic and social benefits for local communities”.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen says the offshore wind industry will secure Australia’s energy future.

“We’re fixing the broken offshore wind plan left behind by the Coalition to ensure communities reap the full social and economic benefits of this burgeoning industry,” he said.

“Offshore wind has huge potential for jobs, new industry, and clean, reliable renewable energy in the regions which have powered Australia for generations.

“But establishing an industry will take time.”

In a joint statement, retiring Lyne MP Dr David Gillespie and Nationals candidate for Lyne Alison Penfold, said the decision to offer the feasibility licence shows “contempt” for the communities of Port Stephens and the Myall Coast.

The pair described the project as “utter madness”.

“Offshore wind farms harm marine wildlife, wreck commercial fishing waters and will not make a reliable and affordable contribution to the future energy needs of the nation,” they said.

“It’s simply bad for local communities, bad for tourism, commercial and recreational fishers, bad for the environment and bad for energy security.”

Representatives of the local fishing community have called the granting of the licence a “kick in the guts”.

“Chris Bowen's choice to issue this licence on a Friday afternoon, just days or weeks before an election is called, is an act of cowardice from a

Minister obviously wanting to avoid criticism of his actions,” said Troy Radford, President of the Newcastle and Port Stephens Game Fish Club.

“Energy Minister Chris Bowen has pushed ahead with this project despite widespread opposition and a complete lack of genuine consultation with the people and businesses that will be most affected.

“From the beginning, the people of Port Stephens and Myall Coast have made their concerns clearenvironmental risks, threats to our local fishing and tourism industries, and the lack of transparency in the process.”

The fishing group has demanded the process be halted until “genuine, meaningful consultation takes place”.

The Hunter Jobs Alliance (HJA) meanwhile has welcomed the announcement.

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Equinor to maximise local job opportunities, support regional supply chains, encourage manufacturing, implement best-practice environmental mitigation strategies, and deliver substantial

FRY BROS

community benefits for our region,” said Justin Page, HJA Coordinator.

“The establishment of a Hunter Wind Industry Committee comprising Novocastrian Wind, NSW and local governments, First Nations groups, local industry and workers’ representatives is a fantastic step forward.

“It will ensure that we fully capitalise on local content opportunities, create jobs, and unlock further economic benefits for the

Hunter.”

Mr Page said he strongly supports the “responsible development” of offshore wind in the Hunter.

“It’s unfortunate that the issue has been politicised, but voters now have a clear choice: a clean energy future or a nuclear future that will never materialise.”

He also remains optimistic about the project’s timeframes and potential for job creation.

“With the issuance of

the feasibility license, this offshore wind project will begin creating local jobs during the five to seven year feasibility phase,” Mr Page said.

“Hundreds more will be generated during the construction phase and ongoing operations and maintenance.

“We could see offshore wind generation in place within the next five to seven years.”

Photo: AP Photo, David Goldman.

Sanderling Avenue development declared state significant

By Douglas CONNOR

A CONTROVERSIAL proposal

for a large-scale apartment complex on Sanderling Avenue, Hawks Nest has been declared a State Significant Development (SSD), potentially fast-tracking its delivery.

The Hawks Nest development was one of 18 housing proposals across NSW the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces declared an SSD last week, following recommendations from the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA).

The proposal includes three residential flat buildings, with an estimated 103 dwellings.

The HDA was established in December 2024 by the State Government to “speed up the assessment of welllocated major residential projects”.

It gives project proponents access to a “new streamlined concurrent assessment and rezoning pathway”, bypassing council approvals.

The HDA is now accepting expressions of interest for major residential

developments above $60 million in metropolitan areas and $30 million in regional NSW.

“The authority is prioritising high-quality housing projects with detailed plans that can be submitted within nine months and can begin construction within 12 months of approval,” the State Government said in a statement last week.

“All proposals declared as an SSD will have their development applications assessed by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

“Without needing to be approved by councils, this can cut approval times and speed up the delivery of new homes.”

Core Property Developments Pty Ltd and Leric Group Pty Ltd are the proponents of the development.

They are being assisted in their application by Tattersall Lander Pty Ltd, a development consultancy based at Raymond Terrace.

Tattersall Lander coowner Bob Lander told NOTA the SSD declaration was a “proactive move by the NSW

Government and the Minister for Planning”.

“I think it is a really good outcome,” he said.

Mr Lander confirmed the developers are currently working towards a DA lodgement, and said the HDA had indicated a processing turnaround on applications of 276 days.

Despite the change in approval pipeline, Mr Lander said the process would be transparent.

“This isn't an application

that just gets hidden away inside the Department of Planning, it is actually quite transparent.

“It is exactly the same sort of process that it goes through with Council and the Regional Planning Panel, however in this case there is a time limit on approval times.”

In terms of consultation, MidCoast Council said it is provided the “same opportunity to comment on the proposal as any other member of the community”, however noted that “assessment of the application will be undertaken by the NSW Minister for Planning or the Independent Planning Commission if required”.

The Department of Planning website indicates all applications for SSDs will be publicly exhibited for a minimum of 28 days (longer if the exhibition overlaps with the Christmas/New Year period).

Surrounding residents will be notified in writing, however the notification area varies depending on the scope of the proposal.

For exhibitions commencing on or after 1 April 2024, all submissions for SSD applications must be made online through the

NSW Planning Portal during the exhibition period.

To make a submission, visit https://www. planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ major-projects.

Sanderling Avenue gained national attention in 2021 when ABC program Four Corners featured the proposal in a story suggesting disgraced former Labor Minister and convicted felon Eddie Obeid was involved in a string of developments along the Mid North Coast.

The land in question was sold to developers by the Karuah Aboriginal Land Council in 2018.

In April 2021, MidCoast Council voted to change the zoning from RE1 Public Recreation to R3 Medium Density Residential, increasing the maximum permissible height of building on the subject land from 8.5m to 12m, amongst other changes.

In June of that year, MidCoast Council entered into a planning agreement with Core Property director Luke Goodwin and Leric Group director Merwin Ibrahim.

The developers, who were seeking an amendment to the Great Lakes Local

Environment Plan 2014 (LEP) for their project to proceed, offered a contribution of $127,800 to Council.

The funds, which would have been due prior to a construction certificate being granted, were to be paid towards the recovery and long-term management of the Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens koala population; improvements to Providence Park and works to the Micheal Rowe Walk; and improvements to the Hawks Nest Surf Club building and/ or the provision of surf lifesaving equipment.

Fast forward four years and prospective buyers are being invited to register their interest online for the “Hawks Nest Beachside Apartments”.

“Nestled in the pristine beach side town of Hawks Nest, this architecturally designed development of residential and holiday apartments offers a rare opportunity to secure your nest by the sea,” the development website states.

“This stunning beach side location will capture the magical and soothing sounds of waves breaking on pure white sand.”

Town of the Year

By Lindsay HALL

THE people who call Port Stephens home have long held the notion that they live in paradise.

That belief has been ratified by Wotif, which has named the East Coast destination Town of the Year for 2025.

For eight years, the online travel booking platform has been curating a Top 10 list of top Aussie holiday destinations, called “Towns of the Year”.

Travel Expert Rebecca Hurley said, “2025 promises to be an exciting year for domestic travel, with Aussies increasingly choosing to explore their own backyard.

“Port Stephens, with its unbeatable natural beauty and growing popularity, is truly deserving of this recognition.

“We’re seeing an exciting shift towards short breaks, and Port Stephens is the perfect place for a quick, memorable getaway.”

Labor Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said in her monthly newsletter, “Well, can I say I'm not surprised.”

“We all knew it was the best place to live, but now the cat's out of the bag.

“I am so proud to represent this community, and glad to see it being recognised for the incredible piece of paradise that it is.”

The presentation of the number one spot on the Wotif list was marked by a visit from Channel 9’s Today show with weather presenter Tim Davies filming a segment at the Nelson Bay Marina.

Marketing Manager for Port Stephens Packaging Kerri Rodley was in attendance and

said the win was no surprise.

“I mean how hard is it? We have the best beaches, the best bush walks, the best wildlife and the best tourism operators.”

Jo Thomas, CEO of Destination Port Stephens, expressed her excitement.

“We are absolutely delighted to be named Wotif’s 2025 Aussie Town of the Year!”

“This recognition is testament to everything that makes Port Stephens so special.

“From our stunning landscapes to the warm and welcoming community.

“We are so proud to share our beautiful region with visitors and can't wait to welcome even more travellers this year.”

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson agreed.

“From the beautiful hinterland to our rural west, to our amazing sand dunes, right through to our stunning beaches and waterways in the east, Port Stephens has it all.”

“Congratulations to all of our tourism, hospitality, local businesses and accommodation providers.”

RFS given continued access to RAAF Williamtown

THE Federal Government will ensure the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has access to RAAF Base Williamtown to support aerial firefighting operations, with an extension to the current agreement through to 2029.

“This agreement will ensure the NSW RFS can continue to protect the local communities and our environment through aerial firefighting operations facilitated from these Defence bases,” the Government said in a statement.

The NSW Rural Fire Service is the world’s largest volunteer fire service, providing fire and emergency services to approximately 95 percent of NSW.

Defence has supported the NSW Rural Fire Service by providing access to Defence sites over the past decade.

“This commitment provides important certainty for the RFS and supports their critical work to keep Australians and communities safe from bushfires,” said Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy.

“This relationship goes to the heart of the concepts of national defence and resilience, as outlined in the National Defence Strategy, by bolstering the NSW Rural Fire Service’s ability to respond to natural disasters.

“It is a further demonstration of the outcomes that can be achieved through greater partnerships between the Commonwealth, states, territories and industry.”

q Tim Davies (Today Show), Jo Thomas (CEO Destination Port Stephens), Rebecca Hurley (Director Brand Marketing Expedia Group), and Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson. Photo: Jo Thomas.

CareFlight expands operations in Newcastle

CAREFLIGHT has announced Newcastle Airport as a permanent aircraft base for its operations, building on the patient transport service launched at the airport in 2018.

A permanently based turbo-prop aircraft and jet will now enhance the aeromedical charity’s capability to provide lifesaving patient transport services to and from the region.

The aircraft support CareFlight’s patient transport services operated with NSW Health, as well as national and international medevac services.

In addition to giving the CareFlight team a larger geographic reach and faster service capabilities, the expansion will deliver new jobs to the region with employment opportunities for local staff, including nurses, pilots and engineers.

CareFlight patient transport vehicles are also based in Newcastle, staffed by local drivers and specially trained nurses, providing patient transport between the aircraft and hospital.

CareFlight’s operational teams work 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide support for the aircraft.

CareFlight’s Operations

Centre and specialist teams are equipped to provide logistical support and coordination throughout the patient’s journey.

CareFlight CEO Mick Frewen said continuous improvement and service innovation in healthcare is at the heart of the not-forprofit organisation’s mission to save lives and serve the community.

“Newcastle is an ideal geographic base for patient transport services for residents in Northern and North-Western NSW, as well as for CareFlight’s Air Ambulance services in the Pacific region,” Mr Frewen said.

“We’re delighted to be improving the service we provide with NSW Health, giving patients from regional areas greater access to the very best level of healthcare to meet their needs, while ensuring they are transported with the highest standards of patient care and safety.”

CareFlight’s Patient Transport Service (PTS) operates as part of NSW Health’s integrated high and low acuity transport system. It provides a lifeline for many patients from regional and rural communities in Northern NSW.

NSW Health coordinates

patient movements with CareFlight’s HelpPoint logistics team.

The addition of a permanently based aeromedical King Air turboprop aeroplane in Newcastle enhances CareFlight’s capacity to provide vital patient transport for the community.

The service transports patients needing specialist treatment and procedures that are not available locally.

Once they have had the treatment or procedure, they are then flown back to their local hospital to recover.

The Newcastle-based aircraft will increase the efficiency of the service and its capacity to readily transport patients from regional and rural NSW to and from John Hunter Hospital, as well as specialist hospital facilities in Sydney.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley highlighted the significant impact the expansion will have on the region.

"Now we’ve got a dedicated plane for regional NSW patient transport and a jet air ambulance for both local and international medevac services, meaning faster care for those who need it most,” she said.

"The NSW Government

is excited to see CareFlight’s new service take off, adding to the other great healthcare improvements we have already.”

Additional patient transport vehicles and

q

Thursday.

crews are also strategically located at major regional centres in Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth and Armidale, to support those major centres and surrounding communities.

The B400 BeechjetNextant jet now based in Newcastle forms part of CareFlight’s Air Ambulance service capability, operating throughout Australia, Asia and the Pacific.

The service transports patients who are abroad and need to be brought home for medical treatment, as well as transports Australians interstate when they are sick or injured and the critical treatment they need, isn’t available locally.

The Newcastle-based operation has also benefited from further improvements thanks to more than

$1 million in charitable donations from CareFlight’s

national and local supporter base.

“To all those generous donors, we really cannot thank you enough,” Mr Frewen said.

“Each contribution plays a significant part in enabling our team to enhance the service and vital healthcare provided to patients.”

Newcastle Airport Interim CEO Andrew Warrender said it was a privilege for the airport to support such an important community institution as CareFlight.

“The move to establish a permanent aircraft base at the airport supports our mission to be the airport our region deserves and marks a new chapter in our ongoing partnership with CareFlight to enhance the quality and reach of medical care available,” Mr Warrender said.

by Mike Yarrington 67 Thomas Coke Drive, Thornton NSW 2322

Politicians, CareFlight and airport representatives at the announcement on

q Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley.

Office established for Tomaree Lodge progress

A NEW on-site office has been established at Tomaree Lodge, with two site officers recruited to staff it.

Located near the site's entrance in Cottage 11, the officers will oversee operations, enhance community safety and support visitors.

They will officially take up their roles in March 2025.

The office will also serve as a hub for keeping the community informed about the latest developments for Tomaree Lodge.

"The new on-site office and dedicated staff will provide a stronger presence at Tomaree Lodge, improving safety, supporting visitors, and keeping locals informed as planning progresses,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the community to secure the best possible future for this treasured site.”

Mayor of Port Stephens and chair of the Tomaree Lodge Community Engagement

Committee, Leah Anderson said having a dedicated on-site presence will help ensure the site is “safe, welcoming, and well cared for”.

“I’m proud to be working with our community and the NSW Government to help shape a plan that reflects local priorities and protects this iconic place for generations to come."

In a statement to media last week, the NSW Government said it “remains committed to repurposing the site for public use and recreation while respecting its cultural history and environmental significance”.

Late last year, six local

Port Stephens residents were appointed to provide a community voice to the NSW Government Steering Committee throughout the development of the master plan for the site.

The Steering Committee includes representatives from the Department of Communities and Justice, National Parks and Wildlife Services, Create NSW, Department of Planning, Housing & Infrastructure and NSW Fisheries, along with Port Stephens Council.

Local planning firm SHAC has been commissioned to lead the concept master planning of the site.

Plans on exhibition for Medowie high school

PLANS to build a new public high school in Medowie are progressing, with the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) now open for public exhibition until 30 March 2025.

The Department of Education acquired 6.6 hectares of land at 6 Abundance Road, Medowie last year to build Medowie’s first public high school.

Scheduled to open day one of Term 1 2027, the school will include modern classrooms, a library, a school hall, outdoor play and sports areas, and administration facilities.

The REF assesses the potential environmental impacts which could arise from the development of the new facilities.

During the exhibition

period, community members are invited to review the proposal and provide feedback.

Details can be accessed via the NSW Planning Portal.

Due to Medowie’s rapid population expansion, Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the school was a “critical step in ensuring every child has access to a quality public education close to home”.

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said, “This is a huge milestone

for Medowie, and I encourage the community to have their say on this important project.

"This project is a vital investment in the future of our growing community and I’m proud to be part of this transformative development.

"This new high school will not only meet the demands of a growing population but will also create an inspiring space for learning and innovation.

“I look forward to seeing it become a hub for future generations of students."

Urgent care clinic pledged for Maitland

BOTH Labor and Liberal parties have promised to deliver an urgent care clinic (UCC) in Maitland if successful at the 2025 Federal election.

Medicare UCCs provide urgent health care in a general practice setting.

Urgent care is when you need medical attention for an illness or injury that can be managed without a trip to the emergency department, but cannot wait for a regular appointment with a GP.

UCCs provide acute episodic care and treatment that does not require a hospital admission.

Labor has pledged to deliver the facility in Maitland as part of a $644 million commitment to open another 50 UCCs nationwide.

Once all of Labor’s clinics are open, four out of five Australians will live within a 20-minute drive of a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, the government says.

Labor said the Maitland clinic would begin operating in the 2025-26 financial year, providing bulk billed care for urgent but nonlife-threatening conditions, seven days a week, for extended hours, and with no appointment needed.

“At this election Australia

faces a choice: a stronger Medicare with more bulk billing for all Australians under Labor, or more cuts to Medicare under Peter Dutton's Liberals,” said Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson.

“Only Labor will deliver a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Maitland.”

The Liberals on the other hand claim that Maitland is yet to receive a UCC due to being “taken for granted by Labor”.

“Labor has had three years to secure an Urgent Care Clinic for Paterson, but they have failed to deliver,” Liberal candidate for Paterson Laurence Antcliff said.

“After the last election, Hunter, Shortland, and Newcastle all received Urgent Care Clinics, but Paterson was left behind – I will make that right.”

Independent candidate for Paterson Philip Penfold, the current Mayor of Maitland, said he was glad the major parties were “now onboard” with a UCC for Maitland.

“I’m very disappointed to see Port Stephens is again ignored by the parties on this though.”

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COACH

Art Prize exhibition to open

By Simon EKINS

A NEW gallery exhibition with over 350 artworks is about to open at Port Stephens Community Arts Centre.

Works cover the themes of painting, mixed media, miniatures, photography and earth and fibre.

Entries have been received from far and wide to add to the contributions of local artists.

Following the Official Opening on Friday 14 March, the exhibition will be open

10am to 4pm until 22 March, and will close at 1pm on Sunday 23 March.

The garden café will be open on Saturday 15 March and Sunday 16 March, serving tea, coffee, scones and light snacks.

Many local businesses have sponsored the exhibition.

Nada O’Loughlin-Yonge, event co-ordinator, said, “This is a major fundraising enterprise for our centre, and the support of these businesses has enabled us to offer a prize pool of over

$12,000.

“Judging of the categories for Painting, Mixed Media, Port Stephens Council Residents, and Miniatures will be done by Gillean Shaw, Art Curator for the University of Newcastle Galleries.

“Anne Kempton of Timeless Textiles Gallery in Newcastle will judge the Earth and Fibre category, and Roger Skinner, an acclaimed photographer from Muswellbrook, will judge the Photography category.

“Judges will select those they consider most worthy

of awards, and visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work.

“The winner of the People’s Choice award will receive $250, generously donated by Nelson Bay Bowling Club.”

Other sponsors are Nelson Bay Real Estate, Port Stephens Council, Love Oil, Curtis and Blair Real Estate, Kate Washington MP, Meryl Swanson MP, Nicki and Nigel Waters, Port Stephens Rentals, Salamander Bay Rotary Club, The Original Tea Gardens Ferry, Platinum

q Event organiser Nada O'Loughlin-Yonge.

All exhibition works will be available for purchase, along with the regular hand-made arts and crafts in the gallery rooms.

Port Stephens Community Arts Centre is located in Cultural Close, off Shoal Bay Road, Nelson Bay

q Some of the artworks that were on display in the 2023 exhibition.

Dental, Lion Studios, Better Photography Magazine, Len’s Journal, Salamander Village Florist, Bunnings, and Woolworths.

School leaders recognised

HUNDREDS of student leaders from across Port Stephens filled the Tomaree High School Hall on Monday, 17 February for Kate Washington MP’s annual school leaders morning tea.

The Member for Port Stephens has held the school leaders morning tea annually since 2019.

Ms Washington designed the event to recognise the students selected to lead their schools, to give them a chance to think about what leadership looks like and to meet one another.

Student leaders from every public and independent, primary and secondary school in Port Stephens attended (except Anna Bay PS, which had a swimming carnival clash).

More than 200 students from 32 schools alongside their principals and/or senior teachers attended.

Proceedings began with a powerful Acknowledgement of Country by Tomaree High School’s Cultural Group, followed by a stunning performance by year 12 student Reannah Hyland.

Guest speaker at the event was Billy “the Kid” Dib, a two time world champion boxer, father, stomach cancer survivor, and now a published author.

Billy inspired the students with his life story of overcoming adversity, struggling with chronic asthma from a young age, the setbacks of struggling to read and the difference a caring teacher can make.

Billy’s key message of the day was to believe in yourself, dream big and never give up.

He also highlighted the

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importance of young people showing their emotions and reaching out for help when they need it.

Tomaree High School’s

Foreshore Café, run by support unit students and staff, catered the day in style.

Special guests included NSW Police representatives

Superintendent Commander Wayne Humphrey, Inspector David Donovan and Sgt Leanne Mann.

“I love holding this event

The Big Screen

in a sentence, Vol. 3!

Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho (Parasite) teams with Robert Pattinson, Toni Collette and Mark Ruffalo to present Mickey 17, a sci-fi black comedy in which a desperate man seeks a minimum-wage life on another planet which requires him to be cloned any time he is killed in the course of his work.

A dramedy from British director Mike Leigh, Hard Truths explores the struggles of a working class mother (Marianne Jean-Baptiste)

MEET

whose depression and anxiety have made her acerbic to all she encounters, including her long-suffering yet optimistic sister IMichele Austin).

Keke Palmer, SZA and Katt Williams star in One of Them Days, an over-the-top buddy comedy about best friends on the poverty line who have one day to find money to pay their rent after a boyfriend absconds with all their cash, only to find absurd obstacles at every turn.

The Spanish comedy

La cocina (The Kitchen) is an adaptation of a 1957 stage-play focused on the relationships between immigrant kitchen staff in a hectic New York restaurant and the white staff who are the public face of the business.

My Melbourne is a home-grown anthology film comprising four stories from filmmakers of Indian heritage who tackle themes of race, gender, disability and the ways in which people search for belonging.

The romantic comedy Ex Ex Lovers comes from the

every year because I can see the impact it has on our very impressive local student leaders,” Ms Washington said.

“The event this year

was really special, with Tomaree High School being a brilliant host school and Billy Dib inspiring every single student, principal and

teacher in the hall.

“I congratulate all of our 2025 student school leaders and hope that they’ve now got the fuel they need to succeed.”

Filipino filmmaker JP Habac and follows the efforts of Joy who travels to Malta to ask Ced, her ex, if he would be willing to walk their daughter down the aisle at her wedding, only to find that there may still be a spark between them.

Actor David Wenham brings back one of his surprisingly enduring characters in Johnny Spitieri for Spit, a sequel to 2003’s Aussie comic crime caper Gettin’ Square, in which the somewhat reformed junkie returns to our shores and, in his unique way, attempts to “give back to the community”.

Japanese anime The

LAURENCE, ANNA BAY LOCAL

Colours Within blends highschool drama with art-house visuals as a young girl, who sees people and sounds in the form of vibrant colours, forms a band with classmates who are also trying to express themselves.

Though set amidst the deceptive glamour of Hollywood, Every Little Thing is from Australian documentarian Sally Aitken, who follows a woman named Terry Masear as she aids in the recovery of injured hummingbirds, only to find that her patients are helping her to heal her own heart.

Faith-based film outfit Angel Studios present the

biopic Bonhoeffer, an all too fast-moving overview of the life of one of the 20th Century’s most influential Christian theologians - a German pastor whose final years were spent embroiled in efforts to assassinate Hitler. Similar to the way Bollywood films insert songand-dance into any genre, the Hong Kong film Hit N Fun proves that in the right hands, kung fu fights can be inserted into even the most lighthearted of dramedies; in this case a washed-up actress and her business associate training for an exhibition match in the hopes of reigniting her flagging career.

Laurence Antcliff knows Port Stephens because it’s where his story began. He grew up in Anna Bay, the son of Russell and Therese, and attended St Michael’s Primary School in Nelson Bay. Now, he’s raising his own family in Chisholm and, like so many locals, wants to see real action on the issues that matter—stopping the offshore wind farms, relieving cost of living, and fixing local roads.

With over a decade of leadership at the Housing Industry Association, Laurence has worked with 450 apprentices and 250 small businesses, helping young people get into trades and supporting local construction businesses. He’s spent years tackling red tape, pushing for real solutions to housing affordability, and standing up for hardworking families. Now, he’s bringing that same determination to fight for our community.

Stopping the Port Stephens Offshore Wind Farms

Fixing local infrastructure so families aren’t stuck in traffic and waiting years for projects to start

Making it easier for first-home buyers to get into the market by unlocking superannuation for home deposits

Improving local healthcare, including better hospital services in Port Stephens

Supporting small businesses with less red tape and a better deal from government

Port Stephens has given so much to Laurence and his family, and now he’s working to give back-fighting for the future of our region.

LAURENCE ANTCLIFF

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This

The

For

By Mayor Leah Anderson

AS International Women’s Day approaches on 8 March, it’s a great time to celebrate the amazing women of Port Stephens and everything they do for our community.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ really hits home with me.

I’m looking forward to celebrating the achievements and resilience of women from all walks of life.

Port Stephens is full of inspiring women - entrepreneurs, community leaders, carers, and innovators - who make a difference every day.

Whether they’re running local businesses or volunteering to support those in need, they’re the backbone of our community.

I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside some incredible women who’ve shaped my journey.

Over the years, I’ve developed an understanding of the unique challenges women face, whether they’re growing their own businesses, advancing in their careers, or starting fresh.

Sixteen years ago, I founded Port Stephens Women in Business because I wanted to create a space where women could connect, support each other, and grow.

Today, the group is still very active, and it shows the power of women coming together and lifting each other up.

It’s a constant reminder of why it’s so important to create opportunities where women can thrive.

In line with this year’s theme, Port Stephens Council is proud to be offering three $1,000 scholarships to support local women in achieving their personal and professional goals.

The Rotary Club of Salamander Bay is generously contributing a fourth scholarship.

For the past seven years, these scholarships have empowered women within our community, recognising their contributions across arts, culture, environment, business, community service, health, and sport.

The recipients of these scholarships will be honoured at the Rotary Club’s International Women’s Day dinner on Saturday, 8 March, at the Soldiers Point Bowling Club.

I’m looking forward to celebrating International Women’s Day with the incredible women of Port Stephens, share our stories, and reaffirm our commitment to building a future that’s equitable for all.

To find out more about the International Women’s Day, visit www.internationalwomensday. com

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

FAITHFUL FORGIVER - "If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Fukushima's damaged reactors

DEAR News Of The Area,

It is sobering to learn that, fourteen years after the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear disaster in Japan, the three destroyed nuclear reactors still have not been 'cleaned up'.

On 11 March 2011, a 9.1 magnitude earthquake shook north-eastern Japan, triggering a massive series of tsunami waves that breached the seawall and inundated the Fukushima nuclear power plant, disrupting mains power and backup power to three operating reactors: units 1, 2 and 3.

Cooling systems were disabled and all three reactors overheated, leading to three core meltdowns.

The radioactive fuel then burned through the bottom of reactor containments, spilling out like lava.

On March 12, 14 and 15, hydrogen explosions destroyed all three reactors, ejecting massive clouds of carcinogenic radionuclides over northern Japan and the Pacific Ocean, including iodine-131, strontium-90, caesium-137, xenon-133, plutonium.

Today, Fukushima's reactors still contain 880 tonnes of highly radioactive molten fuel, presenting a potential safety hazard for workers and the local community.

The debris has to be removed, but human access is impossible.

So the operator, TEPCO, tried to use robotic drones to inspect the reactors, but several drones were destroyed by intense radioactivity.

It wasn't until September 2024 that an $A 82 million dollar, robotic arm managed to slowly crawl into Unit 2 primary containment vessel and extract about 3 grams of debris for scientific analysis: a process that took two weeks.

So here we are, 14 years after a horrific nuclear accident and nuclear experts are yet to determine how best to remove, store and 'dispose' of the tonnes of leftover radioactive debris. To make matters worse, the clean-up bill is estimated to cost more than 23.4 trillion yen ($A 246 billion): a shocking burden on future generations, long after any electricity has ceased.

Regards, Kenneth HIGGS, Raymond Terrace.

On theCouch

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

DEAR Jasminda,

LAST week my phone rang during the meditation part of a yoga class.

I quickly attended to it and switched it to silent (which I thought I'd already done).

One of the other yoga attendees made a big deal about it, but he falls asleep in every session and snores which I find extremely disruptive to my meditative state.

I want to have it out with him.

Should I?

Wendy M.

Dear Wendy,

Having it out with a fellow yogi doesn't feel right.

Yoga is all about improving your state of mind (and body), not getting your knickers in a knot (though getting your body in a knot seems to be a crucial part of the process).

The poses are often as tricky to pronounce as they are to perform such as ashtavakrasana where you bend your right knee and pass your right arm underneath, then hook your right knee on your right shoulder while keeping your palms on either side of your hips then raise your left leg and cross your left ankle over your right, bending your

The power of independence

DEAR News Of The Area,

VOTING for an independent MP can benefit the Australian community by promoting more personalised and responsive representation.

Independent MPs are not constrained by party politics, allowing them to focus solely on the needs and concerns of their constituents.

This independence means they can advocate for local issues without the influence of party agendas, ensuring that the community's priorities are the central focus.

Furthermore, independent MPs are often more accessible and engaged with their electorate, fostering closer relationships and open communication.

This means constituents are more likely to have their voices heard and receive timely responses to their concerns.

Additionally, independents can bring

fresh perspectives to national debates, challenging the traditional two-party system and encouraging more diverse policy discussions.

They can hold the government to account, acting as a check on party politics and ensuring that decisions are made with the public's best interests in mind.

In a diverse society like Australia, where local issues can vary greatly from one region to another, voting for an independent MP ensures that communities are not overlooked or forced into a one-size-fits-all approach dictated by major parties.

Overall, independent MPs can provide more effective, accountable, and representative leadership, enhancing the democratic process.

Regards, Bill DORAN, Tanilba Bay.

elbows at a right angle, and keeping your chest raised. It's like Twister for sadomasochists.

After all the physical and mental gymnastics, the final meditation is something to look forward to, so I can understand your fellow yogi's annoyance when he's mentally floating down a forest stream, breathing in fresh air that smells of damp moss and pine needles, alert to the sounds of birds chirping, the stream burbling, and then he's brought back to reality by Maria in da Club belting out from your phone, followed by you stepping across his body, tripping over a yoga bolster, your grippy socks making an annoying sucking noise on the floor boards until you reach your phone that is stored in the cubes at the entrance.

In future, leave your phone in the car.

As for his snoring, those bolsters and cushions have multiple uses.

Perhaps one could be gently placed over his face.

A bit of light pressure is sure to stop the snoring, though you'll probably be banned from the class when your yoga teacher catches you in the mid suffocation-pose.

Namaste, Jasminda.

When does profit become greed?

DEAR News Of The Area,

THE recent Private Health insurance industry increase in premiums by 3.73 percent, which has been “negotiated” with the federal government, raises an important question.

When does profit become greed?

In the 2022-2023 financial year the average profit from all private health funds was $2.2 billion, with profit increases as high as 110% in one case.

It is my belief that profit becomes greed when financial gain is prioritised over fairness, ethics, and the well-being of others.

Businesses need profit to survive, grow, and innovate, but when profits come at the expense of employees, consumers, or society, greed takes over.

For example, if a company makes billions yet underpays workers, raises prices unfairly, or cuts essential services to maximize

shareholder returns, profit has turned into greed.

When executives receive massive bonuses while customers struggle to afford necessities, ethical concerns arise.

Greed is also evident when companies manipulate markets, exploit loopholes, or lobby against regulations that protect consumers.

If profit drives decisions that harm the environment, limit access to essential goods like healthcare, or create economic inequality, it is no longer justifiable - it becomes excessive.

Sustainable and ethical businesses balance profit with social responsibility, ensuring long-term success without exploiting people or resources.

Profit is necessary, but when it disregards humanity, it turns into greed.

Regards, Bill DORAN, Tanilba Bay.

READING by Lynne Miles: 1 John 1: 9

Stinker’s History: Local industries under pressure

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

TRADITIONALLY

Port

Stephens was built on fishing and oyster farming.

Today both of those industries are under increasing pressure.

As far back as November 1913 the port was reported to be a “Seafood Goldmine” in the Daily Telegraph.

The article featured a photograph of Mr J Lund of Nelson Bay loading part of his 60 dozen lobster catch onto the steamer “Karuah”.

Port Stephens was being promoted as the seafood bowl that would continue to supply growing markets in Newcastle and Sydney.

Over time the traditional industries have steadied in the wake of tourism and the associated businesses.

A wander along Teramby Street on the waterfront in Nelson Bay will reveal a very different scene with tourist

and charter boats along with luxury craft taking up the majority of space inside the marina.

What is noticeable is the lack of fishing trawlers which dominated the moorings not so long ago.

In 1983 there were 23 working trawlers based in the port.

Today there are two.

What has brought about the demise of the trawler fleet?

I can only report on anecdotal evidence as I have not researched the returns through the Newcastle and Sydney Fish markets.

The costs to run a trawler have skyrocketed in recent times with the price of diesel being a major factor.

The return for effort has decreased with fish and prawn catches continuing to drop alarmingly.

I was told some years ago, by an experienced

trawlerman, that the fish caught today, mainly flathead and sharks, were considered as ‘bycatch’ and washed overboard in the days when fish of higher quality and numbers were returned to the Co-op.

The introduction of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, around 20 years ago, restricted the areas in which the local trawlers could work, however, in my opinion this is not a major reason for the collapse of the trawling industry.

I do not believe that trawling could have survived even if the marine park was not declared.

What disappoints me is how the local trawlermen, who have contributed so significantly to the development of our community, have been treated.

Some years back I supported the efforts of these men in their attempt to leave the industry with dignity by applying for a “buy out”.

This request was

q In 1983 there were 23 trawlers working out of Port Stephens.

disrespectfully denied, forcing the fishermen to continue to work against their wishes.

Other fishing endorsements, lobster and beach hauling continue to supply quality local product to the shelves of our outlets.

The mullet season around Easter remains sustainable with fresh local mullet eagerly purchased.

Crabbing and fishing inside the harbour remain productive and sustainable and it is my hope that it continues to be as not everyone can catch their own fish and local seafood is far preferable to farmed and imported.

I support sustainable commercial fishing.

Back in 2013 following four years of research and interviews I published a book titled ”Oysterman” which told of the highs and lows of the local Port Stephens oyster industry.

The introduction of the Pacific oyster in the mid1980s all but destroyed the industry, which had been written about in the 1940s as

Stinker’s Fishin’: Slow down

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

THINGS do not always go as planned.

Let me tell you a story.

As I had spent most of December and all of January on the Tweed River I was anxious to return home to Fingal Bay and get stuck into the snapper out of “Stinkpot”.

It was over the weekend when the wind swung around to the south and the sea commenced to build.

With some degree of urgency I took the bait of frozen yellowtail, king prawns and slimy mackerel out of the freezer.

Petrol, kick the motor over in the boat shed, rods

loaded, berley, untangle the anchor rope, in goes the bung and back the truck up the driveway.

I was itching to get on the water and so was my mate “Stinkpot”.

Down onto the beach and off the trailer.

Here we go! I was halfway across

Fingal Bay when I had a strange feeling that I had left something behind.

Where is my tackle box?

Nowhere to be found.

Now I remember - I had left it on the table in the

“The Biggest Oyster Farm in the World”.

Today it is a struggle for those oyster families who have chosen to remain on the water.

Oyster farmers are the most resilient people I have ever met.

There are so many hurdles to overcome before the magnificent oysters, for which we are famous, arrive on the shelves.

Water quality, salinity, temperature and theft are but a few of the obstacles along the three years of oyster growth.

If that is not enough, the

growers need to contend with viruses and parasites which can devastate a crop overnight.

The latest is QX (Queensland unknown) a parasite which attacks the Sydney Rock oyster.

It must be realised that the parasite is not harmful to human consumption and that the local oysters for sale remain of the highest quality.

I would encourage visitors and locals alike to get behind our oyster growers as they, like the fishermen, have been the backbone of this community since its very beginnings.

q The local lobster is sustainable.

Desperate to continue, I reckoned that I had three rods with hooks so I didn't need a tackle box.

Full steam ahead.

I still had the feeling that all was not as it should be.

Where is my bait?

Sitting in the back of the

truck on the beach. That’s it, I’m heading home.

There is a lesson to be learnt.

Go steady, slow down. Don’t let your enthusiasm control your ability to make decisions.

I will learn one day.

Broughton Island Historical Cruise with John 'Stinker' Clarke

q Mullet fishermen wait for the fish to arrive in Fingal Bay.

q As I had spent most of December and all of January on the Tweed River I was anxious to return home to Fingal Bay and get stuck into the snapper out of “Stinkpot”.

Wirrah Shed.

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Spotlight on the islands of Port Stephens

By Simon EKINS

THE Tomaree Museum Association has announced the staging of a new exhibition at the Port Stephens Visitor Centre in Nelson Bay from 14 March.

Titled “Islands of Port Stephens”, the exhibition will showcase the geology, fauna, flora and history of the outer islands as well

as identifying the 20 islands inside Port Stephens.

Supporting this exhibition will be talks by retired geologist Neil Fraser, who will explain the formation and evolution of the area.

Neil’s presentations will be held at 2pm Tuesday 25

March and 8 April, and early booking is advised.

Children can attend the exhibition to read the story of Clarabelle the floating cow or to learn about the lives of seahorses.

On display will be a spectacularly enlarged 3D model of a nudibranch (a beautifully coloured sea slug) produced by local sculptor Matt Johnstone. For further information, call Doug Cross on 0432 058 000.

Alcove of featured artists

By Jacie WHITFIELD

LOCATED opposite the bustling boat terminals at D’Albora Marina in Nelson Bay is a quiet sanctuary of art, sculpture, expression and visual collaboration called the Artisan Collective.

Each month, a dedicated space within the gallery, aptly named “The Alcove”, hosts a different exhibition.

February’s showcase artists were Belinda Dorey and Peter Simmons.

Peter is a surfer, sculptor and illustrator who uses a technique called pyrography (woodburning).

He also creates stone sculptures and stunning artworks using pen.

He describes himself as “an artist that loves the natural world”, reflecting this in his artworks.

Peter has a background in plant and wildlife illustration and started in sculpture in the late 90's.

“I’ve always been interested in art from an early age but over the years I’ve let life interfere with it,” he said.

After leaving the Navy and sailing into retirement, he became reacquainted with his pencils and pens, and has attacked his artistic expressionism “with a vengeance.”

He has exhibited in parts of the Hunter,

an

in

who showcases her love of water.

“My passion to capture the reverence of the ocean and local coastal views is reflected by my many years

Each Coast drenching

By Thomas O’KEEFE

THE expected East Coast drenching is the result of a “perfect storm” of circumstances”.

The Bureau of Meteorology put out a Flood Watch on Sunday 2 March, alerting the upper Mid North Coast region to the aftereffects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, moving in from the South Pacific.

“Rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Alfred has the potential to cause major flooding along NSW coastal rivers from the Queensland Border to Port Macquarie, with the locations and severity of flooding dependent on the track of the Tropical Cyclone, and flooding may develop from late Wednesday, and continue until at least the weekend,” the BOM alert stated.

“Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to move southwards parallel to the coast before tracking westward, bringing heavy and locally intense rainfall from late Wednesday over the South East of Queensland, and the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast of New South Wales, and continuing on Thursday, Friday and into the weekend.”

The resultant outlook further south, around Port Stephens and Newcastle, is grey and wet, with 80 percent to 90 percent chance of rain every day, all week.

TC Alfred is one of three cyclone systems that have been tracked across the South Pacific, with TC Seru and TC Rae stringing further west of Alfred.

The wet weather does not bode well for a quartet of major events, starting with the long-time favourite of Motorfest on Saturday

8 March, the next Myall River Festival on 9 March, the Hot Rod event over the following weekend, and the Hawks Nest Senior’s Concert on Saturday 15 March (although the concert is the only one set indoors).

Hopes recently expressed by the NSW Rural Fire Service may also be dashed.

The previously forecast ‘fine weather’ was supposed to provide opportunities for hazard reduction burns.

“As we approach the end of this fire season, we must take advantage of these conditions to address the backlog of hazard reduction burns and ensure our communities are as prepared as possible for the next fire season,”

Commissioner Rogers said on Friday 28 February, before the BOM’s major rain forecast.

Several of the regions, from Tweed Heads to the Hunter, may have to wait another weather cycle before they are dry enough for burning.

in and near the water, having had a childhood immersed in nature, and living on Kangaroo Island over two decades,” she said.

“Water is one of my favourite subjects and a continuous thread in my work.”

Advertising within the News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from the next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. (02) 4981 8882

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q Peter Simmons and Belinda Dorey with some of their artworks in The Alcove at the Artisan Collective

Newcastle, Sydney and Thredbo.

Belinda Dorey is

artist based

Newcastle

Belinda often works en plein air (outdoors) and continues to develop her pieces in the studio. Her preferred mediums are oils and pastels.

The Artisan Collective is open every day with an artist on duty.

Ongoing protection for Eastern Blue Groper

THE no-line fishing prohibition on the Eastern Blue Groper, implemented 12 months ago, will continue for a further three years from 1 March 2025 to enable further research and monitoring on the species.

The NSW Government decision combines with the long-term existing prohibition on spearfishing and commercial fishing of the Eastern Blue Groper to continue the temporary prohibition of line fishing.

“This decision has been taken after the Government considered a range of important factors including recently published scientific information that raised

concerns about the potential impacts of climate change and that caution should be taken in managing the species due to their unique biological traits,” the government said in a statement.

“The protection afforded by a prohibition on fishing was required following a community outcry on the behaviour of persons found illegally spearing the fish along the NSW coast and a concern for the sustainability of the species.”

During the 12-month period of the ban, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development undertook community engagement,

research and stock assessment of the Blue Groper.

The stock assessment concluded that the Eastern Blue Groper is in a sustainable position, however there is a risk the species is being impacted by climate change and warming waters.

“There is a strong community interest in the State’s iconic Eastern Blue Groper, and there is a community expectation that we take every step possible to understand any potential impacts that climate change may be having on the species,” NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said.

“Three further years of

scientific monitoring will deliver a deeper level of understanding of how this wonderful fish is coping with warming conditions and what impact those conditions are having on the population, particularly in our inshore waters where people interact with the Eastern Blue Groper.

“I know some fishers will be disappointed, but I also know there are many in the NSW community, including fishers, who want this State Fish protected and that is what the Government is doing.”

q The Eastern Blue Groper is in a sustainable position, however there is a risk the species is being impacted by climate change and warming waters.

Masters gold for Port Stephens pickleball stars

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens pickleball warriors Tony Mayers and John Grace have a spring in their step when they prepare for action on the court.

Having formed a potent doubles partnership on the national circuit, the experienced duo are savouring deserved honours on the seniors pickleball scene.

Fingal Bay hotshot Mayers and the power-hitting Grace from One Mile Beach recently confirmed their status as one of the best doubles combinations in the country after capturing an elusive Australian Masters title in the Men's Doubles 65 years plus class at Beenleigh.

The talented pair produced a spirited performance to defeat highly rated

Queenslanders Greg Tobin (Surfers Paradise) and his partner Tony Porter (Burleigh Waters) 7-11, 11-1 and 13-11 in a gripping final.

Competing against opponents with a skill level of 3.49 under, Tony and John demonstrated their polished court craft and stamina to claim the gold medal.

It was a first-ever national Masters title for seasoned campaigner Mayers, who has chalked up impressive victories on the NSW Pickleball circuit these past two years.

Anna Bay’s John McDonald teamed up with Doonbah’s Terry Broadbent to collect bronze.

There was more reason to celebrate for the in-form Mayers after he joined forces with Tannum Sands’ Michelle

Double milestone for 101yo Millie Meadows

By Chris KARAS

A LOVE of horses, punting and the famous Balmain Tigers rugby league club has enriched the life of Soldiers Point centenarian Millie Meadows.

A passion for all three pastimes runs deep in this evergreen and charming character, who is blessed with good health and a sense of humour.

The Regis Port Stephens resident celebrated two special milestones recently with family and friends; her 101st birthday and the 100th anniversary of her father William “Bailey” Meadows’ first grade career in the NSW Rugby Football League.

Bailey was aged only five when foundation club Glebe participated in the inaugural season of the NSWRL in 1908.

As a powerful and hardworking forward, he went on to chalk up seven top grade appearances for the 1925 Dirty Reds, in a season dominated by the undefeated Rabbitohs.

By Round 13, South

Sydney was 10 points clear with five fixtures to play, prompting the NSWRFL to cut the season short (they introduced a finals system the following year).

The Dirty Reds finished in second spot after five wins.

Millie, the eldest of 12 children, speaks fondly of her father and his rugby league deeds.

She grew up in the Sydney suburbs of Glebe and Ryde as a staunch Balmain Tigers supporter and her passion for the game remains strong today as a big fan of the Wests Tigers in the National Rugby League.

Millie was born in 1924, the same year the Balmain club won its sixth NSWRFL premiership.

The following year, she attended her father’s matches with her mother Doris.

“I was only one year old when dad played first grade with the Dirty Reds but went along to matches at Wentworth Park and Birchgrove Oval with mum to watch him in action,” Millie told News Of The Area.

“My love of rugby league and the Tigers was spawned from those early years and later through my own family’s involvement with the game.”

Millie married William “Allen” Tonkin, a local soccer legend, and raised four children; sons David and Daryl and daughters Judy and Janine.

David played reserve grade rugby league with the Tigers after showing promise as a skilful half back or five eighth with Ryde United and Denistone clubs in the Balmain Junior League.

“Our connection with the Tigers intensified when David was promoted to the grade ranks and the family remain passionate supporters today.”

Judy and Janine were talented netballers in their heyday but black and gold still flows through their sporting veins.

Over the years Millie became good friends with Tigers legends such as Keith Barnes, Arthur Beetson, Wayne Pearce, Steve Roach, Benny Elias, Paul Sironen and a young centre named

Terry Parker who figured in Balmain’s famous 1969 premiership victory over South Sydney at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

“The Parker family were close neighbours of ours in Glebe and Terry’s older brother Trevor was page boy at my wedding.

“I distinctly remember the black and gold decorations on the terrace houses in Glebe during Grand Final week in 1969 and the post match celebrations.”

She also has fond memories of Wests Tigers’ historic premiership triumph in 2005 and shaking the hands of champion Western Suburbs and Kangaroos half back Arthur Summons while leaning over the fence at the SCG after a grand final.

Millie was a regular spectator at Tigers’ matches at Leichhardt Oval and savoured the club’s success over the decades.

“The Tigers are a close knit rugby league community and have given me so much enjoyment as a fan.”

Millie has eight

grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren and takes a big interest in their lives.

Her grandson Brett Papworth, a classy five eighth, played junior representative matches for Balmain in the Harold Matthews Cup and S.G. Ball Cup.

Millie also remembers attending the trots at Harold Park Paceway in Glebe as

Mayers

on the Victoria Open to be staged in Melbourne from March 7-9, and the Big Chill tournament in Canberra on March 15-16.

Nelson Bay’s Kim Fletcher teamed with South Murwillumbah’s Tracey Boniface to grab a bronze medal in the Women's Doubles category for players with a 2.99 under skill level.

Gold

winners were the

and

from

a young girl and visiting Sydney’s historic Capitol Theatre with her father.

She still enjoys a small flutter on the horse races with her Punters Club friends and either watching or listening to NRL matches.

On her 101st birthday she received a special gift from Regis Port Stephens staff member Leanne Redman – a retro Balmain Tigers guernsey which she wears with pride.

SPORT

Faustina to earn a silver medal in the Mixed Doubles 60yrs plus category with skill level at

3-3.49 under. Both turned in gallant displays before succumbing to

Pimpana’s Helen Conway and Frank Van Der Laan in the gold medal decider.

Top husband-wife combination of Tony and Tracey Porter snared the bronze.

has now set his sights

medal

skilful Trudi Stacey

Biggera Waters

Emma Fitzwilliam (Gold Coast) who toppled Wakerley’s Kristen White and Redland Bay’s Danae Kemp in an absorbing final.

q Port Stephens pickleball hot shots Tony Mayers and John Grace with Anna Bay’s John McDonald and Doonbah’s Terry Broadbent.

q Millie Meadows of Soldiers Point was presented with a prized retro Balmain Tigers rugby league jumper from Regis Port Stephens staff on her 101st birthday.

SPORT

Gropers young guns keen to impress

By Chris KARAS

NELSON Bay Rugby Club will invest in a proven youth policy in its quest for championship honours in the 2025 Hunter Suburban Men's Rugby competition.

The Gropers will parade an exciting batch of promising colts for this year’s first grade campaign under the guidance of new coach Zion Takarua.

Still reeling from their shock 12-7 loss to Cooks Hill in last year’s preliminary final, the Nelson Bay club has vowed to make amends and regain the President’s Trophy.

The Gropers will field the core of the undefeated 2023 squad that won the premiership, along with an emerging crop of local products from the championship-winning Under 18 sides that captured back-to-back titles in 202324.

New recruits include talented fullback Will Clark and flanker Oliver Edwards, who return to the club after stints in the Newcastle Wildfires Colts system.

Both progressed through the Nelson Bay Junior Rugby

development pool to cut their teeth in Premier Rugby in 2022.

Clark is a former Australian Under 18 Schoolboys and NSW Barbarians representative who featured at the Sydney Junior, Under 18 Country and NSW State championships.

An elusive and versatile athlete, Will is equally adept as a fullback, winger or centre and is a capable goal kicker.

He is a former state sprinter who will add plenty of thrust and speed to the Gropers’ much vaunted backline this season.

The rugged Edwards is a dynamic flanker and hooker who performed strongly at the 2022 Sydney Junior Rugby, Under 18 Country and NSW State Championships.

He gained valuable experience with the Wildfires’ Colts teams and was eager to return home to Nelson Bay for the 2025 Hunter Suburban Rugby campaign.

Two other major gains are promising prop forward Jacob Affleck and his uncle Jarrod Zuvela.

Young gun Affleck was a key figure in the Gropers’

premiership-winning Under 18 teams these past two seasons and represented Hunter at the Under 18 Country and Sydney Junior Championships in 2022.

A dedicated forward, Jacob is relishing the opportunity to learn the art of front row scrummaging under the Gropers’ master prop and new coach Takarua.

Tireless forward Zuvela has made his way to the Groperdome via the Central Coast and Central West Rugby.

A teak-tough lock and flanker, Jarrod represented the Kariong Wanderers in Premier 1 and 2 competitions and Presidents Cup, before linking with the Bathurst Bulldogs.

He was blooded in the 2021 New Holland Cup before playing a key role in the Bulldogs - winning the Central West Rugby Blowes Cup first grade premiership.

Other local Nelson Bay juniors to join the Gropers squad for 2025 are versatile lock and flanker Jobe Hirschausen, prop Eddie De Vos, utility back Brayden McMaster, tough flankerhooker Hayden Wilson and

flanker-centre Kurt Peters. With the return of crafty halfback Kade Redmond, hooker Harry Porter, tough Number 8 Rhys York, dynamic flyhalf/centre Cody Ross, versatile lock Mitch Affleck and lock Matthew

Christenson, Nelson Bay Rugby is building a powerful squad to challenge for the Hunter Rugby Divisional premiership.

Meanwhile, Nelson Bay Women's squad is looking for new players for the 2025 season. Training is on Mondays at Tomaree Sports Complex number one ground at 5.45pm and Wednesdays at Bill Strong Oval from 5.45pm.

Port Stephens Pythons close in on Newcastle First Division Mens Cricket minor title

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens Pythons Cricket Club have consolidated top spot on the Newcastle District Senior Cricket First Division competition ladder.

After 18 rounds, the Pythons (42 points) have opened up a four point lead over rivals Waterboard Wests and Merewether (38) with two preliminary round fixtures remaining before the finals.

Three clubs, Journeymen (Wests), Cardiff-Boolaroo and

Glendale Old Boys, remain in the hunt for a top four spot on 36 points.

The Pythons proved too strong for Glendale in a recent one day clash at King Park with a half century from opener Leigh Williams and three wicket hauls from ace all rounders Jarrod Moxey and Tyran Eveleigh. Williams clobbered 75 off 85 balls with five boundaries and two sixes and was supported by number five Jarryd Johnson (48 off 38 balls), who cracked six boundaries and a six as Port

Stephens registered 8-218 off their 40 overs.

Adam Fitzhenry (3-38 off eight overs), paceman Tim Mason (2-32 off eight) and Jono Coles (2-38 off seven) were the pick of the Old Boys bowlers.

Mason top scored with 24 runs as Glendale were bundled out for 88 in the 28th over with all action Eveleigh (3-20 off six overs) and the ever reliable Moxey (3-22 off eight) stamping their mark with the ball.

It was the Pythons’ ninth victory of the summer and

has the team well-placed for the minor premiership title with fixtures against Merewether at Connolly Park and Cardiff-Boolaroo at Cardiff No 2 remaining.

Port Stephens second grade X1 suffered a 20 run loss to competition leaders Warners Bay Maroon in their top of the table clash at Feighan Oval.

Chasing Warners Bay’s modest total of 92, the Pythons were dismissed for 72 in the 29th over after top bowling spells from Andrew Vickery (4-23 off seven

overs), Grant Riorden (3-8 off five) and Derek Lodge (2-9 off seven).

Luke Cooper top scored for the Pythons with 24 while Jeremy Kirk produced a superb performance with the ball to help skittle Warners Bay with 5-12 off six overs. Dean Rehbein also impressed with 2-15 off five overs.

Despite the loss, the Pythons sit in second spot on 41 points – four behind leaders Warners Bay on 45.

Tigers’ legend Neil Pringle and Sharks Hall of Famer David Peachey share spotlight in Port Stephens

FROM Page 28

He represented Newtown in the S.G. Ball and Jersey Flegg Cup competitions and in 1967 was selected by the Bluebags to play in the Presidents Cup as a raw-boned 15-year-old.

Pringle was set to be graded but was sent back to the Junior League when officials discovered how old he was.

He was eventually graded in 1971 and after playing reserve grade was promoted to play in the end-of-season Endeavour Cup knockout tournament for the eight clubs that missed out on the finals.

Pringle partnered Ron Fogarty in the centres but made his official top grade debut as a lock forward against Eastern Suburbs at Henson Park at the start of the 1972 season.

The charismatic lock would go on to play 64 matches for Newtown under the coaching of Harry Bath and Jack Gibson and represent NSW Colts and City before joining the Balmain club in 1975.

Pringle became a Tigers legend, notching up 84 top grade appearances and forming a potent combination with gifted ball playing English international

and fellow forward Brian Lockwood.

Both figured in Balmain’s Wills Cup and Amco Cupwinning teams in 1976 with Pringle scoring a sensational try off a Lockwood flick-pass in the mid week knockout final against North Sydney at Leichhardt Oval.

He stayed at the Tigers until his retirement from Sydney football at the conclusion of the 1982 season and finished his career as captain-coach of the Cessnock Goannas in the Newcastle competition.

Nicknamed “Bing”after famous crooner Bing Crosby, Neil has always been known

to perform a song or two at rugby league functions.

During his career, Pringle packed down against Immortals Arthur Beetson and Ron Coote and the likes of John Sattler, Malcolm Reilly, John O’Neill, Terry Randall, John Donnolly and Craig Young.

He also overcame a crippling virus when struck down in late 1979 with peripheral neuropathy, an extreme inflammation of the nerve ends.

He was almost paralysed but fought back to get on the field for the Balmain Tigers before stepping aside for the budding lock forward and

future great, Wayne Pearce.

Pringle also reflected on his touring days to New Zealand with a combined Sydney team, where they played five games in 13 days; working for Tyrell Wines and helping the Goannas reach the Grand Final against Robert Finch’s Maitland, losing 20-12 in front of 17,000 spectators.

The luncheon audience was also entertained by excitement machine Peachey, fresh from his induction into the Cronulla Sharks Hall of Fame.

Peachey made a special trip from Dubbo on the day and reflected on his illustrious career with the

Sharks - scoring 110 tries in 232 matches - and with South Sydney and English Super League club Widnes. Muggleton, a Balmain junior who won four premierships with the Eels and now lives at Salamander Bay, played three tests with the Australian “Invincibles” on the 1982 Kangaroos tour of England and France.

Master of ceremonies Charlie Haggett and the Family of League Foundation Port Stephens committee, led by Peter Arnold and team, deserve praise for organising a thoroughly enjoyable charity event for a wonderful cause.

q Talented Nelson Bay rugby recruits Will Clark, Oliver Edwards, Jacob Affleck and Jarrod Zuvela will boost the Gropers’ first grade men's squad in 2025.

SUDOKU

BUCKLEY

Monica Therese

Born 17.06.1925

Died 01.03.2025

Late of Tea Gardens

Formerly of Parramatta

Beloved wife of Norman (dec’d). Loving mother to Robert, Peter & John (both dec’d). A much loved grandmother to Jennifer, Kate, Belinda & Brendan and a loving great grandmother to Jye, Ollie & Scarlett. A dear sister and aunt to her beloved family.

Family and Friends of MONICA are respectfully advised her Funeral Service took place in the Chapel of Lance Boots Funerals, Raymond Terrace and interred with Norman & Peter in Macquarie Park Cemetery.

LANCE BOOTS FUNERALS 49872101 www.lancebootsfunerals.com.au

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Caravans

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BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

SBS, 8.30pm

Queen Camilla (above) has had more headlines written about her than most of us have had hot dinners – but tabloids and clickbait creators can be curiously shy about spotlighting the hard work she puts in to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Airing on International Women’s Day, this documentary aims to spread awareness of how and why perpetrators abuse, how we can stop the cycle and what the Queen has been doing about it for more than a decade.

FRIDAY, March 7

SUNDAY

THE NEWSREADER

ABC TV, 8.30pm

The bigger they are, the harder they fall – in The Newsreader version of 1989 there’s no one bigger than the “King of News” Dale Jennings (Sam Reid). And he is going downhill, fast. After three seasons set against some of the biggest stories of the 20th century, the final-ever episode of this newsroom-based drama documents Gold Logie winner Dale’s alcohol-fuelled tumble from grace alongside the fall of the Berlin Wall. While Dale is racing towards rock bottom, former lover and closest friend Helen Norville (Anna Torv, pictured) hits a glass ceiling as her ability to produce her own show is questioned. As history breaks in Berlin, Dale and Helen turn to each other for support.

MONDAY MEMORY BITES MORAN

personal look at the role food plays in our lives, and the memories of family, friends and special times that a meal can evoke. Moran hosts famous Australian faces, using food to transport them back to pivotal moments in their lives through heart-warming recipes and quality conversation. Tonight’s premiere sees Moran and Invisible Boys star Pia Miranda (pictured, with Moran) honour her nonna Angelina by recreating Miranda’s childhood favourites, before sharing a soup that’s sacred to her family.

SBS World News.

James May: Our Man In Italy. (M) 8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (R) 9.25 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead. (PG) 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Bonn. (Masv) 11.45 Sisi. (Mav, R)

2.35 Elizabeth. (PG, R)

4.15 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 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)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs finds out all there is to love about living in the Hunter Valley. 7.30 Football. AFL. Opening Round. Sydney v Hawthorn. From the SCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.

11.30 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.00 Suits L.A. (Ma, R) A former prosecutor opens an LA law firm.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Dolphins v South Sydney Rabbitohs.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus South Sydney Rabbitohs match, with news and analysis.

10.45 Rise Of The Dolphins. (PG) A look at the NRL Dolphins.

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Let’s Eat With George. (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)

9GO! (83) 6am Morning Programs. 7.00 The Age Of Innocence. (1993, PG) 9.30 The Kids

Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 Motor Racing. Race of Champions. Day 1. 10.30 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, March 8

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky.

9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Wang Gungwu Lecture 2025. (R) 1.30 Optics. (Final, Ml, R) 2.00 Under The Vines. (PG, R) 2.45 Extraordinary Escapes. (PGl, R) 3.35 The Role Of A Lifetime. (PG, R) 4.25 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG, R) 5.25 Landline. (R) 5.55 Australian Story. (R)

6.30 Back Roads: Hilltops Region, NSW. (PG, R) Lisa Millar heads to the Hilltops region of New South Wales for the Running of the Sheep.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG) Catherine finds herself entangled in a case when an old friend becomes a murder suspect. 8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) After a young police officer is found dead floating in a park lake, DCI Vera Stanhope investigates.

10.05 The Newsreader. (Madl, R) Helen is blindsided by a front-page story. 11.00 Unforgotten. (Mal, R)

11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Wonders Of Europe.

8.30 Her Majesty The Queen: Behind Closed Doors. Explores Queen Camilla’s domestic violence awareness work.

9.50 Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye. (Ml, R)

10.55 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. 12.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men.

3.00 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)

4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A couple have a prohibited item.

7.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016, Mav, R) An assassin is forced out of hiding. Matt Damon, Tommy Lee Jones. 10.10 MOVIE: American Made. (2017, MA15+l, R) A pilot is recruited by the CIA. Tom Cruise.

12.30 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGal, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 To Be Advised. 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa)

8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde 2: Red, White And Blonde. (2003, PGl, R)

10.30 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past. (2009, Ms, R)

12.25 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R)

1.20 The Pet Rescuers. (PG, R)

1.50 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)

6am

6am What Do

We See When We Look At The Sky? Continued. (2021, Georgian) 8.40 Barefoot In The Park. (1967, PG) 10.40 Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 12.50pm Everybody Hates Johan. (2022, M, Norwegian) 2.40 The Age Of Innocence. (1993, PG) 5.10 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 6.50 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 8.30 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 11.00 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, March 9

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s Adriatic Gardens. (R) 3.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure. (PGn, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.05 A Dog’s World With Tony Armstrong. (R)

6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (Final, PG) The dogs face their final challenge.

8.30 The Newsreader. (Final, Ml) Dale and Helen turn to each other for support.

9.30 Love Me. (Final, MA15+s)

10.20 MOVIE: Death In Brunswick. (1991, Mlsv, R)

12.10 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R)

12.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)

3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. 8.25 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (M)

9.25 Legends Of The Pharaohs. (Ma, R)

10.20 Great British Landmark Fixers. (R)

11.15 The Weedy One. (PGa, R) 11.25 The Fade. (Ma, R) 11.35 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 1. 1.35 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PGa, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.

WorldWatch.

Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm Figure Skating. 1.45 Fringes. 2.15 Rites Of Passage. 2.45 Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. (Return) 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 WWE Legends. 11.45 Late Programs.

6am The Kids Are Alright. Continued. (2021, PG, Spanish) 6.35 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 8.20 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 10.10 Studs. (2006, M) 11.55 Language Lessons. (2021, M) 1.45pm Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 3.25 What Do We See When We Look At The Sky? (2021, Georgian) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Goodfellas. (1990) 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 The Hunters: Murder Highway. (M) Former detective Steve van Aperen and crime journalist Adam Shand drive the Flinders Highway.

10.10 Ivan Milat: Buried Secrets. (MA15+av, R) Takes a look at the crimes of Ivan Milat.

12.10 The Bay. (Mav, R)

2.00 To Be Advised.

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00

9GO! (83)

9GO! (83)

MONDAY, March 10

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Sicily With Michael Portillo. 8.25 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries.

9.20 24 Hours In Emergency. (Return)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Syndrome E. (Premiere, Malv)

11.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)

12.20 My Life In Clay. (R)

12.35 Primitive Medium. (R)

12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 2. 2.45 Elizabeth. (PGa, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.10 Suits L.A. (M)

10.10 The Agenda Setters. (Premiere) An expert panel tackle the biggest AFL topics. 11.10 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGas) Chance puts pressure on Mayan and Quinten. 12.10 Miniseries: Hatton Garden. (Ml, R)

2.00 To Be Advised.

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 100% Footy. (Return, M) 10.00 9News Late.

10.30 The Life And Murder Of Nicole Brown Simpson. (Malv)

11.30 First On Scene. (MA15+a, R)

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 Hello SA. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

(32)

6am The World’s

Fastest Indian. Continued. (2005, PG) 7.20 Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 9.00 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 10.50 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 1.20pm The Orphanage. (2019, M, Dari) 3.00 Bonneville. (2006, PG) 4.40 Clue. (1985, PG) 6.25 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 8.30 Misery. (1990, MA15+) 10.30 Men. (2022, MA15+) 12.25am Jiu Jitsu. (2020, MA15+) 2.25 Late Programs.

TUESDAY, March 11

Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)

11.00 Prisoner. (MA15+av)

12.05 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)

12.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 3. 2.45 Elizabeth. (PGa, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

8.40 The Hunting Party. (M)

9.40 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec and Marisa investigate a mysterious ghost ship that has washed up on the shores of his home town.

10.40 The Agenda Setters.

11.40 HMP: Behind Bars: HMP Long Lartin. (MA15+a, R)

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 To Be Advised.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

At First Sight.

(32)

6am Clue. Continued. (1985, PG) 6.50 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 8.50 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 10.30 I Was A Dreamer. (2016, M) 12.25pm Spanish Affair. (2014, M, Basque) 2.15 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 4.35 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 6.20 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 8.30 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 11.10 The Ides Of March. (2011, M) 1.05am Late Programs.

WEDNESDAY, March 12

Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power

THURSDAY, March 13 6.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Australia: An Unofficial History. (al)

8.35 The Jury: Murder Trial UK. (Ma)

9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+)

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Blackwater. (MA15+ansv)

12.15 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)

12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 4. 2.45 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlsv, R) 3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (Premiere, Ma) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 Live At The Chapel: Amy Shark. (Ma) Amy Shark performs her hits.

11.00 Autopsy USA. (Ma)

12.00 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)

2.00 To Be Advised.

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

9.00 Big Miracles. (Final, Mam)

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 Freddy And The Eighth. (Premiere, Ml)

11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 My Way. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

8.00 Back Roads. (PG)

8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (PG)

9.20 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (Final)

10.05 The Role Of A Lifetime. (PGns, R) 10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 The Business. (R) 11.30 Miriam Margolyes Impossibly Australian. (Ml, R) 12.25 Grand Designs. (R) 1.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.15 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15

6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30

6am The Importance Of Being Earnest. Continued. (1952) 7.15 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 9.20 Clue. (1985, PG) 11.10 The Exchange. (2021, M) 12.50pm I Love My Dad. (2022, M) 2.40 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 4.40 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 6.20 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 8.30 Monster’s Ball. (2001, MA15+) 10.35 All The King’s Men. (2006, M) 1.05am Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PG)

8.30 Earth: A Year In Orbit. (PGa)

9.30 Boiling Point. (Mal)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Golden Boy. (Mal)

11.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)

12.25 Wet By Fire. (R)

12.35 Dirty Bird. (R)

2.15 Cryptoland. 3.15 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Fast History Of. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Perrier’s Bounty. (2009) 10.05 Am I Being Unreasonable? 11.50 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.20pm WorldWatch. 12.50 MOVIE: Sione’s Wedding. (2006, M) 2.40 Insight. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.40 The Fast History Of. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 James Brown: Say It Loud. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.

MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Pawn Stars. 1.00

12.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 5. 2.45 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (R) 3.50 Bamay. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) Hosted by Graeme Hall.

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (Return, PGal) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.

10.00 The Amazing Race. (Return, PG)

11.30 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)

12.50 Damnation. (MA15+asv)

2.00 To Be Advised.

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 2. Newcastle Knights v Dolphins. 9.55 Thursday Night Knock Off. 10.40 9News Late. 11.10 To

6am Binti. Continued. (2019, PG, Dutch) 6.40 Skating To New York. (2013, PG) 8.20 Poms. (2019, PG) 10.00 The Talented Mr Ripley. (1999, M) 12.35pm The Ides Of March. (2011, M) 2.30 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 4.35 Mary And The Witch’s Flower. (2017, PG) 6.30 On The Waterfront. (1954, PG) 8.30 Saving Private Ryan. (1998, MA15+) 11.40 The Lighthorsemen. (1987, M) 1.50am Late Programs.

Pringle and Peachey

By Chris KARAS

THEY don’t breed them any tougher than rugby league personality forward Neil “Bing” Pringle.

A fine ball runner and cover defender in his heyday, the legendary Newtown and Balmain lock held his own against some of the greatest rugby league champions during the rough and tumble 1970s.

Pringle, 72, took a trip down memory lane last Friday at the Port Stephens Family of League luncheon at Soldiers Point Bowling Club, where he was joined by Cronulla’s former mercurial fullback David Peachey and ex-Australian Kangaroos forwards John Muggleton and Royce Ayliffe.

Now living at Kirra Beach on the Gold Coast, the affable Pringle told a packed audience of his early rugby league days as a Newtown junior –starting his career at the age of six with De La Salle Marrickville and winning four premierships with the Addison Royals (a merger between De La Salle and Lewisham Christian Brothers).

20

q Former Parramatta and Kangaroos forward John Muggleton, Cronulla Sharks Hall of Fame inductee David Peachey and Balmain Tigers legend Neil Pringle were guests of the Port Stephens Family of League.