Coffs Coast News Of The Area 28 April 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

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

ANZAC of the Year for Woolgoolga’s Allan Crouch

FROM Page 1

ANZAC of the Year Awards are presented each year to recognise the efforts and achievements of up to seven Australians who have given service to their fellow Australians and to the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner.

This year four were presented and Allan is proud to be one of the recipients.

Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch Secretary Christopher Chayko told News Of The Area, “Allan has completed over 60 years of service to our nation and people, beginning with a full career in the Army Reserve, in addition to his civilian employment and family responsibilities, and then decades of work and leadership in community service organisations including Lions, Meals on Wheels, the RSL and many others.

“He remains a masters hockey player; and many have benefitted from his coaching and example on and off the field.

“Allan exemplifies the aims of the award to those who have 'given service to their fellow Australians and to the community in a positive, selfless and compassionate manner’,” Christopher said.

Allan shared his drive to help others with News Of The Area.

looked after them, as well through friendship and material assistance.

“After WW2 many of those POWs settled in that district, after bringing their families to Australia to live.

“Both of my sisters also gave much of their time to various charities around the Lismore and Kyogle districts, so I guess that helping others is in our blood,” he said.

For Allan the greatest high point in helping others is in assisting serving and ex-serving ADF members with welfare, while volunteering with the RSL, particularly the Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch.

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“I think it is an attitude that I was born with because of my parents’ caring nature towards their fellow man,” he said.

“Mum and Dad were battling share farmers, who right from my earliest memory helped our neighbours who were doing it even tougher than us, particularly with providing food for children.

“I can remember Italian prisoners of war (POW) working where we lived between Lismore and Kyogle, and how my parents

“This includes arranging RSL funerals for the families who request that service and then conducting the RSL services either in a church, hall, chapel or at a graveside.

“I also offered assistance to families of the deceased members by way of helping with compilation of documentation for various agencies such as DVA, and by companionship, when needed.”

Another high point for Allan is training and coaching young people.

“Particularly training civilians through

recruit training/initial employment training to be soldiers on many occasions in the Army Reserve, over many years,” he said.

“In most cases the end results surprised even those recruits with what they achieved and developed into.

“The same applied with coaching boys, girls, men and women in my chosen sport of field hockey.

“It was great to turn rank beginners into premiership winners, and now as a very senior Masters hockey player, see those young players still competing in their 40s, 50s and near 60s.”

Allan is thankful for his choices in helping others, citing the satisfaction of working hard with the Lions Club of Woolgoolga to donate over $150,000 worth of equipment to the various wards of Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

“To see the expressions of appreciation from those hardworking nurses and other staff makes it all worthwhile.

“My advice to others is to donate as much of your time as you can.

“It keeps you active and healthy and helps the community to survive,” he closed.

Private property damaged during plantation preparation

By Andrew VIVIAN

PAUL Parkinson and Dee Wanis are two very unhappy landowners.

After purchasing their property at Sherwood Creek, near Glenreagh, they went through an exhaustive process for almost 60 hectares (80 percent) of their land to be protected in perpetuity by a covenant that is now part of their title.

“We are now legally responsible to abide by the covenant,” Mr Parkinson said.

So, over Easter, they were dismayed to find what seemed to have been a large bulldozer had gouged metre-deep furrows through their property and across a creek bed, damaging the banks of the creek as well.

As well as a registered Aboriginal site, the impacted area also included an old road that Mr Parkinson and Ms Wanis own and are obliged to keep accessible for emergency vehicles, such as fire trucks.

However, they don’t consider a large bulldozer taking part in nearby plantation preparation to be an emergency vehicle.

A representative from Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) told News Of The Area that earlier this month a contractor machine working on preparing the plantation in Conglomerate State Forest for re-planting of trees used an existing creek crossing, resulting in some bogging and rutting of the surrounding area.

The spokesperson said Forestry Corporation regrets that this occurred and is liaising with the landholders on a plan for restoration of the site.

Mr Parkinson and Ms Wanis said they have spoken to but are not liaising with FCNSW and want to see independent expert assessments undertaken.

“They have been out and had a look but nothing has been decided,” Mr Parkinson said.

The landowners also want input into the selection of contractors and remediation works.

q Dee Wanis surveys some of the damage. Photo: Paul Parkinson.

q Major Allan Crouch OAM RFD (Retd) has been honoured with one of only four national ANZAC of the Year awards presented in 2023.

TRUCKS TARGETED

FROM Page 1

Harbour on the weekend.

Between 1.05am and 1.45am on Saturday 22 April 2023, police received a number of reports of large rocks and bricks being thrown from the Diamond Head Road overpass near Sandy Beach, on the M1, north of Coffs Harbour, at passing heavy vehicles.

Officers from Coffs-Clarence Police District have identified three trucks that were damaged by rocks thrown from the overpass.

A 32-year-old truck driver was struck in the chest when a rock shattered the windscreen of his prime mover.

He received minor injuries.

A 39-year-old man driving a prime mover a short distance behind was also targeted; the windscreen of his truck was shattered when a rock was thrown at the passenger side of his vehicle.

He was fortunate not to be injured.

In a third incident, a truckie aged 33 was travelling south on the M1 when a number of rocks were thrown at his prime mover.

This caused extensive damage to the windscreen of his vehicle.

He was uninjured.

Coffs-Clarence Police District Inspector Ben Atkinson

warned that the consequences of throwing rocks at vehicles could result in serious injury or even death.

“The motorway at Sandy Beach is a 110km/h signposted area – the force of any object striking a vehicle travelling at that speed may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, causing serious injury to the driver, resulting in a catastrophic accident –all because of the actions of some reckless people,” Insp Atkinson said.

“Police are appealing to

anyone who might have been driving through the Sandy Beach area last night and has dashcam footage of the Diamond Head Road overpass to contact police or Crime

Stoppers,” Insp Atkinson said. Anyone with information is urged to contact Coffs Harbour Police on (02) 6691 0799 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

q Officers from Coffs-Clarence Police District have identified three trucks that were damaged by rocks thrown from the overpass.

Coffs Bypass Action Group mediates for resolution

By Andrea FERRARI

MAJOR milestones with the construction of Coffs Harbour Bypass are overshadowing some residents’ concerns and inconveniences in their own backyard, as experienced by Korora homeowner Julie Lane.

When the easement at the end of her back yard was fenced across and the trees were cut down, reportedly without any inperson conversations from the builders or Transport for NSW, Julie reached out to Marina Rockett from the Coffs Bypass Action Group (CBAG), the group's representative on the Coffs Harbour Bypass Community Consultative Committee.

While she wasn’t complaining, Julie felt fobbed-off and concerned about what was happening and when.

She received flyers but no-one came to talk with her about the builders in her backyard.

The worry soon began impacting her health.

“As a person suffering numerous debilitating health issues including Multiple Sclerosis (MS), stress is

something I am meant to avoid,” Julie told News Of The Area.

“I am housebound during the warmer months because I can’t regulate my temperature, so when they came and fenced off my back yard and chopped all our shade trees down it was very upsetting.

“Combined with the worsening of my MS and also having to deal with neighbour issues on one side of us, I have suffered numerous relapses since August last year when the fence went up,” she said.

“I was promised that the fence would be removed by November 2022, but nothing happened.

“We weren’t given any formal notification of any

work, only random workers giving bits of information and flyers stuck in our letter box.

“What are people’s rights and the appropriate length of time regarding access to one’s backyard?

“Surely they can’t just not allow us access to our own land indefinitely; we still pay rates on this land,” said Julie.

After having spent a small fortune on cooling and heat preventative measures for the house, Julie just wanted her back garden back so she could replant trees for shade.

“It really sucks when you’re just stuck inside all day for months on end, not to mention costly running the air conditioner; my lovely bedroom has turned into a jail cell.”

Julie felt she had been given the run-around on her rights and the continued use of her backyard until she heard about the Coffs Harbour Bypass Community Consultative Committee and contacted Marina.

“I want to thank Marina for her recent help with organising a meeting to help me get at least a portion of my backyard back in Korora.

“Without her help I just couldn’t have achieved this small outcome as no one would listen or do anything until she helped.

“I was also finding it very difficult to have to talk with people due to a few health issues and having her act on my behalf as well as her

support in this matter was greatly appreciated.

“So, if you’re having trouble with anything to do with the bypass I recommend getting some help from Marina at the Coffs Harbour Bypass Community Consultative Committee.”

Marina said the outcome achieved for Julie was “the best result possible at this point in time”.

In closing, Julie acknowledges the kindness shown to her around the construction works affecting her dog’s burial place.

“I would also like to thank Transport NSW and Quickway for looking after our pet dog Bella’s grave as respectfully and as nicely

as you could, given the circumstances,” said Julie.

A Transport for NSW spokesperson told NOTA, “Transport for NSW is working closely with residents to minimise the impacts of work for the Coffs Harbour bypass project on their properties, including the Fern Tree Place work location.

“Transport for NSW has met in person with this customer on a number of occasions.”

To contact the Coffs Harbour Bypass Action Group and the Coffs Harbour Bypass Community Consultative Committee, email coffsbypassactiongroup@ gmail.com.

q Korora resident Julie’s back garden pool area now faces onto a temporary fence put up by Transport for NSW/Joint Venture construction for Coffs Bypass, on the former tree-filled easement.

q Coffs Harbour Bypass construction may use the easement on and adjacent to private properties without inperson consultation, leaving one resident feeling fobbed-off.

Knitting Nannas unite to protest Forestry Corp

By Andrea FERRARI

KNITTING Nannas Coffs

Harbour Loop is gathering for peaceful protests outside Forestry Corporation’s (FC)

Coffs Harbour office at 30 Park Avenue every Friday.

The purpose is to raise awareness of the work of Forestry Corporation across the Coffs Coast’s native state forests, notably Newry, Conglomerate and Orara East State Forests, and the region’s plantation forests.

“We’re calling for a moratorium on native forest logging until the borders of the proposed Great Koala National Park (GKNP) are established, after which no logging will be done in forests that fall into that protected area,” activist Chris Degan from Knitting Nannas Coffs Harbour told News Of The Area.

The Knitting Nannas launched their protest outside Forestry Corporation’s Coffs office on Friday 14 April.

In their ‘sit and knits’ they are aiming to show people

what is happening in local forests by sharing ecological facts, citizen science and lived experience.

The group is pointing out the methods used by FC contractors for logging across the habitats of endangered species such as koalas, greater gliders and glossy black cockatoos.

“People don’t know how Forestry Corp works up here on the Mid North Coast.

“We have chatted with people who stop by, and they say they didn’t realise how disastrous the situation is and they don’t understand the effect of destroying regrowth plantations within a native forest.”

Chris suggests there is a “gulf” between Forestry Corp's head office in Sydney and what’s happening in the regions through the way contractors operate.

“The logging contractors may leave a koala habitat tree and a small buffer zone but they cut down trees around them and destroy the broader

habitat,” she said.

The Knitting Nannas group first formed in 2012 in NSW’s Northern Rivers with a focus on stopping the practices of coal seam gas.

Chris was a member of that group briefly in the early days, before joining the Canberra wing of the organisation.

Now a resident of Coffs Harbour, Chris is bringing her passion for climate issues to the Knitting Nannas Coffs Harbour Loop group.

“It’s about Mother Earth really,” she said of her driving force.

“As adults we have a responsibility to the younger generation to prevent damage to our climate, land, forests, rivers and oceans.”

The Friday protests, with members dressed in striking yellow and black coloured outfits, are attracting a huge number of toots from supportive drivers.

“A policeman came up to us on the first day and asked what we were doing and said all was OK and to make sure the

pathway was kept clear.

“He then went into the FC office and told them we’d be there every Friday.”

A Forestry Corporation spokesperson told NOTA, “NSW state forests provide habitat for wildlife, support primary industries like apiary and grazing, provide renewable time for local mills and access for tourism

experiences including free camping, bushwalks, 4WDing and mountain biking.

“Around half of the state forest area is permanently set aside and operations in the remaining are carefully planned and undertaken in line with strict environmental conditions.

“Timber harvesting takes place in around one percent

of native state forests each year and every tree harvested for decking, flooring, wharf timbers and electricity poles is regrown for future generations.”

To chat with the Knitting Nannas Coffs Harbour Loop, pop along on Friday from 8.30am until midday, or find out more at www.knittingnannas.com.

q Knitting Nannas Coffs Harbour Loop gather for its first Friday peaceful protest outside Forestry Corporation’s Coffs Harbour office on Park Street.

q Chris Degan, dressed as the koala they wish to protect, is a guiding force of the Knitting Nannas Coffs Harbour Loop.

q Desnee McCosker, President of Jetty Dunecare, a long-time Coffs Harbour environmentalist and protector of the land and wildlife, has joined the Knitting Nannas.

q Nikki Read is working closely with Chris Degan to power up the peaceful protests.

Bello’s Community Hosting Program is growing

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Community Hosting Program (CHP), an initiative of Bellingen Shire’s Housing Matters Action Group, is achieving its aim to offer a more immediate solution to the local housing crisis.

Since its launch in February, the CHP has put a number of roofs over heads and now

needs more hosts.

The idea is that homeowners with spare spaces, such as a room, a studio or a granny flat, can choose to share it with a lodger (from the Shire) for an affordable rent, with the CHP team on hand to help match hosts and lodgers and assist with the details.

Describing the plight of vulnerable locals, CHP team member Ute Schulenberg told News Of The Area, “Stressed does not even begin to describe how first-time parent Sigourney was feeling as the expiry date on her lease drew ever closer and her relentless efforts to find a home for herself and seven-month-old Onyx had led to naught.”

28-year-old Sigourney said she began exploring the option of “having to live in my car with my baby”.

“But I was also trying to stay positive,” Sigourney said.

“I knew I wanted a little cottage with white walls and running water… and then I saw the Facebook post about the launch of the Community Hosting Program pilot and there was my cottage.”

Sigourney, who spent much of her childhood in Urunga, contacted the team immediately and got to work on the necessary paperwork.

“That was on the Monday… on Tuesday she met her hosts, on Thursday they all signed the agreement, on Friday she moved in, on Saturday her lease expired,” said Ute.

Sigourney described the process as wonderful.

“Everyone has been so accommodating,” she said.

Sigourney’s hosts are Rob Thomas and Sue McKinnon, who heard about the program through local media and felt they could help.

“We liked the idea of a program that supported local people who were struggling to find something affordable to rent,” Sue said.

“We had a separate space that we used for family and friends, but I felt uncomfortable that it was empty much of the time, given the rental crisis and we didn’t want to put it on AirBnB.”

For Rob, it was the CHP’s community focus that appealed to him.

“I like that it is helping vulnerable locals but can potentially also house local service workers, such as a chippie or a nurse,” Rob said.

“The lodger can also contribute… for example, in the garden or caring for the dog if we’re away.

“The program encourages a noncommercial friendly relationship; its community focus puts humanity before money and greed.”

Sue agreed, adding that while it was not an arrangement that would suit everyone, it worked for them.

“Rob and Sue are great – Onyx and I love being here,” said Sigourney.

If you are a Bellingen Shire homeowner interested in opening your home to a local lodger, please contact hosting@ housingmatters.org.au or phone 6655 1121 Option 4.

q Sigourney and Onyx with hosts Sue McKinnon and Rob Thomas. Photo: Ute Schulenberg.

A program connecting homeowners and lodgers in Bellingen Shire is in need of more hosts

Bonza to improve choice for Coffs Coast travellers

By Andrea FERRARI

IMPROVED options for travellers coming in and out of Coffs Harbour Airport have landed with the arrival of Bonza airline, touching down on the city’s tarmac for the first time on Thursday night 20 April.

Connecting the homes of two Aussie icons, the Big Pineapple and the Big Banana, the new route will operate twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays with flights starting at $49 per person one way, with some celebratory fares from $29.

Coffs Harbour is the twelfth destination to launch from Bonza’s home base on the Sunshine Coast after the airline introduced Toowoomba Wellcamp to its operations last week.

All routes on Bonza’s initial route map will be introduced by 23 May with destinations including Tamworth, Bundaberg and Gladstone to come.

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan greeted customers in Coffs Harbour as they landed to a warm welcome from members of the community and the local tourism industry from across the

NSW Mid North Coast.

“To celebrate today’s launch, we have dropped some $29 fares into the Fly Bonza app so we suggest locals get in quick to secure their next holiday,” said Tim Jordan.

“Our schedule means you can take a long weekend in either destination and explore something new,” he added.

On hand to welcome the inaugural flight was Coffs Harbour Airport General Manager Frank Mondello, who said, “This direct route is a first between the two regions and is a major milestone that will have far reaching economic benefits to the Mid North Coast of NSW.

“With more than 38,000 seats available annually between the two destinations, this new route will increase the passenger numbers arriving into Coffs Harbour Airport, who will be able to travel quickly and easily for business or pleasure, and will offer a wonderful holiday alternative for travellers wanting to explore the beautiful Coffs Coast region.

“While we might be known for our iconic Big Banana we are also known for our pristine beaches, laid back lifestyle and incredible

variety of nature that includes everything from mountains to rainforests, and we look forward to welcoming visitors on these new Bonza flights,” Frank said.

Bells-and-whistles-style celebrations at the airport saw the Uko Ono Sawtell Ukulele Group welcoming the first arrivals from the Sunshine Coast airport, led by Stephanie Sims, the airline’s Bonza Local Legend for Coffs Harbour.

“It was so great to be able to be a part of Bonza’s inaugural flight into Coffs,” Stephanie told News Of The Area.

“I love that the Sawtell Ukulele Group backed me as the Bonza Local Legend and came out in force to welcome all the passengers flying in from the Sunshine Coast on ‘Bazza’.

“Five of us were out on the tarmac welcoming the passengers as they disembarked while the rest of the group rocked out some

Aussie classics in the arrivals lounge.

“We chose the Aussie rock theme as it really suited the Bonza vibe, starting with the Angels' 'Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again’ and finishing with Angus and Julia Stone’s ‘Big Jet Plane’, of course,” she said, laughing.

“The passengers loved it.

“From the sweet sounds of the ukes on the tarmac, playing ‘My Island Home’, to the rocking beats and amped up ukes inside, we all got the Bonza thumbs up,” she said.

Triple M presenter Michael ‘Moffee’ Moffett spent Thursday morning in the Bonza tent at the Coffs Coast Growers Markets.

“Celebrating Bonza coming to our city is just another thing that helps us grow and mature,” radio host Moffee told NOTA.

“I’ve been pumped about Bonza starting up from the first time I spoke to Tim (Jordan) about it a few years ago.

“It’s so exciting to now see those purple planes taking off and landing.

“The vibe on Thursday morning for Bonza Day on Triple M was electric, so many listeners telling us about the friends and family that they plan to visit and have coming to visit the Coffs Coast to show it off.

“And to have the boss of Bonza, Tim Jordan, live in our community creating these opportunities, makes it that little bit more special… you could say that the idea of Bonza was born on the Coffs Coast,” he said.

q Coffs welcomes Bonza’s first flight into the city airport with a pop-up gig from the Sawtell Ukulele Group.

q There had to be a cake to celebrate: Natalia Cowley, General Manager, City Of Coffs Harbour, Frank Mondello, General Manager, Coffs Harbour Airport, Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza and Steve Grant, General Manager Infrastructure and Planning, Sunshine Coast Airport.

q Moffee in the Growers Markets, giving Bonza a shout out on Thursday morning, 20 April.

q At Coffs Coast Growers Markets on Thursday, Moffee makes a bit of a Bonza about the airline’s first landing at Coffs Harbour Airport.

q Frank Mondello, General Manager at Coffs Harbour Airport, Simone and Tim Jordan from Bonza, Kylie Ezzy, Sunshine Coast Airport/ Coffs Harbour Airport and Natalia Cowley, General Manager, City Of Coffs Harbour.

Anti-racism campaigner completes 2048 km journey

By Andrea FERRARI

ANTI-RACISM campaigner Peter Elzer has completed a 2048 kilometre walking journey from Melbourne to Seventeen Seventy in Queensland.

Crossing the finish line on Monday 24 April, Peter is now looking forward to returning home to Coffs Harbour to start work on creating a documentary of his ‘Stamp Out Racism’ journey.

“I’m really interested in the visual and technical components of putting different media together, audio and visual, to make a

doco.”

He’s quick to say, it will be his own “amateur home-made doco”, but he has reams of footage and “using the amazing technology that’s available today”, he’s keen to get started with the creative process of a permanent record of his unique journey.

With the 101-day walk completed precisely on time, Peter is reflecting on how the ‘Racism Not Welcome’ message blossomed as he gathered momentum having left Melbourne on 23 December 2022.

“I’m satisfied with what I achieved; I didn’t have huge expectations but then it started

FESTIVAL ON NOW

to blossom and I began to connect with a lot more people, challenging many to face their own prejudices along the way,” Peter told News Of The Area.

“But as Craig Foster (Australian retired soccer player, human rights activist and sports analyst) says, ‘when we have sparks they form debate’.”

As much as the time on the road demanded physical strength, the mental pressures manifested as his “mind playing tricks” on him “during the long, hot boring bits”.

Phone calls and texts from friends, followers and the media, along with messages and debates on his Facebook page kept him going and brought him back on track through challenging times.

For the final stage, Peter was joined by his friend Susan and daughter Mieke and her partner Finn, walking from Agnes Water into Seventeen Seventy to be greeted by cheers and beers.

Winding down at home in Coffs Harbour from Wednesday, Peter is looking forward to treating himself to a trip to Brisbane for Rugby League’s three-day Magic Round bonanza.

“It’s a unique Australian thing; all nationalities attend, and all get on with each other, it’s a real carnival atmosphere.”

To keep in touch with Peter Elzer’s Racism Not Welcome campaign, follow his Stamp Out Racism Facebook page.

CHANGE OF OPENING HOURS Customer Service Centre

Due to the growing popularity of our online services and a subsequent reduction in customers visiting our Customer Service Centre in person - we are changing our front counter opening hours to 9am to 3:30pm, Monday to Friday commencing Monday, 24 April 2023.

Our customer contact phone service remains unchanged and is available from 8:30am to 4:30pm (Monday to Friday).

q Peter Elzer, the Stamp Out Racism campaigner from Coffs Harbour, completes his 2048km walk from Melbourne to Seventeen Seventy in Queensland.

q Peter Elzer walks into Seventeen Seventy after 101 days on the road, promoting his ‘Racism Not Welcome’ message.

As Dealer Principal /Owner of Skinner Motors –Coffs Harbour Toyota & Coffs Harbour Hyundai for the past 30 Years I have decided after much deliberation to retire from the Auto Industry.

After 54 Years here in Coffs Harbour and Brisbane It has been my life and to this day, I have always accepted the challenges and the success of my business.

I wish to thank everyone associated with this Business, the Franchises, Business Partners, Staff Past & Present and of course my Family to whom collectively we thank you for the joint contribution making this Business the success it is.

Our staff will remain committed to you throughout this transition and of course the Professional service and friendly atmosphere that you have become used to, will remain unchanged.

Service Department – Chris & Team

Parts Department – Taz & Team

Sales Department – Michael & Team

Kay & I have enjoyed our time immensely and thank you all for your continued patronage and friendships formed over the years. Coffs Harbour will remain our home and we look forward to hopefully seeing you at our Award winning Hotel, The Pier!

Best Wishes

WARREN SKINNER

Shearwater Lodge’s $150,000 grant will save lives

By Andrea FERRARI

A NEW type of treatment for prostate cancer patients at Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI) is coming to the region thanks to a grant provided by Coffs Harbour’s Shearwater Lodge.

This is the first facility in regional NSW to have access to the new type of treatment which dramatically reduces treatment time and waiting lists.

Stereotactic radiotherapy is currently only available in some major Australian cities, but Coffs Harbour’s Shearwater Lodge has provided a $150,000 grant that will bring the highly successful technique to the city.

Chairman Dr Paul Moran said the grant would fund a specialised project radiation therapist, who will be responsible for introducing and managing the new treatment process for Coffs Harbour patients.

“This project is particularly exciting because the board has always believed funds raised by the lodge should be used locally to support local residents,” Dr Moran said.

“We are hoping to have the project officer radiotherapy position available in June and will fund the role for twelve months.

“This method of treating prostate cancer has only been available in big cities, not regional centres, because of the cost of getting it

established.

“Shearwater Lodge’s grant will change that, and we expect the result will improve treatment for prostate cancer patients throughout the Mid North Coast,” said Dr Moran.

Shearwater Lodge is a Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour initiative, opening in 2005 with widespread funding support from Woolgoolga Lions Club, many private individuals in the Coffs Harbour community, the Cancer Council, City Of Coffs Harbour and Regional Solutions, plus many private donations, who together raised $1.2 million beginning in 2000.

It provides affordable accommodation at Coffs Harbour Health Campus for cancer, medical and trauma

patients, and their loved ones.

MNCCI Acting Manager Radiotherapy Matthew Hoffmann said the new treatment would be a “huge boost” for the prostate cancer service and its patients.

“This new radiotherapy treatment involves high-dose therapy which means shorter treatment courses… often

only five as opposed to the typical treatment courses of 20 to 41,” Mr Hoffmann said.

“The new daily treatment option initially takes us longer to do due to more patient preparation, imaging and treatment delivery times, but the shorter courses will lead to more patients being treated.”

With the radiation therapist in their role over the next twelve months, MNCCI will be able to complete the implementation phase, training and embed the new workflows into standard practice.

“The Shearwater Lodge grant makes this project possible, and it will have a significant impact on the lives of people requiring radiation therapy in our region,” Mr

Hoffmann said.

“This is a wonderful outcome for our patients and our community.”

Dr Moran said the grant was largely possible due to the foresight of Shearwater Lodge’s original board, which included Rob Mutton, Alan Mulhern and Chairman Neville Hillenberg.

“Neville’s contribution has been immense from the start as the original chairman from 2004 to 2020,” Dr Moran said.

“Through the efficient running of Shearwater Lodge since it opened in 2005, we are in a position where we can realise our initial goal, which is to support local cancer research and other medical activities focused on cancer treatment.”

Shearwater Lodge Board

q Acting Manager Radiotherapy Matthew Hoffmann, Shearwater Lodge Board members and Coffs Harbour Rotarians Robert Mutton and Robert Avery, Lions District Cabinet Secretary Nora Brooks, Shearwater Lodge Board Foundation Chairman and Rotarian Neville Hillenberg, (front) Shearwater Lodge Chairman Dr Paul Moran, District Manager Cancer Services, Innovation and Strategy Emily Saul and Shearwater Board member Barbara Lawson of the Lions Club of Woolgoolga.

q Dr Paul Moran, Chairman of Shearwater Lodge Board.

q Neville Hillenberg, Foundation Chairman of Shearwater Lodge, and Acting Manager Radiotherapy Matthew Hoffman.

q Acting Manager Radiotherapy Matthew Hoffmann, Chairman of Shearwater Lodge Dr Paul Moran and District Manager Cancer Services, Innovation and Strategy Emily Saul at the Coffs Harbour campus of Mid North Coast Cancer Institute.

Paralympian dedicates gold medal to war veteran

By Andrea FERRARI

COFFS Harbour Paralympian

Madeleine McTernan has dedicated a recent gold medal win to Linda Mol, a family friend and war veteran who tragically lost her fight against ovarian cancer earlier this month.

McTernan, 22, who competed for Australia at the Tokyo Paralympics, was competing at the 2023 Australian Swimming Championships (April 7-10) when Linda passed.

Linda Mol proudly served in the Australian Army for 35 years, serving her country on several overseas deployments and rising to the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1.

Sadly, Linda was struck down with ovarian cancer in December 2019 and lost her fight on April 7.

She has left behind husband Alex, who proudly served 42 years in the Army, and her three sons Aaron, Aidan and Blaine, who also proudly served in the Army, two of them serving on several overseas

deployments, collectively giving 109 years’ service to Australia.

Linda has also left behind her beautiful daughter Sarah.

After reading a Facebook post by the Mol family, Maddie, who has an intellectual disability and competes in the S14 category, was so inspired by Linda’s achievements and dedication to our country, she felt she had to reach out and honour Linda’s service and her passing.

“I read a story on my Dad’s Facebook page about Linda, who was admitted to the palliative care ward at QEH in Adelaide due to her battle with Ovarian and Peritoneal Cancer,” Maddie said.

“When Dad told me he served in the Army with Alex in 6 RAR in the 1980s, and Linda had served 35 years in the Army, I was really sad and cried.

“Now she was fighting for her life in hospital.

“Then, four days later when I came home from training, Dad told me Linda

down in tears.”

Maddie decided then and there she would dedicate her 200m Freestyle race at the 2023 Australian Swimming Championships in honour of Linda as well as donate whatever medal she was

lucky enough to win to the Mol family as a mark of respect for their service to our nation.

In the Women’s 200m Freestyle Multiclass final, McTernan qualified second fastest in the morning heats,

where her fellow Australian teammate Ruby Storm broke the Australian record to qualify fastest in lane four with a time of 2:12.95.

In the final the race changed place several times between McTernan and Storm, before McTernan powered away on the final lap to stop the clock at 2:13.01 and claim the gold medal for the Mol family.

Storm finished second with the silver medal in a time of 2:14.85 and third place and bronze medal went to Maddie’s Australian teammate Jade Lucy in a time

“It was a surreal moment for me,” Maddie said after the race, “I just wanted to swim extra fast for Linda because I knew that it would mean so much if I could win for her.

“Wow, I’d achieved my goal for Linda and her family.

“I am so glad to dedicate that race to her and now I will send my medal to the Mol family in South

Australia.”

Maddie’s father Paul McTernan said, “I am not a religious person by nature, however, something happened on the last lap for Maddie to win this race, and to win it, Maddie had to do a PB time for Linda and her family in South Australia.

“After the race I got so emotional, I even cried on the phone when I notified Alex that Maddie had won the race in honour of Linda and his family.”

Over the three days of the championships Maddie won two gold medals and one bronze with a PB in the 200m Freestyle.

In the all-important women’s 100m Freestyle event, she came third overall in the final, and first in the women’s S14 class in the A final; winning gold in the women’s Multiclass 200m Freestyle final and bronze in the women’s 100m Backstroke final.

q Linda Mol on 16 January 2023, eleven weeks before she passed away.

q Sgt Linda Mol, aged 37, on first deployment to East Timor in 2001.

q Maddie donated her gold medal from winning the 200m Freestyle race at the 2023 Australian Swimming Championships to the Mol family in honour of Linda.

q Maddie’s second win at the championships, winning the 50m Backstroke gold medal.

The BananaFest extravaganza is here

By Andrea FERRARI

BANANAFEST is here.

A big family event of live music, big name bands, entertainment for all and great fun events for the kids, BananaFest at The Big Banana on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 May has come together as a ‘not-to-be-missed’ launch spectacular that’s projected to be an iconic annual event.

“For ten years now, we have been working towards making this event possible, and in a week’s time, it will become reality,” said Michael Lockman, CEO, The Big Banana.

“Such an amazing line-up

of artists, entertainers, food vendors and more.

“Tickets to each show are strictly limited, so grab yours now, before your show is sold out.

“I hope to see you there,” he said.

The Big Banana Fun Park and event managers, Another Tasty Event, are naturally going bananas with all the bands booked, the array of kids’ entertainment, the festival vendors and side shows.

“Ticket holders to BananaFest will enjoy a family friendly festival, featuring great local food with a ‘banana’ twist, various local breweries,

plus an exciting line-up of amazing artists including Alex Lloyd, Avalanche City, Josh Pyke, Kate Miller-Heidke, Katie Noonan, Skunkhour, The Beautiful Girls, The Soul Movers, Tim Freedman and many more,” said Carol Mower from Another Tasty Event.

“For our young ticket holders and young at heart, you have not been forgotten.

“You will enjoy a special live interactive experience by your favourite ABC Kids shows, Bluey, Kangaroo Beach

plus a Wiggles Friends Dance Party, roving street performers, Old MacDonalds Farm petting zoo, face painting and much more.”

And to top it off, every ticket holder will receive

unlimited access to The Big Banana Fun Park’s Water Park, 4D Ride Simulator, Indoor Giant Slides, Toboggan, Mini Golf, Laser Tag, Demolition Derby and the World of Banana’s Theatre and Tour.

For tickets or general information about BananaFest head to www. bananafest.com.au.

Through BananaFest the Coffs Coast economy is expected to enjoy a stimulus boost with an influx of visitors set to spend up in local shops, cafes and businesses.

BananFest has been made possible through a $150,000 grant through the NSW Government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund (REAF).

At the launch

announcement last year

Member for Coffs Harbour

Gurmesh Singh said the funding would help ensure

BananaFest becomes a signature event to be proud of.

At that launch Carol Mower spoke of the iconic tourism status of The Big Banana.

“So we will be pulling from that to bring something for the entire family.

“There will be a major focus on entertainment for children, young and old… something that is lacking here on the coast.

“Combine that with a carnival theme, roaming performers, live music, a dessert alley and all things bananas, plus what the venue already offers with their amazing water park, ice skating, laser tag…we are confident BananaFest will tick all the right boxes.”

q BananaFest ticket holders gain unlimited access to The Big Banana Fun Park’s Water Park.

q Alex Lloyd.

q The Beautiful Girls play BananaFest.

q Watch out for SkunkHour performing at BananaFest.

q Sacred Circus is a boutique circus troupe who will be creating magic with their clever niche acts.

q Stilt walking green fairies from Sacred Circus promise an uplifting experience.

q Katie Noonan is coming to town. Don’t miss the chance to hear her vocal mastery in concert at BananaFest.

Alice Campion talks author collaborations

By Andrea FERRARI

ALICE Campion will guest speak at writers talks at Bellingen and Dorrigo libraries next week.

‘Alice’ is a bit of a crowd in herself, being five authors who write collaboratively under the one name in a manner they believe is an Australian first.

It’s a uniquely close collaboration between the five writers - Jane Richards, Jenny Croker, Madeline Oliver, Denise Tart and Jane St Vincent Welch - which sees the group discussing intimate details about their characters, and fine nuances about how the protagonist would react; specifics about the whys and particulars of the plot that only they would know the answer to.

Jane St Vincent Welch, the Alice Campion who lives in Bellingen, shared more with News Of The Area.

“It all started with ‘wouldn’t it be fun to…’.

“All keen, we originally thought we’d write a Mills and Boon novel, but we found we had a really good story,” she said.

Pressing on with the

penning plan they developed a creative style that found them meeting regularly and discussing collaboratively to find the most fitting solution to any blocks or different ideas, always agreeing at that session and moving on to the next.

“Differences were seen to be instructive, not negative.”

As avid book club members, the group was very

well read but burgeoning as authors so the learning curve was steep and alluring as they made headway, gaining confidence as they moved forwards.

Their first novel is called 'The Painted Sky', a captivating rural novel brimming with romance, mystery and suspense.

The second book with four of the authors is called 'The Shifting Light', a riveting book of family intrigue, love and excitement.

Both books are published by Penguin Random House.

“The collective writing idea has fascinated everyone in the many interviews and festivals, workshops and events at which we have spoken,” she said.

‘Alice’ has given talks about this roller-coaster ride and run sessions on collaborative writing at Sydney Writers Festival, Writers Victoria, NSW Writers Centre and the Japan Writers Conference.

“We are passionate about

spreading the news about the benefits of writing together and how it can be done,” said Jane.

“As evangelists for group fiction writing, we would like to share our process and experiences; the ups and downs, successes and failures and hilarious moments.”

Authors of ‘The Shifting Light’, Denise Tart, Jane St Vincent Welch, Jane Richards and Jenny Croker, will all be at the local library talks.

Bellingen Shire Librarian Rowena Sierant said, “This

event will fascinate readers, our book clubs and all the writers out there in our community.”

Alice Campion will present at Bellingen Library on Monday 1 May at 5pm and Dorrigo Library on Wednesday 3 May at 1pm. These events are free, and bookings are encouraged. You can book your place online at www.crl.nsw.gov. au or by calling your local library.

Bellingen: 66551744 or Dorrigo: 66572234.

q Alice Campion is the collective author name of writers Denise Tart, Jane St Vincent Welch, Jane Richards and Jenny Croker, who will all be at the local library talks. Not pictured is Madeline Oliver.

q The Alice's celebrate the first draft of 'The Painted Sky'. Jane Richards, Jenny Croker, Madeline Oliver, Denise Tart and Jane St Vincent Welch.

Ulong Health Hub to add second consultation room

By Andrea FERRARI

TWO years up-and-running, the Ulong Health Hub is now on the brink of another major milestone - to build a second consultation room.

The driving force behind this next momentous step is Carol Cleary, the proprietor of Ulong General Store and Café and Chair of the Ulong Community Hall.

Carol hosted a celebration for the official second anniversary of establishing the health service and shared the plans for extending the facilities.

The Health Hub has proven to be a huge benefit to the Eastern Dorrigo region’s community, minimising the need for travel to access services, and providing early intervention for potentially serious health issues for some of their patients.

The current service includes monthly GP consultations with Dr Ruthnam from Northside Clinic in Coffs Harbour, who travels to Ulong once a month providing health checks and support to the residents.

The second consultation room will mean the nurses will be able to provide a range of treatments, none of which are currently

available locally to the region’s residents.

Representing City of Coffs Harbour (CoCH), Councillor Scott Wolgamot told the gathered residents he’d checked in with CoCH’s planning department and was told everything was in order with the DA for the second room and no issues were expected.

It is estimated the DA will be approved within two months.

The locals responded with cheers and clapping.

“The Health Hub journey has been a classic one of a small community that really cares about its residents being the driving force behind the creation of a service that many would have thought impossible when it began,” he said.

A critical link in the health service chain for the rural community is the support of TAFE.

Lisa Taffe, TAFE Head Teacher across health, aged care and nursing, has developed a working relationship with Carol and the Ulong Community Hall’s Committee, bringing student nurses up to Ulong every month to provide basic health checks as well as more advanced clinical offerings.

“With the second room and the student nurses in attendance we will be able to provide

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

STORYLAND 20 MAY 2023

The City of Coffs Harbour hereby advises that pursuant to Section 115 of the Roads Act, 1993 and in accordance with the authority delegated to it by Transport for NSW, it proposes to allow the temporary road closure of:

• Ocean Parade between Fitzgerald St and Orlando St Coffs Harbour between 12:30pm to 11.00pm.

Telephone enquiries should be directed to Chris Netherway on 6648 4000.

day procedures such as iron infusions, IVF injections, immunisation, ECGs, pap smears etc,” Lisa told News Of The Area.

Student nurses range from school kids to mature students, all furthering their education and experience of nursing in a real-life rural community.

“It’s a win-win; for our students it ticks so many boxes in terms of workplace hours as well as the exposure with communication and diversity and clinical skill application in a primary health care setting,” said Lisa.

“From strokes to premmie babies to diagnosing diabetes, it’s important experience for the student nurses.”

Sitting tight for the DA approval, Carol told the gathering that everything was in place to go as soon as they got the green light.

“The extension and fit-out is being funded by Healthy North Coast, NSW Department of Health, with funding arranged by Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, local community member donations and in-kind support from local tradespeople, suppliers and City of Coffs Harbour.”

Gumbaynggirr Elder Estelle Wade, who lives in Lowanna, gave the Welcome to Country.

Estelle has worked at Coffs Health Campus for 38 years and understands not only the challenges of sickness and health needs living rurally, but the stresses of getting into Coffs Harbour from Ulong when you are unwell.

“We are all so grateful to have this Health Hub and the opportunity to build on it, thanks to the community’s hard work and commitment,” she said.

Unveiled at the celebration was an artwork created through the Ulong/Lowanna community weaving project held late last year led by Jasmine Avery; who moved to Ulong in 2021 and feels a deep connection to the supportive community.

“This unveiling ties in with the Health Hub anniversary as it was born out of funding by the Bushfire Recovery Funding, via Arts Mid North Coast Arts Mid Coast, which supports projects that use art in recovery after such things as floods, bushfire and Covid,” said Jasmine.

The weaving workshops were held at the hall and the school with 55 people in attendance.

“We came together and connected as a community to remember that’s where our strengths lie.

“We named the project Ties That Bind and the idea was that I would join all the pieces together in a community artwork that would hang here in the Community Hall,” she said.

In closing Carol said, “Today is a celebration of the Health Hub happening; it is a wonderful opportunity for this community and thank you to all the key players.”

q Dr Ruthnam from Northside Clinic, Carol Cleary of Ulong General Store & Café and Chair of the Community Hall, Katie Sibio from the Ulong Community Hall committee, Lisa Taffe from TAFE, Cr Scott Wolgamot from City of Coffs Harbour Council and Monika Wheeler from Healthy North Coast.

q Lowanna resident Estelle Wade, the Gumbaynggirr Elder who gave the Welcome to Country at the celebrations.

q Kim Benson, Health Hub Practice Manager from Northside Clinic, Rod Young from Dorrigo, who will be building the second treatment room at the Health Hub, and Carol Cleary.

q Arts Mid North Coast member Jasmine Avery, the Ulong Community Hall committee member who ran the community weaving project, with the finished artwork, Ties That Bind

q Ulong First Responders Jayne Moran and Shelley Kleinhaus with Mia and Ben Iggulden from Planet Lighting in Bellingen, who have donated some of the high-tech lighting required at the Health Hub.

Education journey continues for Mando Ido

By Andrea FERRARI

HAVING escaped war-torn Iraq, Mando Ido has credited TAFE NSW for helping him find a new life in Coffs Harbour and his acceptance into university.

In 2014, Mando and his family fled Iraq and took refuge in Turkey.

Five years later, the Ido family migrated to Australia in search of greater opportunities for Mando and his siblings.

With dreams of attending University to study medicine, Mando says his mental health took a toll when he first arrived in Coffs Harbour at nineteen years old, as his education had never progressed past his year eleven studies in Turkey.

“I thought the only way to get into university was through high school because they don’t have other pathways in Turkey or Iraq,” said Mando.

“But I met with an immigration caseworker when I first arrived in Australia, and they recommended that I go to TAFE NSW to learn English and complete my high school studies.”

Soon after, Mando completed three English Language qualifications and a Community Pharmacy course at TAFE NSW Coffs

Harbour, which helped him gain employment at a local pharmacy, the Good Price Pharmacy at the Bailey Centre in Coffs.

He continued studying for a Certificate III in Career Preparation, a one-year HSC equivalent that provides students with a Tertiary Entrance Score.

Achieving a score of 89,

Mando applied to several universities and was delighted to be accepted into the University of Sydney to study a Bachelor of Science (Anatomy and Physiology).

Mando says he couldn’t have done it without the support and advice he received from his TAFE NSW teachers.

“When you come to a

new country, you feel blind in some ways.

“You rely on other people to guide you, but I was very lucky to have supportive teachers who talked to universities with me and helped me choose the courses I needed to gain entry.

“I have studied in different countries and languages but have never seen teachers as committed and supportive as my TAFE teachers.

“They supported me in my studies, in achieving my goals and linked me to a student counsellor when they

Wyz Wimmin blazing trails with original production

FOR the Wyz Wimmin & Friends Theatre Company, bringing a wholly original production to the stage is a complex undertaking.

Everything relies on the playwrights (well, almost everything).

The process begins with the submission of scripts and the gathering together of actors and directors.

Scripts are read ‘cold’,

which means the actor has no idea what he/she is about to perform.

Playwrights hang on every word, scribbling on their copy of a script as the actor brings it to life.

This is when ‘clunkiness’ becomes apparent, when a poor choice of words or ambiguous sentences reveal themselves.

Scripts with potential are

immediately obvious, as are the ones that probably won’t make the grade.

Over the next few weeks, actors, directors and playwrights set about refining the material and excitement rises as a complete production starts to take shape.

Parts are cast, directors appointed, and rehearsals begin.

Carrolline Rhodes of

Food should be tasty and nourishing and at Meals on Wheels we believe in the power of great food – delivered with a smile - to change lives. We support the National Meal Guidelines which are specifically designed to meet the nutrient needs of over 65’s

At Coffs Meals on Wheels we have a variety of over 80 meals to choose from which can be delivered by our friendly volunteers or picked up from our office.

the Wyz Wimmin & Friends Theatre Company told News Of The Area, “Sometimes life gets in the way of a smooth transition from casting to stage and when that happens there is a fast rethink of material and casting.

“The Company is committed to making each new production at least as good as the last.

“We ask ourselves ‘will the

realised my struggles.

“Now that I am in university, I hope to become a psychiatrist so that I can help people that face similar struggles with education roadblocks,” said Mando.

TAFE NSW Director of Career Pathways, Aboriginal Languages and Employability Skills, Dianne Whittaker said TAFE NSW teachers and career counsellors can help migrants, refugees, and those who didn’t finish high school realise alternate pathways to achieve their goals.

"We recognise the unique

audience love this?’.”

While recasting or deleting a script that can no longer be brought to the stage is difficult, Carrolline said there is only one guiding principle: a production the Company is proud to stage.

“And so here we are with opening night almost upon us and in last rehearsals for ‘Love Bites’, a production based on the theme love, marriage, and family, and we are sure our audiences will love it.

“Our previous production (‘Yours Sincerely’) was limited to three performances, but our newest production ‘Love Bites’ has six performances

challenges faced by refugee students, just like Mando.

“It’s not just completing coursework but understanding new systems and assimilating into a new environment, often without the support of family or friends.

“Mando’s success story is a testament to the dedication and passion of himself and our TAFE NSW teachers," said Dianne.

With his university studies now underway, Mando says he’s glad his siblings have access to education and opportunity in Australia.

He’ll be home to Coffs to see them at uni mid-year break.

He comes from a large immediate family and has relatives in the area too.

He takes on the responsibility as an interpreter to ensure his family members can attend health appointments, book mechanics, and go grocery shopping.

Amongst his interests and hobbies are reading nonfiction which helps him learn English faster.

He loves visiting Coffs library.

He is also a coffee lover and is looking forward to being back at his favourite café in Coffs; shout out to the Happy Frog.

over a wide range of venues and we open at Coffs Harbour’s Botanic Gardens on 5 May, closing at Bowraville Theatre on 14 May.

“With more options to choose from, it is likely there will be tickets available at the door, but to be sure of a seat, purchase your tickets beforehand from Humanitix. com (all venues, dates and times are listed there).

“If you would like to join our company, or if you would like more information about ‘Love Bites’ please email your enquiry to carrollinerhodes@ gmail.com.”

We would like to introduce our newest member of our team our Chef, Joy Cassells. We are so happy to welcome her aboard and so far, she has delighted us with her wonderful comfort food, fresh salads, pastas and yummy desserts. We look forward to seeing what other creations she comes coming winter months.

q TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour student Mando Ido on campus at his new education ‘home’, The University of Sydney.

q Mando Ido achieved his university dreams after studying with TAFE NSW in Coffs.

Bellinger Valley VIEW Club closes after almost four decades

By Andrea FERRARI BELLINGER

Valley VIEW

Club closed its doors for the last time on April 17, 2023, at its final luncheon after 38 years of charitable works and companionship.

“It is with very great sadness that we advise we are closing,” Megan Octigan, Secretary, Bellingen VIEW Club, told News Of The Area.

“Unfortunately, in the last few years we have been unable to attract new members or to form a full committee to continue.”

Voice, Interests and Education of Women

(VIEW) is a national volunteer organisation, providing the opportunity for women from all walks of life to meet regularly, establish lasting friendships and help disadvantaged Australian children through supporting the work of children’s charity, The Smith Family.

“Over the 38 years all the members enjoyed meeting monthly to raise money for The Smith Family, enjoying one another’s company and going on social outings together,” said Megan.

“Over the years we have greatly enjoyed serving the local community with

street stalls, providing book donations to local schools, giving individual help to local students, wrapping Christmas gifts to raise money for The Smith Family and, through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, sponsoring many disadvantaged students.

“It's been quite an outlet and we will miss the companionship we developed in our little community in Bellingen; we have enjoyed one another’s company.

“We are very sorry that we cannot continue all the good work we have done,” she said.

Bellinger Valley VIEW committee sends its thanks to all members who supported their local VIEW Club “so well and so loyally over the years”.

“Thank you too to VIEW Clubs Australia and VIEW Clubs in our local area, and the Bellingen Golf Club where we had our meetings.

“We are grateful to the local Bellingen Courier which printed many reports and our wonderful guest speakers and artists

without whose support we would not have been able to thrive so happily and successfully for 38 years,” said Megan.

Driven by the mission of creating social change in Australian communities, VIEW empowers women to have their voices on issues of importance for the future wellbeing of Australian society.

For more information on VIEW clubs visit www. view.org.au.

q The last meeting of Bellinger Valley VIEW Club on April 17 2023 saw the committee officially close the club. Amongst the group is President Gina Troy (holding the bell), Advisor Cynthia Guyenette and past National Councillor Wendy Turner.

q Bellinger Valley VIEW Club President Gina Troy and Wendy Turner, past National Vice President of VIEW Clubs Australia, cutting the cake at the club’s 35th birthday celebration.

q Gina Troy, President, Bellinger Valley VIEW club, with Lynne Newman who won a championship award at the Bellingen Show.

Promising results from electric bus trial

By Andrea FERRARI

A THUMBS-UP has been given to Busways’ threemonth test of a European model Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) in Coffs Harbour.

Coffs was chosen as a suitable trial ground putting the bus to the test in regional conditions.

The Volvo BZL Electric model featuring a bus body made in Macksville by Express Coach Builders has carried close to 5000 passengers in and around Coffs Harbour since January on its first public operation in NSW.

Busways driver Chris Charlton was one of the drivers who drove the electric bus around Coffs over the past three months.

“It was really great to have a nice quiet bus,” Chris told News Of The Area.

“Many passengers were amazed at how quiet it was.

“From a driver’s

perspective, the bus had a lot of power which was great to see,” he said.

He also noted many customers liked the stunning Indigenous artwork wrap.

Busways ZEB and Innovations Manager Joe Kotevich concurred, saying the Volvo delighted drivers and public with its quiet and smooth ride and strong performance in regional conditions.

“What was most surprising was how well the vehicle performed in a regional environment,” he said.

“We had initial concerns that the high summer temperatures and varied quality of roads might be problematic for the electric bus, however the Volvo took everything in its stride, and we were able to use it like any other bus during the trial.”

Busways Chief Operating Officer Chris Wolf said the

test generated valuable data and gave vital teachings to Busways’ operational, driver and maintenance staff to help the company finetune its blueprint for future electric bus deployments.

“The data will be shared with Transport for NSW as part of collaborative effort to develop the road map for rural and regional ZEB deployments - infrastructure

to support ZEB deployment will be key,” he said.

“Busways ran the Volvo ZEB on a variety of routes and school services and provided more than 20 Busways drivers with important electric bus education.

“The bus travelled more than 7500 kilometres on different terrain, often in very hot conditions.

“Even when charged from the existing grid, this represents a saving of four and a half tonnes of carbon emissions, with green power

options likely to increase this saving.

“Close to 60 percent of riders surveyed said they had never ridden an electric bus before.

“One rider told Busways her five-year-old son loved riding in the electric bus and ‘informing everyone how they work and are better for the environment’.”

Testing looks at components such as suspension, doors, driveline, air conditioning, manufacturer support and additional training needed for drivers or maintenance teams.

General Manager of Volvo Bus Australia, Mitch Peden said Volvo was pleased to be able to showcase to Busways and the Coffs Harbour community how exceptional the Volvo BZL Electric is.

“It’s wonderful for long term business partners like Busways to experience first-hand the drivability, serviceability and genuine reliability of the Volvo BZL Electric and we’re pleased to contribute to the local economy by working with Macksville based Express Coach Builders on this model,” he said.

Vintage Car Club rebrands

By Andrew VIVIAN

PERCEPTION is everything,

so, in its 50th year, the Coffs Harbour Veteran and Vintage Car Club is changing its name to better reflect the growing

enthusiasm for older cars.

The club was formed with five members in July 1974 and members own vehicles such as a 100 year old Schneider, a 1911 Hupmobile and several other veteran and

early vintage vehicles.

Current members feel that ‘Veteran and Vintage’ conjures up a vision of an old rag top car with wooden spoked wheels and running boards, but most current

members also have classic cars, as well as an older vehicle.

‘Classic’ denotes cars from the 1930s onwards which must be more than 30 years old, such as a 1978 Toyota Crown, a 1971 Wolseley Police Car, a 1962 black London Cab, WW2 military vehicles and a couple of early Toyota Land Cruisers owned by members.

So, to better reflect the club, and cater for a wider range of car enthusiasts, the name has been changed to the Coffs Harbour Veteran, Vintage and Classic Car Club Inc.

Anyone with a car in nonmodified condition 30 years or older can now consider being a member.

Club membership is open to anyone with an interest in

older vehicles, particularly those who have an older car that they want to keep for nostalgic reasons and think that a supportive social environment is appealing.

The membership, $47 a year, including third party insurance, permits 60 days of driving a year in addition to participation in club excursions and events.

Car registration inspection is provided by club members free of charge for vehicles built before 31 December 1980.

Club members give their time and effort helping on other’s cars.

The club holds a monthly meeting with regular guest speakers, followed by tea, coffee, cake and chats with like minded people.

Other events include driving cars for a morning coffee once a month to various venues around the

area, Sunday lunch each month we go for lunch and a monthly Saturday afternoon tea.

Family membership is available and partners and family members take part in outings and coffee mornings.

The club‘s community involvement includes the Sawtell New Year Fun Day over many years, carrying veterans on Anzac Day Marches and participation in various Agricultural Shows and the Glenreagh Wood Fair.

Gerry De Gabriele, the club’s Event Organiser said, “We donate excess funds to community groups such as the Waratah Respite Centre and local Rural Fire Brigades.” Members meet on the first Thursday of the month at the Boambee Hall at 7 pm. Contact the club at chvvcc@gmail.com or chvvcc1gm@outlook.com.

q Busways’ three-month test of a European model Zero Emissions Bus (ZEB) in Coffs Harbour provides promising results.

q As well as vintage and veteran cars, the club now includes classic cars 30 years or older. Photo: Gerald De Gabrielle.

Rotary Golf Day a big hit

By Andrea FERRARI

THE combined Rotary Clubs of Coffs City and Daybreak have run their annual Charity Golf Day at the Coffs Harbour Golf Club.

“The well supported afternoon was a huge success for both clubs with Mike Blewitt Ford as naming right sponsor helping so much with our cause, and presenting the prizes,” Coffs City Rotary Club executive Bob Carle told News Of The Area.

Teeing off at 12-noon on Friday afternoon, Bob said golfers enjoyed a pictureperfect course which was “magnificent for a game of golf”.

With the support of many sponsors, the team prizes went through to the eighth

placed team.

The Golf Day was won by the Toormina Hotel team, who were also a generous sponsor.

“They played a great game, thanks for your support boys,” Bob said.

The Ladies competition was won by the Foxettes, with the division sponsored by Ross Paul Allied Funerals.

“Coffs local and international speaker and author, Michael Crossland, once again did a great job and auctioned off magnificent prizes from Coffs Harbour Fish Co-op, Watsons Caravans, Ash Beaton’s North Coast V-twin, Repco, Coffs Harbour Cartoon Gallery and Sawtell’s Split Café,” Bob said.

In the Tear Drop Banner competition Shaun Marshall won first place, winning the

prize of accommodation at Opal Cove.

This little extra contest is where a tear drop banner is placed in the middle of a fairway, as a target to place your ball nearest to.

Organisers from both

Rotary clubs send out a huge thank you to the amazing sponsors for their generosity.

“On the day our charities benefited with just short of $10,000,” said Bob.

“Funds will be divided between the two club’s

chosen charities/not-for-

profits.

Coffs City Club is supporting the Waratah Respite Centre as their main recipient and Coffs Daybreak is supporting the Chiedza Child Care Centre as their main recipient.

The Charity Day has become a popular Friday

afternoon content each year.

“We already have Friday 22 March booked for next year, 2024, so get it in your diary and tell your friends.

“Both Rotary Clubs thank Coffs Harbour Golf Club for its support and for the generosity of the players who attended the day,” closed Bob.

q Ken Trevski, Peter Jackson, Mike Blewitt and Peter Linsay happy with their performance on the Rotary Golf Day.

q Peter Jackson, winner of Nearest the Pin on the 12th hole.

q The Observatory Apartments team.

q Rotary Golf Day competitors Chris Martin, Peter Martin, Josh Laugs, Marty Hunt and Mike Blewitt.

q The winning ladies team, the Foxettes, with Mike Blewitt (centre). L-R Elaine Phillips, Sue Morgan, Karren Webster and Julie Mitchell.

City Orchestra presents Coronation Concert

THE Coffs Harbour City Orchestra will present a Coronation Concert on 7 May in Nambucca Heads, just in time to recognise a new King of the Commonwealth.

The orchestra will be playing a variety of musical items traditionally played at the British Proms, with some delightful additions from around the world to provide

the royal vibe.

“Patrons are invited to dress up with tiaras and crowns and stay after the concert for a lovely afternoon tea with scones, jam and

cream,” said Catherine McIntyre, Coffs Harbour City Orchestra.

The orchestra, with members aged twelve to 87, will also be performing this

concert at the Marion Grove retirement village as a gesture of good will to entertain the residents.

The Coronation Concert is at 2pm on Sunday 7 May at the

Theo de Groot celebrates 100th birthday

By Andrea FERRARI

THEODORUS de Groot celebrated his landmark 100th birthday this week, in the process becoming one of the first to get a letter of congratulations from the new King.

Theo was born in the Netherlands on April 26, 1923, where he lived until after World War II.

If the surname’s ringing a bell, his grandson is Matt de Groot , who started his career in radio at 104.1 CHY FM while in high school at John Paul College, Coffs Harbour and is now part of the Fitzy and Wippa breakfast team on 98.9 NOVA in Sydney.

Theo de Groot and his wife of 70 years, Joan, migrated to Australia in 1952, a journey that took seven flights and six days.

The pair called Sydney home before spending the past three decades in Port Macquarie and now Toormina.

As part of his birthday festivities, Theo became one of the first to be presented with the letter of congratulations by King Charles and Camilla.

He also received letters from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the GovernorGeneral David Hurley, Federal MP Pat Conaghan and State MP Gurmesh Singh.

Mr de Groot said getting a letter from the soon-to-becrowned King and Queen was

“very special”.

Theo was a thirdgeneration bootmaker and became highly regarded for his top-quality bespoke boots, crafting pairs for the likes of high-court judges,

even television magnate Kerry Packer.

At 97, Theo had a heart valve replacement through keyhole surgery.

“Apparently (he is) the oldest person that this

Triple M Rocks the Coffs Coast Footy

By Andrea FERRARI

FOOTY talk has a new home through a partnership between Triple M Coffs Coast, Group 2 Rugby League and AFL North Coast, hosted by the radio station’s ‘Moffee in the Morning’ - Michael Moffatt.

The Coffs Coast Rugby League and AFL collaboration will help keep locals up to date with games and scores through the new show, Triple M Rocks the Footy.

Each Friday during the 2023 season, Triple M’s Moffee in the Morning will get the lowdown from

games.

Then on Monday mornings just after 6:30am and 8:30am, Triple M will give listeners a full wrap of the weekend scores.

Moffee told News Of The Area, “I love Rugby League, and we have some great talent in the Group 2 competition, so it’s great to be able to highlight that every week in the show.

“Gilko and Matt Crawley both know their stuff when it comes to the local AFL and Rugby League comps, so the

more we can shine a light on it, the better it will be for our region.”

Triple M General Manager Luke Campbell said, “Triple M on the Coffs Coast lives and breathes footy, so it makes sense for both Rugby League and AFL locally to be at home on Triple M’s number one show.”

“Triple M and LiSTNR also has all the live NRL and AFL action covered with our call teams.

“On weekends, our NRL coverage on Triple M starts from 12pm every Saturday and Sunday, with some of the game’s biggest names - Gorden Tallis, Sterlo, Paul

procedure has been done on,” grandson Matt de Groot told News Of The Area.

“He still moves around well with only the help of a walking stick.”

Talking about longevity running in the family, Theo said he has benefitted from good genetics and living in the Australian climate.

“My father and mother lived well into their 80s, and being the youngest and only son, I knew I had to live up to that.”

His advice for living fit and well into a fine centenarian's age is, “Make sure you are always busy and keep your mind busy.

“Don’t let the days go by without doing something which you remember, so your brain is active all the time.”

Until recent years Theo remained an eager fisherman, golfer, and wood-turner.

Nambucca Heads Community Arts Centre on Ridge Street. Tickets are $25, with concession tickets $20 and children free and are available from https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing?eid=1045085& or www.coffsorchestra.org.au.

“Make sure you don’t live a dull life.

“Do things you love to do.”

The couple have three children, nine grandkids and nine great grandkids, all who were all in Sawtell to celebrate Theo’s milestone on the weekend of 22 and 23

April. But Theo most notably credits his wife, Joan, for being able to reach the milestone.

“It is 90 percent of the battle.

“You have a good wife, you have a good life,” he said.

q Family and friends gathered in Sawtell to celebrate Theodorus de Groot’s 100th birthday on 23 April.

q The birthday boy celebrating his centenary.

q Theo and Joan de Groot migrated to Australia in 1952.

q The King and Queen’s birthday card to Theo de Groot.

Warren ‘Gilko’ Gilkinson at Group 2 Rugby League and Matt Crawley from AFL North Coast on the weekend’s

Kent, Ryan Girdler and Maroon - covering the big headlines and lead-up to the

afternoon footy. “And the great thing for our community is that with

our free LiSTNR App, they can keep up to date with their footy anytime, anywhere.”

q Triple M Rocks the Footy, a new slot with scores, updates and match analysis, hosted by the radio station’s ‘Moffee in the Morning’, Michael Moffatt.

Coffs Riding for the Disabled thriving in its new ‘home’

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Coffs Harbour chapter of Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has just completed its first term for 2023, and is looking to increase rider numbers for its next term, beginning on Tuesday 2 May.

Coffs RDA has been active for the past nineteen years and is a charitable organisation that receives no government funding, instead relying on donations and sponsorships.

Horse-riding classes are run by volunteer coaches who undergo stringent training requirements, supported by horse leaders and side-walkers to provide well-controlled, safe riding for clients.

“We aim to emphasise that RDA is all about riding to develop abilities, building self-esteem, confidence, a connection with our beautiful quiet horses, and of course having fun,” Andrea Stafford, a Coffs Harbour RDA volunteer told News Of The Area.

“The ability, sensitivity and power of horses acts to provide extensions to oneself, helping to overcome limitations and to develop physical capabilities.

“One rider who normally

used a wheelchair said that riding horses provided the unique perspective that once in the saddle they could look

“We have recently moved from the Valery Horse Trails site to an alternative property nearby at 804 Valery Rd,

down rather than always having to look up at others.

“Another non-verbal rider was able to greet and thank their horse after a few months with RDA.

“It is these experiences and more that makes riding for those with physical limitations and/or neurodiversity so special,” she said.

Along with wanting to increase client numbers, Coffs RDA is continually seeking new volunteers to join the organisation.

q Coffs Harbour Riding for the Disabled is looking forward to welcoming new riders next term.

Valery, a glorious setting overlooking the ranges.”

These new facilities include a custom-built arena, and ablution block with accessible toilet.

There is an annual membership fee that includes insurance, and a nominal cost per session for clients.

Volunteers and those seeking to ride can email coffsrda@gmail.com or visit the Riding for the Disabled Association Coffs Harbour and Districts Facebook page.

Chrysalis Steiner students’ chai and cake fundraiser

By Andrea FERRARI

CHRYSALIS Steiner School

Class 10 students Abbi and Lara, ably supported by Lara’s mother Andi, hosted a successful fundraiser with a market stall at the monthly Bellingen Markets on Saturday 15 April.

Class 10 students from Thora Valley’s Chrysalis Steiner School rallied to help the girls put on another fundraiser for their Arnhem Land educational trip.

Described as a journey of a lifetime, the Class 10 students are travelling up to the top end of Australia in May, where they will be staying in a remote Indigenous community for around three weeks.

The latest fundraiser comes after a year and a half of lending their many hands to various projects to raise money to pay towards their trip, not only to reduce the costs but also to purchase raw materials for building their community project.

“We had a successful day selling homemade chai and cakes, leatherwork, craftwork

and antique tablecloths at our stall,” Abbi told News Of The Area.

Everything sold was created by students of Class 10 or donated by parents and other members of the community.

“Many customers were attracted to our stall

which allowed us to raise approximately $1,400,” said Abbi.

“It was a long day from 7am to 3pm, but with lots of help we were able to create a system that worked for everyone.

“Without all the help and contributions, it would

not have been such a huge success.

“We had a super time and the ball was knocked straight out of the park, a massive thanks to all,” said Abbi.

There is now a GoFundMe page which gives more information about the students’ Arnhem Land trip. Visit https://gofund.me/ bcc89314.

q Volunteers are needed to help student riders at Riding for the Disabled in Coffs Harbour.

q Homemade chai and cake was a hit for the Chrysalis Steiner School Class 10 fundraiser at Bello Markets.

q Manning their fundraising stall at Bellingen Markets, Abbi, Andi and Lara support their Chrysalis Steiner School Class 10 trip to Arnhem Land.

q Selling handmade crafts to raise money for their Class 10 educational and working trip to Arnhem Land’s Gunbalanya community.

School of Rock

COFFS Harbour Musical Comedy Company (CHMCC) is proud to present School of Rock, an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical based on the movie of the same name.

The all ages, family friendly musical, follows Dewey Finn, a failed wannabe rock star who decides to pose as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school to earn a bit of money to pay his rent.

There, Dewey takes a group of straightlaced, A-grade students and turns them into a formidable rock band that he enters into The Battle of the Bands.

Will Dewey be able to sneak out with the band without the knowledge of the parents

and the School Principal, Rosalie Mullins?

The musical is directed by Fiona Shaw and Rebecca Nicholson with Musical Director Rachel Crismale, Vocal Director Kate Freeman and Choreographer Teo Ross.

Add to this Greg Wilson Jnr on sound, who also created the incredible sets with Rebecca Nicholson, Laura Marsh on lighting and Annamarie Cohen as Production Manager.

With names like this in the production crew, it is bound to be nothing short of extraordinary.

To allow greater accessibility, in a CHMCC first, on Thursday, 25 May, the show

will be Auslan interpreted.

“We are very excited to be able to make the show accessible to our Deaf community and hope that this will lead to many more shows offering Auslan Interpreting,” said Fiona Shaw.

“We can’t wait for the Coffs Harbour community to be blown away by what has been created here plus we have three live bands,” said Rebecca Nicholson.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.jettytheatre.com/schoolof-rock-the-musical/ or from the Jetty Memorial Theatre box office which is open Tuesday to Friday from 12pm – 4pm.

George Gittoes Ukraine documentary to premiere at SWIFF

THE Australian Premiere of George Gittoes' new feature documentary, Ukrainistan Artist War, will screen as a late addition to the 2023 Screenwave International Film Festival lineup, screening on Tuesday 2 May at the Jetty Memorial Theatre, Coffs Harbour.

Gittoes’s powerhouse documentary

follows artists behind the frontline, waging a war on war in the face of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Afghanistan after the withdrawal of foreign forces.

An anti-war film in the tradition of Picasso’s Guernica, Gittoes and partner, producer/musician Hellen Rose, go beyond

the headlines and behind battle lines of Ukraine and Afghanistan to candidly capture the tragedy of those now displaced and separated by the Russian-Ukrainian war.

"It is always important to push the boundaries of the documentary medium - but in this film, it was more important than ever as

the film starts with Picasso’s 'Guernica', I was challenged to find the means to, ‘scream out’ a new anti-war message, for a time when we all know, war should be over," George Gittoes said.

As with Gittoes’ award-winning documentaries about war and the human stories of hope and redemption (Soundtrack to War, 2005 and Love City, Jalalabad, 2013), Ukrainistan Artist War is an urgent and essential film that delivers an outcry of optimism that humanity can end violent conflict and embrace peace through creativity.

A special Q and A with George Gittoes and Helen Rose, live from Kyiv, Ukraine, will follow the film.

The Screenwave International Film Festival (SWIFF) is on now, hosting over 140 film screenings and events through to May 5 in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen, New South Wales.

Trade Stalls, Farm Machinery Display, Scarecrow competition, Silent Disco, Mums & Bubs.

q Ukrainistan Artist War will screen on Tuesday 2 May at the Jetty Memorial Theatre, Coffs Harbour.

RURALROUNDUP

Bellingen Show launches a program of plenty

By Andrea FERRARI

THE Bellingen Show program has been printed and posted online, detailing a mass of different things to do for the big weekend event on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May.

To provide a glimpse into the show's highlights, Bellingen Show committee members shared their personal recommendations with News Of The Area.

Show President Susan Lumsdaine said, “There’s many ways you can join in the fun of the Bellingen Show.

“Buy a family pass and spend the weekend with us or enter in one of the many activities or competitions on offer.

“We’re encouraging folks to take advantage of our great value online pricing by securing their tickets early.

“I’m really happy with this year’s attractions, particularly for young people.

“We want the show to be relevant and interesting and we’re hoping the silent disco

and chill tent will be welcome additions to our activities program.”

For Vice President and foodie Gillian Anderson, the highlight will be cooking demonstrations with local chef Mitch Grady, Ayurvedic cook Amy Graham and celebrity chef Lyndey Milan.

“Watch out for the Bellingen Show raffle stall out the front of IGA and on Show Saturday, you don’t want to miss your chance to win a seat at the Show Sunday Chef’s Table lunch prepared by these amazing chefs using the best local produce,” said Gillian.

Bellinger River Agricultural Society committee newcomers Brett Wieck and Bronwyn Napiorkowski illustrate the diversity of what a contemporary show looks like.

Brett and the Weick family have long been connected with the Bellingen Show and cattle industry, with Brett himself being a past winner of the Supreme Exhibit.

As Chief Steward for

Cattle, Brett tells us, “It’s all about beef cattle this year.

“We’re expecting big numbers with breeders coming from up and down the coast, as well as inland, to compete.”

Art therapist and Artisan Tent manager Bronwyn Napiorkowski loves the colour, vibrancy and knowledge sharing that comes with the Artisan Tent demonstrations and workshops.

“I love that we are putting our local spin on the traditional country show.

“My childhood show memories are filled with grubby fun with friends and family.

“I hope we can be part of that memory-making for young people in our community.”

Long standing committee members Kae Anforth and Mary Moody will once again put their hearts into creating spectacular Pavilion displays.

“Every year, we are astounded by the quality of entries,” Kae commented, “we especially love seeing

the creative genius of the young ones with their fruit and vegetable creations and painted gumboots.

“We’ve got some new categories this year, including a Fermented Produce category.

“We know the judges are looking forward to sampling the kraut, kombucha and kimchi entries.”

Bellingen Show Operations Manager Rick Maunder is encouraging people to get a team together for the Young Farmers Challenge.

Explaining what the Young Farmers Challenge involves, Rick said, “There’s a misconception that this event is only for farmers, but really it’s for anyone aged eighteen to 35 who loves a physical challenge.

“Teams go head-to-head against each other in a series of competitive challenges.

“These can be anything from saddling a drum, potato throwing, fencing, shearing a sheep (with coloured chalk), hay stacking and shaving a balloon.

“We’d love to see local businesses enter staff teams, there’s $400 up for grabs, but

more importantly the glory of the Bellingen Young Farmer title.”

Pre-sale tickets are now available from the Bellingen Show website.

For those who prefer not to purchase their tickets online, advance tickets can be bought through the Show office on Wednesday afternoons, then

every day during Show week from Monday 8 May. Grab a copy of the Bellingen Show program, schedules and entry forms from local businesses or download from www. bellingenshow.com.au. Stay in the loop on social media at www.facebook.com/ TheBellingenShow.

a gear that will get it done. The MS-1 Series delivers HP and has a smooth transmission with 36 gears. Take on vineyard narrow model or go with the standard for farming applications.

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q Bronwyn Nap, who runs a fun Artisan Tent at Bello Show. Photos: Jay Black.

q Youngsters getting stuck into a messy creative session in the Artisan Tent.

By Manny WOOD

Planes, trains and automobiles

DAVID decides to update his will. He nominates his four children, Levi, Kate, Charlie, and Billy as executors.

However, his solicitor advises David to consider reducing the number of executors as the children are interstate and overseas, which may make it difficult to administer the estate.

David follows the solicitor's advice and chooses his daughter Kate as the sole executor with Billy as the substitute.

Over Christmas dinner, David informs his children of his decision regarding his will. His choice of executors creates tension and hostility in the family.

As a result, David instructs his solicitor to include all four children as executors and he signs his will.

David dies a few years later.

His children all fly-in for his funeral.

After David's funeral, the children instruct David's solicitor to apply for a grant of probate.

The solicitor explains that they can renounce as an executor, to make it easier to administer the estate, but all the children insist on acting.

The grant for probate is prepared and sent to Levi in Singapore.

However, Levi’s authorised witness fails to sign the annexures, prompting the solicitor to re-send the application back to Singapore to be re-signed.

Kate was on a cross-continental train journey when the grant was posted to her in far west Queensland.

She took an eternity to get the documents signed, causing further delays.

Charlie then received the application and asked his mate, Johnno to sign as the witness.

This invalidated the documents and the process had to begin again with Levi.

In the meantime, Billy had banked on receiving his inheritance and was now in dire financial difficulty with his car loan.

Eleven months had passed, and the documents were still not lodged with the Court.

This situation highlights the challenges that can arise when executors are spread far and wide.

It also emphasises the importance of considering practicalities and seeking legal advice before making decisions about the administration of your estate.

Thank you to Anthony Fogarty 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.

Concerns over new Coramba Interchange design

DEAR News Of The Area,

AS a member of the Coffs Bypass Community Consultative Committee (CCC) representing the Coffs Bypass Action Group (CBAG) I wish to bring to the communities attention, especially those living in the west Coffs basin, proposed changes to the Coramba Interchange made by Ferrovial Gamuda, the bypass builders.

The community was asked to give feedback to the design changes by 20 February after the January 23 update announcement, and to date, no reply to my submission outlining concerns has been received.

To have such a big design change from the Environmental Impact Statement design, which we were led to believe was the design since 2019, at the last minute is unsettling.

Surely Transport for NSW engineers who have been working on designs for the bypass for many years could not have got it so wrong that such massive change in design is warranted.

If such a big change in position was necessary, perhaps consideration could have been given to putting the interchange to the west of Coramba road well away from housing rather than further north.

Please check the old simple design against the “spaghetti” version currently planned.

In the old design, if you wish to go south from Coramba Rd, it was a simple left hand turn.

In the new design, it will be necessary to travel right firstly up a 4.7 percent ramp, turn a sharp left then go back down again.

Double the vehicle noise and pollution for the closest communities

The Joint Venture builders should consider the community being affected when the interchange and bypass is operational, not just for their ease of construction as this design change appears to be.

A little known fact is that Arcadis, another international design and consultancy company, was confirmed as the lead designer for the Ferrovial Gamuda Joint Venture.

Part of their solutions is “a pavement design that adopts asphalt with an innovative binder to increase stiffness and fatigue

resistance” and I hope this equates to a low noise asphalt being used along the bypass as per a condition of construction approval along with tunnels.

Worrying concerns:

The new interchange will be approximately 360m north of the EIS design not 200m as stated on Transport NSW brochures which is very misleading.

Whilst the new design is slightly further away from homes, it is now 2m higher than the old design, and combined with the distance further north, it appears the interchange will be more visually intrusive to the homes in the hilly terrain in the west Coffs basin.

The most important factor from the new interchange design relates to noise issues for the area in the vastly increased gradient of the south bound on ramp.

This has increased from one percent in the old design to 4.7 percent in the new which is over the desirable percentage gradient.

This increase in gradient, combined with an extra lane of traffic going south compared to the old design, will cause a huge increase in traffic noise volume.

The road design for the Coramba Interchange will accommodate B Double trucks – 26m.

Where are these vehicles going?

Everyone knows that the road from the interchange into the CBD along West High Street is a nightmare already.

There are a projected 1100 vehicles, up from 600 in the EIS, per day extra which will come off the new interchange which will have to disperse into Coffs.

The new noise report for this change of design is apparently not due out till possibly August and work should not commence on the Coramba Interchange until received. There are possibly a number of homes extra that will require noise remediation.

The western sun setting also needs to be taken into consideration for road safety with the loop design as anyone who has driven home to the west in the late afternoon knows how blinding the sun is.

The design speed of 110kph around the Coffs basin also needs to be reassessed by Transport as the route is very close to many homes.

A lower speed would be a simple remedy for Transport to help meet the noise level issue as required by the Department of Planning and Environment.

DEAR Jasminda,

MY dog latched onto the neighbour's chicken (he seems to like unprocessed chicken legs).

The chicken was, remarkably, not injured, but I am worried about this happening again. My other dog has no interest in them.

Hannah B.

Dear Hannah,

IF I were a chook detective (which, thankfully I am not), I would be asking a few pertinent questions about this chook-gnawing incident in order to establish innocence or culpability.

The most obvious question here, is where was said chook during the incident?

If it was in its own yard, then your chook-tackling hound is liable for any damages (physical and emotional).

Since the chook can't talk (though I'm sure it clucked a great deal when it saw its sunny-side-up days flash before its eyes), emotional damages may be hard to assess. I'd imagine her egg-laying may decline, in which case I think you owe your neighbours, at the very least, a dozen eggs a week until such time as the chook is over its PTSD (Post Thigh-Gnaw Stress Disorder).

If, however, the chook was in your yard, there may be a case that could be put forward in defence of the dog.

I'm sure, if your dog could speak, it would say something about home intruder rights and responsibilities (unless it was a Staffy, like my dog, in which case it wouldn't care what the intruder broke and would just play around, show him where the valuables were kept, and then jump in his car hoping he was going to the beach on the way home).

This defence has limitations and it would be up to the prestigious Hound Court to decide if your dog grabbed onto the chook in some sort of canine-amended Ju-Jitsu move due to its perception of danger (being henpecked, for example).

The following advice would probably not stand up in a court of law and I indemnify myself from being called as a witness.

Build a fence, Hannah.

You don't want blood on your hands.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

A lower speed of 80kph on the Coffs bypass will have a minimal effect on time taken but will have an enormous beneficial disruptive noise outcome for the newly affected communities along the route.

Ask any resident from the northern suburbs what the noise was like when the speed limit was increased from 80km to 110km and reports to this day say the increase in volume was unacceptable.

We need the bypass built, but let's try to get the best possible outcome for the community most adversely affected by the project along the whole new route.

Regards, Marina ROCKETT, Coffs Bypass Action Group, Coffs Harbour Bypass Community Consultative Committee member.

WEEK

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The main is large to say the least being 4.3m x 3.3m complete with a new ceiling fan.

The bathroom features both a shower cubicle and separate bathtub, whilst the toilet is separate altogether.

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o s t y o u s o m u c h i n “ D o l l a r s a n d S t r e s s ” . : W e ’ r e n o t t r y i n g t o d i s c o u n t y o u r p r o p e r t y , w e ’ r e h e r e t o p r o t e c t y o u r p r o p e r t y p r i c e B E F O R E t h e i n t e r e s t r a t e s d o w n o b o d y w a n t s t o s e l l b u t s o m e t i m e s o u r “ c i r c u m s t a n c e s c h a n g e ” ( H i g h e r i n t e r e s t r a t e s c a n m a k e r e p a y m e n t s i m p o s s i b l e l s e w h e r e , d o w n s i z in g o r r e l a t i o n s h i p c h a n g e s ) s o k n o w t h e b a n k s “ A r e N o t ” g o i n g t o s t o p t h e s e i n t e r e s t r a t e h i k e s f o r s o m e t i m e y e t T h i s i n i t s e l f w i l l s o o n h a v e p r o p e r t y a d j u s t e d . . a n d n o t u p w a r d s . . H o w a r e y o u g o i n g t o m a n a g e w h e n t h e L o w F i x e d T e r m I n t e r e s t R a t e i s a d j u s t e d t o t h e N e w H i g h - I n t e r e s t R a t e ?

s i d e s s e p a r a t e i n d i v i d u a l r e a s o n s f o r s e l l i n g , t h e s e H I G H E R R A T E S w i l l p l a c e s o m e h o m e o w n er s i n a v e r y P R E C A R I O U S P O S I T I f y o u r c i r c u m s t a n c e s h a v e c h a n g e d b e c a u s e o f t h e b a n k s , w h a t a r e y o u r C H O I C E S

1 ) M a n a g e t o f i n d a w a y t o r e f i n a n c e . ( w e c a n s e n d y o u t o a g r e a t b r o k e r ) k e t h e O p p o r t u n i t y N o w t o s e l l y o u r p r o p e r t y b e f o r e t h e s e r a t e s d r i v e t h e m a r k e t f u r t h e r d o w n w g o o d p r i c e !

3 ) S i t a n d w a i t f o r t h e b a n k t o m a k e i t s m o v e e p u t i n p l a c e a s p e c i a l m a r k e t i n g p l a n f o r a l l c h a n g e s i n c i r c u m s t a n c e ( d i f f e r e n t t o a n y o t h e r w i l l h e l p y o u s e l l a n d “ P r o t e c t Y o u r P r o p e r t y ’ s P r i c e ” n o t b e i n g N E G A T I V E w e r e b e i n g R E A L I S T I C I ’ v e b e e n s e l l i n g R e a l E s t a t e f o r 3 7 y e a r s a n d a n y o b u s i n e s s w h o h a s b e e n d o i n g t h e s a m e t h i n g f o r t h a t l o n g , k n o w s w h a t t h e y ' r e d o i n g , d o n ’ t t h e y o w w h a t h a p p e n s n e x t i n t h i s c h a n g i n g m a r k e t p l a c e a n d I k n o w h o w t o P r o t e c t Y o u r P r o p e r t y P r I n t e r e s t e d i n k n o w i n g w h a t w e d o d i f f e r e n t l y ,

a n d a f t e r o u r c h a t , i f y o u d o n t t h i n k I c a n h e l p y o u , d o n ' t c h o o s e m e , s i m p l e !

F r e e w i t h N o O b l i g a t i o n . .

PROPERTYWEEK

COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

&

New

New Listing & New Listing

Retire in style

18/369 Pine Creek Way, Bonville

This is the original display home at this sought after over 55’s village at Bonville. The 3 bedroom home is beautifully appointed with many extras!!!! These include; air conditioning, an ensuite and walk in robe to the master suite, Caesar stone benchtops and a dishwasher compliment the kitchen with the enclosed balcony being the ideal place to have a cuppa. There is also a work shop at the rear of the home whilst the tandem garage houses the cars. The new owner will have full access to the pool and park like areas with Sawtells pristine beaches and café strip being less than 10 minutes away by car. No Council rates or stamp duty to pay just a weekly site fee of $150.

For Sale – $489,000

Scott Bellamy 0438 581 611

Owner wants action – Price reduced!!!

32 Amaroo Cres, Toormina

Our owners are committed to moving North and have reduced the price on their lovely home. Their fantastic 3 bedroom family home presents in excellent order and is packed full of surprises. The home is air conditioned with the modern kitchen having a walk in pantry with the large enclosed sunroom adding additional living space. There is also a covered barbecue area and a detached colour bond shed for you to tinker in. The single garage has an electric roller door and internal access with the tandem carport housing other vehicles. This lovely home backs onto a park like reserve with the shops and schools being close by. Inspect today, you won’t be disappointed!

Home open Sat 29/04 11.00 – 11.30am

Price reduction – $695,000

For Sale – $895,000.00 the dream

6 Bryant Cl, Toormina

66581611

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

Well Kept Investment Opportunity

10 KATHERINE CLOSE, COFFS HARBOUR

• Ideally located home with tiled loungeroom & dining area

• Grey kitchen with corner pantry,

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

3 1 1

Opportunity Knocks

65 PLAYFORD AVENUE, TOORMINA

• Three bedrooms with new carpet and built in robes

• Easy care floating timber floors throughout the living, kitchen and hall areas

• Kitchen offers great viewing of the undercover entertaining area and out to the fully fenced backyard

• Approximately 5 minutes to shopping centre with bus stop nearby

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

unre.com.au/kat10

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

Land Size: 649.9sqm

The Entertainer

Land Size: 724.3sqm

Perfect Downsizer or Starter 4 MAKINSON CLOSE.

$649,000 - $669,000 $699,000 - $719,000

TOORMINA

$699,000

• 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

3 1 1

unre.com.au/pla65 unre.com.au/bow1

unre.com.au/mak4

Land Size: 506sqm

Easy Family Living

52 KINCHELA AVENUE, TOORMINA

$830,000 - $850,000

9 ANNA KRISTINA CIRCUIT, BOAMBEE EAST

• Great easy care family home ideally located in quiet street

• Large open plan living, dining area, plus formal sunken loungeroom

• Generous sized bedrooms, main with generous ensuite with full size bath

• Fully covered extra-large entertaining deck overlooking the sparkling inground pool

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

unre.com.au/ann9

$899,000 - $929,000

• Substantial high set home located in great family friendly neighbourhood

• Two living areas including formal lounge at the front of the home, plus tiled family room situated off the central kitchen with plenty of bench space

• Enormous main bedroom with ensuite & walk in robe positioned at the front of the home

• Two outdoor entertaining areas, including one overlooking the sparkling inground pool

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

Land Size: 886.8sqm

unre.com.au/kin52

Executive Living 61 JANE CIRCUIT, TOORMINA

$999,000 - $1,090,000

• Set on a huge 1100sqm lot and surrounded by thoughtful plantings the executive residence offers size, space and privacy.

• From the moment you arrive at the formal entry you know you are entering something special

• The kitchen and all three bathrooms have been recently renovated.

• Timber floors, plantation shutters, large deck overlooking pool, this home has it all.

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

5 3 4

Land Size: 1100sqm

unre.com.au/jan61

Impressive 20 VIEW DRIVE, BOAMBEE EAST

Price Guide $1.3m - $1.4m

• Here is your chance to own one of the largest, most unique homes in the area

• Boasting 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 2 kitchens

• This home is basically one three bedroom home on top of another three bedroom home

• Huge living areas with expansive views, sparkling in ground pool and quality inclusions

Chris Hines 0439 667 719

Kim McGinty 0432 953 796

6 3 2

Land Size: 1,040sqm

unre.com.au/vie20

CHECK ONLINE FOR OPEN TIMES 6658 6042

www.unre.com.au

137 Sawtell Road Toormina

Unrealestate Coffs Coast unrealcoffs

media@newsofthearea.com.au

1 3

drive to Sawtell Village & Toormina Shopping Centre Flat, easy to traverse block with manageable rear & front yards

50m

renovated kitchen and large outdoor entertainment

available Just 250m to Murrays Beach and a short walk into Sawtell Village

Spacious, flat, rear yard with convenient side vehicle access

to Richardson oval and a short walk to Sawtell Public School

Substantial family sized home with multiple living

Elevated

Rare opportunity to build your very own dream home!

Close driving distance to Sawtell Village and Toormina Shops

Private, peaceful location with gorgeous native forest at rear

DA approved plans for House + Studio available

to Sawtell Main Street, Beach and Public School 4 5

Spacious family sized home close walking distance

2,396 m2

Perfect for First Home Buyers, Investors or Downsizers

Spacious rear yard with drive-through vehicle access

Potential for development (R3 Zoning) STCA

250m to Boambee Bay Reserve/Estuary for safe swimming, paddleboarding and fishing

Substantial family sized home with multiple living zones

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 Shops & Local Schools

Space for boat, caravan or motorhome storage

Newcastle Permanent ranked best bank in Australia

By Andrea FERRARI

NEWCASTLE Permanent,

the Hunter-based financial institution, has been named the best bank in Australia, placed first in Forbes’ World’s Best Banks, an annual list created based on a survey of 48,000 banking customers across 32 countries.

The survey asks participants to assess banks at which they are either a past or present customer on factors such as general satisfaction, trust, digital services and customer service.

A total of 415 banks across the globe made Forbes’ final rankings in 2023, with Newcastle Permanent topping the tally for Australia.

Erica Farag, Branch Manager Lending, Coffs

Harbour told News Of The Area, “I think one of the things that sets us apart are our amazing people.

“Our staff are multitalented.

“They can do anything.

“For example, we had a young customer come into our branch at Park Plaza Shopping Centre earlier this year with the intention of ordering a new debit card on his existing Smart Saver account, so he could use his Christmas money to buy a video game he’d been eyeing off for months.

“We were able to get him a digital card, which meant he could immediately go buy the game before his physical card had even been dispatched.

"The boy’s father then asked us to review the rates for his mortgage.

"Our same team member had a look at his accounts, discussed his options with him, and was able to offer a reduction on his home loan.

“Our customers bring us chocolate, hot cross buns, finger buns – I’ve even been to a dinner party.

“We treat our customers like family and when we’re serving them, we always think ‘what would I expect if I was in their shoes?’,” said Erica.

Newcastle Permanent Chief Distribution Officer Paul Juergens said while the accolade was a pleasant surprise, it was also wellearned.

“We have long stated that our aim at Newcastle Permanent is to provide Australia’s favourite banking experience and this award

shows that we are walking the talk,” said Paul.

“Our customer satisfaction surveys regularly indicate our customers are highly satisfied with our services.

“In fact, our customers regularly give us a score of more than 90 percent and this award is further evidence that our customers have high trust in our people, our brand and our services.

“Newcastle Permanent has ranked in Forbes top five banks for Australia for a number of years – coming in third in 2020, second in 2021 and fourth in 2022 – but it’s wonderful to see our name at the very top.

“Winning such a prestigious award, one with global recognition, is a feather in our cap of which

we are immensely proud.

“Each day we aim to delight our customers with excellent service, to continue

treated.

to earn their trust, and provide banking services they need today and will want tomorrow.”

New equipment for Coffs Harbour Life Saving Club

By David WIGLEY

THE Coffs Coast Freemans recently purchased a muchneeded IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) trailer for the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club (CHSLSC).

Phil Robertson from the Freemasons was at Park Beach during the week inspecting the new, vital equipment.

“The Coffs Coast Freemasons are extremely proud to partner with the

LOCALSPORT

Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club,” said Phil.

“The Club provides a very important service to the community, and we are extremely happy to be able to provide support to these volunteers.

“For the Club to be able to provide this service, their equipment needs to be top notch and maintained, so we are very proud to provide them with this trailer.”

The CHSLSC is a community organisation

run by volunteers who are dedicated to protecting members of the public who surf and swim at Park Beach. Patrols are conducted on weekends and public holidays during the surfing season from September to April.

Members have just completed patrols over the Easter long weekend and ANZAC Day but will be finishing up the season at the end of April.

COFFS COAST News Of The Area

Mid North Coast Rugby Union season kicks off this weekend

By Aiden BURGESS

THE game they play in heaven is set for another big year of rucks and mauls, with the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern division season getting underway this weekend.

SCU Marlins kick off their season at home when they host the Kempsey Cannonballs at Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park.

The Marlins were one win from a grand final appearance last season, going down to the Port Macquarie Pirates in the preliminary final.

Coffs Harbour Snappers and Bowraville Goannas reserve grade sides get their

season underway when they play off in Bowraville this weekend.

The Hastings Valley Vikings begin their premiership defence at home when they take on the Port Macquarie Pirates in their grand final rematch at Oxley Oval.

The two teams played off in a grand final for the ages last season, with the Vikings prevailing 36-34 in the 87th minute.

Coffs Harbour Snappers first grade side begin their season at home against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Round 2.

The Snappers were knocked out in the first week of last season’s finals series.

q Erica Farag, Branch Manager Lending, Newcastle Permanent Coffs Harbour says their staff treat customers as they would like to be

q Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesavers Grant Lawler, Abbey Lawler, Levi Gunther, and Holly Becker with Coffs Coast Freemason Phil Robertson.

The Coffs Harbour Snappers women begin their premiership defence

at home in Round 2, when they host the Hastings Valley Helgas.

The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern division junior season also

gets underway this weekend, as SCU Marlins sides host the Kempsey Cannonballs.

q The SCU Marlins begin their season at home against the Kempsey Cannonballs.

Coffs Suns Youth Men win their first two home games of the season

By Aiden BURGESS

AFTER opening their representative season with two games on the road, the Coffs Harbour Suns Youth Men (Under 20s) have won their last two games at home as they play off in the Basketball NSW Waratah League.

With their normal home court of Sportz Central out of action, the Suns played their first two home games of the season at the Wiigulga Sports Complex in Woolgoolga.

The Suns won their first home game of the season 8156 against the Hawkesbury Jets.

They won their second straight game at Woolgoolga with a 77-72 victory against the Central Coast Crusaders Blue.

The two straight wins at home came after opening the season with two losses away from home.

Suns coach Adam Martin said it was a definite advantage to be back playing at home.

“Having the home crowd is great, and the boys

definitely feed off the crowd,” he said.

“And at the Woolgoolga complex the crowd is closer, whereas there's a bit of a buffer at Sportz Central.”

Martin said he was pleased with how his young

side were starting to come into their own early in the season.

“I have ten new players this season that haven’t played at this level,” he said.

“I’m pleased with how they have come together,

and they are getting more confident each game.

“The two straight wins will help them carry more confidence into this weekend when they play in Newcastle.”

The Suns’ first home game of the season at Sportz

Central is on Saturday, 20 May when they take on the Hills Hornets.

The Coffs Harbour Suns women’s team tipped off their representative season last weekend with an 89-66 win against the Tamworth

Thunderbolts in Tamworth.

The Suns women play their first home game of the season on Saturday, 8 July against the Tamworth Thunderbolts at Sportz Central.

McTernan makes Australian Para swim team for World Champs

By Andrea FERRARI

MADDIE McTernan has been named in the Australian Paralympic Swimming Team for the 2023 Para World Championships.

The 11th Para Swimming World Championships are being held in Manchester, England from 31 July to 6 August, 2023.

McTernan hails from Woolgoolga and honed her swimming talents with the Coffs

Harbour Swimming Club.

A passionately dedicated swimmer from a young age, 22-year-old Maddie is considered the fastest and most consistent S14 female competitor in Australia.

Alongside fellow S14 Australian teammate Ruby Storm, the girls will once again team up with fellow male S14 teammates, Ben Hance and Jack Ireland, who won the silver medal last year at the 2022 world championships in Portugal. They competed together in the 4 x 100m mixed Freestyle relay.

“Both Maddie and Ruby will be fighting for freestyle anchor spot in the 4 x 100m mixed medley relay,” Maddie’s father, Paul McTernan told News Of The Area.

“The person who gets this spot is decided on which female swims the fastest freestyle time in the earlier mixed 4 x 100m Freestyle relay.

“Maddie got last year’s spot where Australia was beaten for the gold medal by one hundredth of a second.

“Australia prides itself on medalling in relays,” said

Paul. Proud Maddie announced her news on social media, writing, “It’s official I have made my 5th Australian team, my 3rd world championships team, this time in Manchester UK.

“I would like to thank my sponsors who supported me and I would like to thank my coach and my club All Saints Swimming club, also the Coffs Harbour Swim Club and community, and my parents.

“I can’t wait to share this journey with everyone as I prepare for Manchester.”

q The Australian Dolphins Team 2023 at a meet in midApril, with Maddie McTernan front row first on left.

q The Coffs Harbour Suns Youth Men’s team celebrate their win against the Hawkesbury Jets.

q The Coffs Harbour Suns women’s team.

q Maddie McTernan with Para swimming legend Ellie Cole, now a swimming media commentator. q Maddie with the President of Swimming Australia, Dr Michelle Gallen (right) and Paralympics Australia CEO Catherine Clark (left).

the Westside Tennis Club.

By Aiden BURGESS

THE Harbour Tennis Academy will be rallying for mental wellness and social connection when it hosts the launch of an important program which aims to connect carers through the

game of tennis.

Carers NSW is partnering with RALLY4EVER to connect carers through the game of tennis.

For one hour each week during the school term, carers will have the opportunity to join

the RALLY4EVER tennis program which is designed to provide an opportunity to form long-lasting friendships and connections with other carers.

necessary equipment will be supplied.

The Harbour Tennis Academy will be hosting the launch of the program on Thursday, 4 May from 10am to 11am at the Westside Tennis Club.

light refreshments will be provided, and you will also have the opportunity to have a chat with the team about the program.

Carers NSW is the dedicated Carer Gateway service provider in the Central Coast, Hunter New England and North Coast regions of NSW.

A free morning tea and

The Harbour Tennis Academy is partnering with Carers NSW to host sessions of the program each Thursday during the school term, from 10am-11am at

To register your interest you can contact Carers NSW Carer Gateway Peer Facilitator and Carer Coach, Sally Pannifex, on 0438 057 261 or sallyp@carersnsw. org.au.

Sawtell Panthers to honour former junior

By Aiden BURGESS

THIS Saturday is set to be a big day for the Sawtell Panthers at Rex Hardaker Oval.

Not only are the Panthers hosting their first home games of the season in their local derby against the Coffs Harbour Comets, the club will be honouring the memory of a life taken much too soon.

The Panthers will honour the life of former junior Jake Kedzlie, who died tragically at the age of fifteen while playing for his beloved Panthers in 2013.

The Panthers players will be wearing special jerseys in

memoriam of the ten years since his passing, which will be auctioned off during the after-game presentation.

The Panthers have also honoured his memory with a mural and signage at Rex Hardaker Oval.

His mother Corryn said the Panthers' gesture to hold a tribute day had come out of the blue.

“I wasn’t expecting the club to do anything really, as it’s been so long since it happened,” she said.

“I was really surprised, and it’s a really nice and beautiful gesture from the club.

“His old mates are coming

to the game, and his best mate is playing for the Panthers, so it’s going to be a special day.”

Kedzlie had been awarded a scholarship to the Wests Tigers after an outstanding junior career.

His mother recalled his brilliant playing days.

“People still remember how good of a footballer he was,” she said.

“He was just a phenomenal player, and he definitely had a good future, and I think playing in the NRL was on the cards.

“He was just a really nice kid who really enjoyed his footy.”

Coffs Coast surfers have top results at Billabong Oz Grom Cup

By Aiden BURGESS

COFFS Coast’s top junior surfers have had top results against the nation’s finest juniors at the 2023 Billabong Oz Grom Cup in Coffs Harbour.

Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club and Sawtell Boardriders Club juniors had top four finishes at the annual event, which is one of the biggest competitions on the NSW junior surfing calendar.

By Aiden BURGESS

THE latest Tooheys New Group 2 Rugby League season kicked off last weekend, with the Coffs Harbour Comets getting their 2023 campaign off to a winning start.

The Comets beat the

defending premiers South Grafton Rebels 30-20 in their opening round match at Geoff King Motors Oval.

Coffs Harbour Comets Ladies League Tag side started their premiership defence with a 10-4 win against the South Grafton Rebels in their grand final

Points were up for grabs for the talented groms going towards their state and national rankings.

Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club member Creed Smart finished second

Harbour Tennis Academy to host program to connect carers through tennis Group 2 season kicks off

You don't need to have any previous tennis experience to join, and all rematch.

Both the Comets reserve grade and under 18s sides also had opening round wins against the Rebels, with the reserves winning 26-0 and the under 18s 16-6, as the Comets won all of their opening round matches in all four grades.

in the under 18 boys division, while Sawtell Boardriders Club member Rio Luther Barr finished third in the under 14 boys division. Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club member

The Woolgoolga Seahorses went down 3216 to the Nambucca Heads Roosters in their first grade match at Coronation Park.

The Seahorses reserves started their premiership defence with a 30-22 victory against the Roosters.

The Macksville Sea

Sage White finished third in the under 10 girls division, while Tilda Harrigan finished fourth.

Coffs Harbour Boardriders Club also held its second competition of the year on Sunday, 23 April.

The Ocean and Earth North Coast Regional Titles

Eagles kicked off their season with a 36-16 win against the Bellingen Valley/Dorrigo Magpies at Bellingen Park.

The Tooheys New Group 2 Rugby League season continues this weekend with Round 2 matches.

The Sawtell Panthers and Coffs Harbour Comets face off in their local derby at Rex Hardaker Oval on

will be held on Saturday, 6 May in Coffs Harbour.

The Ocean and Earth North Coast Regional Titles are the starting point and pathway to the NSW Grommet State Titles, NSW Junior State Titles and Australian Junior Titles.

Saturday afternoon.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses are at home to the Bellingen Valley/ Dorrigo Magpies on Saturday afternoon.

The South Grafton Rebels host the Nambucca Heads Roosters, and the Macksville Sea Eagles host the Grafton Ghosts on Sunday afternoon.

q The mural honouring the late Jake Kedzlie at Rex Hardaker Oval.

q Rio Luther Barr.

q Sage White.

q Creed Smart.

AFL North Coast season gets underway with ANZAC Round

By Aiden BURGESS

AUSSIE Rules has returned to the region as the latest AFL North Coast season got underway with its ANZAC Round.

The Coffs Harbour Breakers started their season on a winning note beating the Sawtell/Toormina Saints

7.11 (53) to 3.9 (27) in their local derby at Richardson

Park.

The game was a real arm wrestle to start as both teams struggled to create inside 50 chances, with the first goal to the Breakers coming well into the first quarter.

The Breakers started to take the ascendancy with a 15-point lead heading into quarter time.

The Breakers run and carry and delivery inside 50

troubled the Saints, as they started to break the shackles of the earlier contested game.

The Saints remained in the contest as their defence tightened up, with the Breakers taking a 19-point lead into half-time.

Wet weather footy became a factor as the rain came down in the third quarter, with neither side able to gain the ascendancy

as the Breakers couldn't deliver the knockout blow and the Saints couldn’t claw back the margin, as the Breakers increased their margin by one point from halftime heading into the final break.

A spirited Saints side kept coming at the Breakers, but the visitors held their nerve and remained firm in defence to hold off the young side’s challenge for the 26-point win.

Breakers coach Ben

Watson gave the keys to his side getting off to a winning start to the season.

“Discipline from our guys was the key, and I thought we executed better than Sawtell,” he said.

“Stopping their transition with the ball out of defence was big for us, as Sawtell are a young, quick side that likes to transition quickly with the ball, and we didn’t let them do that.

“The desire to win was there, but we still have a lot

of improvement, and we certainly didn’t play as well as we wanted to.”

Watson said the Breakers had a clear theme heading into the new season.

“Just to be disciplined is a big thing for us, and we have instilled fines for anyone who gives way 50m penalties or other indiscretions.

“I thought our discipline was excellent today, and another theme this season is that we play as one team, and we celebrate as one team.”

Pub Run a big hit

BEER and running.

Some say it's an unlikely combination but the Coffs Trail Runners are showing it's a big hit.

The Coffs Trail Runners launched their weekly 5.5km social run from King Tide Brewery on Thursday 13 April and enjoyed a well earnt beer post-run.

Creek.

Social run organiser Keelan Birch said it's the friendly atmosphere and the reward of a beer that makes it so popular.

"We were looking for a great spot to host a weekly social run and King Tide Brewery immediately stood out being in the middle of Coffs Harbour.

had 40 people show up with many first timers.

“You don't have to be a serious runner to join.

"It's a great way to meet active like minded people and enjoy a beer afterwards.

"We are also grateful to King Tide Brewery who support the run and offer anyone who joins in 50 percent of a beer."

5.5km social run from King Tide Brewery on Thursday 13 April and enjoyed a well earnt beer post-run.

The new social run takes place on Thursday evenings from 5:20pm, leaving from outside the Brewery and runs around the picturesque Coffs

Sawtell and Woolgoolga share the points

By David WIGLEY

THE community football season kicked off last weekend with almost five thousand players registered in the North Coast region.

In Women’s Division One, Sawtell FC and the Woolgoolga Wildcats shared the points in an entertaining 2-2 draw in their opening fixture at Toormina Oval.

In a game of two halves, Sawtell won the first 45 minutes scoring two goals but the Wildcats bounced back to square the match in the second half.

Sawtell coach Graham Shanahan provided match

insights.

“We played an excellent first half and we led 2-0 at half time,” he said.

“However we gave away a very soft goal from kick off and Woopi were back in it.

“Then two minutes later we were down to ten players when our full back was sent off for a foul as the last defender.

“The girls dug in and battled so hard with Woopi having the numerical advantage and we almost got the third when Kyah Sarvari hit a great shot that hit the crossbar and bounced on the goaline but was adjudged not to have crossed the line.

“With five minutes to go, Woopi equalised with a great header but the girls held on for a draw at the end with a super performance from sixteen-year-old Maja Robson in goal.

“Other standout players were Liana Hall, Gieva Shanahan and Lilly Henderson,” Shanahan said.

In men’s NCF Premier League the Woolgoolga Wolves defeated last year’s CPL runners up Coffs Coast Tigers 3-1.

Sawtell FC went down 4-1 to Grafton’s Westlawn Tigers and Sunday’s Anzac Cup between Coffs City United and Northern Storm was washed out.

"We have designed the run to be relaxed, on flat terrain and with a friendly social atmosphere.

"In our inaugural run we

For more information see the Coffs Trail Runners or King Tide Brewery Facebook page.

q The Coffs Trail Runners launched their weekly

q Coffs Harbour Breakers and Sawtell/Toormina Saints players commemorate ANZAC Round.

q Sawtell and Woolgoolga shared the points in round one.

Dorothy

May ‘Dot’

20th April 2023, peacefully at Baringa Private Hospital, late of Coffs Harbour.

Dearly beloved wife of Keith. Loving mother and mother-in-law of Tony & Jenny, Michael and Sandra & Kerry Albert. Adored grandmother and great-grandmother of their children.

Aged 83 Years

Gone Golfing

Dot was privately cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW

Accred No 12033-01

BOYDEN

Andrew Charles ‘Andy’

18th April 2023, late of Woolgoolga. Dearly beloved husband of Carolyn. Loved brother of Elizabeth, Judith and James. Cherished brother-in-law and uncle of their families.

Aged 76 Years

Lived Respected - Died Regretted

Wayne Leslie MacGregor

22nd April 2023

Passed peacefully at his home in Sandy Beach. Formerly of Victoria. Loving husband of Shirley. Loving father and father-in-law of Jason and Lisa, Robert and Paige & Aaron. Loving ‘Poppy’ of all his grandchildren. Will be sadly missed by all his family & friends.

Aged 66 Years

At Peace

ORCHARD

Leon

Gordon

26th April 2023, peacefully at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Dearly beloved husband of Belva (dec’d). Loving father and father-in-law of Dennis, Suzie & John Larcombe and Leonie (Tilly) Williamson (dec’d). Adored grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather of their families.

Aged 92 Years

Elaine ‘Margaret’ Gray

15th April 2023

Passed away at Baringa Hospital surrounded by love, after a brief but courageous battle. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly Brisbane. Adored wife of John (dec). Much loved mother of Phillip & Denise (dec), and mother-in-law to Chris. Treasured Grandma to Andrew & Katie, Jaime, Stevi, Alexis, and Jayden.

Aged 92 Years

Forever in our hearts.

As per Margaret’s wishes she was privately cremated.

VICTOR RULLIS

FUNERAL SERVICES

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Andy’s Funeral Service to be held in the Woolgoolga Community Village Hall, 8 Boundary Street, Woolgoolga on Monday 1st May 2023 commencing at 2.00 pm.

Ex Service Personnel and Masonic Brethren are invited to attend.

Andy’s Funeral Service will be live streamed on Keith Logue & Sons Facebook page.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999 Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW Accred No 12033-01

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Wayne’s funeral service to be held on Monday, 1st May 2023 at 11am in the Chapel of the Coffs Harbour Crematorium, Coramba Road, Karangi. Please wear red & black for Nilma/Darnun or red & blue for the Melbourne Demons.

Those who cannot attend are invited to view the livestream, the link is available on the Victor Rullis Funerals website.

VICTOR RULLIS

FUNERAL SERVICES

(02) 6651 5007 www.funeralcoffsharbour.com.au

McHARG

Alec David

17th April 2023, passed at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Late of Coffs Harbour, formerly of Northern Beaches, Sydney. Much loved partner of Karen. Loving father and father-in-law of Simone & Justin and Aaron. Cherished ‘Poppy Alec’ of Hunter and Emilia. Alec will be sadly missed by Yvonne and all his extended family and friends.

Aged 76 Years Taken

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Alec’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 5th May 2023 commencing at 10.00 am.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS

Coffs Harbour 6652 1999

Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW Accred No 12033-01

Will Be Always In Our Hearts

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Leon’s Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Hogbin Drive Crematorium & Memorial Gardens, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour on Friday 5th May 2023 commencing at 2.30 pm.

Bowlers are invited to attend.

KEITH LOGUE & SONS Coffs Harbour 6652 1999 Funeral Director’s Assoc. of NSW Accred No 12033-01

VIDLER Raymond Alfred ‘Fingers’

April 2023, suddenly, late of Grafton formerly of Woolgoolga. Loving father and father-in-law of Sam, Jade & Hailey. Adored grandfather of Riley, Lilly, Jayda, Gracie and Indianna.

LOCALCLASSIFIEDS

DEADLINE: 12noon WEDNESDAYS EMAIL: ads@newsofthearea.com.au WEB: www.newsofthearea.com.au

For Sale

ARCHERY bows, make an offer. 6653 8390

AQUACULTURE

Tank/Koi pond Black fiberglass, 1200L, open to offers: 0428 812 383

For Sale

BOOTS, blk s37 Effegie $50. 0432 294 491

CAMPING Meat griller (fold over bbq basket) Unused $15 ono Ph 0439 682 267 F301121

CAR safety lock. Solid steel bar. Steering wheel to accelorator. 3 keys $25. Ph: 6651 8500

COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

For Sale For Sale

For Sale

For Sale

BATTERY charger 24V $50 ono. 6656 2373

BED king and mattress good condition $70. Call John 6651 7710 F130123

CASIO Electronic Keyboard LK100 $100 Ph: 0432 869 587 F100223

CD collection of 10, big bands, swing, dixieland, jazz. $10 the lot. 6651 8500

Found

FOUND Vincent/ Fitzgerald Sts. Park Beach. Large wheelbarrow. Tel. 026651 9697

ELECTRONIC key control, Merlin brand found in Coronation Ave on Saturday. Phone 0411 380 625

For Rent

CLASSIFIEDS in the News Of The Area ads@newsofthearea.com.au

Email for Price & Proof

Free

Wheelchair

Wheelie walker walking frame and commode chair. 6649 1472 F100323

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 Re110823

BIRKENSTOCKS

SOLD

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

FRONT Bar off 1997

NK Pajero. Has been in storage since new. $ 90 ono. 6651 6076

GLASS punchset serves 12 $25 0414945023

LITTLE Golden Books library of 4, clean pages no screen learning $100 ph 0407 654 879

LIVESTOCK

SMALL TV, VGC Bauhn, 50 x 30cm $25 ono. 6650 0380

WALKING STICK, dual handle, quad foot, easy lift from seated, adjust height, light wt/strong alum $50 0407654879

SOLD

CRAFT collection cases Polished timber. Large 34x30cm 40 sections $20. Small 30x18cm 20 sections $10. Not made in China! Ph: 6651 8500

DINING table & 6 chairs extendable. Exc cond $600. Matching buffet & hatch $500. 6651 8929 or 0412 432 057. e070423

GYM equipment Exercise bike, rowing machine, ab machine Open this Offers 0429 945 374

HEAD phones, bluetooth wireless, new. $35. 0428 250 205 F200821

HOLEYPILLOW for painful ear. Used once Made in Australia. $30 ono. Ph 0428 099 704

Weighband, know your weights without scales - up to 1000 kg, $50 ph 0407 654 879

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

METRONOME for piano lessons $25. 6651 8500 F130123

STEERING Wheel to accelorator solid steel lock bar. Extra security for outdoor overnight parking $25. 6651 8500

SWAG – Big Country King Single in great condition $100 0408 522 575 F161222

TANDEM Holstar Grand Tourer bike, exc cond $1200. 0458 274 319

WALL unit, large, timber and glass, good cond teak. $75. 6652 5377

WETSUIT mens full steamer size medium Very good condition Adrenalin brand. $50 Ph: 0427 665 477

WORM

Boats

CHEST Freezer Fisher & Paykel includes basket $100. 02 6653 6586

COFFEE table, timber 700cm square with drawer $75. Phone 0418 278 966

COFFEE table, timber 650cm square $65 0418 278 966

BISLEY womens workpant stretch cotton S10 1x black 1x stone Brand new $30 each Ph 0432 294 491

COFFEE Table timber frame smokey glass top .7 x .6mtr $60 0422 440 802 Woopi

2 large Trek @ Travel backpacks. 1 blue 1 green. VGC, used once. $45 each. Ph 0403 034 480

A variety of pictures old & modern prints, several by old masters. Reducing collection, prices lower Phone 6652 3791

SOLD

BOAT Garmin, 12 channel GPS128 40 years of fishing marks Coffs area. $275 Humminbird, wide eye fish finder and fishing gear. 0402 582 586

BOOK SET, vintage (circa 1965) World of Disney, 4 in set, clean pages, no screen learning, $100 Ph 0407654879 f210423

BOOTS blk 37 Dj & J $90. 0432 294 491

SOLD

DINING Table Octagon & 6 swivel chairs, exc cond. Moonee Beach $95. 0422 440 802

REACH THE REGION

Coffs Coast News Of The Area ads@newsofthearea.com.au

Email

DOG kennel, green off the ground, 64cm L x 56cm W x 50cm

H. Weather proof exc cond. $55. 0415 981 605

JAGUAR Mk2 door $70 . 0409 372 995

JIGSAW colt js65jd exc cond $30. 6651 7710

JIGSAWS x 20 Clean and complete as new $4 each Ph: 02 6651 2553 F100323

$50 Ph: 0467 587 536

KUBOTA

Remanufactured

MG TC 1949 project $12,000. 0409 372 995

MOBILITY

TAPEGUN, Commercial hand tying machine includes 8 rolls tape & 5000 staples. $100 0407 654 879

TAPESTRY, Glass framed and wall hung $95. 0422 440 802

TRAILER Sailer Hutton 24 registered. Trailer & boat ready to go. $7500. 0427034446 Re230421

Motors

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

OUTDOOR setting table with 6 chairs $100 ono. 0427 797 266

F240223

TENNIS racquets, man and ladies older style (Yvonne Goolagong) $40.00 each. Phone 0401 221 864

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

2008 VW Golf hatch auto, 244,307km, 6 mth rego. $6,000. Ph 0477 990 446 Re020623

NISSAN Pulsar 2016 sedan 4cyl. Exc cond Rego til May 2023 CJ48KV. 73,210kms $16,875. Ph: 6652 7329 or 0422 642 215

Caravans

SOLD

COMPRESSED cement sheet ‘Hardies’part of sheet 1800mm x 900mm x 15mm, L-shaped. $65. 0407654879

COMPUTER aided drawing machine Open to offers Ph: 0429 945 374

DONUT Maker ‘Sunbeam’ DM3200, 5 normal size donuts $50. 0407 654 879

L1-24DT tractor

– 28hp 4WD. 200 hours only, shedded

• AGMAX 4-in-1 selfleveling front end loader (SWL 300kg)

•HERCULES certified

PIANO, Yamaha electric exc cond. $500. 6651 8929 or 0412 432 057.

SOLD

DRESSING Table 6 large drawers & mirror solid timber, exc cond $95. 0422 440 802 Moonee Beach

DVD complete set all 7 seasons Madmen $50ono 0488 763 132

FISHING rods. 2 Surf casters over 4m long 1 boat rod. Complete with reels. $100 for the lot. Ph: 6656 2373

FLAVOURCHEF cooking systyem-brand new $50 ono SMS 0409 916 076

FRIDGE, fisher & paykel 275L, exc cond, $125 ono. 0428150643 F120321

FRIDGE, GC, goes well. Small freezer at top $100. 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688

folding ROPS frame

• AGMAX 4′ slasher

• towbar and ball

• Shuttle shift

• Cat 1 TPL

• 4 Speed PTO

• Gears 16F/16R

• 4WD

• Rear differential lock

• Split brakes

• Seatbelt

New cost $30k. As above $20k. Ph 0411 141 453

LAPTOP hard drive cloning kit $30. 6649 2967

LARGE bench for work or decoration. 2m have a look. Phone 6652 3791

LOUNGE 2 seater 2x 1 seater wooden arm rests exc cond $100 Call John 6651 7710

PRESTIGE Pressure cooker perfect cond. Trivet, basket and spare seal incl. $99 Ph: 6653 8337 or 0419 166 688 F220422

TIFFANY coffee maker makes 10 - 12 cups of coffee, drip type with filter $20 ono. 6650 0380

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

SHOES, size 8. Summer style, Dianna Ferrari. New. Beige / dusty pink colour. Paid $138, sell for $50. 6651 4237 or 0459 040 014

SHOWER Screen good cond 2 sides, one slider can deliver locally $99 call 0434 212 460

SLEEPING Bag 1900 x 900, also opens out to a blanket. Used once. $50 ono. 0439 682 267

SLEEPING Bag 3D Jumbo with inner Opens out fully, - 5deg used once. $75 ono 0439 682 267 F060123

TIMBER venetian blind 1145 x 1155 drop. $35 as new 0419166688

EASY Tourer BIKE Apollo road racer 12speed. Shimano wheels, gear and brakes $400. 0449 158 553 e190523 For Sale

TOWBAR Complete suit Subaru Forrester 2000 - 2007. $90. 0422410169

2010 AVAN cruiseliner fitted with remote control movers on wheels. Many extras Complete with awning & accessories Ph: 0428 525 591 $25,000

15000 papers

TYPEWRITER, portable Vintage Royal 200, hard cover carry case, GC $100. 6653 1402 F030223

WALKER 4 x 8inch wheels top cond. $60 Ph: 6652 7062

Coffs Coast News Of The Area ads@newsofthearea.com.au

: 1. A kennel. 2. It translates as tray gardening. 3. A cereal made from rice (Rice

and Times are for

Graph

THE RIGHT TABLE SHOW TIDAL VARIATIONS AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS

The time variation should be added to the corresponding Fort Denison time.

(low)

BubblesTM).

TRADESSERVICES

Home Improvements

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Contractors Licence 77993C SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAKS, ROOF REPAIRS, ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL, EAVE CLADDING AND EXTERIOR PAINTING

SPECIALISING IN ROOF LEAK REPAIRS, ROOF REPAIRS ,ROOF RESTORATION, RE-ROOFING, GUTTER REPLACEMENT, FASCIA BOARD REPLACEMENT, COLORBOND FASCIA COVER, COLORBOND EXTERIOR WALL & EAVE CLADDING

DESIGNER OF VERSATILE CLADDING MADE FROM COLORBOND SUPPLY ONLY OR SUPPLY AND INSTALL.

4 METHODS OF USE:

FLUSH VERTICAL, FLUSH HORIZONTAL, OVERLAP HORIZONTAL AND EAVE LOOK

Mobile 0434 330 555 nestlershomeimprovements.com.au nestlersversatilecladding.com.au

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ONTHEBOX

BEST ON THE BOX

MONDAY MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7.30pm

COFFS COAST NEWS OF THE AREA

WEDNESDAY THE 1% CLUB

SUNDAY SOCCER

WIN BOLD, 3pm

It’s a historic year for women’s soccer (or football, if you will) in Australia. With the Matildas recently scoring a landmark victory over England, breaking a 30-game winning streak ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil in July, there’s never been a better time to get behind the sport. In what could be another fairytale finish, Western United will play in this year’s A-League Grand Final today, hoping to finish their debut season with the championship trophy in hand. Tara Rushton (pictured above) leads the coverage live from Sydney’s

FRIDAY, April 28

6.00 The Drum.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney plants with her dad.

8.30 Traces. (Mal) McKinven’s wife joins the investigation.

9.20 Miniseries: Miss Fisher And The Crypt Of Tears. (Mv, R) Part 2 of 2. Phryne and Jack find the third and most important Crypt treasure.

10.10 Aunty Donna’s Coffee Cafe. (Ml, R) Broden goes to a buck’s party.

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.55 Close To Me. (Madl, R)

11.45 Smother. (Mlv, R)

1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

While many cooks follow recipes dutifully, step-bystep, we all know those who can craft masterpieces from a closed recipe book, adding and substituting ingredients on the fly. The makers of surely in the latter category – deftly mixing classic flavours with new tastes for & Favourites, making the kids happy with MasterChef Junior and now keeping us on our toes with a short-yet-sweet Secrets & Surprises

In tonight’s premiere, the contestants are immediately thrown in the deep end when Jamie Oliver arrives to kick-start the competition. With judges Andy Allen, Melissa Leong (pictured right) and Jock Zonfrillo

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Wrecks That Changed The World. (Final, PG)

8.30 Robson Green’s British Adventure.

9.25 Exploring Northern Ireland. (PGas, R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav)

11.45 Cheyenne & Lola. (MA15+l, R)

1.50 Romulus. (MA15+av)

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Dr Harry Cooper meets a bulldog that attacks brooms and mops whenever the owners clean the house.

8.30 MOVIE: Angels & Demons. (2009, Mav, R) On the eve of the election of the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, a professor and a physicist race against time to find four kidnapped cardinals and stop a terrorist attack on Vatican City. Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Ayelet Zurer.

11.15 To Be Advised.

12.30 Home Shopping.

SEVEN, 7.30pm

Reckon you’re smarter than 99 per cent of the population? This new comedic game show aims to tell viewers exactly where they lie among the general populace, with Los Angeles-based Australian comedian Jim Jefferies (pictured) all too pleased to announce the bad news. Starting with 100 contestants, ringed around a stage reminiscent of a Roman amphitheatre, host Jefferies asks a logic question that 90 per cent of 1000 Aussies surveyed answered correctly. Get it wrong, and the fun really begins. Jefferies is in his sharp-tongued and sassy element as he roasts and toasts the contestants, presenting increasingly difficult problems to solve.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 9. Brisbane Broncos v South Sydney Rabbitohs.

9.55 Golden Point. Post-match

NRL wrap-up.

10.40 MOVIE: Beirut. (2018, MA15+alv, R)

A former US diplomat is called back into service. Jon Hamm.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGaln) Chappo sees a swimmer struggling.

8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R) Follows dispatchers and paramedics working for NSW Ambulance’s Sydney operations.

9.30 Territory Cops. (Mav, R) The constables focus on a major drug and alcohol issue affecting the community.

10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Madlv, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, April 29

6.00 Rage. (PG) 6.55 Rage Closer. (R) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 Traces. (Mal, R) 1.15 Capital. (Ml, R) 2.05 The Durrells. (PG, R) 3.05 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 3.55 Landline. (R) 4.25

Scottish Vets Down Under. (PG, R) 4.50 The Dark Side Of The Universe. (R) 5.50 Great Australian Stuff. (PG, R)

6.50 Bluey. (R) Bluey and Bingo explore their holiday hotel room.

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

7.30 The Royal Variety Performance 2022. (PG, R) From the Royal Albert Hall, London.

9.20 A Grand Royal Design. (R)

An inside look at the restoration of Dumfries House, a rundown estate in one of the most deprived parts of the UK.

10.15 Miniseries: Ridley Road. (Mv, R) Part 2 of 4.

11.15 Fires. (Mal, R) Tash and Mott head to a beachside community.

12.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 The World From Above. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch.

2.00 Figure Skating. ISU World Synchronised C’ships. H’lights. 4.00 Motorcycle Racing. FIM Superbike World C’ship. Round 3. H’lights.

5.00 Going Places. (R) 5.30 Walking Wartime England. (Premiere)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG)

8.30 Kensington Palace: Behind Closed Doors. (PG, R) Part 1 of 2.

10.20 Lennon’s Last Weekend. (Mad, R)

11.30 Outlander. (MA15+)

12.40 Germinal. (Mav)

1.45 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. (Mls, R)

3.25 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SUNDAY, April 30

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders.

10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PGa, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30

Prince Charles: Inside The Duchy Of Cornwall. (PG, R) 3.25 Miriam & Alan: Lost In Scotland. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 5.00 Art Works. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Compass: Lottery Of Life.

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

7.30 Grand Designs: Canterbury. Hosted by Kevin McCloud.

8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Ma) Part 3 of 4. Village tensions reach crisis point thanks to the popularity of a local artisan bakery and mill.

9.50 Close To Me. (Final, Mals)

Jo learns what happened to her.

10.40 MotherFatherSon. (Madlv, R)

11.40 Road To Now. (PG, R)

1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.05 The Heights. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 The World From Above. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike C’ship. Round 3. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Women’s race. H’lights.

4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-BastogneLiege. Men’s race. H’lights. 5.30 Walking Wartime England.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of The SabreToothed

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 To Be Advised. 1.30 Motorbike Cops. (PGl, R)

2.00 Football. AFL. Round 7. Sydney v GWS Giants.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

7.30 MOVIE: Men In Black II. (2002, PGh, R) A secret agent enlists his former partner. Tommy Lee Jones.

9.15 MOVIE: Deadpool 2. (2018, MA15+lv, R) Deadpool recruits a team to protect a young boy who is being targeted by a time travelling cyborg. Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin.

11.40 To Be Advised.

12.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Perth SuperSprint. Day 1. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PGhv, R) Harry Potter is being hunted. Daniel Radcliffe.

10.15 MOVIE: Conan The Destroyer. (1984, Mv, R) Arnold Schwarzenegger.

12.05 MOVIE: Nerve. (2016, Ma, R)

1.50 9Honey Hacks. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping.

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGaln, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (Return, PG) A Yorkshire terrier pair show size does not matter.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown.

8.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv) Jamie learns that Eddie’s friend’s restaurant may be a drug front. Erin faces disturbing accusations.

9.30 CSI: Vegas. (Mm) Medical examiner Sonya’s life is in jeopardy when she is exposed to a mysterious poison.

10.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R)

11.30 Fire Country. (Mv, R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R) 1.00 MOVIE: Wild Wild West. (1999, PGlsv, R) 3.10 Motorbike

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

8.30 7NEWS Spotlight. An exclusive, special investigation.

9.30 The Latest: Seven News.

10.00 Born To Kill? Herbert Mullin. (MA15+av) A look at the case of Herbert Mullin.

11.00 Quantum Leap. (Ma)

12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Perth SuperSprint. Day 2. Highlights.

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

(MA15+al)

12.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+adv, R) 12.50 The Garden Gurus. (R)

6.30 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (Final, PGals) The top three celebrities receive a visit from their loved ones, before the King or Queen of the jungle is crowned.

9.00 The Last Last Late Late Show Special. Tom Cruise reunites with James Corden for one final over-the-top sketch.

10.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mav) Tennant is involved in a chopper crash.

11.00 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, May 1

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News.

1.00 The China Century. (Mal, R) 2.00 The Day Will And Kate Got Married. (PG, R)

3.00 Escape From The City. (PG, R)

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

5.30 Hard Quiz.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 9.20 Legacy List. (Final, R) 10.25 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 11.15 Icons. (Malv, R) 12.10 WorldWatch.

1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. Round 2. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.30 Ballroom Fit. (R) 4.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGs)

7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

9.00 9-1-1. (Return, Ma) A dry thunderstorm rolls over Los Angeles, bringing a series of lightning strike emergencies for the 118.

10.00 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Return, Ma) Thunderstorms hit Austin.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 10 Years Younger In 10 Days. (PGa, R) People’s appearances are transformed.

12.30 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

TUESDAY, May 2

Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Kill Off. (PGl, R) 9.25 Make Me A Dealer. (PG, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 Icons. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Secrets To Civilisation. (Mav, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R)

3.30 The Cook Up. (PG,

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGs)

7.30 Cosentino: Decennium. (PGl) International magician and illusionist Cosentino presents his best acts of the last 10 years.

9.10 The Good Doctor. (Mam) A patient’s faith seems to cause Asher some skepticism in light of his own relationship with religion.

11.10 The Latest: Seven News.

11.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Backpacker Murders. (MA15+av, R) A look at the backpacker murders.

2.00 Home Shopping.

5.00

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (Return, PGal) A fresh batch of amateur cooks competes.

9.15 Ghosts. (PGls) A recently awakened teen ghost decides to sabotage all the relationships at Woodstone.

9.45 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mav) The team must navigate the mistrust of authorities in a tight-knit Somali community in Minnesota.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGa) Jamie Oliver is back for another day in the MasterChef Australia kitchen.

9.00 NCIS. (Mv) The NCIS team digs deep to investigate a US Navy lieutenant who is accused of trying to murder her husband but has no memory of the attack. Kasie navigates a potential medical scare.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

WEDNESDAY, May 3

World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Mlw)

8.35 Brian Cox: How The Other Half Live. (M) Part 2 of 2.

9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+al) The Free French train with the SAS.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Furia. (MA15+av)

12.00 Unit One. (MA15+av, R)

4.15 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.45 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

THURSDAY, May 4

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (M)

8.30 Asking For It. (Malnsv)

9.30 Miniseries: Conviction: The Case Of Stephen Lawrence. (MA15+)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Catch And Release. (Premiere, Mal)

11.50 Beneath The Surface. (MA15+ads, R)

4.25 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGs)

7.30 The 1% Club. (PGls) Jim Jefferies hosts a game show where contestants must answer increasingly obscure questions.

8.35 Accused. (Mav) A teenager suspects foul play when he discovers his mother’s former hospice caretaker is dating his father.

10.35 The Latest: Seven News.

11.05 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Family Murders. (MA15+av, R) A look at the murder of six young men.

12.30 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia.

(PGa) Amateur cooks compete.

8.40 Law & Order: SVU. (Ma) The search for a suspect who is drugging women’s drinks leads the unit to Muncy’s brother.

9.40 Fire Country. (PGav) An internal investigator suspects Jake of being the serial arsonist who has been setting recent fires.

10.40 Bull. (Mv, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions continue as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli and series creator Simon Cowell. Hosted by Ant and Dec.

9.45 The Front Bar. (M) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL. 10.45 The Latest: Seven News. 11.15 Fantasy Island. (Ma)

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PGa) Contestants must raid Shannon Bennett’s fridge.

8.40 The Bridge. (Mls, R) Twelve strangers have 17 days to build 330m of bridge to an island, and claim a $250,000 prize.

10.10 Law & Order: SVU. (Masv, R) A popular fighter goes missing.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

COFFS COAST

Friday, 28 April 2023

Aussie Rules Returns

Richardson Park.

By Aiden BURGESS

THE Port Macquarie Magpies have started their premiership defence in dominant fashion with a 19.10 (124) to 6.7 (43) win against the Grafton Tigers, in the opening round of the AFL North Coast season.

The Byron Bay Magpies made a dominant debut in the competition, with a 15.29 (119) to 1.0 (6) win against the Northern Beaches Blues at the Wiigulga Sports Complex in Woolgoolga.

The Northern Beaches Blues women got their premiership defence off to a great start with a 11.7 (73) to 1.1 (7) win against the Byron Bay Magpies.

The Coffs Harbour Breakers women won by 8 points against the Sawtell/ Toormina Saints in their opening round match at

Coffs Harbour Breakers under 18s had an 8.8 (56) to 5.1 (31) win against the Sawtell/Toormina Saints, in their grand final rematch at Richardson Park.

The Breakers reserves beat the Saints by 57 points.

The Port Macquarie Magpies reserves and women’s teams also had big wins, beating the Grafton Tigers by 89 points and 71 points respectively.

The AFL North Coast season continues this weekend with Round 2 matches in Coffs Harbour, Grafton, and Byron Bay.

Coffs Harbour Breakers host the Port Macquarie Magpies in their grand final rematch at Fitzroy Oval.

The Sawtell/Toormina Saints head north to take on the Byron Bay Magpies, while the Northern Beaches Blues travel to take on the Grafton Tigers.

q Em Pitomaki from the Northern Beaches Blues is unable to crash through a tackle against the Byron Bay Magpies. Photo: AFL North Coast.