Busy Spring for SES Stroud
Miracle Urban claims Young Woman sash
MIRACLE Urban has been announced the winner of this year's Dungog Show Young Woman competition.
The competition promotes awareness of the contribution of young women in rural communities and agricultural industries.
Miracle, 23, serves as the Dungog Show Committee’s Vice President and Beef Cattle Steward, and works as a Sales Support and Livestock Administrator for Kempsey Stock and Land.
LOCAL LEADERSHIP
“I entered the rural Young Woman competition as I am passionate about agriculture and inspired ON Thursday, 7 November the Royal Hotel Dungog hosted the closing session of the Community Builders Program (CBP), a grassroots
Community Builders workshop inspires leaders in Dungog Shire
funded by Rural Aid to
regional leadership and economic resilience. Mandurah (Western Australia) Mayor Rhys
Williams and Tracey Hatch, Queensland’s “Publican of the Year” and a Longreach Shire councillor, were featured speakers at the event, imparting insights on effective community-building strategies. The CBP supports regional communities in
to
their unique needs and strengthen their economies.
q Dungog Show Treasurer Helen Urban, Young Woman winner Miracle Urban and Show President Jeanie Briggs–Seers.
LOCAL LEADERSHIP
Page 1
Peter Kenyon from Bank of I.D.E.A.S, an advocate for community-driven growth, hosted the event.
Williams, who became Mandurah’s youngest mayor in 2017, shared his approach to engaging youth in community life, drawing from his experience working with many communities worldwide.
“Creating a sense of hope is key,” said Williams, noting that valuing people’s stories is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging.
His guiding principles include co-designing opportunities with young people, establishing leadership pipelines, and ensuring inclusive participation.
“Physical spaces matter for building community,” he added, highlighting the importance of incorporating Indigenous cultural elements.
Hatch, awarded for her community-focused approach as publican of the
Wellshot Hotel in Ilfracombe, Queensland, advised attendees to “diversify, listen, and talk to everyone”.
“It doesn't matter who they are or what they drive,” she said.
Known for her dedication to her outback roots, Hatch reminded the audience, “You can have the most magnificent buildings in a town, but it’s about the people.”
Kenyon praised Williams as a “future premier of WA”, highlighting the value of the CBP in igniting local leadership.
The evening concluded with Williams reflecting on the mutual benefits of mentorship.
“Mentoring is a mutual relationship,” he said.
“I can learn from you and you from me.”
Cash is king
AN exciting new exhibition by local artist Helene Leane opens at the Dungog Museum as part of the Dungog Christmas Street Party.
Over the past year Helene has been creating a body of art work inspired by a beautifully ornate National Cash Register located in the Dungog Museum.
Helene’s exhibition is titled ‘Bing Bang Ring. Cash is King!’.
The exhibition, made possible with funding from the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, is part of an Arts Upper Hunter initiative to enliven local museums with the work of three resident artists; Helene at Dungog, Sophie Cox at Scone Museum, and Todd Fuller at Tocal Homestead.
At the Dungog Museum, Helene’s exhibition has
added a unique perspective to the museum's collection.
Once a centrepiece in Skillen’s grocery shop, this historic National Cash Register served the community until 1966, when Australia transitioned to decimal currency.
Working with this object as artistic inspiration, Helene has looked into the consumer products of the day, promising the exhibition which features pop art style works to be “bold and colourful”.
Dungog Museum
President Maureen Kingston said the project is a “novel and new one” for the regional museum.
“It will showcase our pre decimal cash register, which was state of the art for its day,” Maureen said.
“It will also have large photographs of the shops of
the era as well.
“The museum is delighted to be able to collaborate with a local artist for this most interesting display.”
Suzannah Jones is the coordinator of the ‘This Here Then Now’ program at Arts Upper Hunter.
"We’re very excited to see the final outcome of Helene’s work over the past year," Suzannah said.
"Helene has worked hard to delve into and explore the history of this beautiful object, and its place in the Dungog community.
“We are very intrigued to see museum activation in action at the Dungog Museum.”
The exhibition, which will be on display indefinitely, opens at 6pm on Friday 29 November at the Dungog Museum.
q Tracey Hatch.
q Rhys Williams.
q Helene Leane in her studio with one of her colourful pop art styled works inspired by the history of the National Cash Register at the Dungog Museum. Photo: Suzannah Jones.
Miracle Urban claims Young Woman sash
FROM Page 1
by the growth of women in the agricultural industry,” Miracle said.
“I would love to be an ambassador for young likeminded women in our rural communities.”
Dungog Show President Jeanie Briggs–Seers said Miracle was a deserving winner.
“Congratulations to Miracle Urban on being sashed this year's Dungog Show Young Woman,” Jeanie said.
“She is remarkable in everything she does towards our show, in the community and personally.
“Having Miracle beside me as Vice President is priceless and not a task goes undone when I need it.
“Aleisha [Thornton] and Issabell [Seers] were also wonderful Young Woman entrants who made our whole show society proud… [they] represented the show with grace yesterday.”
Miracle will now go on to compete at the zone level of the Young Woman competition.
Busy Spring for SES Stroud Heifer auction raises thousands
By Thomas O’KEEFE
SPRING has been busy for the Stroud SES Unit, with a series of emergencies, as well as some fun community engagement events.
The unit’s interim rescue vehicle was replaced in September with a purpose built and equipped Medium Rescue Vehicle.
It contains all that is needed for road crash and flood rescues, such as battery-operated tools to cut and prise open doors, stabilisation equipment for accident scenes, a flood rescue kit, and some storm damage equipment.
“[It] has already seen three callouts since it was first obtained,” Stroud SES Deputy Commander Greg Snape told the News Of The Area.
“[These] included the Karuah highway crash on
25 October, where the unit worked well with NSW Police, Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue NSW 471, and the ambulance service, to extricate the driver before they were taken to hospital.
“Two further motor vehicle accident (MVA) callouts were also carried out, one near Wootton on the M1 and another on the Lakes Way near the M1.”
Last month there was
also an aborted search in Pindimar, which began after a distressed woman appeared at a house.
Police were called but a subsequent search by PolAir, drones, dogs, and SES contingents sent from Stroud, Nabiac and Forster-Tuncurry, was called off due to the absence of an official missingpersons report.
Early October saw Stroud SES present at the Stroud Show on 5-7 October, where the new truck was shown off.
Even Sonic and Spiderman could not resist getting hands-on with the new tools.
The Stroud unit was also happy to receive enquiries from potential new members.
“There are so many different skills you can learn and we can certainly give you all the training you need to become competent in one or many roles we perform,” Greg explained.
“Thanks also to Chris, a Deputy Unit Commander at Ashfield/Leichhardt Unit for assisting us and visiting the area.”
0458
By Shannon BENTON
A SPECIAL charity auction at the Dungog Show on Saturday, 9 November raised key funds for causes close to the Show Committee’s heart.
The subject of the auction was Dolly, an 11-month-old Speckle Park cross Limousin weaner heifer, with funds raised to support both the Dungog Show and Dolly’s Dream.
Dolly was donated by Mark and Ursula Watts from Watts Speckle Parks at Glendon Brook.
She was prepared for the auction by Miracle Urban, the Show’s Vice President and Beef Cattle Steward.
The heifer sold for $2600 at auction, with the winning bid coming from Dungog local Shelby Maree.
In addition to the auction, the Show Committee also ran a raffle, and sold 34 bales of hay and nine wooden chairs.
A third of the proceeds from two calcuttas went to charity too.
In total the charitable efforts raised $6,586.
Half the proceeds ($3,293) will support the
Dungog Show, while the other half goes to Dolly’s Dream, a charity combating bullying and supporting mental health.
The charity funds education and direct assistance to young people
and families affected by these issues.
“A massive thank you to everyone for their support and participation in our charity raffle and auctions; we couldn’t do it without you all,” said Ms Urban.
“The community’s support has been outstanding.”
q Helen and Miracle Urban q Miracle Urban
q Stroud SES had a large and visible presence at the recent Stroud Show.
Photo: Stroud SES.
q SES Stroud assisted NSW Police and Fire & Rescue on the scene at the Karuah highway crash last month. Photo: Stroud SES.
q Sonic and Spiderman got acquainted with some of the SES gear. Photo: Stroud SES.
q Shelby Maree with Dolly the auctioned heifer.
Dungog Show
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By Lisa WISEMAN
THE Dungog Show traditionally runs on the Friday and Saturday of the second weekend in November.
Friday is usually the less busy of the two days, with most of the big drawcards like fireworks and the demolition derby held on the Saturday evening.
Schools often take advantage of the quieter first day.
This year was no exception, as groups of Dungog schoolchildren and teachers enjoyed the show.
Young equestrians had taken a day off school to compete in Local, Rider and Stock Horse classes.
Some thrills and spills featured in the Friday morning ring events.
According to Horse Steward Liz Elliot, entries in those events were down slightly on Friday, perhaps because of the
rising costs associated with competing.
The Pavilion also had plenty of junior entries in a variety of classes, from Lego to Playdough.
Farm and Garden
Produce Steward Carmel
Tippett noted that entries in that section and the Pot Plants and Flowers were up, likely due to the good growing season.
Carmel said the Produce Section judge was particularly impressed by the quality of the locallygrown carrots.
Individuals and
organisations including schools and Destiny Haven won prizes.
The Handicraft, Needlework and Cookery Sections also had very respectable numbers of entries presented in colourful displays.
Over in the far corner of the showground, the Maiden and Ladies Campdrafts raised dust, while stockwhips cracked and riders shushed and shouted at the cattle.
The weather was fine and warm, ideal for the first day of the show.
q Awarding the ribbons in the 15 Years and Under 17 Rider Class.
q Out the gate in the Maiden Draft: Bruce Snape on Taravale Dream Acre.
q Working in the yard: Shannon McCormack on Cawarra About Time in the Maiden Draft.
q Needlework section champion Leanne Doorey from Glen Martin (right) with her crocheted cardigan.
q Dungog Agricultural and Horticultural Association committee members Carmel Tippett (r) and Mandy Shumack (l) with Young Woman Competition entrant Issabell Seers.
Australian economy prepared for Trump: Chalmers
By Andrew BROWN and Poppy JOHNSTON, AAP
AUSTRALIA faces slightly slower growth and additional inflationary pressures from a second Donald Trump presidency but the federal treasurer believes the nation is well placed to withstand financial shocks.
Australia is likely to fare better than other nations in handling potential economic pressures, Jim Chalmers said during an Institute of International Affairs event on Monday.
Mr Trump has proposed significant tariffs on imports into the US as part of his second term agenda.
But Dr Chalmers says Australia is prepared for such a scenario should the measures be implemented.
"We should expect a small reduction in our output and additional price pressures, particularly in the short term," the treasurer will say.
"But specific features of the economy, like a
flexible exchange rate and independent central bank, would help mitigate against some of this."
Mr Chalmers says the impact globally to the proposed tariffs from the US would be much more substantial, according to Treasury modelling carried out before the US election.
"The timing of this, and the responses and ramifications that might follow - what economists call second-round effects - are difficult to predict," he will say.
"But we wouldn't be immune from escalating trade tensions that might ensue. This is consistent with the views expressed last week by the prime minister."
Australia was able to negotiate significant exemptions to tariffs imposed by the US during the first Trump term.
The treasurer believes Australia's diplomatic efforts had a key bearing on economic policy.
Moody's Analytics senior
economist Stefan Angrick said higher tariffs on US imports posed the "biggest risk" to the broader AsiaPacific region.
"The economic impact will depend on the specific policies implemented and their timing, but Trump's campaign promises of higher tariffs, more restrictive immigration policies, and broad changes to US fiscal policy and regulation suggest a tumultuous period ahead,"
Mr Angrick said.
Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black said universally applied tariffs on goods going into the US would weigh on demand for Australian-made products but he was hopeful exemptions could again be negotiated.
Mr Black flagged the incoming Republican president's promise to cut the US corporate tax rate from 21 percent to 15 percent as a "significant concern" for Australia.
During the first Trump presidency, cutting the
company tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent was followed by an "immediate outflow of capital from Australia and other jurisdictions to the United States", he told ABC radio.
With a company tax rate of 30 percent, Mr Black said Australia was the third least competitive jurisdiction in the OECD.
Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce said a trade war would be "very bad" for Australia and it was important to "get along very well with what is the most powerful ally we have".
"You take away our capacity to trade, you take away all those accoutrements and benefits in your lifestyle," he told
Seven's Sunrise program. Dr Chalmers' speech came ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese travelling to South America later in the week for talks with world leaders at the APEC and G20
summit. The summits will be the last time Mr Albanese will be face to face with outgoing US President Joe Biden.
q Jim Chalmers says Australia can navigate any financial shocks that come with the Trump presidency. Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS.
By Mike HELY
THE Member for Page Kevin Hogan, has slammed proposed laws that he says will give the government extraordinary powers to regulate speech and decide what is classed as misinformation.
Mr Hogan says Labor’s “Communications Legislation
Amendment (Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill 2024”, is “an attack on free speech”.
“This is the most dangerous Bill that has been introduced to Parliament in decades. It has no place in Australia,” he said.
“Already I am getting calls, letters and emails about the Albanese Government’s
planned laws.
“Imagine if this was in place during the Voice debate, when Labor labelled any view it didn’t like or agree with as ‘misinformation’.”
The Government said the proposed changes would increase the transparency and accountability of major digital platforms and their responses to seriously
harmful misinformation and disinformation.
Search engines, social media platforms, news aggregators, web forums, dating sites and podcasts with interactive features are among those that would be regulated under the Bill.
Enforcement would be through the Australian Communications and Media
Authority (ACMA), which would have the power to issue formal warnings, remedial directions and infringement notices.
ACMA could also apply for injunctions and civil penalties.
Misinformation is described as incorrect or misleading information that is spread through error or ignorance.
Disinformation however, is deliberately and maliciously spread, often for political or financial gain.
The inflammatory social media posts shared in the wake of the Bondi and Wakeley stabbings earlier this year are examples of the harm it can cause.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government’s intention was not to stifle freedom of speech, but to keep Australians safe.
“Following public consultation… revisions have been made that carefully balance the public interest in combatting seriously harmful misinformation and disinformation, with the freedom of expression that is so fundamental to our democracy,” she said.
Unlike other Western democracies, Australia does
not have freedom of speech or freedom of expression enshrined in the Constitution, but there are certain protections available under international treaties and common law.
Mr Hogan is concerned that further restrictions will lead to censorship.
“Digital platforms don’t care about the free speech of Australians, but they do care about their profits.
“So, they will censor large amounts of material to avoid the risk of fines.
“The provisions of the Bill are extremely broad and would capture many things said by Australians every day.
“Left-wing academics, scientists and artists are all exempt from the proposed rules.
“But if an everyday Australian said the same thing, or if they disagreed with the academic, it could be deemed misinformation.
“It’s hard to believe that a government in any democracy would put this forward.
The Bill has been referred to the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee. Its report is due by 25 November.
Call for clubs, bosses to treat deadly cancer seriously Labor Bill an ‘attack on free speech’
By Luke COSTIN, AAP
HAVING escaped a neardeath experience, Anne Gately is keenly aware of the damage the sun can do to Australians.
So the stage-four melanoma survivor is not content with the lukewarm approach adopted by too many businesses and sporting clubs.
"As a culture, I believe we're not really aware of this issue that the sun is causing," the mother-of-two told AAP.
"Sure, we all have a role to play to protect ourselves.
"But there are a lot of circumstances when we're in an organised environment like sport... or in workplaces where there's not enough regard for protecting people from the sun."
That includes in cricket, where data suggests many players lack access to shade and workplaces where sun protective equipment garners less focus than wetweather gear.
The danger is crystal clear to the advertising and marketing leader, whose pain from a suspected gym
injury six years ago was later identified as stage-four melanoma.
"It was in my bones and I was basically riddled with it," she said.
"I was told the historical prognosis of my diagnosis was about 12 to 24 months."
Fortunately for Ms Gately, she is among rare cases of advanced melanoma to respond to immunotherapy treatment.
But one of Australia's deadliest cancers still claims more than 1300 lives a year, more than the national road toll in 2023.
About 18,000 people are diagnosed each year, with those in Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia and NSW most at risk.
Data released last week shows NSW's hotspots centre on the sun-soaked north coast and regional areas.
The Port Stephens LGA ranks 13th in NSW for melanoma incidence rates, with the MidCoast in 15th, Lake Macquarie 16th and Newcastle 25th.
Byron Shire has risen to third place while neighbour
Ballina leads the pack for melanoma rates adjusted for population.
More than one in 1000 people living in the top-five areas are expected to be diagnosed in 2024.
"Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world and as a community it's imperative we take the threat of skin cancer seriously and follow the simple, life-saving steps
needed to reduce our risk of this deadly disease," NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said.
Cancer Institute NSW says people should think about sun exposure whether they're
going to the beach, for a walk or hanging the washing.
The most effective defence is to wear protective clothing, SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses, and to seek shade.
q Page MP Kevin Hogan says Labor’s misinformation Bill is ‘a betrayal of democracy’.
q Anne Gately's body was riddled with cancer before immunotherapy treatment. Photo: supplied/AAP
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
JAMIE OLIVER: FAST & SIMPLE
TEN, 7.30pm
Jamie Oliver (pictured) is so keen to make cooking as easy and fuss-free as possible that it wouldn’t be surprising if the affable chef released a series (and of course, a tie-in cookbook) where he whips up delicious meals without a single dish, tool or appliance – perhaps even a meal that cleans the dishes for you? Oliver’s passion for making our lives both healthier and simpler is clear: this new entry shows us how to save time in the kitchen on weekdays with some clever tricks, batch recipes and pantry essentials to keep on hand.
SATURDAY
ENCANTO
TEN, 6.30pm
Packed with catchy tunes crafted by Hamilton scribe Lin-Manuel Miranda, this animated Disney musical blooms with colour and captivating Colombian flair as it tells the story of matriarch Abuela (voice of María Cecilia Botero) and her exceptional descendants. Their enchanted home, Casita, grants each of them a magical gift – that is, all except 15-year-old Mirabel (pictured, Brooklyn NineNine’s Stephanie Beatriz). After her cousin Antonio turns five and gains the ability to speak to animals, Casita’s magic begins to fade, but Mirabel is the only one who can see it – at first. Her quest to save the family weaves a powerful tale about compassion, empathy and the invisible burdens many of us carry. A welcome change from the traditional Disney princess tales, Encanto casts a spell.
MONDAY MURDER IN A SMALL TOWN
SEVEN, 9pm
If a murder mystery can be considered pleasant, this is it. Karl Alberg (Rossif Sutherland, pictured) needs to soothe a psyche that has been battered by big-city police work, so he moves to a quiet, coastal town in the Canadian province of British Columbia. But, far from finding the quiet life, Karl quickly learns the gentle paradise has more than its share of secrets. He will need to call upon all the skills that made him a world-class detective to solve the murders that continue to wash up on his shore. Karl also doesn’t expect to find romance, but is drawn to local librarian Cassandra (Kristin Kreuk, Smallville). It’s as soothing as crime gets.
News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Shetland. (Malv) Calder and Tosh must work together.
9.30 Fisk. (PG, R) Helen and Roz are forced to relocate. 10.00 Question Everything. (R)
10.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 11.05 ABC Late News. 11.20 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 12.05 The Space Shuttle That Fell To Earth. (PG, R) 1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Doctor Who.
6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (Mav) 8.30 Castle Secrets. 9.25 Kennedy. 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 The Lesson. (Mal)
12.25 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mav, R)
2.55 Inside The Modelling Agency. (R)
3.50 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, 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. Melissa King explores The Calyx.
8.30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie: The Big Reveal. (Final, PG) Landscape designer Jamie Durie reveals his eco-masterpiece.
9.30 Murder In The Goldfields. (Madv, R) Caroline Overington investigates three murders in the sparse desert of the Western Australian Goldfields. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Taken. (Mav, R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
(62) VICELAND
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III: Forests. (PGa, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
8.40 MOVIE: Spencer. (2021, Mal) Diana Spencer decides to end her marriage. Kristen Stewart, Timothy Spall.
11.00 Inside Beverly Hills. (PGm)
11.50 MOVIE: Dancing Through Christmas. (2021, PGa, R)
1.35 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Drive TV. (R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Jamie Oliver: Fast & Simple. Presented by Jamie Oliver. 8.30 Matlock. (PGa, R) Matty settles into her new role at Jacobson Moore. Olympia takes on a lawsuit involving a developmentally delayed teenager. 9.30 NCIS. (Mad, R) As NCIS mourns the loss of Ducky, the agents find comfort in working on one of his unfinished cases. 10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 The Project.
SATURDAY, November 16
6.00
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 7.55 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.25 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Teen Titans Go! 10.40 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (Return)
8.25 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. (R) 9.15 1968: A Year Of War, Turmoil And Beyond. (M, R)
10.10 So Long, Marianne. (Mals)
11.10 Paris Paris. (PGals, R)
12.05 Hope. (Madlv, R)
2.20 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am The Man
Who Knew Infinity. Continued. (2015, PG) 6.40 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 8.30 Limelight. (1952, PG) 11.00 The Conference. (2022, M, German) 1.05pm The Program. (2015, M) 3.00 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 6.00 Race. (2016, PG) 8.30 Ava. (2020, MA15+) 10.20 5 To 7. (2014, M) 12.10am While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.00 Hamburger Hill. (1987, MA15+) 4.05 The Program. (2015, M)
SUNDAY, November 17
6.00
You Can’t Ask That. (Madl, R) 10.55 Miniseries: Marriage. (Final, Ml, R) 11.55 Miniseries: Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? (Mav, R) 12.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered: Nature’s Great Divide. (R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Nancy Drew. (2007, PG) 9.05 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Venice From Above: City On Water.
9.45 JFK Revisited: Through The Looking Glass. (Mav, R)
11.50 Waterman: Duke –Ambassador Of Aloha. (PG, R)
1.35 Royal Autopsy. (MA15+s, R)
3.20 How To Get Fit Fast. (R)
4.15 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
VICELAND (31)
(32)
6am Race. (2016, PG) 8.30 Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams And Monsters. (2019, PG) 10.05 The City Of Lost Children. (1995, M, French) 12.05pm While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.00 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 4.00 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 6.20 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 8.30 Rendition. (2007, MA15+) 10.45 Mama, I’m Home. (2021, M, Russian) 12.45am The Survivor. (2021, MA15+) 3.10 Late Programs.
look at places to eat, stay and explore.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A passenger is concealing something in her luggage.
7.30 MOVIE: The Sound Of Music. (1965, G, R) A woman becomes governess to an Austrian family. Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer. 11.10 MOVIE: Last Night In Soho. (2021, MA15+alv, R) Anya Taylor-Joy. 1.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 1. Highlights. 2.30 Home Shopping.
4.00 Larry The Wonder Pup. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000, Mav, R) A Roman general seeks revenge. Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix.
10.35 MOVIE: Conan The Barbarian. (2011, MA15+sv, R) Jason Momoa.
12.40 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (Ms, R)
1.35 Surfing Australia TV. (PGl, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Adelaide 500. Qualifying and support races. 3.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race 23. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 AFL Women’s Pre-Game. 7.30 Football. AFL Women’s. Semi-final. Hawthorn v Port
6am Children’s Programs. 12.40pm MOVIE: Pokémon The Movie: Black – Victini And Reshiram. (2011) 2.40 MOVIE: Pokémon The Movie: White – Victini And Zekrom. (2011) 4.40 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 5.40 MOVIE: The Flintstones. (1994) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PG) 10.45 MOVIE: The Adjustment Bureau. (2011, M) 12.50am Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Border Security: Int. (PG, R) 12.30 Border Security. (PG, R) 1.00 Motor Racing. Supercars
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl)
8.35 Tsunami: The Wave That Shook The World. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
10.35 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R) 11.45 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 2. Highlights. 12.45 The Starter Wife. (Mas, R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 8.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Premiere, Mlv) A detective returns to her home town. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 See No Evil: The Man In The Cowboy Hat. (Mav)
6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Southside Flyers v UC Capitals. 2.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 3.30 MOVIE: The Pink Panther. (2006, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Superman Returns. (2006, M) 10.45 MOVIE: The Brothers Grimsby. (2016, MA15+) 12.30am Gotham. 1.30 Love After Lockup. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Late Programs.
6.00
MONDAY, November 18
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The
TUESDAY, November 19 6.00
6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Into South America With Nick Knowles. (PGa)
8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)
Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
Have I Got News
A Criminal Affair. (Mals)
Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R) 3.00 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 3.55 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Flash Of
Genius. Continued. (2008, PG) 7.45 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 10.00 5 To 7. (2014, M) 11.50 The Justice Of Bunny King. (2021, M) 1.45pm Race. (2016, PG) 4.15 Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams And Monsters. (2019, PG) 5.50 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 7.30 Like Father, Like
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.00 Murder In A Small Town. (Premiere, Mav) A detective moves to a quiet, coastal town only to encounter numerous murder mysteries. 10.30 S.W.A.T. (Mav)
11.30 The Latest: Seven News. 12.00 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGals) 12.30 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
A Current Affair.
RBT. (Madl)
A Killer Makes A Call. (MA15+av)
9News Late.
Chicago Med. (MA15+amv)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG)
8.30 The Zelensky Story. (Final, PG) 9.30 World’s Greatest Train Journeys From Above. (R) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Babylon Berlin. (Manv) 12.45 Son Of. (MA15+av, R)
2.25 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (Final, PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 Defying Gravity: Curtain Rises On Wicked. (PGl) A behindthe-scenes look at Wicked 10.10 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) 11.10 The Latest: Seven News.
Air Crash Investigations. (PGa, R)
Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R)
Morning
6.10
(2021, PG,
7.50
Storm. (2016, PG, Japanese) 10.00 Rabbit Hole. (2010, M) 11.40 Mama, I’m Home. (2021, M, Russian) 1.40pm Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 3.55 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 6.05 Tourism. (2017) 7.30 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 9.25 Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 11.10 Late Programs.
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Sunday evening for publication on a Wednesday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
WEDNESDAY, November 20
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50 Operation Ouch!
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Michael Mosley: Wonders Of The Human Body.
8.30 The Jury: Death On The Staircase. (Malv)
9.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v)
10.45 SBS World News Late.
11.15 Maxima. (Premiere, Mls)
12.10 Miniseries: DI Ray. (Malv, R)
3.40 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (Final, PGav)
8.30 The Big Trip. (PGal) The teams travel to Streaky Bay, where Lehmo teaches Dilruk to drive.
9.30 First Dates UK. (Ma) Singles experience the thrills of dating.
10.35 The Latest: Seven News.
11.05 Unbelievable Moments
Caught On Camera. (PGal, R)
12.05 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+av)
1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(62)
6.00 Deal
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGm)
8.30 ARIA Awards. (Mls)
10.10 9News Late.
10.40 My Life As A Rolling Stone. (Madl, R)
11.55 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Mav)
12.50 Hello SA. (PG)
1.20 Talking Honey.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
12.50 Parliament Question Time. 1.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Catalyst. (PGm, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
SBS MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.25 Tourism. (2017) 7.50 Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 10.05 We’ll Be Young And Beautiful. (2018, M, Italian) 11.45 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 2.05pm The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 3.45 After The Storm. (2016, PG, Japanese) 5.55 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 7.30 Iron Sky. (2012, M) 9.15 Iron Sky 2. (2019, M) 10.55 Clean. (2021, MA15+) 12.40am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, November
Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.00
Cities. (PGan, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00
(R) 2.10 Secrets Of
(PGa, R) 3.00 Plat Du
3.10 Railway Vietnam. (PG, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl, R) 1.40 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 2.10 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R)
Of
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Osher Günsberg: A World Of Pain. (Mads)
9.40 Miniseries: Steeltown Murders. (Premiere, Malv)
10.45 SBS World News Late. 11.15 Miniseries: The Typist. (Masv, R)
12.20 Pandore. (MA15+av, R)
4.05 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
Up Bitesize. 3.20 The Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 Adam Eats The 80s. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Greatest Escapes With Morgan Freeman. 10.10 Invisible Nation. 11.45 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Malcolm.
Continued. (1986, PG) 7.05 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 8.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 10.35 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 12.25pm Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 2.10 Tourism. (2017) 3.35 Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 5.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 7.30 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 9.40 Hurricane. (2018, MA15+) 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) Police search for illegal firearms.
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa) Documents the work of the highway patrol.
8.30 The Front Bar: Year In Review. (Ml) A lighter look at the world of sport.
10.00 Nurse Georgie Carroll Sista Flow 2.0. (Mals)
11.45 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)
12.45 Magnum P.I. (Mav)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RPA. (PGm) 8.30 Emergency. (Mm) 9.30 A+E After Dark. (Mlm)
FINAL REMINDER
DUNGOG STORE CATTLE SALE
This Friday 15th November 2024 @ 11:30am Dungog Saleyards
Consisting of the following local cattle:
D Mackay - 20 angus steers 14 to 17mths
Stamo Beef - 4 angus steers 15mths
Chumbra Angus - 14 angus steers 8 to 9mths
K Daly - 17 angus steers 8 to 9mths
Hondell Pastoral- 10 ultra black steers 8mths
Paton Resources - 20 angus steers 7 to 9mths
G & G Littleman - 5 angus heifers & calves
R & A Garaty - 4 angus cows & calves (2nd calf)
Verheul Holdings - 10 angus cows & calves
K Flannery - 5 X bred heifers & calves
K Flannery -5 Devon X cows & calves
50 Head of mixed store cattle to be drafted
Further entries are invited and expected
Dungog Ph 02 49 921704
A/h Kel Sullivan 0427 921 704 or Paddy Dillon 0428 921 009
DUNGOG District Chamber of Commerce
Advises notice of temporary street closure to traffic
29 November 2024 4pm to 7pm Dowling Street Dungog from Mackay St intersection to Brown St Brown St intersection to Hooke St Brown St to remain open to Dungog railway station, access to IGA carpark available via Hooke St
ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Public Notices
Garage Sale
SAT 16th Nov. 23
Cawper Street, lane access. 8am-12pm
Camping gear, household items e131124
Garage Sale
DECEASED estate garage sale held on Sat 16th Nov @ 8am, 20 Mahogany Drive, Gloucester. Numerous electrical tools [all in working order].
Garden tools tool boxes, old medicine cabinet, ladder, trestles & plank, tow behind fertiliser spreader/25kg fertiliser, wheel barrow Paint rollers, handles sandpaper, scrapers etc. Too many more to list, come along & have a look.
free Three upholstered bridge chairs (art-deco style) free, Canon colour printer/scanner (needs ink) free; Rinnai gas heater free. 0410 495 553 f301024
DECK/POOL
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I HAVE a 30th party to attend next weekend and I'm not a big party person.
I don't enjoy drinking and I'm quite shy, but I'm also flattered that I was invited. Is there a polite way to leave if it all gets too much?
Petra L.
Dear Petra,
Some people love parties and others would rather drive, blindfolded, across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in peak hour than stand around making
small talk, often with complete strangers. However, you've RSVP'd and it would be rude to cancel at such short notice, so there are a few strategies you can employ to make the night bearable, and maybe even enjoyable.
1. Have a pre-planned exit strategy and share it with the birthday host when you arrive. If you have young children you can blame the babysitter. A dog? Maybe it's unwell and you can't stay for long. Or say you have an early morning appointment on the following day.
2. You could ask a friend to call you at the time you'd like to leave. Make an appropriate comment and say it loud enough for people to hear. Something vague and alarming will work, like: 'Oh, I was having such a good time, but of course. I'll leave straight away.' There is no need to elaborate.
3. Once the cake and the speeches are over, it's okay to make an exit. By then the drinkers will be in full swing, performing radical moves on the dancefloor, crying in a corner, relaying a tedious story, or passed out on the lounge. You should say goodbye to the host and the people you've been chatting with, but there is absolutely no requirement to say goodbye to everyone. It can take up to another hour, and no one has the energy for that.
4. At the start of the night, look around the room and see if you can find a kindred spirit. Maybe someone is sitting on their own, nervously twirling a glass of mineral water, and glancing at their phone. Go over and say hello. They are probably feeling just the same as you, and they'll be grateful that you made the first move.
Boot Camp
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Falling branches
DEAR News Of The Area,
AT the very recent 127th Dungog Show, a large portion of the viewing area was cordoned off because a branch of a very old tree adjacent to said viewing area had come crashing down the day before the show.
These random limbs that fall for no apparent
reason, are called 'Widow Makers' in the timber industry.
On this occasion, the widow maker fell harmlessly between a horse float and its towing vehicle.
There are four of these very old trees, magnificent in their size and age, on the Dungog Showground.
Because of their age and danger to the public,
they must go.
Sad as it is, they must go.
They can be replaced.
Some years ago, many young trees were planted on the Dungog Showground at the behest of Mr Keith Lober (nicknamed at the time Sir Gum Trees because of his passion for planting those small saplings).
Lest We Forget: Alexander Stewart Convery
By Martin HOLMES CSM
THIS story is part of a series about military veterans laid to rest at Dungog General Cemetery by Dungog RSL subBranch Vice-President Martin Holmes.
S4957 Able Seaman Alexander Stewart Convery –WW2 (RAN)
ALEXANDER (known as Rudd) was born at Branxton, NSW in 1923 to parents Peter and Christina Convery.
At age 17, on 30 December 1940 in Sydney, he enlisted/ mobilised in the RAN for service during WW2.
Alexander was to undergo initial seaman training at RAN shore establishments HMAS Rushcutter (Balmoral, NSW) and HMAS Cerberus (Mornington
Peninsula, VIC), which also included gunnery training.
Having completed his training he was posted to the HMAS Westralia in September 1941, remaining with the ship until August 1942.
The HMAS Westralia was a merchant cruiser and during this time was escorting ships to Darwin, PNG and Timor, and later performed escort duty off the east coast of Australia and into the South Pacific.
He was then transferred to the HMAS Manoora (similar ship) and continued to undertake shipping escort duty until October.
He then spent several months at HMAS Penguin (Mosman NSW) awaiting his next ship which was the HMAS Bungaree, an auxiliary minelayer.
Alexander was posted to the HMAS Bungaree during MarchAugust 1943 while the ship was
Mr Lober's small trees have grown and turned the northern end of the showground into a beautiful shady area.
If those old trees were to be removed, it could make room for the extension of the 'Apex Building' that is now known as the BBQ building.
That extension could become the bar, and the present bar, situated as it is, in the very wrong place, could become another food outlet.
laying defensive minefields off Australia.
He then spent further time at HMAS Penguin doing several short attachments to other ships and establishments.
From June 1944 until September 1945 he served on HMAS Ararat.
The HMAS Ararat was a corvette with anti-submarine and mine sweeping capability.
This was a dangerous and busy time, with the ship conducting operations around New Guinea, Morotai, Borneo and involved in offensive operations in the Pacific. With the war over they returned to HMAS Rushcutter where he was demobilised on 7 January 1946.
In 1944 while in the RAN he met and married Iris Grace Hutton of Dungog.
Alexander returned to Dungog after the war to reside with his wife and began working as a trapper, then later as a timber
cutter.
All of this would no doubt be expensive, but our Dungog Showground is one of the finest natural amphitheatres on the east coast of Australia.
That was told to me years ago by one of the Short Bros Travelling Showmen, and it would be so much better if those dangerous trees were removed, and those buildings were to be reshuffled.
Our wonderful Showground could become
He died on 23 June 2012 and his ashes were placed in the Dungog General Cemetery (Columbarium).
His wife, Iris, passed away in 2008 and is also buried in the Dungog General Cemetery.
He is survived by his children.
Alexander was entitled to the following medals: Australia
the site for all kinds of outdoor entertainments, from rock concerts to who knows what.
It may sound fanciful, but every good thing must start somewhere, and the removal of those old trees would (sad as it would be) a good way to make that start.
Regards,
Tom BOORER,
Service Medal 1939-45, 193945 Star, Pacific Star, War Medal 1939-45.
I have been unable to locate a memorial honour roll recording Alexander’s WW2 service.
Given his service was prior to his association with Dungog, he is not recorded on the Dungog and District WW2 Honour Roll.
20 years of Fibreholics
By Lisa WISEMAN
THE Clarence Town
Fibreholics are celebrating 20 years of operation in 2024.
The group of about 16 fibre artists and artisans get together for handiwork and a chat almost every Tuesday, from 10.30am to 2.30pm at the Anglican Hall, Clarence Town.
The loosely organised Fibreholics group provides support and healing therapy to its members through art and craftwork.
Members can attend every week, or less regularly, and work on anything they wishthey are also very welcome to just sit and talk.
Members share ideas and books, and discuss a wide range of subjects.
Fibreholics is open to women of all ages, from any area, with new members welcome.
“The only criteria for coming here is that you have to be able to talk,” said organiser
Katherine Pitkin. Members’ techniques and skills include knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving and sewing.
The Fibreholics are members of the NSW Spinners and Weavers Association.
Many members live in and around Clarence Town, but also come from Dungog, Rutherford, and elsewhere in the Hunter.
Fibreholics first met at the Glen William Scout Hall, but moved to Clarence Town as the group grew.
The group is affiliated with other like-minded organisations, and has hosted “The Gathering” twice in the last ten years.
The Gathering is a chance for women from the Hunter, Central Coast and Manning Valley to socialise, network and enjoy fibre-related events like fashion parades.
For more information, contact Katherine Pitkin on 0448428087 or Jill Harris on 0427372909.
Dungog.
q The grave of Able Seaman Alexander Stewart Convery. Photo: Martin Holmes.
q Fibreholics Katherine Pitkin, Gaye Moyes, Cheryl Sherlock, Jenny Drinkwater and Kris Burnet at the Anglican Hall in Clarence Town.
Dungog Show highlights
q Supreme Beef Exhibit: VC Strike exhibited by Blue Gene Cattle Co and VC Simmentals.
q Winner of Supreme Ridden Horse and Supreme Rider: Rebecca Dunn on Iama Princess.
q Grand Champion Parader Laycee Lambkin (left).
q Champion Ridden Breed: Ashcroft Prince ridden by Ivy Harris.
q Champion Large Hunter Hack: Tears He Cried ridden by Lucy Miller.
q Supreme Led Breed Exhibit of the Show: Elanore Rose owned by Jamie Lewin.
q Winner of the Camel Cup, Rob Elliott (right).
q The dogs in Dungog jump higher and higher every year.
q The Poultry Pavilion.
q Grand Champion Junior Judge Paige Brown (second from right).
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
AS CHRISTMAS draws nearer we find ever more movies looking to occupy a special place in the family living room.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever comes from director Dallas Jenkins, who is known for his work bringing the surprisingly successful series “The Chosen” to the small screen.
A filmmaker completely at ease presenting a devoutly Christian faith in his work, Jenkins is a good fit for this adaptation from a wellknown children’s book which is about people “discovering the true meaning of Christmas.”
Grace Bradley (Judy Greer) has volunteered to direct the titular Christmas play for her local church, when the Herdmen kids, six misfit siblings notorious in the
community, bully their way into the lead roles.
As they learn the nativity story for the first time in their lives, the Herdmen kids challenge the hypocrisy and prejudice of those in the community that want nothing to do with them.
This is being pitched as a family comedy with a heart, and while I am often sceptical about overtly religious films, I am intrigued by the presence of comedian Pete Holmes as Grace’s husband.
It's unlikely to become part of the “Christmas movie canon”, but if it actually brings the laughs it is probably worth taking a chance.
Eschewing the religious angle almost completely is Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point, a boisterous family comedy from Tyler Thomas Taormina.
The Balsano family have
gathered for their annual Christmas at their ancestral home, but must contend with the fact that due to their matriarch’s declining health, it may well be for the last time.
While the responsible parents want to make it an occasion to remember, several of the younger clan are determined to escape for their own celebrations with friends around town.
Taormina’s approach to films seems to be about exploring how large groups of people respond to a common event, and this film maintains that heart as the Balsano’s are a very large family.
Honestly, with the size of the cast it is simply too difficult to try and single out the few who are going to truly shine – you just need to trust in the notion of putting a lot of funny people in front of a camera.
Sentimental but not Christmas-
SPORTS
Stroud Little Athletics begins
MidCoast Council and Little Athletics NSW.
Public School lent us their resources.”
successfully.
“It was inspiring to witness our community come together, creating a positive and energetic environment that promotes the health, fitness and wellbeing of our children.”
The following week, on Monday, 28 October, similar numbers were also present, sealing the commitment by kids and families, and setting the stage for a new local frontier in kids' health and physical fitness.
Tara and her new vicepresident Leeah Holstein, were able to kickstart the sports group by contacting
“There was only physical culture and taekwondo locally for young children,” Tara said.
“We have to drive 3040 minutes away to do any activities with our children, including sports like soccer, football and futsal.
“Kids have come in to participate from Booral, Stroud Road, Dungog, Clarence Town, even Bulahdelah.
“We were fortunate enough to be able to contact an old club at Dora Creek that shut down a few years ago; they donated their old equipment to us, and on the 'Come and Try Day', Booral
themed is Memory, a delayed release from 2023 starring Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard, written and directed by Michel Franco.
Chastain plays Sylvia, a single mother and recovering alcoholic who encounters Saul (Sarsgaard) at a high school reunion she is none too keen on attending.
Things threaten to get creepy when Saul follows her home and then falls asleep outside her front door, but the discovery that he has early onset dementia opens the door to a new relationship and connection that may change both of their lives.
The film tackles themes of isolation, family, mental health and abuse, so it’s not a light-hearted affair.
The central performances have been deservedly praised and contribute to a film that will stay with you long after the credits
have finished.
Finally, what at one time might have been the biggest blockbuster of the year, Gladiator II comes to cinemas everywhere.
Ridley Scott brings this sequel to his epic film from 2000 which garnered Russell Crowe an Oscar.
This time the focus is on Lucius Veras (Paul Mescal), the boy played by Spencer Treat Clark in the original, who it turns out was Maximus’ son all along.
In a complete retread of the events of the first film, Lucius finds himself betrayed by shifty Roman rulers, loses his family, is sold into slavery and ultimately becomes a gladiator hoping to fight back against a corrupt regime.
Supporting turns from Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen and Pedro Pascal make it clear that this was an expensive exercise.
Whether it has anything fresh to bring is up for question.
Sports encompass 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m running, as well as
hurdles, shot put, discus, high-jump, and soon there will be vortex for the littlies, and javelin for the older kids.
The new Stroud Little
Athletics program runs every Monday night from 5:30pm at Stroud Showground, and relies on the parents to help out in roles including running
Paterson Golf Club
By Ramsey VANE-WOOD
SATURDAY 9November Individual
Stableford FIELD -16 members Winner
Peter Nicholson (15) 37 Points, Runner Up Joseph Jackson (19) 37 Points
BALL COMP - Michael Croucher (19) 37 Points, Christopher Burg (13) 37 Points, Michael Shanley (20) 36 Points, Robert Richardson (13) 36 Points & Timothy Kiem (11) 36 Points.
NEAREST THE PIN - 1st/10th - Peter Nicholson (15), 2nd/11th -
Joseph Jackson (19) MEMBERS DRAW - Jackpot - No.38 - $72
MEMBERS EAGLES NESTUnclaimed - 11 Balls
UPCOMING EVENTS - 16-Nov Par, 23-Nov Stableford, 30-Nov Stableford, Last Man Standing & 2BBB (7:30am shotgun start) Schedule subject to change.
each group in the events, measuring and recording results, and more, making it a community-driven event.
q Parents and guardians gave vital volunteer support to the new group. Photo: courtesy Nicole McPherson Photography
q Ready to go, the kids lined the fence at the Showground. Photo: courtesy Nicole McPherson Photography
q Peter Nicholson and Joseph Jackson.
Stroud's Little Athletes
Dungog Memorial RSL Club
MONDAY
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
SUNDAY
• Rotary Club of Dungog meet here on Monday evenings
• Lunch and Dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch specials $12.00
• Dinner from 5.30pm
Housie played every week, commencing at 11.00am Happyman Chinese Bistro - CLOSED
• Lunch and Dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch specials $12.00 Dinner from 5.30pm
• Lunch and Dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch specials $12.00
• Dinner from 5.30pm Lunch and Dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch specials $12.00 Dinner from 5.30pm Euchre played every Friday – get your names in by 7.00pm
• Raffles – 28 prizes – tickets on sale by 7.00pm, draw commences at 8.00pm
• Members Draw – drawn at a random time between 6.00pm and 10.00pm. Prize is currently at $3,800 and jackpotting by $50 twice a week if not won.
• Lunch and Dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch Specials $12.00
• Dinner from 5.30pm
• Punters competition – get your tips in early – Club opens at 10.30am
• Lunch and dinner in Happyman Chinese Bistro – Lunch Specials $12.00
• Dinner from 5.30pm
• Raffles – 28 prizes – tickets on sale by 11.30am and draw commences at 12.00 pm
Members Draw – drawn at a random time between 11.00am and 2.00pm. Prize is currently at $3,300 and jackpotting by $50 twice a week if not won.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
STROUD is now home to a large and energetic Little Athletics group, bringing sport and enjoyment to a new generation of kids from the town and surrounding areas. At the inaugural “Come and Try Day” held on Monday 21 October, 99 kids were recorded as showing up, in what proved to be an awesome event for the country town.
“The event was a huge success, made possible by the overwhelming support and dedication of our community,” Tara Davis, President of the new Stroud Little Athletics, told News Of The Area.
“A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all the volunteers, organisers and families who contributed their time and effort to make our day run
CONTINUED Page 15
TRADING
MONDAY 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM TUESDAY 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM WEDNESDAY 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM THURSDAY 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM FRIDAY 11:00 AM - LATE SATURDAY 10:30 AM - LATE SUNDAY 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM
q Nearly 100 kids turned out for some activity and exercise with the new Little Athletics group. Photo: courtesy Nicole McPherson Photography.