OCTOBER marks the start of Frocktober, an annual fundraiser hosted by the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), Australia’s leading nongovernment funder of ovarian cancer research.
The event encourages Australians to don their favourite frocks to raise awareness, as well as the funds needed to research treatments.
The OCRF believe that something as simple as the clothes we wear can spark important conversations and help shed light on this often-overlooked disease.
Throughout the month, CONTINUED Page 2
RENEWABLE RULES
q Deb Studdert, Angela Dick and Jill Berry.
Frocks on the Greens
FROM Page 1
On Saturday, 5 October,
The day was a huge success, with both girls and guys “frocking up” to step out onto the greens, all in the name of ovarian cancer research.
“It was a smash,” said Jill Berry, who was one of the event organisers.
“We had a fantastic turnout, and we’re thrilled with the funds raised for the OCRF.”
Just over $3000 was raised.
In addition to barefoot bowls, there were various raffles, as well as beautiful Ten-Stitch Blankets up for grabs.
These were hand-knitted by Jill’s mother, Judy Berry.
The funds raised will support OCRF’s sixteen research projects at numerous institutions across Australia.
With the continued generosity of the Dungog community and “The Frock Yeahs”, the OCRF hopes to take even greater strides in ovarian cancer research.
For those who missed out, it’s not too late to get involved. Frock up this Frocktober and help make a difference.
To sponsor and donate go to the supporter page frocktober.org.au/fundraise/ the-frock-yeahs.
DIGBY Rayward has been elected as the new Mayor of Dungog Shire, securing a progressive total of 53.32 percent of the vote after preferences were distributed last week.
Mr Rayward received 30.34 percent of total formal votes, followed by Michael Dowling (25.81 percent), John Connors (24.80 percent) and Karen Drinan (19.05 percent).
Six councillors were also elected across three wards.
Michael Dowling and Liam Ley will serve in A Ward, Stephen Low and James Campbell were elected in B Ward, while Fred Paton and Alexandria Carruthers complete the council as C Ward representatives.
Councillors Ley, Campbell, Carruthers and Paton are newcomers to the council.
“The Frock Yeahs”, being Jill Berry, Angela Dick, and Deb Studdert, held a vibrant Frocktober Barefoot Bowls event at the Dungog Memorial RSL Club.
q Harry Boorer and Jackson Partridge.
q New Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Rayward.
RENEWABLE RULES
Page 1
“In 2023 the Minister publicly committed to fasttracking renewables, and introduced and passed net zero targets for New South Wales to support those stringent targets,” Ms Mihailuk said.
“Given that foreignowned energy developers are taking advantage of an
unregulated solar panel planning system in New South Wales, and are arm-twisting vulnerable individuals and rural residential communities to accept the industrialisation of their precious land for solar panel factories, such as Mitchells Flat in Singleton, why has the Minister not also ensured that the Government fast-track an appropriate
and transparent legislative framework for solar panels, incorporating appropriate oversight measures to ensure a thorough contractual planning legal regulatory framework to stop unscrupulous cowboy behaviour by those energy developers?”
In response to the question, Ms Sharpe said “a range of things are
Ambos honoured
TWO facilitators of the Clarence Town Community First Responder (CFR) group have been recognised for their role in supporting the local emergency response program.
Karen Crighton from Dungog Ambulance Station and Erika Boutillier from Stroud Ambulance Station were honoured at a NSW Ambulance Appreciation Day awards event on 20 September in Newcastle.
Across the state, more than 150 NSW Ambulance staff were recognised for their service.
The awards recognise and celebrate paramedics and ambulance staff members
for their achievements and the extraordinary care they provide.
NSW Ambulance operates a number of clinical volunteer responder models across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote NSW.
The Clarence Town CFR group was established eight years ago and responds to emergencies in the local area, both medical and traumatic, while waiting for NSW Ambulance paramedics to arrive.
“Erika and myself train the Clarence Town group so they can respond to their community with the appropriate skills to attend to emergencies,” Karen Crighton
told NOTA.
“These programs are an important part of building the resilience of small communities and minimising the time between calling for help and receiving initial care from clinically skilled responders, until paramedics arrive.
“This leads to improved patient outcomes.”
The Clarence Town Rural Fire Brigade took to social media to celebrate the local award winners.
“While they both hate being in the spotlight, we want to take this moment to celebrate Karen and Erika,” the Brigade stated.
“Without these two
Shannon@HunterSL.com.au
0488 114
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Under State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021, renewable energy proposals such as solar farms with a capital cost of more than $30 million (or $10 million in an environmentally sensitive area) are considered to be State Significant Development.
Ms Sharpe said landholders being approached for discussions around renewable energy development on their properties was standard practice.
“There is community consultation as well as input from a range of government departments,” she said.
“That is standard; there is nothing new or different.
considered, and all of them are stringent” in planning for renewable energy projects.
“The issues relating to solar farms are worked through under the planning system,” she said.
“Infrastructure development is subject to the same process, whether it is a building, wind farm, solar farm or feedlot.”
Depending on the size of a project, renewable energy proposals are considered under various parts of the
wonderful women, our Clarence Town CFR unit would not be able to stay in operation.
“Congratulations to you both!
“We are extremely proud of you!”
NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said NSW Ambulance Appreciation Day is an opportunity to celebrate the “professionalism and specialised skills of NSW Ambulance staff and recognise the important work they do around the state in the pre-hospital setting”.
“I am immensely proud of all the paramedics, doctors, nurses, control centre staff, corporate staff and volunteers who are being acknowledged and awarded today,” Ms Pearce said.
“People are talking to landholders about options for putting solar panels on their farms or hosting wind towers if they wish to.
“Private landholders have the right to do what they want to with their land.”
Speaking in parliament later that day, Ms Mihailuk again accused energy developers of attempting to “arm-twist vulnerable farmers and landholders to lease their land for very small amounts of money”.
“There are examples of five-by-five-year agreements at $40,000 a year for something like 500 hectares of land, which is outrageous, yet people sign up to those contracts,” she said.
“The energy developers know that they can do it because there is no framework in place to stop them.”
Ms Mihailuk expressed sympathy for residents in Mitchells Flat, where a 90 megawatt (MW) capacity solar farm has been proposed.
According to the project proponent, Elgin Energy, development approval (DA) is being sought for the development, which would include the installation of around 177,000 ground mounted solar panels.
The project website lists “relatively flat and clear land with few environmental constraints” as a reason for the selection of the Mitchells Flat site.
If approved, Elgin says the solar farm can create enough clean electricity to power around 37,500 NSW homes, while creating around 200 jobs during construction and between one and three during the proposed 40-year operational life.
q Tania Mihailuk has been a vocal opponent to renewable energy projects in recent years, including offshore wind development off the Hunter coast. She is pictured speaking at a protest event in Nelson Bay
q Clarence Town Community First Responder facilitators Karen Crighton and Erika Boutillier with Luke Wiseman from NSW Ambulance.
Lisa WISEMAN 0437 315 191 lisa@newsofthearea.com.au
Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone us :
Mon, Tue, Wed or Fri mornings Phone line Open 9am - 2pm (02) 4981 8882
OUTLETS
Where you can pick up your paper
If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us. media@newsofthearea.com.au
Town IGA Clarence Town Post Office
Town Bowling Club
Paterson
Paterson Friendly Grocer
Paterson Service Station
Paterson Country Cafe/Newsagent
Vacy
Vacy General Store
Dungog
Dungog Information Centre
Dungog Newsagent
Lovey's IGA
Dowling General Store
Dungog RSL
Long Room Cafe Hidden Valley Clothing
Bottlemart Farmers Warehouse
Gresford
Gresford Foodworks
Gresford Garage & Rural
Gresford Butchery Providore
Beatty Hotel
Bush block to bedside
By Shannon BENTON
FROM finding her perfect piece of bush to supporting the dying, Jess Watkins has embraced the Dungog community, bringing with her a life of experience, resilience, and heart.
Despite living 45 minutes outside of town, on a sprawling bush block at Monkerai, Jess found her way into local life through volunteer work.
After joining the Dungog Shire Community Centre board as Treasurer, she has helped organise events like Run Dungog.
“Volunteering was the only way I knew to meet people,” she said, “and a community centre is one of the most important institutions in any country town.”
Jess’s journey into the domain of death began with the passing of her mother, who had motor neurone disease.
She was her mother’s primary caregiver, ensuring that she spent her final days at home, surrounded by family. “We did the best we could, but I knew there had to be a better way for others to experience end-of-life care,” she said.
Jess has gone on to help others through their final days, including her husband John’s parents.
The process of being with John’s mother, Joan, in the last moments of her life solidified her belief in the importance of end-oflife support.
Jess provides emotional and logistical support to those nearing the end of life, and their families.
Whether it’s helping with practical
“We slept by her side, creating a space of love and comfort. It was one of the most special things I’ve been able to do.”
arrangements or simply being present for difficult conversations, she finds value in offering a space for people to process their feelings.
“Death can be a time of deep connection and peace,” she said.
“I like being with
people in that place, where the masks fall away, and they can be real.”
For Jess, death work isn’t about sadness.
It’s about honouring life and helping others navigate its final chapter with dignity, love, and understanding.
New art show ‘The Tops’
By Lisa WISEMAN
AN innovative new-style exhibition opened at Dungog Arts Society’s gallery in Dowling Street on 4 October.
Nearly 200 works by artists and artisans from Dungog Shire and further afield are now on show until 3 January, 2025.
For the first time, both visual art and craft works are on display.
There will be no commission taken from sales of works and new pieces can be submitted during the exhibition.
Paintings, prints, woodwork, patchwork quilts, ceramic bowls, crochet hats, cards and concrete critters are featured.
Dungog Shire’s Cr Michael Dowling officially
opened the exhibition while musicians and poets entertained the crowd.
Society President and artist Simone Ryan, said that the exhibition was “exciting” - especially for the young ones.
Artists and artisans from age six upwards entered works and attended the opening. Awards for works inspired by the exhibition theme of “The Tops” were won by John Edge with “Still Life-Figaro” and Archie Slack with “Bob Hunting Tigers in the Desert”.
Janelle Goldman’s “Barrington Tops” won from 85 works in the Open category.
The Visual Art section was judged by Hunter artist Sharyn Street while Craft was judged by Dungog teacher John Grimes, who also presented the Craft and Youth awards.
John O’Brien of Arts Upper Hunter and the Performing Artists of Dungog presented the Senior awards.
Donna Cavanough of the Performing Artists of Dungog said the evening was “fabulous” and “gorgeous”.
Previous Dungog Arts
The exhibition was well attended, with guests commenting favourably on the diversity of the show.
Acts selected at Gig in the Gog to entertain at the opening were Hugh Merrell, Bronwyn Shaunessy, Natalie Newton, Robert W. Smith, Rachel Butcher and duo Meera and Jim Jarvis. More information and the exhibition catalogue can be found at dungogarts.com.au.
q Jess Watkins provides end-of-life support.
q Enjoying the art and craft works and performances were (from right to left): Cr Michael Dowling, ex-Mayor John Connors and patron of the arts, Douglas Spedding.
q Performing artist Hugh Merrell played guitar and sang at the opening.
q Craft judge John Grimes presenting some of the prizes.
Environment ministers summoned over bird flu threat
By Tracey FERRIER, AAP
ENVIRONMENT ministers have been summoned to a special meeting on the looming bird flu threat as Australia asks the US and New Zealand for advice on vaccinating wildlife.
Federal minister Tanya Plibersek has called the meeting for October 18, correspondence shows, after pressure from conservation groups and the ACT government.
ACT Environment Minister Rebecca Vassarotti recently wrote to her federal counterpart, appealing for leadership
as Australia awaits the arrival of H5 High pathogenicity avian influenza.
Ms Vassarotti requested an urgent gathering of environment ministers to ensure they were ready to respond to the virus, which has caused mass wildlife deaths overseas.
The federal minister has since written back saying the meeting would go ahead in line with Ms Vassarotti's suggestion and would involve all environment ministers and their agriculture counterparts.
To date, the federal agriculture department has led a wholeof-government response to the threat, with the involvement of Ms Plibersek's department.
However, the approach has raised concerns from the Invasive Species Council that wildlife impacts have taken a back seat to poultry industry threats.
Campaigner Jack Gough, who has long been calling for naturefocused plans to limit wildlife losses, said the meeting was good news.
He said environment authorities were going to have to "pick winners" and choose which species to help when the virus hit Australia - something that could happen any day with the arrival of migratory birds.
He was heartened to learn from Ms Plibersek's letter that her
department was working on ways to determine how susceptible particular species were to the virus to prioritise action that might help.
He was also happy to hear authorities were reviewing arrangements for the use of vaccines in Australia, including their potential use in threatened species.
"We have been participating in trilateral wildlife vaccination 'lessons learned' discussions with the United States and New Zealand, hosted by Wildlife Health Australia," Ms Plibersek wrote.
"Vaccination of domestic, captive or threatened wild animals may not be feasible in many
circumstances.
"This is why my department is also exploring the potential for other actions to help maximise the resilience of wildlife populations."
The Invasive Species Council has been highly critical of the $7 million package allocated so far to the bird flu threat and wants more cash put on the table.
"For comparison, $66 million was allocated to preparation for African Swine Fever in 2019," Mr Gough said.
"I'd think a similar investment is what should occur here."
AAP sought comment from Ms Plibersek's office.
Shame a barrier as many delay help for mental health
By Jack GRAMENZ, AAP
MORE than one in five
Australians feel too ashamed to seek professional support for mental health issues, with the cost of living and accessibility of care contributing to some waiting up to a decade before they get help.
A recent survey has revealed 22 percent of people said they were not
seeking support because they felt ashamed.
The figure was up from 13 percent when the same survey was conducted in 2022.
The mental health and wellbeing check, conducted for mental health support service Beyond Blue by Australian National University's Social Research Centre, took in responses from more than 5000 people
around the country.
Almost half waited until they were very or extremely distressed before they sought professional mental health support, with 30 percent seeking support when in moderate distress.
Some waited up to 10 years before seeking support.
Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said people should not delay
seeking help.
"Mental health issues or experiences of situational distress are easier to manage when we get onto them early before they snowball," she said.
"You don't need to be struggling for years before your problems are worth addressing - you don't have to be at crisis point to benefit from support."
But barriers remained,
including waitlists to access treatment, struggles to afford it amid the rising cost of living, and people thinking their concerns were not serious enough, the survey revealed.
Financial pressure was a key contributor to the distress of 46 percent of the respondents with another 34 percent nominating housing affordability and challenges in their relationships as
stress factors.
"People are dealing with compounding and mounting pressures," Ms Harman said.
"They're strung out but muddling through.
"The pressures people face can often snowball to have a real and negative impact on our mental health and wellbeing."
Lifeline 13 11 14. beyondblue 1300 22 4636.
Authorised by Gillian Calvert 8 Hampstead Rd Dulwich Hill 2203
'Line in the sand': premier urges social media ban ASAP
By Andrew BROWN, AAP
ANY ban on young people using social media needs to be implemented as soon as possible, the NSW premier says.
Ahead of a two-day summit between the NSW and South Australian governments on addressing social media issues, Chris Minns said age restrictions for the tech platforms were more than needed.
"I'd like to see (an age ban) done as soon as possible... ultimately, we have to draw a line in the sand," he told Sky News on Sunday.
"This is a big change for Australia, but I think
it's warranted, given this is, in my view, a global, unregulated experiment on young people and the prevalent use of social media."
It comes as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote to state and territory leaders asking for input on how an age ban on social media could be implemented.
The federal government has indicated it will look to introduce legislation restricting social media use for young people, but an exact age limit has not been determined.
The prime minister asked premiers and chief ministers their preference for an age limit, and how parental consent could be factored in.
The leaders were also
asked to consider whether young people with existing social media accounts would be exempt from any future ban.
Mr Minns said he would want to see a social media ban start at age 16, but there needed to be a uniform approach across states and territories.
"Wherever we end up is a world away from where we currently are, which is widespread use, which is obviously negative for a lot of people," he said.
"The obligations would be on social media companies to make sure that they've got restrictions in place."
Age verification trials are underway to help determine how a possible ban could be enforced.
Sleep experts debunk daylight saving health risks
By Nyk CARNSEW, AAP
DAYLIGHT saving has no negative impact on people's health, a world-first study has found.
The effect of daylight saving on health has long been the subject of speculation, amid concerns over loss of sleep as well as the increased risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Sleep experts from Flinders University in Adelaide have carried out the world's first comprehensive study into the practice's longterm impact and found no significant evidence it results in a loss of sleep.
Researcher Reece Kemp says people living in daylight saving states get comparable sleep to those who don't, aside from a small tendency to go to bed and wake up later.
"We got the opportunity to study a lot of downstream effects in sleep health and daytime functioning... once again we found really no difference," Mr Kemp told AAP.
The researchers focused
on the later months of daylight savings time, as prior studies only focused on the impact during the first few weeks.
"If you're going to be removing daylight savings time you want to know what the exact cost of it is," Mr Kemp said.
"The interesting opportunity about Australia is that you have basically a half-split of states that observe daylight saving time and those who are on standard time."
The researchers compared the sleep patterns of people in states that observe daylight saving against those that don't, using data from two nationwide questionnaires.
While the evidence does suggest people could lose sleep in the first few weeks, the impact was no worse than jet lag, Mr Kemp said.
The tendency of Australians in states that observe daylight saving to go to bed and wake up later also likely offsets any long-term risk.
"Is that potentially people in daylight savings time are adapting? Possibly," he said.
However, people concerned about adjusting to the transition can avoid losing sleep by sticking to a strict sleep schedule over the weekend and avoiding staying up late or sleeping in.
"Because of the clock change, you might be waking up quite late by body clock time and thus you might not be feeling super sleepy on that Sunday night," Mr Kemp said.
"That's where a lot of this idea that daylight savings time was harmful came from.
"Come Monday morning, you might be feeling really tired and that would compound throughout the work week and result in an even bigger sleep the next weekend."
Daylight saving time began on Sunday at 2am AEST, when clocks moved forward one hour to 3am AEDT in all states and territories except Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
THE BATMAN
NBN, 8.40pm
Not so much a superhero blockbuster as it is a gritty crime saga, filmmaker Matt Reeves’ (Cloverfield, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes) three-hour epic crafts a grim, noirish narrative world for a faithful iteration of the DC Comics vigilante. The Batman finds Bruce Wayne (Robert Pattinson, pictured) just two years into his crime-fighting journey – a younger man than we’ve seen him before, he’s still set on vengeance, but in a brooding, hot-headed kind-of way. The villain of the piece is the Riddler (Paul Dano), a deranged serial killer targeting Gotham City’s elite. The Batman is as close as it gets to a definitive adaptation for the caped crusader.
FRIDAY, October 11
MONDAY
DESSERT MASTERS
TEN, 7.30pm
Hungry for another instalment of gorgeous, gravity-defying desserts that would look at home in a modern-art museum? This creative culinary competition will hit the sweet spot. MasterChef winner Emelia Jackson, The Great Australian Bake Off judge Darren Purchese and colourful cake queen Katherine Sabbath are among the professionals putting their imagination and baking skills to the ultimate test in Masters’ second season. In tonight’s premiere, judges Melissa Leong (pictured) and Amaury Guichon are looking for each chef’s dessert masterpiece – with a secret season-long advantage at stake. Word to the wise: a sugary snack won’t go astray when indulging in this mouthwatering delight.
TUESDAY
RED FLAG: MUSIC’S FAILED REVOLUTION
SBS, 8.35pm
Intrepid investigator Marc Fennell (pictured), host of Framed, The Kingdom and The Mission, will stop at nothing to unravel a stranger-thanfiction mystery.
In this intriguing docuseries, Fennell and musician Ben Lee hark back to the turn of the millennium to delve into the rise and fall of Guvera, a music service that promised to revolutionise a multi-billion dollar recording industry, then under threat from piracy. A major player that once rivalled Spotify, the Gold Coast start-up seemed like the next big thing, until it wasn’t – vanishing with $180 million. Candid interviews with former staff, investors and industry experts make this compelling two-parter a must-watch.
Part 4 of 4.
9.20 Question Everything. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson and Jan Fran.
9.50 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
10.20 You Can’t Ask That. (Ml, R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.10 Grand Designs. (R)
11.55 Love Your Garden. (PG, R)
12.45 The Larkins. (Ms, R)
1.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.55 Merlin. 11.40 Fresh Off The Boat. Midnight Speechless. 12.25 Good Game Spawn Point. 1.10 Rage. 2.10 Slugterra. 2.30 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (Return, Mns)
8.30 Castle Secrets. (Premiere, Mav) Takes a look at castles. 9.25 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)
10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 The Allegation. (Mav)
12.20 Kin. (MA15+d, R) 4.10 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, 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. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019, Ml, R) During the ’60s, American car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference and the laws of physics to build a revolutionary race car for Ford so they can defeat rivals Ferrari. Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal.
11.40 MOVIE: Hollow Man. (2000, MA15+hlv, R) Kevin Bacon.
1.55 GetOn Extra.
2.30 Home Shopping.
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III: Coasts. (PG, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
8.40 MOVIE: The Batman. (2022, Mlv) Batman pursues a sadistic serial killer who is murdering political figures in Gotham. Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano.
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Destination WA.
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 Surfing Australia TV. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.
6.00
SATURDAY, October 12
6.25 Back Roads: Ongerup, Western Australia. (PG, R) Heather Ewart visits Ongerup.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Grantchester. (Mv) Alphy is invited to a party at a country manor.
8.20 Vera. (Mv, R) DCI Vera Stanhope investigates the case
Better. (Malv, R) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Inside Windsor Castle.
8.25 Jackie And Lee: A Tale Of Two Sisters. (Ma, R)
9.20 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (R)
10.15 Arthur: A Life With The Royal Family. (PGals, R)
11.15 Something Undone. (Mal)
12.15 Rex In Rome. (Mlv, R)
3.55 Paddington Station 24/7. (Ml, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Practice session. 1.00 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Practice session and support races. 4.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (1984, PGhl, R) Scientists become ghost hunters. Bill Murray.
9.40 MOVIE: Venom. (2018, Malv, R) A journalist is merged with a symbiotic alien. Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams. 11.40 Australia’s Most Dangerous Prisoners. (R)
12.40 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 2. Top 10 Shootout.
2.30 Home Shopping.
4.00 Larry The Wonder Pup. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Mrs Doubtfire. (1993, PGal, R) A man poses as a female housekeeper. Robin Williams.
10.00 MOVIE: The Adventures Of Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. (1994, Mls, R) Guy Pearce. 12.00 MOVIE: Ascendant. (2021, MA15+av, 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)
6.30 The Dog House. (PG, R) Dogs are matched with companions. 7.30 Thank God You’re Here. (als, R) Hosted by Celia Pacquola. 8.40 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Follow the staff at the Animal Welfare League as it matches dogs to their new families. 9.40 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) A motorbike rider falls while travelling at
(31)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (Return) 8.00 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Dragon Ball Super. 10.45 Crazy Fun Park. 11.10 The PM’s Daughter. 11.35 Good Game Spawn Point. 12.25am Rage. 1.55 Slugterra. 2.15 The Rubbish World Of Dave Spud. 2.25 Late Programs.
SUNDAY,
6am Footy
Legends. Continued. (2006, PG) 7.05 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 9.00 Darling Companion. (2012, PG) 11.00 T-34. (2018, M, Russian) 1.05pm Tracker. (2010, M) 3.00 The Grey Fox. (1982, PG) 4.40 Soft Skin. (1964, PG, French) 6.50 All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG)
October 13
9.00 Growing A Greener World. (R) 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. (R) 11.30 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 Surf Life Saving. Coolangatta Gold. 1.30 Speedweek. (R) 2.00 Volleyball. Australian Super League. Finals. Gold medal match. 5.00 PBS Washington Week. 5.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 5.30 Apocalypse D-Day. (PGaw)
6.00 Weekend Sunrise. The latest news, sport and weather. 7.30 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Support races and warm up. 10.30 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 3. Race 20.
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Return To Paradise. (Final, Mav)
8.30 Unforgotten. (Final, Mal)
A second victim is linked to the case.
9.15 Miniseries: Better. (Final, Malv) Part 5 of 5.
10.15 Fisk. (Final, PG, R)
10.45 Melbourne Comedy Festival: The Gala. (MA15+l, R)
12.45 Fires. (Mal, R)
1.40 Miniseries: Ridley Road. (Mav, R)
2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Farmageddon. (2019) 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.45 Spookiz. 12.05am Malory Towers. 12.55 A Kind Of Spark. 1.20 Slugterra. 1.40 The Rubbish World Of Dave Spud. 1.50 Summer Memories. 2.00 Horrible Histories. 3.00 Miraculous. 3.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Temple Of Hatshepsut.
8.30 The Lost City Of Ramses. (PGa, R)
10.20 Devil’s Confession: Lost Eichmann Tapes. (Mavw, R)
11.25 Face Down: Killing Of Thomas Niedermayer. (Mal)
12.25 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)
2.10 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals, R)
3.05 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R)
3.50 Great Canal Journeys. (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.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) 8.55 7NEWS Spotlight. An exclusive special investigation.
9.55 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Moorhouse Horrors. (Mav, R) A look at David and Catherine Birnie. 11.10 Autopsy USA. (MA15+a)
12.10 The Starter Wife. (Mas, R) 1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.
Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.40 9News Late.
10.10 See No Evil: The Hand-Off. (Mal) 11.10 The First 48. (Malv) 12.00 Transplant. (MA15+m) 12.45 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R) 1.35 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Destination WA. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 MOVIE: LOL Surprise: The Skate Dance Movie. (2024) 9.00 Children’s Programs. 2pm MOVIE: Pokémon: The Spell Of Unown. (2001, PG) 3.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 5.30 MOVIE: How To Train Your Dragon 2. (2014, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Meg. (2018, M) 9.45 MOVIE: Godzilla. (2014, M) 12.10am The Originals. 2.00 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs.
MONDAY, October 14
Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Mls)
10.05 Have I Got News For You U.S. (Mals)
10.55 SBS World News Late.
11.25 Suspect. (Malv)
11.55 Exterior Night. (Premiere, MA15+v) 2.05 Between Two Worlds. (Mals, R) 3.50 Paddington Station 24/7. (Ml, 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 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Bavarian cuisine is on display. 9.10 The Rookie. (Mav) In the wake of a mafia-related mass casualty event, the team is tasked with keeping the peace at a hospital. 10.10 S.W.A.T. (Mav)
11.10 The Latest: Seven News. 11.40 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGals) 12.40 Miniseries: The Victim. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
6am The Last Wave. Continued. (1977, PG) 7.00 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 8.50 Lola. (1961, PG, French) 10.30 Mahana. (2016, M) 12.25pm The Exchange. (2021, M) 2.10 All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 3.50 Helene. (2020, PG, Finnish) 6.00 When Mum Is Away… With The Family. (2020, PG, Italian) 7.55 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG) 9.30 First Cow. (2019, PG) 11.45 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, October 15
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey: Sri Lanka. (PGa)
8.35 Red Flag: Music’s Failed Revolution: F*** Pirates. Part 1 of 2.
9.50 SBS World News Late.
10.20 The Point: Road Trip. (R)
11.15 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v)
1.10 Don’t Leave Me. (MA15+a, R)
3.05 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R)
3.55 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
When Mum Is Away… With The Family. Continued. (2020, PG, Italian) 7.45 Helene. (2020, PG, Finnish) 9.55 Bran Nue Dae. (2009, PG) 11.35 Keep Going. (2018, M, French) 1.10pm First Cow. (2019, PG) 3.25 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 5.20 Goal! (2005, PG) 7.30 Into The White. (2012, M, Norwegian) 9.30 Chino. (1973, M) 11.20 Speed Kills. (2018, M) 1.15am Cleo From 5 To 7. (1962, M, French) 2.55 Late Programs.
My Kitchen Rules. (PG) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
Alert: Missing Persons Unit. A young pregnant woman
WEDNESDAY, October 16
7.35 Portillo’s Andalucia. (PG)
8.25 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar: Freedom. (Mal) Part 3 of 3.
9.20 Four Years Later. (Mls) Yash throws himself in to work and study.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Carmen Curlers. (Mas)
12.55 Romulus. (MA15+av, R)
3.40 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 Akmal: Open For Renovations. (MA15+l) A stand-up performance by Akmal.
9.45 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R) Presented by Shane Jacobson. 10.45 The Latest: Seven News.
11.15 Chicago Fire. (MA15+a)
12.15 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+av) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
THURSDAY, October 17
6am Bran Nue
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Great Australian Walks. (PG)
8.30 National Parks From Above: Turkey. (PG) A look at Göreme Historical National Park.
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
Dae. Continued. (2009, PG) 6.10 Goal! (2005, PG) 8.20 First Cow. (2019, PG) 10.35 The Legend Of Ben Hall. (2017, M) 1.10pm Chino. (1973, M) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 When Mum Is Away… With The Family. (2020, PG, Italian) 5.30 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 7.30 Defiance. (2008, M) 10.00 The Quick And The Dead. (1995, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs. 6am The Emperor’s Club. Continued. (2002, PG) 7.50 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 10.05 Into The White. (2012, M, Norwegian) 12.05pm Speed Kills. (2018, M) 2.00 Goal! (2005, PG) 4.10 The Producers. (1967, PG) 5.50 Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 7.30 True Confessions. (1981, M) 9.30 The Hateful Eight. (2015, MA15+) 12.35am Good Time. (2017, MA15+) 2.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 8.30 Australia’s Most Dangerous Prisoners. Explores life behind bars is like for prisoners Adrian Bayley, Katherine Knight and Simon Gittany.
9.30 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop: Maria James. (MA15+av, R) Revisits the murder of Maria James.
The Latest: Seven News. 11.00 Soham: Catching A Killer. (Mav, R)
Magnum P.I.
(64)
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
I HAVE been part of a book club for two years.
One of the members recently confessed that they don't read any of the books (they listen to the audiobook or sometimes just read the first 50 pages and the final page).
Am I wrong to think this isn't 'real' reading?
Are they cheating somehow?
My understanding is that books need to be read, in full, to embrace their effect.
Hermione D.
Dear Hermione,
YOUR name conjures up a particular image for me.
I can see you and your fellow book club members ranged around a coffee table, a platter with cashews, sliced pear, homemade hummus dip, perhaps some black seedless grapes strategically draped over its bamboo edge.
You with your notebook full of carefully observed points of discussion.
And, when it's your turn to host, carefully selected wines based on literature, pouring
glasses of Chianti or fullbodied Port in honour of Sherlock Holmes. Casually dropping Virginia Woolf's line about language being 'wine upon the lips', a reference completely lost by fellow book clubber Susan, whose wild gesticulations mean she somehow manages to get more wine on her lap than in her mouth.
And you would never dare to resort to book club trickery (perhaps reading a review or two, Googling a synopsis, removing any hope of an original thought by resorting to SparkNotes).
Nor would you listen to an audiobook, because that is somehow less authentic.
It's taking the work out of it. If language is wine upon the lips, what is it when someone else's lips
are involved?
I'd say it's literary infidelity.
Stick to your moral code, Hermione.
Don't cheapen the experience with Bose earplugs.
Suffer through your blurred vision and your pulled neck muscle from trying to finish the last chapter before book club night, just as the author has suffered through years of drafts, imposter syndrome, a below-minimum wage, a divorce, and a bad Goodreads review by a faceless person named LitChickxox (which felt like a knife to the heart).
You are correct in stating that the most important rule of a book club is to read the goddamn book.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Response to MP’s claims on nuclear
DEAR News Of The Area,
IN his latest four-page newsletter on nuclear energy, Dr Gillespie has once again made statements at odds with experts from CSIRO and the Australian energy moderator.
He states that underwriting renewables is putting pressure on coalfired power stations to close when in fact our remaining power stations are reaching the end of their lives with the last set to close by 2038.
Given that nuclear power plants will take at least 15 years to build, this form of power simply can’t fill the gap left by closure of coalfired power stations.
It is this that has the capacity to bring about an
energy crisis, not the roll out of solar and wind generated power as claimed.
He states that two nuclear power projects will start producing energy by 2035 and that nuclear power plants will allow us to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
This plan depends on when and if they are elected, their ability to remove current bans, find the technology and finance, and the sites to host it.
The Coalition claims nuclear energy will be cheaper, but still haven’t provided any costings.
This claim contradicts CSIRO’s Gencost report that states a combination of wind and solar remains our cheapest options.
CSIRO’s figures also show that small modular reactors could cost up to eight times more than renewables (complete with their associated transmission and storage costs).
This is backed up by the Clean Energy Council’s report that nuclear energy will be up to six times more expensive than solar and wind.
Dr Gillespie claims that Australians are paying some of the world’s highest electricity bills.
Comparisons to other countries show for example that our average prices are well below the OECD average and less than many European countries.
Of further alarm is that
the Coalition plans to fund the nuclear power plants from the public purse meaning that billions of dollars will be removed from vital areas such as education and health.
Australia’s biggest supplier of coal generation and baseload power, AGL says there is no room for nuclear in Australia’s transition to renewables–neither on a grid dominated by wind and solar nor at its coal sites that it intends to transform.
Two of AGL’s coal generation sites have been identified by the Coalition for nuclear power plants.
AGL states it has no intention of giving up assets for nuclear power
plants, despite threats of compulsory acquisition, as they have their own plans.
It says the site of the recently shut Liddell coal generator in the Hunter Valley is already accounted for, with plans for a giant battery, solar module manufacturing, panel recycling, a link to a planned 400 MW pumped hydro facility and multiple green industries.
Of further concern is that nowhere in the newsletter is there a single mention of how and where the nuclear waste will be stored.
Dr Gillespie continues to criticise the cost of the government’s transmission system – Rewiring the Nation Project – through which investment in new
transmission lines aims to deliver affordable, reliable renewable energy to cities, towns, and regional communities, a key part of how we respond to climate change.
Dr Gillespie also ignores that we are one of the world’s most sparsely populated countries with large distances between inland settlements.
The National Energy Market stands as one of the world’s longest interconnected electricity systems, spanning across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria linking to South Australia and Tasmania via undersea cables. It is the most complex single integrated capital infrastructure in the Southern Hemisphere.
Dungog rental increases Have Your Say
article on regional rent increases.
Interestingly Dungog has topped the charts; impressive growth given some other contenders on the list.
It's no surprise that people are finally catching on to how incredible Dungog is as a place to live.
This article shows Dungog leading the charts for rental growth over the past twelve months, driven by people
looking to move away from city life in search of better quality of life and relief from rising living costs.
Dungog is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of this trend, with more people seeking the lifestyle we offer.
But we need sensible development to ensure this growth benefits everyone.
Without it, the risk is that our locals get priced out of their own community.
Growth can bring immense benefits - supporting our small businesses, enhancing local
services, and providing muchneeded revenue for council to maintain and improve our town. But this only works if we also grow our housing options.
Without enough homes, rent will keep rising, and we miss out on all the other positives that residential growth can bring.
The demand is clear: people want to move here.
Now, we need to build a community that can capitalise on this opportunity for the good of everyone.
Regards, Councillor Liam LEY.
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee or of publication from your submission to us.
Publication will be determined by the editor around available space, relevance and appropriateness.
Mail to media@newsofthearea.com.au
Local creative grants return
APPLICATIONS for Arts
Upper Hunter’s Country Arts Support Program (CASP) close on Monday, 28 October.
The program provides grants of up to $3000 to arts and cultural groups, not-for-profit organisations and local councils
for short term, locally initiated projects. To be eligible, projects must start after 15 January 2025 and finish by 1 December 2025.
Applicants are required to be based in the Arts Upper Hunter region, which covers Dungog,
Wednesday, 9 October 2024
Muswellbrook, Singleton and Upper Hunter council areas.
An information session will be held for interested parties on Monday, 14 October at 5pm via Zoom.
“Schools can’t apply but school P&Cs can, as can museums,” Arts Upper
Hunter said in a statement. “A fair chunk of the grant must be used to employ professional artists or cultural workers, and projects can be in any art form.”
Successful applicants in 2024 included St Paul’s Anglican Church
Murrurundi, Kirkton Public School P&C Association, Timor Tennis Club, Muswellbrook South Public School P&C and the Singleton Library.
“Arts Upper Hunter can assist with developing project ideas, sourcing artists, pay rates, budgets and explaining the online application form.
“All applicants must discuss their application with Arts Upper Hunter before you lodge,” the statement read.
To learn more and apply, please visit artsupperhunter.com or call John O’Brien on 0409 382 509.
q In 2023, the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre engaged Dan Bianco to facilitate a street art workshop and work with participants to design a mural. Photo: Lee Watts.
Regards, Sue BAKER.
DEAR News Of The Area, DOMAIN has published an
Leak detection technologies
IN AN effort to improve the region’s water security, Hunter Water is rolling out a range of new leak detection technologies.
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary says detecting and fixing leaks is a key priority, with recent initiatives achieving a 27
percent reduction in leakage across the organisation's 5000-kilometre network of water pipes.
"Finding and fixing
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
AN intriguing slate of films are being released this week to Aussie cinemas, though you may need to hunt around for the chance to view the best of them.
The Apprentice
Testing the limits of Australia’s tolerance for US political figures is the biopic “The Apprentice” which purportedly recounts the formative years in business of Donald Trump.
Starring Sebastian Stan in the title role, the film centres on Trump’s relationship with Roy Cohn (played by Jeremy Strong), a lawyer notorious for his involvement with the Communist witch-hunts of the 50’s who became a mentor to the future President.
Possibly the most interesting aspect of this film is that financing for the production was helped by a sizable donation from a friend of Trump who expected a positive
and inspiring portrayal of the man.
Instead the controversial depictions of dishonest business dealings and abusive behaviour caused multiple efforts to block the release of the film.
Hellboy: The Crooked Man
Another comic franchise is rebooted with “Hellboy: The Crooked Man”.
Following the exploits of a demon summoned by Nazis in WWII but raised by a kind and noble British paranormal expert, this will be the third iteration of the character on the big screen.
This time Hellboy (Jack Kesy) investigates a supernatural entity in a remote, mountain community full of folklore and witchcraft.
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story.
Receiving a surprise theatrical release is the documentary “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story”.
NOTA seeks community writers
TELLING the incredible stories of regional communities is what News Of The Area (NOTA) is all about.
Amid widespread newspaper closures, the independently-owned and family-run NOTA remains passionate about keeping locals up to date with all the latest news, sport, current affairs and more.
Now, NOTA is seeking more enthusiastic locals to join the team.
“I would love to hear from you,” said NOTA Group Editor Douglas Connor.
“As the paper continues to
grow, we are always looking for enthusiastic wordsmiths to help cover the region’s news, sport, events, music etc.”
Writing for NOTA can be an amazing way to connect with your local community, to meet some of the aweinspiring locals creating change in the area, and to learn and experience the unique elements of life in the region.
If you want to be a part of helping the community get its weekly local news hit, then let's start the conversation.
Send us an email telling us a bit about yourself to media@ newsofthearea.com.au.
in new technology and innovation is assisting our teams to work efficiently and effectively,” he said.
Hunter Water is currently trialling the implementation of new digital meters for customers, with wireless communication devices offering real-time insights into water consumption.
The number of flowmeters and monitoring devices operating in the network has also been significantly increased.
Mr Cleary says these programs, working in parallel with a new partnership with the University of Adelaide, allow for a “multifaceted approach to the complex challenge of detecting leaks”.
“We have partnered with the University of Adelaide to trial their advanced leak detection system.
hidden leaks and predicting water main breaks can be a challenge across our broad and complex network of pipes, but our investment
“This system uses cutting-edge machine learning models to detect and locate leaks by analysing vibrations.
From filmmakers Ian Bonhôte & Peter Ettedgui - who have previously made documentaries about fashion designer Alexander McQueen and the journeys of paralympic athletes in Rising Phoenixthis film combines archival footage with interviews to explore the legacy of the actor who “made us believe that a man could fly.”
Obviously the film explores his life and career as well as the horse-riding accident that left him permanently unable to walk, but the true heart of this film examines the work he engaged in as an advocate for medical research to help improve the lives of those who have experienced similar tragedies.
What truly makes this a special experience is that the interviews conducted for the film are chiefly with his three surviving children - Alexandra, Matthew and Will.
Terrifier 3
The most extreme of the hardcore horror hounds will be thrilled this week to know that “Terrifier 3” is coming to select screens.
Hunter Water is also rehabilitating and replacing essential aging infrastructure, such as reservoirs and trunk mains, to prevent leaks and ensure the network continues to operate reliably.
As an additional measure, pressure-reducing valves will be installed in network areas with high pressure.
"Reducing losses within our network is essential to our business and our multifaceted and evolving program underscores our dedication to water conservation and optimising network performance,” Mr Cleary said.
"The Lower Hunter Water Security Plan describes Hunter Water's role in making the most of its existing water sources and ensuring water security for the region.
“Identifying and reducing leakage play a significant role in achieving this," Mr Cleary said.
“The trial is showing great success, already identifying six leaks across our network,” Mr Cleary said.
Most of us can remain very content in our complete lack of awareness about this franchise.
Filmmaker Damien Leone has enjoyed unbelievable success with this series of micro-budget films, which are largely endurance tests to see just how much gore the audience can stomach.
This one is definitely not suitable for the kids or for date night.
Ghostlight
Finally, the indie drama Ghostlight receives a limited release this week.
A beautiful but agonising exploration of grief and loss, this is a film that will probably require you to bring a box of tissues.
Following the death of his son, a construction worker struggles to contain his own anger, while dealing with a similar attitude in his teenage daughter.
An unexpected invitation to join a local theatre production of “Romeo and Juliet" is the catalyst for extraordinary change within the family.
q Hunter Water's Nick Goninan installing a leak detection device.
Annual tradition
display, live music, tug-ofwar, wood chop competitions and much more.
Oklahoma, USA; in Ontario, Canada; and in New South Wales, Australia.
The traditional highlight is the competitive throwing events, where competitors attempt to throw a brick or rolling pin the furthest distance.
Adding to the fun on Sunday was a street parade, food stalls, a vintage car
In the Open Brick Throwing competition, Angus Devon took out first place with a toss of 87 feet, coming in ahead of near challengers Peter Dolkons, Peter Grambrill and Nathan Ward.
In the Open Rolling Pin Throwing competition, Ivy Hoadley came out on top with a gigantic 97 feet 10
inches, with Mia Finch and Rachelle Somerville coming in second and third.
In the International Brick Throwing competition, Peter Gambril topped the field with a throw of 87 feet 5 inches, with Angus Devon and Nathan Ward not far behind.
Ivy Hoadley again topped the International Rolling Pin division, followed by Mia Finch and Rachelle Somerville.
STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 16
q A young rolling pin competitor lets fly. Photo: Dave Layzell MP.
q A street parade kicked off the day's proceedings at 10am. Photo: Dave Layzell MP.
q The Stroud State Emergency Service team. Photo: Dave Layzell MP.
q International Brick Throwing competition champion Peter Gambril. Photo: nyomiaubreyphotography.
q Open and International Rolling Pin Throwing competition winner Ivy Hoadley. Photo: nyomiaubreyphotography.
q Open Brick Throwing competition winner Angus Devon. Photo: nyomiaubreyphotography.
q Superheroes made the trip to Stroud Showground to witness the action. Photo: Dave Layzell MP.
DUNGOG SHIRE
SPORT
Annual tradition
Pin
Originally scheduled for
due to the Stroud Showground being waterlogged. The competition is run across four Stroud townships in four countries; Stroud in Gloucestershire, England; in CONTINUED Page 15
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 $3,200 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 $3,200 and jackpotting by $50 twice a week if not won.
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
General Meeting on 13/10/2024
RESIDENTS from across the Hunter and MidCoast regions flocked to the annual Stroud Brick Throwing and Rolling
Competition on Sunday, 6 October.
July, the iconic event was rescheduled
q International Brick and Rolling Pin competitors with organiser Karen Hutchinson. Photo: nyomiaubreyphotography.
