Coffs Coast News Of The Area 17 February 2023

Andrea FERRARI 0410 067 966 andrea@newsofthearea.com.au

Andrew VIVIAN 0414 646 198 andrew@newsofthearea.com.au

Sam PARKER 0403 222 706 sam@newsofthearea.com.au

Susan KONTIC 0451 990 247 susan@newsofthearea.com.au

David TUNE 0418 756 797 david@newsofthearea.com.au

Aiden BURGESS 0431 769 041 aiden@newsofthearea.com.au

David WIGLEY 0407 132 074 wigley@newsofthearea.com.au

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

EDITOR

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Seniors explore volunteer roles at Connecting For Life expo

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to help others.

City of Coffs Harbour councillor Tony Judge, a volunteer Lifeline North Coast Ambassador, spoke on the value that volunteers get from volunteering.

He highlighted the new friendships, the sense of belonging and fulfilment that comes from being a volunteer.

He also spoke of the joy of being a beginner and learning a new set of skills and how important that is as you age.

“I urge people considering volunteering to try it out and not be discouraged if the first experience does not work,” Tony told NOTA.

“There are many opportunities, and everyone has to find what’s right for them.”

The final words of his speech echoed the iconic Nike advertisement; “just do it!” he said.

Ruth Dorward is like the poster girl for senior volunteering in Coffs Harbour, having built a weekly schedule of different roles.

“I specifically choose to do different types of volunteer work because it keeps my interest up, I enjoy the variety,” Ruth told News Of The Area.

Ruth volunteers at six different places.

Her week starts at the Westpac Helicopter Op Shop serving customers and sorting the donations, which she said is “a lot of fun”.

At the Neighbourhood Centre she works for Wesley Mission where she helps people complete their applications for food vouchers, as well as performing reception duties, helping people find what they are looking for in the Centre.

“Also in the Community Village I work for

the Coffs Harbour Family History Society.

“I work in the room as a monitor, helping people with their research and have recently become the Society’s treasurer,” she said.

Ruth has recently joined the Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society (ADFAS), a nationwide organisation who recently set up a Coffs Harbour branch.

On Sunday afternoons, Ruth works at the Cartoon Gallery on front of house duties, manning the shop and talking with visitors.

“Volunteering can be so rewarding,” said Ruth, who recommends taking a leaf out of her book and creating yourself a suite of volunteer roles.

“Volunteering grounds you and gives you a purpose,” she said.

Ari Herson, who hosted the OzHarvest stand at the Volunteer Expo, told Anna Joy the following day, “I just wanted to thank you for including OzHarvest in the expo.

“I think it was quite successful as we received a lot of interest from a number of suitable people.

“It also allowed connections with other agencies which could prove quite useful.”

The volunteer groups present were: Boambee East Community Centre, Coffs Harbour Uniting Church, Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, Coffs Coast Volunteers, Community Visitors Scheme, Linked To Life, Heartbeat City Mission, Justice Advocacy Services, Lifeline North Coast, Marine Rescue NSW Coffs Harbour, Tursa, Waratah Respite Centre, U3A, 2 Air FM, St Vincent de Paul, Lifehouse Care, Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour, Coffs Harbour Lions Club, Red Cross, OzHarvest and The National Cartoon Gallery. Volunteering Coffs Harbour runs out of Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre.

q Anna Joy opens the Seniors Volunteer Expo - Connecting for Life event.

q Ian Horncastle and Linda Alfred, SES volunteers.

q Coffs Harbour Marine Rescue members Graham, Sandra, Tony and Dusty (seated).

q Dave Wood, Uncle Richard Widders and Larry Langman from Landcare.

q Lexie Clark, Coffs Harbour Women’s Shed.

Sally Townley launches Independent campaign

By Andrea FERRARI

SALLY Townley’s campaign to stand as an Independent candidate in the NSW State Election was officially launched on Wednesday 8 February in the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.

Attracting a group of Coffs Coast residents, Sally shared highlights of her campaign.

She acknowledged Gumbaynggirr Elder Aunty Bea Ballangarry as “a special guest, a compassionate and inspiring awesome human”.

Ms Townley took the opportunity to introduce her policy platforms.

“Some things are of state-wide interest and a few issues are specific to our community on the Coffs Coast,” she said.

One of the broader issues is education.

“Our state education system is in a mess, with massive teacher shortages, thousands of vacancies and wages issues.

“Kids are missing out on the educational experience and on having more supervision and pastoral care, social and emotional support and schools are overcrowded,” she said.

She noted that Moonee Beach is opening up “hundreds and hundreds of new residential blocks” and that means potentially a couple of thousand more people living in that suburb.

“The Department of Education has owned property on the west side of the highway earmarked for a new school for decades and there’s no action there.

“I want to put that front and centre that the community of the Northern Beaches desperately needs that new primary school

to be fast tracked.”

Another state wide/nationwide issue playing out in Coffs Harbour is housing.

“Rental housing and mortgages becoming unaffordable is putting a great deal of stress on people.”

Ms Townley said there’s a lot the government can do to relieve housing pressures with real investment.

“Close to home, I want to put the Jetty Foreshore development front and centre as part of my campaign.

“Watching this space we have seen plan after plan where the government tries to come forward and basically convert that public open space into its own cash cow.

“All of us have been to that space, all of us have enjoyed picnics and walks on the beach and in the playground and admired the beautiful bush regeneration fostering that coastal ecosystem.

“That’s what that place is about.

“It ought not to become a private suburb.

“We’re seeing these plans dressed up as activations, saying this will be good for the community.

“In my opinion it’s a naked grab for that land to then convert it into high value real estate.

“I definitely think there’s more room for some forms of development at the Jetty but do it in keeping with what’s already there; maybe dining establishments, playgrounds,

bike paths, maybe some waterplay, things that enhance the existing values, but don’t convert it into an entirely different land use.”

Ms Townley concluded her launch by calling for transparency in government.

“Even as recently as the past couple of days with the parliamentary inquiry finding former NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro’s posting to a highly paid job in New York was evidently a ‘job for the boys’ appointment.

“If those people are supposedly leaders, what’s happening below that.

“How can you have faith in that, how can you have trust in that?” she posed.

“There’s been a couple of inquiries into how grants are administered.

“It’s very clear that it’s just a rort.

“Projects are being put forward on little merit at the expense of other projects which do meet the criteria and are getting shunted off the table just because they are in an opposition electorate.

“It makes a mockery of the whole system.”

q Sally Townley launches her campaign to contest the seat of Coffs Harbour in the upcoming State election.

q Dave Larson and Aunty Bea Ballangarry at Sally Townley’s Independent campaign launch.

Townley calls for Moonee School to be fast-tracked

By Andrea FERRARI

INDEPENDENT candidate for Coffs Harbour, Dr Sally Townley, has met with local families in Moonee Beach to hear their concerns about the elusive Moonee School which has never been built, despite the Department of Education owning a site for the proposed school for many years.

The parents met with Dr Townley on Tuesday morning 14 February, on the proposed school site.

“The Department of Education has owned this land for many years,” said Dr Townley.

“A new school at Moonee has been a sort of mythical creature for decades.

“It’s been talked about, but never seen.”

“We are seeing primary schools on the Northern Beaches bulging at the seams.

“We have huge housing developments underway.

“Moonee will see a population increase of a couple of thousand new people in the near future.

“The department needs to place this new school firmly on the list for delivery, servicing Kindergarten to Year 12 and start the planning work immediately,” she urged.

Dr Townley said the government has produced guidelines such as the North Coast Regional Plan which outlines planning responses to growing populations, but there is no mention of education and where all these new children will go to school.

“The various arms of government are not speaking to each other.

“Growth areas are expected to be welllocated and well-planned but there is no

commitment for the provision of schools.”

Children in the new Moonee residential area will be within the catchment for Kororo Public School, which already uses several demountable buildings.

“The case for the new school at Moonee has been clear for many years.

“It’s becoming critical that the government kick starts this project immediately.”

Dr Townley said if she is elected as the Member for Coffs Harbour in March she will do everything in her power to get this

Correction

By Andrea FERRARI

IN an editorial story, ‘Multi-language mental health help line’, published on page 10 of the 20 January 2023 edition of Coffs Coast News Of The Area, the operating hours of the STARTTS organisation were incorrectly listed.

STARTTS operates between 8.30am5pm, Monday to Friday.

It is important to note that STARTTS is not a 24/7 crisis centre/line and operates by appointment only.

“STARTTS has offices around NSW where clients can attend face-to-face by appointment,” Rebecca Blayney, Community Development Project Officer at STARTTS Coffs Harbour told NOTA.

STARTTS’ Witness to War Helpline is not by appointment and is open between 9.30am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday.

Also referring to the MICO project (Multilingual Info Co-Op), which serves the CALD communities in an efficient time frame that supports understanding of current emerging issues, is an initiative of Australian Red Cross, STARTTS and the Coffs Clarence Police Depart-

school on the list.

She said the development of new schools should be determined by need and the criteria should be clear.

She said that a report released by the Audit Office of NSW last year found that long-range planning by School Infrastructure NSW was lacking.

“Having suitable public schools for our children is fundamental for our communities.

“Investment in school infrastructure needs to keep pace with population growth

and it's astounding that this land has sat vacant for years while the surrounding suburbs are growing daily,” she said.

Finding there are many local families who have been advocating for a new school for years, whose calls have fallen on deaf ears, Dr Townley has committed to help them continue their quest “for this important piece of infrastructure”.

View the school infrastructure audit at www.audit.nsw.gov.au/our-work/reports/ delivering-school-infrastructure.

q Tuesday morning, 14 February, Moonee parents ask when the Department of Education will build their school.

q Sally Townley speaks out on the proposed Moonee School site.

q Locals in Moonee chat with Sally Townley about getting Moonee School fast-tracked to building.

WORKPLACE HUB

FROM Page 1

completed by 2025.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh announced on Monday 13 February that the local economy is set for a boost with the workplace hub in Coffs Harbour expected to create hundreds of new local jobs, gain efficiencies being under one roof and bring foot traffic into the CBD.

The NSW Government has purchased the site at 11 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour, currently an 89-space public carpark, from City of Coffs Harbour to deliver the approximately 5,100 square-metre NSW Government Workplace Hub.

“Establishment of the workplace hub is expected to generate more than $220 million for the local economy over three years by having more workers consistently in and around the CBD,” he said.

Mr Singh commented on the efficiencies gained through having the employees of different departments working in the same building, meaning they can easily meet more regularly.

“Another huge benefit of having decision makers based here in the regions is that these are the communities of these decision makers, they live in our communities so they’ll have our communities’ best interests at heart when they make their decisions,” he said.

“The project will create ongoing economic support for small businesses and local jobs with the design and construction phase alone expected to create almost 500 jobs for local tradies, apprentices and suppliers.”

Acknowledging the valued current usage of the space, the new development will also include approximately 89 public car parking spaces.

“Ensuring that the new development does not compromise the availability of existing public parking for the Coffs Harbour community,” said Mr Singh.

“The Government recognises the importance of strong regional economies to the state’s growth, and under the North Coast Regional Plan 2041, we are looking to centres like Coffs Harbour that will play a crucial role as key

places for employment.”

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said that Coffs Harbour is a key regional centre for NSW.

“That’s why we’re doing everything we can to diversify the local economy, boost jobs, and create growth well into the future,” he said.

“We want Coffs to be a great place to live, work and visit, and we want it to be a preferred destination for those wanting to relocate to regional NSW.”

Natalia Cowley, General Manager at City of Coffs Harbour, said, “It’s a great opportunity for the City Of Coffs Harbour, bringing activation into the region, and it is great to see this car park with 89 spaces turn into a workspace for 600 staff, further cementing Coffs Harbour as an important regional hub.

“It’s a great outcome to the community to keep the 89 car parking spaces, on a peppercorn lease, which will be available once again after the building is complete.”

Coffs Harbour businesswoman Nikki Williams told News Of The Area, “This is a hugely positive project for Coffs Harbour, (with the) NSW

Government bringing literally hundreds of permanent government jobs to our town.

“That’s hundreds more people shopping in the CBD, eating in our cafes and hopefully enjoying after work drinks at the local brewery and pubs.

“Most importantly hundreds of full-time secure jobs for our locals, school leavers and young adults right here in their own home town.

“I’ve seen a lot of concern about the lost parking which

is a shame as this is such a positive project for the people of Coffs.

“I feel the council announcement hasn’t done it justice; however it is clearly stated the same amount of car parking will remain open to the public once built and as a member of the CBD committee I do know further multi-level car parks have been investigated for years now so hopefully one day.

“’With Council's Compact City approach looking to encourage people to live in the CBD, the demand for

parking in the future will continue to grow.

“Ideally the money made will be spent wisely; perhaps council could commit the $3.2 million from the sale be used for a multi-level car park for workers in one of the spots that have been earmarked,” she said.

Find out more about the Coffs Harbour Workplace Hub at www.dpie.nsw.gov. au/housing-and-property/ our-business/commercialdevelopment-and-assetmanagement/coffsharbour-workplace-hub.

q Property and Development NSW representatives Kegan Shaw, Executive Director of Commercial Development Stace Fishwick, Director of Development Tanya Lanycia, Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh and City of Coffs Harbour General Manager Natalia Cowley.

q Coffs media hear the NSW Government announcement about its plans for a Government Workplace Hub.

q The site at 11 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour is currently an 89-space car park.

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Community Feedback Endorsed in City’s Economic Strategy

THE City of Coffs Harbour’s adopted Economic Strategy has been amended to reflect priorities highlighted by community feedback during consultation at the end of 2022.

The key issues raised were:

- Promoting environmental sustainability

- Supporting education and training

- Facilitating agriculture and food production

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- Encouraging place activation.

“We heard the community’s priorities and we’ve responded with a revised Strategy that reflects the issues they see as most important to help build a robust and resilient local economy,” said City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos.

“We now have a clear way forward that outlines the resources and solutions we’ll need to be able to face the social and environmental challenges in front of us.

“While the City of Coffs Harbour local government area supports traditional industries such as tourism and agriculture, the local economy is ready for development and ready to embrace emerging industries that will be important for our community moving forward.”

Three over-arching economic priorities underpin the revised Coffs Harbour Economic Development Strategy 2022-2027 with the goal of ensuring the best outcomes for business, visitors and individuals.

The key priorities of the Strategy are to:

- Attract and retain necessary skills, capability, investments and people

- Support local businesses, creating economic, social and environmental sustainability

- Develop existing and future business, industries and places to create a thriving economy.

“As a City, we are extremely well-placed to make the most of the exciting opportunities available in our region,” said Natalia Cowley, City of Coffs Harbour General Manager.

“Growing our existing businesses, attracting quality investment and supporting the development of new businesses and industry will further enhance our vibrant and growing City and help generate new jobs.”

Technical studies start for Jetty Foreshores masterplan

By Andrea FERRARI

TECHNICAL studies are being carried out over the next few months along the land at the Jetty to be used to develop the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores masterplan.

A spokesperson for the Department of Planning and Environment told News Of The Area, “Property and Development NSW (PDNSW) continues to work with the Department of Planning and Environment and stakeholders including The City of Coffs Harbour to refine the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore masterplan.

“Using the refined masterplan which was announced in December 2022 as a reference, PDNSW has engaged technical consultants to prepare studies to finalise the rezoning proposal.

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“The technical studies include but are not limited to traffic and transport, services and infrastructure planning, structure and geotechnical, hydrology, ecology, and visual impact.

“Preparation of these studies will start shortly and be used to develop the masterplan which will inform the rezoning proposal to be lodged with the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE).”

The submission is currently expected to be made mid-2023.

Once submitted the masterplan and all supporting studies will be available on the DPE’s website and responses will be received via the formal exhibition process.

Retired civil engineer Bruce Fidge, who has a keen interest in the development process

of the Jetty Foreshores masterplan, told NOTA, “This may now leave the way open to refine the plan in response to issues identified by the additional studies, which (in my opinion) is what should have been done in the first instance.

“I note they are doing a Geotech study.

“Does that include soil contamination which is identified as an important issue under EPA guidelines, for land that has been used previously for port, railway or industrial

purposes?” Bruce said.

“In the interest of transparency and to engage the community in the process, I hope they will be making a copy of the consultants’ brief/scope of works available for review.

“This will ensure all outstanding issues, for example contamination, are being addressed now rather than waiting six months when the reports are released and any omissions come to light.”

q Technical studies are to be carried out in line with the development of the Jetty Foreshores masterplan.

Council briefed on potential Coffs Bypass updates

By Andrea FERRARI

TRANSPORT for NSW provided a briefing to City of Coffs Harbour councillors on Wednesday 8 February, one of many Transport for NSW has provided to groups interested in potential changes to the detailed design of the Coffs Harbour bypass.

“The focus of the briefing with councillors was on design refinements to the Englands Road, Coramba Road and Korora Hill interchanges,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson told News Of The Area.

“The views of the council are obviously an important consideration.

“Transport for NSW is inviting submissions during its consultation on these design refinements and reminds anyone interested that submissions close on Monday 20 February.”

Playing its part in encouraging the community to speak up for what they want, about issues and concerns that will affect their homes with the new bypass and interchanges, is the Community Consultative Committee (CCC) for the Coffs

Harbour Bypass.

The CCC was set up in January 2019 prior to the March state election in that year, after the response by the community voicing its opinion about tunnels being replaced by cuttings in the Preferred Concept Design released in September 2018.

The Coffs Bypass Action Group (CBAG) was formed at the same time to inform those in the community who would be adversely affected with what was happening.

“We can proudly say that CBAG was very instrumental in the bid to reinstate the

tunnels,” Marina Rockett, the nominated representative on the Committee for CBAG, told News Of The Area.

“When forming the Committee, the Deputy Premier and the Minister for Transport at the time said, ‘It’s vital we have community representation at every step of the way through this process’ and ‘We need to get the best result for the community, which is why the consultative committee will now recruit local community members to drive community engagement’.”

Since inception, the CCC meets generally every three months, and CBAG has regularly asked questions regarding noise issues which is believed will have the biggest impact on the communities along the new route.

“Our mission statement has always been ‘To ensure the best outcome is achieved for the Coffs Harbour Bypass for the benefit of the community at large’,” Marina said.

“The CCC has and will continue to play a big part in community engagement

and as a member of this committee, I will continue to work for the community as I have done for the past four years.”

Marina can be contacted at coffsbypassactiongroup@ gmail.com.

Community comments, concerns and suggestions regarding the refinements to the plans for the three interchanges mentioned above can be submitted to TfNSW by 20 February by visiting www. pacifichighway.nsw.gov.au/ coffsharbourbypass.

q Marina Rockett from the Coffs Harbour Bypass Action Group and Community Consultative Representative for the Coffs Bypass encourages community feedback to Transport for NSW by the cut-off date of 20 February 2023; seen here showing community members Ron and Dorothy Woodhill from Roselands Estate the new design for the Coramba Road Interchange.

q A render looking east towards the Coramba Road interchange.

q A render of what it will look like facing south from the Cunninghams' Bananas stall following construction of the proposed plan for the Coffs Bypass.

New report shows forestry carbon emissions higher than expected

By Andrew VIVIAN

A NEW report released last Thursday, titled ‘NSW Forest Carbon: An Effective Climate Change Solution’, shows that logging in New South Wales emits 3.6 million tonnes of carbon each year.

The report says that this equates to 840,000 cars, or the emissions from Australia’s aviation industry.

It complements another two reports which indicate that Victoria’s native forest logging industry emits 3 million tonnes of carbon each year, while logging in Tasmania emits 4.6 million tonnes.

The figures show that protecting native forests in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania would prevent 212 million tonnes of carbon from entering the atmosphere by 2050, the equivalent benefit of shutting down Australia’s dirtiest coal power plant for 22 years.

Dr Jennifer Sanger, from the Tree Projects, is the author of the three reports and says the results are alarming.

“I think many Australians would be shocked to find out that native forest logging is such a high emitting industry,” Dr Sanger said.

The reports were written in response to the lack of transparency in current emissions reporting requirements.

“Due to the way that emissions are reported, the emissions from native forest logging are not separated from the carbon dioxide absorbed by our forests,” said Dr Sanger.

“Only a net figure is reported, which masks the true level of forestry’s emissions.”

The NSW report states, ‘When forests are logged, two-thirds of the carbon is released

within two years.

‘Some of these carbon dioxide emissions will be recovered as some native forests regrow after logging.

‘However, it takes many decades to centuries for forests to capture lost carbon’.

Dr Sanger’s report says that two-thirds of the forest’s carbon is released within a few years, while the remainder can take up to 50 years to be emitted.

It says that, when a native forest is logged, two-thirds of the carbon is released within two years because most wood removed from the forest is wood chipped and turned into shortlived products like paper and cardboard.

The burning of waste left on-site and mill waste also releases greenhouse gases immediately.

It acknowledges that sawn timber has the longest lifespan of up to 90 years, but claims this only makes up four to eight percent of the forest’s carbon.

Although forests that are logged are regrown, it can take decades, or longer, to recapture the emitted carbon.

“We need to act now on climate change and for Australia, this means ending native forest logging,” Dr Sanger said.

She said protecting forests is a low-cost, effective and immediate way to achieve emissions reduction.

q What happens to the carbon in logged native forests. Photo: Jennifer Sanger.

“If the Australian Government wants to get serious about climate change then they need to act on this issue.”

The reports can be found at www. thetreeprojects.com/forestcarbon.

Pat Conaghan expresses priority visa concerns

By Andrew VIVIAN

PAT Conaghan, the Member for Cowper, claims that the Federal Government has imposed red tape that results in nurses, disability support workers, teachers and doctors being unfairly prevented from accessing priority visa processing.

NSW taxi licence reforms – taxi licence transition support available for operators of a taxi service

The NSW Point to Point Transport Commissioner’s team will be in Coffs Harbour on Friday 24 February 2023.

The Commissioner’s team will be visiting Coffs Harbour on Friday 24 February to provide information and one on one support for individuals or businesses operating a taxi service (taxi licence holders).

Team members will be available from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm to answer questions and provide one on one 15 minute sessions to assist members of the industry transition to a new taxi licence. To book your 15 minute session, please visit the Point to Point Transport Commissioner’s website at pointtopoint.nsw.gov.au.

Location

C.ex Coffs

2-6 Vernon Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2068

Time 10:00 am – 2:30 pm

For more information on the NSW taxi licence reforms please visit our website.

Point to Point Transport Commissioner LP0487

He has called on the Government to immediately reverse its decision to impose what he says is a ‘defacto regional processing penalty’ on skilled workers in priority sectors hoping to take up one of thousands of jobs that need to be filled in regional communities.

Mr Conaghan said thousands of critical workers are being unfairly denied prioritisation of visas because they want to live in regional areas.

He said by failing to recognise the ‘Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887)’ in its prioritisation, the Government is effectively encouraging skilled workers to move exclusively to major cities.

According to Mr Conaghan, the issue stems from Immigration Minister Andrew Giles’ Ministerial Direction No. 100, which directed that ‘Visa applications in relation to a healthcare or teaching occupation’ would receive the top priority for processing.

However, Mr Conaghan claims Mr Giles’ direction did not account for applications for the Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887), resulting in applications for the ‘SkilledRegional visa’ being put at the bottom of the pile, even if the candidate wants to take up a critical role such a nurse, disability support worker or GP.

He said this has been confirmed in official correspondence from the Department of Immigration which states:

‘Please note that subclass 887 visa applications are not made in relation to a specific occupation and therefore fall within priority 5 – All other visa applications’.

The Home Affairs website indicated 90 percent of ‘Skilled - Regional visa (subclass 887)’ visas are being processed in 27 months and information released under FOI indicates there could be as many as 19,000 SkilledRegional visas awaiting processing by the Department.

“I’m calling on the Albanese Government to immediately process these critical visas,” Mr Conaghan said.

“Access to health care and education continue to be two of the most crucial issues regional communities face, and the Mid North Coast is feeling this acutely.

“Our community deserves better than being relegated to the slow lane of visa processing.”

A spokesperson for the Home Affairs Department said that skilled migration visa applications are processed according to priorities set through Ministerial Directions and priority is accorded to applicants from outside Australia to encourage them to enter Australia and join the labour force.

According to the spokesperson, the Federal Government understands that many parts of regional Australia are experiencing labour shortages and skills gaps and is committed to supporting industries and employers in regional Australia to support ongoing economic growth.

The Department says it has finalised over four million temporary and migration applications, compared to slightly more than 788,000 in 2021-22.

The subclass 887 visa is the second stage of a two stage visa – it is only available to people who already hold an eligible provisional visa who are already working and living in regional Australia.

The spokesperson said that, while subclass 887 visa applicants already hold visas with work rights, either a provisional visa or a bridging visa that allows work, the Government is actively seeking to address this situation, to continue progress made on reducing visa backlogs.

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Coutts Crossing water restrictions a cause for concern

By Andrew VIVIAN

CONSERVATIONISTS have been warning for a while that current logging practices could lead to contamination of drinking water supplies.

With the Clarence Valley Council asking Coutts Crossing residents to boil their tap water and residents across the Clarence Valley being asked to restrict town water consumption in line with Level 4 (Severe) Water Restrictions to avoid an LGAwide boil water alert, local conservationists say they have been vindicated.

The Council attributes contamination of the Nymboida River to ‘recent rain events’ and the bushfires.

Currently, its water storage is being supplemented by accessing a return flow from Karangi Dam in Coffs Harbour.

Mark Graham from the Dorrigo Koala Alliance said, “The Coffs Clarence Regional Water supply provides drinking water for all coastal municipal residents and for industries between Sawtell and Yamba.

This $200 million infrastructure is critically reliant upon water quality and baseflow from the forests of

the Dorrigo Plateau across the Bobo, Little Nymboida, Little Murray, Nymboida and Blicks River catchments.”

Large swathes of public native forest and plantation have been clear-felled across this catchment area since the fires, including 68ha of native forest (much of it a nationally significant Koala hub) at Wild Cattle Creek State Forest that is disputed plantation, according to Mr Graham.

“The massive industrial logging done by Forestry Corporation has removed all vegetation cover from and destabilised entire landscapes across tens of square kilometres of the regional water supply catchment,” Mr Graham said.

“This has caused massive sediment contamination (and herbicide runoff) into the Nymboida and Blicks Rivers that are the main drainages providing for the regional water supply off-take into Shannon Creek.”

“The suggestion that recent sedimentation is due to the fires is simply not borne out by the on ground evidence.”

Mr Graham said this has been verified and validated by helicopter surveys and is

visible from space.

A Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) spokesperson said, “Protecting the health of waterways is a priority during forestry operations and more than four decades of monitoring data has consistently demonstrated that the water from State forests is among the best in the landscape.

“Forestry Corporation complies with strict environmental conditions and research, published by the University of New England,

has demonstrated that these best practice measures effectively protect water quality.

“Operations are also independently regulated by the Environment Protection Authority to ensure compliance.”

The spokesperson said that the catchment for the Little Nymboida River includes agricultural land as well as State Forests and conservationists’ pictures appear to show surface runoff from roads, which is occurring

across all land holdings at the moment as soils are saturated due to ongoing wet conditions associated with the La Nina weather pattern.

Ulong resident Mark Daniels is not entirely in agreement, having examined contamination from logging operations for several years.

He has noted that dirt roads above the Little Nymboida River have been very busy with logging trucks and has tracked sediment flows from the road down to the river.

Mr Daniels is not only concerned about drinking water, but also the danger posed by sediment, agricultural practices and residues from logging operations to local platypus, other animals and fish.

He said that he has raised issues with the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), with little success.

Mr Daniels, Mr Graham and many other Coffs Coast locals are wondering when their mounting evidence will be taken seriously.

q A logging and pesticide warning at Wild Cattle Creek State Forest.

Photo: Mark Graham.

q Sediment runs from the road towards the Little Nymboida River. Photo: Mark Daniels.

Call for Emerald Beach Fair sponsors

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Emerald Beach Fair is back on Saturday 3 June 2023, and with the announcement of the date comes a call from the committee for sponsors.

“The Fair wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of sponsors,” Sherrie Rutherford, Chair of the Emerald Beach Fair Committee told News Of The Area.

“Expressions of interest

are now open for local businesses who wish to make the most of this opportunity.

“A kind donation will gain your business extensive local exposure throughout the Fair’s marketing campaign.

“If you would like to support this local, familyfriendly event, please contact the Committee at emeraldbeachcommittee@ gmail.com,” she said.

The Emerald Beach Fairs have traditionally been a

great success with attendees and raise money for the good of the community.

“The Emerald Beach Fair Committee is run by hardworking volunteers, and funds raised are part of a longer-term platform of giving back to the local community,” said Sherrie.

“Funds raised in 2022 have been used to purchase a new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) which will be located outside Surf

Street Café.”

Sam Allinson, Wellbeing Officer for the Emerald Beach Fair Committee said, “The donation of this defibrillator through the funds raised from the 2022 Emerald Beach Fair extends lifesaving technology to our local community and visitors, offering a better chance of survival in the case of sudden cardiac arrest.

“The Emerald Beach Fair takes place on and around the beach and celebrates all the local entrepreneurship,

creativity, culture and cheeky personalities of this exceptional Coffs Coast village,” said Sherrie.

“This year we are celebrating the resilience of a community, our multicultural connections and local history.

“We are looking forward to building on the success of the 2022 Fair with amazing food from some of Emerald Beach’s finest, local artisan markets, family-friendly activities and a great music line-up.

Draft Movement and Place Strategy open for comment

By Andrew VIVIAN

COFFS Coast residents

are urged to contribute to the Draft Coffs Harbour Movement and Place Strategy, which has been led by the City of Coffs Harbour in collaboration with Transport for NSW and NSW Government agencies.

The Draft Strategy outlines the design, planning and delivery of transport networks over the next 20 years and locals are being asked to help shape how the Council can improve the

way people travel around the local government area (LGA) – whether that’s walking, cycling, driving or catching a bus – and how the streets can be made even more attractive places to live and work.

It is now out for comment until close of business on 27 February 2023.

Chris Chapman, City of Coffs Harbour Director Sustainable Communities, said, “We’re aiming to capitalise on the opportunities opening up in the coming years to revitalise and improve our

neighbourhoods and retail areas through the use of technology and transport choices.

“We want to be smart about how we move people.

“We want to make it safe and convenient for people to walk, cycle or catch a bus and create spaces where our kids can scoot to school and seniors can get around easily.

“The draft strategy doesn’t drill down into plans for individual areas; it’s about setting a direction to achieve our aims, so we want to hear what the people who

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will be travelling through, or living around our local streets want to see happen.”

Mr Chapman said it is important to make clear that the Strategy is the big picture and any projects undertaken based on the Strategy’s goals are subject to the City being able to secure the necessary funding.

The Draft Coffs Harbour Movement and Place Strategy sets out a number of goals summarised as 10 Big Moves, which include supporting ‘15-minute neighbourhoods’, improving our walking and cycling networks, investing in our blue and green grid,

improving our public transport services and planning for beyond the Bypass

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said, “With big changes on the horizon for our local transport network, the Draft strategy looks to set a future direction for our city.

“I encourage all Coffs Coast residents to have their say.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the plan would map out future transport in the Coffs Harbour Region.

“The NSW Government is getting on with building the

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“This is really going to be a special day; we certainly look forward to seeing you there,” said Sherrie.

The Emerald Beach Fair is on Saturday 3 June from 8.30am to 7.00pm.

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infrastructure that matters to make daily life easier for people travelling in and around Coffs Harbour.

“The new Coffs Harbour Bypass will reduce congestion through the CBD and support the goals outlined in this draft Coffs Harbour Draft Movement and Place Strategy.”

Residents can provide their thoughts via an online survey and submissions form on the Have Your Say website at www. haveyoursay.coffsharbour. nsw.gov.au/movement-andplace-strategy, by email to coffs.council@chcc.nsw.gov. au or by sending written comments to Locked Bag 155, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.

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q Emerald Beach Fair Committee members Sherrie Rutherford, Tianne Albrow and Sam Allinson, who owns Surf Street Café, with local resident and landlord of the Surf St Café, Carol Walsh.

q It’s up, the new Automated External Defibrillator is fixed in place on the wall at Surf Street Café, Emerald Beach.

Boosting teacher numbers in the regions

By Andrew VIVIAN

SARAH Mitchell, the Minister for Education and Early Learning, has recently announced several strategies to increase the number of teachers in New South Wales.

The Grow Your Own Teacher Training program, which the State Government says is ‘an innovative approach to teacher training in regional NSW’ and ‘has proven wildly successful’ is now being doubled to accommodate demand from aspiring teachers.

The program was initially planned to support up to 100 School Learning Support Officers (SLSOs) to upskill and study teaching degrees while working in local schools, and the Government says its popularity now means the program will double to 200 participants in 2023 alone, with another 300 set to commence in 2024 and 2025.

Ms Mitchell said the program is part of a range of

programs to diversify teacher supply, with SLSOs remaining employed in their school while they complete their study.

“Our regions are incredible places to live and work, and now thanks to this program more people can train to become teachers without leaving their local communities,” Ms Mitchell said.

“This program is about modernising teaching pathways in NSW and encouraging people already working in our schools to take the next step by becoming a teacher.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the program’s success was no surprise and was a big win for local students, with Coffs Harbour High School participating in the program.

“Our support staff have strong ties to our local community and are already doing fantastic work supporting students in our schools,” Mr Singh said.

“This program is removing barriers for them to pursue their dream of becoming a teacher without having to travel away from home, so it’s no wonder it’s proving so popular.”

Peter South, Principal of Coffs Harbour High School, said the program was a great idea.

“Not only are we nurturing talent in the school, participants' study while they work,” Mr South said.

“We have other School Learning Support Officers moving through that might be possible future candidates.

“Anything we can do to help increase the number of qualified teachers in the classroom is welcome.”

The NSW Department of Education has partnered with Charles Sturt University and Western Sydney University to deliver the Grow Your Own Teacher Training program.

Participants receive a $10,000 training allowance per year (up to $30,000 for the degree) and can work

part-time as an educational paraprofessional in their final four semesters of study.

The Grow Your Own Teacher Training program is complemented by the Grow Your Own Community Entry Pathway, which encourages year 12 students and community members living in rural and regional areas to explore a career in teaching.

The Government says the strategy will deliver 3,700 teachers with the right subject qualifications placed in locations of need over the next ten years and, in just over a year, it has delivered 460 current and trainee teachers.

Also, the Minister said new financial packages will make it easier for teachers to take jobs at regional schools and settle in communities.

The incentives will include $10,000 to help cover stamp duty costs when buying a home in their new school community.

Ms Mitchell said a new ‘Support for Rural

Jaanymili: Gather and Sing in Gumbaynggirr

By Andrea FERRARI

A GUMBAYNGGIRR community singing event is happening for what Uncle Micklo Jarrett believes is a first in modern times.

The ‘Jaanymili – Gather and Sing’ event takes place in Bellingen’s St Andrews Hall on Hyde Street on Sunday 26 February from 3pm – 5pm.

Speaking as one of the organisers, alongside Ilka Schroeder and Luke Rhodes, Uncle Micklo told News Of The Area, “In these times of getting over Covid, when we couldn’t get together and sing, we are bringing people together to enjoy themselves using music, singing and Gumbaynggirr language.”

Playing on the day, the Gunganbu band features ukulele, harmonium, keyboard, cello, electric keyboard and Micklo on guitar.

“It’s a gathering, it’s a gig and we’ll sing songs together.”

Micklo is keen to encourage everyone to come and have fun, describing the style of singing as similar to Indian kirtan, with a call and response format.

“It’s sing and repeat.

“We’ll make it easy and teach people along the way, and the main thing is to have fun and laugh.

“Just get there and open your mouth and open your heart,” said Micklo. No one is expected to

know the Gumbaynggirr language on the day but there is every likelihood they will know some by the time they leave.

The group plans to have the words on a butcher paper flip chart as a guide.

“We want to create an atmosphere of togetherness around a tight-knit community.

“Getting over the past, music is now happening everywhere, and we encourage everyone to join in,” said Micklo.

Just turn up and join in by donation.

For more information visit www.facebook. com/events/s/ jaanymili-gather-andsing/1026972104947434/.

Beginners’ program has also been introduced to provide hundreds of early career teachers with access to a range of supports to help them settle into their community and make local connections.

“We want to reduce the level of social isolation experienced by new teachers who have moved to the country and improve retention by encouraging them to build a sense of belonging in their communities,” Ms Mitchell said.

“The program includes a one-off financial incentive of $600 to be used towards building social connections such as registering with a local sporting team, signing up for art classes or even having coffee with new friends.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said, “Regional, rural and remote communities are an incredible place to live, work, and raise a family.

"That is why we are providing additional support to help cover the costs of teachers moving to our communities, and support to help them buy a home so they can put down roots,” Mr Toole said.

The NSW Teachers’ Federation is not quite as positive about the strategies. Its Regional Coordinator, Ian Watson said, “It’s a part of the Government’s $125m teacher supply strategy which continues to be an expensive failure.”

The Federation says that early-career teachers are leaving the profession at a thirteen-year high and two thirds of teachers are burnt out and are considering leaving.

“The profession needs to be attractive for all, not just SLSOs, and, until we get tangible action to reduce workload and increase pay, students will continue to have their education negatively impacted,” Mr Watson said.

q Jaanymili - Gather and Sing organisers and Gunganbu band members, Ilka Schroeder, Uncle Micklo Jarrett and Luke Rhodes look forward to singing with you.

Changed traffic conditions on Charlesworth Bay Drive at Korora

MOTORISTS are advised of changed traffic conditions on Charlesworth Bay Road, Korora from Monday 13 February for service relocation as part of early work for the Coffs Harbour bypass. Work will be carried

out from Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm on up to 13 days over five months, weather permitting.

Changed traffic conditions may also be in place out of work hours.

Directly impacted residents

will be notified prior to night work occurring.

There will be a partial road closure exiting Charlesworth Bay Road onto the Pacific Highway. During work, traffic exiting the Pacific Highway will still be able to use Charlesworth

Bay Road.

Traffic entering the Pacific Highway from Charlesworth Bay Road will be diverted via Macauleys Headland Drive.

Vehicles will be able to use Mastracolas Road roundabout near Park Beach Plaza to travel north.

Traffic control and a reduced speed limit of

40km/hour will be in place during work to ensure the safety of workers and motorists.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

Pedestrians and cyclists may experience a change in user path conditions during this work. Traffic control

will be in place to escort pedestrians safely through the work area.

Transport for NSW thanks motorists and users of the shared path for their patience during this time.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Momentum provides positive outcomes for Aboriginal people

By Andrea FERRARI

MOMENTUM, a program actively changing the lives of Aboriginal people, officially launched at the Coffs Harbour Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Wongala Estate on Tuesday 7 February.

A pioneering project, Momentum combines the services of three local organisations.

Pathfinders provides the support to get a person’s birth certificate, Ace Community Colleges guides people to gain their driver’s licence and Real Futures helps with employment, all in collaboration with the NSW Government.

“The Momentum program is a collaboration of services that help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to obtain their birth certificate, obtain their driver’s licence and support them into job placements and employment,”

Momentum Program

Manager John Clancy told News Of The Area.

According to Pathfinders CEO Alan Brennan there are hundreds of thousands of Aboriginal people without a birth certificate, a vital document which allows a person to vote, open a bank

account or get a driver’s licence.

“Without a birth certificate people cannot vote and essentially they don’t exist according to Australian statistics, they find it hard to get a job and cannot get a driver’s licence,” Alan said.

ACE Community Colleges help Aboriginal people learn the road rules, get their learner driving hours up and provide practical support to pass the provisional licence test.

Natalie Hannah, ACE Community Colleges told NOTA, “Momentum is a wonderful program and will

empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through job readiness, training services and employment.

“Real Futures works one-on-one with people to help them prepare for work with skills and confidence,” Real Futures’ Steven Clarke told NOTA.

of the three services has huge potential to positively change people’s lives.”

Real Futures is a majority Aboriginal-owned and staffed company which

“We also connect people with local job opportunities and support them and their employer as they settle into their new job.”

Aunty Yvette Pacey, Chair

of the Garlambirla GuuyuGirrwaa (Coffs Harbour Aboriginal Elders group), gave a traditional Welcome to Country at the program launch, paying respects to Gumbaynggirr people and nation.

She also congratulated Momentum on their new collaboration.

“Working for positive outcomes creates stepping stones of support for the progression of our people and creates outcomes to open doors for our people.

“Each and every one of you is a role model for other Aboriginal people.”

Aunty Yvette thanked Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh for attending.

“This is a great offering to have all these services under one roof and coming out to where the people are, not in the centre of town,” Mr Singh told the gathering.

“The State Government supports this initiative and its growth into more regional areas.”

Anthony Manny Fogarty Wood

q Momentum – a new collaboration between Pathfinders, ACE Community Colleges and Real Futures – launches at Coffs Harbour Lands Council, Wongala Estate.

q The Real Futures sign-up desk at the Momentum program launch in Coffs Harbour.

q The sign-up day saw ACE Community Colleges gathering names for its driver’s licence program.

q The Real Futures team welcomes people to the Momentum launch day.

q Supporting the Momentum sign-up day was Kylie Hampshire (left) and Kellee Morris (right) from ETC recruitment employment with Gabby Gow, Coffs Harbour Bypass team.

Bello Deputy Mayor talks new Rural LEP, improving communications, local roads

By Andrea FERRARI

DORRIGO resident Cr Joanne Cook continues to support the Bellingen community as the re-elected Deputy Mayor of the Shire.

A Nurse Unit Manager in the Operating Theatre at Bellingen Hospital, Cr Cook is honoured to be elected for a second term.

Cr Cook said it has been a privilege getting out and meeting local people who really want to see their community thrive and is looking forward to supporting Mayor Steve Allan and representing the communities.

Passionate about the Community Vision set out by Bellingen Shire, Cr Cook told NOTA, “I’m excited to see the town masterplans progress for Urunga and Dorrigo.

“The Place for People section of the Community Vision touches on this, planning for infrastructure, road safety, open spaces, schools, and footpaths is important for our towns.

“I am also keen to be involved in the upcoming revision of the Rural Local Environmental Plan (LEP), which will ensure land use strategies identify, protect, manage, and reinforce rural activities, industry, and agribusiness throughout our Shire.”

Cr Cook has said in the past that communication across the Shire needed attention.

“I feel that since the current council has been elected this has improved greatly.

“Both Bellingen Council and the Councillors’ interaction through social media has improved.

“Obviously, social media isn’t the be-all and endall, but I feel that this is a great start and the public seem to be more informed of the updates, challenges, operations, and process that the council goes through on a day-to-day basis, now more than ever.”

Another important issue on Jo’s radar is the state of the

local roads.

“Everyone in the Shire is impacted by roads and potholes, it would be remiss not to mention this.

“The operational team is working hard to fix these, whilst also doing planned upgrades and maintenance.

“With our rainfall and budget restraints, I feel like it’s a hard gig.

“Bellingen Shire Council continues to advocate for State and Federal Government funding to fix the damage done, but I guess we all know that nearly every Shire in the state has these same challenges, and there are a lot of hands out for that additional funding.”

q Councillor Jo Cook, re-elected as Bellingen Shire Deputy Mayor, with the stunning backdrop of local artist Guy Crosley’s mosaic created with members of the Dorrigo community.

q Bellingen Shire’s re-elected Deputy Mayor, Cr Jo Cook. Photo: Jack Meagher Photography.

Old Mate’s Burgers launch campaign for Pete’s Place

By Andrea FERRARI

OLD Mate's Burgers celebrate Valentine's Day with a twist.

Taking the whole of February to share the love, Old Mate’s Burgers’ husband-and-wife owners, Christopher and Louise Wilson, are sizzling their way through their 'Pay it Forward to Pete's Place' campaign to give back to the local community.

Kicking off last year, the campaign essentially facilitates people paying for a burger in advance for someone in need attending Pete’s Place.

For every burger bought-forward, the Old Mate’s Burgers team will cook it up on Burger Day at Pete’s Place on Tuesday 28 February.

The campaign goal this year is 120 burgers.

Louise Wilson told News Of The Area, “The campaign is going really well so far.

“As of today, Friday 10 February, we have sold 21 cheeseburgers.

“One of our suppliers, PFD, has donated beef mince for patties which takes us to

31 cheeseburgers. “We have also spoken with other suppliers who donated buns and flavoured milk last year and they will be supplying us again this year,” she said.

When Christopher and Louise took over the

business seven years ago, they wanted to use it to make a difference in the community.

One of their core values is ‘Support Local, Act Global’, sourcing supplies locally as much as possible and supporting local charities.

“Christopher had seen a story years ago about Pete’s Place and wanted to do something to help.

“He met with Anna, the director at Pete’s Place, a few years ago and asked how we could help.

“That started a relationship where we would donate food items.

“This turned into donating a box of fruit (with ADVEG) every week.

“Last year I had the idea that instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day, we could celebrate ‘Love Month’ and show some love to those in our community doing it tough.”

They spoke to Anna about a ‘Pay it Forward’ campaign for a Burger Day at Pete’s Place and she loved the idea.

“Our customers and suppliers jumped on board and it was brilliant.”

With all parties excited to do Burger Day again in 2023, they are hoping that this year won’t be in torrential rain like in 2022.

Anna has organised One Mob Radio to come along and there will be a coffee van.

“We’ll be cooking up a stack of cheeseburgers and giving away flavoured milks.

“I believe Aussies are

mostly extremely generous and want to help and make a difference.

“Often, they just don’t know how.

“Pay it Forward to Pete’s Place gives them a way to do this,” she said.

An Old Mate’s Burgers junior staff member’s mum told NOTA, “Homelessness is unfortunately an experience my family had to endure during 2020/2021.

“With the growing rental crisis, we soon realised how easy it was for anyone to suddenly be thrown in with that experience.

“The mental and financial strain it places on you is indescribable.

“Having a son that works in a business that believes in paying it forward is a beautiful feeling.

“I am filled with pride that he can get behind such a worthy cause, supporting those during the hardest times of their life.

“I know it’s often overwhelming to think of how you can help people during those times, but even the smallest gestures can be such a morale booster for those experiencing crisis.

“With so many of our Coffs locals now enduring homelessness, it’s so important we try to bring a little joy in any way we can.

“I absolutely love the idea of Love Month at Old Mate’s Burgers, and whilst we are still financially recovering, will do our small part and pay it forward.

“I know first-hand how much the smallest of gestures mean during those times.”

Louise added that demand for Pete’s Place services was growing.

“Anna, from Pete’s Place, told us at the start of February that those accessing their services had increased dramatically in the past twelve months.

“They are now averaging 90 clients per day with a noticeable increase in families accessing their services.” Accommodation and food are the most pressing needs.

“She expressed great concern at not having enough food for the people.”

People can donate a cheeseburger for $12 or anything as small as $2 either in-store at Old Mate's Burgers, Orlando St, or via the Old Mate's Burgers website during February at www.oldmatesburgers. com.

On February 28 2023, Old Mate's Burgers will head to Pete’s Place and cook donated cheeseburgers for the clients.

q Christopher and Louise Wilson, the owners of Old Mate’s Burgers, at last year’s Pete’s Place Burger Day during Love Month.

q Burger Day at Pete’s Place saw over 100 burgers cooked and consumed on the day.

q Christopher will get behind the BBQ for the loved-up Burger Day at Pete’s Place.

Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre launches program for 2023

By Andrea FERRARI

AN extended range of activities is now on offer as the Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre launches its 2023 program.

Activities on offer include pilates, scrap booking, indoor bowls, table tennis, art classes, craft group, knitting for the Wrapped with Love program, yoga, Rummikub, line dancing and weekly morning tea on a Wednesday.

New in 2023 is a Seat Beats Dance Class, which offers the chance to show

your moves to favorite tunes whilst sitting down, and Fit Bits, a session which promotes gentle muscle work and stretching.

“Let’s not forget the luncheons we have for Melbourne Cup, Christmas and any other reason we can find to celebrate, all catered for by a loyal and dedicated group of Committee Members and helpers,” Pamela Berry, spokesperson for Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre told News Of The Area.

“That’s as well as utilising our amazing twelve-seater

bus, which is used on a regular basis to transport members to theatre productions, Seniors Morning Tea Movie Club at BCC cinema each month and day trips to surrounding towns as well as overnight stays when drivers are available,” she said.

Pam shared with NOTA her journey of finding Woolgoolga Senior’s Centre and what she gets out of being a member.

“Once you turn the age of 55 years you start to enter the senior age demographic according to the Service NSW website.

“So, for anyone out there who is trying to avoid the truth, all I can say is, there have been many who have done the same and realised that kind of thinking is not going to work.

“I am a very proud member of Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre and equally proud to have just turned 72 in October (2022).

“When I first moved to Woolgoolga I used to walk past the Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre often on my way to the village and would wonder what went on inside.

“I hastily assumed that it would be a very long time before I needed whatever was offered from within those

walls.”

One day she decided to go in to check things out, “just in case”.

To her surprise there were heaps of things on offer back then as there are today.

“The Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre has come a long way since the beginning in 1999 when Woolgoolga Rotary Club member Cel Rogers, along with many other members of the community, agreed it was essential for Woolgoolga to have somewhere for its seniors to meet and take part in various activities.”

Construction started in early 2003 and the Centre opened on 3 May 2004.

Since those early days the Centre has been

offering Woolgoolga’s senior community a variety of activities.

“So, if you are new to the area or new to being a Senior Citizen and interested or concerned about what to do next, check out the Woolgoolga Seniors Centre in Boundary Street and collect a list of the many activities you could participate in and expand your horizons in 2023 or maybe be part of the merry little band of regular volunteers, or even consider becoming a member on one of our sub-committees,” said Pam.

For more information, phone 6654 7311 or visit www. woolgoolgaseniorscentre. blogspot.com.

Park Assist* Never drive past a tight spot again

You’ve spent all this time anxiously avoiding parallel parks and the judging stares that come with them. So, it’s perfectly normal to want to kick yourself for not discovering Park Assist sooner. Especially when you realise that it not only spots parallel parks, but then parks for you, all without you ever touching the wheel.

q Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre members using the group’s twelveseater bus to get out and about to shows and places of interest.

Woolgoolga Seniors’ Centre.

Quick, it’s Bunnings' Friday BBQ

By Andrea FERRARI

HOT foot it down to Bunnings Coffs Harbour for the Sawtell Rotary Club BBQ on Friday 17 February between 9am and 4pm.

The BBQ is dedicated to providing support for those affected by the recent earthquake in Turkey.

The Club has committed to providing a disaster-ready $1,000 ShelterBox to this cause.

Sawtell Rotarian Alan Freedman said, “At the Bunnings BBQ we will be sizzling sausage sandwiches and of course selling soft drinks.

“Rotary International is always ready to assist events such as this and put out details as to how clubs can help.

“Being International

Director as well as Youth,

I am keen for this to occur and the Board agreed unanimously,” said Alan.

ShelterBox and Rotary are official project partners in International Disaster Relief.

ShelterBox is a charity that hand-delivers aid to families devastated by conflict or natural disaster, to give them safe shelter and the tools to rebuild communities.

They have a global network of supporters, staff and volunteers who make it possible to deliver aid to some of the most remote communities in the world.

ShelterBox provides aid that is tailored to meet the needs of a community after a specific disaster.

The aid they supply comes in the form of ShelterBoxes and ShelterKits.

The sturdy green ShelterBoxes contain

family-sized tents specially designed to withstand the elements and provide people with temporary shelter until they can start the process of rebuilding a home.

The ShelterKits contain all the essential tools people need to start repairing and rebuilding homes straight away.

The kits and boxes also contain the items that help

transform shelter into a home, like cooking sets, solar lights and activity sets for children.

Any Rotary Club would be happy to pass on your donations, however the ShelterBox website has a direct link for payments.

The list of products and amounts needed below is a guide to what people can contribute to: ShelterBox

OzGREEN’s Thrive Festival seeks volunteers

By Andrea FERRARI

THRIVE Festival, a new

OzGREEN initiative that sets out to celebrate the region’s crafts, trades, skills, natural resources and community spirit, is on Saturday 4 March 8.30am until 4.00pm at Bellingen Showground and offers a range of activities throughout Sunday 5 March in and around Bellingen.

Running at the same time as the regular Bellingen Growers and Poultry Market, Thrive Festival will involve all sectors of the Shire; community groups, emergency services, food producers, Gumbaynggirr elders, health professionals, renewable energy experts, weather watchers, environmentalists and more.

Thrive Festival is funded through a grant from the State Government’s Reconnecting Regional NSW – Community Events Program via Bellingen Shire Council.

OzGREEN's Resilient Communities Program Manager, Kathleen Hannah said, "Community resilience means different things to different people.

“At OzGREEN, we believe that community resilience is about linking people together so that they can share local knowledge and take personal and collective action to prepare for future disasters that may affect them.

“The festival program is jam packed with a variety of unique and exciting activities that cover a holistic range of important topics such as water, food, energy, ecosystem and economic

security,” she said. There will also be a focus on how to prepare for future disasters such as fire and flood, as well as a variety of

mental health and wellbeing activities.

The Thrive Festival team is now calling for volunteers to help with a range of roles.

ShelterBox is a registered

“Volunteering is at the heart of our community, with many organisations relying on the generosity, kindness and energy that volunteers bring,” Kathleen told News Of The Area.

“Come and join the Thrive team and help us deliver this incredible community event and you just might end up discovering a new sense of purpose, fulfilment, inclusion and/or connection.

“Volunteering gives us the opportunity to help others but often we get back more than we give,” she said.

Thrive Festival was envisioned by a group of passionate people living in Bellingen Shire at a weekend workshop run by Bellingen Shire Council in November 2020.

Mid-pandemic and not too long after the bushfires, local residents were given opportunities to discuss ways to build community resilience.

One of the recommendations resulting from the workshop was to run a shire wide community event that would strengthen networks and provide people with access to skills, tools and resources to prepare for future disasters.

OzGREEN's Festival Coordinator Alexandra Moller said, "We've worked really hard over the last few months to make sure there's something for everyone at Thrive.

“There's interactive skill building workshops, talks and demonstrations by emergency services, visioning sessions, mental health activities, panel discussions, Gumbaynggirr storytelling, entertainment, stalls and lots of fun activities for kids.

"We're really looking forward to bringing so many people across the community together,” Alexandra added.

A key objective of Thrive Festival is to rebuild the

community following a series of disasters and to prepare for future challenges that lie ahead.

Another important aspect of the festival is to bring new and long-time residents and community groups together in an all-inclusive way.

OzGREEN's Partnerships Manager Anna Juodvalkis said, "Bellingen Shire is full of talented people.

“Collectively we have everything we need to sustain a beautiful, happy and healthy place for many generations to come, but to do this, we all need to all work together.

“I'm really hoping that Thrive will enable and empower many different people living in Bellingen Shire to become active and involved in their community.”

To keep updated about Thrive Festival or to book into one of the Sunday tours and activities please visit www.ozgreen.org/thrive.

$1,000, Relief Tent $500, ShelterKit $100, Water Filter $50 and Solar light $50.

charity, independent of Rotary International and the Rotary Foundation.

q Sawtell Rotary members Alan Freedman and Ray Baldwin practicing for the big fundraiser on the Baldwin BBQ.

q Come and get a burger at Bunnings and support ShelterBox for Turkey’s earthquake victims.

q Gumbaynggirr artist Bernard Kelly-Edwards hosts creative workshops at Thrive Festival.

q Herbs for resilience - learn how to live well through the use of herbs.

q Thrive Festival will host bushcraft workshops.

q Gumbaynggirr elders Uncle Martin and Uncle Cecil will share their knowledge in yarning sessions and workshops.

Australia’s sheep flock to reach largest size in over fifteen years

THE Australian sheepmeat industry is set for another bumper year in 2023 as the national sheep flock grows to its highest level since 2007 at 78.75m head, according to the latest Sheep Industry Projections update from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

Driving this increase are optimal breeding conditions nationwide, a genetically superior flock, improved lambing percentages and mediumterm industry confidence at the farm gate level.

Growth is forecast across all states, with larger improvements in flock numbers expected from South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania.

The key sheep producing states of New South Wales and Victoria are also forecast to lift numbers, although not as significantly as other states.

In 2024 the national flock’s growth is projected to moderate and plateau, reaching 79.5 million head, a rise of one percent, or 750,000 head year-on-year.

While in 2025, the

national flock is estimated to fall to 2023 levels, although it will remain above the ten-year average.

According to Senior Market Information Analyst at MLA, Ripley Atkinson, the growth of the national flock in 2023 will lead to increased slaughter numbers and production.

“Lamb slaughter is forecast to reach 22.6m in 2023 as a result of large numbers of breeding ewes and strong marking rates.

This is a rise of 595,000 head or 2.7 percent yearon-year.

“2022’s slaughter performance showed that small stock processors had a greater ability to increase their throughput in line with higher supply, a trend MLA expects will continue in 2023.

“Looking further ahead to 2024, we forecast it to be a record year for lamb slaughter, reaching 23.2m head.

“This would be a rise of three percent, or 560,000 year-on-year and higher by 1.1m head or five percent on the ten-year average,” said Mr Atkinson.

Carcase weights are also forecast to increase in 2023.

This is primarily due to structural genetic investment and productive improvement in the national flock over the past two years.

In 2023, lamb carcase weights are forecast to remain high at 25.1kg.

This would be eleven percent, or 2.5kg/head, above the ten-year average.

This is despite weather forecasts suggesting drier conditions will occur in the second half of 2023.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has forecast that the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) will enter a positive phase in 2023.

A positive IOD results in less rain across southern Australia, where most of Australia's sheep population is located.

As the second largest sheepmeat exporter in the world, New Zealand plays an important role in the global lamb and mutton market.

However, according

to Mr Atkinson, a decline in the New Zealand sheep flock size presents an opportunity for the Australian sheepmeat industry.

“New Zealand, like Australia, has good market access, quality assurance schemes and a strong reputation internationally meaning that they are an international competitor to Australian lamb and

mutton.

“However, new opportunities may be made available to Australian producers and exporters as New Zealand flock size decreases, wool and lamb production become less profitable compared to dairy production, and land availability decreases.

“In recent years, successive Australian Governments have made

considerable strides in gaining European market access, with talks ongoing for an Australia (AU)European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the AU-UK FTA signed in December 2021.

“As New Zealand sheepmeat exports have increasingly shifted away from Europe, and towards China, improved opportunities for Australian sheepmeat in European markets may continue,” said Mr Atkinson.

Overall, Australia’s sheep industry is in an exciting position of continued growth and development, with local production and the flock forecast set to rise, while global demand for high quality sheepmeat in established and emerging markets continues.

The industry’s ability to continue to deliver high quality protein and be a world-leading producer will define 2023 as a positive and optimistic year.

View a full copy of MLA’s 2023 Sheep Industry Projections at https://info. mla.com.au/4PKB-8CAD1T6UV9-8VJBE-1/c.aspx.

WHAT'SVIBIN'

The Survival of Kindness to launch SWIFF Opening Night Gala

THE Coffs Coast’s sixteen-day 2023 Screenwave International Film Festival (April 20 – May 5) has announced revered Australian auteur Rolf de Heer’s first feature film in nine years, The Survival of Kindness, to launch its eighth festival at the SWIFF’23 Opening Night Gala on April 20.

The Survival of Kindness introduces Mwajemi Hussein in the lead role of BlackWoman. Battling privilege and pestilence, not knowing if she's alive or dead, BlackWoman’s story is an exquisite, thoughtprovoking and immersive journey of pure cinema.

Rolf de Heer, the visionary director of Charlie’s Country, Ten Canoes, Bad Boy Bubby, and The Tracker, among others, continues with his signature brand of observation and subversion through cinema with The Survival of Kindness, already attracting critical acclaim, nominated for Berlinale's coveted Golden Bear Best Film award, with the award winner announced on February 25.

13CABS

Day Fri 17th Mar St Patrick’s toorminahotel.com.au irish Food specials Drink specials Prizes to be won

The last Australian director nominated for the Golden Bear was Emile Sherman for Candy in 2006.

Rolf de Heer, lead actress Mwajemi Hussein, and producers Molly Reynolds (My Name Is Gulpilil – SWIFF’21) and Julie Byrne (The Babadook, Charlie's Country), will be in attendance to present the New South Wales Premiere of The Survival of Kindness at SWIFF’23’s Opening Night Gala, which will be hosted at SWIFF’s CHEC Theatre venue for the first time.

“There hasn’t been an Australian film like The Survival of Kindness before.

“Inimitable for its time, and at its core a concept that is so unique, compelling, and profound, it’s the perfect film to launch into a bold and adventurous two-week festival experience,” said SWIFF Artistic Director Kate Howat.

The Survival of Kindness, filmed in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges and Tasmania, will launch a 150-session line-up of screenings and events at SWIFF’23, running sixteen days and nights across three screening venues in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen, including the newly upgraded historic Bellingen Memorial Hall, having just finished a three-year multi-million dollar restoration and upgrade project.

The Screenwave International Film Festival began as a new grassroots film festival in 2015, founded by metropolitan expat husband-and-wife couple, Festival Directors Dave Horsley and Kate Howat and is supported by Australian screen icon and SWIFF Festival Patron Jack Thompson.

SWIFF now sees around 12,000 movie lovers attend the Coffs Coast festival each year, many travelling from around Australia to the beachside community of 75,000 people.

Screenwave International Film Festival

Dates: Thursday 20 April to Friday 5 May

Film Passes: Six films for $99 or up to 20 films for $269

Booking link: www.swiff.com.au

ENSEMBLE LIAISON

ENSEMBLE LIAISON

MARCH 5

MARCH 5 1PM

1PM

Join Ensemble Liaison for Sunday Series Concert 1 at the Coffs Con March 5 at the special time of 1pm

Join Ensemble Liaison for Sunday Series Concert 1 at the Coffs Con March 5 at the special time of 1pm

Young - Trio Distant Waters

Young - Trio Distant Waters

Brahms - Trio in A minor

Join Ensemble Liaison for Sunday Series Concert 1 at the Coffs Con March 5 at the special time of 1pm

Brahms - Trio in A minor

Young - Trio Distant Waters

Piazzolla - The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires

Piazzolla - The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires

Brahms - Trio in A minor

Piazzolla - The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires

Gershwin/Frolov - Concert Fantasy on Themes from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess

Gershwin/Frolov - Concert Fantasy on Themes from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess

Gershwin/Frolov - Concert Fantasy on Themes from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess

Tickets available at www coffscon org au/events/ or via the QR code

Tickets available at www coffscon org au/events/ or via the QR code

Tickets available at au /

For more information, Please call 02 6652 1592

Meet the School Captains

Urunga Public School welcomes new school captains and leaders

partnerships and links with neighbouring schools in the Bellinger Dorrigo Learning Community.

“At our school, parents, teachers and the wider community work together with a commitment to nurture, guide, inspire and

challenge students.

“This means that every child is known, valued, cared for and supported to become confident, self-motivated and creative problem solvers.”

Urunga Public School focuses on literacy, numeracy, creative

Orara High School proudly introduces our Captains and Vice Captains for 2023 together with our Relieving Principal, Mrs Michelle Elliott.

arts, sport, music and environmental education.

Leadership skills are taught, nurtured and encouraged across the whole school. Teachers work in close partnership with the parents and the wider community to achieve the best possible outcomes for all students.

Programs that enhance sustainability, conservation and appreciation of the local and wider environment are also a focus.

IT is with great delight that we introduce the leaders of Urunga Public School for 2023.

Lyla Fitzgibbon and Lily Richardson are the new School Captains, along with Maddison Smith, Siobhan Kealy-Banks, Luka Payne and Dean Kennedy as School Leaders.

“Our leadership team is showing

Lyla and Lily said they are both very focused on being great role models for the younger children and will ensure that all the new students, including the 34 kindergarten students, feel welcome and supported as they start their schooling adventure at Urunga Public School.

“They will help the students and school community in any way they can,” said Jayne.

Lily said she was “so excited that her knees felt like they were about to cave in” when she was announced as leader, is so excited to lead such an amazing school and cannot wait for the year ahead.

Lyla added that when she was announced as captain, she was about to cry with

happiness.

“Being a captain means setting a good example for everyone and will always help wherever possible,” Lyla said.

Both captains are very much looking forward to the Leadership Camp this year. With the support of principal Jane Martyn, staff and the extended community, these leaders will do an incredible job representing the school whilst setting a great example to their peers.

“Urunga Public School is a small school with a big future,” said Jayne.

“We currently have eight classes, which enables learning support for each individual student.

“Our school is situated on Gumbaynggirr land at the centre of the Urunga community.

“At Urunga Public School, we foster and enjoy strong

Our captains bring to their roles enthusiasm, dedication and a commitment as the leading representatives of the school eager to inspire and encourage positive change.

In 2023, our captains look forward to working with our Principal, Mrs Elliott, and the other members of our Student Representative Council, to ensure Orara High School is an inclusive, safe and respectful space for everyone.

Collectively, the captains have a strong interest in sport in and outside of school and some of the key skills they have developed “on the field” are determination, fairness, leadership and teamwork.

These skills will go a long way to helping them all achieve greatness in their final year and to create opportunities for all our students to succeed.

q The Urunga Public School captains and school leaders for 2023.

Mayada Oso - Captain (front left), Michelle Elliott, Relieving Principal (middle), Nagan Radhakrishna Pillai – Captain (front right), James Buist – Vice Captain (back left) & Emma Purves – Vice Captain (back right)

“After a wonderful and restful summer break, we are all filled with excitement and great anticipation for a fantastic year ahead,” said Urunga Public School principal Jane Martyn.

great motivation and are ready to make this year the best!”

MEET OUR SCHOOL LEADERS FOR 2023

ST FRANCIS XAVIER PRIMARY SCHOOL WOOLGOOLGA

We are proud to announce our St Francis Xavier Student Leaders for 2023.

L to R: Bonnie Hammond (Assistant Leader), Jiri Cooke (School Leader), Maggie Winn (School Leader) with Principal Caroline Lewis Absent: Harsaaj Lehl (Assistant Leader)

www.woolplism.catholic.edu.au | sfxpwool@lism.catholic.edu.au

02 6654 1981

ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

We are very proud of our St Augustine’s captains and vice captains for 2023. We know that they will be amazing student leaders and look forward to working with them this year.

www.cofhplism.catholic.edu.au | cofhp@lism.catholic.edu.au

02 6652 1204

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS PRIMARY SCHOOL SAWTELL

Congratulations to our 2023 school captains and vice captains who represent our student body. We’re looking forward to a great year ahead.

L to R: Tate Dennis (Vice Captain), Madison Johnston (Vice Captain), Polly Salter (Captain), Oakley Baylis (Captain) with Principal Liz Watts

www.sawplism.catholic.edu.au | mhocsawtell@lism.catholic.edu.au

02 6653 3122

ST JOHN PAUL COLLEGE COFFS HARBOUR

L

We are so proud of our student leaders at all levels in the College, but these four senior leaders hold a special responsibility in leading the 1100 students here at the College. We know they will do a tremendous job and wish them well in 2023.

www.cofhslism.catholic.edu.au | sjpccoffs@lism.catholic.edu.au

02 6653 3155

L to R: Eric Greenwood (Vice Captain), Albie Webb (Captain), Coco Becker (Captain), Hannah Burton (Vice Captain) with Principal Peter Watts

COFFS HARBOUR

to R: Cooper Lawlor (Vice Captain) Lily Hallawell (Captain), Julian Na (Captain), Lily Betland (Vice Captain) with Principal Michael Carniato

‘Our 2023 captains are adaptable, enterprising, and progressive. These students practice involvement and advocacy as they immerse themselves in real-world matters. BDC is the ideal environment for student leaders to thrive.’

Nick Johnstone, Bishop Druitt College Principal

BDC Secondary Captains

Lily Atkin, Cottee House Captain.

As this year’s Cottee House Captain at BDC, I am excited to create a strong house spirit and bring my house together. I am passionate about encouraging others to join in events. I hope to bring bright and bubbly energy to the house. GO COTTEE!!!

Macushla Brennan, Arts Captain

As one of this year’s Arts Captains, I would like to bring new and exciting art events to BDC providing opportunities and exposure for the arts students and non-art students alike. For those studying art especially, I would like to make artistic growth accessible and recognition highlighted in all areas of the arts.

Ziggy Brown, Hollows House Captain.

I hope to bring Hollows House back to the top. I am also achieving my goal of getting the whole house involved to make carnivals and inter house events more exciting for everyone. I will continue to develop this role to ensure the house has its best shot at winning the House Shield.

Oliver Caesar, O’Shane House Captain.

I am honoured to live up to the legacy of my previous leaders. I aim to encourage teamwork and build a strong connection within my house. I am flexible and always listen to my peers for feedback and suggestions for our fortnightly house meetings. I am looking forward to the year ahead as a house captain and I am prepared to face any challenges along the way, leading my house to win this year’s shield.

Jesse Cameron, Sports Captain.

I hope to achieve my goals of motivating everyone to get involved in sports within our school community if this is school representative teams or participation in school carnivals. I am also excited to play a role in different sporting events, such as the annual Sports Dinner in October, where we highlight and congratulate the sporting achievements of BDC students.

Ruby Couper, Academic Captain.

As one of the Academic Captains of 2023, my main objective is to make people more aware of academic opportunities at BDC and to ensure those opportunities are accessible to all students. Academics are the foundation of an educational

institution but I believe these beyond the classroom opportunities help reinforce the skills needed for lifelong learning. An increased focus on them will help create students who are world prepared.

Kaleah Doherty, Sports Captain.

I am thrilled to be able to provide students the opportunity to gain confidence and feel comfortable in all sporting situations. I believe

A sister school within the Anglican school community.

www.cvas.nsw.edu.au

Cathedral Campus (PreKinder to Year 2) (02) 6642 2011 jsreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au

Clarenza Campus (Years 3 - 12) (02) 6642 8205 ssreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au

Meaningful, hands-on learning

‘This year we look forward to welcoming the next wave of BDC Primary leaders through the college. Some wonderful ideas are being brought to the forefront on how to grow various areas of the college within each student’s individualised leadership plan. We look forward to seeing all of these exciting new ideas after they return from the group leadership conference GRIP. I look forward to supporting them through their leadership journey.’

BDC Primary Captains

Felix Benson, Round Square Captain.

“Challenges are what make life interesting, and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” Joshua Marine.

Jasper Bowman, Sports Captain.

“No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.” P. T. Barnum.

Targeted & proactive wellbeing programs

Targeted & proactive wellbeing programs

Enrolling Now PreKinder - Year 12 Years 8 & 9 (wait list)

William Boyle, The Arts Captain.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” Walt Disney.

Molly Crichton, Environment and Adventure Captain.

“You are never too old to set a goal or to dream a new dream.” CS Lewis.

Keira Garner, Sports Captain.

“Failure is not the opposite of success, it is part of success.” Arianna Huffington.

Dylan Hannaford, Service Captain.

“The first and greatest victory is to conquer

mean pushing yourself to your breaking point.

‘Your best’ means the best you can do while being the best you. Get enough sleep, give yourself breaks, listen to your limits. ‘Your best’ is better when you are happy and healthy.

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” Steve Jobs.

Phoebe Tobin, Service Captain.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Nelson Mandela.

High Performance Program & Athlete Development

High Performance Program & Athlete Development

Enrolling Now Year 5 2024 Years 11 & 12 2024

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

(02) 6651 5644 enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au

111 North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

FOLLOW US

House Captain, Sierra Cooke O’Shane House Captain, Joshua Garnett O’Shane House Captain, Braxton Charnock Murray House Captain, Eva Jarman Murray House Captain, Zara Harris Kngwarreye House Captain, Sonny Dusting Kngwarreye House Captain, Jacoby Zuvela Cottee House Captain, Eva Fox Cottee House Captain, Isobel Fisher Hollows House Captain, Sonny Stowell Hollows House Captain, Richard Smith Assistant

‘We are a community. We are innovative. We are inclusive. We prepare children for an exciting, dynamic life.'

‘We are a community. We are innovative. We are inclusive. We prepare children for an exciting, dynamic life.'

Richard Smith, Head of Primary (Assistant Principal)

A Club for Everyone

Find your tribe at Cārnivalé

AT Cārnivalé the students, teachers, parents and carers are brought together by one common passion - dance!

The creative crew, backstage crew, performance crews and road crews (Mums and Dads) all work together under the watchful eye of Artistic Director Jacqueline Carniato; with each part of the puzzle as important as each other.

They happily confess they are all a little bit crazy, slightly obsessed with dance and that’s just the way they like it!

Cārnivalé’s Coffs Harbour studio, which celebrated ten years in 2022, has earnt a well-deserved reputation for being a one-stop shop for the performing arts with an emphasis on dance, all in a nurturing and welcoming community that celebrates individuality.

Cārnivalé is known for those that want to stand out and not just fit into the typical dancer’s mould.

Their dancers are encouraged to be wellrounded in their skills, dedicated yet humble, and prepared to do the hard work

for the results.

The school’s exceptional achievements are definitely proof that their unique programs work, with their honour roll boasting regional champions as young as six years of age.

Their intermediate division also received state and national accolades last year.

To continue to be the best in the business and to support their students to be well equipped to succeed in the performing arts education industry, Cārnivalé are committed to constantly evolving with creativity and innovation.

Their not-for-profit initiative project “openstage” provides sponsorship to affiliated industries, financial scholarships to students for technical and performance excellence and helps fund their students’ off-site dance education.

Cārnivalé pledge that they never want their students to feel disadvantaged because they live in a regional area.

They train their students with the most up-to-date education methods so

students can achieve the results they desire, they coach their students by challenging their depth and scope of learning and they mentor each one to believe in themselves as performers.

Cārnivalé has even given a shoutout to senior dance students in the local Coffs Harbour area looking for part time work or in their gap year, to join the team with flexible hours and opportunities

available.

“We love to have new infusions of ideas and talents being introduced to the creative team,” said Artistic Director Jacqueline Carniato.

Each year Cārnivalé ensures that their dynamic curriculum continues to be stimulating and relevant, and caters to a wide range of needs, abilities and interests including children with unique gifts and talents.

Both teachers and students are spoilt for choice when it comes to what the school’s timetable offers; both in what the teachers can teach and what the students can learn.

Cārnivalé offers traditional foundation genres of dance like classical ballet, jazz and tap, and commercial styles like hip hop, lyrical, musical theatre, contemporary and even acro.

JOIN ROTARY

President: Neil McVicar: neil. mcvicar55@gmail.com

Secretary: Rosemary Hepworth bunchone@bigpond.com

Meeting Venue: Surf Club

Meeting time: Wednesdays, 6pm for 6.30 pm

Contact details: bunchone@ bigpond.com 0417 847 390

President: David Wilson

Secretary: Bev Stalling

Meeting Venue: Coffs Harbour Golf Club

Meeting Time: 7.15pm for 7.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month

Contact details: coffsharbourdaybreak@ gmail.com 0400 022 365

Cārnivalé is an AKV and CKV accredited provider and their Term 1 has only just kicked off so there is no time to waste.

Visit their website at www.carnivaledanceco.com, or call up 0407 879 708 to find out how they can help cater your enrolment to your child’s interests or if you are interested in a teaching position.

President: Jay Clowes: president@coffscityrotary.org.au 0418 960 275

Secretary: Geoff Pollack: secretary@coffscityrotary.org.au 0411 269 685

Meeting Venue/time: Please contact us for details.

President: Denis Gleeson

Secretary: Gerry de Gabriele

Meeting Venue: Sawtell RSL Club

Meeting time: Monday, dinner 6pm in Bistro, meeting 7pm upstairs

Contact details: pete9650@ gmail,com 0428 140 752

q Cārnivalé’s Coffs Harbour studio has earnt a welldeserved reputation for being a one-stop shop for the performing arts with an emphasis on dance.

A Club for Everyone Supporting communities to thrive with Rotary

ROTARY is a worldwide nonprofit service organisation.

Its members are welcome irrespective of their race, colour, creed, religion, gender or political persuasion.

Rotary began in February 1905 in Chicago in the United States when Paul Harris, an attorney, brought together a small group of businessmen for companionship and their mutual benefit.

This meeting started what was to become the worldwide organisation we recognise as Rotary.

There are now more than 1.4 million Rotarians and they live in over 200 countries.

In addition there are numerous Interact clubs for school students and Rotaract clubs for young adults which fall under the Rotary umbrella.

Rotarians volunteer both locally and internationally and each club has its own projects.

Rotary helps to provide clean water and sanitation and supports education and health projects.

It helps to protect the environment and supports mothers and children.

It helps local economies to grow.

It involves youth in several programmes and provides peace scholarships to aid a better world.

Clubs hold regular meetings with theme nights and guest speakers.

Some clubs meet during the day whilst others hold evening meetings.

Every Rotary club needs an active membership

because without it, it cannot contribute to the local community nor participate in international projects.

Fundraising projects vary from club to club.

Volunteering to join Rotary helps our Rotary clubs to thrive but also provides personal rewards and increases the opportunity for friendship and support.

Enquire about joining Rotary.

You will be delighted and so will your club!

q Rotary members Tony James, Steve Millward, Horrie Brauer and Grahame Kell.

Wonderfully renovated family home with

15 Seventeenth Avenue, Sawtell

EXPERIENCE the epitome of modern coastal living with this extensively renovated home located in a peaceful and sought-after pocket of Sawtell.

This property boasts an abundance of indoor and outdoor living spaces, stylish design features and top-quality finishes that seamlessly blend the original character of the home with

modern contemporary improvements and additions.

The modernised kitchen is equipped with ample cabinetry and counter space, along with a skylight that brings in natural light.

The front living room features hardwood timber floorboards and directly connects via sliding doors to an inviting north facing, covered terrace with terrific views of the mountains and streetscape.

The main home consists

of four bedrooms, with two spacious bedrooms both featuring built in robes, ceiling fans and a northerly aspect.

The rooms are serviced by an attractive, fully renovated main bathroom with a feature skylight, bathtub, and shower.

A smaller third bedroom lies just off the dining space and hosts a convenient ensuite bathroom.

The Master bedroom suite is exceptionally spacious,

featuring high ceilings, polished concrete floors, ample built in wardrobes, and a terrific outlook over the pool/entertainment area and views of the mountains.

The large ensuite bathroom features a shower, attractive finishes, and floor to ceiling tiling.

Opening out from the Master bedroom is a designated ‘parents retreat’, offering a stylish separate living area, featuring a wood fireplace and wall mounted

Boambee Valley Beauty

TV.

The main outdoor entertainment area is fully covered and makes for a superb space to enjoy with friends and family. Multiple skylights allow in plenty of natural light and this space includes mood lighting, wall heaters and wiring in place for an outdoor speaker system.

The entertainment area overlooks a fantastic salt/ magnesium inground pool bordered with attractive

timber decking and glass fencing screens.

At the rear of the property, there is a self-contained, 60m2 studio flat with separate access from the council lane. This brand-new dwelling is ideal for those looking for an additional Holiday Let income or perfect for those seeking a private, spacious living option for a family member or visiting friends.

The previous ‘boat shed’ has received a complete renovation to offer another separate living space, perfect for a teenager’s retreat, gym, home office, art studio or music room.

4 and 4A Banff Close, Boambee

Price: $1,495,000 6 beds/3 baths/3 car

SET in the gorgeous Boambee Valley is this immaculate rural residential property, boasting not one, but two dwellings on the parklike 3000 metre block.

Not only is this property set in the beautiful Boambee Valley, but it is also located in a cul-de-sac meaning virtually zero traffic.

The main home is exquisite from the moment you enter the feature timber front doors and are greeted

with stunning timber floors.

Large open plan living, complete with study nook, through to dining, and appropriate country style kitchen complete with large gas hob, built-in oven, microwave, and dishwasher.

Large breakfast bar, large enough to feed the kids before school or perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch, or you can just walk a few steps to the dining area with its large windows allowing views over the deck to the trees outside and allowing natural light to stream in.

It doesn't matter whether it's spring, summer, autumn,

or winter, the ducted air conditioning ensures you will be comfortable all year round.

Also running off this end of the home is a large

additional informal living/ rumpus room, perfect for teenagers (or adults retreat) gym, or a studio.

This area also has the added bonus of having an office run off one end of it, perfect for working from home in these post-Covid times.

The main living area also opens out to the large partially covered entertaining deck, and when we say large, we mean large.

The perfect place to entertain friends and family or just relax in your own piece of paradise.

The main bedroom is once again pristine, with a walk-in robe and partially renovated country-styled bathroom.

The other three bedrooms run off a hall at the other end of the living area.

All of the bedrooms are in excess of 9 sqm and include large built-in robes.

These bedrooms are also serviced by a beautifully renovated bathroom including double vanities adding to the family friendliness of the home.

The outside of the home continues to give and please.

Oversized double garage and shade sails means there is ample undercover storage for all of the vehicles and big boys' toys.

One of the great features of the home has to be the stunning in-ground swimming pool, designed to fit naturally into the environment.

Storage will never be an issue due to the cleverly designed secure alcoves built under the deck of the main home.

As mentioned at the beginning though, one of the greatest assets this property has is the two-bedroom cottage, totally separate and

private from the main home, known as 4A Banff Close.

The cottage is fully approved and constructed by East Coast Granny Flats.

It is fully independent of the main homes and features two bedrooms, open plan living, a kitchen, bathroom/ laundry, and its own carport and deck.

It even boasts air-conditioned and ceiling fans.

It is currently leased at $375 per week.

Truly a property that offers so much, be it having a magnificent home with an investment property attached, or perfect for that additional family member/s you want close by, or your own B&B or Airbnb.

This home is sure to be popular so contact the team at Unrealestate for an inspection or keep an eye out for open house times.

Land Size: 3,000sqm

View online at www.unre.com.au/ ban4

Contact Chris Hines on 0439 667 719 or at chris@unre.com.au

Contact Kim McGinty on 0432 953 796 or at kim@unre.com.au

PROPERTYWEEK with an approved studio flat

Overall, this substantially renovated home combines character and modern creature comforts to suit any family configuration. An easy walk to Murrays Beach, Sawtell

Primary, Hilltop store Café and walking distance to Sawtell Village, this property offers a convenient,

Sandy Beach – Sea breezes and Sand!

80 Diamond Head Drv, Sandy Beach

This well designed family home is located in popular Sandy Beach with the beach being only 700 meters down the road. Features include: 4 good sized bedrooms – all with robes with the master having a walk in robe and ensuite. There are separate lounge, dining and media rooms whilst a dishwasher and walk in pantry compliment the kitchen. The lounge area itself opens onto an alfresco entertaining area with the palm filled gardens adding privacy and a tropical outlook. Other features include air conditioning, controller unit fitted to the double garage and extensive use of easy care floor tiles throughout the traffic and living areas. For the investor, our excellent tenant pays $570 pw and is keen to stay! Land size 575m2 with Council rates being $3111.84pa. Arrange your inspection today, you won’t be disappointed!

For Sale – $895,000

Scott Bellamy 0438 581 611

Bonville Retreat - Lifestyle is everything

104 Faviell Drv, Bonville

Positioned on a parklike 1 hectare (2.5acres), this superb residence oozes class and functionality. Designed around the idyllic outlook, this classic residence features; 5 large bedrooms - 2 with ensuites, spacious lounge/living areas with easy care timber flooring and a kitchen designed with the chef in mind. The ducted air conditioning adjusts the temperature when required whilst the covered entertaining area overlooks your inviting inground pool.

The double garage houses the cars with there being a separate 10m x 5 m colourbond shed to house additional vehicles or for the home handyman to tinker in. The shed also has a granny flat that could double as guest accommodation or a teenagers retreat.

The surrounding land could easily be fenced to run a few horses or cattle or to plant fruit trees or alike.

This fantastic opportunity awaits your inspection with Sawtells fine beaches and restaurants being less than 10 minutes away by car. Bonville International Golf Resort is less than 3 kms down the road for the avid golfer.

Arrange your inspection today, you won’t be disappointed!

For Sale – $1,725,000

Price reduced to meet the market!!

156 Lyons Rd, Sawtell

This superb Sawtell family home should be should be at the top of your inspection list if you are looking for a quality family home at a great address!! Designed around entertaining, privacy and the outlook over Bonville Creek and Reserve, the home offers - 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and multiple living areas. The modern kitchen has all of the appliances a chef requires whilst the rear deck overlooks the sparkling in ground pool. The home is also air conditioned with the double garage having internal access and electric controller door units for easy access

Sawtell continues to be the gem of the Coffs Coast, so don’t let the opportunity pass you by!

Arrange your inspection today.

For Sale – $1,250,000 - $1,300,000

2 Micorca PL, Toormina rh.com.au/toormina

66581611

Wonderfully spocious Villa with high raked ceilings, highlight windows and exposed rafters/beams

Modernised internally, with new vinyl floor coverings, full repaint, ceiling fans and A/C to bedrooms and living area

Close driving distance to Toormina Shops and Sawtell Village

Substantial family sized home with multiple living zones

Elevated position offers mountain views & captures the breeze

Spacious Master bedroom w/ large ensuite bathroom + living area

Extensively renovated internally and externally

paddleboarding, fishing and beach access

Spacious family sized home close walking distance

to Sawtell Main Street, Beach and Public School

The second level offers an approved kitchenette, living space, bathroom and two bedrooms, perfect for a live in family member or teenagers retreat

Multiple living area ' s and a large spacious kitchen/dining area

Rare 3-bedroom Townhouse, one street back from the beach!

Elevated position offers mountain & ocean views

Low-maintenance home and courtyard

180m to Murrays Beach, 100m to The Hilltop Store Cafe and a short walk to Sawtell Village

Boambee East 23 Wedgetail Crescent

Substantial family sized home with multiple living zones

FOR SALE $935,000

Elevated position offers mountain views & captures the breeze

Spacious Master bedroom with a large ensuite bathroom

High ceilings give the home a terrific sense of space

Easy access into Sawtell Village & Toormina Shopping Centre

• Within walking distance to Toormina Shopping Centre

• Modern kitchen with stone benchtops, white cupboards

• Combined living dining area

Size of a House 3/35 BOULTWOOD STREET, COFFS HARBOUR

$689,000

• Immaculate low maintenance villa located at the rear in complex of three

• Large open plan living, plus dining area, renovated kitchen with stone benchtops, electrical appliances

• Good sized bedrooms, main with ensuite, built in robes, sliding door access to rear covered outdoor entertaining area

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796 Chris Hines 0439 667 719

3 2 1

Land Size: 242sqm

unre.com.au/bou3.35

Delightfully Renovated 1 BOWER CRESCENT, TOORMINA

• Three bedroom home featuring renovated kitchen with stunning timber benches, and large island bench

• Generous open plan living area

• Sunroom which leads to fully fenced rear yard with outdoor entertaining area

• Main bedroom has walk-in robe and stylish ensuite

• Renovated combined bathroom/laundry

• DLUG and two garden sheds

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

649.9sqm

Family Required 14 HARVIE DRIVE, BOAMBEE EAST

• Large high set 5-bedroom home located in popular residential enclave

• Open plan living dining area with timber floorboards adjacent to the kitchen with breakfast bar

• Main bedroom is suite sized with huge walk-in robe & ensuite which can be used by the whole family while you install the bathroom of your dreams

• Double lock up garage, plus under house storage, & additional side parking

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796 Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Size: 712.7sqm

Well Kept Investment Opportunity 10 KATHERINE CLOSE, COFFS HARBOUR

• Ideally located home with tiled loungeroom & dining area

• Grey kitchen with corner pantry, electric appliances, & laminate benchtop

• Enclosed sunroom leading out to the fully fenced level rear yard

• Ideally located close to schools, shopping centres, public transport

• Current tenant in place on an expired lease paying $550 per week who would love to stay on at the property

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Perfect Downsizer or Starter 4 MAKINSON CLOSE. TOORMINA

• Positioned perfectly in a great central location with Schools, shops and public transport all within a leisurely 800 metre stroll.

• Sighted on 505sqm lot in a quiet cul-de-sac location.

• There is a wonderful covered alfresco area for entertaining or maybe just sitting with a book enjoying the established gardens which apart from the tranquillity also offer privacy from the outside world.

• A great starter or downsizer ready to move into an enjoy.

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Land Size: 506sqm

unre.com.au/mak4

Family Home with Potential 6 MIRROOLA CRESCENT, TOORMINA

$780,000-$820,000

• Set on a large 836.1sqm block this home has

• Two living areas plus study, main bedroom with walk in robe and ensuite located at the rear of the home, separate from the other four bedrooms

• Single lock up drive through garage to rear yard with carport

• Outdoor entertaining area, Inground pool (currently not functional) with established gardens

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Land Size: 836.1sqm

unre.com.au/mir6

Boambee Valley Beauty 4&4A BANFF CLOSE, BOAMBEE

$1,495,000

• Immaculate Rural Residential property, boasting not one, but 2 dwellings on a parklike 3000sqm block

• The main four bedroom dwelling is exquisite from the moment you enter the front doors and are greeted with stunning timber floors

• Large open plan living through to dining and massive entertaining deck overlooking sparkling inground pool

• Additional rumpus room and office

• Near new additional two bedroom cottage currently yielding $375pw

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Land Size: 3,000sqm

The Time Has Come

The market has changed, and so have this owners expectations – our instructions are to “SELL NOW!

• Architect designed over three levels, there is not a thing to do in this meticulously presented home, being offered for the first time in 36 years.

• Fantastic north facing deck with tranquil views of the surrounds – ideal outdoor living & entertainment space.

• Cul-de-sac location, within a short walk to the beach and Korora School.

• Opportunity knocks – live the coastal lifestyle at idyllic Korora Bay.

Sale:

Expressions Of Interest Invited

Christine Clarke 0408 655 688

View Saturday 18th February 10:00 – 10:30am

This immaculate townhouse has been home to the one owner for over 15 years. Located in a gated security complex, and just a few minutes walk to the beachfront, the spacious design is the perfect downsizer, with the master bedroom suite and open plan living on one level, and guest rooms and a full bathroom below. Available now – move in and enjoy the beachside lifestyle, invest for future retirement, or reap future capital gain in this popular location.

• Stylish & spacious design with low maintenance courtyard.

• Approx. 200 metre level walk to the beach, cafes and bowling club

• Oversized double lock – up garage with auto access.

Sale $799,000

Christine Clarke 0408 655 688

Fantastic Beachside Townhouse Immaculate, Different, & Not A Thing To Do!

View Saturday 18th February 11:00 – 11:30am

Just Listed!

Located on an elevated corner block, the convenient location is an easy walk to Tyalla Primary & Orara High Schools, with major shopping centres a few minutes drive.

The home is as neat as a pin, with two living areas enjoying a private outlook to the leafy gardens.

• Separate studio suited to hobbies & work space.

• Spacious undercover entertaining area.

• Lock up garage plus additional parking for a van or oversized vehicle.

• Modern kitchen with stone bench tops and quality stainless steel appliances.

Sale $750,000

View Saturday 18th February 11:45 – 12:15pm

Christine Clarke 0408 655 688

What’s not to love about this fully renovated family home. Within walking distance to the City Centre, in an area of established homes, this is a “move in & enjoy the lifestyle” home, with not a thing to do. A builders own home, the quality renovation has retained high ceilings and the decorative cornice as a salute to the original design, whilst modern styling, opening up living areas, & extending outdoor entertaining & relaxation spaces. Fantastic hardwood timber flooring throughout. A modern kitchen, the hub of family living, adjoins the dining, lounge & entertaining areas. Step out of the kitchen to a sun-drenched private coffee nook on the northern side of the home, whilst the living area flows seamlessly to a huge deck, providing an undercover alfresco & entertaining “outdoor room”.

Sale $789,000

Christine Clarke 0408 655 688

Christine Clarke 0408 655 688

View Saturday 18th February 12:45 – 1:15pm

1/27 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour

66521066

rh.com.au/coffsharbour

We are here now to save Grandpa’s Scrub

DEAR News Of The Area,

IN NOTA letters on 10 February 2023, Barbara Davis asks the question ‘Where were Grandpa’s Scrub Activists in 2019?’

It’s a fair question Barbara and not the first time we have been asked.

The short answer is that while the patch of Scrub was flagged by at least one member of the public, and also by our Council in their response to the EIS in 2018/19, only a few locals knew it even existed.

It’s a bit hard to respond if you are not aware.

We learnt of the Patch and its significance in 2021 after further TfNSW surveys showed up endangered plants and new species at Korora which were missed in the superficial flora surveys undertaken prior to the 2019 EIS.

It was these same early 2019 EIS surveys which also happened to dismiss the Scrub, a unique 0.51 ha patch of original Remnant Lowland Rainforest, listed as critically endangered in NSW and QLD.

We therefore do not apologise for coming to the table late, but it has added a sense of urgency to our calls for some integrity in

the application of environmental protections under the EPBC Act.

We applaud the early community representations made by yourself and the Community Consultative Committee on a range of other issues and trust some meaningful improvements were gained as a result.

As we have stated in previous correspondence; the lazy process which locks in a highway route before ground truthing, and then tries to make the EIS fit by offsetting anything which may have value, is bound to create bad outcomes for the

environment and the community.

It is not too late to alter the route and save the Scrub, but that decision currently rests with the NSW Transport Minister Sam Farraway, who also happens to be a close colleague of our local member.

If there are any deals, they will be the ones making them.

They also need to hurry because time is running out.

Regards, Dave WOOD, Advocates for Grandpa’s Scrub, Boambee East.

Greens position on Jetty redevelopment

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WRITE to clarify our position regarding the Jetty redevelopment.

Our Jetty is rare open space, a key tourism attraction bringing jobs and money into Coffs Harbour.

Its redevelopment has flawed consultation including biased survey questions with

data errors.

Is developer bias due to political donations?

Large tall buildings will not increase open space, less car parking area won’t increase parking spaces, developers will maximise heights available.

This redevelopment has no new access roads, no positions for schools or nurses, no

flood level shown in a coastal zone.

Economic sustainability requires justification.

Yes, we want improvement, tourism options, local business growth, celebration of heritage, jobs and youth activities at the Jetty but private buildings overlooking you create a feeling of being enclosed while generating noise complaints.

There are better options for our coastline than the National party proposal.

If you want the Jetty to stay ours, oppose this redevelopment.

Regards, Tim NOTT, Greens candidate for Coffs Harbour.

Historic opposition to foreshore development

DEAR News Of The Area, CONGRATULATIONS to Bruce Fidge (NOTA letters 10/2) for his informed insider’s account of the decades long struggle to save the harbour foreshores from extensive urban development.

It was recognised by government forty years ago that substantial development east

of the railway line was not feasible without an overpass replacing the railway level crossing to cope with increased traffic.

The present State Government and its local agent Gurmesh Singh now dismiss this concern out of hand in their determination to urbanise that precious parcel of railway land to the maximum regardless of any and all negative impacts on the city.

Apparently the prospect of the entire Jetty area becoming a traffic tangled nightmare no longer troubles our elected representative in his eagerness to implement this Government’s Sydney-hatched grand planning strategy.

Bruce points out that the government has been putting up these development proposals for forty years in the face of entrenched community and Council opposition.

The only difference this time round is that they think the use of industrial grade spin, hype and cunningly engineered polling can convince us that this is what we really want.

Let’s hope that the only poll that really matters proves them wrong yet again.

Regards, Frank SCAHILL, Coffs Habour.

Is Sally Townley what the electorate needs?

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WAS so pleased to see that Sally Townley has been convinced to put herself forward as an independent for Coffs Harbour.

She is just what we want - very hardworking, highly experienced in the reality of politics and passionate about balanced local development.

Most importantly, she is not constricted by

Local representation

DEAR News Of

The Area,

SOON it will be time to vote for a local member.

As some people will know, when Andrew

Fraser was in office he helped our son (who had had leukaemia) access additional help at school until Year 12.

Other assistance sought through Andrew over the years was quickly forthcoming.

party lines and so can vote for our interests.

Yesterday I watched the tide turn, part was still running out but already some was running in.

I think that Sally is part of the new tide that

Similarly, just after Gurmesh Singh was elected we contacted him in regard to a situation worrying us.

We were impressed with Gurmesh’s quick response and willingness to help.

Other people have spoken often of his personable nature and hard work.

Woolgoolga Red Cross is back in the swing

By Andrea FERRARI

HANDS ON, one of the favourite services provided by Woolgoolga Red Cross volunteers, is back after being curtailed for two years owing to visiting restrictions.

The Hands On program is provided by a group of volunteers who visit the local Retirement Village twice a month to provide hand and nail care to residents.

“The group is keen to restart and they look forward to the chats and stories shared over the hand care, particularly when residents have suffered from so many restrictions on visits,” Robyn Rooth from Woolgoolga Red Cross told News Of The Area.

Coordinator Yvonne McPhillips said the residents really appreciate the personal attention and the time the

volunteers can spend with them, chatting about all sorts of things.

Yvonne is always looking for new volunteers so if you would like to join this happy and generous group.

If you can help with Hands On, please give Yvonne a call on 0417 492 840.

“The other project we

are looking forward to is the annual Red Cross Calling Doorknock Appeal, conducted across Australia during March,” said Robyn.

The Woolgoolga Red Cross has run more than 30 very successful campaigns with the support of a team of volunteers and the generosity of residents of the northern

beaches area.

“As has been the case for the past two years there will be no actual doorknocking, but our volunteers will be manning street stalls, attending markets, conducting a coffee morning with the amazing support of Beachouse Café, on Beach Street, and placing collection buckets at various businesses.”

Coordinator Judy Boyle stresses the importance of this campaign, saying, “After years of drought, bushfires, and floods our communities need more support than ever and the Red Cross can be guaranteed to be there to aid recovery efforts for many years.

“Your help is so necessary to continue this humanitarian effort.”

The Branch’s regular Friendship Afternoon Teas (FAT) are recommencing on Friday 24 February from 2pm at Woolgoolga Seniors Centre.

Coordinator Kerry has

we need for our electorate and hope that she gains wide support.

Regards, Howard DENGATE, Coffs Coast.

This is what people want: practical help, not just rhetoric.

Regards, Merrin VAN DARTEL, Sawtell.

arranged a great line-up of entertainment with the very enthusiastic UOK Ukulele group.

“These musicians always surprise us with their energetic routines and their talents,” said Robyn.

Local author Michel Vimal du Monteil will be talking about the story behind writing his successful novel ‘Where there is a Will’, set along the east coast of Australia.

Michel was born in France and arrived in Sydney on a short-term assignment. That turned into settling in Australia and he currently lives in Emerald Beach.

For further information about the FAT contacted Kerry on 0475 774 663.

For general enquiries about the work of the Red Cross or of the local Branch please contact President Carol on 0497 699 860.

q Red Cross Hands On training is given to volunteers.

q The Branch Hands On team of volunteers: Alice Lipman and Maria Bell with Coordinator Yvonne McPhillips, Sue Whelan and Ora Smyth.

HYPOTHETICAL Legal Look OPINION & LETTERS

By Manny WOOD

Clerical error leads to litigation

JANINE has two children that she raised as a single mother after her and her partner separated in the 1980s. She has not seen her ex-partner since their children turned eighteen.

When Janine was in her late 60s, she met, fell in love with and became engaged to a man named Paul.

Before the wedding, Janine instructed her solicitor to make a Will appointing her two children as her executors and naming them as the sole beneficiaries of her estate.

Janine and Paul had discussed Janine’s proposed Will and agreed that it would be for the best.

When asked by her solicitor why she was leaving Paul out of her Will, Janine said, “Paul is very well off and he doesn’t need anything from me.”

When Paul was in his early 80’s he was diagnosed with dementia and Janine became his carer until she unfortunately passed-away two years later.

Janine’s children took a copy of her Will to a solicitor who specialises in estate law.

The solicitor informed them that the Will did not contain a clause stating that it was “made in contemplation of marriage” and was therefore revoked in accordance with the Succession Act, when Janine and Paul were married. The bad news continues when the solicitor informs them that, “Given that Janine’s estate is worth about $400,000, the entire estate would ordinarily pass to Paul.”

After three years and thousands of dollars, the specialist solicitor is eventually able to prove in the Supreme Court that the omission of the words “made in contemplation of marriage” in the original Will was a “clerical error”.

The Court orders that the original Will be amended to finally give effect to Janine’s wishes.

The additional time, costs and stress would have been avoided had Janine initially gone to a solicitor who was experienced in estate planning.

Thank you to Jamie Visco for his assistance with this column.

Email Manny Wood, principal solicitor at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net. au or call him on (02) 66 487 487.

This column cannot be relied upon as legal advice.

DEAR News Of The Area, ELECTRIFICATION of transport will occur rapidly in the decades leading up to zero carbon emissions in 2050, but too little attention is being paid to such Personal Electric Vehicles (PEVs) as electric bikes, scooters, skateboards and mobility fourwheels.

I am pleased that the highway upgrade has made some provision for cyclists

Coffs Harbour nursing deficit

DEAR News Of The Area,

AS a Registered Nurse who works in the community I have seen firsthand the neglect the governments of the last decade have forced onto our most vulnerable community members, namely our aged population.

Coffs Harbour’s population has more than tripled in the last seven years with

no increase in nursing provision either in the community or within the hospital, with double shifts and understaffing becoming the new normal.

This is pushing nurses away from the profession and into careers where they are appreciated more, which is most of them.

I could write an essay on this problem but have kept it as brief as I can.

Regards, Reece CASSIDY,

Alternative information sources on referendum

DEAR News Of The Area,

A THOUSAND thanks to Stan Wood and Bruce Meder for their responses (NOTA 3/2/23) to Peter Weyling’s mischievous claim sourced apparently from the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA).

I would be a little less kind regarding the IPA, however.

Over many years this odious organisation could be best described as four miles right of Genghis Khan, rather than “conservative”.

There is a very important difference.

Northern Territory Senator Jacinta Price has accepted the IPA penny for many years and has, it would seem, had a very unfortunate persuasive influence on the

conservative thought within the National Party, leading to its current “no” approach to the upcoming referendum.

As an alternative information source, may I suggest Noel Pearson’s five Boyer Lectures, with particular reference to his first, ‘Who We Were, Who We Are, Who We Can Be’, his fourth, ‘Transformational School Education’ and fifth, ‘We, The Australian People’.

They run for about 30 minutes each and all are worth the airtime.

They are available for free on the ABC Listen app.

Thank you, Gwyn AUSTEN, Coffs Coast.

Personal Electric Vehicles

that currently extends from Woolgoolga to Sapphire, and on to Charlesworth Bay Road when the Bypass is built. Excellent combined bike and pedestrian facilities also extend south from the Englands Road roundabout to Bruce King Drive at Boambee.

Coffs Harbour City is covered by its 2014 Bike Plan, but much work needs to be done. Moreover, there is a missing link that currently extends from the southern end of Solitary Island Way to the Big Banana.

Bruxner Park Road is popular with cyclists because of its progressive gentle

gradient arising, as it does, from a former rail line.

The Luke Bowen footbridge is a useful crossing of the highway that will be moved and restored by the Bypass Project, but more use could be made of the underpass of the present highway at Pacific Bay Resort.

Apart from planning the routes and building the infrastructure, much work needs to be done to regulate the safe and efficient use of facilities by pedestrians and PEVs.

Coffs Harbour, as an eco-destination, could grab back its ranking as Australia’s

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au with Jasminda

Do

DEAR Jasminda,

A FRIEND recently asked me if I'd like all her son's clothes that he's grown out of as they would fit my son perfectly. He always wears fashionable clothes and designer brands, so I was really happy.

When she dropped them over last week, she said, “So, I'm only charging you $200 because we are such good friends. They are worth so much more”.

I was so taken aback that I said I'd do a bank transfer, but now I don't even want the clothes.

What should I do?

Dear Peggy,

Peggy H.

MY mum, in this instance, would say, “Take them back and throw them at her” which is her standard line for pretty much anything.

I tend to agree with her.

I can understand that you may be hesitant to be confrontational as it could have an impact on your friendship, but I think that horse has already bolted.

By withholding details that would have allowed you to make an informed decision, your friend has displayed unconscionable conduct or, in layman's terms, she's given you a bum steer.

If you keep the clothes and pay for them, you'll think about this incident each time your son wears them.

I'd deliver them back to her and say, “I had a think about you being able to get more money for the clothes, so, because we are such good friends, I'm giving you that option”.

Her reaction may help guide your decision about whether this is a friendship you want to invest any more time in.

More work needed to regulate

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

number one.

We might even begin to catch up with some

places in the world where similar plans are already well advanced. Regards, Max BRINSMEAD, Coffs Harbour.

Times gone by Coffs 1919 Flu Pandemic - Infection Invades! (Part 2)

By Karen FILEWOOD

AFTER the arrival and isolation in the jetty private hospital of Sampson and his two contacts, it was discovered that the ex-soldier did not have pneumonic influenza, but ordinary flu exacerbated by symptoms of gas poisoning he sustained in France.

He and his contacts were released, then the authorities and newspapers contacted to correct the rapidly

spreading news of the infection being in Coffs Harbour, despite Sampson not being officially diagnosed.

The newspapers reported with some satisfaction that there were no cases of the flu on the north coast.

Soon after, it was decided that four days must pass, from the time a ship left an infected port to the time of its examination and clearance at the next port of call, interstate or otherwise, before passengers could go ashore. Despite this and the concern of infection, state cabinet decided Coffs Harbour’s show could go ahead on Tuesday 18

February, as it was too late to call off arrangements.

Just six weeks after having ‘the best ever show held in Coffs Harbour’ the pneumonic flu arrived in Coffs Harbour.

Mr Irvine Smith, a well-known local motor proprietor had not long returned from his honeymoon in Sydney and was staying at the Pier Hotel.

Complaining of flu-like symptoms, Dr Larbalestier was called at 7:15 pm, who pronounced his symptoms as suspicious and after another doctor’s consultation at 8 pm he was officially diagnosed with pneumonic flu on Saturday, 29 March.

Reinstate sacked healthcare workers

DEAR News Of the Area,

I REFER to the front page of last week’s edition ‘Nurses in Crisis - Coffs Harbour nurses seeking urgent action on staff shortages’.

The elephant in the room, the current government sacked more than 180 fully qualified nurses and health care workers from the Coffs Harbour Health Campus in December 2021, because of their

vaccination status.

The pandemic has passed, the mandates are no longer in place according to the government, yet the discrimination against these workers remains, the same workplace discrimination applies to hundreds of sacked police, firefighters and educators.

The silence and/or ignorance of all those mentioned in this story; Gurmesh Singh the sitting member, Tony Judge the

Swept Under The Carpet

DEAR News Of The Area,

I WAS concerned to see local State MP Gurmesh Singh recently voicing his opposition to ‘campers’ at the Jetty foreshore, and expressing his desire for the closing of a loophole that exists – that which prevents Council Rangers from issuing fines or ‘move on’ directions to campers on RailCorp land.

Today’s nomads are often the victims of the overpopulation frenzy – some of them having spent years ‘on the road’.

The last thing they want to be doing is spending exorbitant amounts of money

being ‘herded into’ overpriced Caravan Parks - especially when they’re already spending significant amounts of tourist dollars during their stays.

Too many people are technically homeless, often because they can’t afford fixed-housing.

Others can’t find suitable fixed-housing due to lack of supply.

All this is exacerbated by demand continually outstripping supply - driven by the taxpayer-funded mass immigration program, and ‘baby incentive’ schemes (‘the frenzy’).

I’d much rather see caravans and

Challenging Times

DEAR News Of The Area,

I AM starting to feel how the native people of this country felt following the white invasion.

But it’s happening again to our beautiful Bellingen Shire.

We the locals are probably still the majority, but being invaded by this tourist plague, plus of course the cashed-up tree changers from the south.

But following one of the district’s most pristine waterways and others supposedly being closed to swimming via pollution, the penny has dropped.

Some are now saying maybe we must set a balance between tourism and the environment.

But the horse has bolted, Bello is now

on the map.

Our environmental warriors are ignorant to the fact that masses of humans are the greatest threat to the environment on the planet.

How could we have ignored Byron Bay and surrounds as an example.

There are a reported 250 B&Bs in the Bellingen Shire.

Affordable rentals for locals are now a pipe dream.

Our kids, even if they are able to find a job outside a coffee shop, can’t afford to live here.

There is a huge ignored extra burden on Council for services for no return, other than to hit ratepayers who get nothing from tourists other than increased charges and a reduction in long established quality

Labour candidate, the representatives for Nurses and Midwives Association is absolutely astonishing.

Wake up!

Reinstate the sacked healthcare workers, nurses, police and firefighters and let’s all move on.

Problem solved in a heartbeat.

Regards, Wayne PRATT, Coffs Harbour.

campers amongst the greenery at the Jetty, than it becoming a haven for the ‘haves’ (rather than the ‘have-nots’) –overshadowed by multistory monstrosities (those great examples of overpopulation, where humans pile on top of humans).

In the very least, a voice for the homeless is well and truly overdue in this country.

This is a serious and growing issue affecting all ages and races.

And it’s continually being ‘swept under the carpet’ by Federal and State MP’s, hell-bent on upholding their ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach to their own people. Regards, Richie TASSICKER, Toormina.

of life.

Over to Council’s huge, proposed rate increase on top of already large lifts in service charges.

I could write a book putting Prince Harry to shame detailing how our Council once performed on a shoestring compared to today.

Today we have officers for everything, positions inconceivable in the past, yet not an officer for savings and inefficiency.

There are no more roads today than yesterday, excluding some urban, and no more bridges.

The Pacific Highway north and south, and Waterfall Way east and west is no cost to Council.

The biggest furphy of all is that a large section of the Shire is non-rateable, an absolute bonus costing Council not a cent (thank God).

But to be fair, Council’s role was once

The Pier Hotel was immediately quarantined for four days and a police constable placed on guard overnight in case anyone tried to leave.

The shire engineer, under instructions from the Dorrigo Shire Council, immediately obtained the key for an empty house in North Street, behind the police station and ordered a stretcher, bedding and other supplies to be sent there.

After unsuccessfully searching for a nurse, the patient’s sister, Violet, volunteered, then after more delays in finding transport, Irvine Smith was transferred to the house around 11 pm that night.

Solving Jetty Foreshores parking, traffic issues

DEAR News Of The Area, THE Jetty Foreshores development has great potential but parking and traffic will continue to be a problem and a hazard for pedestrians.

Re-routing Jordan Esplanade to run alongside the railway line would allow for an undivided Foreshores green space.

The movement of pedestrians and traffic would be freer and altogether it would be a safer, more pleasant experience.

Kind regards, David EISLER, Coffs Harbour.

to provide basic services, roads and bridges etc.

Today the Council is pressured to provide a range of social welfare services for an ever-demanding community, but often funded by millions in special grants etc.

Once a Council employee was required to reside in the Shire.

The number from outside the area today makes a mockery of employing local.

These are challenging times and it is easy to cast stones.

There are always some positives, but it is easier to blow someone else’s cash than your own.

Regards, Darcey BROWNING, Bellingen Shire.

Orlando Street and Highway intersection

DEAR News Of The Area,

I APPRECIATE that there are restrictions to obtaining more road width exiting Orlando Street across to Bray Street and either way onto the Highway caused by the bridge over the storm water channel.

The situation is exacerbated by the

straight ahead/right turn lane being full of vehicles that predominantly wish to turn right onto the highway and more often than not the right hand lane is basically empty as vehicles can’t access it.

If the left turn from the highway adjacent to the Toyota dealer was made narrower there would be enough to have two westbound

lanes in Orlando Street back past Mitre 10.

The left of these would be dedicated to straight ahead into Bray St or a left turn south onto the highway (without the need to cross three lanes to the centre of the road).

The right would be a dedicated lane to make a right hand turn north on the highway.

Make the section from the highway to

GDT Seccombe Cl 40kph.

Similarly, make the left lane going west on Stadium Dr a left turn only.

Regards, Peter G FARQUHAR, East Coast Cabinets.

Coffs Harbour first grade cricket season heads towards finals series

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour District Cricket Association’s first grade season is heading towards its finals series, with the latest round of matches played last weekend.

Nana Glen beat the Northern Districts Rebels

by two wickets in a match between two top four teams at Woolgoolga.

Nana Glen bowled out the Rebels for 120 and then finished at 8/121.

Diggers Cricket Club beat Urunga by 13 runs in their match at Fitzroy Oval.

Diggers set an opening

total of 9/168, with Mitchell Williams top scoring with 37.

Vikram Saini was the best of the Urunga bowlers taking 3/26 from 8 overs.

Diggers successfully defended their total as Urunga finished at 9/155.

Reuben Carey had a sensational spell of 4/9 from

his 8 overs.

Bellingen had a dominant 9 wicket win at home against Sawtell at Connell Park.

The home side bowled out Sawtell for 130 with Adam Marks taking 3/23 from his 7 overs.

Mike Hartley led home the successful run chase finishing

on 82 not out.

The first-grade season continues this weekend with Round 17 matches in Coffs Harbour and Urunga, with just two rounds to go before this season’s finals series.

Ladder leaders Coffs Colts host Nana Glen at the Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park.

Diggers Cricket Club host the Northern Districts Rebels at Fitzroy Oval, and Urunga

host Bellingen. First grade standings. First grade standings.

1.Coffs Colts. 38 points. 9 wins. 2.Bellingen. 34 points. 8 wins. 3.Nana Glen. 34 points.

8 wins. 4.Northern Districts Rebels. 28 points. 6 wins.

5.Sawtell. 24 points. 5 wins.

6.Diggers Cricket Club. 20 points. 4 wins. 7.Urunga. 6 points. 1 win.

Coffs junior Oztag teams prepare for NSW State Championships

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour’s best junior Oztag sides are preparing to take on the state’s finest during next week’s NSW State Championships in Coffs Harbour.

This year's NSW Junior State Cup gets underway on Friday, February 24 and runs for three days with games at the Ce.x Coffs International Stadium and surrounding fields.

Coffs Harbour sides will feature in five divisions, including the Girls 14s, 15s, and 17s, and Boys 12s and 17s.

Coffs Harbour coach and team manager Mel Cowgill said preparations had been going well for the State Championships as Coffs teams got ready to represent the region at home.

“They are looking

good for the state championships,” she said.

“Our 17s girls have struggled a bit for numbers in training, but we have consistently had the same 8 to10 players which is good.

“The 14s girls have also been training every week and starting to show some improvements.

“The 17s boys are looking strong and the 12s boys have been training hard starting before the Christmas holidays.

“We are hopeful for a few wins in the older age groups especially.”

The homegrown Coffs Harbour sides will take on junior teams between the ages of 11-17 from across NSW, as they vie to be crowned state champions.

Following the Junior State Championships, Coffs Harbour will host the NSW Senior State Championships on 17-19 March.

Football kicks off!

By David WIGLEY

THE 2023 football season kicks off on Saturday 19 February as teams across the North Coast compete in the second round of the Australia Cup.

Senior teams have been training since early January with pre-season friendlies taking place over the last few weeks.

A record nine teams from the North Coast have entered this year’s Australia Cup will form the backbone of this year’s NCF Premier League.

Sawtell FC travel south to take on Lake Cathie FC on Saturday whilst the Northern Storm venture north to face Westlawn Tigers in Grafton on Sunday 19 February.

Urunga FC have entered the competition for the first time in several seasons and travel to Alstonville.

Coffs Coast Tigers and Woolgoolga both head inland to face Demon Knights

(Armidale) and Inverell FC respectively.

Coffs City United and Bellingen FC enjoy home fixtures in front of their home supporters with the

Lions kicking off at 7pm on Saturday 18 February against Bangalow and Bellingen FC against Oxley Vale Attunga at Connell Park the day after.

Many senior and junior players have been staying sharp over the summer participating in six-a-side competitions at Woolgoolga, Coffs United, Urunga, Nambucca and the Coffs Coast Synthetics.

Coffs City United

President Brett Hodgekiss believes 2023 is going to be a bumper year with a gust of momentum from the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia.

“There’s a huge buzz around community football with the Women’s World Cup

being hosted in Australia and New Zealand later in the year,” he said.

“Women’s football is on the rise, there’s unlimited growth space.

“Football Australia have set out a new goal where they want registrations split evenly between males and females by 2027.

“That’s why they have put a legacy team in place to try and continue the momentum once the competition is over this year.”

Second round Australia Cup fixtures featuring North Coast teams:

Westlawn Tigers

Football Club v Northern Storm Football Club

Bellingen Football Club v Oxley Vale Attunga

Alstonville v Urunga

Football Club

Inverell v Woolgoolga

United FC

Lake Cathie v Sawtell FC

Port United v Maclean FC

Coffs City United Football Club v Bangalow

Demon Knights v Coffs Coast Tigers FC

q The Coffs Harbour 11s boys during last year's NSW State Championships.

q Footballers keeping fit over summer participating in the six-a-side competition at Coffs City United.

NSW champion crowned at Grafton Speedway

By Aiden BURGESS

SHANE Carlson has been crowned state champion during the latest night of racing at Grafton Speedway.

The Raymond Terrace driver won the NSW RSA Street Stockers Title, which was his second NSW title victory.

The veteran of 30 plus years of racing added another NSW Title to his trophy cabinet.

After dominating the heat-race action, Coffs Harbour driver Chris Corbett started the NSW Title deciding feature race from pole position.

From the start, the current

Queensland SSA Street Stock Title holder powered to the lead and built up a handy buffer over his rivals.

However, he had his run brought to a premature end during the middle stages of the feature race when he was forced to retire due to engine woes.

With Corbett out of the running and on the infield, Carlson inherited the lead, and he was able to make the most of his fortune and went on to score a solid victory ahead of Casino’s Brock Armstrong in second and local driver Brenden Hayes in third.

Defending NSW Champion Chris Marino

endured a tough run during the qualifying heat races, which saw him innocently involved in a heavy crash, and consequently started from towards the back of the feature-race field.

The Sydney driver fought his way through the field to finish sixth.

The next race meeting at Grafton Speedway is set to be held on Saturday, March 25, headlined by the V8 Dirt Modifieds.

The support action will include RSA Street Stockers, Production Sedans, RSA Four Cylinder Sedans, SSA Street Stocks, Stock Cars and Junior Sedans.

Sawtell Golf Club scores $100,000 grant

By Aiden BURGESS

SAWTELL Golf Club has scored a $100,000 grant

thanks to Round Five of the NSW Government’s Stronger

Final round of matches played in T20 Cup

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Harbour District Cricket Association’s T20 Cup regular season recently ended with the final round of matches played across the region.

The Northern Districts Rebels finished on top of the ladder after a 16-run win against Nana Glen at the Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park.

The Rebels opened the batting and posted 6/140, with Angus Rissel finishing on 31 not out.

The Rebels bowlers then kept Nana Glen to 6/124, with Aaron Singh the pick of the bowling attack taking 4/23

from 4 overs.

Matt Giri top scored for Nana Glen with 43.

Sawtell won a close one against Bellingen/Valleys with a six-run win at home at Richardson Park.

Sawtell opened the batting and set a top total of 6/190, thanks largely to an awesome knock from Tyh Murphy who blasted 108 from 61 balls, which included 8 sixes.

Bellingen/Valleys

finished at 5/184 as Taylor Gilbert scored 49 from 35 balls and Lincoln Kellett hit 40 from 30.

Coffs Colts Green were also winners in the final round with a dominant 145

Country Communities Fund. The funding has been allocated for the club’s Installation of Accessible Pathways project.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the funding would allow accessible pathways for Sawtell Golf Club’s course.

“This important initiative will see Sawtell Golf Club’s installation of accessible pathways on their picturesque 18-hole golf

course,” he said.

“These accessible pathways will provide a more accessible golf course for Sawtell Golf Club members and guests and will attract a wider range of user groups from the Sawtell community and beyond.”

Round Five of the Stronger Country Communities Fund will support local community and sporting infrastructure projects, street beautification, public programs and events that display the best of local character and community spirit.

Round 5 will see a further $160 million in funding for community projects that increase the wellbeing of regional NSW communities, including up to $50 million for projects delivered by community organisations.

The Stronger Country Communities Fund is part of the NSW Government’s $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies, and improve services and community infrastructure in the regions.

run win against Diggers Cricket Club at Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park.

The Colts set an imposing total of 5/198, with Robert Denne finishing on 52 not out.

The Colts then bowled out Diggers for 53, as Prabhjot Singh took 4/21 from his 4 overs.

T20 Cup standings.

1.Northern Districts Rebels. 12 points. 3 wins. 2.Bellingen/ Valleys. 12 points. 3 wins. 3.Coffs Colts Green. 8 points. 2 wins. 4.Sawtell. 8 points. 2 wins. 5.Coffs Colts Yellow. 4 points. 1 win. 6.Nana Glen. 4 points. 1 win. 7.Diggers Cricket Club. 0 points. 0 wins.

q Brock Armstrong, Shane Carlson and Brenden Hayes on the podium.

q Sawtell Golf Club president Keith Rhoades and Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh.

Girls take part in Australian Rules development clinics

By Aiden BURGESS

AUSTRALIAN Rules girls

footy continues to kick

goals on the North Coast with over 40 participants turning out to be part of the first in the series of Force

Girls Development Clinics. This was the first ever session of its nature held locally and the fantastic

Premier League teams play opening day of two-day matches

By Aiden BURGESS

TEST match style cricket has once again been played in the region with North Coast Cricket Council’s Premier League teams playing their first days of two day matches last weekend.

The Northern Districts Rebels are chasing another 145 runs for victory after the first day of their match against Harwood at Harwood Oval.

The home side opened the batting and were bowled out for 174 from 56.1 overs, due largely to a destructive spell from Anu Grewal who took 7/55 from his 20.1 overs for the Rebels.

Hayden McMahon top scored for Harwood with 51.

The Rebels trail by

144 runs and were 1/30 at stumps.

Sawtell are in a commanding position at home against the Coffs Colts after the first day of their match at Richardson Park.

The home side bowled out the Colts for 116 from 56.1 overs, with Mitchell Westley producing a terrific spell taking 3/13 from 8.1 overs which included the Colts openers.

Billy Carroll played a lone hand for the Colts with a knock of 48.

In reply Sawtell were 2/120 at stumps taking a four-run lead into the second day.

Captain Trent Dierick set up the innings with a knock of 53 from 39 balls which included 8 fours.

The Sawtell captain could not have been happier as his side headed into Day 2.

response showed that the girls can't get enough exposure to footy, even when the session is held on a hot Saturday morning more than two months before the season is due to

begin.

Participants ranged in ages from twelve to seventeen, and in experience from first timers to experienced representative players.

The coaches catered for this by splitting into groups based on experience and ensuring that all of the players were able to build upon their current skills.

AFL NSW/ACT Development Lead, Matt Crawley, said that the response was overwhelmingly positive.

"You could see from the smiles on their faces just how much the girls were enjoying themselves," he said.

"We had a number of girls who are new to AFL who found that the skills they've learned in other sports were instantly transferable to footy.

“These girls loved the chance to build those skill sets ahead of the season and are all committed to joining a club in 2023.

"Our experienced players really appreciated the chance to get together

early in the pre-season, regain their touch and feel for the footy, and start to build their game sense.

"The format was a real winner and we expect to see the numbers continue to grow across the remaining sessions."

Community Football and Competition Manager for Northern NSW, Paul Taylor, said he expected growth in the girls game this season.

“We had an exceptional response to the first of our Force Girls Development Clinics with over 40 girls coming along and having an absolute ball,” he said.

“The girls ranged from newcomers to experienced representative performers, with all learning and improving their games.

“Based on the response we’re already anticipating growth across both our Youth Girls 14 and 17 age groups, with likely additional teams in Nambucca, Port Macquarie, and the Northern Beaches (Woolgoolga).

Further sessions will be conducted prior to the start of the season, and you can follow AFL North Coast social media platforms to find out where and when.

“We are in a good position after day one, and I couldn't ask for any more,” he said.

Diggers/Nana Glen

All Stars are chasing 281 for victory in their match against Valleys Cricket at Phillip Hughes Oval.

The ladder leaders finished all out for 280 from their 68.5 overs, led by a tremendous knock of 104 from Justin Gilbert.

Ty Adams had a stellar spell for the All Stars taking 5/101 from 28 overs.

The All Stars were 0/9 at stumps and trail by 271 runs heading into the second day.

The latest round of the Premier League continues this weekend with the second day of two-day matches played in Sawtell, Macksville, and Harwood.

Swimming North Coast select Speedo swimming team

By Aiden BURGESS

Harbour

Boys: Alex Hill (13), Saxon Bannerman and Jude Bateman, Zephaniah Hagenaar and Edward Neal and Harrison

Wills (9) and Marcus Matthews (11).

Girls: Bridie Gordon (12), Zara Johnson and Holly Johnson (11), Pippa Keshk, Eden Campbell, Stella Jephcott and Lylah Weller (10), Millie Cook and Hope Mengel (9), Lake Hagenar, Jasmine Haworth and Indie Banks (8).

From Sawtell

Boys: Finn Growth and

Owen Stevens (13), Cohen McIlveen (9).

Girls: Matilda ElkinsBaker.

From Bellingen

Boys: Saul Easman (12).

From Macksville

Boys: Isaac Lines (10).

Girls: Keeley Sutton and Makaylah Schatzman (13), Kimberley Graham (11) and Chelsea Maynard (9).

q Anu Grewal took seven wickets against Harwood.

q Girls take part in a handball drill.

Hockey Coffs Coast juniors selected to NSW teams

By Aiden BURGESS

HOCKEY Coffs Coast’s top juniors have been selected to represent their state.

The talented players have been selected for their respective state teams to represent NSW at this year's National Championships.

Levi Fischer was selected to the Under 15 Boys State Field team, while Evie Laverty was selected to the Under 15 Girls State Field Team.

Max Miller was named to the Under 15 Boys Blues Field team.

The three Hockey Coffs

Coast juniors will now play at the 2023 Hockey Australia Under 15 Championships to be held in Darwin in April.

The three juniors play for Beaches Hockey Club in the Hockey Coffs Coast competition.

Fellow Hockey Coffs Coast juniors Indie Laverty and Maddison Osland were in the initial squad of 60 girls who trialled for the state team.

Ambrose Page is also in the NSW Under 21 Men’s State Field squad to trial for the state team who will compete at the Hockey Australia Under 21 Championships next

month in Sydney.

Hockey Coffs Coast is currently holding its various summer competitions.

Hockey Coffs Coast’s indoor competition is played at Southern Cross University each Monday night.

The Senior Twilight Hockey social competition is held each Wednesday night at the Coffs Harbour Hockey Complex.

Junior Twilight Hockey is also held on Wednesday afternoons.

The Summer Full Field Hockey competition is held on Thursday nights.

Coffs Harbour Racing Club to host Country Championships

By Aiden BURGESS

THE chance to race for big money at Royal Randwick will be up for grabs this weekend when Coffs Harbour Racing Club hosts a Newhaven Park Country Championships qualifying event.

The 2023 Country Championships series consists of seven qualifying races, each held at a club representing one racing region in NSW with Coffs Harbour representing the Northern Rivers region.

The first and second horse in each regional race will qualify for the $500,000 Newhaven Park Country Championships final to be held at Royal Randwick in Sydney on Day 1 of The Championships on Saturday, 1 April.

Each race will be worth

$150,000 in prize money, and will be contested by eligible horses that must be under the care of a country trainer in that region.

To accommodate the continuous growth and success of the series, an additional ‘Wild Card’ race will be featured in 2023.

Launched in 2015 as an initiative of Racing NSW, the Country Championships was created to support and promote NSW racing in country areas, ensuring that horses from across the state are part of The Championships in Sydney in the autumn.

The eight-race meeting at Coffs Harbour gets underway on Saturday afternoon.

Following the Country Championships, the Coffs Harbour Racing Club's next event will be the Memorial

Race Day on Thursday, 2 March.

The event is being held

to honour past committee members and others who have made significant

Next month also sees the club hosting Hospitality

Race Day and the running of the Hospitality Cup on Monday, 20 March.

A Storm is brewing

By David WIGLEY

NORTHERN Storm FC have enjoyed record numbers at pre-season training ahead of their Australia Cup clash against Westlawn Tigers in Grafton on Sunday 19 February.

A colossal 57 players have been through trials and training in anticipation of the 2023 NCF Premier League and the Australia Cup.

Despite encouraging results in pre-season, Northern Storm co-coach Cariag Caruana is taking nothing for granted.

“Pre-season has been good, they've been working hard and getting stuck-in with focus,” he said.

“To date, we've been

averaging about 35 players per session and as many as 42 on one night.

“We’ve had over 57 different players training and trialling, so that’s pretty good numbers.”

After three seasons in the Coastal Premier League, the Northern Storm have eluded the Westlawn Tigers who have played in the Clarence and Northern Leagues.

“They are an unknown quantity, I'm sure it will be a decent game,” said Craig.

“There's a lot of good footballers that come out of Grafton and we've had a couple come down here in the last few years.

“We know they produce quality, we're sure of that.

“We've picked up a lot of experience after three

years in the Coastal Premier League, hopefully that works in our favour.

“We must be good from the start and make sure we pick up where we left off.”

Caruana played down their 7-0 win against Maclean FC last week.

“Last week was just a trial, it doesn't really mean much, it gets real this weekend.

“We are putting in the hard work, we started our training with a run, the balls went away so we could focus on fitness.

This weekend is no different, we must start again and earn the right to play our football.”

Kick-off is 3pm on Sunday 19 February at Barnier Park, Grafton.

q Max Miller, Levi Fischer, Indie Laverty, Evie Laverty and Maddison Osland.

q Action from the Country Championships in 2021, the last time they were held in Coffs Harbour.

contributions to the club.

q Northern Storm young guns in pre-season training ahead of the Australia Cup: Miyasar Omar, Bradey Megarry and Tayne Denardis.

LEONARD

Basil William (Bob)

08.04.1913 - 20.02.1963

This day is remembered & silently kept, for one we loved & will never forget.

Lovingly remembered by wife Cecelia (dec'd) & daughters Kath & Barbara (both dec'd), & sons Bob, Peter, Dan, Geoff (dec'd) & John.

Return Thanks

The family of the late Vera de Bree wish to extend our sincere thanks to Allied Funerals and our heartfelt appreciation for the wonderful job they did on our Mums funeral.

Sincere thanks to Dr Jay Ruthnam for his many years of health care of Mum and for his and his wifes attendance at Mums funeral.

We also send our gratitude and appreciation to the staff of The Brelsford for the wonderful care during Mums time with you.

Death Notices

Dennis Hiland

Passed away peacefully surrounded by his closest family late February 8th 2023 at Coffs hospital. He was a loving husband, father and the best job of all, an awesome grandfather. So let’s have a beer and a cheer for the amazing life he has lived. Let’s go Sharkies!

Birthdays

Happy 90th Birthday Wishes

Joyce Seabrook

48 year resident of lovely Coffs Harbour. Long time bowler at Park Beach bowls club. Wonderful friend of Enid, Tom, Billie, Anne, Mark, Angela, Mike, Val and Phil.

Wishing you everything wonderful Joyce as you celebrate your milestone!

Friday, Feb 17th, 2023.

Friends of Joyce, please feel welcome to come along to the lovely Chill ‘n’ Chat Cafe in Coffs from 1pm, Friday Feb 17th, for a chat and cup of tea with Joyce. X

Our Dear Joyce, You are always thought of in a very special way, And you’re wished the finest things in life, Today and everyday!

Happy 90th Birthday Joyce!

Lots of love, Janet, Phil, Matt and Kim. XXXX

Positions

Work available for a retired carpenter and/or good handyman at $30 hour. Light work smartening up office & workroom. 6651 5565

Motels, houses, airbnbs and commerical cleaning. Couples or singles welcome. Week and weekend cleans available. Ph: 0448 308 580

OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking self employed reliable cleaners for a medium sized resort in Coff Harbour.

The following are required

• Cleaning experience

• Good time management and communication skills and the ability to work unsupervised

• Flexibility around hours to meet the needs of short stay rentals

ABN

• Police check

The position is available for immediate start and excellent pay rates are available. Please contact the managers: 02 66 00 1579 or 0431 114 113 or pacifictowers@pacifictowersbeachresort.com.au

WARNING NOTICE

Wild Dog Baiting

From the 21/02/2023 until 21/08/2023

1080 wild dog baits will be laid on at Rural properties at 19, 38, 58 and 60 Holloways Rd, Sandy Beach, 1481 Solitary Island Way and 139 Morgans Rd, Sandy Beach in an ongoing program.

Non target domestic animals may be affected. Owners are advised to keep domestic animals under control.

For further information: Ph 0411 634 999 e170223

HIT & RUN CAR CRASH

Date: 26 November 2022

Time: 4:50PM

M1 TUCABIA HIGHWAY Black Landcruiser towing large white van car has hit van rear causing major accident. Please any dashcam or witness the crash please send your contact details or dashcam.

CHERP AGM

Neighbourhood Centre

Thu 9th March

Time 10am

Your Paper, Your Voice Have Your Say

News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee or certainty of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the editor around available space, relevance and appropriateness.

Email to media@newsofthearea.com.au

I thank the community for help. accounts@aqtgroup.com.au

Tel: 0435 555 544

COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

DEADLINE: 12noon WEDNESDAYS

Adult Services For Sale

Licensed Agency by appointment only Phone 0419 999 158

Personal

Lady seeking gentleman for good company and outings

No strings attached 58-73 years Ph: 0415 981 605

ELECTRONIC key control, Merlin brand found in Coronation Ave on Saturday. Phone 0411 380 625 F100223

1 bedroom unit to rent in woolgoolga. No children pets or smokers. $350 per week. 0412 786 963

Garage Sale

SAT 18th Feb. 8am start. Old Coast Rd Repton. 4 households Follow signs.

Wanted to Buy

CAR trailer wanted any condition, registered or not, cash buyer. Ph Baz 0416 130 870

For Sale

BAR fridge, good condition $25.00 Ph 02 66564700

BEADS, sequins, swarovski crystals various sizes & colours perfect for dance costumes, jewellery making & craft, from $1 0415 981 605

For Sale For Sale

CD collection of 10, big bands, swing, dixieland, jazz. $10 the lot. 6651 8500

For Sale

WALKER 4 x 8inch

For Sale

2 large Trek @ Travel backpacks. 1 blue 1 green. VGC, used once. $45 each. Ph 0403 034 480 F050822

4 Rimu shevles, 1 metre long, 20cm wide with wall brackets. $35. Ph 6650 0380

A variety of pictures old & modern prints, several by old masters. Reducing collection, prices lower Phone 6652 3791 F070722

ANTIQUE Oak sideboard with ornate bevelled edge mirror. Open to offers. 0428 812 383 F300922

ARCHERY bows, make an offer. 6653 8390

1970 MUH Capt Cook

Bi-centenary mini sheet

Plus extra strip of 5 cents

In commemorative folder

Postmarked Botany 1970. $25. 6651 8500

BEDSIDE table dark wood with shelf 60cm High. GC $80 Ph 0418 414 040

BILLARD table 8ft x 4ft plus accessories - equal to new. Slate top, Drop pockets, turn legs and sides. Full price $5,000 Ph: 6653 7595

BISLEY womens workpant stretch cotton S10 1x black 1x stone Brand new $30 each Ph 0432 294 491

BOAT Garmin, 12 channel GPS128 40 years of fishing marks Coffs area. $275 Humminbird, wide eye fish finder and fishing gear. 0402 582 586

BOOTS blk 37 Dj & J $90. 0432 294 491

BOOTS, blk s37 Effegie $50. 0432 294 491 F260822

BRONZE Security door 2025mm H x 743mm W $100 Ph: 0432 869 587

FRIDGE, GC, goes well. Small freezer at top $100. 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688

MINCER Grinder Kenwood 1400w, inc sausage filler, mince your own meats, fruits, nuts Never used. $100 ono 0407 654 879

wheels top cond. $60

Ph: 6652 7062

2008 VW Golf hatch auto, 244,307km, 6 mth rego. $6,000. Ph 0477 990 446 Re020623

For Rent SOLD SOLD SOLD

COFFEE table, timber 650cm square $65 0418 278 966

COMPRESSED cement sheet ‘Hardies’part of sheet 1800mm x 900mm x 15mm, L-shaped. $65. 0407654879 F120822

COMPUTER aided drawing machine Open to offers Ph: 0429 945 374 F061022

COOKER Maxkon Multi 5 litre, nonstick 8 functions $70 0407 654 879

COOK canopy rangehood 60cm $50 Kitchen sink 1/1/2 basins with tap $50. Sawtell Ph: 0458 006 643

CRAFT collection cases Polished timber. Large 34x30cm 40 sections $20. Small 30x18cm 20 sections $10. Not made in China! Ph: 6651 8500 F150722

DINING table, 100cm x 150cm - extends to 200cm plus 6 padded chairs $400. 0402 745 637

DINING Table Octagon & 6 swivel chairs, exc cond. Moonee Beach $95. 0422 440 802

CAMPING Meat griller (fold over bbq basket) Unused $15 ono Ph 0439 682 267

CAR safety lock. Solid steel bar. Steering wheel to accelorator. 3 keys $25. Ph: 6651 8500

CARPET lounge/dining/ family room. Black with cream circle and swirl Thick quality, as new lovely and modern. $68 160cmW x 230cmL Ph: 0415 981 605

CARPET PIECE, 1.4m x 4.6m, new, cut pile light grey colour, ‘Elenus Grey’ durable soft, $100 Ph: 0407 654 879

Electronic Keyboard LK100

FRONT Bar off 1997 NK Pajero. Has been in storage since new. $ 90 ono. 6651 6076

GLASS punchset serves 12 $25 0414945023

GOLF Clubs, ladies bag and buggy $180 Ph 0401 221 864 e170223

GRILL/SANDWICH Toaster, quick clean Breville BGR400, 2400w $100 0407 654 879

NORDIC track VR 19 exercise bike w/ manual $550. 0417 481 120

OFFICE Chairs, high backed, black as new $75 each. Ph 0418 278 966

STEERING wheel lock bar, heavy duty $30 ono. 6656 2373 F160922

SWAG – Big Country King Single in great condition $100 0408 522 575

TANDEM Holstar Grand Tourer bike, exc cond $1200. 0458 274 319

TAPEGUN, Commercial hand tying machine includes 8 rolls tape & 5000 staples. $100 0407 654 879

WALKER, wide and very sturdy, as new $65. 6653 8390

WALKING STICK, dual handle, quad foot, easy lift from seated, adjust height, light wt/strong alum $50 0407654879 f170223

WALL unit, large, timber and glass, good cond teak. $75. 6652 5377

WETSUIT mens full steamer size medium Very good condition

Adrenalin brand. $50

Caravans

NISSAN Pulsar 2016

sedan 4cyl. Exc cond Rego til

2008 CONCEPT

DONUT Maker ‘Sunbeam’ DM3200, 5 normal size donuts $50. 0407 654 879

DRESSING Table 6 large drawers & mirror solid timber, exc cond $95. 0422 440 802 Moonee Beach

FLAVOURCHEF cooking systyem-brand new $50 ono SMS 0409 916 076

FREEZER upright 170L 6 drawers, excellent cond $150. 0406 889 419

GYM equipment Exercise bike, rowing machine, ab machine Open this Offers 0429 945 374

HEAD phones, bluetooth wireless, new. $35. 0428 250 205

JIGSAW colt js65jd exc cond $30. 6651 7710

JUST Cars magazines 60 total just $50 Ph: 0467 587 536

KAYAK - 2 x Ocean with seats and paddles. GC. $450 for both. Ph 0417 481 120 Re020623

LAMP stand ex cond $25 Ph: 02 6656 4700

LAPTOP hard drive cloning kit $30. 6649 2967

LARGE bench for work or decoration. 2m have a look. Phone 6652 3791 F270123

LOUNGE 2 seater single seater wood arm rests exc cond. $100 6651 7710

MATTRESS and base king single, as new $300

Ph: 0457 679 486

PET door/PetSafe Cat/small dog, two way 3 year warranty fitting instructions $22.50 New in box. Ph: 0415981605

PRESTIGE Pressure cooker perfect cond. Trivet, basket and spare seal incl. $99 Ph: 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688

SHOES, size 8. Summer style, Dianna Ferrari. New. Beige / dusty pink colour. Paid $138, sell for $50. 6651 4237 or 0459 040 014 F161222

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD CASIO

TENNIS Racquet Wilson Soft Shock Ultra 4.5 adult grip Titanium Graphite $100. 0407 654 879

Ph: 0427 665 477

WHEELCHAIR for sale Cruiser lll, new price $397 as new, scarcely used $200 Ph: 0415 554 510

ASCOT XLS 17` X 7`9” Registered to 5/23 U47139. Tandem Axle Island QS Bed, Many Extras, Excellent cond. Garaged when not in use. $30,000 ONO Ph 0402 860 642 ReS200123

Boats

TRAILER Sailer Hutton 24 registered. Trailer & boat ready to go. $7500. 0427034446

SHOWER Screen good cond 2 sides, one slider can deliver locally $99 call 0434 212 460

SOLD SOLD SOLD

SMALL table, dark wood with leather insert in top. $25. 6651 4237 or 0459 040 014

THE Great Courses university level complete 7 DVDs and books - Classic American Literature $50ono. The Great Courses university level complete 4 DVDs and books - Classic British Literature $50ono Ph: 0488 763 132

TIMBER venetian blinds various sizes 50ml slats Brown oak as new 2 sets 210cm W, 1 set 120cm W. From $50 to $100. 0405 083 245 F030622

TIMBER venetian blind 1145 x 1155 drop. $35 as new 0419166688

TOWBAR Complete suit Subaru Forrester 2000 - 2007. $90. 0422410169

Contact 0413 995 420

SOLD SOLD SOLD

TYPEWRITER, portable Vintage Royal 200, hard cover carry case, GC $100. 6653 1402 F030223

THE RIGHT TABLE SHOW TIDAL VARIATIONS AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS

The time variation should be added to the corresponding Fort Denison time. In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated.

To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

The stethoscope is

3. The end of the

tie is square.

4. A bone is missing from the skeleton’s ribs. 5. One pen on the doctor’s desk is shorter. WORD PLAY: Bald Eagle.

Puzzle Play 010

BIG CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

Auspac Media

SUDOKU

Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

NEWS OF THE AREA

YOU'RE JOKIN'

Why is pirating so addictive?

They say once ye lose yer first hand, ye get hooked.

How do pirates know that they are pirates?

They think, therefore they arrr.

What is a cat's favorite color?

Purrr-ple.

What song does a cat like best?

Three Blind Mice.

Where did the school kittens go for their field trip?

To the mew-seum.

What kind of kitten works for the Red Cross?

A first-aid kit.

Why are cats good at video games?

Because they have nine lives.

What did the cat say when he fell off the table? "Me-ow."

1 2 3 8 7 6 5 4 9 11 10 12

What is the difference between a cat that got photocopied and a cat that follows you?

One is a cat copy; the other is a copy cat.

What do you get when you cross a ball and a cat?

A fur ball.

What's a cat's favorite magazine?

A cat-alogue.

What cat likes living in water?

An octo-puss.

ANSWERS: 1. Paediatrics. 2. Aladdin’s lamp.

3. Plaster of Paris.

OVER

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

BETTER

SEVEN, 7pm

HOMES AND GARDENS

TUESDAY INSIGHT

SBS, 8.30pm

FRIDAY

KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE

SEVEN, 8.30pm

Director Matthew Vaughn (Layer Cake, Snatch) takes the reins for this big-budget British spy-action flick. Colin Firth (above) plays Harry Hart, a secret agent tasked with showing young recruit Gary “Eggsy” Unwin (Taron Egerton) the ropes. But it wouldn’t be an action flick without a bad guy – enter Samuel L. Jackson as an evil genius intent on wreaking havoc. Michael Caine, Mark Strong and Luke Skywalker himself Mark Hamill also make an appearance in this worthy adaptation of the comic book from Dave Gibbons and Mark Millar.

FRIDAY, February 17

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australia’s Ocean Odyssey. (R) 11.00 Australia Remastered. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Les Misérables. (Final, Mav, R) 2.15 QI. (PG, R)

2.45 Back Roads. (PG, R)

3.15 Gardening

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson talks garden ties.

8.30 Van Der Valk. (Final, Mlv, R) Part 3 of 3. Piet van der Valk and his team investigate the murder of a fashion vlogger.

10.00 The Larkins. (PG, R) Pop is suspicious of Tom’s motives.

10.50 ABC Late News. Coverage of the day’s events.

11.05 The Larkins. (Final, PG, R)

11.55 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

12.35 Unforgotten. (Final, Malv, R)

1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

Reliably enthusiastic and jam-packed with home and lifestyle inspiration, this stalwart series is back with its 29th season. Tonight, there’s something sweet, something spicy and something furry. Fried rice is given a twist with Karen Martini’s rice-savvy new dish. We’ve all gone a bit gung-ho before and wound up with too much cooked rice, but Karen turns it into a win with a unique take on the Chinese staple: pink fish fried rice with nori. It’s quick, easy and oh-so pretty. Dr Harry Cooper helps a family with an 18-month-old boxer that levels their backyard every time they leave, while Graham Ross is in the Apple Isle to try a tasty new variety of strawberry.

In a world where social media helps falsehoods and antisocial wild, this current affairs stalwart is a breath of intelligent, thoughtful civilised fresh air. Presenter Kumi Taguchi returns to lead a new season of educational and thought-provoking exploration and analysis. A stand-out amongst news shows thanks to its unique first-person stories and lively audience debate, it’s no surprise Insight has gripped audiences for more than a quarter of a century. Set to explore a wide range of topics this season including identity crime and mid-life sexual awakenings, the stalwart kicks off by probing political correctness, and whether it has gone too far.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Scotland: A Wild Year. 8.30 Megadams. 9.30 Lighthouses: Building The Impossible. (PGa, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R)

1.45 Das Boot. (Manv, R)

3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and Charlie Albone explore the green side of Vancouver.

8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Secret Service. (2014, MA15+lv, R) A troubled young man must prove his mettle, and save the world from a billionaire set on killing millions of people, after he is recruited as a candidate to join a secret British spy organisation. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Samuel L Jackson.

11.15 Australian Idol. (PGl, R) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 For The Love Of Pets. (PGam)

8.30 MOVIE: Muriel’s Wedding. (1994, Mls, R) A woman leaves her small town to find romance.

Toni Collette, Bill Hunter.

10.40 MOVIE: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2. (2016, PGs, R)

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.20 He Said/She Said. (PG)

6.30 The Project. Special guest is Lincoln Younes.

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. Guests include Salma Hayek.

8.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGl, R) Comedy game show featuring comedians performing a series of tricky tasks.

9.30 To Be Advised.

10.30 Just For Laughs. (Mls, R) Hosted by Nick Cody.

11.00 Just For Laughs Uncut. (Mls, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

ONTHEBOX

SATURDAY, February 18

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Blue Water Safari. (PG) 10.10 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.05 For The Love Of Dogs: What Happened Next. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. Four Continents C’ships. H’lights.

3.30 Stonehenge: The Lost Circle Revealed. (R) 4.40 Secret Scotland. (R) 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. (Premiere)

COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

6.25 Better Date Than Never. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Nonnatus House faces its biggest threat.

8.30 Midsomer Murders: 25

Years Of Mayhem. (Mv) A 25th anniversary special exploring the enduring popularity of Midsomer Murders

9.20 Hunting The Essex Lorry Killers. (Ma, R) Takes a look at the investigation into the deaths of 39 migrants found in the back of a truck.

10.20 Miniseries: Come Home. (Mal, R)

11.20 Rage Goes Retro. (MA15+adlhnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes.

8.30 Portillo In The Pyrenees: A Spiritual Quest. (PG)

9.30 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R)

10.25 Great Escapes With Morgan Freeman. (Ma, R)

11.15 Brooklyn Nine-Nine. (PGals, R)

3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SUNDAY, February 19

Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World. (PG, R)

6.00 Antiques Roadshow.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma) A body is found on a golf course.

8.30 Vera. (Ma) Part 1 of 4. Vera is called to a remote lighthouse where a body has been discovered lashed to a sailboat.

10.00 Miniseries: Butterfly. (Mal, R) Part 1 of 3.

10.45 Just Between Us: Family Is What You Make It. (Ml, R)

11.45 Les Misérables. (Final, Mav, R)

1.00 Victoria. (PG, R)

1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.15 The Recording Studio. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Blue Water Safari. (PG) 10.05 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.00 Outside: Beyond The Lens. (Premiere, PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Surf Life Saving. Australian Interstate C’ships. H’lights. 4.00 ISU Figure Skating Awards. 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ancient Egypt By Train. (PG)

8.30 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (PG) Part 2 of 3.

9.30 Black West. A look at the West from a black perspective.

10.30 Castles: Secrets, Mysteries And Legends. (Mahv, R)

11.35 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)

1.30 Why We Hate. (Mav, R)

3.10 The Source. (Ma, R)

4.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Patrol. (Return, PGa) Follows New Zealand border officials.

7.30 Million Pound Pawn. (PG) Part 1 of 3. Takes a look at the world of pawnbroking in the midst of the current economic crisis.

8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+v, R) A retired CIA black ops operative is forced back into action when his friend is killed while investigating a murdersuicide and he sets out to use his resources to find the culprit and get revenge. Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Ashton Sanders.

11.00 To Be Advised.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) Experts help a couple in distress.

8.30 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009, PGdlv, R) A homeless teenager becomes a gridiron player. Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw.

11.10 MOVIE: Concussion. (2015, Mal, R)

1.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PG, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG)

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) The lifeguards are on high alert.

6.30 To Be Advised.

7.30 NCIS. (Mv) NCIS agents investigate a suicide.

8.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv) Jane, Jimmy and Sam get captured in DC by a woman claiming to be a CIA agent demanding intel from the team, and it all ties into the mysterious suicide of a popular professor.

9.30 NCIS: Los Angeles. (Mv) The NCIS team learn that all their members have a $200,000 bounty on their heads.

10.30 FBI: International. (PGa)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 Seven News.

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

8.45 Kylie Vs Bee Gees. (PG, R)

9.45 Maternal. (Mals) A gruelling night shift leads Helen to confide in Jack. Catherine, Maryam and her friends from mosque decide to blow off some steam with a ladies’ night out, only to encounter an unexpected emergency.

11.45 Autopsy USA: George Harrison. (Mdv, R) A look at the death of George Harrison.

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.

10.10 Australian Crime Stories: Deadly Deception. (Mav, R)

11.15 The First 48. (Ma)

12.05 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Mav, R)

1.00 Explore TV. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Take Two. (R)

5.00 News Early Edition.

5.30 Today.

6.30 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. It is 21 days into the game and the recent tribe swap is breeding fear and doubt amongst the new tribes.

9.10 War Zone: Bear Grylls Meets President Zelenskyy. Bear Grylls meets Ukraine’s commander-in-chief, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

10.10 FBI. (Mdv, R) A young girl is kidnapped from day care.

11.00 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, February 20

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Landline. (R)

11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News.

1.00 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. (PG, R) 2.00 Midsomer Murders: 25 Years Of Mayhem. (Mv, R) 3.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Home Of The Year: Scotland. 10.10 Confucius Was A Foodie. (PG)

11.10 The Bridges That Built London. 12.05 WorldWatch. 2.20 Walking Britain’s Roman Roads. (PG, R) 3.15 Mastermind Aust. (R) 4.15

Britain’s Cathedrals With Tony Robinson. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

TUESDAY, February 21

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 Everyone’s A Critic. (PG, R) 11.10 Aussie Inventions That Changed The World. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Father Brown. (PG, R) 1.45 Gruen. (Ml, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Home Of The Year: Scotland. 10.10 Confucius Was A Foodie. (PG)

11.00 The Bridges That Built London. 12.00

WorldWatch. 2.20 Walking Britain’s Roman Roads. (PGasv, R) 3.10 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Cathedrals. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: One Small Indiscretion. (2017, Masv, R) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R) 2.30 Border Security: America’s Front Line. (PG, R)

The Chase Australia.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGs)

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

9.15 Starstruck. (PG) Ordinary members of the public team up in trios to transform into some of the world’s biggest music icons.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Busted In Bangkok. (Mal, R) Follows Thailand’s tourist police.

12.00 MOVIE: Locusts. (2019, MA15+l, R)

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Australian Survivor. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

8.40 Would I Lie To You? Australia. (Ml) Two teams, including Dave Hughes, Jacqui Lambie, Joel Creasey and Nina Oyama, go head-to-head.

9.40 Ghosts. (PGa) Freddie buys ghost-hunting equipment.

10.10 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mav, R) A young man accidentally shoots a cop.

11.00 The Project. (R)

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

News. 12.00 MOVIE: Terror In The Woods.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Australian Survivor. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

9.00 NCIS. (Mv, R) NCIS agents from Los Angeles, Washington and Hawaii investigate a suicide.

10.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) Jane, Jimmy and Sam get captured.

11.00 NCIS: Los Angeles. (Mv, R) Rountree and Fatima are ambushed.

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

ONTHEBOX

WEDNESDAY, February 22

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Q+A. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Short Cuts To Glory. (R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R)

COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 Peer To Peer. (R) 9.35 Home Of The Year: Scotland. 10.05 Confucius Was A Foodie. (PG) 11.00 The Bridges That Built London. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Insight. (R) 3.05 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Most Historic Towns. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

THURSDAY, February 23

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (Final) 10.10 Confucius Was A Foodie. 11.05 The Bridges That Built London. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.15 Walking Britain’s Roman Roads. (R) 3.10 Mastermind Aust. (R)

(R) 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.00 Brush With Fame. (R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Most Historic Towns. (PGavw, R)

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Escaping The Madhouse: The Nellie Bly Story. (2019, Masv, R) 2.00

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Code 1: The Martin Place Siege. (M)

8.30 The Front Bar: All Sports Edition. (Ml) A lighter look at the world of sport.

9.30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+l, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge.

10.40 The Latest: Seven News.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG) Follow the staff at the Animal Welfare League as it tries to find the right fit for a man with dog-attack trauma.

8.40 Fire Country. (PGdsv) A homeowner accuses Bode’s crew of stealing a designer watch during a fire mop-up.

9.40 Bull. (Ma, R) TAC’s strategy for a client is compromised.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

(R)

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Taskmaster Australia. (PGl) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (Return) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.30 The Montreal Comedy Festival.

10.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Ma, R) One of Cragen’s old cases is re-examined.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

COFFS COAST

Friday, 17 February 2023

Local Community News ~ Proudly Independent

Cam’s Hot Streak

By Aiden BURGESS

CAMERON Pollard has been on a real hot streak on the greens.

The Sawtell Golf Club member won two straight All Abilities titles on the Webex Players Series.

Pollard won the inaugural TPS All Abilities event at the TPS Victoria tournament at Rosebud Country Club.

He won the title by 13 shots after shooting rounds of 77 and 81 in the 36hole tournament, as the Webex Players Series added tournaments for golfers with disability for the first time.

He said playing alongside the pros in a televised event was the best part of playing at the TBS Victoria event.

“It’s bloody awesome, we CONTINUED Page 36

q Cameron Pollard celebrates his win in Victoria.