NSW Waratahs squad coming to Gloucester
By Wendy BUSWELL
“The
“The
“We
RELENTLESS RAIN
2430.
q Waratahs lock Fergus Lee-Warner. Photo: supplied.
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By Thomas O’KEEFE
EMERGENCY services volunteers launched into action across the Hunter during volatile and ferocious January storms last week.
While many enjoyed a spectacular lighting show during the power blackouts on the night of Wednesday 16 January, trees fell to block the only road in and out of several towns, while floodwaters inundated many other roads, keeping State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS), Police and Ambulance workers very busy for several days.
In Stroud, farm owners were forced to leave their vehicles on the far side of creeks or rivers, and seek more sturdy assistance to make the crossing home, while the town itself suffered flooding from the Karuah River breaching its banks.
Along the Lower Myall,
particularly high tides coincided with the storm surge to flood the Tea Gardens riverfront.
Bulahdelah suffered water over roads in numerous spots, made more dangerous by fallen power lines, with further flooding around Stroud, Booral, Girvan, Washpool and virtually everywhere in between.
The Pacific Highway was host to several motor vehicle accidents in the pounding rain and flash flooding.
Pindimar, Bundabah and North Arm Cove residents were left in the dark for days, while their resident RFS brigades did their best to clear fallen trees all over the villages.
Karuah and Raymond Terrace were also left without power for extended periods, on top of failed telecommunications infrastructure.
“Many motorists were diverting off the highway before Bulahdelah,
following outdated information on otherwise trusted traffic apps, many ended up in trouble on a flooded Booral Rd, or Bucketts Way, and SES was caused to go up those roads, too,” Stroud SES Deputy Commander Greg Snape informed NOTA.
“The message is simple: drive for the
conditions, and think about what you have to do, and do you have to do it?
“Also, if you see debris in the water, don’t walk or drive through it.
“Over 10 days the [Stroud] SES received 36 calls for incidents, and two road crash rescue activations with one extrication performed.
“One medical evacuation of an injured camper from Coachwood Campground, which became a five-hour drive for two teams commencing at 8.30pm, saw multiple trees down blocking roads, roads cut by flooding, torrential rain and thick fog hampering access to the site.”
There was another recovery of a mother and son a week previously in the same area, with trees down blocking roads; their vehicle had become stuck in a dish drain, presenting a very challenging nighttime operation for the SES team.
“Thanks to the MidCoast Council crews for their help along Bucketts and Myall Ways, Booral Road, and with trees down and roof damage on properties in North Arm Cove, Hawks Nest and other areas,” Deputy Commander Snape said.
“During this event we delivered a two day training course to four of our members and their new skills were immediately used to assist in delivery of service to our community.”
and focus on
with premium rental returns for their holiday investment properties.
q One of many flooded roads blocking a medical evacuation, this one at Main Creek Road, Carowiry Creek, Monkerai. Photo: Stroud SES.
q SES Water Rescue Operators negotiate fallen limbs and sunken obstacles to save those in distress. Photo: Stroud SES.
RELENTLESS RAIN
FROM Page 1
The Bureau of Meteorology warned of potential six-hourly totals between 70 and 120 millimetres through Saturday evening, raising concerns for flash flooding.
The Gloucester River peaked at 4.74 metres around 5:00pm Saturday, with minor flooding.
The river level fell below the minor flood level (4.30m) by around 8:00pm Saturday.
Access to some rural roads was affected, with residents reporting being flooded in at Waukivory on Sunday.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) recorded 224.6mm of rain at Waukivory between 13-19 January.
Careys Peak at Barrington Tops recorded 525mm during that period.
Due to the widespread impacts, residents in stormaffected areas of the MidCoast can now dispose of damaged items and storm debris at the tip without paying the waste
levy.
The NSW Government has waived the waste levy fee for six weeks to support communities impacted by recent severe thunderstorms as they rebuild and recover.
This assistance aims to speed up recovery efforts and reduce financial pressures on households and businesses.
The exemption is backdated to 15 January 2025 and will remain in place until 28 February 2025.
Requests for extensions will be considered on a caseby-case basis.
The waiver covers stormrelated waste on public and private land, including damaged building materials, furniture, carpet, garden debris, food waste and other items.
Landfill operators may still charge their landfill operation charge also known as the gate fee or tip fee.
FROM Page 1
Waratahs to represent the whole state.
“We’re looking to bridge the gap between the city and the country.”
Fergus grew up in Davis Creek, a town not far from Gloucester, and followed the club rugby pathway.
He played rugby in school and after completing his HSC took a year off jackerooing.
He then played for Easts while earning his construction degree.
It wasn’t until he graduated that he accepted an offer to play professionally.
His first contract was with the Western Force.
“It is important for young boys and girls to understand that there are many different pathways to a professional rugby career,” Fergus told News Of The Area.
“When the squad is in Gloucester, we will be happy to answer any questions.
“I feel fortunate to be doing a job that I love, and I feel privileged to be part
Safety Net Program
of this 2025 Waratahs squad.”
The 2025 squad is a mix of experienced and less experienced players, with Dan McKellar the new coach.
The Waratahs will be involved in a training session at Oval Number One in Gloucester at 10:30am on Sunday, 2 February.
This visit is an opportunity for anyone interested in how a professional sports team trains to get involved or simply watch.
There will also be a chance to talk with the players, get autographs, and take photographs.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for the club and the town to host a professional rugby squad,” said Jamie Searle, President of the Gloucester Cockies.
“We are hoping for a big turnout and will have the BBQ fired up and the bar open.
“Come and give these players a warm Gloucester welcome!”
q Residents reported being flooded in at Waukivory. Photo: Sasha Fenton, FB.
q Bretti Rivers. Photo: Kerrie Gourley, FB.
q Billabong Park, Gloucester. Photo: Wendy Buswell.
q Gloucester District Park. Photo: Louise Duff.
q A flooded Avon River. Photo: John Watts.
q Mel Haddon captured both the beauty of the Gloucester region and the impact of recent rainfall. Photo: Mel Haddon, FB.
Gloucester’s hidden industries
By John WATTS
DURING the pandemic there was a necessary explosion in the number of people working from home (WFH) and that trend has continued.
According to ABS data from 2023, 37 percent of Australians were working from home, which was much higher than pre-pandemic levels.
And Gloucester is no different.
Technology has dramatically improved the ability of many in highlyskilled occupations to work remotely.
That means there has been no need for the Gloucester area’s “tree-changers” to abandon their chosen careers.
News Of The Area chatted to several of them.
Patricia Banyer is a radiation therapist working for a company engaged in cutting edge cancer research.
She helps to develop and manage the company’s radiation therapy quality assurance program for clinical trials.
Before moving to Gloucester six years ago, Patricia worked as a radiation therapist at the Canberra Hospital.
“My employer has a flexible working agreement, which is great for balancing work/life/family, especially with three young children,” she said.
Lauren McRae also hails from Canberra, but since
Celebrating Australia Day in Gloucester
OFFICIAL Australia Day activities kick off early at the Gloucester Showground on 26 January.
Organised by the Gloucester Australia Day Committee, a Welcome to Country and flag raising ceremony will open the event from 8am.
Breakfast will then be offered by a collaboration of local groups, before official proceedings which include the presentation of the Gloucester Australia Day awards.
Other agenda items of note include a high school captain's address, best dressed competition, colouring-in competition, ambassador’s address, best business displays, and a speech by State MP Dave Layzell.
Federal Member for
Lyne Dr David Gillespie said the day is a chance to “celebrate our great nation”.
“We are a country more blessed than most, a country that hasn’t just been lucky, but has made its own luck, through our collective spirit of freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity.
“Through our rich Indigenous heritage, coupled with successive waves of migrants that have come far and wide to build a better life, we have created a peaceful and prosperous nation.
“This is certainly something to be proud of and I therefore encourage everyone across our community to celebrate Australia Day this Sunday, 26 January.”
2013 has lived with her diary farmer husband James a few kilometres from Barrington.
Lauren runs her own business called Fuz Designs offering branding and graphic design services.
“The benefit of working from home is the flexibility to set my hours and days, and it also allows me to attend my kids’ school activities,” said
Lauren
“The disadvantage is the isolation that can come with working independently, but The Hub, as well as online mentor groups, help to minimise the isolation.”
Both Patricia and Lauren often take advantage of the office facilities provided by
the Business Chamber in The Hub in the Majestic Arcade.
Town Planner Christopher Ross and his family recently moved to Gloucester from the Central Coast after spending time in Indonesia.
“Having shifted back from overseas, we decided we would like to explore a more regional life,” said Christopher.
“We have visited Gloucester for years to see friends and always enjoyed our time here, so we moved up and we're spending some time getting to know the town before we look to settle on a small farm.”
Christopher specialises in development assessment,
advising Local Government across the state and working closely with a number of architects throughout the Newcastle/Central Coast/ Northern Beaches on planning matters.
“The main benefit of working from home is the flexibility to leave the home office and take our dog Frank for a walk whenever I need to clear my thoughts, as well as spending time with Carlie and the kids.”
Timothy Clark, who has lived in Gloucester for eight years, is employed as a social media marketer working from home, and sometimes from a local coffee shop.
According to Timothy,
more family time is the main benefit of working from home.
Louise Duff moved from Newcastle to Gloucester twelve months ago, kicking off her natural resource consultancy business.
“I wanted to simplify my life by leaving the city behind and moving to a country town and I chose Gloucester for its beautiful landscape and proximity to National Parks and Newcastle,” said Louise.
Louise communicates daily with clients and stakeholders via email, phone and Zoom and loves working from home.
“I used to commute an hour each way in my last job, so ten-hours a day were devoted to my work life, but now I can tailor my work days to fit my other priorities to achieve work-life balance.”
Permaculture at the pub
By John WATTS
WHEN the word “permaculture” is uttered, some readers might have a vision of someone clad in well-worn gardening gear, with an old tattered hat, clutching a freshly dug bunch of carrots or spuds.
Few would imagine a smartly dressed group, beers in hand, chatting animatedly at the local pub about gardening in general, and permaculture in particular.
The idea of Permaculture at the Pub began three years ago when Will from Maplewood Permaculture
at Paterson thought those interested in gardening and related issues might enjoy getting together in an informal situation for a friendly chat.
The idea quickly took root and now there are several towns hosting Permaculture at the Pub, including Gloucester.
“Held once a month in local pubs, it is a casual get together for anyone wanting to talk gardening, sustainability, self-sufficiency, compost, local community, and more,” said Will.
“There is no agenda, no tickets, no bookings - you
drop in and stay for as long or as little as you like.
“Since 2022, Permaculture at the Pub has been connecting beginners, experienced growers, industry professionals, homesteaders, and more.”
The Gloucester event is organised by local Lauren McRae and is held at the Roundabout Pub on the first Wednesday of each month from 5.30pm.
“Our usual turnout is anywhere between 12-16 people, half regulars and half newcomers, which is lovely,” said Lauren.
“At this stage it’s just a
casual catch up and chat with no guest speakers, as we want to keep it a social opportunity.
“We have discussed the idea of visiting each other’s gardens which might happen this year.
“Most people who attend are backyard gardeners, but we do have a few market gardeners attend, and a regular couple who drive up from Maitland, as well as other attendees from Paterson, Bulahdelah and Stroud.”
The next Gloucester Permaculture in the Pub will be on 5 February.
q Lauren McRae hard at work.
q Christoper Ross at his desk.
PM energised as Nats use nuclear to hunt coal-rich seat
By Dominic GIANNINI and Andrew BROWN, AAP
EARLY campaigning ahead of a federal election is giving insight into what voters will be pitched, with energy and leadership quality dominating the discussion.
The political tussle last week largely focused on respective energy policies with Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton each painting themselves as the best chance to take Australia forward and address the cost of living.
"The next election will be about Labor with costof-living relief and a plan to build Australia's future, Peter Dutton costing people more and taking Australia backwards," Mr Albanese said.
"I am not sure what he does about energy security in the 2030s because he has got no answer to it before some fantasy of a nuclear reactor comes on in the 2040s."
The coalition plans to
build seven nuclear reactors across the nation if elected, and increase reliance on coal and gas in the transition period.
One of the plants would be at the Liddell power station in the Hunter region of NSW, which Nationals leader David Littleproud called a "must-win seat" as he unveiled Sue Gilroy as the party's candidate.
The coal-rich seat is held by Labor's former miner and Olympic shooter Dan Repacholi on a four percent margin.
Ms Gilroy is using her background as a businesswoman to spruik the need for nuclear to bring down power prices.
But the coalition's $330 billion nuclear power plan has been questioned by energy experts who point to renewable energy being the cheapest form of power.
Mr Littleproud said Labor had demonised coal and gas as it transitions to renewable energy "despite these
crucial industries forming the backbone of the Hunter and employing thousands of locals".
Independent MP Zoe Daniel said nuclear energy was too expensive and too slow for Australia, which should take advantage of its wind and solar resources.
The coalition is trying to win back her seat of Goldstein.
"The biggest issue with the nuclear conversation is stalling investment in renewable energy, prolonging the future of fossil fuels," Ms Daniel, who ran on a climate action platform, told ABC Radio.
Mr Albanese visited Gilmore on the NSW South Coast last Tuesday to announce $5 million for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct. Held by Labor, it's one of two of Australia's most marginal seats at 0.2 percent.
He attempted to stir fear about a potential nuclear power site being moved to the area after pointing to the
Hunter being earthquakeprone and unsuitable for nuclear.
Mr Dutton hit back, arguing "the prime minister couldn't tell you what he has achieved in this term of parliament".
"If he had a good story to tell about what they've achieved as a government over the last three years, he'd be spruiking that but, of course, he has no story to tell," Mr Dutton told reporters in Ipswich.
Mr Dutton claimed the prime minister had forgotten
working-class Australians and had pandered to union bosses as he campaigned in Blair, a Queensland seat held by Labor on a five per cent margin.
He pledged to reunite Australians, vowing to force local councils to hold citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day after Labor granted more leeway on when they could be held.
"We owe it to people who have served in uniform to defend our values to celebrate Australia Day, make sure as Australians we are
proud of it," Mr Dutton said.
Asked whether he was comfortable with forcing councils to hold the ceremonies on a day painful to many Indigenous Australians, Mr Albanese said he'd be attending a national ceremony in Canberra and called for Mr Dutton to do the same.
"Every year it's inspirational and I look forward to celebrating Australia Day," he said.
The federal election must be held by late May.
q Campaigning by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is heating up. Photo: Diego Fedele, Dominic Giannini/AAP PHOTOS.
Farmers welcome plans to attract more vets to regional NSW
THE state’s peak farm body has welcomed a new government initiative to address acute shortages of vets across rural NSW.
Under the NSW Government’s Welcome Experience program, vets, vet nurses, vet technicians and their families are now eligible to receive assistance with sourcing housing, childcare and other services when moving to rural NSW.
NSW Farmers' Member Dr Robyn Alders AO said news of the initiative had been warmly welcomed by
farming communities across the state, as they continued to grapple with critical workforce shortages.
“Farmers know that healthy animals are productive animals and it’s in their best interests to care for their livestock – but the reality is they need to have access to vets if they are to successfully protect animal health on-farm,” Dr Alders said.
“Effective surveillance, detection and response to animal disease is also reliant on a strong veterinary sector,
and this has been proven time and time again during recent outbreaks of exotic animal disease in southern Australia, and detections of notifiable animal disease in NSW.
“We need our vets, and it’s great to see our government recognise this.”
However, Dr Alders warned further solutions to address the shortage of veterinary workers were still necessary, with mentoring, training and incentive programs just some of the solutions proposed by NSW Farmers in a recent inquiry
into vet shortages last year.
“If we want to build a sustainable veterinary workforce here in rural NSW, then we need a range of solutions that address the complex challenges that have caused this shortage in the first place,” Dr Alders said.
“Incentives such as waiving student debt for graduate vets who take up work in rural NSW would make a real difference in attracting vets to rural communities, as would more partnerships between the public and private vet sectors in support of rapid exotic animal disease detection and control in NSW.
“Around the world governments are supporting a range of initiatives to ensure the availability of appropriate, affordable veterinary services to livestock producers, and it’s critical our government does the same.”
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I’ve known Alison Penfold a long time and I’m supporting her because I know she will listen, care and deliver like I have.
Alison will stand up for you when others won’t. She will fight for policies to get Australia back on track and bring down the cost of living.
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THE NATIONALS for Lyne
THE 2025 Weed Control Calendar is now available from local offices of Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) or from your local council weeds officer.
Hunter-relevant weeds are the focus according to the month of their control or easy to identify stage as well as weeds that you may not recognise.
The Weeds Calendar has previously led to high priority weed infestations being reported from the community.
Hunter LLS also has Giant Parramatta Grass in its sights with a new video series on controls, management and issues.
Dungog’s Jim Tickle
provides a landholder perspective discussing his experience with Giant Parramatta Grass (GPG) and shares practical information he uses for control and management of this invasive species.
Hunter LLS is rolling out three new videos covering everything from how to identify GPG to effective control strategies and tips for working with neighbouring properties to manage GPG populations. Tune in for expert advice and valuable insights that could make all the difference for your land at: www.facebook. com/HunterLLS.
Authorised by David Gillespie, Cnr Cameron St and Oxley Hwy, Wauchope NSW 2446
q Giant Parramatta Grass.
q Under the program, vets are now eligible to receive assistance with sourcing housing, childcare and other services when moving to rural NSW. Photos: supplied.
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
SILENT WITNESS
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Debuting all the way back in 1996, this venerable British crime drama returns with its 27th edition tonight. Longtime star Emilia Fox (pictuted), who has now been with the show for 20 seasons, is back as forensic pathologist Dr Nikki Alexander. This week, Nikki and colleague Jack Hodgson (David Caves, pictured with Fox) are called in when a body is found with all the hallmarks of being an infamous serial killer’s latest victim. Along for the ride in this two-part episode is the superb John Hannah, who steals the show as a former coroner whose wife believed to be a victim of the same killer.
FRIDAY, January 24
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden: The 19th Century. (R)
8.30 Silent Witness. (Return, Mal) Nikki and Jack investigate a murder.
10.15 You Can’t Ask That: Short-Statured. (Mls, R) An insight into people’s lives.
10.35 Live At The Malthouse. (Mal, R)
11.40 ABC Late News.
11.55 Grand Designs: Wyre Forest. (R)
12.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R)
1.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
SATURDAY
GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE (NZ)
ABC ENTERTAINS, 8pm
Loosely based on a classic spelling bee format, and wholly an excuse for Kiwi stand-up Guy Montgomery (pictured) to rib, taunt and infuriate his comedian pals on television, the Australian edition of this comedy panel show created quite the buzz for the ABC when it premiered last year. However, what some might not know is that there’s plenty more where that came from. It’s a red-letter day for fans: Montgomery’s homegrown seasons of the Spelling Bee are here, where he’s assisted by the delightfully deadpan Sanjay Patel. Tonight’s premiere sees Hayley Sproull, Abby Howells, Matt Heath and Josh Thomson prove their spelling prowess (or lack thereof).
WEDNESDAY OPTICS
ABC TV, 8.30pm
It’s a match made in Australian satire heaven: this biting new sitcom combines the talents of ’s Jenna Owen (pictured) and Vic Zerbst minds behind Stan Christmas Nugget is Dead) with the brilliance of The ’s Charles Firth. It’s set in the offices of public relations firm Fritz & Randell, where colleagues Greta (Zerbst) and Nicole (Owen) are trying spin a disgraced AFL player’s antics while their heir-apparent colleague Ian (Firth) sits in an all-male corporate strategy meeting. When the CEO suddenly passes away, the company’s billionaire owner (Claude Jabbour, Last King of the Cross) suggests two surprising successors.
7.30 MOVIE: The Goldfinch. (2019, Madlv, R) 10.10 The Day The Rock Star Died: Michael Hutchence. (Ma)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 De Gaulle. (PG)
12.10 Kin. (MA15+l, R)
2.55 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R)
3.45 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (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. The Challenger. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of The Challenger. 11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) Johanna Griggs learns pickling. 12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 4. Highlights. 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13. 11.00 MOVIE: Those Who Wish Me Dead. (2021, MA15+lv, R) A survival expert tries to save a teenage boy. Angelina Jolie. 1.00 Customs. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Mark rides in a horse race.
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Drive TV. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of
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: Catch Me If You Can. (2002, Mls, R) An FBI agent chases a young con man. Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks. 10.20 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.45 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00
SATURDAY, January 25
6.30 Back Roads: Theodore, Queensland. (PG, R) Guest presented by Anna Daniels.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Australian Of The Year 2025. (PG) Hosted by Leigh Sales.
8.45 Beyond Paradise. (PG) Humphrey investigates the death of an unidentified man found in the centre of a crop circle.
9.45 Vera. (Mv, R) Vera investigates a daring robbery, but uncovers a web of intrigue when it turns out to be an inside job.
11.15 Miniseries: Until I Kill You. (Malv, R)
12.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
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 Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 MOVIE: Gangsta Granny. (2013) 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.45 Speechless. 10.05 Officially Amazing. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland.
8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres. (PGa, R)
9.20 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PGa, R)
10.15 Ruby Wax: Castaway. (Mal, R)
11.10 Ralph And Katie. (PGal, R)
2.30 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R)
3.25 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
4.20 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31)
6am I Capture The Castle. (2003, PG) 7.05 All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 8.45 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 10.25 Haywire. (2011, M) 12.05pm Infinite Storm. (2022, M) 1.55 The Man Who Knew Infinity.
SUNDAY, January 26
6.55 Governor-General’s Australia Day Message. An address to the nation.
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Australia Day Live. A celebration of music, lights and fireworks.
9.30 MOVIE: Shine. (1996, PGav, R) An eccentric pianist suffers a nervous breakdown as he pursues a career in music. Geoffrey Rush, Sonia Todd. 11.15 To Be Advised.
12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.10 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.05 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.05 The Great Acceleration. (PG, R)
(22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.00 Tiddler. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 The Secret Life Of Our Pets. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: Bran Nue
Dae. (2009, PGlsv, R)
9.05 The Lost City Of Melbourne. (Md, R)
10.40 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Jordan. (PGa, R)
11.35 Splice Here: A Projected Odyssey.
2.00 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R)
2.55 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
3.50 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Twenty20 International Series. Australia v England. Game 3.
10.30 MOVIE: Dracula Untold. (2014, Mh, R) After his kingdom is threatened by invaders, a young prince becomes a monster to protect his people. Luke Evans, Dominic Cooper.
12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 5. Highlights. 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
That Built The World. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 Deadly Funny 2024. 11.40 WWE Legends. 1.15am The X-Files. 3.05 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.30 Better
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)
7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R)
9.30 An Audience With Kylie Minogue. (PG, R)
10.45 The British Airways Killer. (Mav, R)
12.50 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 6. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. 7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. 12.00 MOVIE: Red Dog. (2011, PGals, R) A dog unites a remote outback community. Josh Lucas.
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) Religious program.
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
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) A spaniel may have founds its soul sister. An excitable lurcher puppy meets a husky. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving, as they deal with a diabetic coma, a rescue from a burning car, a child in anaphylaxis and an explosion in Chinatown. 10.30 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) Ambulance crews attend a number of emotionally charged category one emergencies. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am Children’s Programs. 1pm
Weapon 3. (1992, M) Midnight Gotham. 1.00 Arrow. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Bakugan: Legends. 4.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 America’s Game. 10.00
MOVIE: The Red Shoes: Next Step. (2023, PG) 3.20
6.00 NBN News. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 12.00 The First 48: Inside The Tape Special #9. (MA15+a) A body is discovered in a bridge.
1.00 Customs. (PG, R) Follows customs officers at work.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
The Road To The Open:
New Chapter. (R)
Today Early News.
MOVIE: The Choice. (2016, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: 17 Again. (2009, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore. (2022, M) 10.35 MOVIE: The Mechanic. (2011, MA15+) 12.30am The Originals. 2.30 Surfing Aust. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Pokémon: XYZ. 4.50 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm MOVIE: Nanny McPhee. (2005, PG) 3.30
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 I’m
MONDAY, January 27
6.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Hunt For Truth: Tasmanian Tiger. (Final, Ml, R)
8.35 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (M)
9.30 Inside Sydney Airport. (PGal, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Clean Sweep. (MA15+s)
11.55 Wisting. (Madlv, R)
12.50 You Shall Not Lie. (MA15+als, R)
2.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.35 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.25 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 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 Quiz Kids. 9.05 The Wonderful World Of Puppies. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 7.40 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 9.30 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 11.35 Zama. (2017, M, Spanish) 1.50pm The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 4.25 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 6.35 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 8.30 Drunken Tai Chi. (1984, M, Cantonese) 10.10 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 12.30am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, January 28
Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)
8.35 Stock Aitken Waterman: Legends Of Pop. (Final, Ml, R)
9.50 Video Killed The Radio Star. (Mlns, R)
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a)
11.50 Christian. (Malv, R)
2.50 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R)
3.40 21 Kids And Counting. (PGal, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Farewell. (2019, PG) 7.55 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 10.05 Sweet As. (2022) 11.45 The Emigrants. (2021, M, Swedish) 2.25pm Wide Open Sky. (2015) 4.00 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 6.10 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 8.30 Hero. (2002, M, Mandarin) 10.25 Wet Season. (2019, MA15+) 12.20am Hunt. (2022, MA15+, Korean) 2.40 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 5.00 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG)
IN 20 KIDS NEED YOUR
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Final. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the Big Bash League Final. 11.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ma) A good samaritan helps out at a crash.
11.30 Highway Cops. (PGa)
A truckie’s seatbelt saves his neck.
12.00 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
A gridiron team strives for victory.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls) The social experiment begins. 9.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 9News Late.
11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv)
11.50 Casualty 24/7. (Mm, R) 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
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6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club. (PGls) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.
8.35 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+v, R) A retired CIA black ops operative is forced back into action when his friend is murdered. Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal. 11.05 MOVIE: Skyscraper. (2018, lv, R) Dwayne Johnson.
1.00 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight.
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9GEM
WEDNESDAY, January 29
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 The Way We Wore. (Final, PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.50 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.00 Forever Summer With Nigella. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Stage. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 2.10 Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGav, R) 3.00 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 6.30 News. 7.35 The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor. (PG, R)
8.30 Wonders Of The Moon With Dara Ó Briain. (PGa)
9.25 Miniseries: Playing Nice. (Premiere, M)
10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Pagan Peak. (Mav) 11.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R) 12.50 Agent Hamilton. (Mav, R) 2.30 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.20 22 Kids And Counting. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 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. 10.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.55 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
THURSDAY, January 30
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Australian Of The Year 2025. (PG, R) 2.15 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15
6am Morning
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Murder, She Baked: Just Desserts. (2017, PGav) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Kirby holds a strategy meeting.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (Return, PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 Ludwig. (Premiere, Ma) A man investigates his twin’s disappearance.
9.45 Breathtaking. (Premiere, Ma)
10.45 The Suspects: True Australian Thrillers. (M, R)
11.45 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.45 Black-ish. (PGa)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Uptown Girls.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
9.00 MOVIE: Unbreakable: Jelena Dokic Story. (2024, Mal) The story of Jelena Dokic. Jelena Dokic, Pam Shriver.
11.15 9News Late.
11.45 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)
12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 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
On Stage. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Hold Up. (Mv, R) 2.10 Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGa, R) 3.00 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (Return)
8.30 Silk Road From Above. (PG, R) The aerial journey concludes. 9.30 The Darkness. (MA15+a) 10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Divided We Stand. (Mal)
12.50 Blanca. (Malv, R)
2.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R)
3.35 22 Kids And Counting. (PGl, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. 12.55am Criminal Planet. 2.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am TBA. 6.30 Escape
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Programs. 9.15 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 11.10 Drunken Tai Chi. (1984, M, Cantonese) 12.50pm The Way Way Back. (2013, M) 2.45 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 4.55 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 6.55 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 8.30 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 10.30 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 12.30am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 8.35 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 10.55 Hero. (2002, M, Mandarin) 12.50pm Stage Mother. (2020, M) 2.30 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.25 Much Ado About Nothing. (1993, PG) 6.30 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 8.30 Ip Man: Kung Fu Master. (2019, MA15+, Mandarin) 10.05 Noryang: Deadly Sea. (2023, MA15+, Korean) 12.50am Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PGa, R) 2.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 2.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 1. Afternoon session. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Eden wants answers from Cash.
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.
10.35 Pam & Tommy. (Final, MA15+alns)
11.35 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.30 Black-ish. (PGa, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.00 Becoming Madonna. (MA15+als) A retelling of Madonna’s journey. 11.00
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.
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
There has been a lot of angst about people setting up their cabanas on beaches lately. A good friend of mine thinks they ruin the beach, but we got one for Christmas which makes going to the beach with her a bit uncomfortable.
How do I handle this?
Karen Q.
Dear Karen,
Ah, summer on the beach. The deafening trill of cicadas, sand in every orifice of the car, (and body) children screaming
out from beyond the flags on flimsy inflatable rings, the marcasite glint coming off the ocean. It is such an evocative time, and one that can make us nostalgic for the good old days when there was an unencumbered view of the ocean and we cooked ourselves like well-done steaks, encouraging the baking process by smearing baby oil over every body part not covered by an itsybitsy teeny-weeny yellow polka dot bikini (and that was just the men).
Thankfully we have evolved in many ways and people are now far more sun safe than they were. Unfortunately, those of us who were sun worshippers in the 80s and 90s, are now getting basal cell carcinomas chopped out of our bodies and there is nothing sexy about that.
Cabanas and umbrellas are one way to mitigate the impact of the sun and some families don't
have the luxury of living a short drive from the beach, so they have to come prepared for the day.
After being told my my dermatologist to only sunbake at night, I avoid the heat of the day and usually only go to the beach when most of the crowds have left, but if I was there at midday with delicate-skinned children in tow, I'd be putting up everything I could to offer a bit more protection from the sun (of course a cabana isn't enough - hats, rashies and SPF50+ sunscreen are mandatory too in our harsh climate). If the view upsets your friend, get her to move down to the shoreline where she will have a clear view of the ocean, or suggest to her that she swim first thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon.
Then all she will have to worry about is an unpatrolled beach, rips and sharks.
3 = Antarctica, 4 = Australia, 5 = Europe, 6 = North America and 7 = South America. Iran is in Asia.
Kids Boot Camp 029
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Improvements needed at Waukivory Hall
THE Waukivory Hall Committee are seeking support for improvements to the historic community space halfway between Gloucester and Bulahdelah.
“Acknowledging the uniqueness of the hall and the opportunity of uniting the community makes this a special venue worthy of the time and dedication required to maintain its dignity, [and] to meet the needs of present and future community members,” said committee member Meg Tulk.
“Let’s get involved.”
According to the committee, the building requires its interior walls painted, repairs to the roof, a revamped ceiling (currently hessian), and a hanging system installed.
Committee members Meg, John Andrews and
Kathy Baxter will lead the improvement project, organising an upcoming working bee at the hall.
The hall remains in community use, with functions such as Paint’n’Sip, weddings, luncheons, musical entertainment, quiz
and bingo nights, Tai Chi and art/craft workshops managed by the committee on a regular basis.
John Andrews ran two workshops in May 2023 and May 2024, where locals and Gloucester residents learned to paint or hone their paintings.
He and wife Anne donate proceeds from these workshops to the Hall Committee.
More recently, artist and committee member Meg Tulk donated one of her landscape paintings to the fundraising effort, which was raffled specifically for hall maintenance.
The prize was drawn at the hall’s 2024 Christmas party and won by Ranger Coralie de Angelis, team leader at NPWS Barrington
Tops, Gloucester. A delighted Coralie was presented with the beautiful bush portrait by Kathy Baxter, secretary of the Hall Committee.
Meg has since donated a second painting to raise funds.
Kathy and her partner Gerry also took delivery of an antique piano and a pianola for the hall, donated by enthusiastic ex-residents.
Volunteers willing to assist at working bees are invited to contact Kathy Baxter on 0409 767 722 or Anne Andrews on 0408 952 429.
Donations are also welcome.
The Hall Committee’s next meeting is on Thursday 20 February at 6.30pm.
Ways for consumers to put the 'sun tax' in the shade
By Marion RAE, AAP
FOR those who can afford it, adding a battery could beat the "sun tax" that will further deplete the once-generous rate of return for rooftop solar pioneers.
A third of Australia's households have rooftop solar and almost three quarters of the output has historically been exported into the electricity grid.
But a new tax, or so-called two-way pricing, is already being trialled in NSW as the network attempts to throttle output during hours of too much supply to keep the system stable.
"When we got our first solar we had 60 cents (per kilowatt hour) from the NSW government and an extra six cents from whoever was our energy provider at the time, and now we get seven cents," economist Nicki Hutley told AAP.
"There will be - during the middle of the day - a sun tax but that's why we need to invest more in household batteries and things like vehicle-to-grid charging," she said.
But getting smarter about charging and using appliances in the middle of the day requires smart meters, which measure energy use in five to 30 minute blocks.
Victoria and Tasmania have accelerated the rollout of smart meters, and the Australian Energy Market Commission in November mandated smart meter deployment across the national electricity market by 2030.
"It's all about setting your
dishwasher or whatever to go on at midday so you're maximising your energy use during the day and not exporting back to the grid" at that time,” Ms Hutley said.
"If you've got a sufficiently sized battery in your home, or your car, you can store the energy and then you don't have to pay," she said.
Under the access and pricing rule change, existing solar customers cannot be put on export pricing arrangements until July 1, 2025, unless they elect to do so.
These network tariffs, which providers charge to retailers, are being introduced across NSW, and are proposed for South Australia in 2025 and under development in Victoria for 2026.
Retailers will choose how to package these up into retail offers for customers, along with their other costs to supply electricity.
Leading charities lobbied for the reform because they thought it was unfair that everyone in a network should pay to support those who could afford solar panels.
Meanwhile a federal Community Batteries for Household Solar program is building shared storage for up to 100,000 households.
This is designed to allow more renters who cannot install solar panels to access cheap renewable energy and to absorb excess energy that might cause voltage spikes in the electricity grid.
Ausgrid, which supplies power to more than two million customers in Sydney, the Central Coast and the
Hunter confirmed its twoway pricing was opt-ininitially.
"Yes, there is a 1.2 c/ kWh export charge but only for excess exports above the free threshold (and between 10am and 3pm)", an Ausgrid spokesman said.
"What this means is customers are being paid a tiny fraction less for their electricity exports. They are still being rewarded," he said.
"But key to understanding this, is that there is a 2.4 c/ kWh reward for exports between 4pm and 9pm," he added.
NSW's Endeavour Energy also levies solar exports during the middle of the day and provides a reward for exports during late afternoons and evenings.
For regulators, export reward tariffs - when passed through to customers by retailers - are intended to build a more stable energy supply for the benefit of all electricity users.
The electricity network was not designed for large amounts of energy flowing back in.
This two-way flow of energy, with peaks in supply during the sunny middle of the day, has been overloading the network in many areas.
This is preventing some home-owners from exporting any solar at all, and also leads to additional network costs to accommodate the increased load.
These costs are currently borne by electricity users unable to access the benefits of solar, such as renters and apartment dwellers, as well as solar households.
"We're encouraging people to start changing their solar habits now," Compare the Market head of energy Meredith O'Brien said.
"Run power-guzzling appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers during the day or charge laptops, mobile phones, tablets and other devices," Ms O'Brien said.
Consider adding a battery to store solar electricity to either use in the evening or export it overnight or in peak demand periods in the late afternoon and early evening when the credit will be larger, she said.
It also pays to read the fine print on retail offers, as what looks like a great rate of return may be wiped out by higher electricity
consumption charges.
The days of earning more per kilowatt hour for solar exports than what a household was buying for its own consumption are long gone.
A feed-in tariff, also known as a buyback rate, is a credit received by homes and businesses for electricity sent back to the grid.
For many households, credits build up over summer and can be offset against otherwise unaffordable winter power bills.
Most homes are on a plan with a flat rate, while others have a time-of-use rate with the middle of the day earning very little and a higher payoff in the evening.
There are also so-called block feed-in tariffs, where rooftop solar may attract a certain rate for the first five
kWh sent to the grid each day, but half that for the next five.
Early adopters like Ms Hutley were on premium rates that state governments put in place in 2008 to encourage uptake.
NSW slashed the rate in 2010, Victoria's 66c premium feed-in tariff ended in November 2024 and South Australia's 20-year scheme will expire in 2028.
Victoria in January proposed what is effectively a zero-cent minimum rate, which means the state's almost 800,000 solar households must change their behaviour to get more bang for their solar buck.
The minimum flat feedin tariff will drop from 3.3 cents from July 1 under the draft proposal, with a final decision due by February 28.
Bumper holiday season
WHILE official figures are still rolling in, the latest holiday season has brought large numbers of visitors to the Barrington Coast.
Illegal camping and parking were hot topics leading into the holiday period, however MidCoast Council has praised the behaviour of the vast majority of visitors to the region.
Rangers have been making themselves visible at many of the usual hotspots including Seal Rocks, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, Pacific Palms, Crowdy Head and Harrington.
MidCoast Council’s Director of Liveable Communities, Paul De Szell said although rangers were
out in force, their presence was primarily about education.
“The last thing we want to do is ruin someone’s holiday here and their experience,” he explained.
“Our rangers are primarily out there to educate.
“If, after the initial conversation, there is still an issue, that is when a fine will be handed out as a last resort.”
With the holiday season past its peak, only 150 to 200 fines have been issued so far for parking and illegal camping offences.
Mr De Szell was also excited about what the bumper holiday season means for businesses and the local economy.
“When you consider that this has been one of the busiest holiday periods for the Barrington Coast with tens of thousands of visitors over the past few weeks, we are pleased that the message about visitor behaviour is being heard and that so many people have been able to enjoy their holidays here,” he said.
“I look forward to sharing the official figures of visitors and the economic benefit in the coming weeks."
It’s too early to say at the moment, but anecdotally it has been one of the best years for visitation, which is great news for our local businesses.”
q Raffle winner Coralie de Angelis receives Meg Tulk’s donated painting from Kathy Baxter, the Secretary of the Waukivory Hall. Photo: supplied. q The Waukivory Hall. Photo: Gloucester Tourism.
Australia Day award nominees
MEET the nominees for the 2025 Gloucester Australia Day awards.
Winners will be announced across four categories: Local Young Citizen of the Year; Local Citizen of the Year; Local Project of the Year; and Local Community Business of the Year.
Local Young Citizen of the Year Nominee
Findlay McIntosh
Findlay is the youngest Gloucester Shire SES unit member, actively contributing to local emergency preparedness and response efforts.
Following his grandmother's sudden incapacity, Findlay has stepped into the role of primary carer for his grandfather including personal care, driving tasks, shopping, household chores, and gardening.
He has demonstrated maturity and selflessness far beyond his years, especially as much of it has been on top of his normal duties and his Year 11 school studies.
He will continue in the carer role during his HSC year.
Findlay raised $1,002 for the World’s Greatest Shave, supporting those impacted by blood cancer.
He has also contributed to local events, including the Colour Run, Australia Day, and Carols by Candlelight.
Findlay is a youth leader at his local church, offering guidance and support to younger members of the congregation.
He is a talented musician who performs at community events such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day and contributes to school productions as part of the band.
Findlay is a member of the Student Representative Council (SRC), and has led numerous projects and fundraising events.
He has also assisted his father with veteran health presentations in Townsville and Mackay.
Findlay has represented Gloucester High School in the Opens Rugby League team, competed in the Dungog Trail Run, 2023 run leg of the Mountain Man Tri Challenge, placing first in his age category, and completed the 25km ‘Lakes100’ leg.
He was voted “Most
Improved” in Gloucester Netball's Open Mixed Netball competition and 2023 Age Champion for the Gloucester Thunderbolts Swimming Club.
He completed the City2Surf as part of the RSL teams supporting veterans in both 2023 and 2024.
He was the recipient of the David Gillespie School Community Service Award for outstanding service to his school and community and was elected as House Sports Captain at Gloucester High School, where he inspires his peers through his leadership and enthusiasm.
Findlay is a proud young Indigenous man, and is pursuing a career in the Australian Defence Force.
He has been accepted in the Indigenous Defence Experience Program at RMC Duntroon.
His aim is to join the Army in 2026, embodying his dedication to serving his country and representing his culture.
Findlay’s unwavering dedication to his community, impressive personal achievements, and vision for the future make him a truly deserving candidate for
Gloucester’s Young Citizen of the Year.
Local Citizen of the Year Nominees
Chris Parker
Chris has been volunteering for the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Centre and Bucketts Way Carers as a Community Transport driver for over 30 years.
She goes above and beyond and will drive residents day or night, travelling to Taree, Forster and Newcastle.
Her volunteer role includes taking residents shopping, picking up scripts from the chemist, going to doctors appointments, paying bills and more.
Chris is dedicated, kind, caring and loves her job.
She provides support to residents who have lost loved ones, gives the elderly a sense of self-worth, and allows them independence and freedom.
Chris, who has also cared for her husband who was badly injured when hit by a car, always puts the needs of others before her own.
She shows people how to achieve their goals and encourages others to help in
the community.
Highly respected and appreciated by many residents of Gloucester, Chris is a very worthy recipient of recognition for her service to the community.
Doug Clarke
Doug has been a member of the Lions for more than 30 years.
He is a life member of the Springwood Lions Club and joined the Gloucester Lions Club in 2019.
Upon his arrival in Gloucester, Doug immediately began making a positive impact on the community, and has been volunteering and giving his time to assist with any event that involves a BBQ.
Doug is best known for his handmade shoehorns crafted from materials such as aluminium, steel or PVC pipe.
He tailors them to suit the needs of the recipient, making extra long versions for the elderly and less mobile individuals.
He has distributed these to numerous community groups and organisations, including the police station, fire station, medical
centre, nursing home and the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group.
He doesn’t ask for any payment for the shoehorns but is very grateful for any donations which he then donates to the Gloucester Lions Club for their fundraising efforts.
Doug also supports the community in many other ways including sharpening and repairing tools for residents, and he is a keen gardener at Mirrabooka and regularly maintains their tools.
Doug also mows and maintains overgrown grass and vegetation on unmaintained Council land and around residential properties.
He is often spotted driving his green jeep with a whipper snipper in the boot and quietly steps in where it’s needed without seeking recognition.
At 83 years old Doug is an inspiration and embodies the spirit of community service, going above and beyond to meet the needs of others.
CONTINUED Page 15
Weather extremes raise new climate alarms
By Andrew VIVIAN
WILDFIRES in Los Angeles, heavy snow in other parts of the US, floods in Saudi Arabia and heatwaves across Australia have all confirmed the fears of climate scientists.
The Climate Council, an independent organisation formed after the Abbott Government abolished the Climate Commission in 2013, says scientists have confirmed 2024 was the world’s hottest since records began.
It eclipsed the record set in 2023 and raises alarms that burning fossil fuels is leaving the planet “teetering on the brink” of breaking the 1.5°C barrier set by the Paris Agreement.
The Council says
coordinated modelling and analysis produced by experts at NASA, the European climate service Copernicus, the US weather service NOAA, the UK Met Office, Berkeley Earth and the World Meteorological Organisation has found that every year of the past decade is one of the top ten on record.
“These are not the records any climate scientist wants to see broken,” said Climate Councillor Professor David Karoly.
“When it comes to rising temperatures, rising sea levels and rising damage bills from ‘unnatural’ disasters, every fraction of a degree matters.”
A warmer atmosphere also supercharges rain events, like the flooding in Spain that
saw cars swept through the streets and, closer to home, the flooding from ex-tropical cyclone Kirrily that became a disaster event in Queensland last January.
Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and damaging and it’s not just climate scientists who are alarmed.
The mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, said a dangerous combination of “historic” winds and extensive drought created the “perfect storm” for her city’s raging wildfires.
Early this week, an open letter written by Anjali Sharma, Jess Travers-Wolf, Hannah Vardy and Daisy Jeffrey, urged the Federal Government to legislate a “Duty of Care” to young people and future generations.
More than 50 individuals and organisations signed the letter, including Lucy Turnbull AO, John Hewson, Craig Foster, Peter Doherty, Emma McKeon and Grace Tame.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said, “People worldwide have suffered through ten years of record-breaking temperatures, driving deadly heatwaves, ferocious fires and record breaking flooding.”
"We have started to make real progress. Our grid is more renewable than ever, new EVs have hit the market at record rates, and we’ve just had a bumper year for big clean energy and storage projects.
“It’s time to draw a line
in the sand and say ‘no more fossil-fuelled temperature records’.
“Australia has everything we need for this to be the year we set records for all the
right reasons, from climate ambition to renewable power [and] nature restoration to clean transport.
“We can clean up our energy system by the 2030s.”
q Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and damaging.
q Belle Mulder. q Doug Clarke.
q Sandy Tebbet. q Findlay McIntosh.
Sandy Tebbet
Sandy moved to Gloucester from Sydney in 2010 and has been deeply involved in many different community activities.
Joining the CWA in 2011, she has participated in all aspects of this organisation, serving two terms as Branch Secretary, and taking on Agriculture and Environment, Cultural, International and Group Councillor roles.
Being part of the CWA was an outlet for her prodigious needlework skills.
Sandy is sought after as a tutor and judge in CWA branches all over NSW, but also at country shows far and wide.
She is a great ambassador for Gloucester and the district.
The “Santa’s Cave” was an initiative of Sandy’s which she adapted from an idea she had seen in the USA.
Sandy also runs Kids Krazy Craft days at the CWA rooms in the school holidays to teach children a variety of crafts.
Sandy has supported the Gloucester NAIDOC
Week celebrations held at the Recreation Centre, and served lunch at the UC Café on Cowper Street for people seeking company.
She is actively involved in the Uniting Church, having served as an officer of the Ladies Fellowship Group.
Sandy and her husband Bob have held a Melbourne Cup Day luncheon for the past 10 years, which is a fun-filled function including, lunch, sweeps and fashions on the field.
Proceeds from the day are donated to Gloucester’s Cancer Support Groups.
They have raised thousands of dollars from this function.
Sandy is a very generous person and a quiet achiever who does not expect any recognition for her service to the community.
Belle Mulder
Belle has been involved in many community fundraising events over several years, including the Gloucester Pink Day and 2014 Pink Day Relay in Gloucester District Park.
She has been involved in the Gloucester Australia Day event for the last four years with the donation of
groceries, assistance with parking, set up and pack up.
Belle also contributes a huge portion of her time to managing and maintaining eight social media platforms for the Gloucester community and surrounding districts.
She uses these platforms effectively to help those in need access clothing/ furniture and food.
Belle assisted in the canteen at the Barrington Public School between 2015 and 2017 and transported students to events and sporting activities.
Belle is involved with the Friends of Bakers Creek and provides assistance when required for their charity days.
She also assists Vicki Harris provide Christmas Day lunches for local residents that are lonely or unable to afford it.
In 2021 and 2024 Belle sponsored and helped run the Colour Beyond Blue Gloucester event to raise funds for mental health awareness.
Belle has been a volunteer for the Gloucester Mountain Man Tri Challenge, and has volunteered her time with Gloucester Soccer
Club to assist with ground maintenance, line marking of fields and provides sponsorship and assistance with registration and presentation days.
Belle’s kindness is evidenced by her anonymously filling a community freezer and pantry with meat and groceries for families in strife.
On another occasion she paid the vet bills for an elderly person who was struggling.
During the 2020 flood crisis, through social media, Belle assisted an anxious local person to get home to his property – organising help at river crossings and across country.
She coordinated contacts along the way, ensuring his safety at all times.
Where she sees the need her response is always genuine and generous.
Gloucester Local Project of the Year Nominee
Gloucester Rotary - Bush Poetry in the Saleyards
For over 20 years Gloucester Rotary has been holding its annual "Bush Poetry in the Saleyards"
where recognised bush poets from around Australia perform in the unique atmosphere of the Gloucester Saleyards.
The revenue raised has now exceeded $160,000 which has been used to support inbound and outbound Rotary Exchange students, myriads of donations to local community groups, the provision of the caravan dumpsite in Gloucester Park, and the 10 exercise stations in the park.
Each year Gloucester Rotary supports the Prostate and Breast Cancer Support Groups, but the emphasis has always been on supporting people where possible.
Local musical family the Bowdens have been an integral part of the event since its inception.
The initial concept was dreamt by Rotary member Grahame Stelzer and through continued succession planning continues today.
This year it forms the basis of the "Verse in the Valley", which is an early establishment for a full blown festival in future years.
Each year the project is a "sell-out" with the maximum 280 visitors seated to listen to the poets.
Visitors increasingly travel from Sydney to attend, alongside guests from the Upper Hunter.
Gloucester Local Community Business of the Year Nominee
J.A.S Plumbing and Gasfitting
With other 20 years of expertise, J.A.S Plumbing & Gasfitting have developed a reputation for punctuality, reliability and attention to detail.
“Jay is polite, professional and honest,” the award nominator stated.
“Before we started using Jay Sweeney we had to wait many weeks, sometimes months for a local plumber.
“J.A.S Plumbing and Gasfitting now employs two local lads as apprentices.
“They are professional and organised which means a lot to the community.
“Being reliable and knowing the best cost effective way of repairs before they begin is a big plus.
“So happy to have Jay and his team working with the Gloucester community.”
Gloucester Lady Bowlers Report Peters Wins Veterans Golf
By Jennifer BURLEY
WE CERTAINTLY got a warm welcome back for 2025 for our first Point Score competition and it was good to have 18 ladies venture out with a welcome to Catherine Chen whom we welcome from Scone.
We managed to have 10 ends of Triples before the heat chased us indoors.
Suzanne Cross,Joan Ridgeway and Di Pritchard 14/13 beat Gina Dalmulder, Jill Everett and Paula Standen
5/4.
Jeannette Mumford,Joy Hurworth and Judy Sheely 22/15 cruised to a easy win over Jill Carson, Lorraine Ratcliffe and Jenny Burley 4/3 and.
Catherine Chen, Jenny Stevens and Kerrie Green 13/10 won over Julie Kriss,Karen Heiningher and Del Buckton 4/3.Thus the winners of the Point Score were Judy Sheely's team Congratulations girls, great teamwork.
As several ladies indicated their intentions to go holidaying etc during the
next couple of months and the program has been done for several Championships and Competitions in that time frame, it is suggested that they indicate to Match Committee if they are available for play so they won't miss out.
Birthday wishes to Jeannette and Karen this week and all the best to those playing in the Mixed 4s Championship on Sunday the 19th January and a reminder the draw will be done for the Mixed Triples next Wednesday 22nd, more teams welcome.
By Peter WILDBLOOD
WHEN the Gloucester Veteran Golfers played their fifth round of their Summer Cup on Tuesday 14 January
Gary Peters turned in a score showing a handy twopoint lead over the field.
The day was warm and fine which was a nice change over the damp Tuesday of the previous week although the course was still playing a little on
the slow side.
The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Dale Rabbett and attracted a good field.
The winner was Gary Peters with 39 Stableford points; next was sponsor Dale Rabbett, 37, who took a pace back from her own trophy to allow Arthur Poynting 36, the runner’s up guernsey. Balls were won by Jim Spencer 35, Derek Wand, Chris Steele
and Bill Murray 34, with the final ball won by Steve Hurworth, 33, on a count back.
The Nearest-to-thePin at the 4th and 13th holes was won by Arthur Poynting finishing 259 cm from the flagstick. At the 6th and 15th holes the NTPs were won by Dale Rabbett, 974 cm, and Ken Kelly, 397 cm.
On Tuesday 21 January
Carolyn Davies sponsors an Individual Stroke event while the following Tuesday the Gloucester veterans will be playing a Four Ball Better Ball Stableford sponsored by Di and Derek Bardwell.
FROM Page 14
SPORTS
q Bush Poetry in the Saleyards.
q J.A.S Plumbing and Gasfitting
Dominant Dale
By Carolyn DAVIES
DALE Rabbett has started 2025 in fine form after missing last Wednesday’s outing because of rain.
On a fine Wednesday 15 January, players were keen to get out for their first competition game at the Gloucester Golf Ladies' Summer Competition.
The course looked very lush after the recent rain and great care by the greenkeeper Rossi and his volunteer helpers.
The event was an Individual Stableford over 12 holes.
Dale Rabbett had started her 2025 with a good score in the Veterans competition the previous day.
She followed up with another good round on Wednesday, taking out the winner's prize with her 25 points.
Karen Howarth, 23, and Julie Paterson, 21, won a golf ball each to start their 2025 accounts.
Evelyn Blanch won the Nearestto-the-Pin at the 4th and 13th holes; no-one managed to land on the green on the 15th hole.
The women golfers Summer Competition of 12-hole Individual Stableford continues into February.
q Julie Paterson, Dale Rabbett and Karen Howarth.