David Gillespie delivers valedictory speech
By Sue STEPHENSON
“I
These
Dr Gillespie
Among
Dr
By Shannon BENTON
q Dr David Gillespie delivers his valedictory speech to the Australian Parliament.
Dungog’s signal strength, enabling it to reach the entire Dungog Shire for the first time.
The improved transmission is especially vital for emergency broadcasting.
“We love them, but they’ve made reaching everyone tricky.
“Now, we’re thrilled to finally achieve full coverage.”
“Hills are one of the great challenges for radio broadcasters,” explained Radio Dungog President Nola McDonald.
Residents in rural areas are encouraged to keep radios and batteries in their emergency kits to access timely news, weather updates and alerts.
Adding to the excitement, a towermounted camera, funded by Council, offers real-time views of the region.
It will assist the Rural Fire Service in spotting fires while streaming breathtaking sunrises and sunsets for locals and visitors.
Meanwhile, in January 2025, construction will commence on Radio Dungog’s new state-ofthe-art studios at the old Guide Hall in the Dungog FROM Page 1
Showgrounds.
The facility will include both a live broadcast studio and a production space, enabling presenters to prepare and pre-record
content.
“This is an exciting time for the station,” said Nola.
“With our new aerial and studios, we’re offering more opportunities for locals to
get involved as presenters, producers, and editors.
“The station is a fabulous community as set, and we’d love to see more people join our team.”
Dungog.nsw.gov.au
q Rob Burdon from Radio Dungog and Councillor Liam Ley.
q Dungog Shire councillor Liam Ley and broadcast engineer Brock Martens fitting out the equipment hut.
q The new 23-metre tower is located near Cooreei Hill.
q Deputy Mayor Alexandria Carruthers and Committee member Dan Lyons out front of the old Guide Hall, soon to be Radio Dungog headquarters.
Dungog activist inspires change
By Shannon BENTON
DUNGOG local Michelle
Dado-Millynn, co-creator and producer of the acclaimed documentary “The Power
of Activism”, continues to inspire global audiences with her work.
The film celebrates young environmental activists, showcasing their efforts
to drive positive change in sustainability and the environment.
Michelle, a graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in design, has spent decades in visual storytelling and costume design, working with renowned Australian organisations like the ABC, Foxtel, and Sydney Theatre Company.
Alongside her creative career, she has championed environmental advocacy and animal welfare.
In 2016, Michelle introduced Boomerang Bags to Dungog, making it the
20th community in a now global movement combatting single-use plastic waste.
The initiative earned her several accolades, including the Environmental Citizen of the Year Award from Dungog Shire Council in 2019.
Next year, Michelle’s impact will extend to Australian classrooms through a free learning program for eight secondary schools.
Funded by Documentary Australia and Shark Island Foundation, the program uses The Power of Activism as a springboard for projectbased learning.
Students will design local initiatives, ranging from planting ecosystems to energy conservation programs, and create short films documenting their work.
Michelle will mentor students throughout the projects, culminating in screenings of their films in their communities.
These initiatives will be integrated into a nationwide educational resource, set to launch in 2026 in collaboration with ATOM (Australian Teachers of Screen Media).
In 2025, The Power of
David Gillespie delivers valedictory speech
FROM Page 1
can be found in full on his Facebook and Instagram pages.
In it, he thanks the people of Lyne, his wife Charlotte and their children Isabelle, Oliver and Alice, their extended family, his staff and his National Party colleagues.
He also refers to experiencing his own annus horribilis (Latin for a horrible year).
Following are selected passages.
Valedictory Speech
“For nearly twelve years I have given my best, but many of you who know me… realise that I haven't been my best during this past term. I have had my annus horribilis and I was not able to perform at my peak.
“I'll give you a quick run through: vaccine sideeffects followed by a serious bike accident - fractured ribs, sternum, vertebra, amnesia for a day or twopneumonia then pleurisy, kidney damage, and then the ignominy of injuring myself playing cricket. I now have the experience of driving a four-wheel buggy.
“It's a bittersweet
moment for me to be leaving now.
“I've worked out that you need a lot of skills to be a good MP. You are not just a legislator. You're a voice for your constituents. You're an inquisitor in committees. You're a policymaker. You're a negotiator. You're part parish priest. You've got to be an economist. You have to be an industrial advocate, a diplomat, a social media genius, a writer - and the list goes on. It has been a journey and a half, full of highs and lows.
“Lyne getting its fair share of our nation's infrastructure build has been fantastic.
“The big favourites are the two major Pacific Highway upgrades that bookend the seat of Lyne: north of Port Macquarie to Kempsey delivered in the first term and now the Hunter River crossing. But there is still unfinished business. There are six highway overpass interchanges and several realignments that will need to be completed for it to turn into a full freeway.
“At the southern end of the electorate, we have the big one: the Newcastle Airport. We were able to
secure two grants totalling $130 million. It will be the best-value international airport in the country, not just for the 750,000 people in the Hunter but also for all the people in the Mid North Coast region, who will all of a sudden have their own international airport.
“As a country MP, you see a lot of community and sporting infrastructure and arts funding totally skewed and massive amounts going into capital cities. So I worked really hard to develop sporting facilities in my electorate of Lyne. New surf club upgrades are scattered across the electorate… and there were new grandstands, female change facilities and oval upgrades in Maitland, Gloucester and Karuah.
“We were able to secure two funding grants to make… the Taree Universities Campus [a reality]. So Manning Valley, Gloucester, Forster-Tuncurry and the region now have access to a multi-university, community owned facility in a permanent campus for the next 25 years.
“During this time in parliament, we've had some major challenges. We had the devastating, record-breaking
2019 fires after years of really extreme drought. Then a year later we went to the other extreme and had the most massive floods since the 1960s.
“I had a few hiccups and a challenge in 2016. They took away Port Macquarie… but I gained something better. [I] inherited all the territory down to the Hunter across to Hawks Nest. Just about every tourism and primary industry is now encapsulated in Lyne, plus I picked up the mighty Hunter River and Maitland and all that Hunter history
and many service industries and even more people in the mining industry.
On the coast, there were two coalmines. I've got one left, but there are about 20,000 people who work because of the Hunter coalfired power stations or the coalmines, and they all live in the beautiful part of Lyne.
But there are opponents and obstacles everywhere, coming for all these primary industries. They are all at threat with the net zero agenda. We have a huge problem because these are
Activism will join FanForce, a platform that uses the power of social media to bring films audiences want to see into local cinemas.
This global tour will engage communities worldwide, spreading the message of proactive change.
Dungog remains at the heart of Michelle’s work.
“I am proud to tell the continually growing story of our community’s wonderful work for positive, proactive change for people and the planet,” she said. Visit thepowerofactivism. com for more information.
all the industries that make us our money. We won't have an energy system, if we don't have a base load.
“My best thing ever, and probably my most substantial non-legislative role, is setting up the Parliamentary Friends of Nuclear Industries. The idea that any radiation is bad is a totally debunked theory.
“The urgent necessity for this nation now is that we've still got an electricity system that works - just. But where we are really thin is on liquid fuel security. We have got to, as President Trump said, 'drill, baby, drill', because we need to get liquid fuel security in this country.”
q The outgoing Member for Lyne is congratulated by fellow MPs.
q Michelle Dado-Millynn.
By Shannon BENTON
THE Dungog Wholefood
Co-op unveiled its brandnew shopfront to the public on Friday, 29 November, marking a milestone for the beloved local hub.
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Mayor Digby Rayward officially opened the new space, cutting the ribbon to applause from enthusiastic supporters.
The event was a joyous celebration of community spirit, complete with great food and plenty of cheer.
“Come and have a look at our exciting new stock and find your old favourites,” said Co-op cofounder Jimmy Kingston.
“Here’s to a wonderful new chapter for the Dungog Wholefood Coop.”
The reopening was
made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of the Co-op’s dedicated team of volunteers.
Over the past weeks, they’ve been fundraising, coordinating, and tackling everything from IT setup to furniture moving, smoothie bar training, and shelf-stocking - a true testament to the power of community collaboration.
The Dungog Wholefood Co-op is eager to welcome locals and visitors alike into their vibrant new space at 205 Dowling Street, Dungog.
Towers opens first solo art show
By Lisa WISEMAN
“ECKOS”, the first solo exhibition by Clarence Town artist Bec Towers, opened on Friday evening at the town’s Courthouse Museum.
The opening was well attended, with many Clarence Town residents and visitors enjoying the show.
Eckos gave attendees a joyful insight into the artist and her life, with artworks grouped into the four seasons - Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring.
Guests were invited to take a stroll through the exhibition, which was hung to create a meandering path through the space.
This path was meant to immerse viewers in the artist’s memories and feelings for seasons in times and places past.
Recurring subjects included landscapes, cows, clouds, dogs, beach and pool scenes and
octopuses.
Some of the museum’s regular exhibits remained in place, so selected exhibition paintings were thoughtfully tucked in amongst the antiques.
Most of the 50-plus works were vivid acrylic paintings on canvas.
Bec included a wide
array of media and techniques, such as sculptural works and colourful painted tote bags.
Sales were already outstripping the artist’s expectations on the opening night, with 16 paintings sold at the opening, and another
eight on the first day of the exhibition.
She also received at least eight commissions as a direct result of the show.
The Courthouse verandah was packed as Bec gave her opening speech.
“I’m so amazed… how wonderful indeed,” she said. She also acknowledged assistance from her family and friends and sponsorship from a number of local businesses.
Arts Upper Hunter and Create NSW supported the exhibition with a microgrant.
q Artist Bec Towers welcomed guests to the exhibition.
q Bruce Read and Jimmy Kingston make paella.
q Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward cuts the ribbon on the new Dungog Wholefood Co-op.
q Inside the new premises on Friday night. q The new Co-op shopfront.
Power plants warning as mass blackout scare loses heat
By Alex MITCHELL and BRISSENDEN, AAP
SWELTERING workers and residents were spared mass blackouts after being asked to go easy on airconditioning and turn off lights and appliances during a heatwave.
The energy regulator forecasted a shortfall in electricity supplies in NSW between 3.30pm and 5pm on Wednesday, 25 November, brought on by high demand and outages at key coal-fired power plants.
Hundreds of thousands of public servants across
the state were asked to lift thermostat settings on airconditioners and take other energy-saving measures.
But by 6pm the energy warnings were downgraded as a cool front moved in and mass blackouts were avoided.
The risk of power supply shortage was significantly
reduced on Wednesday afternoon, Energy Minister Penny
"We thank the households, business and employees who have taken the steps to reduce demand on the system this evening," she said.
Major energy users such
as water providers and the City of Sydney lowered their power demands between 3pm and 8pm, shifting electricity usage outside the peak window.
Earlier, Ms Sharpe stressed if people needed to use power they should do so.
"But what we are trying to do is reduce demand across the system by large energy users, by the government as well, and we now ask households and businesses to see what they can do… a lot of small activities actually really help demand across the network," she said.
The Australian Energy Market Operator's declaration urged industry to generate as much power as possible and restore all available powerlines across the grid to meet rocketing demand.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued severe heatwave warnings for large swathes of the NSW coast, including the Sydney metropolitan area, the Hunter region and the south coast.
Warnings were also in place for parts of ACT and Queensland, including an extreme heatwave for Australia's far-north tip.
Four coal-plant units are offline in NSW for maintenance before the summer peak in demand.
But climate change had extended the hot season,
which should prompt a rethink on when maintenance takes place while renewable energy sources were rolled out, Premier Chris Minns said.
"Increasingly, you'll see heatwave conditions earlier and earlier in the year and obviously we have to manage that, but at the same time, we're seeing more solar come on and more battery technology that can fill the gap," he said.
Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen earlier insisted there was enough electricity in reserve to get through the day, adding the system was acting as intended.
Sydney's city centre recorded a peak temperature of nearly 33C late on Wednesday morning, while by early afternoon the mercury had risen to nearly 39C across a swathe of suburbs from the southwest to northwest.
Western Sydney peak temperature forecasts were more than 10C above November average maximums, weather bureau senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury said.
"While anomalously high, these temperatures are not expected to break any records (but) it's more the duration of the warm conditions, including those warm nights, that is more significant," she said.
Sharpe said.
q A cool change helped NSW avoid power blackouts as hot conditions lifted power demand. Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Australia urged to follow Middle East on nuclear power
By Jennifer DUDLEYNICHOLSON, AAP
NUCLEAR power reactors
could be operating in Australia within 10 to 12 years, an inquiry has heard, if the government follows the example of the United Arab Emirates rather than Europe.
Two international nuclear consultants laid out that timetable at the Nuclear Power Generation inquiry in Canberra last Thursday, saying Australia's existing nuclear safety authority could prepare laws to allow the technology within three years.
But their account contradicted earlier evidence from the Australian Energy Regulator, which warned it could take as long as 10 years just to create a regulatory framework for the technology.
The inquiry, in its 10th public hearing, was called in October after coalition leader Peter Dutton announced plans to establish nuclear power plants in seven Australian locations if the party won the next federal election.
But details of a switch to nuclear power generation remained unclear, including a timeline for nuclear plant development, the cost to establish facilities, and how many would be required to meet Australia's energy needs.
Nuclear consultant Ian Grant told the committee Australia could have plants established within 10 to 12 years of making a clear decision about its energy future.
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) already had a legal framework in place
the nation could update and use, Mr Grant said, shortening the time for a nuclear rollout.
"We submit it would be feasible for ARPANSA to be ready to review and initiate... a formal construction licence application in less than three years from the day of a policy announcement," he said.
"A nuclear power plant based on proven designs, in our opinion, could be operational within 10 to 12 years of a government policy decision."
The timeline, he said, was based on his experience in the United Arab Emirates, which had established its first nuclear power plant in 2020 after announcing plans in 2008.
Despite questions about differences in workplace safety standards between the
two countries, Mr Grant said Australia should follow the UAE example rather than look to Europe or Britain.
"I would say the keys to rapid progress in the UAE were, first, clear government policy leadership combined with very effective program management and, most importantly, the selection of a supplier who was already experienced," he said.
"Some of the wellpublicised delays that have taken place in plants in Europe have really been due to the fact that they've been started with incomplete designs, temporary constructions organisations put together with no prior experience, and rather weak project management."
Energy production from UK's Hinkley
EMERGENCY services came to the aid of hikers in the Barrington Tops National Park over the weekend.
About 1am on Sunday 1 December, a Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to five hikers who activated an emergency locating beacon in the National Park.
The helicopter crew located the group and passed on the exact coordinates to emergency services who found the group and walked them to safety early this morning.
The group was assessed by NSW Ambulance rescue paramedics but did not require further treatment.
Point C nuclear reactor, for example, has been delayed from 2017 to as late as 2031, and Finland's Olkiluoto reactor began operating last year, 14 years after its intended launch date.
The latest nuclear projections contradict earlier statements at the inquiry from Australian Energy Regulator Claire Savage, who told MPs nuclear guidelines could be ready within 12 to 18 months and it could take "eight to 10 years for a regulatory framework".
Construction on a nuclear power plant, she said, could not begin until the framework had been established, potentially pushing out development to 2047 when existing coal-fired power stations would be beyond their working lives.
LOCAL volunteer community groups are being encouraged to apply for funding under the Volunteer Grants Program 2024-25.
The Volunteer Grants program is part of the Australian Government’s commitment to assist volunteers and encourage volunteering.
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said Volunteer Grants support the work of local community organisations by reducing barriers for volunteers and increasing participation in volunteering.
“Grants can be used to purchase communication or insurance items and/or purchase items or services to assist volunteers or volunteer-run activities that support the well-being and development of children,” Dr Gillespie said.
“This year, eligible not-for-profit community organisations may apply for grants between $1,000 to $5,000.”
The total number of organisations offered funding in each electorate is capped making the program highly contested.
Assessments and funding decisions will be undertaken by the Department of Social Services.
“I encourage organisations to read the grant guidelines, and if eligible, submit an ‘Expression of Interest’ form to my office by the closing date of Friday 27 December,” Dr Gillespie said.
q A consultant says Australia should look to the Middle East for a model of getting nuclear power up quickly. Photo: AP PHOTO.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
LUCA
TEN, 7.30pm
This adorable addition from Pixar about the power of friendship is sure to become a family favourite. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) is a sea monster with the ability to transform into a human on land. When he meets fellow monster Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer), who lives on the surface, Luca is emboldened to step out of the water and into the bright Italian city of Portorosso. As the pair explore the world together, they discover a love of pasta, cycling and best of all: Vespas! Set on the Italian Riviera, it’s a sumptuous visual feast that will draw viewers in to its magical world.
FRIDAY,
December 6
Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)
MONDAY
FIVE BEDROOMS
TEN, 9.30pm
Life, love and work are becoming more complicated than ever for the close-knit co-owners as this stellar Aussie dramedy inches closer to its conclusion. Doctor Harry (Roy Joseph) is usually the voice of reason for his housemates, but in “Seventy-Two Hours” he finds himself in need of their help after an indiscretion comes to light. Lawyer Liz (Kat Stewart) jumps in with a solution, but it requires both a little “creative” testimony from Anton (Matthew Backer) and keeping Harry’s mum Manju (Kumud Merani) at arm’s length. Meanwhile, Ben (Stephen Peacocke) and Heather (Doris Younane) intervene when Ainsley (Katie Robertson, pictured) hurts Simmo’s (Johnny Carr) feelings.
Exploring Northern Ireland. (PGl, R) 3.10 Dishing It Up. (PGls, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30
Rage. (PG) 6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. (Ma, R)
8.30 Nicole Kidman, Eyes Wide Open. (Malns, R) 9.35 Kennedy. 10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Elvira. (PGa)
12.30 The Wall: The Orchard. (Malsv, R)
2.05 Employable Me (UK) (PGal, R)
3.10 Love Your Home And Garden With Alan Titchmarsh. (PGa, 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.
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs.
TUESDAY
CHRISTMAS
WITH AUSTRALIAN WOMEN’S WEEKLY
TEN, 7.30pm
Get set to “sleigh” this Christmas with a little help from The ’s Sarah Harris (pictured) and the talented team at The Australian Women’s Weekly An annual guide to surviving the silly season in style, there’s a wealth of tips on food, fashion and creating Yuletide magic in your own home. Narelda Jacobs catches up with Olympic gold medallist Noemie Fox and her family ahead of the holidays, while The Weekly’s food director Fran Abdallaoui is in fine company with Warren Mendes, Kirsten Tibballs and MasterChef faves Poh Ling Yeow, Julie Goodwin and Khanh Ong in the kitchen, with tasty tricks and hacks galore.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.
7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the Second Test Match between Australia and India.
8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Evening session.
10.30 The Boy From Macksville. (Ml) Celebrates the career of Phillip Hughes.
12.00 GetOn Extra.
12.30 Taken. (Mav, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (Return) Hosted by Shelley Craft.
8.30 MOVIE: The Accountant. (2016, MA15+alv, R) A maths genius who works as an accountant for high-rolling criminals is pursued by authorities. Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick.
11.00 MOVIE: Triple 9. (2016, MA15+lv, R)
1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards Summer. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Luca. (2021, G) On the Italian Riviera, a young boy experiences an unforgettable summer with a new best friend. Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer. 9.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) A big class-action case against the prison system hits close to home. Matty plays matchmaker with Sarah and a girl from IT.
10.30 10’s Late News.
10.55 The Project. (R)
SATURDAY, December 7
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG, R) 1.15 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. (Ml, R) 1.55 Question Everything. (R) 2.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.15 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.45 Solar System With Brian Cox. (R) 4.45 Headliners. (PG, R) 5.35 Landline. (Final, R)
Shetland. (Mlv, R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.00 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix 6. H’lights. 4.25 The Maestro & The European Pop Orchestra. (Premiere) 5.35 Weeks Of War. (PGav, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces.
8.25 The Jury: Death On The Staircase. (M, R)
9.30 The Great House Revival. 10.30 So Long, Marianne. (Mals) 11.25 Paris Paris. (PGl, R)
11.55 All Those Things We Never Said. (Ms, R)
2.20 Employable Me (UK) (PGa, R)
3.25 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R)
4.20 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature.
Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session.
7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the Second Test Match between Australia and India. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 10.30 Heroes And Legends: Hall Of Fame. (PGl) The Sport Australia Hall of Fame special.
12.00 Taken. (Mav, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Bohemian Rhapsody. (2018, Ml, R) Charts the life of Freddie Mercury. Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton.
10.20 My Life As A Rolling Stone: Keith Richards. (Madl, R)
11.35 MOVIE: Truth. (2015, Ml, R) Cate Blanchett.
1.35 Drive Safer. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGlm, R) A surfer suffers a serious fin chop. Will attempts to run for 48 hours with no sleep. 7.00 Soccer. Women’s international friendly. Australia v Chinese Taipei. 10.15 MOVIE: Kate & Leopold. (2001, PGhls, R) A New York City advertising executive meets a man who has been mysteriously transported from the 19th century. Meg Ryan, Hugh Jackman. 12.45 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A head-on collision leaves a driver trapped. 1.45 Ambulance
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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. 8.00 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Teen Titans Go! 10.40 Late Programs.
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
SUNDAY, December 8
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat: Christmas Special. (R) 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.45 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 3.15 Long Lost Family: What
7.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now.
8.00 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. (Ml)
8.40 Love Me. (Ml)
9.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 11.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R)
You Can’t Ask That. (Mals, R)
New Leash On Life. (R)
Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.05 Australia Remastered: Forces Of Nature. (R)
4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales. (PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.00 MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Pfffirates. 6.55 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 7.00 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.15 Bluey Minisodes. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Get Santa. (2014, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Doctor Who. 11.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Young Girls Of Rochefort. (1967, PG, French) 11.20 Misery. (1990) 1.20pm Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, French) 3.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.55 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964,
6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00
Cops:
(2018,
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Eco Show. (R) 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Australia With Julia Bradbury. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Great Stink Of 1858. (PG)
9.20 Jonathan Ross’ Myths And Legends. (PGa, R)
10.15 Curse Of The Ancients. (PG, R)
11.10 Looby. (Mln, R)
12.35 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (PG, R)
1.30 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R)
2.20 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (R)
3.15 Heritage Rescue. (R)
4.55 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.40 Mysteries From Above. 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 World’s Most Dangerous Airports. 9.35 WWE Legends. (Return) 11.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 2. 2.00 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Cricket. Second
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 3. Late afternoon session. 7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 3. Evening session. 10.30 7NEWS Spotlight. (M, R) 11.30 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) 12.00 Miniseries: Patrick Melrose. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tsunami: 20 Years On. (PG) Presented by Ray Martin.
9.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv) Anais investigates when a flamboyant pyrotechnician gets more bang for his buck than he expects.
11.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (Mv) A night market takes a twist.
1.00 Drive TV. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
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MONDAY, December 9
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 Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.50 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.20 Poh’s Kitchen. 9.45 Doctor Who. 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Pretty Woman: A Fairytale In Hollywood.
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.05 Madame Tussauds: The Full Wax. (Mav, R)
11.05 SBS News. 11.35 Dead Mountain: The Dyatlov Pass Incident. (Mahlv) 1.25 Greatest Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 2.20 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.10 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (R) 4.05 Heritage Rescue. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 4. Late afternoon session. 7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day’s play. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 4. Evening session. 10.30 Murder In A Small Town. (Mav) Cassandra’s childhood friend investigates. 11.30 Armed And Dangerous: Stickups. (Mav, R)
12.45 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT. (Mdl, R) 8.30 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mlv, R) 9.40 A Killer Makes A Call. (Mav) 10.40 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv) 11.30 First On Scene. (Mad)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
GolfBarons. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping.
TUESDAY, December 10
8.00 Headliners. (PG) 8.55 Solar System With Brian Cox.
Believing In Australia. (PGa, R) 10.50 News. 11.05 The Business. (R) 11.20 The Kingdom: The World’s Most Powerful Prince. (Final, Ma, R) 12.20 Our Dementia Choir Sings Again. (Final, PG, R) 1.25 Grand Designs: The Streets. (R) 2.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.40 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs.
Of
6am Morning
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.
8.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
9.40 Greatest Train Journeys From Above. (R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv)
12.55 Miniseries: Safe Home. (Mal, R)
2.50 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R)
3.40 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
Programs. 7.00 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012) 9.00 Living. (2022, PG) 10.55 Barefoot In The Park. (1967, PG) 12.55pm Another World. (2021, M, French) 2.40 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 4.20 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 6.00 RBG. (2018, PG) 7.50 Aspromonte: Land Of The Forgotten. (2019, M, Italian) 9.30 Margrete: Queen Of The North. (2021, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs. 6am RBG. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.50 Stolen Kisses. (1968, PG, French) 8.30 My Best Friend’s Wedding. (2016, PG, Mandarin) 10.15 La Jauria. (2022, M, Spanish) 11.50 Aftersun. (2022, M) 1.40pm The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012) 3.40 Leave No Trace. (2018, PG) 5.45 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 7.30 Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 9.30 Corsage. (2022, M) 11.40 Late Programs.
MOVIES (32)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 5. Late afternoon session. 7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day’s play.
8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 5. Evening session.
10.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG)
11.00 Highway Cops. (PGl)
11.30 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R)
12.30 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R) 1.30 Your Money & Your Life. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
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WEDNESDAY, December 11
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.20 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGl, R) 11.10 Bridges That Built London. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Lost For Words. (PG, R) 3.00 Dishing It Up. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Austn Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGln) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 IKEA: How Do They Really Do It? (Ml, R)
8.30 Pan Am: Rise And Fall Of
An Aviation Icon. (PG, R)
9.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Maxima. (Mls)
11.50 Pagan Peak. (Malsv, R)
2.00 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 3.00 Employable Me (USA) (Mal, R)
3.45 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 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 Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Doctor Who. 9.50 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.15 Horrible Histories. 10.35 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Sweet Navidad. (2021, PGa) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 3. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 3.
10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. (Return) A deep dive into the world of cricket. 11.15 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.
12.15 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+av) Harry investigates a spate of drownings.
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGam)
8.30 Budget Battlers. (PGl)
9.40 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (PGl)
10.40 Millionaire Holiday Home Swap. (PG)
11.40 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Mav)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop. (R) 3.30 World Aquatics Championships. Budapest 2024. Day 2. Finals. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize.
6.30 The Project. 7.30 Shark Tank. (Final, PGa) A mum pitches her solution to untangling kids’ hair. 8.40 NCIS. (Mv) 9.40 NCIS: Origins. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Leave No
Trace. Continued. (2018, PG) 7.55 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 10.00 Aspromonte: Land Of The Forgotten. (2019, M, Italian) 11.45 20th Century Women. (2016, M) 1.55pm RBG. (2018, PG) 3.45 My Best Friend’s Wedding. (2016, PG, Mandarin) 5.25 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 7.30 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 9.55 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 11.55 Emily. (2022, M) 2.20am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, December 12
Grand Designs Aust. (PG, R) 1.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.30 Take 5. (PG, R) 3.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 3.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Designs Australia. (Final, PG)
9.00 Fake Or Fortune? (Return)
10.00 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa)
10.45 ABC Late News.
11.00 The Business. (Final, R)
11.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R)
12.05 Killing Eve. (MA15+v, R) 12.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.30 AI vs Human: The Creativity Experiment. (R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
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 Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.05 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.35 Doctor Who. 10.20 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.20 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGadlv, R) 11.10 The Bridges That Built London. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 2.15 Lost For Words. (PG, R) 3.25 The Cook Up. (R) 3.55 Austn Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGa) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Gods Of Tennis. (Ml, R)
9.30 Miniseries: Steeltown Murders. (Mal)
10.40 SBS News. 11.10 DNA. (Return, MA15+a)
12.05 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Malv, R) 1.00 Miniseries: The Night Logan Woke Up. (MA15+ns, R) 2.00 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.55 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.45 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
12.30 Hudson & Rex. 2.10 Vegan Vigilantes. 2.25 Queer Sports. 3.20 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Gremlins. (1984, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 12.40am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Bamay. 10.35 It’s Suppertime! 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Who Gets To Stay In Australia? 1.40 The Swiping Game. 2.00 Planet A. 2.50 Earthworks. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Holy Marvels With Dennis Quaid. 10.05 The Last Overland: Singapore To London. 11.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The
Bookshop. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.05 The Wild Duck. (1983, PG) 8.55 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 10.45 Corsage. (2022, M) 12.50pm Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 5.25 I Capture The Castle. (2003, PG) 7.30 Risky Business. (1983, M) 9.25 The Lost King. (2022, M) 11.25 Dead Man Down. (2013, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Candy Coated Christmas. (2021, PGa, R) 1.45
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PGa, R) 8.30 MOVIE: In The Line Of Fire. (1993, Mlv, R) A US Secret Service agent is taunted by a killer. Clint Eastwood, John Malkovich.
11.10 Pam & Tommy. (MA15+lns)
12.10 Criminal Confessions. (Malv, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7MATE (64) 7MATE (64)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
Great Getaways. (PG)
Emergency. (Mm)
A+E After Dark. (Mlm) 10.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mm, R) 11.25 Resident Alien. (Mav)
Or No Deal. (R)
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& Heifers 80 Cows & Calves Further entries still invited
TRAPPEL
Neville Clarence John Passed away peacefully 27th November 2024 Late of Dungog Aged 80 years
Loved Husband of Michele. Dearest Father & Father-in-Law of Kathleen, Lisa & Mark, Nicole & Peter, Simone & Damian. Much Loved Grandfather & Great Grandfather. Loved member of the extended Trappel & Marquet Families.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in St Mary’s Catholic Church, Dungog THURSDAY (5.12.2024) at 11.30 am.
3pm 08/12/24
Hawley Funerals 02 49921572
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Retreat
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
MY husband's hearing is getting progressively worse and yet he refuses to get hearing aids fitted. How can I encourage him to do so?
Rowena K.
Dear Rowena,
I HEAR you. A hearing specialist said to me recently that people don't get hearing aids for themselves, they get them for family members who have contended for years with the television volume at an unbearable level, the constant need to repeat every sentence five times, and the
sometimes hilarious but often frustrating situations when those hard of hearing have misheard what you are trying to say.
Tolstoy said, historians are like deaf people who go on answering questions that no one has asked them.
I've never thought of my husband as an historian, but he comes out with all sorts of gems due to being deaf in one ear (the other ear isn't doing so well either).
Last night I said, “Would you like a glass of wine or is it for a special occasion?”
He thought I said “broccoli”.
Out of the entire sentence, that was the only word he heard.
Truly mind boggling.
We have one friend who speaks in a low tone that he can hear with absolute clarity.
Since we are lucky to see this friend twice a year, I'm not sure what help this is.
“I can hear Linda perfectly,” he
tells me (often).
“Bully for Linda,” I reply, which he probably mishears as “put it on Tinder”.
There is, I think, a bit of vanity involved with hearing aids, but they are now so discreet that no one except the wearer would know they are there.
Even with a hearing aid, there can be issues. My dad has hearing aids, but it is amazing how many times he still can't hear, because he doesn't turn them on.
He tells me he's trying to conserve the batteries.
I think conserving our sanity is more important.
If your husband is being as stubborn as a hearing-impaired mule, perhaps show him how frustrating it is by wearing noise-cancelling headphones for a few days.
When his questions fall (literally) on deaf ears, he may feel compelled to act.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp 025
Lest We Forget: George Herbert Burges
By Martin HOLMES CSM
THIS story is part of a series about military veterans laid to rest at Dungog General Cemetery by Dungog RSL sub-Branch Vice-President Martin Holmes.
NX141819 PTE George Herbert Burges – WW2 (AIF)
GEORGE was born at Dungog in 1916 to parents Samuel and Eva Burges.
At age 24 he was mobilised and enlisted in the Militia in May 1941 for war time service.
At the time George was a single man and although a carpenter he was working as a labourer on the sewerage installation at Dungog.
He was living with his mother and sister at Windeyer Street, Dungog as his father had died in 1939.
On enlistment he served in a part-time capacity with the 18th Battalion (Militia unit) based in Sydney, undertaking garrison duties in NSW.
In February 1942 he transferred to the 13th Battalion (Militia) and began full-time war service.
The 13th Battalion was based in Maitland and undertook garrison duties in the Hunter region.
In December he volunteered for service in the AIF and was transferred back to the 18th Battalion undertaking further garrison duties in Sydney and remained with the unit
throughout 1943.
In January 1944, he was transferred to the 17th Australian Infantry Battalion (AIB) and then transferred to the 27th AIB in March, where
he remained until the end of the war.
It was with the 27th AIB where George undertook overseas service.
In May 1944 the unit
embarked from Townsville to Lae (New Guinea) for further jungle training and garrison duties.
In September the unit embarked for Green Island (Solomon Islands) to relieve US forces guarding the airfield and conduct surveillance operations in the surrounding islands.
In March 1945, the unit was deployed onto Bougainville relieving the 55/53rd Battalion and commenced combat operations.
George as part of the 27th AIB conducted combat operations and patrolling; fighting the Japanese across Bougainville until the war ceased on 15 August 1945.
In November, he embarked from Torokina
(Bougainville) for Brisbane.
On 20 December 1945 he was discharged from the Army and returned to civilian life.
George returned to Dungog to live with his mother and sister in Windeyer Street.
He never married and died in Dungog on 22 November 1994 and was buried in the Dungog General Cemetery (Anglican Section).
George was entitled to the following medals: War Medal 1939-45, Australia Service Medal 1939-1945, The Pacific Star, and the War Service Badge.
George is recorded on the 1939 Dungog & District Honour Roll 1945, which is hung in the Dungog RSL Memorial Club foyer.
Overhaul pledge for 'shocking' failures in foster care
By Samantha LOCK, AAP
MAJOR reform has been promised to fix a $2 billion out-of-home care system after a review found it fails to meet the needs of vulnerable children or show that taxpayer funds are being properly spent.
The analysis of NSW's outsourced foster-care system included an investigation into how funds were being used by nongovernment providers.
It found it was often not possible to work out if public funds were being used to meaningfully support vulnerable children and young people.
The report, presented to the state government in October and released on Monday, described NSW's out-of-home care system as not fit for purpose and "characterised by a profound lack of accountability and ineffective oversight".
The review also found poor data management and the failure to share crucial information about children in care created unnecessary administrative burdens and inconsistent delivery of services.
The $2 billion system, overseen by the Department of Communities and Justice, was described as "overly complex, fragmented and slow to respond in the best interests of children and young people".
"We could not follow the dollar on the actual delivery of services to children and young people," the authors said.
The review was led by former NSW Police assistant commissioner Gelina Talbot and a former senior departmental official. They made 13 recommendations, including greater financial transparency between providers and foster
carers as well as boosting accountability with more regular audits.
Carers should also expect more timely access to funding and support services.
Premier Chris Minns said the report was sobering to read.
"In out-of-home care, we're dealing with the most vulnerable people in our community, those that are in a desperate situation and need the very best care," he said.
Families and Communities Minister Kate Washington said the report laid out a roadmap to rebuild accountability and oversight in the system.
"It's shocking that some out-of-home care providers are failing to provide basic supports to children, despite being paid hundreds of thousands, and in some cases, millions, of taxpayer dollars to do so," she said.
The NSW government will review the report's findings and recommendations before formally responding within months.
It moved to ban socalled "alternative care" arrangements from February, putting an end to the use of unaccredited emergency accommodation such as hotels and motels to
house children at a cost of up to $2 million per person each year.
Public Service Association general secretary Stewart Little said the child-protection system needed to be returned to state hands.
"Kids deserve to be in family-like environments, like with foster parents,
not placed with for-profit entities which spend their whole time trying to wring as much cash as they can out of each child," he said.
Hundreds of child protection workers walked off the job in May calling for NSW to recruit an additional 500 staff to help fix the embattled sector.
Entries open for art award
THE Anderson Art Award, organised by Tea Gardens’ Galleries in the Gardens, is now open for entries.
Entries are invited from artists and sculptors from all over New South Wales.
First prize awards of $4,000 are offered in two categories as well as two highly commended ($1,000) awards.
There is a twodimensional (2D) category for paintings, drawings or prints on paper or canvas and a three-dimensional (3D) category for ceramic, metal, wood or other
material sculptures.
Entries should be submitted on a 2D or 3D entry form and must include quality photographs of the entry.
Entries must be received online by 5pm on 27 March 2025.
“Our curatorial committee will select 150 artworks for final judging and display in The Gallery from the entries received, using the photographs supplied,” said Anderson Art Award coordinator Ian Morphett.
Selected artists will be asked to deliver their artworks to The Gallery by 4pm on 4 April.
The finally selected entries will be judged by eminent independent experts and announced at an opening event on Saturday 12 April 2025.
The Anderson Art Award acknowledges the magnificent contributions that locals Rob and Lee Anderson have made to the arts on the Myall Coast over many years.
“Their most significant [contribution] has been establishing ‘The Gallery’ on the Tea Gardens waterfront,” said Mr Morphett.
“The Andersons
purchased the historic cottage at 81 Marine Drive in 2017 and offered it to Galleries in the Gardens to operate as an art gallery.
“The Gallery has been hugely successful generating high visitation rates and excellent sales.
“Galleries in the Gardens Inc is a not-forprofit cooperative of more than 50 local artists.”
Competition details and entry forms can be found at www. galleriesinthegardens. com.au/ andersonartaward
q The grave of George Herbert Burges. Photo: Martin Holmes.
q Families and Communities Minister Kate Washington says the report will help rebuild the care system. Photo. Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
q Crowds at the Anderson Art Award opening event in 2023.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
TO avoid filling a whole page with the veritable avalanche of films being released, this week we present “Cinema in a Sentence”.
Piece By Piece is a biopic of superstar singer/songwriter Pharell Williams featuring interviews with Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg… entirely animatedin LEGO.
Bad Genius is a remake of the 2017 Thai film of the same name, based on the true story of a promising scholarship student at a prestigious prep school who develops a system to help her wealthy peers cheat on exams for a fee.
Heir to the action schlock throne Frank Grillo stars in action/horror schlock Werewolves where he prepares to defend his family on a night when half the world’s population are going to turn into… you probably figured it out.
Cate Blanchett, Charles Dance, Roy Dupuis, Denis Ménochet, Nikki AmukaBird, Rolando Ravello,
Takehiro Hira, Zlatko Burić, and Alicia Vikander star alongside a giant brain as the abandoned G7 World Leaders fighting to survive an absurd apocalypse in Rumours
From the foreign film market comes My Favourite Cake, a tale about an elderly Iranian widow who finds love again but must contend with the reality of living in a country where she does not have the freedom she desires.
Solo Levelling –ReAwakening is a feature film continuation of a Korean animated series that focuses on a monsterfighting warrior who seems to actually be part of a computer gamepossibly.
Out from France is Out of Season, a romantic comedy about two middleaged creatives who attempt to reignite a romance they both abandoned decades ago.
Finally comes Ghost Cat Anzu, an animated feature from Japan that adapts a comic series about an anthropomorphic cat who meets a young girl and attempts to make her life better.
The Bushwackers return to Dungog
By Shannon BENTON
ONE of Australia’s most beloved folk and country bands, The Bushwackers return to the Royal Hotel Dungog on Saturday, 7 December.
Led by the dynamic duo of Dobe Newton and Roger
Corbett, the band has become a cornerstone of Australian music, weaving humour, stories, and passion into unforgettable performances that celebrate the nation’s cultural heritage.
Established in 1971, The Bushwackers continue to take their unique Australiana
brand of music through the country and around the world, exciting crowds with their signature foot-stomping tunes and heartfelt lyrics.
Ben Steer, booking agent at The Royal Hotel, expressed his excitement to bring the band to town.
“I’ve known this band
right from the early days,” Ben said.
“How lucky are we here in Dungog that they are still gracing stages like the Royal Hotel?
“‘The Bushies’ are a truly amazing part of the Australian musical landscape.”
SPORTS
Lions countdown begins Paterson Golf Club
and two losses, would have answered their doubters, winger Andrew Kellaway, while admitting that the narrow loss to the Irish had really hurt, declared: "I certainly hope so.
"Look, people will always say what they want to say, and that's the beauty of our game, people's opinions are what make it tick. But the cool part for us is that we get to go out and, hopefully, prove these people wrong.
"And maybe we did, maybe we didn't - but we certainly feel like we're going in the right direction. We're really proud of our group and where we're heading into a really big year.
"Can't wait for the Lions tour. It's now a bit like counting down the days, even if we've obviously still got a little bit to get through."
Indeed, this promises to be a key period.
Schmidt is due to make a key announcement later this month about whether
he'll stay on after the Lions' series in July and August, and then he'll have to watch the Super Rugby season unfold with as much trepidation as anticipation.
"The first flight leaves for Australia at 5am Sunday, so we haven't got a lot of time together," explained Schmidt on Saturday night after the 13th and final Test of the Wallabies' topsy-turvy year that featured six wins and seven losses.
"We'll get together for a couple of days from January 8 to 10, and that will allow us to sign off on this year and plot our way ahead, then we'll get together a week or two before the Lions arrive.
"But I do think we've built enough confidence and cohesion this year that we can pick it up again in late June, early July next year. It's a challenge - but it's a great challenge."
Farrell, who's now on a sabbatical from coaching Ireland to take the Lions' reins, quickly laughed off the idea that he'll get any break.
"It sounds like I'm going
on holiday - that's not the case, I can guarantee you that!" smiled the Englishman, who'll be putting a team together that could feature two Australians, Scotland's Sione Tuipulotu and Ireland's Mack Hansen.
One thing he's sure about, though, is that the Wallabies' side being honed by his old boss Schmidt is beginning to look the part.
"I don't need a clear sense of how formidable Australia might be. I know Joe. I know what he brings and you saw it in spades out there.
"Seeing their development over the last six months, the biggest thing for me is you're seeing the style of player coming to fruition, and the athletes they've got, they're certainly looking more cohesive, fitter, etc - and that's only going to continue.
"I think he's now got a nice picture, hasn't he, with everyone that he's used over over this season, and that's a lot. They're going to be looking forward to next season."
By Ramsey VANE-WOOD
SATURDAY 30th November
Individual Stableford, Last Man Standing & 2BBB FIELD | 31 members & 4 visitors.
LAST MAN STANDING
| Winner Timothy Kiem (10) Play-Off Winner, Runner Up Greg Scott (7) - Eliminated 5th PlayOff Hole via Chip-Off, 3rd Place David Bambach (12) - Eliminated 4th Play-Off Hole, 4th Place, Nick Howell (14) - Eliminated 3rd PlayOff Hole, 5th Place Ramsey Vane-Wood (9) - Eliminated 2nd Play-Off Hole, 6th Place Brodie Thackeray (11)Eliminated 1st Play-Off Hole 2BBB | Winners David Bambach (12) & Timothy Kiem (10) 48 Points, Runners Up Mick Mirisch (15) & Wayne Stedman (11) 46 Points BALL COMP | Greg Kellner (17) 37 Points, Stuart Heathwood (15) 37 Points, Mark Maddock (9) 37 Points, James Cowled (10) 37 Points, Glenn Davies
(6) 36 Points, Paul Howell (19) 36 Points, Wayne Stedman (11) 36 Points, Mick Mirisch (15) 36 Points, Robert Radin (21) 36 Points, Lee Hunt (12) [Branxton] 36 Points
NEAREST THE PIN | 1st/10th - Greg Kellner (17), 2nd/11th - Christopher
Burg (13), 8th/17th - Brodie Thackeray (11), 9th/18thGreg Kellner (17) MEMBERS DRAW | Peter Griffin - No.29$78.50 ($78.50 carries forward)
MEMBERS EAGLES NEST | Brodie Thackeray (11) - 14 Balls - 17th Hole
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
q Winner Timothy Kiem and runner up Greg Scott.
q The Bushwackers.
3’ (850m)
4’ (1160m)
5’ (1460m)
6’ (1770m)
(2380)
Lions countdown begins
By Ian CHADBAND, AAP
Asked
q Wallabies' Andrew Kellaway making a big tackle on Ireland's Hugo Keenan, as Tom Wright watches on. Photo: AP PHOTO.