Myall Coast News Of The Area 4 April 2024

By

at Hawks Nest’s Reflections Caravan

treated to hands-on demonstrations by a joint contingent of Pindimar/ Tea

Brigade and

471 Fire and Rescue on Easter Saturday, 30 March. The big red trucks rolled up on the green outside, attracting waves of kids and families, curious to get a rare closeup look at the firies’ gear.

Kids were allowed to wield the fire-hoses, and even got to sit behind the wheel of the big trucks,

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Firies visit holidaymakers at Hawks Nest

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light up the red and blues, and hit the sirens.

RFS Deputy Captain Ralph Clark told NOTA, “It’s a great day to be outside, (it's) good to see people out and about and let the kids see the trucks.

"Hopefully we can inspire some future recruits, too.”

RFS Junior Members can join from 12 years, with the next age limit set at 16, according to RFS official information.

Several parents commented that it was “wonderful for the kids".

"They always enjoy doing this, they really enjoyed getting to try the big hoses.”

Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue 471 handed out free smoke alarms and kids’ activity books, as well as some timely seasonal advice, given that winter is coming.

“People should start checking their flues and fireplaces, coming into winter,” said Captain Jim Wisemantel.

Both Reflections Parks, Hawks Nest and Jimmys Beach, were at 100 percent capacity over the Easter long weekend, proving an optimal time for those who do not spend the whole year in the area to gain an appreciation

of what the emergency services can do.

“Reflections works alongside many community organisations in its 40 parks and is pleased to welcome into Hawks Nest Reflections one truck from Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue, and another from Pindimar Tea Gardens RFS,” a Reflections spokesperson told NOTA.

“Guests could have the opportunity to explore and have fun on the trucks (kids and adults) and also be able to make a donation into the tin if they wish to support the local community.”

q A busy day, as waves of holidaymakers came to see what all the sirens were about.

q Future recruit, ready for duty!

q The earlier they learn, the better.

q Queues of excited kids and their parents to get behind the wheel.

q One little girl got a glimpse of a future fighting fires and driving the big red truck.

Easter Art Treasure Hunt

By Thomas O’KEEFE

EASTER was an artful affair for the kids of all ages who competed in the Galleries in the Gardens (GiG) ‘Great Easter Art Hunt’ along the Tea Gardens waterfront across the Easter long weekend.

From Thursday 28 March to Monday 1 April (excluding Good Friday), GiG volunteers

planted two special ‘treasure cards’ per day along the waterfront side of Marine Drive, between the Tea Gardens Police Station and the Fish Co-Op.

“Anyone lucky enough to find them could then take their card to The Gallery on Marine Drive, and hand it in to claim their treasure of an original artwork by one

of our talented local artists,” Chez Rands told NOTA.

The artworks were 25 paintings created by local GiG members, featuring an array of beautiful, who let their passions take flight, some Easter-themed, but more often with natural and animal depictions from the surrounding area.

“The canvases were purchased by The Gallery, which then asked its members to paint on them and donate them for the hunt, as treasure for the kids,” Ian Morphett explained.

“It’s a great way to get the kids involved in art-related activities, and they have taken to it with gusto, some even spying around outside, or coming in five minutes after opening to ask ‘Have they gone out yet?’”

“The Treasure Cards are well-hidden along the waterfront in nooks and crannies and poles, amongst the Riverwalk Sculptures, or even in the pelicans' beaks,” Gail Morphett said.

“The non-Easter paintings were popular last year, so we had more of them this year – many of the winners come in looking for something for Mother’s Day, for Grandma too.”

“This is the 4th year of it, it has been a crazy success.”

Tea Gardens was packed over Easter, with most taking full advantage of the stunning natural beauty of the place, and the kids competing, some of whom came a fair way, got to act out a real discovery adventure, and take home something they can appreciate for many years to come.

by Cavelle Lindsay When a person dies with superannuation, any remaining amount is paid by the Trustee of the superannuation fund at its discretion unless the member of the fund has filed a binding death benefit nomination. Superannuation does not automatically pass under the terms of the Will unless the binding death benefit nomination provides that it is paid to the legal personal representative (of the estate) or the Trustee determines that it be paid to the estate. A binding death benefit nomination correctly executed and in accordance with the legislation and the superannuation trust deed binds the Trustee of the superannuation fund to pay the remaining

superannuation in accordance with the binding death benefit nomination. It is therefore important to have a binding death benefit nomination in respect of superannuation where there is a possibility that there will be competing claims for the superannuation. There are also taxation consequences depending on who receives the superannuation and therefore it is wise to obtain accounting advice before completing a binding death benefit nomination.

The terms of the BDBN may have a bearing on how the Will is drafted.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation

q Local girl Maddie Hodge took an Easter Bunny.

q Winner Logan White claimed the dog on a beach.

q Ruby McKeough, from Tea Gardens, liked the blue dolphin.

Casual

Traineeships – Heavy Plant, Loaders, Excavators – prepared to train the right applicant with or without experience.

Permanent Position HC & MC Truck Drivers – Cartage & supply of horticultural products, ranging from Sydney to Coffs Harbour.

Permanent Position Plant & Diesel Mechanic – positions available in our new modern equipped workshop. Working on maintenance of trucks and heavy plant.

If you are interested in any of the above positions, please call(02) 4997 9211 or email your resume and driving record to teagardens@anlscape.com.au

q Winner Eli Porter, from Tamworth.

q Winner Ashlee Cotter, from Kurrajong.

q Sunday’s winners.

Mullet on the run

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

YEAR after year, for as long as records have been kept, and long before, huge schools of mullet have travelled north along our coastline.

Spawning in the ocean is part of their life cycle which begins when fertilised eggs develop and mature in all the bays, rivers and estuaries.

Around this time of the year, Easter and ANZAC Day, the three to five year old, fully developed, river mullet leave the enclosed waters, where they are called bully or hard gut mullet, to enter the open ocean where they become known as sea mullet.

The sea mullet that arrive off our Port Stephens beaches have left southern estuary systems including Lake Macquarie and the Hunter River. The fish that have matured in the Port Stephens system, move north to Port Macquarie and above. Those that develop in rivers around Port Macquarie swim further north towards the Clarence. And so the cycle continues.

There is much misinformation which accompanies this event, as little is understood by the public. Around the world there are 72 species of mullet of which the sea mullet, which can grow over 60cm, is but one. Carrying some 5 million eggs the female is bigger than the male and frustratingly for the recreational fisher, mature fish do not feed whilst migrating. They can’t be caught.

All records and research, currently available, suggests that the annual hauling of mullet, along the east coast, by commercial fishermen is a sustainable practice.

Give it a go. Introduce fresh sea mullet to your kitchen. You will be pleasantly surprised. Mullet are not the only fish excited at this time of the year. Where you see mullet gathering, bigger fish are not far away.

Sharks and mulloway follow the mullet schools, feasting on the stragglers.

If you have never caught a mulloway, now is the time to focus your attention on the fish that can grow to an impressive 50kg. Stockton and Fingal Beaches are the most

q Commercial fishermen wait patiently for the Easter mullet to arrive.

popular for chasing mulloway particularly as the tide rises into the darkness of night. If you are considering Fingal Bay, I would suggest that you park the car at the surf club and walk around to “Green Hill” which is about halfway between the surf club and the Fingal Spit.

Best baits are big sea worms or fresh fillets of mullet tossed just behind the shore break. Then it is a waiting game.

If you are an adult at higher risk of severe illness or are 65 years and over, a free COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you every 6 to 12 months.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about what is best for you.

Fire Penalties in NSW

By Thomas O’KEEFE

RECENT bushfires have prompted a reminder from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) of the tough penalties faced by negligent fire starters.

While the RFS and its local constituents are quite vigilant about illegal fires, the recent Pindimar fires prove that serious events can erupt from negligent behaviour.

According to the Sentencing Council of NSW, the ‘Bushfire Offence’ “makes

it an offence to cause a fire intentionally, and be reckless as to its spread to vegetation on any public land or on land belonging to another; the maximum penalty for the offence is 21 years’ imprisonment and the Standard Non-Parole Period is five years".

The recent Pindimar fires are still awaiting official inspection outcomes, however, eye-witnesses during the event reported seeing several suspicious

‘heap fires’, where property owners had allegedly started burning off without a permit, during the official fire season.

"The penalties are there, but they are very hard to enforce," Pindimar/Tea Gardens RFS Brigade Captain David Bright told NOTA.

“Fire season finishes at the end March, meaning no permits are required, however, anybody intending to burn-off still needs to notify RFS and their neighbours 24 hours prior.”

q Firefighters’ efforts to prevent the recent blaze from jumping Warri Street were only cemented by eventual rain a week later.

Karuah Progress AGM

By Thomas O’KEEFE

ANOTHER year of successful community efforts, spearheaded by the Karuah Progress Association (KPA), was recognised at its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 27 March, at the Karuah RSL.

TThe small but determined group of community-minded locals recapitulated a productive 2023, including the main street's beautification and parklets along Tarean Road, Clean Up Australia Day, sponsorship of local sports clubs and ANZAC Day books, and Karuah By Night, to name a few.

The ongoing digital efforts to represent the town via the upcoming town website, and logo competition, are also moving ahead full steam, propelled by the same people who won the competitive

Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) grant.

AGM position elections were swift and unanimous, beginning with the reelection of President Breanna Landwehr, whom all present agreed had been doing great things in her first year in the role.

Vice President was Lisa Floyd, the powerhouse behind the parklets and town beautification projects, and Secretary was Marion Brown, the unstoppable force that drives community communications, including the website and logo projects, with Les Brown taking on the indispensable Treasurer’s role, and Shane Emmanuel retaining Public Officer.

“Karuah Progress Association continues to make positive changes and impact with our small but dedicated

q The devastation wrought along Warri Street, North Pindimar by an unattended heap fire last month – RFS action saved the NBN connection (two white posts) and stopped it at the fence-line.

“The RFS has not issued permits for any fires in the MidCoast District since December, due to the heightened risk in the area.”

The CSIRO has published clear information on ‘Myths and Misconceptions’ related to bushfires, including a breakdown of the ‘Fire Triangle’, the three key components that make fire: fuel, oxygen and an ignition source.

Put simply, at least one (ideally two) of these points of the ‘Fire Triangle’ must be

removed to extinguish a fire.

Haphazardly burying a heap fire does not remove the fuel, it does not totally smother, and heat retains inside burning logs for quite a while.

“Don’t start unpermitted fires, and if you do, don't bury them, and don't put big stumps in the middle of them,” Captain Bright explained.

“You don't bury a fire because chances are you are not putting it out, and it can re-ignite, which is what happened recently.”

“Fortunately, the rain came. If it hadn't, we would still be chasing it.” Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue Captain Jim Wisemantel told NOTA, “MidCoast Council's 'Clean Air Act' means no burning off in areas like Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, including timber stacks or burning green wood.”

“Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest are 'no-burn' (burnoffs, bonfires, rubbish fires, etc.) at all times of the year.”

q Members of the newly-elected Karuah Progress Association committee (L-R): Cr Jason Wells, President Breanna Landwehr, VP Lisa Floyd, Secretary Marion Brown, Fred McInerney, Robert Kucera, Treasurer Les Brown, Kylie Kaye, Shane Emanuel, Glenis McInerney.

group of volunteers,” President Breanna Landwehr told NOTA.

“With only 10-15 people, leaning into personal strengths and skills is vital, as time is a shared resource, but, collectively, we make it work, respecting what is most important.”

“With Lisa Floyd as VP, her role as a local business owner, leading beautification projects with the skills to make it work and the relationships she forms, is priceless.”

“Marion Brown as Secretary fits perfectly with her ongoing work leading the local Newsletter and

community communication, her dedication to getting a new website and logo, whilst linking the school and community engagement the whole way is testimony to her generosity and consideration of inclusion.”

“None of the work we see could be achieved in

isolation to the quality we have, especially knowing we only have 20-30 hours dedicated to this work each year in committee meetings, but countless hours behind the scenes, we have to remind ourselves of how far we have come.”

Pig Day Out

By Thomas O’KEEFE

PIGGIES flew once again at the ‘Pig Day Out’ races, held at Tea Gardens Country Club in support of the Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Lifesaving Club (TGHN SLSC) on Easter Saturday, 30 March.

Hundreds of onlookers at the annual event enjoyed the clear, 26-degree sunshine after the Good Friday rain, with a family atmosphere fuelled by the spirited Club staff, and Jamie’s freshly made delicious sushi and pizza from The Garden Eatery.

Prior to the annual event, the porcine prancers stretched their hammies to avoid any pulled porks, and were ‘auctioned off’ to some potentially lucky ‘owners’, and help out the local Surf

Club, although, none of the porky sprinters would be going home for dinner, even if they lost.

Each piglet sported a special sequined jacket, local business’ sponsorship and individual colours, all to aid the live broadcast via 'Sty Racing' all the way to the Big Screen inside, where piggy punters and families could enjoy from indoors, too.

“All racers are three to four months old, their maiden race together was on Australia Day elsewhere, and all are track veterans,”

Trent from Sandy Creek Pub in Queensland, home of Noah's Thoroughbred Racing Pigs, told NOTA.

“We’ve been doing pig racing for 24 years, with 120-150 jobs per year, mostly for charity, from Cairns to Hobart.”

The 'First Call' bugle sounded before each race,

amping up the excitement, and the racers' goal was a centrally placed one of three trays filled with creamy goodness – first to wet their snout wins.

The six porkers were off, heading in a pack through Dunlop Straight, rounding the corner to Bacon-Bouncer gate, Cracklin’ Rosie in the lead by a trotter.

The Jowler nosed ahead briefly, but was thwarted by hay bales and overtaken by Snoutstanding, Porkerface and Truffles.

Truffles got puffled, passed by Pigmaleon, but the final corner was a twoporker race.

Snoutstanding shot ahead, into the central yard, but Porkerface, hot on his trotters, found the dish first, with a photo-finish that won

one excited pig-punter a few hundred extra, and everyone witnessed to a rip-snorter of a race, with five more to go.

“Money raised at the Pig Day Out always goes to our Nippers, and essential building and maintenance projects, like the MobiMats and Youth Shed,” TGHN SLSC President Rebecca Curtis told NOTA.

“It’s not just for SLSC families and the Club, but also allows an integral opportunity to mix with the wider community.”

Pig Day Out will return later in the year in support of the RFS.

q Truffles (in red) made a valiant effort to catch up to Pigmaleon, but was stymied by the next corner.

q The Jowler and his fellow adversaries, readying to race for porcine glory!

q Dressed for the occasion, ‘Boss Hog’ Warren Gooley with Directors Heather Vaughan and Marcia Smith.

q The TGHN SLSC Nippers (with supervisors), the beneficiaries of the Pig Day Out’s fundraising.

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Raft races were all the rage

By Thomas O’KEEFE

‘ANYTHING that floats’ was the challenge, taken up with passion and zeal upon the waters of South Pindimar on Easter Sunday, 31 March.

Waiting for the tide to slowly, but surely, flow in, the army of kids took off towards the mangroves on the annual Easter egg hunt, and some are still going.

After hearing from special guest Peter Rogers from the Jimmys Beach Aquatic Club (JBAC), two boats of which had rowed over from their home launch, the kids’ tug’o’war

competition was held, with a victory to the boys’ team, although a lot of help was had on both sides.

The adults tug’o’war was a hotly contested affair, but, ultimately, the winning Tug’O’Warriors team prevailed, leaving the other side scrabbling in the sand, and the coveted prize of Ultimate Glory to the winners.

Under the watchful eye of the osprey atop the big pine tree on South Pindimar beach, several feats of glory and ingenuity were attempted and achieved upon Port Stephens’ waters when the fleet of rafts took off.

q The rafts, lining up at the start line.

Traversing a triangular buoymarked circuit, the race descended into utter chaos within seconds of officially starting, as many makeshift rafts failed to perform their fundamental floating function, and most crews ended up getting out and pushing.

Waves rippling in the wake of a passing motorboat upon the bay did not make life any easier for the seafarers.

First prize, ‘inflatable category’, went to Gigi in her winged unicorn steed, while second went to a truly novel pirate raft, ‘MV My Oyster’, made from construction materials, and the only one to actually paddle the whole way.

Third prize was awarded as much for authenticity as for pity, to the raft hastily composed of foam tubes, bottles and stubby holders, many of which scattered from its wake en route.

After the race, a free sausage sizzle was served by Kim and Mark Hill, catered by the Pindimar Bundabah Community Association, while JBAC crew ferries several kids around the bay in their big, professional rowboats.

“All raffle ticket money today goes straight to the PBCA, to assist in projects related to the Community Hall and our emergency planning,” PBCA President Vivien Panhuber told NOTA.

“We’ve broken a crowd record, it seems to get bigger each year, and will definitely happen again next Easter.”

Your local voice in NSW Parliament

q A big crowd enjoyed the kids’ tug-o-war.

q The kids tug’o’war was a tight contest.

q The Egg Hunt started first, and some of the kids are still out there, searching.

Diamond Real Estate Award

By Thomas O’KEEFE

FIRST National Real Estate Hawks Nest has been recognised for outstanding achievement at the First National Network’s General Excellence and Marketing (GEM) Awards held at the Hyatt Regency in Sydney on Saturday, 23 March.

Hawks Nest First National received the prestigious Diamond Award for Residential Sales, while the team’s Principal, John Rumble, received the individual Diamond Award for Residential Sales, with both awards recognising his and his team’s accomplishments throughout 2023.

The Sydney awards, which recognise the achievements of First National’s NSW agents throughout 2023, will soon send its winners off to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to compete for the national GEMs in May.

The Diamond Awards go to the top ten per cent of the State amongst the First National network, and this is the third year in a row that John has received the Diamond.

“These achievements are a testament to my staff’s dedication to serving our clients with the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” John told NOTA.

“We are incredibly proud of

their success and grateful for the contributions they make to our company and the real estate industry as a whole,” John added.

“The First National General Excellence and Marketing Awards are an important event as they encourage First National’s agents to aspire to an ongoing process of performance improvement that benefits customers.”

“We simply couldn’t have done it without all the staff in the Hawks Nest office.”

The local team are also homing in on a special anniversary as of 2024, with almost two decades of teamwork soon to be celebrated.

q John Rumble, proudly displaying this year’s Diamond Award, said it would not have been possible without his awesome local team.

Chamber jumps on regatta promotional opportunity

THE Myall Coast Chamber of Commerce and Tourism has come up with a clever way to promote the businesses of Tea Gardens during the upcoming Sail Port Stephens regatta, which runs on various dates through April and May.

Last year the regatta hosted 120 yachts with more than 2,000 competitors and generated more than $3 million for the Nelson Bay area.

To take advantage of

those trading opportunities, the Chamber has liaised with Newcastle Yacht Club to organise a promotional flyer to go into the ‘Skippers’ Pack’ of all competitors in this year’s event.

“We want to encourage

sailors having a rest day, associated wives and girlfriends and support staff to jump on the ferry across to Tea Gardens and see what we can offer them in our various establishments over here,” said Chris Taylor, Myall Coast Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

Biosecurity Protection Levy passes House of Representatives

THE Federal Government’s Biosecurity Protection

Levy passed in the House of Representatives last week - legislation which the Nationals are describing as a “fresh food tax” and an “attack on families and farmers”.

According to the Department of Agriculture, the Biosecurity Protection Levy will “ensure that those who directly benefit from Australia’s strong biosecurity make a modest and direct contribution to ensure the biosecurity system is sustainably funded into the future”.

The Nationals however say the new levy will force farmers to pay for the biosecurity risks of international importers.

“In what parallel universe would a government charge its own farmers to pay for the risks their competitors are creating?” Nationals leader David Littleproud said.

“This new tax will hurt families at a time they can least afford it and farmers who are already under pressure.

“It doesn’t make sense at all and comes amid a cost-ofliving crisis.

"Farmers will be forced to pass on costs, meaning families will feel more pain at the grocery checkout.”

National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke said while farmers were disappointed to see the controversial levy progress to the Senate, it was encouraging to see a range of Coalition, Greens and independent MPs validating the industry’s strong concerns.

“This was a very lonely vote for the Government, and we thank every member who voted against this bad idea.

“It’s an important

demonstration to farmers that their concerns are being heard.”

Joining opposition to the levy by the Liberals and Nationals, Greens MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown stated her party had “serious concerns about the lack of transparency and oversight” applied to the allocation of collected industry funds.

“The Greens will be pushing the government to commit to progressing a levy on risk creators in the form of a container levy,” Ms WatsonBrown noted.

Several members of the crossbench also reiterated the industry’s concerns.

Indi MP Dr Helen Haines shared concern that the

GOLDEN JUBILEE SINGING BRIDGE

“The Chamber is working with local businesses within easy access to the ferry to be part of this promotion of the ‘North Shore’ to hopefully gain increased business in April and May plus follow up business for future sailing events as well as people coming to visit here independently after the regatta.”

levy will be going into consolidated revenue, noting that “there is no guarantee that this new charge on farmers will actually go to biosecurity measures”.

“In criticising this bill, farmers are not asking the government to do all the work, because they already contribute to biosecurity measures via existing levies, on-farm activities and much, much more,” she said.

Allegra Spender MP called out “the failure of the government to follow its own processes and best practices in policy development”.

The Department of Agriculture has recognised that many primary producers already invest in biosecurity through on-farm activities, but argue more needs to be

done.

“Producers also support Australia’s biosecurity system through investment in research and development, membership fees for Animal Health Australia and Plant Health Australia, and contributions to emergency responses under deed arrangements,” the Department stated in a release in February.

“While these investments are important, they do not directly fund biosecurity costs at the border that prevent pest and disease incursions into Australia.

“These investments are not being replaced or duplicated by Commonwealth activities funded through the Biosecurity Protection Levy.”

Tea Gardens Police and the opening of the Tea Gardens-Hawks Nest Bridge

By Craig THOMAS, (then Officer in Charge of Tea Gardens Police & Water Police for Port Stephens)

THE occasion of the opening of the bridge on 6 April 1974 was very special for the local townships and surrounding areas.

During its construction Tea Gardens Police maintained special patrols of the construction site on both land and water.

Anticipating a large crowd at the opening an extra contingent of ground Police was organised from nearby stations, with the Port Stephens Water Police launch boat 'Valiant',

stationed at Tea Gardens and manned by then Senior Constable Craig Thomas, on stand-by adjacent to the bridge on the Tea Gardens side of the river to cover any eventuality.

The opening went off with a big splash.

During the opening proceedings the unexpected happened.

A young man stripped off his clothing and ran naked from the Moira Parade side of the bridge to near the top of the arch and jumped over the rails into the Myall, landing only a few metres from the stern of the Police launch.

The 'streaker' was promptly apprehended and conveyed to Tea Gardens Police Station where he was charged with 'offensive behaviour', such an act being much frowned upon in those days.

q Tea Gardens Water Police launch

‘Valiant’, used for patrol at the bridge opening commanded by Senior Constable Craig Thomas.

to be of good behaviour for a period of time.

He was bailed to appear at the next sitting of the Tea Gardens Court, where he was convicted and fined, and entered into a recognizance

With the weather and water temperature being quite cool at that time of the year, he was provided the luxury of a blanket.

It was obvious that the streaker didn’t properly plan this adventure and didn’t see the Police launch before jumping off the bridge.

This act was viewed by some as a comical incident, however the situation may have been much worse if the launch had been closer to the bridge, as he may have landed on the boat with dire consequences.

q A Tea Gardens Police patrol car on site at the bridge construction in 1973, driven by Senior Constable Craig Thomas.

GOLDEN JUBILEE SINGING BRIDGE

50 FOR BRIDGE

FROM Page 1

Gardens-Hawks Nest as well as it could, from the tiny floating platform pushed along, to the later, purposebuilt 16-vehicle punt, however, the growth of both towns simply outstripped it all.

An article published in NOTA in May 1973 said, “Whenever the BRIDGE is opened, would it not be fitting to hold a week of festivities!”.

A celebratory sentiment echoed and encouraged by the Great Lakes Shire Council, with Shire President Cr JE Ireland formally inviting all residents to join the

opening festivities, and subsequent afternoon tea at the Community Hall, in the March 1974 NOTA.

Council had even offered to provide flags and coloured lights to add to the atmosphere, printing a request for residents to decorate their homes with coloured lights in windows or trees, too.

Marine Drive, Tea Gardens, was closed between Ogden and Maxwell Streets from 12noon to 12midnight on Saturday, April 6, 1974, for a street carnival to celebrate the opening of the Bridge.

On the day, Mr Leon Punch, Minister for Public

Happy 50th Birthday

to the from Singing Bridge HNTG PROGRESS ASSOCIATION

Works, whom Council had selected to perform the opening, said, “The new $1million bridge is the most significant single work of development ever undertaken in the area.

"Towering over the Myall River, it stands as a symbol of the new era in road communications, as well as exercising a dominating influence on the local landscape; one of the immediate benefits of the construction will be its convenience to the two communities.”

Bill Lyon, who worked at Mineral Deposits locally

when the Bridge was built, told NOTA about the long waits caused by the punt’s limited capacity.

“For people who lived here in 1974, it was such an amazing relief to have an easy means to cross the river – on the Hawks Nest side, cars backed up to the Community Hall waiting for the punt," he said.

The 1974 opening was accompanied by 30 decorated floats constructed locally, festooned bicycles, horseback riders and a Scottish Band, which crossed the Bridge, while an impressive Sail Past

of dressed boats swept underneath.

Months of consternation over the official name of the Bridge resulted in the rather mundane ‘Tea Gardens-Hawks Nest Bridge’, as written on the plaque still in place today, but the propensity of the bridge’s railings to emit with a singular tone during the right wind eventually earnt our bridge a much more poetic moniker to accompany its slimline design and perfunctorily simplistic shape: the ‘Singing Bridge’.

Happy 50th Birthday SINGING BRIDGE to our

You have made our lives much easier and you haven’t aged a bit.

MYALL COAST

q The Hawks Nest side old punt ramp, slowly crumbling in the shadow of the Bridge, its many daily motorists oblivious to its history

q Decorated bikes in the 1975 Bridge Opening parade down Marine Drive, Tea Gardens, with Yacaaba in the background. Photo: Courtesy Anne Marie Barry via HNTGPA

q The road from the punt into Moira Parade, Hawks Nest, as it is today

Australians living in fear of extreme weather events

A SUMMER of wild swings

between weather extremes has left NSW residents worried that worsening floods, fires and heat will force them to move from their homes, according to the Climate Council.

According to research from the organisation, one in three NSW residents report having either been forced to move after an extreme weather event or knowing someone who has.

Four in five Australians (79 percent) say they are worried about the impact of extreme weather events on children and young people.

One in ten Australians have already been forced to move temporarily or permanently from their homes due to an extreme weather event.

One in three Australians know someone who has been forced to relocate from their homes due to an extreme weather event, and almost 85 percent are worried about the prospect of their insurance becoming unaffordable due to worsening extreme weather events.

National polling by the Climate Council identified that one in three Australians report being worried that they may have to permanently relocate because of extreme weather.

Dr Grant Blashki is a practising General Practitioner and a Climate Council Fellow.

“This summer, communities across the country were hurtled between dangerous downpours and recordbreaking temperatures,” Dr Blashki said.

“It’s understandable that Australians are anxious about what lies ahead for their homes and their families.

“The fear people have of being forced to relocate is not unfounded.

“This polling tells us that one in ten of us have already uprooted our lives due to extreme weather.

“This experience goes

beyond moving house, it means losing the wonderful support and connections that communities provide.

“Climate-fuelled fires and floods present an almost impossible choice for families who are already under severe mental stress after experiencing an extreme weather event: Do they stay in a home with ongoing risks of another fire or flood, or do they relocate?

“Relocating is an extremely difficult call for families to make, and one that reverberates throughout entire communities.”

Major General Peter Dunn, a member of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action and the former Commissioner

of the ACT’s Emergency Services Authority, said Australians are grappling “a ceaseless onslaught of extreme weather events, fuelled by climate pollution”.

“Many have lost their homes, some have even lost loved ones, and their frustration at the lack of resources to prepare and recover from these disasters is palpable.

“For too long, our leaders have given too much attention to the ambulance at the bottom of the climate change-created cliff.

“By providing the resources people need to prepare for extreme weather, we can reduce the risks that communities face and save

Stinker’s History: The adventures of ‘Clanka’ - Part 4

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

THIS story is Part Four of an ongoing series on Ronald Barry ‘Clanka’ McLean.

To read Part Three, jump online to the News Of The Area website.

Part Four - The good, the bad and the damned dangerous

‘CLANKA’ was very protective of what he considered to be local fishing grounds.

Outsiders were discouraged from moving in.

It was in 1956 when the Daigo fleet arrived, carrying Italians from Sydney.

There were four boats in the fleet - Italia Star, San Francisco, Falcon and Karla - which were all working from Sydney up to Newcastle in the springtime for tiger flathead on ‘the Paddock’, a very productive local fishing ground that was all mud and grit.

On this particular day the Italian boats were moored out of the wind in Coal Shaft Bay on Broughton Island.

Clanka and his mate Eric Tarrant were working the island for lobsters when they noticed the boats.

In Clanka’s diplomatic way, he yelled to the visiting trawlermen: “Piss off!”

This demand was followed by a bullet he fired from a .303 rifle right through the wheelhouse.

The Italian crew dived for cover.

The message was clear and the boats fired up their motors and steamed off in a real hurry.

The ‘Bosto’, at 30-odd

feet, with a three cylinder Perkins, was worked by Clanka for prawns off Newcastle.

The little boat had just enough power to tow the net to catch enough prawns to make it worthwhile.

Jim Chalkley recalled those times on the Bosto.

“I went with him two days in a row,” Jim said.

“We never got much prawns but we did have some fun hand lining those black tipped sharks, there were heaps of them around.

“Next day Clanka goes on his own and he walks straight overboard.

“He tripped or stumbled and went overboard.

“Luckily he grabbed the wire on his trawl net.

“With knee boots and all on he pulled himself up the wire back onto the deck.

“That would take a bit of doin’.”

Jim described Clanka as “wiry”, “raw-boned” and “strong as an ox”.

As well as being a physically impressive specimen, he was also known for an astute business decision.

“I saw him one Easter when he was working up here on the Big Gibber trapping snapper, shortly after he first got the ‘Shamrock’.

“Working on his own, fish trapping on the 52 footer, he went flat out from Thursday to Monday without any break at all, no sleep.

“In that week before Easter, when the prices for fish are sky high, he had 94 boxes of snapper which he hid on the ice downstairs in the boat.

“To keep them all quiet in Nelson Bay, so that no one would suspect him, he

put five boxes through the local co-op, put some more ice on his hidden fish and steamed them straight to the Sydney market where he unloaded them the same day and steamed back with the top dollar in his pocket.

“No one knew he had ‘em.

“He made a killing.”

On another occasion Clanka had been down at the Boatrowers pub in Stockton after a day's prawning.

He left the pub drunk, which I gather wasn’t anything out of the ordinary.

Motoring out to sea on the Hunter River, he was heading north, back up to Port Stephens with the automatic pilot on, when he went to sleep.

Instead of coming inside the heads to the port he overshot the mark and went between North Head and Cabbage Tree Island, straight through the surf up onto Hawks Nest Beach - which, not surprisingly, woke him up.

For three hours he tried reversing off the sand, but every time he got it off and turned square, the sea would push the boat back further up on the beach.

The ‘Shamrock’ finally got off the beach, with the help of a couple of mates when the tide came in, allowing Clanka to get the nose around and drive off bow-first.

It was at this time that he was having an argument with the Waterways Authority about the thickness of the wood which was used in the keel.

The Authority reckoned it was 1/8 inch too thin but Clanka argued that if his planking could stand

that amount of pounding by the surf, then it must be seaworthy.

That’s the way he got it registered.

It wasn’t previously registered as it was still going through court.

Nothing angered Clanka more than the law, just mentioned, introduced by the Maritime Services Board (MSB) on July 1 1972 concerning beams, planking and ribbing.

The law effectively placed restrictions on the types of fishing vessels working the open seas off the coast of NSW. The $45,000 ‘Shamrock’, 55 foot long and powered by a 220hp Mercedes diesel, was built twelve months before the regulations were introduced.

Now, along with numerous sea going trawlers, it was grounded.

The MSB informed Clanka that the planking was 1/8 inch under size and the ribbing was 1/4inch under.

The only water that the boat could work under the new law, was inside the port, an area that the boat was not designed for.

Maritime threatened that for every day that the Shamrock fished outside the heads, in the open sea, Clanka would be fined $240.

lives and homes that would otherwise be lost.

“After a summer of climate whiplash, now is the time to enlist communities and give them what they need: information about the risks they face, places to gather and make plans for when disasters strike, and resources and education on how to keep one another safe.”

Polling was conducted by YouGov with a representative national sample of 1,568 Australians.

The polling questions were designed to understand the impact of climate change and extreme weather events on the wellbeing of Australians.

q Clanka was a master mariner; a great friend with a love for the sea and his family By Len GOUGH 26/3/2024. HN VETS Stableford

As expected, Clanka took the Shamrock to sea in defiance of the law, however he had to dump his catch at sea when he received a tip that the board’s representatives were waiting to arrest him if he brought any fish into port.

It seemed to him that he was being “bankrupted by bureaucracy” and being starved out of the industry.

Not one to give in easily, the problem was confronted head on and reached a peak when MSB attempted to board the Shamrock by throwing grappling hooks onto the deck.

Clanka watched them and then put the boat in gear and took off, dragging the Maritime vessel along behind until they were finally cut free.

Finally in October 1972, following extreme media pressure and intervention by MSB President of the Board, Mr W. H. Brotherson,

Hawks Nest Vets

1st Dave Thompson 22

2nd John Reynolds 20

3rd Keith Glanville 18c/b

4th Colin Clinch 18c/b

Balls down to 14c/b

Back Nine. Nett Scores

1st Barry Collins 20

2nd Chris Barrett 19

Front Nine. Nett Scores

it was reported that Clanka had received a Certificate of Survey enabling him to work his boat.

“Since there is some doubt over the matter, the Board has decided that Mr McLean’s boat should be surveyed under the old code.”

It was back to business, and it was within a fortnight that Clanka towed the ‘Anna-E’ off Shoal Bay beach after the trawler had been washed ashore during a fierce storm.

It was Clanka again who ferried an aeroplane back to Nelson Bay.

The plane had landed on Broughton Island and overshot the ‘runway’ which was roughly marked out among the rugged, swampy terrain.

The rabbit and mutton bird burrows that honeycombed the island didn’t make things any easier.

Balls down to 12c/b

Nearest to Pin

3rd Keith Glanville (Birdie)

5th Graeme Bramley

10th Denis Casey

16th Ross Weightman (Birdie)

3rd Gary Wills 16c/b

4th Gregory Blyton 16c/b

The Write Direction

By John BLACKBOURN

Amazed at America

THOSE of us with an interest in politics continue to be amazed by the American political system.

Politically similar to Australia and England in that two main groups compete in order to achieve government, the American system of non-compulsory voting works very differently to elsewhere.

In Australia we have the Liberal and National parties on the right and the Australian Labor Party on the left.

In England it is the Conservative Party on the right and the Labour Party on the left, striving for ascendancy.

In the USA we have the conservative Republican Party pitted against the leftof-centre Democratic Party.

This is where the similarity ends, as in both Australia and the UK there are a

number of minor parties and independents which make an impact at election time.

Because the USA is the world’s economic leader, it is vitally important to understand what drives their political system.

This allows us to work alongside them politically, and in commercial and defence settings.

For the first time in anyone’s memory the upcoming presidential election is being contested by two candidates who are seemingly universally disliked by most voters.

Both are older-aged contenders with private issues which raise concern about their suitability to manage the world’s leading economy.

In a break from the norm, the African American and Hispanic communities seem well represented in Trump's Republican supporter base.

Traditionally, these normally socioeconomically disadvantaged groups could be expected to favour the Democratic or left side of the political spectrum.

Indeed, Biden’s election platform aims to support the disadvantaged members of society with financial and economic policies.

In typically American fashion, many people attempting to justify what is going on have come up with well thought out conspiracy theories.

Dear Jasminda

My brother came over the other night and asked for a beer. My wife, the previous night, had finished off the last one, meaning we had none left. He basically turned around and walked out of the door. How should I approach this topic with him?

Roger M

Dear Roger,

THERE is more to unpack in this problem than a hitchhiker's backpack, and, like that backpack, some tucked-away elements that shouldn't see the light of day.

It starts off simply enough, with your brother coming over for a beer. Then I feel your message takes on an accusatory tone when you reveal that your wife downed the last one. Not content to leave it at that, you add, with Sherlock-esque observational skills, 'meaning we had none left'.

I'm suspicious that your real problem is

This year we seem to have two groupings that are unlikely to win a seat but are out there financially supporting nonparty candidates, in similar fashion to how a group of so-called Teals were funded in Australia’s last Federal Election.

One of these camps is ‘No Labels’, while another is the ‘Third Way’ group.

They both seem to be comfortably funded but basically ineffective politically.

Whilst the main players are presently involved in selecting their Vice Presidential running mate, the wild theories continue to build.

One independent presidential candidate, Robert F Kennedy (RFK) Jr, is reportedly looking at selecting well-known footballer Aaron Rodgers as his running mate.

I can’t imagine how appointing an exfootballer to a similar position would be received in Australian political circles.

RFK, as the name suggests, comes from an impressive political dynasty, and is the nephew of assassinated president John F Kennedy.

While a huge range of theories continue

Superfish Saxon grabs gold at State CIS Swim titles

By Chris KARAS

SAXON Hayes has continued his recordbreaking feats in the swimming pool.

The versatile eleven year old underlined his potential after claiming five medals at the recent NSW Combined Independent Schools Primary Swimming Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.

Hayes clinched two gold medals in the 50m butterfly and 50m breaststroke finals – smashing the 11yrs 50m butterfly record and improving his personal best

time by 0.8 seconds.

It was an outstanding achievement by the Stroud Seals swimmer based at Lakeside Aquatic Centre in Raymond Terrace, who also brought home silver medals in the 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke and 100m freestyle events.

Saxon also improved his 50m freestyle PB by 0.9 seconds, a just reward for the months of hard toil with Head Coach Mike Abel at the Lakeside swimming complex.

The promising schoolboy has now qualified to compete at the NSW Primary Schools

Sports Association State Swimming Championships at SOPAC on April 11 and 12.

An elated Abel told News Of The Area that young Hayes’ medal-winning feats at elite level were “an amazing achievement".

“Saxon is a dedicated and talented swimmer and one of the Seals’ most hardest working squad members,” quipped the respected mentor.

“He deserves all the success that comes his way and if he continues to improve and break records then he is on the radar of qualifying for nationals,”

q Record-breaking swimmer Saxon Hayes claimed five medals at the recent NSW Combined Independent Primary Schools Swimming Championships.

Abel added.

“The Stroud Seals squad push and encourage each other in our extensive training program and now exciting prospects like Saxon have raised the bar,” said Mike.

with your wife polishing off the last beer, exposing you to the judgement that comes with a poorly-stocked beer fridge. One beer? I mean, what's going to happen when we have a zombie apocalypse, Roger? My understanding (I don't drink beer, but I'm surrounded by beer drinkers) is that there should be at least six beers in the door of the main fridge, a case of Coopers (or similar) in the shed beer fridge, another case in the pantry, beer plumbed into the water dispenser, and at least 12 boutique beers on hand for more discerning guests. How you let your stocks get so low that your wife managed to drink the last one is beyond me. It's definitely outside the realms of Australian etiquette. You should be ashamed of yourself.

I think this is the real reason your brother walked out. I present exhibit A, sung by Slim Dusty: There is nothing so morbid, lonesome or drear / Than to stand at the bar in a pub with no beer. Your brother just couldn't make sense of the nobeer situation and didn't have it in him, on a weeknight, to get you some help. I reckon he was muttering to himself when he walked down your drive, 'What's become of Roger? Where did it all go so wrong?'.

Perhaps consider a subscription or a home brew kit to avoid this in the future.

to circle, betting people might be better rewarded by sticking with Melbourne Cup picks on the same day, being that first Tuesday in November.

Another group that politicians need to consider ahead of the election are the 7.5 million Jewish people who must be getting nervous at the USA’s inability to continue to fund and supply arms to Israel in its present war with Hamas.

Young voters meanwhile are said to be worried about losing TikTok if it is banned; let’s see if they can be bothered to vote.

From my perspective I think that America lost a brilliant candidate for President when they failed to elect Ross Perot in 1992.

I think this coming USA Presidential election may well result in the American population's greatest potential loss of face and purpose in our lifetime.

It is a high-risk event where whoever wins is unlikely to advance the profile of the USA in our world.

Hawks Nest Darts

By MICHELLE COLE

DART results from 28th March

Ladies highest score was Marion Smith with 120 and men’s highest score was John Edwards with 100.

Darts on every Thursday night .All welcome .

Winners of Darts Marion Smith and John Edwards and runner ups Graeme Bramley and Luke Verdon.

q Darts Marion Smith and John Edwards and runner ups Graeme Bramley and Luke Verdon.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

READING by Lynne Miles: Proverbs 15: 3"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, watching the evil and the good." (Over the next five weeks we will look at some evils then in May/June we will look at the good.)

Myall Masters Awards

By Thomas O’KEEFE

MYALL Masters Swimming Club members glammed up for their annual Presentation Night, held at Tillerman’s, Tea Gardens, on Wednesday 27 March, where three major awards were presented, followed by an exquisite celebratory spread.

‘Most Improved’ went to Shane O’Connor, presented by Club Captain Steve Rees, who said, “Shane has participated enthusiastically in training, demonstrated major improvement in his fitness and technique, and held a positive attitude towards all.”

Shane has only missed one swimming training

By Dianne BOWES

AUTUMN is definitely in the air at last, with the promise of cooler days ahead. Saturday’s Stableford round was played in cloudy but comfortable conditions with 39 ladies teeing off. Today’s good field included Louise, a visitor from Maclean GC, and again the competition was very close. Only 4 shots separated the first 15 players on the leaderboard, with many ladies scoring well.

Results for Saturday

March 23rd 2024

A Grade: 1st Annie Benton on 35 C/B; 2nd Deb Matheson

35 C/B, 3rd Carolyn Affleck

35

B Grade: 1st Janet Moore

35 (best of the day); 2nd Trish Sattler 33; 3rd Angela Clipperton 32C/B

Prize Winners (34-31): Mandy Dickson, Kay Kim, Sue Kovacs, Maxine Mitchell, Julie Williams, Tanya Sinclair, Trish Collins, Carol Maher,

session, understandably due to his daughter’s wedding.

‘Swimmer of the Year’ was Jo Collins, presented by Club Head Coach Sharon Taylor, who commented, “Jo has a high level of perseverance and commitment, and a superior ability in swimming, which has progressed due to her work ethic throughout the seasons.”

“Jo has developed into a very graceful swimmer, who has a wonderful quality and presence, commitment to the Club and her fellow swimmers, and is a joy to watch in the water.”

‘Club Member of the Year’ went to Steve Rees, presented by Vice President Linda

Stubbs, who said, “Steve has been Captain for numerous years, a Committee member for 5 years, he inspires by example, he is the frontrunner for organising the annual swimming carnival, and has continued to contribute to the Club with involvement in various aspects, including coaching, committee administrative roles, and organisation in general.”

“Steve was the standout for ‘Club Member of the Year’, as he takes everything in his stride, an inspiring club Captain who encourages and motivates, takes on leadership duties with no fuss,” Linda concluded.

Sue Brownrigg. NTP (10th hole): Carolyn Affleck Special mention to Janet Moore, who chipped in from 64 metres on the 15th hole.

Janet is an ace putter from off the greens, but today she was in the rough and decided just to go with the 7 iron to flick the ball onto the green. The move paid off and the ball rolled in, scoring her 4 points

on the way to a great win. Congratulations Janet, and to all our winners today.

Tuesday morning was cool and pleasant, and led to a fantastic turn out. 64 ladies teed off, including Kristine from South West Rocks GC who was visiting family in the area. There were some excellent scores carded today across all three grades, demonstrating the depth of

Three new Life Members were also inaugurated on the night: Kerry Patterson, John Estens and Linda Stubbs, each for their outstanding and long-time services to the Masters.

Leon Bobako, existing Life Member and Myall Masters President, said, “The Myall Masters Swim Carnival in February welcomed 155 competitors, the most to attend a local meet, and the success of such events is due to the ongoing work of the Club.”

“Members have been encouraged to get official qualifications, and numerous members are now qualified as coaches, while nonswimming members take on positions to the benefit of the club and all members.”

Bulahdelah Golf Club News Hawks Nest Ladies Golf

By Thora-Lou SMITH

THE Ladies' Open Day was on Thursday 21st March, so the Vets kindly played on Wednesday 20th, and the winner was Steve South with 37pts from Lou Smith with 34pts and Rod Norberry with 32pts. NTPs were Rick Winter and Rod Norberry. Visitor Graham Cameron from Narrabri won the Jackpot.

Thankfully, Thursday March 21st was a beautiful day after a few days of unsettled weather. 52 ladies from 8 Clubs enjoyed our magnificent course, and all had a great day in spite of the not-so-great golf! A Grade (0 – 22) winner was Barbie Gordon (Bulah) with 33pts from Debra Matheson (HNGC) with 30pts and Lou Smith (Bulah) with 28pts. Dale Rabett (Gloucester)

had the best Scratch score (18pts). B Grade (23 – 33) winner was Genevieve Dobbs (Taree) with 29pts from Gai Falla (Gloucester) with 28pts and Deb Gardiner (HNGC) with 27pts. C Grade (34+) winner was Heather Aitken (Bulah) with 35pts from Karen Serhan (HNGC) with 31pts from Julie Freeland (HNGC) with 30pts on a c/b from Ros Bourke (Taree). Many of the ladies had never played at Bulahdelah before, and all were very complimentary about the course, the welcome and the food! Thanks to all who made the day a great success.

A Stableford was played on Saturday March 23rd, and the A Grade (0 – 17) winner was W.Gregory with 35pts from Sam Moss with 34pts. B Grade (18+) winner was Brad Gleeson with 37pts from Terry Griffis with 33pts.

The ladies' winner was Terry Stellema with 31pts on a c/b from Barbie Gordon. NTPs were David Schlenert, Steve Sharp, Craig Littlechild, T.Sharp, Steve South and Terry Stellema. Long drivers were W.Gregory, Allan Benson, Brad Gleeson and Bernie Newton and Terry Griffis grabbed the Jackpot.

Wednesday March 27th was a beautiful day for golf and 8 ladies contested the Monthly Mug. The winner was Barbie Gordon with a tidy 70nett from Meg South with 71nett on a c/b from Colleen Richards. Barbie also won the monthly putting comp with 29putts and Meg got the 8th NTP. Bernie Newton got the $26 jackpot with a great shot on the 17th.

The Vets played a Stableford on Thursday 28th and the winner was Garry Willadsen with 37pts on a

q Awardees (L-R) Shane O’Connor (Most Improved), Jo Collins (Swimmer of the Year), Steve Rees (Club Member Award).

The Presentations were followed by a two-course entree and main, with a fabulous celebratory sponge-

cake to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Club –November, which is coming up in November this year.

talent in the ladies playing group at Hawks Nest. Results for Tuesday 26th March 2024

A Grade: 1st Helen Haynes on 39; 2nd Ann Syme 37; 3rd Jo Buttrey 36 C/B

B Grade: 1st Sue Forde 37; 2nd Jo Collins 36; 3rd Carol Wiggins 35

C Grade: 1st Tanya Sinclair 42 (best of the day); 2nd Robyn Wade 38; 3rd Janet Moore 34 Prize Winners (36C/B31 C/B): Caroline Affleck, Kay Kim, Annie Benton, Ann Morris, Judy Benson, Evelyn Potts, Marlene Stokes, Trish Sattler, Deb Matheson, Kathy Griffiths, Karen Serhan, Deb Gardner, Fran Henderson and Liz Ross.

NTP 16th hole: A Grade Evelyn Potts; C Grade Sharon Barwick

Among the great plays today were Jo Collins on the 9th hole, with a 50 metre chip in for a birdie 3, scoring 5 points! Jo might be

c/b from Terry Crowther. 3rd was Craig Littlechild with 35 pts. NTPs were Wayne Green and Matt Host while Michael Donnelly won the jackpot. Easter Saturday saw 36 players enjoying the course. Stewart McNaughton was the A Grade winner with 37pts from Geoff Harvey with 35pts. B Grade winner was Al Jobson with 41pts from D.Lewis with 37pts. C Grade winner was Mick Gardiner with 33pts from Rick Winter with 29pts. Ladies' winner was Karryn Bartlett with 32pts from Alison Benson with 27pts. NTPs were Darrell Harvey and Terry Griffis and the long drivers were Darrell Harvey, Allan Benson, Steve Sharp and Bernie Newton. Allan also grabbed the Jackpot. The March Monthly Mug Stroke event will be played next Saturday.

developing nerves of steel after her baptism of fire playing pennants at Pacific Dunes recently, so well done Jo. Also carding an excellent round with 42 Stableford points was Tanya Sinclair, whose consistent good form sees her handicap reduced again. Well done, Tanya.

Tuesday Lady Vets 9 Hole Event (Front 9)

1st Ann Browning; 2nd Pam Kelly; 3rd Di Vercoe Pennants Update

Our ladies are acquitting themselves well in the early matches of pennants competition, with the Division 2 team having 2 wins to lead the point score. The Bronze team has had 1 win and 1 loss, and are looking to build on this solid result when pennants resume on April 8th.

Hawks Nest Ladies on Tour

As well as through our regular competitions, another great way for ladies to enjoy the more social aspects of golf is to take part in the Open Days run by neighbouring

clubs. In 2023 a few groups played in the Dungog and Gloucester Ladies Open Days, followed by a social round at Wingham. Everyone enjoys these events, played in the spirit of good fun, golf and friendship. It’s always interesting to play different courses, and to catch up with ladies who we often see at our own events at Hawks Nest. Thanks to Julie Freeland for organising the club bus to travel to these venues, a role now being shared among participants.

The touring tradition continues to gather strength this year, with players attending the Bulahdelah Open Day as well as a 2 day social jaunt to Toukley in March. Planning is under way for a return to Dungog and Gloucester later in the year, and all Hawks Nest women golfers are welcome to join in the fun. Open Days are advertised at weekly presentations, and on the notice board in the ladies’ locker room.

q Barbie, Genevieve and Heather.

q Hawks Nest Ladies on tour to Buledelah.

THEATRE organ with full pedal board, works well, free to good home 0432 058 522

For Sale

2 cream leather two seater lounges. $500 each or both for $900 exc cond. 0400 955 778

3 Windsurfer boards and fins, 85 litres. 2.4m long $99. Ring 0419 932 992

3 OROTON evening purses, collectables from the 1970s, converts from should strap to clutch beautiful cond. Like new Best offers. 49817523

For Sale

BIBLE road scooter swivel seat, easily dismantled for vehicle transport. Never used $1,200. Any trials welcomed. Ph Lee 0435 770 067 e040424

BOOKS for sale - 16 x Bryce Courtenay from $1 - $2 each, 3 x Colleen McCullough $1 - $2 each, 2 x Wilbur Smith $2 each. 0404969257 F290224

CANVAS bag for shopping trolley. $14 4982 8628

CHAISE Lounge Timber, painted white Era 1890s. $100 0418 950 995 F071223

12VOLT 2 tone jack

12 volt wheel brace Twin 100mm saw Ph: 4982 3648

6 x new in package single bed mattress protectors. 2 x new out of package, never used single bed fitted sheets $75 or $12 each. 0408 431 488

ANTIQUE sewing machine, Singer 306K model. Good working order, manual & all attachments inc. $75 0419 970 527

Free

FREE WARDROBE hanging spaces and drawers 0428 943 812 F070923

GAS-LIFT queen size bed with mattress Exc cond. Lots of storage underneath. Ph 0421 721 832

JOB OPPORTUNITY

HAWKS NEST GOLF CLUB

Hawks Nest Golf Club is currently seeking a casual Administration Assistant to join our administration team. It is envisaged this position would entail a minimum of 15 hours per week with extra hours for holiday relief, weekend shifts, membership time and as required. Immediate start available and preferred.

BABY carrier, BabyBjorn new price is over $300 selling for $90 ono. Ph 0412 783 707 F140324

BEAM hanging racks pair, powder coated steel grey and rubber Suits use with bicycles or ladders. Never used $50. 0408 431 488

This role requires you to be the face of our Club, being dedicated to exceptional customer service. We are seeking a friendly person with a positive attitude, excellent communication skills, computer savvy and preferably previous experience in an administration environment. Flexibility in hours and days is essential due to the club operating 7 days.

Tasks and responsibilities of this position include, but not limited to: meeting and greeting members and guests, phone attendance, email correspondence, filing and database management and maintenance, cash handling and banking, counting and reconciliation of daily takings including eftpos, ATM and CRT transactions as well as a supporting role in the administration of all golf operations.

An understanding of the game of golf or golf administration would be an advantage but is not essential.

For more information or to express interest please contact reception@hawksnestgolfclub.com.au or call 02 4997 0145.

CHEFS uniforms, 2 jackets (small), 4 trousers (3 medium, 1 small) 1 cap. $70 for the lot. Ph 0412 783 707

CHEST of drawers

Antique, 3 full length drawers and 2 half length drawers. 160cm x 55cm x 120cm H. $120 0418 950 995

CHEST of drawers large, wooden, 104cm H x 105cm W. Painted off white, VGC. $30. 0403 177 795

EXTENSION Cord 25 metres 10 Amps $25 4919 8277 Tea Gardens

FISH fern for pond or aquarium. 0466 880 639

FRIDGE, great second fridge, GC. $45 or offer 49979313 F080224

FRIDGE/FREEZER in good working cond Hisense, 350L $150 Photos available. Hawks Nest. 0419 444 119

FULL length Driza-Bone wet weather coat. $90 0419 985 601

GO Fit Vibration Platform $100 ono. Must sell 0417 664 032 F010224

LADIES Bike 27” New tires and tubes Front basket and back carrier. Geared. $100 0404 292 942

LARGE Invacare Meteor mobility scooter imacculate condition front basket, rear bag weather shade hood can deliver. $2,300 0418 430 643

MENS valet chair gold vinyl covered seat, hanging back for coats, shirts etc and a tray for the wallet and valuables exc cond. $70 49817523

MICROWAVE, new small $100. 0493777707 F150224

MOBILITY white raised toilet seat on legs, arm rests and brand new bowl. Stands over exiting toilet, light easy pickup and replace no installation req. Exc cond. $60. 4981 7523

MUSIC 50’s - 90’s CDs and vinyl 45’s various compilations plus single artists. 02 4966 5000

Boats

PIANOLA rolls cabinet

timber with leadlight glass door, elock, 70cm x 46cm x 105cm high $100. 0418 950 995 F210324

COFFEE/Lamp table Walnut stained good cond. Top has glass inset 60cm x 60cm H 44cm Magazine shelf at bottom $50. 0430 092 825

COLLECTION of assorted windsurfing gear. Extensions, bases vest, fins etc. $99. Ring 0419 932 992

CURLING iron $10 0493 777 707

DRESS, New, Short Sleeve, Golden Blue

HAIR dryer with diffuser new, worth $170, will sell for $15. 0493 777 707

HIGH lift chair, can lift you fully up, 6 months old. Ph Lee 0435 770 067

HOLDEN Astra car rim and tire tubeless steel belted radial. Size 205 / 55R16 $70 ono. Ph 4981 7523

HOLDEN racing team shirt from early 2000’s Red with insignias of Dunlop, Holden and Coca Cola. Large. $10 4981 7523.

NEW Mahogany side tables. $100each 0493 777 707

RISSOTTO and rice maker, 10 cup. $169 on special, brand new. $130 0427 307 580 e180424

ROCKING chair

antique 1880’s. $125 0418 950 995

RYOBI RSCD750 Clean and Dirty Submersible Pump with automatic float switch. As new. $75 Ph 0412 081 979 f301123

SCOTTY’S Cinema gift cards $75. Buy for $60, expire June 25. 0418 845 358 F220224

SINGLE base mattress and white bedhead clean, GC with single clean quality used linen $100. 0408 431 488 F080224

TRAVELSCOOT Folding Mobility Scooter. As new $2,850. 0432 210 234

VW body parts 3 fan housing engines, plus porsche 356B. 0431 751 651

WALL mirror, 75cm x 60cm, wood surround $10. 4997 9313

WHEELCHAIR Breezy Basix, Transit. Exc. Cons $100. 0432 210 234

NISSAN GQ Parts:

New hub seals, oil and water pump, and more. Ph 4982 8689 F231123

NURSES shoes size 8 ladies, worn once $70ono 0413 401 589

WINE rack, holds 72 bottles, from Howards Storage, mahogany. On special for $489, sell for $325. New. 0427307580 e180424

WOMENS vanity bedroom chair, gold velveteen cover with back and round seat with a pleated skirt on wheels, exc cond. $100 49817523

12FT runabout (AAU544N) and trailer (H40343), 9.8 Tohatsu outboard, 12 months rego. $1,500 ono 0428 549 282

STACER Seaway 435 boat, IBP617N, Honda 40hp 4 stroke motor, low hours, gal trailer R43321 Bimini boat cover, life jackets plus extras. Exc cond. $13,000 ono. Ph 0428 865 938

Motors YACHT 27” traditional GRP 1994 10 hp diesel Beautiful fit out. Separate head. Moored LTP Port Stephens. $18,000. Ph 0427 419 246 Photos etc

HYUNDAI Excel, 2005 GC, regularly serviced, 6 months rego. DYH06P $4,000.

SUBARU Outback

Touring wagon, 2011 2.5L auto, AWD, 155km rego till Feb 2025, log book. DZD22L. $8,500 0448 253 290

1999 Goldstream Sapphire 2001 series. 5m with awning and sides, double bed, sofa gas/elect fridge, stovetop microwave, TV, always garaged with lots of extras. M47529. $17,000 ono. 0488 256 253

AVAN Aliner 3 berth 850kg tare, 2012, 12 months rego, W97212 Extras. $22,000 ono Karuah. 0414 891 285 e190424

JAYCO Journey single axel, single beds shower/toilet, microwave auto awning, review camera, all as new 16.5 ft, 15 months old TL85A1. $62,500. Ph Les 0419 194 188

MILLARD Horizon 2001. Rollout awning 12 months rego. Annex N65160. $10,000 Ph 0438 020 040

DRIZA-BONE coat, XL $200. 0418 950 995

HUSQVARNA self propelled lawn mower VGC, mulcher catcher petrol edger GC $300 for both units. 0427 980 079

OFFICE chair, JarvfJallet as new. $100. Ph 0418 191 818 F210324

OUTDOOR setting powder coated, as new 15 months old, 1 table with 3 chairs, fawn colour. Paid $1,400, sell for $750 ono. Call Raymond 0423 640 489 e180424

WORLD book encyclopedias, full set Offer. 49979313

MILLARD Horizon 2003 19ft dual axel light weight. Tare 1544. GVM 1944. 2 x 200 solar panels, anderson plug 3 way fridge, queen bed, shower/toilet, full 12 months rego, roll out awning. Non smokers Selling due to update $27,950. Q25752 0418 430 643

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY MURDER IN PROVENCE

ABC, 7.30pm

Like a mimosa among a shout of whiskeys, this amiable crime comedy is light and airy with a nose for fun. It’s the antithesis to crime shows that concentrate on the dark and disturbing side of murder – if you’re fond of distractions such as Death in Paradise, this beautifully polished crime caper will tickle your fancy. The sublime French terrain and buildings set the tone, with sun and whimsy the overarching focus as chief magistrate Antoine Verlaque (Endeavour’s Roger Allam) and his glamorous criminal psychologist lover Marine Bonnet (Father Brown’s Nancy Carroll, pictured with Allam) play detective in the small town of Aix-en-Provence.

SUNDAY

VERA

ABC, 8.30pm

The beauty of this long-running detective series –returning for its 13th season tonight – lies not just in the high-end, gorgeous Northumberland scenery cultivated with medieval churches and windswept cliffs overlooking the moody coastline.

It’s the titular detective (Brenda Blethyn, pictured), grumbling and bluntly speaking her mind, who is categorically enchanting. These three new episodes feature an admirably unguessable whodunnit involving a hit and run in a serene country lane. The return of Joe Ashworth (David Leon), who worked with Vera over a decade ago, unsettles the power dynamic and irks our otherwise unflappable, lovably unkempt lawwoman.

TUESDAY

CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA TRIOLI

ABC, 9pm

Feed into the artistic spirit with this inspired new series fronted by the warm and inquisitive Virginia Trioli. The two-time Walkley Awardwinning journo explores the seed of artists’ creative force in this six-part series that traverses acting, performing, writing and visual arts. The exciting line-up of visionaries includes Samson & Delilah director Warwick Thornton, stage and screen star Marta Dusseldorp, comedian and Hard Quiz host Tom Gleeson, and boundary-pushing artist Patricia Piccinini. In tonight’s enchanting premiere, celebrated writer Trent Dalton (pictured with Trioli), whose book Boy Swallows Universe is now a hit miniseries on Netflix, shares how creativity saved his life.

Pacific Sports Show. (R)

Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness.

1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 6.00

Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

Ancient Egypt By Train. (R) 8.30 Michael Palin: Into Iraq. (PG, R) 9.25 Secrets Of The Lost Liners. (PGa, R) 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 A French Case. (Malv)

11.45 Max Anger: With One Eye Open. (Malv, R)

3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R)

MOVIE: The Bone Collector. (1999, Mlv, R) After a murder leaves detectives baffled, they call on the aid of a paralysed forensic expert to help solve the case. He then enlists a quick-thinking policewoman to be his eyes and ears on the ground. Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah.

The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.

The Arrangement. (Mav, R)

Tea Gardens Women's Bowling Club SPORT

By Lynda RICHARDS

TUESDAY 26th March: Social

bowls played 2 games of 3 bowls Triples and a game of four bowls Pairs all games 18 ends. Precy Swaddling, Jan Coomer and Bette Saillard had a close game against Loretta Baker, Sheril Johnson and Dawn Jones 0n the 12th end the score was 10 all, Bette's team scored a 5 on the next end giving them a lead of 5 shots now. Dawn's team did not let this deter them, ultimately just losing by 2 shots 16 v 14. Kathie Rimmer,

Dawn May and Sandra Leisemann started strongly by the 11th end they held a 8 point lead, (!3 v 5) v Lynda Richards, Kris MacDonald and Dot Dallas the end result here was a win for Sandra's ladies 15 v 14. Ingrid Luck and Jean Glover led from start to finish

defeating Carolyn Fredericks and Jeanette Emmett 16 v 11. The winners on the day were Ingrid and Jean. Thursday 28th March: No bowls played due to rain. Coming events: Our flag winning Grade 3 Pennant Team will be competing in the

Regional Pennant Competition to be held at Raymond Terrace Bowling Club. On the morning of Monday 8th April they will bowl against a team from the Upper Hunter, Scone and on then another morning game on Tuesday 9th April against Hunter River, East Cessnock.

On both days trial ends commence 0910 and play will start 0930. Presentation of medallions will take place at the completion of Tuesday's games. Spectators are welcome. Thursday 11th April Round 1 of the Club Championship Triples, there will be social bowls as usual during the course of this Competition.

SATURDAY, April 6

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.25 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) 1.25 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Final, Mal, R) 2.20 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 2.50 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.40 Brian Cox’s Adventures In Space And Time. (R) 4.30 Better Date Than Never. (PG, R) 5.00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: Patient Zero – Richard Scolyer. (R)

6.30 Back Roads: Braidwood, NSW. (PG, R) Presented by Heather Ewart.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Murder In Provence. (Mav) Part 1 of 3.

9.00 Miniseries: The Suspect. (Mal) Part 1 of 5. A clinical psychologist is asked to assist in the investigation of the murder of a young woman.

9.50 House Of Gods. (Ma, R) Sheikh Mohammad departs for Mecca.

10.50 Happy Valley. (Malv, R)

11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.50 My Unique B&B. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Motorcycle Racing. FIM Superbike World C’ship. Round 2. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Of Flanders. Men’s race. H’lights. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Of Flanders. Women’s race. H’lights. 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R) 5.35 A Cold War Of Spies.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ireland’s Wild Islands. (PGa)

8.30 New Zealand From A Train. (R)

9.25 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes. (PGaln, R)

10.20 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R)

11.10 Between Two Worlds. (MA15+asv)

12.05 Miniseries: True Colours. (Malv, R)

1.59 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)

3.00 Looking For Life On Mars. (R)

4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30

ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG)

12.00 Horse Racing. The Star Championships Day 1 and Caulfield Race Day.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Biosecurity stop a woman entering the country.

7.30 MOVIE: Raising Helen. (2004, PGal, R) A woman cares for her late sister’s children. Kate Hudson, Abigail Breslin.

10.00 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R)

A woman becomes a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss.

12.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Mystic. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today

Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Great Australian

Detour. (R) 12.30 Destination WA. (PG, R)

1.00 Ageless. (PGa) 1.30 Living On The Coast.

2.00 The Pet Rescuers. (PGm) 2.30 David

Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PGa, R) 3.30

Renovate

6.00 To Be Advised.

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7.00 The Dog House. (PGa) Two brothers are wowed by a pure husky.

8.00 Ambulance UK. (Return, Ma)

In the first of two strike days, North West Ambulance Service loses over a third of its workforce.

10.30 So Help Me Todd. (PGv, R)

Todd stumbles into a case Margaret agreed to co-counsel with Gus.

11.30 FBI: International. (Mv, R)

A lawyer is killed in a car bombing.

1.00 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+v, R)

The team investigates a murder spree.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 7.40 A Hero. (2021, PG, Farsi) 10.00 The Internship. (2013,

SUNDAY, April 7

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Dream Gardens. (R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.30 Cook And The Chef. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.40 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Compass: Goodbye My Dog. (PG) Follows families’ final days with their dogs.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, PG) A calypso singer’s husband is murdered.

8.30 Vera. (Ma) Part 1 of 3. DCI Vera Stanhope investigates after a young man is found dead following a collision with a car.

10.05 Happy Valley. (Malv, R) Tommy’s big day approaches.

11.05 Miniseries: The Suspect. (Mal, R) Part 1 of 5. 3.10 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Doctor At The Door. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Vintage Voltage. (PG) 10.50 My Unique B&B. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 12.55 Trampolining. (R) 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. ProMX Australian C’ship. Round 2. 4.00 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic World Challenge Cup. H’lights. 5.35 A Cold War Of Spies. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Hunt For Cleopatra’s Missing Tomb. (PGa)

8.20 Treasures Of The Mediterranean Islands. (PGs, R)

9.15 Incas: The New Story. (Mad, R)

10.55 Underwater Stonehenge. (PG, R)

11.50 Ancient Metropolis. (Mav, R)

2.45 Vaccine: The Inside Story. (Ma, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour

Scandinavia Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

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6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Border Security: Int. (PG, R) 12.30 Football. AFL. Round 4. Gold Coast Suns v GWS Giants.

3.30 Better Homes. (R) 4.30 Border Security. (PG, R)

5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The 1% Club. (PGl)

8.05 Carl Barron: Skating Rink For Flies. (Ml) Comedy performance by Carl Barron.

10.05 Code 1: The Bourke Street Mall Tragedy. (Mav, R)

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6.00

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6.30 The Sunday Project. Panellists dissect, digest and reconstitute the daily news, events and hottest topics.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities share the personal stories that connect them to the charities they are playing for.

9.00 FBI. (Return, Mv) When a bus explosion kills several innocent people, the FBI team jumps into action to take down the terrorist organisation responsible. Scola tries to balance fatherhood with the job.

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

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

9GO! (83)

MONDAY, April 8

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.55 Vera. (Ma, R) 2.25 Back Roads. (PG, R) 2.55 Old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds. (R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.45 Grand Designs. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Earth’s Sacred Wonders. (PGa, R) 11.30 Mountain Vets.

(PG) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.10 Ancient Egypt’s Darkest Hour. (PGa, R) 3.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R)

5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

TUESDAY, April 9

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 The Pacific. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 2.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.25 Back Roads. (PGa, R) 2.55 Old People’s Home For Teenagers. (R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Christian. (Malv)

11.50 My Brilliant Friend. (Mlv, R)

2.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

3.50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl)

A group of tradies goes ballistic.

8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+v, R) A man seeks revenge after his friend is murdered. Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 The Clown And The Candyman. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 Grand Crew. (Return, PGadls)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

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6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.15 Earth’s Sacred Wonders. (PG, R) 11.25 Mountain Vets. (PG)

12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Ancient Egypt’s Darkest Hour. (PGa, R) 3.00 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (PG, R)

8.30 Insight.

6.00

Tea Gardens Men’s Bowling Club News SPORT

By John SLATER

BOWLING activities this week were sponsored by Excel Financial Services.

20 March

A good move by the Bowls coordinator as the rain came down later in the day.

The overall winners

Thirty-nine players turned out for the usual Wednesday Triples competition with play on both the grass and synthetic greens for one game of 18 ends as the weather looked threatening.

decided by the Highest winning margin were Geoff Page, Phil Thrift, and Bill Thrift with a margin of 21.

A random draw was done by the bar staff of the other 11 cards and Graham Uff, Peter Campbell and Hylton Newman were the lucky winners.

The Graden Eatery voucher was won by Mick Sheridan. Thanks to the Garden Eatery for sponsoring this voucher.

In other news.

Wednesday Pennants has seen Division 4 still in the competition after only one loss with a tough away game against Raymond Terrace next Wednesday.

Saturday Pennants Grade 5 remain undefeated and are currently top of the table on the run home with another 5 sectional games to play.

Division 3 is just powering away and after 5 rounds they remain undefeated and are top of the ladder. After 5 rounds of the open

Grade 6 are in second position, having recorded just one loss and trailed East Maitland by just two points on the competition ladder. Grade 7 have recorded 3 losses as they start the second half of the draw

WEDNESDAY, April 10

TV (2)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.45 Gardening Australia: My Garden Path. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.25 Back Roads. (R) 2.55 Old People’s Home For Teenagers. (PG, R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

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6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.15 Earth’s Sacred Wonders. (PGa, R) 11.25 Mountain Vets. (PGa)

12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30

Insight. (R) 3.30 Destination Flavour China

Bitesize. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10

World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (R) 5.05

Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

THURSDAY, April 11

TV (2)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Compass. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Miriam Margolyes Impossibly Australian. (Mls, R) 2.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.25 QI. (PG, R) 2.55 Old People’s Home For Teenagers. (R) 3.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.40 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

and although they have some ground to make up, they are quite capable of causing a few upsets in the run home.

IIn summary Tea Gardens is well placed to win a couple of Sections to advance to the Sectional playoffs and they have the whole of the Club behind them.

All Tea Gardens Pennant players enjoy the sponsorship of the First National Real Estate.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG)

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unbelievable Moments

Caught On Camera. (PGa) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Talking Footy.

12.00 Parenthood. (Ma, R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00

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6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 9.30 Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.25 Outta Town Adventures. 11.25

Mountain Vets. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00

Alone Australia. (Ml, R) 3.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (R) 5.05

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 IKEA: How Do They Really Do It? (Ml, R)

8.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy. (PGa)

9.20 The Vanishing Triangle. (Final, MA15+a)

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Illegals. (Malv)

11.35 Miniseries: DI Ray. (Malv, R)

3.10 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.15 Going Places. (R)

4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

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breakfast, despite the early rain.

By Thomas O'KEEFE

everyone for coming to what is the last Police and Community event of its kind in NSW.”

“The Police and Community Charity Golf Day has been running since 1988, only missing one year to COVID, making this the 35th anniversary,” Trent explained. Event organiser Steve Mount told NOTA, “We’re sold out again, twice over, and the majority of contenders are locals.”

“We get so much local support, people realise that every cent goes to the local community, none of it is lost in admin.”

“The money stays local,” he said.

“This is the longestrunning Charity Golf Day

in town, with more than $300,000 given out over the years.”

“We set ourselves a fundraising minimum goal of $20,000, to be donated to the community each year, and we work hard to achieve it with many months of organising,” Mr Mount said.

Last year’s event dispersed $10,000 for Tea Gardens Public School P&C, $2,500 for Hawks Nest Preschool, $2,500 for TGHN Boxing Club, and $5000 for the Westpac Chopper, with this year’s beneficiaries soon to be announced.

The fact that much of the raised funds have gone to schools and preschools means it also has a multiplier effect, helping the local kids get a better start in life, too.

The rain eventually cleared up, rewarding the golfers with a gentle breeze along the fairways, where they encountered special chances like string-shot

extensions on the fifth, and a ‘hole-in-one’ chance to win a car on the tenth, which jackpotted.

Special Guest Garth Allen, local born-and-raised, and currently ranked world number 52 on the WR4GD circuit, also took to the course, just before heading

out to compete across the state, and later in London.

After the 18-hole slog, all teams fell in at the Clubhouse for lunch and family fun, hoping to win from the amazing cornucopia of raffle prizes, including professional golf bags, a lawnmower, kayak, camping gear, several

bottles of wine, and even ‘stay’n’play’ vouchers to courses around the state, including Karuah Golf Course.

The day’s competition was won by Craig Shaw, Anna McHugh, Brad Patmore, Josh Slade, but the real winners, as every year, are the local community.

q Local policeman Trent Moffat personally cooked the fishburgers for