Artist goes wild with colour
By Wendy BUSWELL
CATHERINE Garrod has been painting for over 30 years.
Her style underwent a significant transformation when she moved from the lower Blue Mountains to Smiths Lake six years ago.
“I used to paint with a fairly neutral palette, but since relocating to Smiths Lake, I have gone wild with colour,” Catherine told News Of The Area.
“When complementary colours are placed together, the interaction between the colours creates a type of vibration which creates excitement for the viewer, and I love experimenting with different CONTINUED Page 3
TURN-OFF TROUBLES
By John WATTS
“Further
q Catherine Garrod. Photo: supplied.
John WATTS 0438 346 544 watts@newsofthearea.com.au
Wendy BUSWELL 0415 124 960 wendy@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
EDITOR
02 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au
HORSE HOMES
THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is now taking applications from
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individuals willing to rehome wild horses from Barrington Tops National Park.
Horses will be made available for rehoming as part of the park's management plan to
TURN-OFF TROUBLES
FROM Page 1
timeframe considerations for individual projects within the Pacific Highway corridor.
“Further funding will be needed for project planning, progression and construction work.”
The problem for motorists wanting to turn right onto the highway is particularly acute during holiday periods, with the queue often stretching a long distance up Bucketts Way as drivers wait for a gap in the northbound traffic.
And things could yet get worse with the recent approvals of new gravel quarries that will require all trucks exiting the quarries from Italia Rd to turn north onto the highway, and past the Bucketts Way intersection.
The Stone Ridge quarry approved in December will alone generate 334 truck
movements per day.
“The the junction Pacific of Highway and Bucketts Way is a critical intersection that is in desperate need of an upgrade,” said Dave Layzell, Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, and Gloucester’s local MP.
“This intersection serves the people of the Upper Hunter and especially the residents of Stroud and Gloucester.
“I believe that the very next project after the completion of the M1 extension to Raymond Terrace should be an upgrade of the key Pacific Highway intersections, including Bucketts Way and Medowie Road.
“These intersections are incredibly busy, especially during the school holiday periods.
“From a personal perspective, there are times when I am pulling out on this intersection with a horse float during
the school holidays, and the only way I can describe the experience is a clear sense of fear.
“It is dangerous and it is scary.
“It needs to see planning work urgently and this needs to be promptly followed by an investment of funds to get the process started.”
Former MidCoast
remove all horses to aid environmental recovery and conservation.
For those interested in rehoming horses from Barrington Tops National Park, two forms must be completed:
1. An application to become an approved registered rehomer with NPWS.
2. A specific application to rehome horses from Barrington Tops.
Both forms must be submitted online by Friday, 17 January 2025, and applicants must meet all eligibility requirements.
Applicants who are already approved under the Kosciuszko rehoming program do not need to reapply via the first form.
Rather they should just apply to rehome from Barrington Tops.
Councillor and Gloucester resident Katheryn Stinson has long expressed her concern about the risks associated with turning right from Bucketts Way.
“In my opinion there should be an overpass lane, and I have always voiced my concerns…,” said Ms Stinson.
“Council did ask Transport for NSW to investigate the safety concerns (2021) raised by Council, but they found it
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), following recommendations from the Wild Horse Rehoming Program review, has updated the NPWS horse rehoming guidelines to reduce the risk of adverse welfare outcomes.
The rehoming application process aligns with NPWS's statutory functions, ensuring horse ownership and welfare responsibilities are transferred to approved rehomers upon collection from NPWS temporary holding yards.
More details about the process, including eligibility criteria and rehoming requirements, are available on the Barrington Tops National Park Rehoming webpage.
met the requirements.
“(NSW) Government was developing a Future Growth Strategy for the Pacific Highway, which was to include overpass lanes, and Council wrote and asked that the Bucketts Way intersection be considered for the upgrade as part of the program, but unfortunately, the last I checked, this strategy had gone quiet.”
Bucketts Building
Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Centre
Lovey's IGA
R & R Property
Gloucester Library
Gloucester Caravan Park
Hebbys Bakery
Yates & Twomey
Hannaford Stock & Land Real Estate
Barrington
Barrington Shop
q A wild horse in Barrington Tops National Park. Photo: iNaturalist/James Bennett.
q Vehicles waiting for a chance to turn right from Bucketts Way.
How Gloucester welcomed the new year
By John WATTS
out crowd favourites.
Even a short power failure was not enough to “tear us apart,” or to dampen the enthusiasm of lead singer Simon Kennedy.
Young children were not forgotten, with a wide variety of popular attractions such as jumping castles, slides, laughing clowns and orbs keeping them occupied.
Delicious food for all tastes was on offer, with the menu ranging from gozleme, baked spuds and Thai food, to hot dogs and a variety of desserts.
This was the fourth year the event has been organised by the Gloucester Business Chamber and according to
Artist goes wild with colour
FROM Page 1
combinations.”
Catherine has called her latest exhibition “Colourful Language”.
"Colourful language is generally used to shock or to astound the listener, or in my case, the viewer, particularly when no other words can be found to articulate how I relate to my world,” she said.
The exhibition also contains the work of two sculptors, Tracie Bertram and Geoff Beatty, and artist Julie Plasto.
“I have known Geoff for many years, and only in recent years have I become familiar with Julie’s and Tracie’s work,” Catherine said.
“I just knew that the work created by these highly skilled artists would complement the concept of ‘Colourful Language’ beautifully, and I am grateful to have their work included in my exhibition.”
Catherine emphasised the importance of collaboration among artists, stating that it helps build artistic networks.
“Having the sculptures displayed in the central space of the gallery also creates another experience for the viewer,” she added.
Particia Banyer, the event is getting bigger, with many people travelling to Gloucester just to join the evening’s festivities.
“We had 5000 last year and our estimate [this year] is over 6000, with many people who’ve been before now bringing their friends and relatives,” she said.
“Every year we learn
Tracie, Geoff and Julie all have their own perspective on colour.
In her artist's statement, Tracie describes colour as “both familiar and mysterious at the same time”.
“It is often the
first thing I am drawn to, and it shapes the way I feel about the world,”
she stated.
Julie said she is “mindful of the strength that colour adds” to the power of her mostly figurative paintings.
“I like to create mood rather than emotion through my use of colour,” she said.
Geoff has chosen to use plywood for this exhibition rather than his usual materials of brass and steel.
The sculptures on show in “Colourful Language” are a departure from the patinated browns and rusty hues usually associated with his metal pieces.
Colourful Language can be viewed at the Gloucester Gallery until 26 January 2025.
something to keep making it bigger and better, and we hope to start combining it with something the following morning, such as a selection of food vans.”
The evening concluded at 9.30pm with a spectacular sixteen-minute fireworks display that really wowed the crowd.
THE storms that were threatening earlier in
the afternoon failed to materialise, and certainly didn’t deter the excited revellers gathering in
Gloucester District Park to welcome the new year.
The main entertainment was provided by the INXS
tribute band, “Live Baby Live”, which got the mosh pit going as they pumped
q The band in full flight. Photo supplied.
q The mosh pit was for all ages. Photo supplied.
q Spectacular fireworks display. Photo: Julie Samerski.
Increased fire danger
THE Rural Fire Service (RFS) is warning residents of an increased risk of bush and grass fires across the Mid Coast and Port Macquarie local government areas (LGAs).
RFS Superintendent Ugo Tolone said hot and dry weather and increased fuel loads across the region are causing concern.
"Current weather, considering light falls of rain, is generating hot and unsettled conditions into the weekend, with moderate to high fire danger ratings across the Hunter and Mid Coast,” Tolone said last week. As a result, fire permits were suspended in the Mid Coast and Port Macquarie local government areas from
Homegrown talent impresses
AROUND 60 people recently enjoyed the Gloucester Creatives’ “Homegrown” music festival. "It was perfect weather in our beautiful courtyard as four Gloucesterraised musicians impressed us with their talents," said organiser Leanne Barrett.
The evening began with 12-year-old Travis McLachlan-Ifield who performed with a confidence beyond his years.
Travis was followed by three musicians who grew
up and began their musical careers in Gloucester.
Charles Tonks, Will Bowden and Tink Everett each gave a performance that delighted the crowd with their playing and songwriting skills and charmed with their storytelling.
"It was a wonderful night in a magical setting,” said Leanne, "we hope that this is just one of many events people can enjoy at Gloucester Creatives."
q Charles Tonks.
midnight 4 January 2025.
The suspension is set to end at midnight 10 January 2025.
"Every landholder should be prepared for fire and have firefighting equipment on hand, such as a full knapsack, spray pumper or a handheld chemical fire extinguisher, each in good working order,” Tolone said.
Superintendent Tolone said grass fires travel much faster than bush fires because grass ignites so quickly.
"Mid Coast and Port Macquarie Hastings residents need to ensure they have an up-to-date bush fire survival plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens their property."
The RFS provides the
following advice about protecting properties from grass fires:
- Put fire breaks in place around assets and standing crops as well as boundary fences.
- Check your farm equipment is in good order and is ready to deal with a fire.
- Be aware that slasher and mower blades can spark if they strike rocks or metal, causing dry grass to ignite.
- Register Static Water
Supply sources on your property, such as dams, swimming pools and water tanks with the RFS, which will assist firefighters in a fire emergency.
"Every landholder has a legal responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences if people light fires and leave them unattended."
For more information and resources, visit www.rfs.nsw. gov.au/plan-and-prepare.
q The Homegrown performers.
q Will Bowden
q Tink Everett.
q Travis McLachlan-Ifield.
Nursing support for all, no matter the cancer type
By Kat WONG, AAP
AUSTRALIANS
living with any kind of cancer will find it easier to get support as a proven breast cancer model is expanded to all.
The federal government has committed $2.3 million to the McGrath Foundation to expand an online tool that connects patients with expert cancer care nurses.
Originally intended for Australians with breast cancer, the 'find a nurse' tool will soon be able to help patients experiencing other types of cancer as well.
Health Minister Mark Butler made the announcement on Sunday just a few hundred metres from the Sydney Cricket
Ground, where sports fans transformed the stands into a sea of pink to raise money for the foundation at one of the nation's most prominent cancer events.
"We are determined to make sure that there is equity in cancer treatment... no matter the cancer type," he told reporters.
Since 2009, the third day of Australian cricket's Sydney Test in January has paid tribute to Jane McGrath, the cancer support advocate who cofounded the breast cancer charity with her husband, cricket legend Glenn McGrath.
During her breast cancer journey, Mrs McGrath said having access to a breast care nurse was "like having someone hold my hand through one of the worst nightmares of my life".
She was determined that every family would have access to the same breast care she received.
When she died in 2008
at the age of 42, leaving behind two children, she had secured funding for 50 breast cancer nurses, leaving the foundation on track to carry out her mission.
The McGrath Foundation recently expanded its scope to provide care for all cancer patients, after the federal government in 2023 provided millions to help the charity recruit 100 more specialised nurses.
The 2025 Sydney Test, also known as the Pink Test, is the first iteration of the annual event to support care for all cancers.
"The fact that now we can take our care to anyone with any type of cancer is something I find very special," Mr McGrath told reporters.
"To me, this is a test match of celebration - a celebration of life, but also of hope - that when things are tough, life can still be good and continue on."
q McGrath Foundation Co-Founder and President Glenn McGrath saluted the crowds at the Test on Sunday. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
Evolving world water cycle threatens Australia
By Marion RAE, AAP
DEADLY floods, cyclones and droughts are wreaking havoc as record-breaking temperatures change the way water moves around the world, scientists warn.
Water-related disasters killed thousands of people, displaced millions and caused losses exceeding
$US550 billion in 2024, according to an international study released on Monday.
The outlook for 2025 signals the greatest risk of developing or deepening drought in western Australia, the Americas and southern Africa, while other areas could face greater flood risks.
Ongoing climate change increases the potential for flash floods, flash droughts, intense storms and heatwaves across many regions, according to the 2024 Global Water Monitor.
"But it's not on people's agenda until your house burns or washes away, or you don't have water coming
out of the tap," lead author Professor Albert van Dijk told AAP.
Australia's experience with climate extremes, flash floods and bushfires makes us a little more resilient, Australian National University's Prof van Dijk said.
"But the extremes are also getting more extreme," he said, calling for better flood defences, more drought-resilient food production and water supplies and better early warning systems.
Half of the world's population - four billion people across 111 countries - experienced their warmest
year yet amid a worsening trend of more intense and localised flash floods, prolonged droughts and record-breaking extremes, the report found.
"Heat is also a major issue for Australians," Prof van Dijk said, as climate extremes alter the world water cycle of how water gets from the sky to the land and back again.
"The unfortunate truth is that even if we stopped emitting greenhouse gases right now, we would still be stuck with climate change for several decades," he said.
The most damaging water-related disasters of the past year included
flash floods, river floods, droughts, tropical cyclones and landslides including the devastation in Papua New Guinea's Enga Province in May.
The research team used data from thousands of ground stations and satellites orbiting the earth to capture insights on rainfall, soil moisture, river flows and flooding.
Air temperatures over land in 2024 were 1.2C warmer than at the start of the century, and about 2.2C higher than at the start of the Industrial Revolution.
The number of recordhigh monthly average temperatures in the 4687 river catchments worldwide was the highest in the 45year record and 9.3 times the 1995 to 2005 average.
New records were set for
annual maximum temperature in 34 countries and hot days in 40 countries.
The Australia West Coast and Lake Eyre basins were among the 21 river basins with record-high annual discharge values.
Twenty-eight countries had record-high annual minimum temperatures, while unusually high annual minimum temperatures were recorded in 16 countries including in Polynesia.
Four countries recorded record-low annual soil moisture levels, including Samoa.
Oceania also showed record surface water extent, or inundation, in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Micronesia and Vanuatu.
Globally, the number of frost days was the lowest on record while annual minimum temperatures were increasing, especially in the tropics.
Essential grants
ESSENTIAL Energy will launch its 2025 Essential Grants program when applications are called from Monday 3 February.
Eligible groups including not-forprofit organisations, charities and community groups located within Essential Energy’s network area of Gloucester, Stroud and Dungog are encouraged to apply.
Grants up to the value of $15,000 are available for community-based
initiatives supporting the environment, education, resilience or related to the energy transition.
The program aims to assist eligible community groups contributing towards positive outcomes for regional communities.
Nominations for the Essential Grants Program close on Monday 31 March with more information from www.essentialenergy.com.au/ essentialgrants.
q Climate change is increasing the potential for flash floods, droughts, intense storms and heatwaves. Photo: Dan Himbrechts, Darren Pateman/AAP PHOTOS.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
NBN, 8.30pm
Smith netted a well-deserved statue for his role as the driven and visionary Richard Williams, father of tennis legends Serena and Venus. Set in the 1990s, Richard completely sacrifices his own goals and ambitions to ensure that his two daughters would become two of the best players to ever set foot on court. While the film reportedly embellishes real-life events for dramatic purposes, this is a compelling portrait of parental love in the form of obsession, with the only critique being that by focusing so much on Richard we don’t really learn anything about the sisters and their own hardships. But even so, King Richard is an ace.
6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (PG, R) 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Secret History Of The British Garden: The 17th Century. (R) Presented by Monty Don.
8.30 Murder In Provence. (Mav, R) Marine helps Antoine and Hélène investigate the death of an aristocrat, found dead at his chateau.
10.00 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World: Rome. (PG, R)
10.50 Grand Designs. (R)
11.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
SUNDAY
SCREAM VI
TEN, 9.30pm
You’d think the Scream formula would be getting tired by the sixth outing, but this subversive slasher franchise keeps finding new ways to innovate and entertain, with this latest entry moving the bloody mayhem to New York City. Set a year after the last movie, we find sisters Sam (Melissa Barrera) and Tara (Jenna Ortega) in the Big Apple to attend college, and once again being menaced by someone (or is that multiple someones?) in the Ghostface costume. The list of suspects stretches to more than a dozen in this sequel, which features more brutal kills than ever before, and has a setpiece involving a ladder escape between two buildings that ranks as one of the series’ best ever moments. Horror fans will lap up the gruesome thrills on offer here.
WEDNESDAY CHANGING ENDS
ABC TV, 8.30pm
This delightful nostalgic throwback opens a door to 1987, when comedian Alan Carr was struggling with school bullies and the highs and lows of fourth division football in Northampton. Season two draws to a close tonight, with the stress of the Cobblers’ spot at the top of the ladder – and their potential promotion – weighing heavily on dad Graham (Shaun Dooley). Eager to get some peace, mum Christine (Nancy Sullivan) ignores the protests of the football manager and takes the family on a caravan minibreak in Great Yarmouth, where a chance meeting with a like-minded soul livens up the trip for young Alan (Oliver Savell). This coming-of-age comedy is in a league of its own.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: The Prestige. (2006, Mav, R)
9.55 Rock Legends: Elton John. (PGd)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Every Family Has A Secret. (Final, PG, R)
11.55 De Gaulle. (Mv)
12.50 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)
2.45 Grayson’s Art Club. (PG, R)
3.35 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.25 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 29. Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Thunder.
10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder. 11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) Adam Dovile tours Singapore’s culture.
12.30 The Real Manhunter: The Bus Stop Killer Levi Bellfield. (Madv, R) Takes a look at Levi Bellfield.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Find My Beach House Australia.
8.30 MOVIE: King Richard. (2021, Malv) Charts how Venus and Serena Williams became who they are thanks to the coaching of their father Richard. Will Smith, Saniyya Sidney.
11.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mm, R)
12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.10 Delish. (R)
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 Drive TV. (R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: The First Wives Club. (1996, PGal, R) Three spurned women plot revenge. Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler. 9.35 MOVIE: Starsky & Hutch. (2004, Mdlv, R) Two bumbling yet streetwise cops investigate a drug-running cartel with the help of their trusty informant. Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson. 11.40 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)
KING RICHARD
SATURDAY, January 11
6.00 Brian Cox: Life Of A Universe: Creation. (R) English physicist Professor Brian Cox sets out in search of a greater understanding of the cosmos.
6.30 Back Roads: Andamooka And Roxby Downs, South Australia. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa) Humphrey investigates a strange case.
8.30 Vera. (Mv, R) Vera investigates when a family man is murdered the day before he was due to testify in court.
10.00 Shetland. (Final, Mal, R)
11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley
6.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG) 6.30 News.
7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland.
8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres. (R)
9.20 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PG, R)
10.20 Great Australian Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.25 Mister8. (MA15+a, R) 1.35
Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 2.30 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.45
Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: International. (PGadl) A case of mistaken identity causes alarm.
7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990, PGlv, R) Marty McFly travels to the Old West. Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd. 10.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998, Mlv, R) An autistic boy cracks a government code. Bruce Willis.
12.25 MOVIE: Deadly Seduction. (2021, MA15+av)
2.30 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: Rams. (2020, PGalv) A feud between brothers comes to a head. Sam Neill.
9.50 MOVIE: Just A Farmer. (2024, Maln)
11.50 MOVIE: Avarice. (2022, Malv, R)
1.30 Country House Hunters Australia. (PG, 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 Summer Series. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 8.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) Dogs are matched with companions. A basset hound is on the prowl for a new owner. Second chances are in store for a Jack Russell puppy. A couple have to see past a pooch’s size to find a place for it. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems. 10.45 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) Someone threatens to use a nerve agent. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am The
Bookshop. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.15 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 10.00 The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 12.20pm Wild Target. (2010, M) 2.10 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) 4.20 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 6.35 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 8.30 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 10.30 The Girlfriend Experience. (2009, M) Midnight Cousins. (2021, M) 1.50 Late Programs.
SUNDAY, January 12
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. (Ml)
8.30 Miniseries: Until I Kill You. (Mal) Charts the story of Delia Balmer, who survived a series of violent attacks to pursue a traumatic journey to justice.
10.05 You Can’t Ask That: Porn Stars. (MA15+s, R) Porn stars share their insights. 11.10 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (1976, Madls, R)
1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.10 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.05 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.05 The Great Acceleration. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts. (PGa, R)
8.25 Asia’s Ancient Civilisations. (PG, R)
10.15 Putin And The West. (Ma, R)
11.25 Michael Mosley’s 21 Day Body Challenge. (PG, R)
2.10 Love Your Garden. (R)
3.05 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PGa, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Thief Lord. Continued. (2006, PG) 6.50 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 9.05 Funny Face. (1957) 11.00 Radioactive. (2019, M) 1.05pm Cousins. (2021, M) 2.55 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 4.35 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988, PG) 6.40 After Yang. (2021, PG) 8.30 Knight Of Cups. (2015, M) 10.40 Let Me Go. (2023, French) 12.30am The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 2.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 32. Melbourne Renegades v Melbourne Stars. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. (R) A look at the death of Amy Wensley.
12.00 The Duke And I. (PG, R) A look at Prince Philip’s influence.
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Wild Manes. 8.30 Children’s Programs. 1.55pm MOVIE: The Black Stallion Returns. (1983) 3.55 MOVIE: Combat Wombat. (2020, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: Monster Family. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. (2016, M) 10.10 MOVIE: The Campaign. (2012, MA15+) Midnight The Originals. 2.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 3.00 Late Programs.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 1. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 1. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) Bloom, Iggy and Reynolds rally around Max.
1.00 First On Scene. (Mav, R) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) The team roadtests the Mizuno ST220 drivers.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Today.
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news.
7.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by celebrities including Cher, Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley and Josh Brolin. 9.30 MOVIE: Scream VI. (2023, MA15+lv) Four survivors from the most recent Woodsboro killings move to New York City for a fresh start. Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega. 11.55 The Sunday Project. (R) 1.00
6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Geelong United v Perth Lynx. 2.30
And
(2023,
You, Me, And That
4.15
Penguins. (2023) 6.00
You,
Austn
1. 7.00 MOVIE: Doctor Dolittle. (1998, PG) 8.45 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987, M) 11.00 Gotham. Midnight Arrow. 2.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 The Weekend
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
6.00
MONDAY,
January 13
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 8.35 Hard
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PGl, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Mystery Of Blackbeard’s Lost Treasure. (PGav, R)
8.25 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You.
9.20 Inside Sydney Airport. (PGal, R)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Clean Sweep. (Madlsv)
11.40 Wisting. (MA15+a, R)
12.35 Faking Hitler. (Mns, R)
2.25 Grayson’s Art Club. (PG, R)
3.20 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (Return, PGav)
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 33. Sydney Thunder v Perth Scorchers. From ENGIE Stadium, Sydney.
11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Sydney Thunder and Perth Scorchers. 11.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG)
A driver gets sleepy and goes bush. 12.00 Satisfaction. (MA15+ads, R) Simon is faced with a family mystery.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 2. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 2. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) Iggy tries online dating.
1.00 First On Scene. (Mad, R) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts discusses golf.
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves. (2023, Mav) A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers undertake an epic heist to retrieve a lost relic. Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez. 10.20 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.45 The Project. (R)
TUESDAY, January 14
6.00
(R) 10.00 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. (Ml, R)
ABC Late News. 11.20 Murder In Provence. (Mav, R) 12.50 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 1.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R)
8.40 Came From Nowhere. (Ml, R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a)
11.55 Christian. (Malv, R)
3.00 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mas, R)
3.55 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 9.15 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 11.10 The Girlfriend Experience. (2009, M) 12.35pm The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 2.35 Alone In Space. (2018, PG, Swedish) 4.10 Belle. (2013, PG) 6.00 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 7.55 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 9.30 The Silver Brumby. (1993, PG) 11.20 Late Programs. 6am Alone In Space. Continued. (2018, PG, Swedish) 6.45 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 8.40 After Yang. (2021, PG) 10.30 Let Me Go. (2023, French) 12.20pm Knight Of Cups. (2015, M) 2.30 The Silver Brumby. (1993, PG) 4.20 Red Obsession. (2013, PG) 5.50 Meditation Park. (2017, PG) 7.40 Joyride. (2022, M) 9.30 The Sum Of Us. (1994) 11.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 34. Hobart Hurricanes v Melbourne Renegades. 11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game.
11.30 Lockerbie. (PGav, R) The CIA hand over a Libyan double agent.
12.35 Underarm: The Ball That Changed Cricket. (PGl, R) A look at the 1981 underarm bowling controversy.
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 3. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late
WEDNESDAY, January 15
6.00
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Doctor Who. 10.10 Mythbusters
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor. (PG, R)
8.30 Michael Palin: Into Iraq. (PGa, R)
9.25 The Night Manager. (MA15+v)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av)
11.50 Rogue Heroes. (Malv, R)
12.50 Soldiers. (Malsv, R)
2.35 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mal, R)
3.30 Make Me A Dealer. (PGl, R) 4.20 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 35. Adelaide Strikers v Sydney Sixers. From Adelaide Oval. 11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game. 11.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) A climber’s fall is captured on bodycam. 12.30 Black-ish. (PGd, R) Bow and Dre meet Michelle Obama.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 4. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 4. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mams, R) Max mandates a personal health day.
1.00 First On Scene. (Ma) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts banter about golf.
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
6.00
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. (2016, Mlv, R) Jack Reacher helps an army officer. Tom Cruise.
9.55 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather.
10.20 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.
6am Belle.
Continued. (2013, PG) 6.55 Meditation Park. (2017, PG) 8.45 The Silver Brumby. (1993, PG) 10.35 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 12.10pm The Quiet Girl. (2022, M, Gaelic) 1.55 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 3.55 Lola. (1961, PG, French) 5.30 The Last Wave. (1977,
THURSDAY, January 16
R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PG, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Plat Du Tour. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Silk Road From Above. (PGa, R)
9.30 The Darkness. (M)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 DNA. (Malv)
11.50 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlnsv, R)
12.45 Blanca. (Malnv, R)
2.45 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Ms, R) 3.40 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.30 Peer To Peer. (PGv, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 36. Brisbane Heat v Hobart Hurricanes. From the Gabba, Brisbane. 11.00 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. A deep dive into the world of cricket. 11.45 Pam & Tommy. (MA15+als) Pam is pushed to the emotional brink. 12.45 Black-ish. (PGa, R) Jack gets a job as a locker room attendant.
1.40 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 5. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 5. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Ma, R)
11.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE:
French) 8.35 Red Obsession. (2013, PG) 10.05 Joyride. (2022, M) 11.55 The Sum Of Us. (1994) 1.50pm Meditation Park. (2017, PG) 3.35 The Crossing. (2020, PG, Norwegian) 5.30 December Boys. (2007, PG) 7.30 The Bridges Of Madison County. (1995, M) 10.00 A Beautiful Mind. (2001, M) 12.30am Late Programs.
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Sunday evening for publication on a Wednesday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
WEISMANTEL, Colin
Late of Stroud.
Formerly of Gloucester & Weismantel’s. Passed away peacefully on 31st December 2024.
Aged 97 years
Beloved husband of Leah (dec). Loving father & father in-law to Robin & Bob, Fay & Geoff, Tony & Pam, Ruth & John.
Proud and loving grandfather & greatgrandfather to all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Colin’s funeral service to be held at the Uniting Church, Gloucester on Tuesday 14th January 2025 commencing at 11am prior to interment in the Stroud Cemetery.
ads@newsof thearea.com.au newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
We have a family of magpies that visit each day and my daughter has started feeding them.
They are becoming very familiar and have even started coming into the house.
Should we encourage this friendship?
Helene G.
Dear Helene,
Magpies are incredibly smart and social creatures and they can be an absolute delight to have in your garden.
Their warbling chorus is as characteristically Australian as the raucous laughter of kookaburras.
On the other hand, magpies can be territorial assailants, swooping and attacking screaming children and cyclists who dare to venture in their path.
It sounds as though you've made friends with your magpies and they have made your home theirs.
As an interesting aside, magpies have exceptional memories and recognise faces, so they know your daughter and they now associate her with their meal ticket.
The problem is, when wildlife becomes dependent on humans, it can cause all sorts of issues.
Many people feed birds
thinking they are doing something positive, but there are many foods that they shouldn't eat.
Magpies, for example, should not be fed many of the common foods people feed them such as mince, cheese or bread.
Feeding them also impacts their behaviour, as you have found, with this well-fed family of magpies coming into your home and expecting a free meal when they should be outside honing their survival skills.
The best option is to have plenty of water for the birds and other wildlife in your garden and let them do their own hunting and gathering.
That way you can enjoy their antics and sounds while knowing you aren't harming them in any way.
Boot Camp
: Spot the difference
Picture B - Crossbones moved down, yellow braid missing from collar on coat, frill on shirt wider, parrot at the right missing his cup and extra toe on parrot at the left. Sweet or suite, sweet by the way
1 = plane, 2 = break,
Kids Boot Camp 028
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
By Claire PONTIN MidCoast Mayor
I HOPE you all had a joyful, safe and restful holiday season, surrounded by loved ones.
As we step into this new year,
many families are still enjoying the holiday spirit, with schools set to return later this month.
For those looking for fun activities to do with the kids, be sure to check out the fantastic events and programs happening at our local libraries.
You can find all the details on our library page at https://library. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Home.
Also, don’t forget about our beautiful hinterland towns and countryside if you are looking to spend the day away from the tourist hotspots. They have much to offer.
Council staff are back and ready for action in 2025 delivering outcomes to the community across our whole gamut of services.
At the last Council meeting, I introduced a motion that was supported by my fellow Councillors to help set us up for some early wins this year in fixing our roads.
This builds on the work we began back in 2022 when I called for the development of a strategic plan for our road network.
That vision became reality in the form of the MidCoast Road
NEWS
Olympians join Gloucester parkrun
By John WATTS
YOU certainly don’t need to be an elite athlete to take part in the Gloucester parkrun.
Its philosophy is explained on its website as “a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5km community event.”
But being a champion sportsperson is also no reason not to take part.
On Saturday, 28 December, Gloucester’s regular parkrunners and walkers were joined by
two former Olympians and someone who has run a marathon in less than 2hrs 30mins.
One former Olympian was Damian Martin who was born and bred in Gloucester.
Damian played professional basketball for the Perth Wildcats, and was a member of the Boomers basketball team at the 2016 Olympics.
He won the NBL’s Best Defensive Player Award six times.
This was only Damian’s second parkrun, and his first in Gloucester.
In 2008, Bree Bryant, who now lives in Melbourne, was selected as a diving member of the 2008 Australian Olympic team.
She competed in the 3m and 10m synchronised events, and won a silver medal before a crowd of 20,000 people.
The crowd was not quite as large when Bree joined 79 others for her 268th parkrun - her third in Gloucester.
After retiring from diving, Bree looked around for ways to stay fit and decided that running was for her.
“The challenge of running and pushing yourself, the satisfaction of achieving a goal or getting a personal best (PB), and now being a mum
Strategy, which was presented in 2024.
We now must start delivering actions to address the problems we know we have.
I’ve asked Council staff to prepare a draft four-to-ten-year plan for our road maintenance and repairs budget and to investigate options to enable another oneoff contribution toward road improvements in the 2025-26 budget.
We’ll also be reviewing sources of income allocated to roads over the past three years so we can track our future progress.
of two little kidlets running is the best ‘me’ time,” Bree told Running Mum’s Australia in 2019.
Her husband Tim has taken part in 186 parkruns, and has completed a marathon in 2hrs 25mins 20secs.
Tim finished first in this Gloucester parkrun in the record time of 15m 43secs, which was also his PB.
It was a good day for PBs, with 20 competitors achieving theirs.
Times ranged from 15m 43secs to 49m 53secs, demonstrating what an inclusive event parkrun is.
For ten participants it was their very first Gloucester parkrun.
Fixing our roads will take time, planning, and careful management.
We’re dealing with years of neglect, and it’s going to require a sustained effort and careful consideration of our spending priorities to bring about the improvements our community deserves.
We will be recommencing our program of community consultations with our new Councillors in the next few months.
Together, we can make 2025 a year of progress.
q Bree Bryant in diving action. Photo: Facebook
q Boomer Damian Martin. Photo: supplied.
More to do on Medicare and bulk-billing, Labor says
By Poppy JOHNSTON, AAP
MAKING it cheaper to see a doctor is expected to feature prominently in Labor's election pitch, with the federal health minister committed to strengthening Medicare before the upcoming campaign.
"There's more we want to do to deliver - more doctors, more bulk-billing and more urgent care," Health Minister Mark Butler told reporters in Adelaide on Thursday.
Voters are due to head to the polls by May at the latest, with political campaigning expected to kick into gear in coming months.
Responding to speculation the government is planning a boost to the bulk-billing incentive paid to GPs, more urgent care clinics, and other changes to the public healthcare system, Mr Butler said he had no new announcements to make yet.
"But the Australian people can be very, very
assured that the Labor government will always do what it can to strengthen Medicare," he said.
In 2023, Labor committed $3.5 billion towards bulk-billing incentives, making healthcare more affordable for children under 16, pensioners and other concession card holders.
Australian Medical Association vice president Associate Professor Julian Rait said the funding injection was helping but more could be done to lower costs and improve access for the rest of the population.
"Because obviously those bulk-billing incentives are targeted to, quite rightly, lower income earners," he told AAP.
"But also we need to
SPORTS
Lachlan Smith in Golf Medal Win
By Peter WILDBLOOD
THERE was a good-sized field at the Gloucester Golf Club on Saturday 4 January and the scores turned in reflected top performances all round with Lachlan Smith turning in a net score six under handicap and all ball winners with cards at handicap par or better.
The day was on the warm side and dry even after the rain a day or so earlier so there was a bit of run on the
course… a good thing if the ball is hit towards the green!
The event was the January Medal, an Individual Stroke event sponsored by the Arkwood Family; the Medal goes to the lowest net score across the field and there are trophies for the best net and gross scores in each grade and for women competitors.
The January Medal was won by Lachlan Smith with a net score of 66 which also gave him a win in the C
grade net competition while Ryan Yates, 91, picked up the trophy for the top gross score in the grade.
In A grade Rob Edwards’ 72 was the top net score beating Paul Blanch b y a favourable count back. Paul’s consolation was a trophy for the top gross score in the grade; his 71 attracted an additional stroke in the net event owing to his handicap of +1. In B grade Brendon Murray’s net 68 after a gross 84 saw him pick up
think about the structure of the Medicare system overall, and how best we can improve affordability for everybody," he said.
Prof Rait backed strengthening rebates provided to GPs, particularly for longer consultations.
Alternatively, the association supports some form of block funding to make it easier to manage patients with chronic illnesses and other timeconsuming conditions.
Mr Butler said there would always be a fees-forservice element to Medicare but he was in favour of a blended model that includes general or bundled payments as well.
Swinburne University of Technology public health scientist Evie Kendal said the cost of visiting the doctor was part of the problem but access was another pain point.
"The cost of going to the doctor is one thing that might stop you from going, particularly if you're also taking time off work to get there, that might cost you again," Dr Kendal told AAP.
"But again, if it's that you can't even get an appointment this week, then that's another problem altogether," she added.
She recommended a focus on training and development to bring more GPs and healthcare professionals into the field.
Dr Kendal said the federal election posed an opportunity to pressure the government on healthcare issues but urged politicians not to use Medicare reform to "score points".
"We don't want our healthcare to be treated as if it is something that can be bounced back and forth for political gain," she said.
The federal opposition has accused Labor of attempting to reheat the infamous "Mediscare" campaign.
Opposition health spokeswoman Anne Ruston said Labor was "playing politics" and the coalition "always has, and always will, invest in Medicare".
Mr Butler took aim at the opposition leader's track record on healthcare policy rather than any present-day coalition policy.
"Well, you just have to look at Peter Dutton's record as health minister, which, frankly, is pretty scary," Mr Butler said on Thursday.
both trophies in the grade. Similarly, Dale Rabbett won the women’s net and gross trophies with 73 and 90 respectively.
Balls were won by Lachlan Smith 66, Brendon Murray 68, Ryan Yates, Paul Griffiths 69, John Parish, Paul Garland 71, Brian McInnes, Rob Edwards, Paul Blanch and Geoff Reynolds 72.
The Nearest-to-the-Pin trophies at the 4th and 13th holes were won by Paul Blanch in A grade, Mark Stone
in B grade and Paul Griffiths in C grade; they finished 100 cm, 482 cm and 404 cm from the hole respectively. At the 6th and 15th holes Paul Blanch, 955 cm, backed up for a second NTP trophy in A grade. Brendon Murray, 482, was best in B grade and Ryan Yates, 590 cm, did the job in C grade. Dale Rabbett was the closest of the women competitors finishing 906 cm from the hole.
The long drive trophies at the 8th and 17th holes were won by Nathan McInnes, Brendon Murray and Ryan Yates, representing the three men’s grades while Anne Wand was the best at
the holes among the club’s women competitors.
The Super Sevens for the week ending Friday 3 January was won by Jim Dunn with a score of 18 points.
He was followed by ball winners Mark Garner 16, Wayne Maddalena 15, Dave Mann, Max Shepherd and Derek Wand 14
On Saturday 11 January the Lower North Coast District Golf Association will be sponsoring an Individual Stableford and the following Saturday Gloucester Tyre and Auto will sponsor a Individual Stableford.
q Labor wants more doctors and more bulk-billing, Health Minister Mark Butler told reporters. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.
Gloucester Croquet
By Bev MURRAY
GLOUCESTER Croquet celebrated the end of the 2024 year with a good roll-up meeting at Club Gloucester for fellowship over drinks followed by a delicious traditional Christmas lunch.
Dessert followed.
President Ashleigh Hickman then gave a brief round up of what had been another successful and enjoyable year both within our Mid North Coast group and at club level.
She concluded by expressing thanks to all for their contribution and participation, mentioning particularly the participation and success of some of our newer members.
Ashleigh then presented medals to the winners of our main club competitions for the year.
Club Champion (singles): Ken Gosson, with the runner-up Chris Sims.
Handicap Singles: Winner: Greg Bell with the Runner-up again Chris Sims.
The Club Doubles, also a handicapped event, was won by Ashleigh Hickman and Greg Bell while the runners-up were Bev Fagan and Chris Sims.
Another noteworthy winner for the 2024 year was Chris Sims who, together with his drawn partner from the Forster club, won their block in the 3rd Gloucester Masters Games, played in November.
This was Chris’ second win, having been a winner in his Block last year.
Ashleigh congratulated the winners and wished all a safe and Happy Christmas.
Golf Captain Bev then reiterated by adding her congratulations to the winners and runners up, whilst also acknowledging all members for their participation.
Bev thanked particularly those who had assisted with competition preparation, timekeeping and the many tasks associated with competition preparation.
She concluded by wishing all a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
Croquet will now be in recess until 26th January 2025.
This is to allow for necessary court maintenance.
Organised croquet will resume with an Australia Day Tea, with social activities, followed by social golf play.
This is a free afternoon and open to all who would like to join in or just come and watch.
The starting time is 4.00pm.
To assist with catering please message President Ashleigh 0409 323867 or Bev 0458 581627 by 21st January.
Croquet is for everyone so why not make this year your time to give it a try.
For more information, please call Ash or Bev.
Billy doesn’t have what he needs for school.
Gloucester Men's Bowls Report
By George WISEMANTEL
A GOOD field of 34 players survived the Christmas festivities to play on Thursday with all games being evenly contested.
The winners were Stephen Hurworth, Don Mehieloff, Alex Laurie def Robert Hayes, Gary Moss, Norm McLeod 26-21 (18+5) runners up were Mark Groves, Andrew Henderson, Karl Weiss def Adam Clements, Vic Hebblewhite, Paul Sheridan 24-17 (17+7) Stephen Higgins, Brian Holstein, Dennis Bartlett
def Mark Tull, Peter Jones, Brian Ribbons (on debut) 2421 (16+3) Kevin Everett, Adrian Rovere, Chris Pritchard def Aaron Kelly, Rob Heininger, Jim Gretch 21-19 (15+2) Neville Atkins, Peter Sansom, Harry Cox played a 26 all draw in a game where two sixes and one eight were scored in the game against Michael Sheely, Craig Yates, Phil Ellis, and in a pairs game Ian Tull, Rob Cushway def Stephen Kriss, Col Beattie 20-18 (14+2) Saturday mixed bowls had a smaller than usual field of fourteen with George
Wisemantel,Dennis Bartlett def Adrian Rovere, Judy Sheely 23-8 (17+15) Di Pritchard, Jill Everett, Debbie Cushway def John Andrews, Sue Cross, Jenny Stevens 15-10 (13+3) and Tony Tersteeg, Terry Davies, Rob Cushway had a close battle def Kevin Everett, Chris Pritchard, Anne Andrews 14-13 (11+1)
The entry sheet is on the board for the Australia Day Blind Draw Bowls with single entries only requested and a 9.30 am start followed by the usual Aussie Day BBQ.
Gloucester parkrun results
By Carolyn DAVIES
THE new year's resolution of getting more exercise must be still holding true with 78 walkers and runners at Gloucester's 188th parkrun in Gloucester District Park on a sunny Saturday 4 January.
Gloucester locals were joined by visitors from Newcastle, Wollongong, Port Macquarie and Lake Macquarie - and a couple from New Zealand who were conceded, by the visitors from Western Australia, the rights to boast of travelling the furthest.
Five people were enjoying their very first parkun - Anna Schroeder, Jereon Prinsen, Lucas Dickson, Jaimee Ashe and Lisa Peterson. Welcome! And there were another 10 at their first Gloucester parkrun - the word is spreading about the scenic course and friendly locals.
Visitor Leon Richardson was the first male home in a time of 17.55 on his first visit to Gloucester parkrun, with the first female Rebecca Denniss completing her run in a personal best time of 22.42.
There were too many
personal best times to list them all - with 15 walkers and runners setting new goals for 2025.
Thanks as always to the volunteers - Chris and Trudie Murray teamed up as timekeeper and finish tokens, while Garry Lyford was the steady hand of the scanner.
John Rosenbaum volunteered as tailwalker to make sure everyone got around the course safely - while stopping a few times along the way to chat to others enjoying the Gloucester District Park on a Saturday morning.
Stableford success
By Peter WILDBLOOD
q Steve Kriss and Trevor Sharp.