GLOUCESTER DISTRICT
By Wendy BUSWELL
By John WATTS
YOUNG horseman
q Cameron Dunlop on Spartacus. Photo: supplied.
David Gillespie’s valedictory speech
By Sue STEPHENSON
“I LISTENED, I cared and I did deliver.”
These were among Dr David Gillespie’s final words to the Australian Parliament after almost twelve years as the Member for Lyne.
Dr Gillespie announced his retirement in October, with the Nationals to pre-select his potential replacement in coming weeks, ahead of next year’s Federal Election.
Among the contenders is the former state Member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey.
Dr Gillespie’s address can be found in full on his Facebook and Instagram pages.
CLASSIFIEDS
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,
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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 side-effects followed by a serious bike accidentfractured ribs, sternum, vertebra, amnesia for a day or two - pneumonia 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, ForsterTuncurry and the region now have access to a multiuniversity, 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 coal-fired 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 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 Dr David Gillespie delivers his valedictory speech to the Australian Parliament.
q The outgoing Member for Lyne is congratulated by fellow MPs.
Gloucester student takes on maths challenge
GLOUCESTER’S
Eli Soupidis took on the Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Challenge held in Newcastle on Tuesday 26 November.
The Challenge brought together year 5 and 6 students
from across NSW who had excelled in this year’s Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition.
From finance to medical research and even getting hands-on to extract DNA from a strawberry, the students were challenged to collaborate with their peers and imagine maths as something more than a subject at school through presentations and quizzes from professionals from Newcastle Permanent, the Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle.
Star performance at campdraft SCHOOL SUPPORT
FROM Page 1
seriously this year.
"It's been a big learning curve, a lot of trial and error, and overcoming my nerves,” he said.
“I started having a bit of success, and it snowballed from there."
Competing also provides an opportunity to meet new people.
"There are many interesting individuals at the drafts who are happy to share their ideas with rookies like me.
"I enjoy the horse aspect of the sport, but there's also a rush of adrenaline.
“It's a fast-paced sport, not boring at all. When you're in the thick of it, your heart starts racing. You have to think on your feet.
“Ultimately, it's a game of split seconds; you have to decide which side of the cow to get on so you can drive it around the pegs."
Veteran horseman Kelvin Gregory said campdrafting is a uniquely Australian horse sport.
“It started in big properties in Northern Australia that didn't have boundaries.
“Stockmen would cut or draft cattle out of the herd for various reasons, such as branding, selling, or moving weaners to other parts of the run.
“The drafting process became an impromptu competition at the end of the workday to prove which stockman had the best camp horse and riding skills.”
This rivalry evolved into a formal competition, giving rise to the sport of campdrafting.
The objective is to select and draft a cow away from a small herd.
Once the animal is under control, a gate opens, and the horseman has 40 seconds to guide the beast around a designated course.
Judges award points based on control, riding skills, speed, and successful course completion.
Cameron is making his way up the Australian Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association's (ABCRA) Campdraft standings and expects these wins to “give me a few more points".
ABCRA invites the top 25 horsemen and women to compete in the yearly National Finals.
FROM Page 1
learning,
The school has announced the launch of a building fund, with the P&C inviting the local community to contribute ideas and support, to help shape the future of education in Gloucester.
The Building Fund aims to address critical infrastructure needs, modernise facilities, and create innovative spaces that inspire learning and community engagement.
According to the P&C, the initiative marks a pivotal moment for the school as it seeks to further elevate educational standards and provide students with the best possible resources to succeed.
Some ideas under consideration include a multi-use school hall, a stateof-the-art engineering/ construction classroom, and buildings associated with a multisport artificial turf venue.
But the P&C feels that
community input will be vital.
"We are excited to announce the commencement of our Building Fund, and look forward to working with the Department of Education to see real transformation at Gloucester High,” said Steve Bignell, Vice-President of the P&C.
"This initiative is about transforming the educational experience for our students.
“We believe that by involving the community in this process, we can gather diverse perspectives and ideas that will truly make a difference."
The fund has been seeded by an initial contribution of $500,000, but further support is essential, with all contributions being tax deductible.
According to the P&C this exciting campaign will encourage community members, parents, alumni, and local businesses to contribute their suggestions and proposals for improvement.
Whether it's new classrooms, upgrading infrastructure, enhancing sports facilities, or creating new combined school and
Newcastle Permanent Chief Distribution Officer Paul Juergens said that the maths challenge inspired students to dream big.
“This isn’t just about challenging students on paper, we want to challenge what they know about mathematics and its possibilities,” Mr Juergens said.
“More than 15,000 students participated in our maths competition this year, and we know that the interest in all that STEM can offer is growing and growing.”
community spaces, every idea will be considered to ensure that the transformation meets the needs of the students and the Gloucester community.
To facilitate community involvement, the P&C invites parents and the community to attend its meetings where they can share their thoughts and recommendations.
This will provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue and collaboration, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the future of the school.
"We want this campaign to be inclusive and transparent," said P&C Secretary Robyn Beggs.
"Every voice matters, and together we can create a learning environment that reflects our community's values and aspirations."
P&C meetings are held the third Monday of every month at 6pm in the Gloucester High School library.
The next meeting will be in February 2025.
Parental and community support is highly valued. For further details, the school can be contacted at gloucester-h.school@det. nsw.edu.au.
23 denison st, gloucester
q Gloucester’s Eli Soupidis at the Challenge.
q Gloucester High School’s rejuvenated entrance.
Vicki’s putting others first at Christmas
By John WATTS
CHRISTMAS is a time to gather and celebrate with family and friends.
children.
stress.
So, she put up some posters around town and on that first Christmas, about a dozen people came to lunch.
Vicky was running June’s Café in Gloucester when she decided to put on her first free Christmas lunch for those who would otherwise be spending the day alone, or who were experiencing financial
But eleven years ago, Vicki Harris realised that something needed to be done for those in the Gloucester community who were alone on Christmas Day.
Since then numbers have grown to between 30 and 40 people and the lunch is now held at the CWA Hall.
At first, Vicki paid for all the food and trimmings, and was the “chief cook and bottlewasher”.
Since the word got around, she has received help from volunteers and donations to defray the costs (although she still does all the cooking).
“I’ve had some fantastic donations from individuals and organisations in the town,” she said.
“There are absolutely amazing people in Gloucester, they give all the time.
“In the beginning I provided a cold meat and salad meal, but realised that people preferred a baked meal, so that’s what we provide now.
“The CWA generously donates the use of its hall.”
Although the majority of Vicki’s lunch guests are older, there are also young people, and families with
“It is open to anybody, especially if there are young parents new to the town who don’t have local support, or if money is tight.
“Sometimes there are economic reasons for people coming, and sometimes it’s just because they need company on Christmas Day.
“I do ask that people let me know if they are coming a week before the day, and if they have any particular dietary requirements or need transport, which can be provided.”
Vicki can be contacted on 0458 006 330 and welcomes community support.
Silver success for Barrington Coast
MIDCOAST Council’s tourism brand Barrington Coast has won double silver awards at the prestigious 2024 NSW Tourism Awards in Sydney, with local tourism businesses also among winners and finalists.
The Awards celebrate the businesses delivering exceptional
visitor experiences that showcase the best of New South Wales.
Barrington Coast won silver in the Visitor Information Services category, which recognises excellence in the consistent delivery of high-quality and face-toface information services to the visitor.
The second silver award went to Barrington Coast’s “Whatever It Takes” campaign in the Tourism Marketing and Campaigns category, recognising creativity and innovation in the promotion of tourism products, services and destinations.
“I’m thrilled we have
won double awards for the third time,” said MidCoast Council General Manager Adrian Panuccio.
“These fantastic results continue the strong base for tourism established by Council, having won gold and silver in 2021 and double gold awards in 2022.
“I congratulate our destination experience team and marketing team on their persistence, passion and teamwork, and we thank the key consultants Destination Marketing Store, Leonards Advertising and Fred and Co.”
Destination Barrington Coast was joined by other local tourism businesses in the 2024 awards.
Myall River Camp at Hawks Nest continued their award-winning run with bronze in the Unique Accommodation category, following their gold award at the North Coast Tourism
Awards in August.
Waukivory Estate farm stay near Gloucester was a finalist in that same category.
The NSW Tourism Awards are presented by NSW Tourism Association in partnership with the NSW Government and Destination NSW.
The awards were held at The Star Sydney on Thursday 28 November.
The NSW Tourism Awards represent the pinnacle of recognition in the state’s tourism sector and serves as the only pathway for NSW businesses to compete at the national level.
“As we continue our support for the sustainable growth of local tourism, it’s wonderful to see our tourism destination brand and local tourism businesses successfully represented at this year’s awards,” Mr Panuccio said.
“Congratulations to all winners and finalists.”
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 fostercare system included an investigation into how funds were being used by non-government 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 so-called "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.
q The Christmas lunch set-up waiting for guests.
q Gloucester’s Vicki Harris.
q Deputy Mayor Jeremy Miller with Council GM Adrian Panuccio at the NSW Tourism Awards.
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 Sharpe said.
"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.
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
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.
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.
Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
The Cleaner. (Mal, R)
ABC Late News. 11.50 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)
Grand Designs: The Streets. (Ml, R)
(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.
VICELAND
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.
7TWO (62)
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)
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. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.30 Bewitched. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny.
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)
The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)
Home Shopping. (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)
Plum finally shares his truth.
Shetland. (Mlv, R)
Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 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.
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
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.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, 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)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, 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
6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00
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
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
ABC News.
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) 1.10 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,
FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm MOVIE: Barbie Skipper And The Big Babysitting Adventure. (2023) 1.45 MOVIE: Pokémon: Volcanion And The Mechanical Marvel. (2016) 3.40 World Endurance Championship: Season Review. 4.45 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 5.45 MOVIE: Show Dogs. (2018, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix. (2007, M) 10.15 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.15 MOVIE: L.O.L. Surprise!
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.
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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)
Home Shopping. (R)
Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
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
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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
8.00 Headliners. (PG)
8.55 Solar System With Brian Cox. 9.55 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. 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 Deadly 60. 8.50 Croc Watch With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Doctor Who. 10.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.50 Late Programs.
6am Morning
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.
TUESDAY, December 10
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.
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The Pizza Show. 3.50 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 The UnXplained Mysteries Of The Universe. 9.20 Hoarders.
MOVIES (32)
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.
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. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
RBT. (Mdl, R) 8.30 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mlv, R)
A Killer Makes A Call. (Mav)
Chicago Med. (MA15+amv) 11.30 First On Scene. (Mad)
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Sunday evening for publication on a Wednesday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
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WEDNESDAY, December 11
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.
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.
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SBS MOVIES (32)
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.
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.
7.05
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
AI vs Human: The Creativity Experiment. (R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
FAMILY (22)
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 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.
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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.
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6.00 NBN News.
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.
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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.
Hawley Funerals 02 49921572
Rav4 Cruiser 2007, 214,000 klms, log books, rego 9/5/2025 EXW29N, exc cond $8,500. 0415 678 687
2016 Retreat Brampton 22’. Single beds, 2 solar panels, sat dish, gas
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
From the Mayor’s desk
By Claire PONTIN, MidCoast Mayor
I WOULD like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
As we approach the end of the year and families head off on holidays, I would just like to remind everyone to be safe, make sure you stop, revive, survive if you are taking on long trips.
To get into the festive spirit, Council has kicked off the Ignite the Spirit Christmas Competition.
This encourages local businesses to decorate their shop fronts to entice residents to shop local and there are three absolute great prizes are up for offer for those who participate.
To enter, simply create your colourful Christmas window display, submit up to four photos
by emailing business@midcoast. nsw.gov.au and include your contact details and CHRISTMAS WINDOW DISPLAY in the subject line.
Entry is free and you could win a SOULitude Farm Stay and Co Shea Therapy Gift voucher, a scenic flight with Manning River Aero Club followed by lunch at Wingham’s Bent on Food or a hamper full of local goodies and a $200 Shop MidCoast voucher.
Council is also once again running the Christmas Giving Trees initiative.
If you would like to help someone in need this Christmas, simply drop off any gifts or nonperishable food items to any of our five customer service points at Taree, Forster, Stroud, Gloucester and Tea Gardens.
The items will be distributed to a number of local charities based on the need and item donated.
These will include neighbourhood centres, community kitchens and shelters.
And as the weather warms up water always becomes an important topic.
However, we are happy to report there are currently no
concerns over water availability with Bootawa Dam stable at 99 percent capacity and a higherthan-average rainfall predicted for December to February.
With that in mind water is still our most precious resource and we continue to urge everyone to take it seriously and continue water saving practices.
In more good news about our water supply Council participated in a PFAS sampling program which tested water from all the five water supply systems.
In all cases tests were below detection limits meaning we meet both current and proposed Australian Drinking Water Guideline requirements.
We have recently entered into a contract that will see streetlighting and large Council sites powered by renewable energy.
MidCoast Council joined 12 other regional Councils to be able to secure great financial outcomes due to the buying power.
Locking in energy prices until 2030 shields us from the volatility in the electricity market ensuring long term budget stability.
And when it comes to our finances MidCoast Council is
Entries open for art award
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.
DEAR News Of The Area,
CAN we have a conversation about a disturbing subject?
Can we talk about the naming of the Boolumbahtee river?
Many people know it as the Manning River.
When Robert Dawson named the river after William Manning he was one of the main backers of the Australian Agricultural Company originally set up locally.
Dawson may not
continuing to show encouraging signs of improvement.
The NSW Audit Office has completed its audit of Council’s financial statements, and we have once again received an
There is a twodimensional (2D) category for paintings, drawings or prints on paper or canvas
have known that Manning campaigned in the English Parliament to keep slavery going.
He only relented when they agreed to compensate the slave owners.
Do we really want our great double-delta river system, flowing 261 kilometres from Barrington Tops to the sea, named after a man who supported slavery?
Regards, Tracy DE GEER.
unqualified audit which means all requirements have been met.
This is something we are very proud of, it is a great outcome and shows we are on the right path when it comes to our finances.
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-for-profit cooperative of more than 50 local artists.”
Competition details and entry forms can be found at www.galleriesinthegardens. com.au/andersonartaward
In-Home
Our office will be closed from 12pm Tuesday 24/12/24 to 9am Monday 13/01/25
Meals on Wheels - Last deliveries Tuesday 24/12/24, resuming Monday 13/01/25
Home Care Package & NDIS services - Available throughout the holidays but must be organised with our team before the office closes for the holidays
CHSP services - Unavailable from Tuesday 24/12/24, resuming Monday 13/01/25
Health Transport - Available over the holiday period depending on the availability of Volunteer Drivers Bookings must be organised with our team before the office closes for the holidays Book early to avoid disappointment
Safety Net Programme - Last appointments will be held Thursday 19/12/24, and the last Donated Food Pantry day will be Monday 23/12/24
THE Anderson Art Award, organised by Tea Gardens’ Galleries in the Gardens, is now open for entries.
q Crowds at the Anderson Art Award opening event in 2023.
'Not robots': Woolies says no shortages as staff strike
By Alex MITCHELL, AAP
A UNION heavyweight has thrown her support behind striking Woolworths staff, arguing neither consumers nor workers had reaped the benefits of supermarkets' cost-cutting drives.
ACTU boss Sally McManus on Friday joined a rally for warehouse workers from the grocery giant as they continue their week-long industrial action for better pay and working conditions.
Woolworths denied shelves were beginning to run bare as a result of the strikes, despite 1500 workers across four NSW and Victorian distribution centres downing tools.
While the staff are asking for a pay increase, the United Workers Union also wants Woolworths to abolish a performance framework it says is pushing staff to sacrifice
safety standards in pursuit of faster work.
At a rally outside a western Sydney distribution centre, workers held up placards with slogans like "we're not robots".
The message was a reference to a framework that allocates them a certain time for a task then ranks their performance out of 100, something they say puts undue pressure on them and has a negative impact on wellbeing.
Ms McManus said it was symptomatic of a supermarket industry that chased profit above all else, arguing Woolworths was gouging workers by not agreeing to the improved conditions.
"Everyone has experienced the fact supermarkets already brought in new technology, they have selfcheckout machines, and
what's happened there?
"Have people seen a drop in the prices of the things they're buying in the supermarket? Certainly not.
"All of these things are used, in the end, really just to increase their profits and their profits cannot be increased on the back of the safety of Australian workers."
Woolworths and Coles, which together control about two thirds of the Australian grocery market, have been in the sights of politicians and the consumer watchdog over concerns they were profiteering during a cost-of-living crunch.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recently finished a public inquiry into supermarkets' pricing practices and relationships with suppliers, and is due to produce a final report in
February.
Earlier, Woolworths insisted all stores were still receiving regular stock deliveries, but some were getting their goods less frequently than previously scheduled.
No product limits were in place apart from eggs, which had been rationed for some time following bird flu outbreaks in NSW and Victoria.
The union claimed the strike was already having a huge impact, with "gaping holes" on shelves normally containing household and frozen goods.
The grocer conceded some Victorian, NSW and ACT stores had "limited stock flow" but added extensive contingency plans were minimising the impact on customers.
A Woolworths spokeswoman said the company was working hard to sort out the pay dispute.
SPORTS
"We value our team and are deeply committed to reaching an agreement as quickly as possible so they can receive the benefit of their new pay rates before Christmas," she said.
"We have already put forward several offers with competitive pay that is above industry standards, above local market rates, above inflation, and well above the award."
But union president Jo Schofield warned the strike would persist until Woolworths showed more care for its staff.
"We're going to be out for as long as it takes, it's a fundamental principle for people to come to work, to do their job and work hard… and to go home safely," she said.
"That's why we're out, and we'll be out until Woolworths gets that message loud and clear."
Lions countdown begins
By Ian CHADBAND, AAP
THE Wallabies believe they have provided a stirring response to their critics after making encouraging progress on their Spring tour - and they're already counting down the days to when they can prove they can seriously mix it with the British & Irish Lions.
Barely had the tour-finale 22-19 loss to Ireland been digested than both coaches, Australia's Joe Schmidt and the Lions' Andy Farrell, began banging the drum for what they believe will be a thrilling, competitive series
in eight months' time - and not the calamity for the hosts so many doom-mongers had been predicting.
Asked if their performances on the grand slam tour, with two wins 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'
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 animated - in 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 monster-fighting 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.
before the Lions arrive.
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
"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."
q Woolworths warehouse staff are demanding better pay, working conditions, and safety standards.
Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
Fraser, Higgins in women’s golf wins
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE promise of a very hot day didn't deter the Gloucester Golf Ladies from playing their Summer Competition last Wednesday 27 November.
Myrelle Fraser and Susie Higgins had wins in their respective divisions ahead of their fellow competitors in an early start and a quick finish
thanks to the shorter 12-hole game played over the months of the Summer Competition.
The event was a 12-hole Individual Stableford with Myrelle Fraser winning in Division 1 with 24 points, while Susie Higgins took home the prize for Division 2 with an impressive 28 points.
Balls were won by the increasingly consistent Pat
Burrows, 27, Cheryl Goodrich, 25, and Liane Markey, 24, on a countback.
Pat Burrows took out the Nearest-to-the-Pin-in-Two at the 4th and 13th holes, while no-one managed to hit the green from the tee on the 6th and 15th holes.
Pat's run of good form is coming at the right time, as she heads to Sydney this week
Gloucester Parkrun
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE showers overnight did not deter the 31 walkers and runners who made it to Gloucester's 182nd parkrun
in District Park but the overcast skies kept some of the regulars away.
Locals were joined by visitors from Germany and Sydney, with five
people enjoying their very first parkun - Finn Linke, Katarina Baryschnikov, Lyndy Grey and Gina and Marc Dalmulder.
Welcome! We hope it is the first of many parkruns.
Eli Soupidis was the first male home in a time of 23.07, while second home was visitor Rob Gordon (on his first Gloucester parkrun) who was using it as a warm up for a half marathon in Laurieton later in the day.
The first female was again local Lily Sansom in 26.25.
to play in the Golf NSW Medal State Final at Stonecutters Ridge, after winning her division at the District Final at Kew Golf Club in October.
The Gloucester Lady Golfers continue their Summer Competition on 12hole Individual Stablefords through to late February.
Unusually, there were no personal best times this morning.
“Must be the heavy conditions and head breeze in both directions” was the theory put forward by volunteer Chris Murray.
Speaking of volunteers, thanks to them all - Chris Murray fine tuning his timekeeper skills, and linking in seamlessly with John Watts on tokens and Rod Eckels as scanner.
Pat Burrows was again doing the sweeping role of Tail Walker including collecting the cones on her last lap, ably assisted by Don Richardson.
Queenslanders in huge local golf win
By Peter WILDBLOOD
VISITORS from as far away as Queensland dominated the field in the Saturday 30 November event at the Gloucester Course and it was no surprise that a visiting team turned in the top score albeit a very handsome one,
some five strokes ahead of the field.
The event was the Club’s Annual Back Bar Day and was played in the form of a Four Person Ambrose sponsored by Voltr Electrical represented at presentation by Tahlia and Andrew Sansom
The winning team comprised Jason Andren, Marc Peacock, Justin Beh and Cody Fullerton with a very low score of 52½ and representing their Brisbane club with style. Runners up were Andrew Sansom, Jacob Pickworth, Tim Briggs and Clayton Brown five strokes back at 57½. One of the features of the Back Bar Day is that balls are won by all other players.
Another feature of the day is that Nearest-to-the-Pins are awarded at all holes with the NTP for four par-3 holes is awarded in the standard manner to the player nearest the thole off the tee. At the four par-5 holes the NTP goes to the player closest to the flagstick off their second or, more likely third shot. At the remaining par-4 holes it is the NTP in 2 shots. Awards were won by Paul Blanch at the 1st and 3rd holes, by Ben Veitch at the 2nd and 11th
Gloucester Rifle Club
SUNDAY Target Shoot
24 November 2024
In mild conditions on Sunday November 24 at 600 metres, in free-class fullbore Stuart Kerr ripped a sizzling 104.3, just edging Steve Pennicuik on a ripping 103.1.
In 50 metre rimfire
Lance May ripped a smashing 248, chased hard
by Laurie Smith, Doug Clarke, Stephen Somogyi and Max Shepherd on ripping scores of 242, 240, 238 and 237.
Next shoot will be on Sunday December 8, with only a novelty rimfire from 9am before proceeding to the club Xmas social at the Bowling Club from 12. Visitors to the rifle club
are welcome on normal shoot days, and enquiries regarding club activities and firearms licensing may be made to Steve Pennicuik on 0427059717.
The next Firearms Licensing Course is scheduled for Saturday 1 February 2025 – with early prior bookings with Steve being essential.
Gloucester Men's Bowls Report
By George WISEMANTEL
A FIELD of 28 players fronted on Thursday for the final game of the W. T. Howard sponsored Blind Draw competition with some players showing more interest in the neighbouring scoreboards than their own form.
The winners on the day in a Brotherly grudge match were Mark Tull, Chris Pritchard, Charlie Faulkner who cruised to an easy win over Ian Tull, Adrian Rovere, Michael Way 29-14 (19+15).
Sheridan coming from a 23-14 deficit to win 28-23 (17+5)
After all the excitement and sledging for the past six weeks the major places of the W. T. Howard sponsored Blind Draw competition have been decided with very close margins between the top section of the field.
holes, Alan Nelson at the 3rd and 12th holes, Jacob Pickworth at the 4th and 13th holes, Clayton Brown at the 5th and 14th holes, Cody Fullerton at the 6th and 15th holes, Steve Macdonald at the 7th and 16th holes Brian Osborne at the 8th and 17th holes and by Justin Beh at the 9th and 18th holes.
Dale Rabbett had the longest drive among the women golfers with that honour also going to Paul Blanch in A grade, Jacob Pickworth in B grade and to C Predabon in C grade.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 29 November was won by Anne Wand with an excellent 19 points. She was followed by ball winners Greg West 18, Gai Falla 17, Denver Webb 16 and Rob Moore 15 although Rob needed a countback to separate his score from the pack.
On Saturday 7 December
Runners up were Kevin Everett, Gary Moss, Jai Thompson def Tony Tersteeg, Terry Davies, Rob Cushway 30-16 (18+14), Robert Hayes, Steve Kriss, Nigel Johns def Bob Newitt, Norm McLeod, Don Mehieloff 20-18 (16+2) Stephen Hurworth, Alex Laurie, Harry Cox def Terry Carson, Karl Weiss, Max Stevens 2715 (15+12) and in the only pairs game John Andrews, Jody Thompson proved too strong for George Wisemantel, Paul
George Wisemantel on 16.5 points won narrowly over Alex Laurie, Stephen Hurworth and Don Mehieloff all tallying 16 points to share second and third placings . The presentation will be held after bowls on Thursday 5 December.
Saturday morning mixed bowls saw a victory to Stephen Hurworth, Dennis Bartlett, Julie Kriss (swinger) def Tony Tersteeg, Alex Laurie, Julie Kriss 22-10 (16+12) Adrian Rovere, Bev Murray, Sue Cross def Ian Tull, Di Pritchard, Joy Hurworth 16-14 (15+2) and Steve Kriss, David Hjorth, Ann Andrews def Chris Pritchard, John Andrews, Rob Gibson 1914 (14+5).
Gloucester Pickleball
By BRAD MOORE
THURSDAY saw a good roll up of 10 players.
Close game Michelle/ Lorna vs Mark/ Julienne 8 to 11.
Last games for 2024
the Arkwood Family sponsor the December Monthly Medal, an Individual Stroke event with the Medal going to the top net score across the field and with net and gross trophies in the normal
9th-12th Dec, but there will be Summer comp on Monday mornings at the Rec Centre organised by the U3A group. Big thanks to Ray from U3a for our first year of Pickleball.
three grades. The following Saturday, IGA Gloucester are hosting the Club’s Annual Christmas Cheer Day in the form of an Individual Stableford.
Lady Bowlers Report
By Jennifer BURLEY
AFTER several days of rather warm weather only the hardy few choose to venture out for a social game, 1 team of pairs and 1 Triples with a swinger.
Joan Ridgeway and Jenny Burley played Joy
Hurworth and Di Pritchard and managed 10 ends before calling it a day with a score of 15 to 5 and in the Triples.
Jenny Stevens (swinger), Gina Dalmulder and Bev Murray 10 managed 8 ends over Jenny Stevens Julie Kriss and Bev Germon 6well done girls.
I think the air con in the clubhouse won the day. Thank you to the "other girls" who came for the catch up and morning tea, also a thank you to Joy and Steven who have the urn set up and going each week before the players arrive - much appreciated.
q Starting out.
q Tahlia Sansom Jason Andren, Marc Peacock, Justin Beh, Cody Fullarton, Andrew Sansom.
By Peter WILDBLOOD
SALLY Higgins finished her stroke round of Tuesday 26 November as the only player with a “6” in front of their score, in the first round of the Veteran Golfers Summer Competition.
The event, played in fine hot and steamy conditions, was an Individual Stroke and Putting competition sponsored by Mark Stone; it drew a good field of Veteran Golfers despite the summer weather.
The winner of the event was Sally Higgins with a net score of 69; Ken Kelly’s 82 off the stick was the top gross score on the day. Balls were won by Paul Griffith, Chris Steele and Bill Murray 71, Trevor Sharp 72, Elaine Murray 74 and Max Shepherd 75. Carolyn Davies won the putting competition with a mere 28 putts in her round.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin at the 4th and 13th hole was won by Ken Kelly after he finished 960 cm from the flagstick.
At the 6th and 15th holes Ele Fraser, 1010 cm, and Jim Dunn, 640 cm, were best of the tees.
q Sally Higgins and Mark Stone.