Myall Coast News Of The Area 23 February 2023

By John SAHYOUN

THE Bulahdelah Chamber of Commerce and Tourism has received funding through the Community Building Partnership (CBP) to improve the driveway at the Bulahdelah Rural Transaction Centre (RTC). The RTC provides many services that are absent from many rural areas and the Chamber aims to have their facilities the best possible.

“Over the particularly wet seasons we had, the driveway had fallen into such a state of disrepair

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q Chamber members Catherine Mann and Dale Bradshaw standing on the site of the new driveway and displaying their grant.

Thomas

Rural Transaction Centre grant a driveway to success

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Partnership program has awarded more than $399 million to over 18,000 projects.

Inc have also received funding for many worthwhile infrastructure projects.

John

that it was impossible for us to provide safe access for our customers and clients,” Bulahdelah Chamber Vice President Kevin Carter told Myall Coast NOTA.

“This funding will help to make this project of a new concrete driveway possible,” said Mr Carter.

The NSW Government is investing through the CBP in infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental, and recreational outcomes, while also promoting community participation, inclusion and cohesion.

Since 2009, the Community Building

In 2022, there was a maximum of $400,000 to allocate in each electorate. Incorporated not-for-profit community organisations and local councils are eligible to apply for grants of between $5000 and $150,000.

The average grant awarded is around $20,000.

In our readership area Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Life Saving Club Inc., North Arm Cove Community Association Inc., Myall Coast Radio Inc, Pindimar Bundabah Community Association, Karuah Rural Fire Brigade and Delhuntie Park Youth Care and Lifestyle

The 2023 round of this program will open in a few months and community groups are encouraged to apply for infrastructure funding.

Contact your local state member for further details.

In addition the Bulahdelah Chamber has set up a fund from the proceeds of the sale of the old doctor’s surgery and funding is available to not-for-profit organisations in the 2324 postcode for infrastructure projects to $1000.

Contact the Chamber at bulahdelahrtc@ bigpond.com for more information.

Clean Up Australia Day in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest

By John SAHYOUN

CLEAN Up Australia Day is an annual event that inspires and empowers communities to clean up, fix up and conserve our environment.

Since 1989 more than 20 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia Day activities and events.

The nationwide event is to be held on Sunday March 5 and the theme is ‘Step up to clean up’.

The focus of this event is as much on preventing rubbish entering our environment as it is removing what has already accumulated.

Over the recent holiday period there has been a build up of unsightly rubbish, especially along roads where irresponsible people casually throw rubbish from their cars

Site coordinator for the Tea Gardens/ Hawks Nest clean up, Ken Paton OAM told

NOTA, “Last year we collected half a truck full of rubbish.

“I would encourage people to recycle as much as possible, particularly through the earn and return scheme,” said Mr Paton.

This year rubbish will be collected in the area from the Hawks Nest Surf Club through to the industrial estate in Tea Gardens.

The main benefit besides the removal of rubbish is about building up the community.

“It’s about getting your community involved and creating networks,” said Mr Paton.

If you are interested in helping out, registration is at 8.30am on 5 March opposite the Fire Station on Marine Drive where collection bags can be obtained.

This event will be followed by a sausage sizzle for the volunteers.

To find out more visit www.cleanup.org.au or contact the site coordinator on 0411154296.

q Clean Up Australia Day is coming to Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.

STAY VIGILANT

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while the other was located in the surveillance (purple) zone at Tea Gardens.

“These developments will see the eradication and surveillance zones expand to the west in the Hunter area, as well as a slight expansion of the Central Coast eradication zone to the north,” Dr Kumar said.

“The new detections are not unexpected with the level of surveillance work being carried out in the purple zones, where response teams have tested more than 33,000 hives on top of the 102,000 that have

been tested by beekeepers.

“One of the new infected premises came through self-reporting which is encouraging to see as it is essential that industry continues with their high levels of surveillance and basic hive hygiene.”

Destruction of hives has begun at the infected properties and trace investigations are underway.

Days later, new detections of Varroa mite were confirmed in beehives at two locations near Taree.

Dr Kumar said both sites were clearly linked to known properties in current eradication zones through

the illegal movement of beehives.

“These detections have resulted from careful tracing and surveillance of hives in the declared eradication zones and show that our approach is working,” Dr Kumar said.

“Interviews with beekeepers in the restricted zones near Millfield and Wyong revealed the movement of hives from those sites into the Taree area.

“NSW DPI is investigating the circumstances surrounding the movement of hives to both sites.

Penalties for illegally moving hives can be up to $1.1 million or

imprisonment for three years for individuals and $2.2 million for corporations.”

Testing at the two sites at Taree and Wherrol Flat confirmed the presence of Varroa mite in a small number of hives which were moved into the region in December.

Urgent tracing has ruled out further movement of hives off the Taree site and is underway in relation to the Wherrol Flat site.

Tracing has also identified four movements of beehives from the surrounding areas since December to other locations in the state, but these are considered low-risk given the distance of those hives

from the two infected sites.

Dr Kumar said NSW DPI would issue individual biosecurity directions to prevent the further movement of beehives in those four cases as a precaution until testing can confirm they are free of Varroa mite.

“While this is the first detection outside of a restricted zone for some time, the clear link between the point of origin and the Taree sites gives us confidence that our tracing and surveillance approach continues to be effective,” Dr Kumar said.

“The critical task now for beekeepers is to report any hives they have in the

Koala sighting a pleasant surprise for Seniors Expo volunteers

on the Myall Koala and Environment Group (MKEG) stall at this year’s Seniors Expo in Hawks Nest got a pleasant surprise with an unexpected koala sighting

MKEG was using the stall to promote their environmental work, raise funds and give away koala

“It’s a great way to engage with people who might care about our environment, but don’t know how to help,” says volunteer Adrienne Ingram.

a koala as it helps us and researchers track how koalas are doing,” she added.

MKEG Secretary Ian Morphett said koala sightings are becoming less common, especially in their traditional habitats in Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens.

“That’s why it’s important everyone contacts us whenever they see a koala, whether it’s in town or elsewhere in our area,” he said.

enough to spot this koala while promoting koala conservation.

“We always get new members, but this year a resident from Bundabah dropped by to tell us about a koala he’d seen along Pindimar Road.

“We urge people to report whenever they see

“Koalas can be a measure of the health of the environment, especially when it is under threat from things like land clearing, traffic, dog attacks and global heating.

“We all need to do our bit now and for future generations,” Ian added.

Dinosaur loose on Bennetts Beach

EACH month a photograph is selected at the Myall U3A Photography Group’s meeting to be printed in News Of The Area.

This month’s theme was ‘Kin’ and the photo was submitted by Mandy Craig.

“The subject for February was Kin so when my Grandson Noah visited Hawks Nest in December, we went down onto Bennetts Beach where I took a picture of him running,” Mandy said.

“It was just an ordinary snapshot of him but I decided that the picture needed something to make it extraordinary, so taking his love of dinosaurs to the next level I loaded a picture of a T-Rex into Photoshop and positioned it in behind Noah and then YouTubed how to add a shadow to give it a bit of reality.

“It now looks like Noah is taking his dinosaur out for a run on the beach, hence naming the picture ‘Come on Rexy’,” Mandy said.

For information on the Myall U3A Photography Group contact Paul at mulvaney@bigpond.com.

Taree zones, and any hives they have moved through those areas since December so that we can test those hives and confirm these are isolated cases.”

Two additional infestation sites near Millfield were also identified in the surveillance zone near Millfield.

The new cases bring the total number of infected premises to 118 since Varroa mite was first identified at the Port of Newcastle in June 2022.

For more information visit https://www.dpi.nsw. gov.au/varroa.

Emergency Care of Children

by Catherine Williams

Unfortunately, the news is full of horror stories about parents being involved in family violence related incidents which end with the murder or serious injury to one parent, and the other parent being taken into Police custody. While harrowing for the community and devastating for the families involved, the question remains, what happens to the children who are left without parents due to injury, death or imprisonment?

From mid-2022 the Federal Circuit & Family Court of Australia introduced a “Critical Incident List” where cases can be brought before the Court on an urgent basis, within 7 days where possible, to allow a non-parent carer to ask for parental responsibility orders about those children. An application can be made through the Critical Incident List where:

1. a non-parent is caring for a child;

2. the child is unable to be cared for by a parent because of death, critical injury or the incarceration of one of the parents because of a family violence incident; and

3. where the applicant is asking for parental responsibility so they can make appropriate arrangements for the child or children to attend school, be provided with healthcare and so that arrangements can be made about where the child or children will live.

The normal “pre-action procedures” that would apply to children do not apply when an application is made to the Critical Incident List. This means that the carer does not need to attend mediation or make any attempt to try and negotiate with a surviving parent before they apply to the Court.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

Photo: Graeme Beath.

MULLANE & LINDSAY TAKING THE LEAD

q Myall Koala and Environment Group volunteers Lauri and Jane Collison, David and Adrienne Ingram.

Some

A big future for Olivia Smith

BULAHDELAH Central School (BCS) have offered their congratulations to recent graduate Olivia Smith, who has been named the 2022 School DUX.

This prestigious accolade recognises academic excellence and is awarded to the BCS student who achieved the highest ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) in the HSC.

Olivia completed her HSC over two years as part of the Senior Vertical Curriculum offered at BCS. She achieved excellent results in Advanced English, Mathematics, Geography, Legal Studies and Primary Industries.

Olivia also successfully completed a School Based Traineeship at Gloucester Veterinary Clinic as part of her HSC.

“Olivia completed her entire thirteen years of schooling at BCS,” said BCS teacher Wendy Parsons.

“She is to be commended on her outstanding work ethic, dedication and self-motivation.”

We

In addition to being named the school DUX, Oliva was also the recipient of the ADF (Australian Defence Force) Future Innovators Award, the David Gillespie School Community Service Award and the Mid Coast Connect VET (Vocational Education and Training) Student of the Year.

Olivia has now commenced a full time position with Gloucester Veterinary Hospital as a Vet Nurse.

“

q Bulahdelah Central School’s 2022 School DUX Olivia Smith with principal George Frangos.

q Olivia achieved excellent results in Advanced English, Mathematics, Geography, Legal Studies and Primary Industries.

q Since graduating, Olivia has commenced a full time position with Gloucester Veterinary Hospital.

New report shows forestry carbon emissions higher than expected

By Andrew VIVIAN

A NEW report released last Thursday, titled ‘NSW Forest Carbon: An Effective Climate Change Solution’, shows that logging in New South Wales emits 3.6 million tonnes of carbon each year.

The report says that this equates to 840,000 cars, or the emissions from Australia’s aviation industry.

It complements another two reports which indicate that Victoria’s native forest logging industry emits 3 million tonnes of carbon each year, while logging in Tasmania emits 4.6 million tonnes.

The figures show that protecting native forests in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania would prevent 212 million tonnes of carbon from entering the atmosphere by 2050, the equivalent benefit of shutting down Australia’s dirtiest coal power plant for 22 years.

Dr Jennifer Sanger, from the Tree Projects, is the

author of the three reports and says the results are alarming.

“I think many Australians would be shocked to find out that native forest logging is such a high emitting industry,” Dr Sanger said. The reports were written in response to the lack of transparency in current emissions reporting requirements.

“Due to the way that emissions are reported, the emissions from native forest logging are not separated from the carbon dioxide absorbed by our forests,” said Dr Sanger.

“Only a net figure is reported, which masks the true level of forestry’s emissions.”

The NSW report states, ‘When forests are logged, two-thirds of the carbon is released within two years.

‘Some of these carbon dioxide emissions will be recovered as some native forests regrow after logging.

‘However, it takes many

decades to centuries for forests to capture lost carbon’.

Dr Sanger’s report says that two-thirds of the forest’s carbon is released within a few years, while the remainder can take up to 50 years to be emitted.

It says that, when a native forest is logged, two-thirds of the carbon is released within two years because most wood removed from the forest is wood chipped and turned into short-lived products like paper and cardboard.

The burning of waste left on-site and mill waste also releases greenhouse gases immediately.

It acknowledges that sawn timber has the longest lifespan of up to 90 years, but claims this only makes up four to eight percent of the forest’s carbon.

Although forests that are logged are regrown, it can take decades, or longer, to recapture the emitted carbon.

“We need to act now on climate change and for Australia, this means ending

native forest logging,” Dr Sanger said. She said protecting forests is a low-cost, effective and immediate way to achieve

emissions reduction.

“If the Australian Government wants to get serious about climate change then they need to act on this

issue.”

The reports can be found at www.thetreeprojects.com/ forestcarbon.

Mayday on the Myall

By Marian SAMPSON

MAYDAY!, MAYDAY!, MAYDAY! - it is the call no one on a vessel wants to make.

It was the call that Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage responded to on the Broadwater of the Myall River when a jet ski came into trouble last Saturday.

“Our vessel LT30 was out training in the morning,” Mick Chubb, Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage, told News Of The Area.

“Just after 9am a Mayday call was received at Marine

Apply for funding to bring your event to life

ARE you planning to hold an event or festival on the Myall Coast?

Apply for event sponsorship from MidCoast Council between 1 - 31 March 2023.

“From art shows and music festivals, to sporting events, food, fashion and everything in between, our events celebrate all the MidCoast has to offer,” said MidCoast Council’s Manager of Growth, Economic Development and Tourism, Deb Tuckerman.

“They connect our residents and communities, attract visitors to the MidCoast and help to boost

the local economy.”

There are three categories of funding in the sponsorship program.

You can apply for up to $2,500 in the Community and Local Events category (events held between 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024).

This category supports events primarily aimed at local audiences.

Apply for up to $10,000 in the Events and Festivals category (events held between 1 July – 31 December 2023).

This category supports events that attract visitors from outside the MidCoast region.

Funding is also available in the Regionally Significant category for events that showcase the MidCoast on a much larger scale and would be difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Organisers of 'Regionally Significant Events' should contact our events team prior to application on 02 7955 7461.

“We welcome event organisers to apply for funding to get their event off the ground and help put the MidCoast region on the map,” added Ms Tuckerman. Check the event sponsorship guidelines online to assist you to apply.

Rescue Port Stephens in relation to a jet ski with two persons on board that had sunk in the Myall River.

“The two persons were in the water.”

The crew on LT30 stopped their training exercise and immediately responded, headed for the Myall River and the site of the incident.

The journey for the rescue was approximately two nautical miles.

“Fortunately there was a high tide and our vessel was able to navigate the river.”

The two jet ski riders had made it safely to the river bank and their now semi-submerged jet ski was with them.

The two persons were uninjured from the incident.

“To complete the rescue the two persons from the jet ski were taken onboard LT30.”

The jet ski was refloated, was attached to LT30 and taken back under assistance to Hawks Nest.

“A good ending for what could have been a serious incident,” Mick said.

There are some examples of how to address the selection criteria. For further information and to apply, head to https:// bit.ly/3RTe26c.

q What happens to the carbon in logged native forests. Photo: Jennifer Sanger

q The Tri Hawks Nest Festival was organised by Elite Energy.

q Getting the jet ski crew aboard LT30 and setting up to take the jet ski back to Hawks Nest.

Bright days ahead for independent publishers

FOR the third time in less than a year, Australian Community Media (ACM) publications across the state have utilised their front pages to appeal to government to support their struggling regional newspapers.

In this latest iteration, dozens of ACM papers are asking NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and opposition leader Chris Minns to support regional newspapers in two key ways if successful at the March state election.

The first is to “Guarantee that no less than one full page of NSW government advertising will be booked each week in this and every local paper in the state”.

The second to “Reverse the 2020 regulatory change allowing local councils to bury public notices about their decisions on their websites rather than openly advertise them in the local paper”.

One of the newspapers promoting the ACM

campaign is the Port Stephens Examiner, who highlighted their risk of closing in a similar frontpage spread in December 2022.

A common thread across the campaigns is the statement “papers in peril”, a line being used by ACM to describe the state of regional newspapers across the state.

News Of The Area director Michael Wright however, does not agree with that pessimistic view on the industry.

“What I don't agree with, and what I want to distance myself from, is the doom and gloom of the ACM headlines and inferences that seem to be speaking on behalf of all community newspapers,” Mr Wright said.

“Their headlines say that dark days are ahead for communities across NSW.

“It might be dark days for ACM but it certainly isn't the case for all newspapers across NSW.

“I see bright days ahead for us.

“Tough days maybe, but certainly a future with community newspapers in it.”

NOTA Group Editor Douglas Connor, who oversees the publication of four regional newspapers from Port Stephens to the Coffs Coast, said while any and all extra advertising streams are welcomed, a weekly mandated full page state government advertisement will not be a silver bullet for regional newspapers.

“It is vital regional news outlets focus on producing high quality, hyperlocal print and digital products which tailor specifically to their community.

“The successful independent outlets which have launched in recent times in regional NSW have set themselves apart with their intense local focus; and readers, communities and local business sectors have responded to this by supporting those newspapers in terms of advertising.”

Mr Wright agrees with

the ACM push however for councils to be mandated to publish public notices in local newspapers, in the interest of transparency.

“I have seen the ACM front pages and what I do 100 percent agree with is the push to the government to reverse the 2020 regulatory change which allowed local councils

to not have to publish Development Application notices in the local paper.”

With the media landscape of Australia rapidly changing, Mr Wright sees an ever increasing opportunity for independent publishers to make their mark in regional communities.

“ACM does seem to

be struggling, and I think it suggests the era of media giants is slowly disappearing.

“I feel the long term future of rural, community and regional newspapers is in the hands of local independent publishers because they seem to be able to operate at a lower cost base,” he said.

Calls for more JPs in Port Stephens

By Jewell DRURY

NELSON Bay resident Garry Steel is calling out for a new generation to join the prestigious role of being a Justice of the Peace in the Port Stephens and Myall Coast communities.

Garry is the President of the Port Stephens Zone of the Northern NSW JP Federation.

Mr Steel moved to Nelson Bay from Newcastle more than eleven years ago and became a Justice of the Peace in order to give back to the local community.

Justices of the Peace (JPs) are volunteers appointed by the Governor of New South Wales.

The primary role of a JP is to witness a person making a statutory declaration or affidavit, and to certify copies of original documents.

JPs come from all sections

Celebrating St David’s Day on Myall Coast Radio

By Marian SAMPSON

SAINT David's Day is the traditional celebration of the patron saint of Wales, falling annually on 1 March, the date of Saint David's

death in 589 AD.

The date has been celebrated since David was recognised as a saint in the twelfth century.

Many Australians have Welsh heritage, and to

celebrate, Brian Jones of Hawks Nest has compiled a radio program to celebrate the Patron Saint of his homeland.

The St David’s Day broadcast is going live

on Myall Coast Radio on Wednesday 1 March at 1.00 pm.

The Welsh are celebrated globally for their passion for music, singing and poetry.

The program contains about eighteen eclectic musical pieces, some in the

of the community and are available across NSW.

“There is currently a shortage of JPs in the Port Stephens and Myall region,” Mr Steel told News Of The Area.

“We have an ageing population amongst the majority who hold the office of Justice of the Peace, and it is time to ask the younger generation to step up and answer the call,” Garry Steel said.

Charter Hall Salamander Bay Shopping Centre, the Amcal Chemist Salamander Bay and the Nelson Bay Discount Drug Store currently refer customers who need a JP to Mr Steel.

Locating your local JP is as easy as a google search in your area, where your local JPs will be listed.

The position of JP is purely a voluntary position

Welsh language but mostly in English, sung by Welsh, English and Australian performers.

As the Welsh are noted not only for their singingespecially at rugby matches - but also their sense of humour, you can expect some ’tongue in cheek’ moments.

The history of St David is briefly told as is the

but the younger generation should not underestimate the respect and value the position holds.

For example, the title of Justice of the Peace on a young person's resume gives them great credibility and respect from a potential employer and amongst the community.

“I highly recommend members of the community to answer the call to be a part of a new generation of JPs,” Garry Steel said.

Mr Steel offers his service and time as a Justice of the Peace voluntarily at local shopping centres and at All Saints Anglican Church, Nelson Bay on a regular basis.

To find out more information on becoming a Justice of the Peace please contact Mr Garry Steel on 0431606325.

history of the Welsh in Australia, which includes a plausible explanation of Captain Cook’s decision to name our state after South Wales.

Everyone is invited to tune in to Myall Coast Radio at 1.00pm Wednesday 1 March to enjoy the Saint David’s Day celebration.

q News Of The Area director Michael Wright is forecasting bright days ahead for independent publishers.

q Mr Garry Steel is the President of the Port Stephens Zone of the Northern NSW JP Federation. Photo: Jewell Drury.

Applications for Postal Votes open

By Marian SAMPSON

WORK, travel, illness and mobility issues can all impact your ability to get to the polling booth on election day.

For those who can’t attend in person, applications for postal votes are now open.

The 2023 NSW State election will be held on 25 March 2023.

You can apply for a Postal Vote if you will be unable to attend a voting centre on election day during voting hours (8.00am – 6.00pm).

Registered General Postal

Voters do not need to apply for these.

A postal vote pack will be sent out to you when it is available.

For a state election or

by-elections the Electoral Commission NSW must receive your postal vote application by 6pm on the Monday before election day.

Your completed ballot

Karuah Public elects school student leaders for 2023

By Marian SAMPSON

STUDENTS at Karuah Public School have been immersing themselves in democratic process to elect their 2023 student leadership team.

“Karuah Public School has been busy voting and we now have our 2023 leadership team finalised,” Sarah Foister, classroom teacher, Karuah Public School told News Of The Area.

This year students voted for their school captains and vice-captains, their sports house captains and vice-captains and their Junior AECG President, VicePresident, Secretary and

Vice-Secretary.

With student votes now counted, the 2023 leadership team can be announced.

School Captains: MollyMay Sasse and Summer Leonard.

School Vice-Captains: Maalaa McLennan and Isabelle Lewis.

Kingfisher Sports House

Captains: Bella Dickson and Chace White.

Pelican Sports House

Captains: Isla Johnson and Charlie Askew.

Swift Sports House

Captains: Alexander Saunders and Mariah-Rose Saunders.

Junior AECG President: Kyzaiah Sing.

Junior AECG VicePresident: Alexander Saunders.

Junior AECG Secretary: Mariah-Rose Saunders.

Junior AECG ViceSecretary: Matilda Blundell.

“A big congratulations to all students who were successful in gaining leadership roles,” said Karuah Public School Principal Mrs Toni Lyle.

“The school leadership team for 2023 is outstanding.”

The team at News Of The Area congratulate the new leadership team and look forward to seeing these students in action within their school community.

papers and postal vote certificate must be received by the NSW Electoral Commission no later than 6pm on 6 April.

Call for trusted adults in Port Stephens to become youth mentors

PORT Stephens based adults looking to ‘give back’ to their communities are being called upon to join a volunteer youth mentoring program to help make a difference in a young person’s life this year.

Vicki Condon, founder and CEO of Raise Foundation, said that with the difficulties of the past several years, there had never been a more important time to think about volunteering.

“We know many young people in Port Stephens are experiencing an increasing number of challenges that

impact their wellbeing, yet many are unable to access a caring, independent and trusted adult to talk to –someone that shows up each week just for them,” she said.

“With our industry leading training we can equip anyone from the community to become a youth mentor, so we’re asking anyone interested to consider signing up and helping address this urgent social need.”

The Origin Energy Foundation has been a partner of Raise since

2021, with Origin Energy employees from across the country undertaking training to become youth mentors as part of the Foundation’s volunteering program.

This year the focus is on supporting regional areas where mentors are still needed to ensure the program can go ahead.

Tania Carlos, Origin Energy Foundation volunteering program manager said, “In addition to having huge benefits for the young people involved, our

employees who volunteer as mentors have said that the connection with their mentee gave them a sense of purpose and improved their active listening skills.”

Jon*, a manager at Origin Energy started volunteering with Raise in 2021 and mentored a thirteen-yearold boy who struggled with confidence and trust in relationships.

“The main impact I noticed was the confidence he gained in interacting with adults and even starting to see it as a positive and fun

thing – all incredible steps for someone who sadly suffered great personal loss and trauma throughout his childhood.

“It made me feel really good that I could help a young person in a formative part of their lives.

“The biggest learning for me was, once I’d committed to it, how easy it was to make a positive contribution to a young person’s life.

“It’s so humbling and fulfilling and I’d encourage anyone considering becoming a mentor to have a go,” Jon said.

Evidence-led and focused on program evaluation,

Raise measures the impact of the programs and has seen the young people who graduate grow in resilience, sense of belonging and hope for the future.

Last year the Raise youth mentoring program reached more than 2,000 young people and aims to support more than 2,500 throughout 2023.

Registrations close on 24 February, 2023.

Find out more or apply to become a mentor at https:// raise.org.au/volunteers/ why-mentor-with-raise/.

*Surname of mentor withheld to protect mentee privacy.

Ladies of all ages come together at CWA

advisor Linda Drenkhahn.

“They will also volunteer

at busy times of the year such as Bulahdelah Show set up, catering for functions and Mother's/Father's Day stalls,” said BCS careers

The BCS students involved are Angel Cook, Carly Green, Jada Hall, Rachel Jenkins, Chloe

q The 2023 Karuah Public School student leadership team.

Longworth, Breanna Loveday, Emily Megson, Scarlet Ray, Bella Smith and Alliera Wolfram.

projects off the ground.”

Funding available for community or heritage projects

FIND out how you could receive financial assistance through community donations and heritage funding rounds.

Applications for funding are now open.

If you have a project to benefit the community or a heritage listed place or property, you may be eligible for a grant through the

funding programs. This funding is available anywhere in the MidCoast.

Community donations funding can assist organisations to deliver community development and capacity building projects.

The annual donations program offers up to $2000, or up to $10,000 over a twoyear period. Submit your

application by Sunday 2 April 2023.

“This funding recognises the valuable social contribution community organisations make to our region,” said MidCoast Council’s Mayor Claire Pontin.

“We know that this small amount of assistance can make all the difference in getting great community

Funding for heritage buildings is also available and is jointly funded by MidCoast Council and the NSW Government.

It offers assistance of up to $2,000, and in some special cases grants of up to $5,000 are available.

Submit your application by Sunday 16 April 2023.

“Heritage buildings are an important asset to our community, attracting

tourists, increasing pride in the community and giving us a sense of who we are and where we’ve come from,” added Mayor Pontin.

As part of the application process, eligible property owners must demonstrate their contribution to the project, as the grant cannot make up more than 50 percent of the total project cost.

The local heritage fund focuses on preserving our region’s heritage and creating

sympathetic renovations and improvements to our buildings and places.

“This program has supported some wonderful restoration projects over the past five years and we’re excited to announce this funding opportunity for 2023,” Mayor Pontin said.

“These funding programs enrich our way of life and add value to our area.”

Apply now as a first step towards getting your project up and running. You can find the funding criteria and application forms at www. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/grants.

Free workshops for community groups

MIDCOAST Council invites community groups and organisations to a free workshop in March delivered by The Grants Guy. The free and informative sessions are for MidCoast region community groups and organisations.

They will provide participants with practical, easy to use information and

resources.

Attendees can expect to learn effective ways to work with their community, create partnerships, collaborate, build competency within their organisation and plan for the future.

The workshops will cover topics including making local connections, identifying opportunities, managing

change, effective leadership, funding opportunities and more.

Keith Whelan from The Grants Guy will lead the workshops.

MidCoast Council is offering four sessions during March, spread across the region:

• 27 March –Gloucester, Avon Valley Inn,

10am - 12pm

• 28 March – Taree, Council Chambers at Yalawanyi Ganya, 10am12pm

• 28 March – Online Webinar, 6.30pm - 7.30pm

• 29 March – Forster, Club Forster, 10am - 12pm.

“We had excellent feedback from people who attended the 2022 workshops

with The Grants Guy,” said MidCoast Council’s Manager Libraries and Community Services, Alex Mills.

“Attendees appreciated the learning opportunity and said they benefited from networking with others who had the shared goal of improving the sustainability and liveability of the MidCoast.

“These workshops can

Take on the Nature Walk Challenge

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Wilderness Society is holding the Nature Walk Challenge in March, a fundraiser helping ensure Australian nature and wildlife is protected for generations to come.

From community based activism to national campaign strategies, Wilderness Society uses every available platform to give nature a voice at the negotiating table and support the life that supports

us all.

In the past few years alone, the organisation has led efforts to successfully protect the Great Australian Bight, The Munga-Thirri/ Simpson Desert, Lake Malbena and Wollemi National Park.

Through the Nature Walk Challenge, the Wilderness Society is calling for the community to help them continue their work to protect Australia's iconic wilderness, and the wildlife that calls it home.

Challenge levels start at 30km and go to 80km or as far as you think you can stretch yourself to.

“Walking in nature is always beneficial, whether for exercise, contemplation or enjoying wildlife around you,” Sue Olsson, Vice President of Econetwork Port Stephens, told News Of The Area.

“There’s the double benefit as the Nature Walk Challenge helps raise money to conserve wildlife and habitat through the

Wilderness Society.

“On the Tomaree Peninsula we’re fortunate with so many local walking opportunities.

“You can stride out along the Tomaree Coastal Walk when all the sections are complete, remembering this is a national park and dogs are not permitted.

“If you prefer a shorter shady walk, one of my summer favourites is the forested bush track at Bagnalls Beach, between the western car park opposite

Pantowora Street, walking eastward as far as you want.

“It’s initially flat with a couple of short hills approaching and passing Dutchmans Beach and along the Bridle Path to the Nelson Bay marina.

“There’s variety, views and options for low tide beach walking, best with the sun behind you,” she said.

There are also some great walks around Medowie and Raymond Terrace to enjoy like the Seaham Swamp Walk.

provide long lasting benefits to MidCoast communities by strengthening an organisation’s innovation, processes and resources.”

To book in for a workshop, visit https://bit.ly/3INhuNf and complete the short online form.

The grant writing workshops are funded by MidCoast Council.

For those living in the Myall Coast region the options around Mungo Brush are also hard to go past.

As you walk you may encounter some of our endangered species including koalas, the pied oyster eaters or even a green sea turtle if you are lucky.

So, if you are looking for the right reason to break out and get back into walking around our region try the Wilderness Society’s Nature Walk Challenge.

To sign up, visit www. naturewalkchallenge.org. au/.

weren’t able to fundraise or have the means to provide matching funding.

20 groups will be awarded funding per electorate.

Expressions of interest now open for local community projects

FEDERAL Member for Lyne Dr

David Gillespie is encouraging community organisations seeking funding support for small projects and equipment to put forward an Expression of Interest (EOI) under a new round of the Stronger Communities Program (SCP).

Dr Gillespie said the Albanese Government had kept the funding announced by the former Federal Coalition Government in last year’s budget for another round of the popular local community infrastructure program.

“This program is very

popular and has always been very competitive and oversubscribed.

“I’m delighted we will have another round to support local community projects,” Dr Gillespie said.

$150,000 has been allocated to upgrade local

community infrastructure through round eight of the Stronger Communities Program (SCP) in the Lyne electorate.

This round allows groups to apply for grants between $2,500 and $20,000 without matching funding and up to

Local governing bodies and organisations that fall under them will only be eligible to apply for up to 50 percent of the project costs and provide matching funding.

Dr Gillespie said this round of funding was designed to support volunteer and community groups which

“Projects that make a real difference to the community and provide the most benefit to community and volunteer groups are the projects this round will be the focus of this round,” Dr Gillespie said.

“I encourage local groups to lodge an EOI form by 5pm Monday March 27, 2023.”

Successful applicants will then be invited to complete a full submission.

Tea Gardens Men's Bowling Club News

By John SLATER 15 FEBRUARY

THE long dry continues with bright sunshine greeting the 52 players taking part in the Club’s Wednesday gala.

There were 10 teams of 4 and 4 teams of 3.

The morning result was decided by the “Highest winning margin” and with a margin of 14 Rob Jones, Bob Peady, Ron Rowe, and Doug Naylor were the winners.

The “Highest winning margin” also decided the afternoon game and Brian Newberry, Paul Goodwin, Mike Dellaca and Alan Greenhalgh were the winners with a margin of 25.

The Garden Eatery voucher was won by Dennis Ashbridge.

19 February

Maybe it was the hot, humid weather that kept Sunday Bowls numbers down today and there were several Sunday players

competing in the Club Championship Minor Pairs in the afternoon.

Nonetheless, those that played had an enjoyable morning and it was the Fours game with the lowest winning margin that won the day.

Congratulations to Bev Dunn, Richard Wiles, David Ransome and visitor, Greg Danvers with the winning margin of +3.

The hot humid conditions continued for the quarter

final round of the Club Minor Pairs Championship with many teams commenting on the heat.

Stephen Mount does not play a lot of bowls, but he combined well with Anthony Grant to defeat Brian Newberry and Neil Kibble 23-11.

John Moore and Roman Bondaruk were slow away and trailed in the initial stages against Graham Uff and Peter Campbell.

I noticed that at one

SPORT

stage the scores were locked at 9-9 but shortly after that Graham and Peter dropped a 5, giving John and Roman the momentum to secure the win 18-11.

Tony Butler and Rick Islaub might have been rookies a year ago, but they are no longer, putting on a polished display of bowling to defeat Rob Young and Dave Perry, 26-5.

In the remaining game, Hylton Newman and Wayne Duggan managed to prevail

over Len Baker and Glen Reinhard 19-14.

Next weekend in the semi-final round, Anthony and Stephen take on John and Roman and Tony and Rick play Wayne and Hylton.

In other news

The 2022/2023 Open Gender Pennants season starts next Saturday 25 Feb. Grade 5 will play away at Merewether, Grade 6 and Grade 7 are at home to Raymond Terrace and Beresfield, respectively.

Hawks Nest Social Club Fishing Competition

By John EDWARDS

winners: Darby Neville with a nice catch of Flathead, Bream and Tailor.

Ladies Winner: Michelle Cole who also had a good catch of Flathead, Bream and Tailor.

Myall Coast Vets

By Tony SMITH

Junior Winner: Riley Harris with a great Flathead. Thank you to everyone who participated in the event and we hope you enjoy the barbecue afterwards.

Hawks Nest Golf Club

Veterans Golf

By Julie ALDIS

By Lynda RICHARDS

TUESDAY 14 February: no bowls played due to rain.

Thursday 16 February:

The Final of The Club Championship Minor Pairs Competition was contested by Ingrid Luck and Sandra

Leisemann vs Sheril Johnson and Sue Morris.

Ingrid and Sandra started strongly and by the 7th end they held a 14 shot lead (16 v 2), this didn’t deter Sheril and Sue who never gave up and by the 15th end, with three ends left to bowl, they

By John EDWARDS

RESULTS from Hawks Nest Golf Club Thursday Night Darts on 16 February.

Winners: Barry Jones and Darren Rapley.

Runners Up: Lyn Pierson and Trevor Wall.

Ladies Highest Score: Sandra Hagan -125.

Mens Highest Score: Darby Neville -140.

Darts are on every Thursday night, names in by 6.45pm, darts start 7pm sharp.

Darts are available on the night if needed.

Everyone is welcome to play.

Golf Club

By Thora-Lou SMITH

THE ladies played a single stableford on Wednesday Feb 15 and the winner was M.South with a terrific 43pts. T-L.Smith was runner up with 33pts and B.Gordon won the jackpot and the NTP.

19 Vets played on Thursday Feb 16 and the winner was T.Griffin with 39pts on a c/b from R.Norberry.

D.Johnston was 3rd with 37pts and NTPs were R.Norberry, R.Winter and D.Wilton.

Saturday Feb 18 saw the running of the 3 Man Ambrose Championship (2022), and 30 players contested the event. The Champions are K.Hughes, G.Willadsen and J.Crockett with 60.4nett from A.Jobson, W.Coleman and D.Coleman with 60.9nett. J.Parnell, R.Norberry and Z.Watt were

3rd with 61nett.

All the teams came in with excellent gross and nett scores (67 - 74).

NTPs were M.Bramble, A.Bensen and A.Jobson while the long drivers were C.Wheatley, J.Parnell and B.Gordon. Only 4 ladies braved the heat and played a stroke round and A.Benson was the winner with 79nett.

B.Gordon was 2nd with 80nett on a c/b from M.South and T.Stellema.

had reduced the difference in the score to 7 (19 v 12) and were still in with a chance.

Their dreams were shattered on the 16th end when Ingrid and Sandra added 6 points to their tally, the score now 25 v 12.

They then gained another 3 points the next end (17th) and claimed victory.

Congratulations to Ingrid

and Sandra on your win and well done to Sheril and Sue on bowling through to the

Dean. q Winners Ken, Garry and Jim.

Final. Social bowls played 3 games, 3 bowls Triples 12 ends with a win to Lyn Nightingale (swinger Lead), Irene Roberts and Lynda richards 10 v Lyn, Maynie Roberts and Lorraine Murphy 8. Chrissy Buddle (swinger Lead), Dorothy Thompson and Bette Saillard defeating Chrissy, Deb Gardner and Pat Baker 13 v 10.

A win also to Jan Coomer, Bev Dunn and Robyn Beaumont 16 v Carolyn Fredericks, Neryl Grehan and Dale Winter 7.

Friday 17th February: Great bowling by Sheila

Rattray, Irene Roberts, Ingrid Luck and Robyn Beaumont who were Runners Up at Heaton Birmingham Gardens Fours Invitation Day.

Format for play here was 2 games of 10 ends, our ladies won both their games 12 v 6 against Lemon Tree Passage and 12 v 9 against a Fingal Bay team.

They were just 1 point off being overall winners, that honour going to a Wallsend Four.

Coming events: Thursday 23 February, Round 1 Novice Consistency and Saturday 25 February Open Gender Pennants commences.

q Winner Darby Neville. q Shauna Harris.

q John Edwards cooking the barbecue.

HAWKS Nest Golf Club Lady Veterans Golf Competition for 16 February 2023

q Winners Barry Jones and Darren Rapley with runners up Lyn Pierson and Trevor Wall.

q Runners up Al, Wayne and

q Runners up in the Heaton Birmingham Gardens Invitation Day were Robyn Beaumont, Irene Roberts, Ingrid Luck and Sheila Rattray.

q Ingrid Luck and Sandra Leisemann, winners of the Club Championship Minor Pairs with runners up Sue Morris and Sheril Johnson.

Farmhouse Lifestyle Myall Street

Lot 28/34 Glen Ayr Road, Girvan

Price: $1,500,000

3 beds, 1 bath

THIS picture-perfect acreage awaits you and your tree change desires.

On approximately 50 grazing acres is a lovely timber weatherboard three bedroom home with wraparound verandas.

Comfortable country living with polished timber floorboards, high ceilings and French doors leading to the deck.

The open plan living space consists of a laminate benchtop and timber cabinetry kitchen, gas cooktop, electric oven and range hood, a wood fire and reverse cycle air conditioning.

The wide timber verandah area features an outdoor kitchen and bar space.

Kick back, relax and enjoy the views of your acreage, including the large water lily covered dam, and permanent creek.

There are also four other stock dams, rainwater tanks plus bore water.

The property lends itself to cattle, horses, goats, or alpacas.

There is also a set of steel stock yards with crush and race.

Shedding in abundance an approximate 9 x 12m black colorbond lockup shed with high roller door, power, insulation, and concrete floor.

Also, a series of combined iron and timber

shedding, including stabling areas and a chicken coop.

Within this is a sealed and air-conditioned unit with a kitchenette.

Perfect for an office, guest space or tack storage.

Currently tenanted at $600 per week with excellent tenants.

Tar sealed frontage in a tranquil area.

Located an approximate twentyminute drive to Bulahdelah and Stroud, an approximate 45-minute drive to Medowie and Raymond Terrace and approximately one hour to Newcastle.

Approximately two hours to Wahroonga, Sydney.

For further information please contact Denise on 0414 725 482.

126 Myall Street, Tea Gardens Expressions Of Interest

THIS solid t�o-story, five bedroom home is built on a 632m2 block of land situated in the heart of Tea Gardens.

Only 600 metres approximately to cafes, the Hotel, the Country Club, ferries servicing Nelson Bay and the beautiful Myall Lakes waterways.

This property is also close to transport and the local primary school.

A major feature of this home is the two separate living areas, perfect for extended families or as an investment in today's buoyant rental market.

Downstairs, you will find a fully self-contained flat including a master bedroom with an extra-large built-in

Street Magic Sensational Semi-Rural Opportunity

robe, kitchen, a second bedroom, lounge/dining areas, laundry, bathroom and an undercover entertaining area.

The double garage has internal access and there is extra storage under the stairs.

Upstairs you will find bright and airy open plan living and dining areas with a kitchen to the side overlooking the backyard, three more bedrooms, bathroom, and on either side of the home two large verandahs extending the length of the house.

Air conditioning is an added bonus.

This is a rare find and a great opportunity for the holiday maker or keen investor.

Contact us today to arrange a private inspection.

Inspections are by appointment only.

Call John Rumble on 0425 289 200.

1 Mahogany Drive, Gloucester

Sensational Semi-Rural

Price: $995,000 - Partial WIWO

4 beds, 2 bath plus granny flat

BLENDING beautifully with its surroundings and on a picture-perfect one-acre (approximately) parcel in one of the area's most sought-after locations, this semi-rural wonderland offers an enviable family lifestyle on the outskirts of the town of Gloucester.

Impressive in its design with the finest of fixtures and fittings, this beautiful home will continue to excite with its established gardens, fabulous enclosed alfresco and a fully self contained granny flat.

The heart of the home is a stunning well-equipped gourmet chef's kitchen with

40mm Caesar stone bench-tops and an abundance of storage.

The kitchen flows seamlessly into the light-filled living and dining domain where glass sliding doors allow for an effortless transition to the sprawling alfresco terrace.

Conveniently attached to the main house the comfortably sized, self contained granny flat, ideal for teenage/in-law accommodation or AirBnb, enjoys air conditioning and prestigious views of the backyard.

The surrounding grounds are cleverly constructed for low maintenance but easy on the eye and well maintained!

Encompassing a three-bay machinery shed, a combined total of 15,000L in water tank storage, new pumps, a delightful gravelled sitting/bonfire area, and plenty

of lush level lawn for your kids and furry friends to run and play!

This blue-ribbon location enjoys a peaceful sleepiness yet provides outstanding convenience - close to shops and schools and Gloucester's bustling town centre.

Enjoy a multitude of recreational adventures, entertain all year round or simply relax and enjoy the serenity.

For further information please contact Denise on 0414 725 482.

The Write Direction

By John BLACKBOURN

The election countdown is on

IN just under five weeks time, on Saturday 25 March, the NSW State Election will be conducted.

This event provides us all with the opportunity to vote for the politicians who will guide us through the next four years of our state’s development.

Many voters have rusted on preference for a certain political party, but others might decide to change their vote in favour of a range of policies being promised which appeals to their way of thinking.

Others will vote for single issue independent candidates or select a minor party that basically represents an overall view of the direction in which they will be happy to see provided.

But in all these cases, these candidates need to be out there in the public delivering their expectations.

This is where we have issues in the Port Stephens electorate, where we seem to have a shortage of known candidates to deliver these promises.

Obviously the sitting Member will be available to offer herself for re-election and no doubt will carry the endorsement of her party.

However, does anyone out there know who the alternative candidates are and who they are representing?

They must be highly informed residents if they are aware of these people because I have not seen any publicity of names or Party of endorsed candidates who are lining up to contest this election.

My research has shown that the Coalition parties have decided via their agreement that this electorate is the preserve of the Liberal party even though we are represented Federally by the National Party.

But with five weeks to go, who is that candidate and what is she or he offering to deliver when elected?

We cannot vote locally for any of the party leaders who would hold the role of Premier or potential Premier as they represent other state electorates, but I would have thought that with only five weeks to go, people should be taking a lot more time and effort about getting out there with policy and getting into it.

Have they ever visited Tea Gardens, have they ever been to Hawks Nest, Pindimar, Bundabah or North Arm Cove?

If they have, what do we know and think about them and are they suitably successful and qualified for us to put our trust in them?

I believe at this very late stage in the political process we still do not know who we are being asked to vote for.

We have seen “leaders' picks” being forced upon voters in past elections and from my personal experience I would hate to see a local government councillor foisted upon us by any political party.

The residents of this electorate deserve a lot better than last minute decisions on who is best qualified to represent us and I would have thought the democratic process should go a lot deeper and have a lot more meaning for our future for the next four years in this part of the premiere state of Australia.

Many of those amongst us might remember the long held perception that selecting a politician is similar to growing bananas.

They start out straight and green but once elected they mature and become yellow and bent.

Our absolute priority must be to prevent that from happening, so we need time to be familiar with the candidates before we entrust our vote to them and that is something we do not appear to have in this state electorate.

CONTACT JOHN: johnblackbourn41@gmail.com

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

On theCouch

DEAR Jasminda,

MY girlfriend leaves her GPS on in the car even when I know how to get to the location.

We can't have a decent conversation because of this.

Bill S.

Dear Bill,

HAVE you been in a relationship for a long time?

Do you find your directions are offered in less than helpful ways, such as two seconds before your girlfriend needs to get in the right lane when she is in the left lane on a multi-lane highway?

Return Fisherman’s Village to holiday spot

DEAR News Of The Area, MY family and I used to go on holidays to Swan Bay and have some wonderful memories.

It is heartbreaking to see what has happened to this place.

I pray that Port Stephens Council does the right thing and makes this place a beautiful, relaxing, holiday spot that families can enjoy again.

Regards, Evelyn WALL, Kincumber.

An inappropriate site for a drug and alcohol rehab

DEAR News Of The Area,

MY name is Michelle Shetab and I am one of the owners of the Fisherman's Village (FV) holiday facility at Swan Bay.

In the past two and a half years, many owners and holidaymakers could not come to Swan Bay due to Covid, which resulted in more cabins being made available to Connect Global (CG). During this time, CG expanded and grew in numbers.

It is important to point out that CG does not own any properties in our holiday village.

Mr Pene's "business partner", Mr Hilton Grugeon, and his son are directors of a company that owns the properties at FV that CG is using for their clients. I believe Mr Grugeon's properties are leased to CG.

I can confirm that Mr Ross Pene personally has started defamation action against me which I am fighting.

About 25 people (families with children) that are hit hard by this terrible rental crisis reside in the village alongside the clients of CG.

Some of the clients are there on drug dealing charges, kidnapping, violence toward women, and other serious charges.

Some are under house arrest and walk around with ankle bracelets in the holiday village.

I am confused about Mr Pene's comment that "we are not in a third world

country".

Is Mr Pene implying that FV should not be a tourist facility because it is substandard?

Many of the clients of CG are paying this charity a fee of $35,000 plus weekly rent of $350 to share one of the cabins in FV.

The fees seem to me to be for a luxury high-end facility and not one in a third world country.

We have obtained photos of bikie gang members visiting and staying at the village and attending the C3 church with Mr Pene in their colours.

Some of these were taken directly from Mr Pene's Facebook page.

There are various dates that indicate to me that they attended regularly.

Alcohol can be seen in some photos and in the fridge of the CG where they hold their meetings.

I will leave it to the Longriders Christian Motorcycle Group to confirm if Mr Pene is the president of any chapters as to my knowledge, that is no longer the case.

In my opinion, the reason there is intense scrutiny from the charities board against CG (according to the article) may have nothing to do with rumours but with the fact that Connect Global Charities' financial reports for 2021 were due by 31 January 2022 and are about thirteen months overdue.

I firmly believe that everyone deserves a second chance.

Do you punctuate your directions with swearing and hand-wringing and rude comments that have 'licence' and 'cereal packet' in the same sentence?

I can completely understand your partner's desire to use a GPS with its unharried, self-assured voice assistant.

This person speaks in a calm, modulated tone and no matter what situation you find yourself in, she doesn't get stressed, or shout, 'Well, now where the bloody hell are we?' when your partner veers off course.

Instead, she politely and serenely returns your partner to her desired route.

In fact, she'll also be notified when there is a speed camera and how many minutes and kilometres to the destination, which is far more helpful than 'Well, great, now we'll be late.

They will have already eaten all the hors d'oeuvres' which your partner no doubt pronounces 'horse doovers' because he's not as cultured as the Sat Nav woman.

And then, her piece de resistance: a definitive 'Arrived' delivered with such confidence, that you can't help but feel in control.

There is absolutely no joy to be gained from getting directions from someone you're in a relationship with.

So let your girlfriend continue to use her GPS and converse once she's not in the advantageous position of one foot on the accelerator and two hands behind the wheel.

The clients of any rehab deserve to have a place where they are not tempted by others drinking within metres around them, which in my opinion can jeopardise their recovery.

All my concerns above make FV an inappropriate site for CG.

Council has received over 70 objections and some serious concerns have been raised against the DA.

I believe there is a need for a proper investigation.

It also shows that Council has a duty of care towards the people of Swan Bay and the clients of CG.

Kind regards, Michelle SHETAB.

READING by Lynne Miles: John 6: 1-14 (Abridged) "In Tiberias, a large crowd of 5000 had gathered to hear Jesus speak. They became hungry. Jesus saw their need. The disciples told Him that a young lad had five loaves and two fish for his lunch. Jesus prayed, giving thanks to God for the food and began to break it into baskets distributing it to the crowd. After the feast there were twelve baskets of food left. The people said, "Truly this is the Prophet who is come into the world."

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

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Hawks Nest Golf Club

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Nerong intersection drop point

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R&R Property Stroud

Post Office/newsagent Stroud

I almost purchased in Swan Bay’s Fisherman’s Village

DEAR News Of The Area,

I DECIDED to purchase cabin number 24 in the Fisherman’s Village at Swan Bay.

We met with the agent on the date and time specified and conducted a property inspection of the cabin and the facilities.

I found it strange that there were a lot of men in the village and only one woman with a couple of kids.

Being a weekend, normally a holiday village would be packed with people (people, kids, families etc) and people would talk or acknowledge you as you walked by.

But the men avoided eye contact and would change direction when they saw us.

Even though I was a bit uneasy, I still decided to purchase the property and paid my deposit.

I went back for a second visit

before finalising my purchase.

It was late afternoon/evening and I was confronted by a man who was blocking my path.

As I was purchasing in the village I believed I had the right to re-inspect the facility.

He did not state who he was but proceeded to interrogate me as to my reason for being there.

I travel for work and have stayed in numerous motels and other accommodation and have never been threatened in this manner.

I also believed I did not have to justify my reasons for being there to a complete stranger.

I mentioned the incident to a local who proceeded to inform me that the village was used for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. I was furious.

At no stage was I informed by the agent that this was the case, and it was sold to me as a beautiful

place to visit with my family and relax.

When I spoke to the agent again after receiving the new information and expressed my concerns, they then advised me that is what they also heard but there was no formal approval for this.

Due to the non-disclosure I, a single woman, would have put myself and my family and grandkids in a situation surrounded by men undergoing drug and alcohol treatment without knowing the safety concerns that this presents as there appeared to be no formal process in place to manage the risk.

I did not feel safe nor could I relax and enjoy my cabin, therefore I decided not to proceed with the purchase.

cabins, an open wide area, and no gates to keep people in and out and restrict unauthorised entry.

So how can they guarantee the safety of families and the community?

I will not be buying any properties in Swan Bay and I was told when purchasing that this was a neighbourhood scheme and had levies.

How is it possible to do both and also have a holiday village plus a drug and alcohol outreach program at the same premises?

My friend ended up purchasing there and has since had to take an AVO application against Mr Pene.

My friend agreed to withdraw her application after Mr Pene gave twelve months undertaking to the court not to harass, intimidate, approach, etc.

I believe it is called mutual undertaking.

Regards, S MULQUINEY.

Firmly opposed to Fisherman’s Village rehab usage

DEAR News Of

The

Area, THANKYOU for reviewing the state of affairs involving the unapproved facility at Fisherman's Village, Swan Bay.

We remain firmly opposed to the current redevelopment of Fisherman's Village from a family holiday facility to a facility that mixes families with men who are sent to Connect Global for violence, drug, and alcohol issues as determined by the NSW law courts.

The Connect Global Group has commenced an unapproved facility without consent from the Port Stephens Council and

certainly no consultation with the other owners of units at the village and no notice to the local residents of Swan Bay.

Ross Pene's comments do contain what we believe to be false statements that cannot be proved without a thorough investigation.

We have watched over several years the way in which Connect Global has sneakily infiltrated the Fisherman’s Village family holiday facility, turning it into a most undesirable, inappropriate rehabilitation centre.

Mr Pene states that 24/7 staff supervision is available, but these are normal cabins which means easy access in and out of the community as is their method of operation.

We have no objection to the rehabilitation of men with drug issues but it is simply not appropriate to mix that activity with children at the family holiday village.

Connect Global, as a charity, is charging $35,000 plus rent, plus using the men for unpaid labour.

witnessed men walking, jogging, and riding motorbikes all over Swan Bay and some are driving on public roads with unregistered cars and mopeds.

Also, the regular advertising of cars, boats, and bikes by the clients of Connect Global on the marketplace makes this place look more like an auction house than a rehab to us.

Having the backing of a prominent local developer as a “business partner” has surely raised our eyebrows.

DEAR News Of The Area, THANKYOU for your story about our fight to keep Fisherman's Village as a tourist facility, for the safety and protection of Swan Bay residents.

I feel that the readers of News Of The Area should have a little more information.

Council received over 70 objections to this DA and I believe only two in support.

I understand that Mr Hilton Grugeon, who Mr Pene describes as his “business partner", is one of the directors of FVSB P/L that owns properties in the holiday village.

I was under the impression that Connect Global is a notfor-profit charity, not a business entity, and am confused about their connection and I think it

They have altered their definition of the DA with the local council and again without any consultation with the local raises more questions for me.

Only a correct investigation can decide if this is simply a money-making organisation which pretends to be a Christian church to avoid tax or a genuine charity trying to help the community.

We are very unhappy with the lack of supervision and have levies pay for.

It seems to be that they seem to be above the law and Port Stephens Council needs to show some guts and do the right thing.

Regards, Stan and Diana WOLLEN.

Council to blame for Fisherman’s Village mess

According to our strata records Mrs Pene only owns two cabins, which they have lived in permanently against council and strata regulations since 2013, and Mr Pene only owns one cabin which he purchased in the last sixteen months.

There have been many owners who had to sell their cabins at reduced prices as they could not rent cabins to holidaymakers or even use their cabins due to this unauthorised facility. Holidaymakers felt intimidated and one even left during the night in fear according to their feedback.

I read with interest that Connect Global holds the contract for the maintenance of Fisherman's Village common areas which owners' strata

Connect Global was paid approx $35,000 last year for this to be carried out.

I am gobsmacked that "participants complete the work unpaid as part of their rehab program". Even in prison people are paid a minimum wage.

The objections to the DA seem to reflect that some people are too scared to talk publicly and have requested to remain anonymous for the fear of their safety which is of great concern to me.

The zoning does allow a transitional group but is Connect Global a rehab or a transitional group home?

Do the courts send men on bail and parole to a drug and alcohol rehab or a transitional group home or a holiday facility?

It seems convenient to try and get approval for a transitional group home just because it fits

under the zoning.

What we are facing is an approved tourist facility that has been taken over by a drug and alcohol rehab without council approval and in order to tick some of the boxes, have changed the DA to a transitional group home.

Do the courts even know where they are sending these men to and the exact setup?

We can blame Connect Global or the Swan Bay Action Group all we want but really it is Port Stephens Council that has failed the holidaymakers, the rehab participants, the investors, and the neighbourhood where this beautiful community has become a battleground.

All those involved are victims of the inaction of PSC.

Regards, Carl PRIOR.

To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

Auspac Media

BIG CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

NEWS OF THE AREA

YOU'RE JOKIN'

Why didn’t the skeleton go to school? His heart wasn’t in it.

How does a vampire start a letter?

Tomb it may concern...

What is a monster’s favorite dessert? I scream.

What monster plays tricks on Halloween? Prank-enstein.

What kind of music do mummies love? Wrap music.

What fruit do scarecrows love the most? Straw-berries.

What does a witch use to do her hair? Scarespray.

What room does a ghost not need? A living room.

1 2 3 8 7 6 5 4 9 11 10 12

What kind of dog does Dracula have? A blood hound.

What is a ghost’s nose full of? Boo-gers.

What do birds say on Halloween? Trick or tweet.

Are black cats bad luck? Sure, if you’re a mouse.

ANSWERS: SPOT THE

1. The man is wearing a different tie. 2. The man’s coat tail is flapping upwards. 3. The hat is further away from the man.

4. One building has two extra storeys. 5. The bird’s tail feathers have blown away. HOW MANY: There are 20 bees. More fly to the left (11bees) than to the right (9 bees).

ADVERTISING

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Home and Property Improvements

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Port Stephens area.

Small to Medium Residential Building, Construction & Home Maintenance Projects.

Small to Medium Residential Building, Construction & Home Maintenance Projects

Contact David Lyne 0418 166 912 davidjlyne@gmail.com www.homepropertymaintenance.com.au

Contact: David Lyne 0418166912 davidjlyne@gmail.com www.homepropertyimprovements.com.au

ADVERTISING

Advertising within the News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call Tracey on 0484 263 558 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY DEATH IN PARADISE

ABC, 7.30pm

FRIDAY THE INTERN

NBN, 8.30pm

Anne Hathaway and Robert DeNiro star in this fish-outof-water comedy from the talented hands of writer and director Nancy Meyers (Something’s Gotta Give It’s Complicated), who has a knack for perfectly mixing sweetness with unexpected silliness. DeNiro plays smartly dressed widower Ben who, at 70, turns his back on retirement and lands a job as a senior intern at an online fashion site, run by successful businesswoman Jules (Hathaway). What follows is a learning curve for both characters, with themes of the price of success and love charmingly examined. It also doesn’t hurt that Hathaway and DeNiro possess great chemistry.

FRIDAY, February 24

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Sydney WorldPride Opening Concert. (M) Coverage of the Opening Concert of WorldPride 2023 from the Domain, Sydney.

10.00 Kylie Minogue Golden: Live In Concert. (R) Footage from various UK venues over the course of Kylie Minogue’s Golden concert tour in 2018. 12.00 Miniseries: Butterfly. (Mal, R) Part 1 of 3.

12.45 Would I Lie To You? (R) Hosted by Rob Brydon.

The stakes are higher than ever in tonight’s headscratching episode of this Caribbean-set crime drama. For his latest case, police detective Neville Parker (Ralf Little, right) is tasked with investigating the curious death of a high-profile social media influencer (Akshay Kumar), who appears to have been fatally stabbed mid-air while skydiving with a group of colleagues. When the victim is found dead, caught up in a tree with a knife sticking out of his back, Parker gets busy working out who would want him dead. Turns out, the list is rather long, but Parker never fails to methodically narrow down his list of suspects to ensure justice is served.

TUESDAY WE INTERRUPT THIS BROADCAST

SEVEN, 7.30pm

Classic sketch comedy shows Fast and Full delighted viewers for most of the 1990s with their hilarious parodies of other TV programs.

So it’s great to see the form make a long-overdue return to Aussie screens. Mad As Hell favourite Christie Whelan Browne leads an ensemble cast, also featuring Bridie Connell, Duncan Fellows (above) and Michelle Brasier, set to mercilessly poke fun at our most loved (and loathed) TV shows. Already in the firing line are Seven’s own My Kitchen Rules and SAS Australia, as well as The Bachelor Love Island and Married At First Sight

6.00

Australia. (PG)

7.30 Wrecks That Changed The World. (Premiere)

8.30 Mariupol: The People’s Story. (MA15+)

10.05 Video Killed The Radio Star. (Mlns, R)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R)

1.45 Das Boot. (MA15+v, R)

3.55 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and Charlie Albone go on a food tour of Vancouver.

8.30 MOVIE: Kingsman: The Golden Circle. (2017, MA15+sv, R) After the Kingsmen are attacked by a mysterious enemy, Eggsy and Merlin are the organisation’s sole survivors and must join forces with their US counterpart, the Statesman, to defeat the villain. Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Mark Strong.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 For The Love Of Pets. (PGm)

Two cats are reunited with their families.

8.30 MOVIE: The Intern. (2015, Mal, R)

A 70-year-old retired widower is hired as a senior intern for an online fashion startup. Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway.

11.00 MOVIE: Danny Collins. (2015, Madln, R) Al Pacino.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. Guests include Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Hugh Jackman, Michael B. Jordan, Dame Judy Dench, Eugene Levy and Pink!

8.30 To Be Advised.

10.30 Just For Laughs. (Ml, R) Hosted by Nick Cody.

11.00 Just For Laughs Uncut. (MA15+ls, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.

11.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

11.30 Australian Idol. (PG, R) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 News. 10.00 AM Agenda. 11.00 NewsDay. Noon NewsDay. 1.00 Chris Kenny Tonight. 2.00 Afternoon Agenda. 3.00 Paul Murray Live. 4.00 Afternoon Agenda. 4.30 Business Now With Ross Greenwood. 5.00 Erin. 6.00 Peta Credlin. 7.00 The Rita Panahi Show. 8.00 The US Report. 9.00 The Media Show. 9.30 NewsNight. 10.00 NewsNight. 11.00 Late Programs. SKY NEWS (53) 6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech. 1.40 Bamay. 2.05 The UnXplained. 2.50 Counter Space. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders. 9.25 Late Life Lesbians. 10.20 My Lesbian Virgin Diary. 11.15 News. 12.10am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon The Surgery Ship. 1.00 House Of Wellness. 2.00 Our Town. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 ICU. 4.00 Australia’s Best Backyards. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Border Security USA. 8.00 Border Patrol. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 World’s Most Secret Homes. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Tough Tested. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 10.30 MacGyver. 11.30 JAG. 12.30pm NCIS. 1.30 NCIS: Los Angeles. 2.30 Scorpion. 3.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 4.30 MacGyver. 5.30 JAG. 6.30 Scorpion. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 NCIS: Los Angeles. 10.20 Evil. 11.15 MacGyver. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 ST: Next Gen. 3.10 MacGyver. 4.05 JAG. 5.00 Scorpion. 6am TV Shop: Home Shopping. 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 Grantchester. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Up The Front. (1972, PG) 5.30 Murder, She Wrote. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Keeping Up Appearances. 8.40 To Be Advised. 11.30 Late Programs. BOLD (51) 9GEM (82) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 7.05pm Catie’s Amazing Machines. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Hard Quiz. 8.30 MOVIE: A Fantastic Woman. (2017, M) 10.10 Doctor Who. 11.00 Death In Paradise. (Final) Midnight Killing Eve. 12.40 High Fidelity. 1.15 Friday Night Dinner. 2.00 ABC News Update. 2.05 Close. 5.05 Curious George. 5.25 Miffy’s Adventures Big And Small. 5.35 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Pure Genius. 1.00 Raising Hope. 2.00 Full House. 2.30 3rd Rock. 3.30 Raymond. 4.00 The Nanny. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks. (2007) 7.30 MOVIE: The War With Grandpa. (2020, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Meet The Parents. (2000, M) 11.40 Alphas. 12.35am In Ice Cold Blood. 1.30 The Nanny. 2.00 Raymond. 2.30 Full House. 3.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Motorbike Cops. 1.15 MOVIE: National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon. (1993, PG) 3.00 Timbersports. Stihl Timbersports. World C’ship. 3.30 Down East Dickering. 4.30 Barter Kings. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: I, Robot. (2004, M) 9.50 MOVIE: The 6th Day. (2000, M) 12.25am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1.50pm Wiyi Yani U Thangani. 2.00 Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 3.40 Wolf Joe. 3.55 Tales Of The Moana. 4.00 Grace Beside Me. 4.30 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 NITV News: Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Extreme Africa. 7.30 MOVIE: Belle And Sebastian 2. (2015, PG) 9.15 MOVIE: She’s The Man. (2006, PG) 11.10 Late Programs. 9GO! (83) 6am Race. Continued. (2016, PG) 8.00 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 10.15 Borg Vs McEnroe. (2017, M) 12.15pm Iris. (2001, M) 1.55 Woman At War. (2018, PG, Icelandic) 3.50 Stan And Ollie. (2018, PG) 5.40 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 7.35 Firepower. (1979, M) 9.30 Mr Jones. (2019, MA15+) 11.40 The Hurricane. (1999, MA15+) 2.20am Late Programs. NITV (34) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) ON THE Box NEWS OF THE AREA MYALL COAST Serving Port Stephens, Raymond Terrace and the Myall Region Serving Port Stephens, Raymond Terrace and the Myall Region NOTA Graphics Ref: LANCEBOOTS_MYALL_22102020_NENIA 49872101 www.lancebootsfunerals.com.au

SATURDAY, February 25

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast.

Rage. (PG) 12.00 News. 12.30 MOVIE: The Boy With Green Hair. (1948, G, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 3.00 Scottish Vets Down Under. (PGm, R) 3.30 Monty Don’s French Gardens. (R) 4.30 Landline. (R) 4.55 Dream Gardens. (R) 5.25 Further Back In Time For Dinner. (PG, R)

6.25 Better Date Than Never. (PG, R) Charles prepares for his first second outing. Dianne is anxious to meet her date.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories and events as they unfold, with comprehensive analysis and reporting.

7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras. (Malns) Coverage of the 2023 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, featuring 12,500 marchers and 200+ floats travelling along Oxford Street on a revamped route from Hyde Park to Moore Park.

10.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music videos from LGBTQIA+ artists and allies in a WorldPride Party special.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Blue Water Safari. (PG) 10.05 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.00 Outside: Beyond The Lens. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Bowls. Ultimate Bowls 2022. Event 1. Semi-finals. H’lights. 3.00 Figure Skating. Four Continents C’ships. H’lights. 4.35 Secret Scotland. (R) 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (PG)

8.30 Portillo In The Pyrenees: An Emotional Journey. (PG)

9.30 Inside Windsor Castle. (PGa, R)

10.25 Great Escapes With Morgan Freeman. (Mav, R)

11.15 UFOs. (Return, PGa)

3.15 The Back Side Of Television. (MA15+lnv, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Home Shopping.

7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

12.00

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Patrol. (PGa) Follows New Zealand border officials.

7.30 Million Pound Pawn. (PG) Part 2 of 3.

8.30 MOVIE: John Wick: Chapter 2. (2017, MA15+v, R) After returning to the criminal underworld to repay a debt he owes to an Italian gangster, professional assassin John Wick discovers that a large bounty has been put on his life forcing him to confront a host of killers. Keanu Reeves, Ruby Rose, Ian McShane.

11.00 Australian Idol. (PGl, R) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PGal)

8.30 MOVIE: Grease. (1978, PGa, R)

A naive schoolgirl falls for a rebel. John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John.

10.45 MOVIE: Xanadu. (1980, G, R)

12.40 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (M, R)

1.35 The Pet Rescuers. (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)

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) Whippet rescues two men at the same time.

6.30 To Be Advised.

7.30 NCIS: Los Angeles. (Mv)

The team investigates an arson attack at a naval defence contractor that resulted in the death of a foreman.

8.30 FBI: International. (Madv) Raines goes rogue when his sister gets abducted in Kosovo, putting his job and his life on the line to find her.

10.30 To Be Advised.

11.30 Bull. (Ma, R) TAC’s strategy for a client is compromised.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Mr Pip. (2012, M) 12.30pm Red Joan.

Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG)

Philadelphia. (1993, PG) 6.50

(1988, PG) 8.30 Stage Mother. (2020,

Miss. (2020, M,

SUNDAY, February 26

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Outside: Beyond The Lens. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch.

1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike C’ship. Round 1. 3.00 Figure Skating. Four Continents C’ships. H’lights. 4.30 Surf Life Saving. Australian Interstate C’ships. H’lights.

R)

6.00 Antiques Roadshow. Hosted by Fiona Bruce.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Mv)

A skydiver is murdered mid-air.

8.30 Vera. (Ma) Part 2 of 4. The badly beaten body of a homeless veteran is found on the streets of central Newcastle.

10.05 Miniseries: Butterfly. (Mal) Part 2 of 3.

10.50 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras. (Malns, R)

1.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.15 The Recording Studio. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

5.00 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 5.30 The Abyss: The Rise And Fall Of The Nazis. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ancient Egypt By Train. (PG)

8.30 Tutankhamen. (PG) The story of Tutankhamun’s tomb.

9.40 Acropolis: The Ancient Builders. (PGan, R)

10.40 Castles: Secrets, Mysteries And Legends. (Mahv, R)

11.40 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)

1.30 Why We Hate. (Mav, R)

3.10 The Source. (Ma, R)

4.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

9.00 George Michael V Elton John. (Ma) Takes a look at the careers of two of the world’s most beloved pop singers, George Michael and Elton John.

10.00 Maternal. (Final, Mals) The women have to make some big decisions.

11.00 Born To Kill? Douglas Clark And Carol Bundy “ Sunset Strip Killers”. (MA15+av)

12.00 MOVIE: Step. (2017, PGal, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

Rules. 3.00 Late Programs.

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG) 6.00

10.10

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm Surfing Australia TV. 2.00 Hollywood Medium. 3.00 I Can See Your Voice. (Premiere) 5.00 About A Boy. 5.30 Children’s Programs. 5.50

MOVIE: The Secret Life Of Pets 2. (2019, PG) 7.30

MOVIE: Godzilla Vs. Kong. (2021, M) 9.40 MOVIE: Escape Plan. (2013, MA15+) Midnight Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords. 2.00 Hollywood

6.30 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

9.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv) When Pike is ambushed while working undercover with a Japanese crime family, the team must find the person responsible. Kai digs deeper into his investigation regarding an old friend turned criminal.

10.00 FBI. (Mv, R) A widow holds the key to a terrorist attack.

11.00 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, February 27

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Landline. (R)

11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News.

1.00 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. (PG, R) 2.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.00 Gardening Aust. (R)

4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (PG) 10.10 Confucius Was A Foodie. (PG) 11.05 Charles I: Downfall Of A King. (PG)

12.05 WorldWatch. 2.20 First Ladies. (PGa, R) 3.10 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.40 The Cook

Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Britain’s Most Historic Towns.

(PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

of 3.

9.30 Secrets Of Playboy. (MA15+)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Infiniti. (Premiere, MA15+av)

11.55 Mr Mercedes. (MA15+av, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

TUESDAY, February 28

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 Everyone’s A Critic. (PG, R) 11.00 Monty Don’s French Gardens. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Father Brown. (Mv, R)

1.45 Gruen. (Ma, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 3.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 4.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

5.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (PG) 10.10 Confucius Was A Foodie. (PG) 11.00 Charles I: Downfall Of A King. (PG)

12.00 WorldWatch. 2.20 First Ladies. (PGa, R) 3.10 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.40 The Cook

Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Britain’s Most

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? UK.

8.30 Insight.

6.00

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Remi supports Bree through her counselling.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

8.45 Starstruck. (PG) Another batch of superfans compete for a chance to win the £50,000 prize.

10.00 Australia: Now And Then. (Ma, R) Presented by Shane Jacobson.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 Busted In Bangkok. (Malsv, R)

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Australian Survivor. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

9.00 Would I Lie To You? Australia. (Ml) Two teams, including Ross Noble, Dr Chris Brown, Alex Lee and Bev Killick, go head-to-head.

10.00 The Montreal Comedy Festival: Pride Gala. (R) Presented by Rhys Nicholson.

11.00 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+v, R)

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 Australian Survivor. Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia.

8.40 NCIS. (Mv) Parker discovers that he is the victim of identity theft while investigating the unusual murder of a US Navy ensign. Knight and Jimmy face hurdles in their relationship as their connection heightens.

10.40 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Vice Captains: Ariel Case and Andrew Kent

Laura Whitby and Ajay Tufrey

Vice Captains: Ahli

and Indy Watling

Levi Cassar and Danielle Hall

Vice Captains: Cruz

and Banjo

Ryder

and Xavier Wheaton

Vice Captains: Joshua

and Ruby Dibley

WEDNESDAY, March 1

4.10 Britain’s Most Historic Towns. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

Strongholds: Megastructures Of Genius. (PG) Explores the construction of fortresses.

THURSDAY, March 2

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.55 Lady Jane Grey: Murder Of A Child Queen. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 2.15 First Ladies. (PGa, R) 3.05 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Britain’s Most Historic Towns.

7.35 Coastal Ireland With Adrian Dunbar.

8.30 American Presidency With Bill Clinton. (PG)

9.20 Miniseries: The Walk-In. (MA15+)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 L’Opera. (Madls, R)

11.45 The Eagle. (MA15+av, R)

4.05 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (Mls) Grandad’s brother decides to visit.

9.00 The Front Bar: All Sports Edition. (M) A lighter look at the world of sport.

10.00 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+l, R)

11.10 The Latest: Seven News.

11.40 HMP Styal: Women Behind Bars. (MA15+av, R)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news and events.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.40 Law & Order: SVU. (MA15+av) Gender identity politics play out in court after the SVU arrests a violent suspect who killed a detective’s teenaged child.

9.40 Fire Country. (Mav) Vince’s judgment is compromised.

10.40 Bull. (Ma, R)

12.30 The Project. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Taskmaster Australia. Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.30 The Montreal Comedy Festival. Stand-up performances from comedians.

10.30 Would I Lie To You? Australia. (Ml, R) Hosted by Chrissie Swan.

11.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news and events.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

q Bradman House. q Kenny House.

q Gemma Lucas, Ava Walkinshaw, Jasmin Carter.

q Jett Wheaton, Bruno-Nelson Marshall, Charlie Hopper.

q Tanner Myers, Bruno Nelson-Marshall and Jaxon Styles, 10 Years Champion.

MYALL COAST

Thursday, 23 February 2023

Students make a splash

KEEN to show off their skills in the pool, Bulahdelah Central students made a splash recently at the school’s primary swimming carnival. The day was a great success, with the sun shining and sportsmanship at an all-time high!

The house spirit was contagious, with parents and carers able to join back in on the fun this year. Melba House came out on top as the winning house on the day. Best of luck to the super swimmers who progressed through to the Zone Swimming Carnival to be held on Wednesday,

22 February 2023 at Tomaree Aquatic Centre.

Congratulations were also offered to the school’s newly inducted Sporting House Captains and ViceCaptains who led their teams to swimming success.

Primary Swimming

Carnival 2023 Girls Age

Champions

9 Years: Harlow Johnston

10 Years: Stella NelsonMarshall

11 Years: Abbigail Ray

12 Years: Addison

Hopkin

Primary Swimming

Carnival 2023 Boys Age

CONTINUED Page 22-23

q Melba House.