DETECTIVES have returned to Bowraville, where three children were murdered more than three decades ago, setting up in a local hall in the hope of uncovering fresh information that could provide closure.
Evelyn Greenup, 4, Clinton Speedy-Duroux, 16, and Colleen Walker-Craig, 16, went missing from Bowraville, south of Coffs Harbour in northern NSW, during a five-month period beginning in 1990.
Two of the Indigenous youths' remains were found in nearby bushland in 1991, but Colleen's body has never been found.
Her clothes were found weighed-down in the Nambucca
River and a coroner found she had most likely been murdered.
Finding her remains is a key priority of the police's latest investigative push.
Colleen's mother Muriel Craig joined the appeal for information that could bring closure on Monday.
"I know that there's people out there who know things... don't you think it's time that you told me," Ms Craig said.
"I want to know, I don't want to leave this earth, not without knowing where she is.
"I just want people who know things just to come forward, if you don't karma will get you anyway," she said.
Detectives have been appealing for community members to help at the hall in Bowraville this week, where a missing-person poster advertises the $1 million reward on offer for useful information.
The presence was an important symbol to the community that police had not given up on finding a killer, Homicide Squad commander Danny Doherty said.
"Finding Colleen's remains is absolutely critical in helping us close this painful chapter and we are hopeful there are still people out there who have information that could point us in the right direction," Det Supt Doherty said.
Returning to Bowraville showed investigators remained invested in finding answers more than 34 years after Colleen disappeared, he said.
"It's a small gesture to be here but it's an important one, because people can come and talk to us, we're trying to build trust again."
Information can also be given through Crime Stoppers and investigators would visit potential sources who could not make it to the hall, Det
- NOV
q NSW Police staff meet with community and family members in Bowraville.
case murders
Supt Doherty said.
A man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was acquitted of Clinton's murder in 1994 and of Evelyn's murder in 2006.
The government in 2018 unsuccessfully argued in the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal there was fresh and compelling evidencerelated to the disappearance
of Colleen - that justified overturning the two acquittals and launching a fresh, single trial on three murder charges.
The High Court refused to grant special leave to the NSW government to appeal the decision.
An autopsy found Evelyn
had a skull injury consistent with forceful penetration by a sharp instrument, but stopped short of declaring a definitive cause of death.
No one has been charged with Colleen's murder.
A parliamentary inquiry
cold case murders of three children in Bowraville.
into family responses to the murders in Bowraville recommended reviews of procedures and training on Aboriginal cultural awareness, as well as funding for memorials for the children in 2014.
A million-dollar reward is in place for information relating to the disappearance of each child, which extends to locating Colleen's remains.
13YARN 13 92 76
Lifeline 13 11 14
q Police say they have not given up hope of finding Colleen's killer
Caz4Cowper campaign launches ahead of election
FROM Page 1
(Caz) Heise’s “Caz4Cowper” election campaign.
Although the next Federal election can be held as late as 27 September, 2025, most pundits expect it to be much earlier.
Aunty Bea Ballangarry delivered the Welcome To Country and suggested that the traditional women’s place of Corambirra Point was an appropriate location for Ms Heise to launch her campaign.
Ms Heise was then introduced by local identity
Judith Fleming, who said that “with a grassroots campaign, with people working together, safe seats can change hands.”
Ms Fleming said that Cowper has been neglected by the National Party because it has been a safe seat.
She referred to the party’s opposition to the NBN, which has been a boon for regional
areas.
“Caz will represent us in Parliament, rather than a party’s interests,” Ms Fleming said.
Clancy Barnard, Campaign Manager for Caz4Cowper, said the focus of the campaign is simple; it’s to speak to people and find out what they need and want.
Ms Heise promised a commitment to a better future for the area.
“It’s a biodiversity hotspot that must be protected for future generations. [It] needs a representative determined to stand up for it,” she said.
Ms Heise told the crowd that as a health professional, she has watched successive governments over the years neglect health services.
She also said that affordable housing is an investment in the community‘s future but more skilled people are essential to build the houses.
Because of opposition to
Council meetings to remain fortnightly for now
By Ned COWIE
A DECISION on whether to reduce Nambucca Valley Council’s meeting schedule from bi-monthly to monthly was deferred for six months by the newly-elected group of councillors at last Thursday’s meeting.
General Manager Bede Spannagle made the recommendation to change the schedule from twice monthly evening meetings to monthly on the fourth Tuesday at 2pm, as Council currently meets more than the minimum legislated ten times per year.
“The current schedule of two meetings per month
requires additional staff resources to prepare twice the reports and agendas,” he said.
“In addition, the cost of staff overtime and dinner for two meetings per month is approximately $14,000 per year.
“The cost would be effectively halved for one meeting per month.”
His recommendation to change the meeting time and frequency met stiff opposition from several council members and some members of the public gallery.
Councillor David Jones cited concerns that the change to a daytime meeting would discourage input and attendance from community members who work and limit many occupations from considering becoming
renewable energy, she said “the costs for rooftop solar are outrageous”.
Additionally, the region had been left with poor mobile phone coverage.
She said an example of the influence of independent Federal MPs was in the electorate of Indi where the local Independent had facilitated a 50 percent increase in phone towers.
Ms Heise finished by reminding those in attendance that major party members are bound by the party.
“That’s the difference with an independent; I get up in the morning to work for you.”
councillors.
“I work, as do others here, but when we ran for council, we ran under certain parameters,” Cr Jones said.
“Historically councils met during the day and what it does is it excludes teachers, people who work in shops, people who are in nine-to-five
jobs from running for council.
“We talk about engagement with the community but 2pm on a Tuesday is not going to be conducive for community members to turn up with issues that they are worried about.”
Councillor Martin
Ballangarry also questioned why the council was considering “going backwards”.
“I think it’s about time we started listening to our people; the people who are in this gallery today,” he said.
“Why are we making a dramatic change at this late
stage?”
Council members voted to defer their decision whether to implement monthly meetings at a different time and day for a period of six months until those newly appointed to their roles can assess whether they feel the current schedule is preferred.
q Carolyn Heise (second from left) at her Federal campaign launch.
q More than 200 people attended the launch. Photo: Vanessa Edwards.
New Council sworn-in
By Ned COWIE
THE eight elected councillors and Mayor Gary Lee were publicly sworn in at the first general meeting of the Nambucca Valley Council last Thursday evening.
Although councillors have previously taken their oath or affirmation of office in the presence of Nambucca Council’s General Manager prior to the first meeting of the new council, many of the newly elected councillors expressed disappointment at the privacy and lack of ceremony of this practice.
Councillor Susan Jenvey was concerned that the seriousness of the public office and the oath which councillors are required to
make was not reflected in a private recital of oaths in front of the General Manager.
She moved that subsequent councils be required to make public oaths or affirmation of office at the first meeting of each new council.
“I think it’s a serious performative utterance and that it should be taken in public,” she said.
“Councillors have just gone through a very public competition to be elected,” she said, arguing that swearing-in deserved a ceremony demonstrating the seriousness of the office “that we worked so hard to gain.”
“It’s my understanding that we become councillors
when the electoral commission declares the results,” she said.
“For this level of government, I think it should be done properly with all the
councillors present.”
Councillor Martin Ballangarry, who has just been elected to his sixth term as a councillor, explained how significant it had been
for him to “put his hand up” and run for council on behalf of his people.
“It’s a big deal you know!” said Cr Ballangarry.
Subsequently Mayor
Serial killer claim in call for unsolved murders probe
By Luke COSTIN, AAP
SCORES of unsolved homicides in one state could be in part the work of serial killers and require an overarching special investigation, an MP says.
Some 67 women have gone missing never to be found or died in an unsolved homicide along the NSW north coast since 1977.
While police have dismissed links to a common offender, north coast resident and MP Jeremy Buckingham said there was nothing like it anywhere else in Australia.
"This is a complete anomaly," he told reporters on Tuesday.
"It is clear on any reading that we have had a serial killer operating on the north coast of NSW, or serial killers."
Some of the killings were among the most violent, most egregious imaginable, with
some women dismembered and others brutalised.
But the Legalise Cannabis Party MP suspects the women's cases were not given proper focus due to factors including being poor, Indigenous and regional-based.
He called for a special commission of inquiry into the cold cases, saying
it should be modelled on recently completed probe into unsolved suspected hate crime deaths of LGBTQI people in NSW between 1970 and 2010.
That inquiry found NSW Police had historically failed to properly investigate cases of historical gay and transgender hate crime.
"If you look at the modus
operandi of these killings, there are striking similarities," Mr Buckingham said.
"Rape, torture, murder and dismemberment - that is an incredibly uncommon crime, and to find it repeatedly across the north coast is incredibly alarming."
At least 16 of the unsolved cases are subject of rewards for information, of up to $1 million.
NSW Police have however dismissed the serial killer claims.
It said a number of investigations had looked into the disappearances of women on the north coast, including a five-year probe examining teenagers Robyn Hickie and Amanda Robinson's vanishing in 1979 and 16-year-old Gordana Kotevski's abduction in 1994.
"To this date, there is no evidence to indicate a common offender was responsible for the disappearances," a police spokesperson said.
"The matters remain
Your next local event: Friday 1 November 2024, 9am - 12pm Nambucca Waste Management Facility 711 Old Coast Road, Nambucca Heads www.cleanout.com.au
under investigation by State Crime Command's Homicide Squad Unsolved Homicide Team and the Missing Person Registry."
NSW Premier Chris Minns rejected the call for a special commission of inquiry.
"We've got incredibly committed homicide squad detectives whose business it is to investigate this information," he said.
"If the parliament decides to go down a different route, we'll respond to that, but I do have enormous faith in the professionalism and dedication of NSW Police."
Gary Lee paused the meeting while all newly elected councillors and Mayor Lee read their affirmations or oaths and were sworn in before the public gallery.
q Amanda Robinson (left) and Robyn Hickie are among women to have gone missing on the NSW north coast.
'Tiger’ veterans reunite
By Mick BIRTLES
WITH the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicides released recently, the well-being and mental health of the veteran community is very much in the spotlight.
Some
A list is published towards the back of this newspaper. You can also find the outlets by going to www.newsofthearea.com.au
Camaraderie and connection are considered among the central tenets to well-being for veterans as it is largely about mates keeping an eye on mates and sharing a common experience, understanding what each other has been through.
Last week in Nambucca Heads a group of former Infantry soldiers, all of whom served in the Vietnam war together, came from all over Australia to Nambucca Heads to experience that camaraderie and connection.
The men had all served in 2 Platoon, A Company, The Fifth Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, during an operational deployment to Vietnam in 1969-70.
“In 1999 they began to hold reunions for our platoon and I got tracked down in 2005 as following the Vietnam War I sort of disappeared into the world,” 2 Platoon veteran Doug Holmes told News Of The
Wayne Mason OAM • masonsfamily@bigpond.com
Area.
“We get together and talk about stuff that we can't really talk about with others and I find it very therapeutic.”
Like many Vietnam Veterans, Mr Holmes was insulted and even physically assaulted in the years following his time
in Vietnam by members of the public who took their frustration about this unpopular conflict out on returned servicemen.
“For many years after Vietnam I was in a very dark place mentally, however since reconnecting with these blokes back in 2005, I’m a changed person,” Mr
Holmes added. The members of 2 Platoon converged on the War Memorial Cenotaph in Nambucca Heads during their visit to hold a small service of commemoration and lay a wreath in memory of their brothers-in-arms who have passed on.
q Former members of 2 Platoon, A Company, The Fifth Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in Nambucca Heads. (L-R) Doug Holmes, Mick Fowler, Don Orr, Bruce Williams, Lance Williams, Peter Heenan, Bob Brett MC (Platoon Commander in Vietnam), Peter Drummond, Col Waldron, Brian Burton, Graeme Itstein and Jeff Dennis.
Documenting our ANZAC history
By Mick BIRTLES
IN May this year News Of The Area reported that researcher and author Trevor Lynch, the man who produced the book on servicemen and women of the Nambucca district in the First World War, was beginning work on a Second World War volume.
His well-known first work, ‘Nambucca Anzacs’, was
released in 2013.
His intent now is to publish a detailed record of all those from the district, or with links to the Nambucca Valley, who served in the nation's armed forces during World War Two.
Recently retiring from an Army career spanning over 40 years, Mr Lynch works from his home in Canberra however frequently returns to Macksville, his home town,
to conduct interviews and carry out research for the book.
Last week Mr Lynch met with executive members of the Nambucca Heads RSL subBranch who, earlier this year, had loaned him old sub-Branch membership records to assist in his research.
“The documents have been extremely valuable and, just from the Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch records alone, I have been able to identify almost 500 service personnel who served in the Second World War and have been a part of this sub-Branch,” Mr Lynch told News Of
Nature filmmaker sought
lookout for a filmmaker to highlight the natural wonders
The documentary-style film has a budget of $20,000.
“Nature's beauty surrounds us here on the Coffs Coast, but how often do we truly listen to its whispers?” a spokesperson for the NPA Coffs Coast Branch told NOTA.
“‘Whispers of Wilderness: Discovering Coffs Coast's Untold Stories’ promises to be a ten-minute film that will open our eyes to the environmental treasures in our own backyard.
“This isn't just another nature documentary; it's a love letter to our home, a celebration of our heritage, and a rallying cry for our future.
“From the lush national parks to the vibrant marine reserves, from the echoes of indigenous wisdom to the
q Trevor Lynch was in Nambucca Heads last week to return records used for research to the RSL sub-Branch.
Pictured here with Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch President Dennis Lane and Treasurer John Kent OAM.
potential of the Great Koala National Park, this film will weave together the threads that make our region unique.”
The NPA hopes the film will be a “catalyst for change”, sparking a passion for conservation in every viewer.
“It's an invitation to rediscover the wonders around us, to engage with local environmental efforts, and to become stewards of our natural heritage.”
Interested filmmakers can contact Sharon Peterson (speterson6262@gmail. com) for more details.
The Area.
“I have had similar support from the Macksville RSL subBranch and, interestingly, the numbers of WW2 members were lower as Macksville was not the preferred retirement destination in the valley due to the proximity of Nambucca Heads to beaches.”
When Mr Lynch began work on Nambucca Anzacs he was a full time uniformed member of the Australian Army and was only able to work on the book when professional and family commitments allowed.
That project took twelve years; however, now retired and in a position to be able to dedicate more time to the next
volume, Mr Lynch is hopeful of being able to complete this body of work in approximately five years.
“We are fully behind the tremendous work that Trevor is doing as we know how valuable his first book, Nambucca Anzacs, is to the community and we know the next volume will be just as historically significant,” Nambucca Heads RSL subBranch President Dennis Lane told NOTA.
If you have a family member or friend who could be included in this work, join the Facebook group ‘Nambucca ANZACs WW2 Research’, email trevorglynch@gmail.com or phone 0408 669 449.
THE Coffs Coast Branch of the National Parks Association (NPA) is on the
of the region.
q Hiking in Bruxner Park Flora Reserve. Photo: Lyn Orrego.
‘Convenience costs’
By Ned COWIE
SMALL businesses are doing it tough, and many local operators say a large percentage of their overall earnings are paid to companies offering point of sale (POS) software and services through credit card, Eftpos and other banking transaction charges.
“In our first year of operation we absorbed transaction fees but that same year the business was robbed, there was constant roadworks (in Princess Street) and we found we paid between $4000 and $6000 to an Eftpos/ payments provider,” Daniel Duong, manager and owner of Ripple Café in Macksville told NOTA.
Initially with Australian payments provider Tyro, Daniel shopped around and changed to Square (a large US-based company) to get a better deal.
“We have had to start charging the fee of 1.6 percent (on all electronic transactions) to our customers just to make ends meet,” he said.
That 1.6 percent translates to 80 cents on each $50 transaction or $16 per $1000 of till takings.
On top of that, retailers surveyed said they paid monthly rental fees from $145-250 for equipment and software, a figure varying hugely depending on how
many and what sort of POS devices are used.
Transaction fees also ranged from 0.8 to 2.2 percent of each total transaction.
The manager of Yamstick Café in Bowraville told NOTA he is “pretty happy” with the service he receives from Square at a cost of 1.1 percent, having chosen to buy a Square register outright for around $5000 upfront.
“When the internet is down though, it may as well be a paperweight,” he laughed.
Newly-elected Nambucca Valley councillor Jane Smith is the owner of Matilda’s at Nambucca Heads.
She told NOTA that Square has allowed small businesses more opportunities to trade, with hand-held terminals and negotiated rates depending on the size of the business.
“In the past we would have had to use one of the big bank options but the charges would have been double or triple this for the same kind of service,” she said.
“We (Matilda’s) don’t on-charge the fee but are seriously looking at doing that, purely because it is the industry standard.
“With inflation, the community is not willing to pay increased product prices but with three minimum wage increases and superannuation recently going up, passing on transaction fees is certainly something we are looking at
doing.
“Hospitality businesses generally make about five to ten percent profit; nobody is making more than that,” she said.
Jane estimates her business contributed around $20,000 last year to Square through its banking terminals, monthly fees and other charges.
Some businesses use a different POS system and receive fee-free Eftpos/ savings account transfers whereas ‘tap’ and credit card transactions incur a fee of up to 1.5 percent, prompting staff to suggest customers insert their cards and enter a PIN to reduce their fees.
The difference between ‘tapping’ and inserting can be as much as $7.00 on a $500 charge.
“The ‘tap’ costs us, the retailer,” agreed Catherine, owner of Macksville’s Hanging By A Thread.
“Customers have to realise that convenience costs.”
Catherine recently changed to an Australian company (Lightspeed) for her POS system but said she tried to avoid using it because of the high transaction fees –around one percent.
“When I make a large sale, I put my bank details on the invoice and hope the customer can transfer the funds directly,” she said
Crown land grants
By Andrea FERRARI
APPLICATIONS have opened for the 2024-25 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF), which supports Crown land managers by providing funding for repairs, maintenance and improvements on Crown reserves.
The NSW Government program offers grants of $100,000 to $1 million per project.
This year’s CRIF general grants are targeting wellpatronised reserves with projects that have high community impact.
Crown reserves provide land for recreational areas and infrastructure like sports-fields, local parks, walking tracks and campgrounds.
They also provide land for community organisations and facilities such as public halls, showgrounds, racecourses, scout halls, and surf lifesaving clubs.
Eligible applicants include Crown land managers, such as local councils, community organisations, showgrounds, and other user groups that are licensed to use Crown reserves across NSW.
Grants will be made available to maintain and upgrade reserves and the facilities they offer.
Funding will also be available to manage feral pests and noxious weeds on reserves to keep them in good shape for community use and to protect native plants and animals.
Project applications will be assessed on criteria including social, economic, cultural or environmental benefits, including supporting public access,
amenity and use of reserves, social cohesion, participation in community life, conserving heritage or natural values, creating employment or business opportunities, and enabling Aboriginal people to manage and care for land.
Successful applicants will be notified between May and June 2025.
Grant recipients
Bellingen Shire Council has recently been informed of its success in the 2023-4 CRIF round for its project to upgrade Mylestom tidal pool and Alma Doepel Park.
Almost a quarter of a million dollars ($246,575) is being injected into North Beach Reserve to address safety and maintenance concerns.
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, said this funding will benefit the Mylestom community by enhancing the cultural, sporting and recreational uses of this
Her business does not pass on any transaction fees to customers and, according to Catherine, the popular sewing machine and haberdashery shop has never made a profit although in operation for seven years.
“We have been surviving, just breaking even, but we provide a service, and I love what I do.”
Another small business operator from the Nambucca Valley pointed out the link to young people not connecting with how much they spend.
“My daughter got a job and a banking card she could ‘tap’ to pay with,” he said.
“She got a huge surprise to find there was no money left at the end of the week because it was just so easy to ‘tap’ here and there and the small charges add up.”
He thinks that the system conditions people to spend without restraint.
Back on Macksville’s Princess Street, Mr Duong also expressed concern that customers who opt to 'tap' rather than pay with cash are distancing themselves from the mathematical reality of their diminished spending capacity.
“I read somewhere that people feel goods and services cost about 15 percent less if they ‘tap’ to pay,” he told NOTA.
Mr Duong says there is some misunderstanding about who is profiting from these charges and how much everyone is actually paying.
“Some customers get so angry that I am on-charging this fee that it has gotten to the point where I have refunded them their money,” he told NOTA.
“They think I’m putting it into my back pocket,” he said.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan expressed disappointment that local businesses were paying so much in transaction fees and encouraged them to shop around for the best deal as ‘tap and go’ is clearly here to stay.
“It does reiterate my sincere belief that cash is king, and that residents of our region who want to genuinely support our amazing network of local small businesses should use cash wherever possible.
“It’s also cheaper for the consumer!
“Those 1-2 percent fees on every transaction do add up.”
A spokesperson for the
international payments provider Square told NOTA, "Hundreds of thousands of Australian businesses choose to partner with Square because our business is designed specifically to meet their needs by giving them all the tools and software solutions they need to run their businesses.
“We can only succeed when Australian businesses succeed.
“Square’s simple and transparent pricing model provides sellers with payment processing, as well as sales reporting, point of sale software, risk management, PCI compliance, security, and more, all included.
“In the competitive payments space we know that we need to earn our customers’ trust every day, and it’s clear that sellers appreciate the flexibility, transparency, and value they get from a single, simple rate."
much-loved space.
“Investing in necessary improvements for the Mylestom tidal pool means our community has an asset they can be proud of and be able to use with minimal risk of injury,” he said.
“The upgrades will improve the overall structural stability and minimise trip
hazards from splinters and exposed screws, while the new railings and bollards will formalise areas within the Reserve to prevent erosion and damage to vegetation through unauthorised activities.”
Bellingen Shire Council was also successful with an application for weed
control and maintenance across Bellingen, Raleigh and Urunga, worth $51,833.
City of Coffs Harbour was also successful in its application for the construction of a permanent shade structure adjacent to the beach access ramp at Woolgoolga Beach reserve, worth $44,095.
q Hanging By a Thread in Macksville has never made a profit but its owner is committed to the shop and the service it offers for locals.
q Bellingen Shire Council Mayor, Cr Steve Allan, North Beach Community Alliance Spokesperson Trevor Williams and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp at North Beach Reserve.
Minister briefed on bushfire prep
MINISTER for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty met with Forestry Corporation fire specialists last week to discuss bushfire preparations on the Mid North Coast.
Minister Moriarty attended Forestry Corporation’s Wauchope depot to speak with fire crews, who are geared up and prepared for the NSW bushfire season.
Forestry Corporation is
one of the state’s four fire authorities, alongside the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW, and National Parks and Wildlife.
The organisation oversees land management, bushfire preparation and response across more than two-million hectares of state forests, and has more than 500 trained firefighters rostered on to respond to state forest fires
across NSW.
In 2023/24 Forestry Corporation firefighters and fire managers were engaged in a total of 184 fires.
Outside of the bushfire season, Forestry Corporation conducts forest hazard reduction burns, and cultural burns with local Aboriginal communities.
Forestry Corporation also sends its expert fire specialists
abroad in the winter months to assist international firefighting agencies in the Northern hemisphere.
“The NSW Forestry Corporation has managed fire in state forests for more than 100 years,” Minister Moriarty said.
“Forestry Corporation’s trained firefighters work in State forests every day of the year, protecting
lives, the environment, forestry resources and local communities.
“They have decades of experience in managing forest fires, working with the RFS, managing heavy equipment across major firegrounds and maintaining thousands of kilometres of fire trails.”
Forestry Corporation Fire and Operations Team Leader, Wauchope, Matt Model, said, “In managing more than 200,000 hectares of state forests here on the Mid
North Coast, we keep the Mid Coast Bush Fire Management Committee briefed on fuel loads and fire conditions in state forests.
“Since the Black Summer Bushfires here on the Mid North Coast firefighting technology has been rapidly expanded across NSW to include drones and satellite technology, which this summer will help our crews with early detection, mapping, response and containment of forest fires.”
Forest protests show no sign of abating
By Andrew VIVIAN
THE fight over native forests shows no sign of abating with conservationists continuing to claim that areas marked for the Great Koala National Park (GKNP) are being overly targeted by logging operations.
Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) and the State Government deny this, while activists continue to disrupt forestry operations.
Last week marked six months since the establishment of a camp in Pine Creek State Forest by activists to prevent logging operations.
A representative of
Bellingen Activist Network (BAN) said more than 200 people have visited the camp during that time.
“It’s been truly incredible to see the community support for the camp, particularly local businesses and individuals that supply us with donations such as bread, groceries and coffee,” the spokesperson said.
“The camp is very much a learning space, where people share information.
“It’s a mix of generations and cultural backgrounds contributing their stories and knowledge.”
Last week BAN members staged a ‘walk on’ in Tuckers Nob State Forest, leading to a
cessation of forestry work for several hours.
“The walk on was done by community members who have lived in the area for most of our lives,” BAN’s spokesperson told NOTA, claiming the forest is a mix of planted timber, regrowth timber and original forest.
A spokesperson for FCNSW told NOTA that current forestry operations in Tuckers Nob State Forest are “taking place entirely within a timber plantation”.
“While growing a native species, timber plantations are not native forests,” the spokesperson said.
“They are specifically planted for timber production
Law and Safety inquiry
THE Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety is continuing its inquiry into community safety in regional and rural communities with a public hearing in Kempsey next week.
The hearing will take place at Kempsey Shire Council Chambers on Tuesday, 29 October.
The inquiry is looking into the drivers of youth crime in the regions, as well as specific actions the NSW Government can take to support best practice prevention initiatives and improve community safety.
The Committee’s Chair, Edmond Atalla MP, said a high volume of inquiry
submissions came from residents in the Mid North Coast region.
"The Mid North Coast was one of most represented regions in terms of written submissions to this inquiry.
“This community is keenly feeling the effects of escalating crime and the Committee is ensuring their voices are heard as part of this important inquiry," Mr Atalla said.
"During the Committee's visit, we'll be hearing from a range of government and nongovernment stakeholders, as well as residents who have been victims of crime.
"I welcome the opportunity to meet with
community representatives on the Mid North Coast, to learn more about the issues affecting local residents, and to hear their ideas about improving community safety."
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the hearing is the best opportunity for the people of Oxley to share their personal stories and ideas about improving community safety.
“Our region has been plagued by violent crime for far too long,” he said.
“We need to feel safe in our homes and have our property respected.
“This community deserves better.”
Committee hearings are a
formal proceeding of Parliament.
on land that has historically been cleared.”
The spokesperson said that FCNSW maps and protects habitat for wildlife through the plantation area and there are strict regulations which set out clear conditions for protecting waterways.
The Tuckers Nob operation is supplying timber for processing by the North Coast timber industry into products in high demand, including power poles.
“While Forestry Corporation respects the right of members of the public to protest, harvest operations are active worksites, and it is unlawful and unsafe to enter
Only witnesses listed on the schedule will be permitted to take part in proceedings.
Although the hearing is open to members of the public to view, there will be very limited seating available.
Anyone interested in following proceedings is therefore strongly encouraged to watch the live broadcast on the NSW Parliament's website, rather than attending the venue.
closed areas,” the FCNSW spokesperson said.
BAN is one of numerous groups along the Mid North Coast and North Coast attempting to stop logging in what they hope will become the GKNP.
For example, the Pine Creek camp is held on behalf of the Friends Of Pine Creek, one of a number of ‘Friends’ conservation groups.
Elsewhere the Forestry Ecology Alliance holds weekly “mornings with the birds” at Little Newry State Forest.
The Bob Brown Foundation is planning a ‘Rally for Forests’ at Urunga on 3 November.
q The Pine Creek camp has been operating for six months in an attempt to block forestry operations.
q Bellingen Activist Network members disrupted logging operations with a ‘walk on’ last week. Photo: supplied.
Healing call as centenary marked at notorious boys home
By Keira JENKINS, AAP
UNCLE James Michael
'Widdy' Welsh was taken from his family in Coonamble, in central NSW, when he was eight years old.
He was taken hundreds of kilometres away to the Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Home near Kempsey.
"When we went through those gates, that little child didn't exist anymore," Uncle Widdy told AAP.
"We were given numbers, we were put in a way that we were never allowed to do anything, we were never allowed to ask for anything, never allowed to question anything."
Uncle Widdy's number was '36'.
He is one of hundreds of boys taken from their families
and placed at Kinchela between 1924 and 1970.
These boys were part of the Stolen GenerationsIndigenous children taken from families and community in an attempt to assimilate them into white society.
There are 49 survivors of Kinchela alive today.
Marking 100 years since Kinchela's establishment last Saturday, the survivors are calling for the site to be converted into a museum and healing centre.
Uncle Widdy, now aged 72, didn't want anything to do with the Kinchela site at first.
"I, like most of the brothers, just wanted to burn it down or blow it up," he said.
"We didn't want to go back to that place because it was an evil place to us.
"The truth is that would
not serve a purpose because it would just hide the trauma that comes from that place."
He wants the Kinchela site to be a place of truthtelling and healing, where the experiences of the survivors can be honoured.
"They'd flog us, they'd starve us, these are the things that happened there but we didn't have no one to tell," he said.
"That's why I want the structure rebuilt. I want my children to know that place, I want the spiritual world of that place to be settled, to be understood."
Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation, which supports the survivors, is planning to raise $5 million for the rebuild.
The corporation's chief executive Tiffany McComsey
said it is a matter of urgency to fulfil the wishes of survivors, who are all aged in their 70s and 80s.
"If there isn't an investment now in supporting survivor-led healing solutions, supporting Stolen Generations survivors and their communities, in having these sites returned to them so they can create healing centres, museums, keeping places, that opportunity is going to be lost," she said.
"It's only through their direct experiences of what happened in those places and those
Forestry breaches covered in new book
By Andrea FERRARI
‘BREACHES’, a book profiling the recent history of logging breaches by Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW), was launched in Pine Creek State Forest by its lead author, Dr Miriam Pepper.
A gathering organised by the Forest Advocacy Ministry, which is a project of members of the Uniting Church and the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), took place on Saturday, 5 October.
In addition to the book launch, Brentyn Lugnan of Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation spoke about connection to country, Forest Chaplain Rev. Dr Jason John led a reflection, and environment advocate Alison Heeley from Bellingen led a mindfulness walk.
In May this year, at the NSW Land and Environment Court, FCNSW admitted to the illegal destruction of three hollow-bearing trees in the Wild Cattle Creek State Forest, west of Coffs Harbour, in 2020.
It had already admitted to the destruction of six giant trees around the same time.
‘Breaches’ covers this and other illegal forestry practices in Bagawa State Forest beyond Coramba, as well as in six other forests on the south and north coasts.
“Since 2020, the EPA has started and/or completed more than 50 formal investigations of Forestry Corp’s compliance, often
after receiving complaints from the local community,” Dr Pepper said.
“More than 30 of these investigations have resulted in enforcement action so far, with fines and other costs totalling over $1.7 million.”
Some breaches have been prosecuted in the Land and Environment Court, with
three cases completed since 2020 (for offences since 2018) and the Wild Cattle Creek offences pending judgement.
These breaches include failing to abide by the postbushfire conditions that were intended to help surviving wildlife to recover, logging in prohibited areas, and felling
hollow-bearing and giant trees.
“Breaches can have serious consequences for wildlife,” Dr Pepper said.
“For example, cutting down trees with hollows used by hollow-dependent
threatened species such as greater and yellow-bellied gliders, owls, parrots and glossy black-cockatoos, destroys their homes.”
“Breaches” is published by the Forest Advocacy Ministry.
FCNSW was contacted for comment.
q ‘Breaches’ lead author Dr Miriam Pepper with the Forest Advocacy Ministry’s Jessi Levy and Jason John.
q Hundreds of Aboriginal boys were taken from their families to Kinchela between 1924 and 1970.
q A large crowd gathered last Saturday at the Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Home site, marking 100 years since its establishment.
q Marking 100 years since Kinchela's establishment last Saturday, survivors are calling for the site to be converted into a museum and healing centre.
q The launch of ‘Breaches’ in Pine Creek State Forest.
Robbie’s ride for children’s cancer
By Andrea FERRARI
COFFS COAST cyclist
Robbie Hay has stepped up to October’s Great Cycle Challenge, raising funds for childhood cancer.
At 4am on Saturday morning (October 26) he’s setting off from his home in North Coffs Harbour with the Sydney Opera House as his destination.
He’ll be biking through the Nambucca Valley by midmorning.
Having raised almost $1,600 so far he’s pedalling hard towards his goal of $2,500.
“I’ve been off the bike for about five years now, having stopped when the air quality was poor during the bush fires, but now I’m in my 40s I’ve decided to focus again on my health and get in the best shape of my life, so I’m back on the bike,” Robbie told News Of The Area.
Robbie’s goal was to ride 600km in the month of October, one km for each of the 600 children diagnosed in Australia each year with cancer.
However, once he had
set his sights on Sydney, he expects to have cycled almost 1000 km by the end of October.
“I know it’s nothing compared to what these kids, their parents and their family go through every day, but I hope I can help bring awareness and raise some funds for a great cause,” he said.
Donations are open until the beginning of November through the Great Cycle Challenge Facebook page.
Robbie’s training schedule began low key and local.
“I started with just some small rides around town which have grown in distance to Emerald Beach and Urunga.
“I don’t think they have fully prepared me for the ride, but that’s part of the challenge.”
Planning the expedition to Sydney he’ll be putting into practice some acquired learning.
“I don’t want to push it too hard too soon; it’s not a race and to just pace myself.”
He’s also setting an alarm to eat and drink.
“I don’t want to become
dehydrated or flat as it will be too difficult to catch up again if I’m still on the move.”
Applying sunscreen and regularly checking in with his wife are also on the ‘must do’ list.
“I have to get used to my own thoughts, stay positive and enjoy the ride.
“I have a strong faith in
God, so I’m looking forward to spending time riding in conversation with Him and knowing that ‘with God all things are possible’ - Matthew 19:26.”
With his tent onboard the bike he will be pitching up for the night along the route, sleeping in rest areas or on the side of the road.
q Coffs cyclist Robbie Hay hopes to arrive at Sydney Opera House on Tuesday 29 October.
Police target regional crime
POLICE arrested 15 people, laid 77 charges, executed 19 Firearm Prohibition Compliance checks, and seized nine firearms during a three-day deployment to Coffs Harbour last week.
State Crime Command’s surge deployment was led by the Robbery & Serious Crime Squad with the Coffs Clarence Police District in a bid to target crime in the Coffs Harbour area and surrounds.
The operation ran between Monday 14 and Wednesday 16 October and involved the deployment of over 100 officers attached to State Crime Command, who travelled to Coffs Harbour to work in collaboration with Coffs Clarence Police District and specialised resources including Pol Air, Traffic & Highway Patrol, Dog & Mounted Unit, Youth Command, the Firearm Registry and the NSW Crime Commission.
During the three-day operation, officers conducted 264 random breath tests (RBTs) and 47 random
drug tests – eight of which returned a positive result.
Police also conducted four storage inspections at various tobacconists and seized vapes and illegal tobacco worth approximately $600,000.
As part of the operation, officers established a vehicle check point on the Pacific Highway at Halfway Creek on Monday 14 October in response to a planned Mongols OMCG run.
In total, 36 vehicles were stopped and 42 alleged members were processed, photographed and subject to roadside drug and alcohol testing.
Three riders will be issued court attendance notices (CANs) for possessing a prohibited weapon, displaying a Nazi symbol in public, and possessing a prescribed restricted substance.
Several other incidents of note have been reported by NSW Police.
About 11am on Tuesday 15 October 2024, officers investigating a number of
armed robberies in the area arrested a 43-year-old man and 25-year-old woman in Port Macquarie.
They were taken to Port Macquarie Police Station where the man was charged with nine offences relating to alleged break and enters and robberies.
He was refused bail and appeared in Port Macquarie Local Court on Wednesday 16 October.
The woman was charged with ‘aggravated break & enter dwelling etc in company intend steal <=$60K’ and ‘drive motor vehicle during disqualification period’.
She was granted conditional bail to appear in Port Macquarie Local Court on Wednesday 13 November.
Police will allege in court the man was involved in an armed robbery at a licenced premises Kew in January, stealing a motor vehicle from a business in Urunga in August, two break and enters in East Ballina and Ballina in August, and two more conspiracies to break and
enter.
At about 8am on Tuesday 15 October, officers executed a search warrant at an address in Coffs Harbour where they arrested a 39-year-old man.
During the search, police located a number of electronic devices containing child abuse material, stolen number plates and prohibited drugs.
The man was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station where he was charged with two counts of ‘use carriage service to access child abuse
q Robbie Hay takes on October’s Great Cycle Challenge, raising funds for childhood
Robbie’s route will be mainly highway with the occasional detour for safety.
“Since bicycles are not allowed on the freeway, I will ride to Ettalong, get the ferry to Palm Beach and ride through to the Opera House,” he said.
Robbie hopes to roll into Circular Quay and up to the Opera House steps no later
material’, ‘use carriage service to solicit child abuse material’, ‘deal with identity info to commit etc indictable offence’, and ‘possess prohibited drug’.
He was refused bail and appeared in Coffs Harbour Local Court on Wednesday 16 October.
About 7am on Monday 14 October 2024, officers executed a search warrant in Boambee East where they arrested a 30-year-old man.
During the search police located and seized
than Tuesday.
“I’ve always dreamt of cycling across America, so this might end up being a trial run for that.”
Robbie plans to return to Coffs Harbour by train ready for work on Thursday.
Robbie is the franchise owner of Jim’s Carpet Cleaning Sawtell.
prohibited drugs, items used in a hydraulic block press and electronic devices.
The man was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station where he was charged with two counts of ‘supply prohibited drug >indictable & <commercial quantity’, ‘four counts of possess prohibited drug’, and ‘fail to comply digital evidence access order direction’.
He was granted conditional bail to appear in Coffs Harbour Local Court on Wednesday 13 November.
cancer.
q Officers established a vehicle check point on the Pacific Highway at Halfway Creek in response to a planned Mongols OMCG run
Cattle Team celebrates successful year
By Ned COWIE
2024 HAS been a standout year so far for the Bowraville Central School Cattle Team, with numerous victories and accolades at various agricultural shows.
At the Kempsey Agricultural Show, Bowraville Central School team members Jaz, May, Sierra, Layne and Mikayla between them scored four first places, as well as the Under 13 Champion title, Reserve Champion under 14, and Reserve Champion in the Junior Dairy section,” Abram Le Cerf of Bowraville Central School told NOTA.
The children also took home numerous second and third places between them.
For the cattle team, the excitement continued at the
Macksville Show, where 24 students showcased their talents over two days of dairy and beef cattle competitions.
They showed plenty of creative flair during the fancy-dress competition, transforming their heifers into “Halloween Cow”, “Xmas Cow”, “Party Cow”, and “Rainbow Cow”.
Layne outshone 38 competitors to take out the 12 and Under Junior Parader Class while the school’s stud cattle entries Gina, Cobby, Tilly, and Softy won Champion and Supreme Champion of Breed, and Indy and Tequila took out Reserve Champion of Breed titles.
At the Coffs Harbour Show, the team won the prestigious Perpetual Trophy for the Best Presented and Prepared
Animal by a School.
In the junior parading section, six students placed at the top across various age groups while in Junior Judging, a trifecta of places was awarded to the school with Layne in first place, Mikayla second and Lailana placing third out of the 25 competitors.
Stud heifer Softy also earned the title of Supreme European Senior Female.
The Bellingen Show marked the end of the 2024 show season for the Mid North Coast region, and the Cattle Team finished on a high note with a first place in Junior Parader, a couple of first places in Junior Judging, while Reserve Champion Junior Judge was awarded to competitors from the school.
“Our Cattle Team has
had an extraordinary year so far, filled with well-deserved recognition for their diligence, skill, and commitment,” Mr Le Cerf said.
“With the New England region’s Dorrigo Show just around the corner, students are now busy preparing both our dairy and beef cattle for
their next competition before the season concludes.
“Our entire school community couldn’t be prouder of them all,” he said.
Zumba event raises $1100 for charity
By Ned COWIE
A MID NORTH COAST Zumba
Gold charity event held at the Macksville Ex-Services Club has raised more than $1100 for the Melanoma Institute.
Around 50 people attended the fundraiser event last Saturday afternoon which was the sixth organised by
local Zumba Gold instructors.
Cheryl Summerville (Macksville), Krista Gillen (Port Macquarie), Mandy Farrow (Coffs Harbour) and Kerri Mergan (Valla Beach/ Nambucca Heads) brought devotees from their local classes to attend the lively event.
“We have been running
Zumba classes in the area for eight years and it is always a lot of fun,” Cheryl told NOTA.
“All the money we raise at events like this goes to charity and even the Club lets us use the hall for free - that’s their contribution,” she said.
According to Cheryl, there are around 80 people from the Nambucca Valley who
attend Zumba Gold classes.
“We have a lot of social events and we always go for coffee or lunch in the bistro after our weekly Wednesday class in Macksville,” she said.
“There are Zumba dancers in their 50s, 60s, 70s and now a couple in their 80s in the Valley.
“Zumba Gold is a low
impact dance class with a Latin rhythm that suits everyone from beginners through to the very fit.”
Many of the enthusiastic audience wore fancy dress with the theme being the letter ‘p’, leading to such innovative costumes as pixies, princesses, prisoners, pizzas, Peter Pan, Pocahontas, a P-plater, and a range of colours beginning with the letter.
In recent years, the annual event has raised money for
such organisations as Marine Rescue, Careflight, Animals Australia and the local cancer support group.
q Cattle Show Team at Macksville Show with Dairy Heifers Merle and Steph.
q The Bowraville Central School Cattle Team.
q Attendees dressed to the theme - ‘The letter P’.
q The Four Zumba Gold instructors who organised last Saturday’s event: (L-R) Cheryl Summerville from Macksville, Krista Gillen from Port Macquarie, Mandy Farrow from Coffs Harbour and Kerri Mergan from Valla Beach/ Nambucca Heads.
q The Cattle Show team received the Best Presented Animal by a School Team Perpetual Trophy.
Choose an NDIS Provider with 30 years of experience
SUBEE provides in-home aged care, nursing, and NDIS disability support services on the Coffs Coast.
With a host of providers on offer across the NDIS space, why choose Subee?
“There is a wide array of professional oversight and accreditation required in the care sector, to protect you and your loved ones,” the Subee team told NOTA.
“And as a long-established, trusted local care service, we have to pass regular audits of our procedures.”
A Registered NDIS provider, Subee is certified against the NDIS Practice Standards.
The company receives regular audits, are fully insured, and have a responsive incident management and complaints system.
“Our staff are trained in NDIS care procedures, risk management, infection control and a variety of ongoing learning and career opportunities,” the Subee team said.
“And, all our workers are screened and have clinical support from registered nurses and service coordinators.”
So, if you are eligible for NDIS services, and are looking for a reliable provider who is more than just a sole trader with an ABN, Subee can help.
“We think it is important to offer our clients the best
people to provide the best care we can.”
Call Subee’s NDIS Team today on 02 6651 3153 for a no-obligation chat.
“We can help you get the most out of your NDIS funding.”
q Subee is a Registered NDIS provider.
By Manny WOOD
Trouble in paradise
AFTER David’s wife died, he and his daughter Jenny purchased an idyllic property, comprising two cosy homes and enough space for a few cows and a decent garden.
However, as with many family ventures, life introduced unexpected challenges that threatened to unravel their peaceful paradise.
The trouble began when Jenny invited her partner to live with her.
David initially welcomed the addition of an extra set of hands, and he did enjoy Jenny’s partner’s company.
However, unfortunately for David, Jenny became more interested in her new friend and David was left to care for the cows, maintain the property and ensure all the bills were paid.
David felt frustrated and anxious about what laid ahead…. this was not working-out as he expected.
Nevertheless, David was conscious not to cause a rift with Jenny, as she was very happy.
Rather than allowing the situation to spiral into a bitter dispute, David and Jenny realised that preserving their familial bond and peace on the property was paramount.
Together they sought legal advice to craft a comprehensive deed to govern their shared living arrangement.
The deed, akin to a “tenants in common agreement”, outlined clear divisions of responsibility and space.
David and Jenny each retained exclusive use of their respective homes, ensuring their privacy and autonomy.
The deed also detailed how shared areas would be maintained, the looking after the cows and garden, and expenses such as utilities, repairs, and rates, would be fairly divided.
Moreover, the deed established an efficient conflict resolution mechanism.
In the event of a disagreement, the parties agreed to engage in mandatory mediation, with the option for binding arbitration if necessary.
By clearly defining the boundaries of ownership and responsibility, the deed provided much-needed clarity and security.
Jenny’s partner, though initially the cause of conflict, was also considered in the agreement, ensuring that all parties had a stake in maintaining peace on the property.
Thank you to Anthony Fogarty for his assistance with this column.
Email Manny Wood, principal solicitor at TB Law at manny@tblaw.net. au or call him on (02) 66 487 487.
This fictional column is only accurate at today’s date and cannot be relied upon as legal advice.
The
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch
My experience of pesticides
DEAR News Of The Area,
RAEWYN Macky’s recent letter in NOTA was interesting.
I have no knowledge of blueberry growing, but I have farmed macadamias, avocados and lychees here in Boambee for 47 years and used plenty of Dimethoate over that time.
I was also party to a number of chemical trials that were carried out in this area.
Raewyn makes a number of claims as to what dimethoate may cause.
She says it is considered carcinogenic, it may cause genetic changes, and may damage a developing foetus, but provides no verifiable evidence to support her claims.
She also espoused the benefits of bait spraying for Queensland fruit fly (QFF).
It does have some effect on QFF but she is sadly misguided if she believes that bait spraying has controlled QFF in the Murray or in North Qld.
QFF made it into the Murray River valley some 20 years ago at Albury.
In that 20 years it has acclimated to colder weather, and steadily expanded its range down to somewhere near Robinvale, depending on who you believe.
So bait spraying is a tool not an
DEAR Jasminda,
My husband ruins every morning by sitting next to me in bed doom scrolling and reading the headlines out loud. How can I stop this behaviour?
Helen F
Dear Helen,
answer.
As for integrated pest management (IPM), it also has some benefit in controlling insect invasion, but the Mid North Coast is the southernmost limit of predatory insects' ability to winter over.
So in most years they die out and you have to start again.
I trialled IPM at huge cost (around $8000 a year) on this farm for three years but was unable to obtain a significant benefit.
IPM really is only successful where there is no native scrub or home gardens around that harbour pests.
Dimethoate is used in the lychee industry to control Erinose mite before flowering and after harvest when the trees begin to flush.
It is not used on the fruit.
The only alternative is Wettable Sulphur which is only partly effective.
There are viable alternatives in the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Management Authorities (APVMA) pipeline but they can take up to twelve years to approve a new chemical, even though all the necessary trials have been done in other countries.
Regards, Ted KNOBLOCK, Boambee.
Housing market failure
DEAR News Of The Area,
THE price of housing in Australia has become such an issue it has been called a crisis.
Many people have been priced out of ever owning a home and having the security of shelter that should be a human right.
As we approach a federal election it will be discussed endlessly.
Here is my two cents.
Firstly, what does not work?
Any scheme that puts money into the hands of first home buyers, such as first homeowner grants, stamp duty exemption, or access to one's superannuation funds, will increase the price of housing.
It will not build a single house.
Secondly, why not build more houses?
Around 178,000 new houses are expected to be built this financial year, which is well short of the 240,000
required to meet government commitments.
The main problem with building more houses is a shortage of skilled workers. It has been pointed out by the trades industry bodies that we need well over 100,000 new building workers to meet the challenge.
But skilled workers cannot be just magiced up out of thin air.
Trade workers need to complete a four year apprenticeship which is often poorly paid and the TAFE courses are expensive.
Add to that the fact that the building industry is male dominated, which is self-reinforcing and restricts the potential labour pool.
Only 13.6 percent of building and construction workers are female.
Even if we invest in training and get more women into the industry, which needs to happen, that is a pipeline that will take five to ten years to get up to full speed.
I just had a quick glance at the headlines to familiarise myself with your conundrum. I'm not sure what you are rabbiting on about.
I mean, sure there are wars raging on multiple fronts, and a once spectacular lake drowning in toxic waste.
Hang on, maybe I've just gone with the wrong media group.
I'll try again. Okay, so over in the US, Trump is still not admitting to losing the 2020 election.
Holy Moses. But that's in America.
How about local news?
Okay, there has been a family tragedy closer to home.
An airport security issue.
Ok, Helen.
This is not a great way to start a day.
In fact, I was happily watching my chooks fossicking around the garden, and now I'm surrounded by devastation, and those pesky online analytics are going crazy trying to give me more of what they think I want, which is anything with a whiff of devastation, destruction and apocalyptic intent.
So now, just as you blamed your husband, I'm blaming you, Helen.
Finally, there needs to be an incentive to build houses in a way that lowers the price of all houses.
House prices need to fall to make them more affordable to more people.
They cannot keep rising faster than wages and inflation forever.
That is not sustainable.
The government must intervene in the market and build public housing to put pressure on the private market.
Australians have the
My day could have gone in one of two directions. I could have been mesmerised by the sonorous calls of magpies and the uplifting laughter of kookaburras.
I could have been quietly sipping a strong cup of tea with my dog leaning against my leg.
I could have observed the swaying gum tree branches against a pale grey sky.
I could have eased into a bit of brain work getting Wordle in three lines.
But no, now I'm stuck in a state of existential dread.
There is a simple answer, though.
Take control, Helen. You don't have to be a mere vessel for your husband's daily catastrophising.
You could instead listen to a podcast of your choosing (headphones have saved many marriages, I'm sure of it), or read a few pages of a book you enjoy.
If you have a dog, you could go for a brisk walk and take in life's simple pleasures.
Or you could just grab a pillow, place it over your husband's face, and… no, no, don't do that one, Helen, or else you will be in the news and we'll all be saying, 'What on earth possessed her? She seemed like such a gentle and caring woman. You just never know, do you? Just yesterday she was saying hello over the fence, and now she's in the headlines.'
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
largest houses in the world. We also, like most of the world, have a falling birth rate.
It would not kill us to build and live in smaller houses. There is so much more to say on this issue but I will leave it there, except to say that we are witnessing a market failure that needs action to reduce the price of houses as a goal.
Peter SOBEY, Valla.
Have Your Say
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On board with Sunflower signalling
By Andrea FERRARI
BUSWAYS is expanding support for the internationally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program on the North Coast.
The move coincides with Invisible Disabilities Week (20-26 October).
A distinctive green and yellow sunflower-themed lanyard can be worn by people with a non-visible disability like autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety or hearing impairments.
It allows them to discreetly signal that they may need additional support from Busways staff, without disclosing their conditions.
Over 85 percent of Busways drivers and staff in Coffs Harbour and other North Coast regions have
completed Sunflower lanyard recognition training.
Recognition alerts the driver to provide appropriate support, such as helping passengers when boarding and disembarking, or navigating stressful situations.
“By joining the Sunflower program and training our drivers, we are making our buses more accessible and inclusive for all,” said Adam Turner, Assistant Area Manager, Upper North Coast and Coffs Coast.
“We aim to create a space where everyone can feel respected and understood, allowing those with hidden challenges to travel with ease and dignity.
“This initiative reinforces Busways’ commitment to accessibility and providing a
supportive environment to all passengers.
“Our goal is to make a positive difference in their daily lives and help everyone to feel welcome on board.”
Free Sunflower lanyards can be obtained from Transport for NSW by emailing sunflower@ transport.nsw.gov.au.
q A young Busways user wearing the Sunflower lanyard. Photo: Transport for NSW.
Dutton sets up housing showdown with big build pledge
By Neve BRISSENDEN, AAP
A COALITION government will make home ownership viable for more Australians, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton says, promising $5 billion to fast-track building projects.
Mr Dutton on Saturday unveiled the coalition's Housing Infrastructure Program, designed to expedite construction of up to half a million homes through a mixture of grants and concessional loans.
If elected, the coalition would temporarily fund water, power and sewerage to move the projects along as part of the commitment.
"This is a game-changer
for young Australians who can't see the opportunity yet to own a home," Mr Dutton told reporters in Perth.
Nambucca Heads Womens Bowling Club
By Nerida BLACKFORD
RECENT results from Thursday social bowls for the women at Nambucca Bowls Club are:
Triples games- Marilyn Montgomery, Karen Liddel and Joan Haigh, 20 def Gloria Richardson, Michelle Fredericks and Lee 15; Elaine Fleming, Arlene Duffus and Ann Marie Johnson won over Sandra Seckold, Marg Duffus and A-M J 14-12; and in a game of pairs, Bev Jones and Nerida Blackford 23defeated Margaret Flagg and Teresa Meehan 14.
The following week our numbers were down to 12, with many ladies away on family duties or holidays. Teresa, Anne Marie and Elaine defeated Joan, Michelle
and Nerida 15-12 and then Arlene, Rosie and Sandra won 24-17 over Kerrie, Pam and Marg D.
Our Ladies Minor Singles Championship is down in numbers, with many of our bowlers not eligible to play having gained the title previously. 4 players will be trying to add their name to this this title.
Whilst our weekly bowling numbers average 14, we have some promising new ladies coming down for coaching and to enjoy a roll up, so we hope they become bowling members soon and join our group.
Bowls is a terrific, inclusive sport for all ages and abilities- if you’d like to have a go, try the varied barefoot bowls events our club hosts Thursday or Saturday evenings, or Sunday mixed social morning.
Noting it did not usually fall to the federal government to fund enabling infrastructure, he pledged to pay councils, utility companies or developers to fast-track development.
The bodies must use the money within a year.
"Under the Albanese government, Australia is facing a housing crisis. The great Australian dream of home ownership has never felt further out of reach," he
said.
"We need to get our country back on track, and restore the Australian dream of home ownership."
But Housing Minister Clare O'Neil said the promise did not make up for the coalition's planned cuts to spending on social and affordable housing.
"Peter Dutton is taking with one hand and giving with the other. It's a card trick," she told reporters.
The opposition also announced a freeze and a review of the National Construction Code, claiming changes to energy efficiency standards had added up to $60,000 to the price of a new home.
Pressure had been mounting on the opposition to unveil more policies ahead of next year's federal election, with housing affordability and cost-of-living front of mind for voters.
Master Builder Australia chief executive Denita Wawn backed the coalition's policy, saying red tape needed to be cut.
"A pause on unnecessary code changes that increase cost and complexity without meaningful improvements in standards is a positive step," Ms Wawn said.
"Labour shortages, access to water, sewerage, power and roads, union disruption, and red tape all significantly impact the final project cost and build time."
The Business Council of Australia and the Urban Development Institute of Australia also backed the policy.
"This is smart policy that goes right to the heart of
addressing the housing crisis and ensuring there are poles, pipes, wires and roads so houses can actually be built," the institute's president Col Dutton said.
Labor has legislated a $10 billion fund for social and affordable housing but its plan to help lower-income Australians buy 40,000 homes is stalled in the Senate. At the same time, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been forced to defend the purchase of a $4.3 million luxury home for himself and his future wife Jodie Haydon.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference last Wednesday, Mr Albanese was asked whether the purchase was a "good look" during a cost-of-living crisis.
"I understand that I've been fortunate, but I also know what it's like to struggle," he said.
"My mum lived in the one public housing flat that she was born in for all of her 65 years.
"I know what it's like, which is why I want to help all Australians into a home, whether it be public homes or private rentals or home ownership."
Macksville Country Club Mens Bowls
By Mark COLEMAN
WE'VE had a few things happening at the club over the last month with the semi finals and final of the Major Singles Mark.Coleman 27 v Ben Lane 17, Dale Down 25 v Bernie Unterheinner 11.
Final Mark 25 v Dale 11. Major Pairs is underway and will have results once semis are played.
MCC Mens Bowls along
with Macksville Mitre 10 held a business house twilight bowls night as a fundraiser for the McGrath Foundation, 60 or so bowlers had a great night and raised in excess of $1200 for a great cause, well done those that got involved on the night.
Macksville Classic Triples will be held on 2-3 November. Come on down and watch some great bowls being played.
q Mark Coleman and Dale Down.
q Busways drivers and staff in Coffs Harbour have completed Sunflower lanyard recognition training. Photo: Transport for NSW.
q Peter Dutton has unveiled a $5 billion housing policy ahead of next year's federal election. Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club
By Geoff McCANN
WEEK ENDING SUNDAY
10th OCTOBER 2024.
Championships commencing this week on the Island – Thank you to our Championship sponsors HLV Partners for the Men, and Bernared Laverty Funerals for the Women.
Starting off the week with a Medley Stableford sponsored by McGrath Real Estate, won by Thomas Wattison (16) with 42 points from Paul Ryan (15) 38 points and Hans Jansen (22) 37 points – the ball rundown to 32 points on c/b. NTP’s to Louise Ainsworth on 5, Andrew Johnston on 8, Rodney Kinnear won the “Pizza This” voucher on 13, Graham Watson got Stu’s ball on 15 and the Pro Pin Jackpot on 18.
First round of the Women’s Championship on Wednesday. Sue Brooks (13) won “A” Grade ( 0 to 23) with net 67 from Maxine
Townsend (18) net 68. Donna Easey (25) won “B” Grade (23 to 31) with net 68 from Marilyn McNally (26) net 70. Linda Piccin (34) won “C” Grade (32 to 45) with net 74 from Kerry Shearer (38) net 75. The Ball rundown to 73 on c/b.
Another Medley Stableford on Thursday. Nev Newman (8) scored 38 points to win Division 1 (0 to 14) from Stuart Johnston (11) 36 points. Joshua Rose (36) from GSC won Division 2 (15 to 22) with 36 points from Robert Coneybeare (18) 35 points. Edward Beaton (24) won Division 3 (23 to 45) with 36 points from Bernard Dugdale (26) 35 points. The Ball rundown to 32 points on c/b. Ross Morpuss canned the “Ecomist” Longest putt on 1st Hole, other NTP’s to Graham Watson on 5, Gary Laing on 7, Dennis Ashton on 8, John Spence won the “Pizza This” voucher on 13, New Newman on 15 (115cms) and Bryce
McCarroll very close on 18 with only 52cms. Round 2 of the Women’s Championships on Friday. Sue Brooks (12) kept up her good form winning “A” Grade with 67 net on c/b from Kerrie Eichorn (10). Ann Antcliff (28) won “B” Grade with net 66 from Coral McCann (29) net 68. Robyn Dyer (37) won “C” Grade with net 73 net from Linda Paluch (34) net 78. The ball rundown to net 72 on c/b. NTP’s to Denise Paluch, Robyn Jones & Linda Piccin on 5, Kerrie Eichorn, Judith Boyle & Joy Green on 8, Martine Murray won the “Pizza This” voucher on 13 and Judith Boyle got the Pro Pin Jackpot on 18. Luckily, the wild Thunderstorm Friday evening didn’t result in too much rain and wind damage to the course for Saturday’s opening round of the Men’s Championship. Nev Newman (9) won “A” Grade (0 to 12) with net 68 from Craig
Nambucca Valley Bridge Club News
By Barb MARANIK
THANK you to all who supported and participated in 2024 fund raising day, $750 was raised for ‘Youthie’ a local group supporting young people in the Valley.
Upcoming events:
31st Australia wide restricted pairs for players with less than 300 master points. Table fees table fees $10 as this is an Australia wide event.
5th November –Melbourne Cup day.
11am START
16th November – Red
points
27th November – under 100 MP’s for the people new to bridge
Results for week ending 20th October 2024
Monday 14th October –
3 tables
1st Lynne & John Slade (57%), 2nd Linda & Mike Siford (53%), 3rd Judy Holloday & Vicki Walker (57%)
Tuesday 15th October –2 ¼ tables individual play
1st Maureen Cowan (64%), 2nd Amber Fox (56%), 3rd Carol McKee (54%)
Thursday 17th October
– 5 tables red points ‘Charity Day’ North
1st Mike Siford & Colin Tolley (67%), 2nd Janet Dyson & Maureen Cowan (61%), 3rd Sandra Ellis & Leonie Harrison (44%)
South
1st Carol McKee & Vicky Walker (56%), 2nd Richard Levy & Lyndall, (54%), 3rd Theda Faulwetter & Gaye Beyers (53%)
Saturday 19th October 2 ½ tables
1st Barbara Maranik & Maureen Cowan (57%), 2nd Neil & Ali Tupper (52%), 3rd Colleen Robertson & Libby Knight (50%)
Macksville Country Club Golf
By Max TURNER
ALTHOUGH greens were still in recovery mode after programmed renovations there was little effect on results in the Advance Pumping and Irrigation sponsored Stableford event played on Saturday.
John Day finished with a two under par 38, one shot ahead of runner up Max Graham who beat Jim Wilkes on a count back .
Straight shooters were Mick Manning (A), Jim Wilkes (B) and Graham Everett (in C grade). With the course out on Tuesday a group of ladies took the opportunity to try out courses on the Clarence.
With the Mid Week Competition playable on any day John Fortescue won with son Brad finishing runner up.
On the 26th is one of the Club's big days with "Mingo's" (Binalong Promotional Clothing) sponsored three person Ambrose open to all with a "shotgun" start at 7am or 11am.
CALLING all Nambucca Valley sporting and recreation clubs!
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Monday evening for publication on a Friday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it inour dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au.
Haworth (11) net 69. Troy Herbert won scratch with 74. Garry Johnstone (14) won “B” Grade (13 to 18) with net 70 from Tim Kinnear (15) net 71. Scratch winner Graham Weary 84. Dylan Mann (22) easily won “C” Grade (19 to 45) with net 65 from Phillip Smith (27) net 69. Scratch Winner Trevor Hopkins 94. The Ball Rundown to net 75. Trevor Peck canned the “Ecomist” longest Putt on 1, other NTP’s to Stephen Carr on 5 (73cms), Murray Ingram on 7, Beau Lavender on 8, Stuart Johnston won the “Pizza This” voucher on 13, Troy Herbert won Stu’s ball on 15 & Edward Beaton was only 56 cms away on 18 to take the Pro Pin Jackpot. Sunday was Round 2 of the Men’s Championship. Glen Crow (11) and Graham Watson (5) both scored net 68 in “A” Grade, Glen winning the c/b. Peter Farrell won scratch 76. Joe Street (18) and Graham Weary (13) both scored net 70 in “B”
Grade, Joe winning on c/b. Christian Knight won scratch 84. Robert Reid (21) won “C” Grade with net 71 from Mark Blake (34) net 72. James McIlveen won scratch 93. The Ball Rundown to net 75 on c/b. NTP’s to Trevor Hopkins on 5, Nathaniel Beverley on 7, Stuart Johnston on 8, Nev Newman on 13, Greg McCoy on 15 & Christian Knight on 18.
Good luck to all golfers for the final Championship rounds next week. Some Leaderboard updates:
Scott Burley is on 345 and Stephen Carr is on 347 in the Race to the Hunter Valley Leaderboard for the Tuesday monthly “Island Challenge” stroke series – setting up for nail biting finish!
In the Eclectic, Troy Herbert is leading the Gross with 65 from Ashton Herbert & Graham Watson 66. Trevor Hopkins is leading the Net on 60.5, with Stephen Doherty & Ashton Herbert on 61 –another close finish with the last round next month.
The TopGun Shootout Leaderboard will be updated
Bowra Golf Results
By Julee TOWNSEND
19-10-24
A SINGLE Stableford was held. Winner: G Nugent, R /Up: K Wilson F/9 B Brabant, B/9 D Banks N/P 2nd D Wren 9th D Wren
L/Putt: B Brabant . Ball Comp 1. R Graham 2. D Wren 3 C Cuthberson
shortly to show the Top 10 Stableford scores.
Members are reminded that Nominations for Board of Directors are now open, closing Sunday 27th October at 3pm. The Club AGM is on Sunday b24/11/2024 at 10am at the Clubhouse. See you on the Island!
Nambucca Bowls Report
By Charles POTTER
WEDNESDAY Oct 16 26
turned up for the Nissan/ Breakaway Triples and Sharon Webber, Grant Squires and Ty Webber won the day with Fred You, Ken Brown and Ian Poletti second and Glenn Brady and Bojangles Ruane third. Tas Fribbins drew Lucky Bowler but failed to draw his rink for the Jackpot of $180.
Fri Oct 18 A good field of 66 saw Tony Stokes, Terry Snowden and Fred Pope take out the major prize. Jai, Brent Liddell and Col Crawford were second and 3rd was not recorded. Someone not prepared to endanger his amateur status, no doubt. The Lucky Losers were Perry McNally, Bill Mann and Gary Tierney. Ben Ford was the lucky
bowler but missed pulling his rink, worth $540, warmly received by sixty of us. The other six, not so much.
Sat Oct 19 Triples Championship Semi Finals. Mick Ellison, Owen Smith and Joe Franck def Dallas Nancarrow, Stuart Hughes and Bojangles Ruane 2218 and, on an extra end, Terry Steele, Red Dog Ward, subbing for Mitch McGill, and Ty Webber 22 def Ben Ford, Wayne Dargan and Graham Hunt 21
Iluka Travelling Bowlers visited but, disappointingly, in reduced numbers. Lunch preceded 2 games of 9 ends of 2 bowl triples and there were no winners and losers ... random teams drawn from a hat.
Business Houses Barefoot Fun Night. A good roll up of 24 for our first
venture in this evening event and the winners were Foreshores, second Bridgestone, 3rd the Bowlo and 4th McGraths Real Estate. Next week, get there 6pm for a 6.30 start. Two games 2 bowl triples of 7 ends... winners play winners and losers play losers. Then a shootout over 2 ends with the W v W and L v L Final over two ends also. Sun Oct 20 Triples Championship Final: Steele, McGill and Webber def Ellison, Smith and Franck 29-10. Congratulations to the winners and well played Mick, Owen and Joe and the other semifinalists who put on a great Saturday arvo's viewing.
Sunday Social Only 10 players... winners were Jock Headley, Jen Thorne and Pat Fletcher. Marg Duffus and Patto the Lucky Losers.
q Jim Wilkes, Beau Lavender, John Fortescue and Jordan Welsh.
newsofthearea.com.au
Public Notices
NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF NAMBUCCA RIVER JOCKEY CLUB
Notice is given that the Annual General Meeting of the Nambucca River Jockey Club Limited will be held on Saturday 9 November at the Bowraville Race Course commencing at 10:00 am. Nominations for a position as a Director of the Club must be lodged with the Secretary at 2 Mattick Road MACKSVILLE by 4.30pm Friday 25 October 2024.
Nomination forms can be obtained by phoning the undersigned on 0421 987 258 or email nambuccajockeyclub@gmail.com.
All Members of NVC Group Limited are hereby advised that, per the provisions of Clause 16.11.2 of the Constitution, nominations are now invited for three positions on the Board of Directors.
Members who, under the Constitution of the Company are eligible to do so and who wish to nominate for these positions, are invited to submit their nominations on the prescribed form to the undersigned at the address below no later than 5pm on 31 October, 2024.
Nomination forms are available from Administration Officer Karina Johnson on 6598 5000 or admin@nvcl.org.au
Completed nominations to be returned to: Company Secretary NVC Group Limited 23 Princess Street Macksville, NSW, 2447
newsofthearea.com.au
Wild Dog Baiting 1080 wild dog baits will be laid on the property at: 2950 Giinagay Way, Valla. 2448.
From 28th October to 11th November 2024. Ensure pets and working dogs do not enter the baiting location.
Further Information contact phone 0418992441 Public Notices
property 1km from Grassy Head beach. Phone 0490206035 for more information.
Price Reduced! MALTESE Shih Tzu puppies. 2 boys, 4 girls. Available now Located in Port Stephens BIN# B000616552 Call or text 0474 378 452
bed, base and mattress, Sealy brand, GC, Urunga $50. 0427684202
6568 8204
$225 0415 981 605 2016 Range Rover EvoqueTD4 105SE Auto 4x4 My16.5 Diesel Turbo 2L, 12 months rego, 63,600 kms, Rego DHZ61Z exc cond. $30,000 ono Ph 0439 759
$400 ono. 0413 077 493
Clive is a male Domestic Short Hair cat, he is approximately 2 years old. Clive was found along Sturdee Street, Macksville on 11 September 2024. Clive has a very friendly temperament. As his owner has not come forward, Clive is looking for his forever home.
Adoption fee for 2024/2025 is $220 and this includes microchipping, vaccination, desexing & lifetime registration. Please visit Councils website to view the full list of animals available for adoption or lost. For any adoption
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Letter Boxes & Hose Reels
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY GROWING HOME WITH JAMIE DURIE
SEVEN, 8.30pm
Jamie Durie (pictured) certainly has his hands full: not only is he researching, designing and building the most environmentally friendly home possible and
filming the process, but he’s also running his own business, planning a wedding to his partner, singer-songwriter Ameka Jane, while the couple await the birth of their second child. The former Backyard Blitz presenter returns to Aussie TV with this informative and innovative project that also gives viewers a behind-thescenes peek at his home life. Durie’s lifelong passion for sustainability informs every aspect of his dream home, from geothermal heating and cooling to protecting his block’s native gum trees. Growing Home is a breath of fresh air.
FRIDAY, October 25
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Miniseries: Nolly. (Ml,
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Miniseries: Nolly. (Ml) Part 2 of 3. With exit day looming, Nolly is desperate to know how she will be killed off from Crossroads 9.15 Fisk. (Ml, R) Ray breaks the networking group rules.
9.45 Question Everything. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson and Jan Fran.
10.20 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
10.50 ABC Late News.
11.05 The Larkins. (PG, R)
12.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs.
MONDAY
LOVE ISLAND AUSTRALIA
NBN, 8.40pm
Love it or loathe it, this steamy Aussie dating show is back for a sixth season of make-ups, breakups and shake-ups in the sun. Host Sophie Monk (pictured) welcomes 10 new Love Island villa, introducing them with a twist taken out of fellow reality series I Kissed a Boy’s handbook – before they couple up, the girls will be smooching the boys to put their chemistry to the test. Talk about a first impression! Irish star Eoghan McDermott is again in the narrator’s booth to commentate the contestants’ comings and goings – if you’re not drawn in by the series’ romance, eye candy or conflict, rest assured that his sassy asides will have you in stitches.
NITV News: Nula. 3.30 Lucknow. (PG, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Luke Nguyen’s India. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (PGav)
8.25 Castle Secrets. (Mav)
9.20 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 The Allegation. (MA15+a)
12.20 The Wall: Cover Your Tracks. (Mav, R) 3.40 Paddington Station 24/7. (MA15+l, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Colin Fassnidge shows how to make a pizza base.
8.30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie: The Mission. (PGl) Part 1 of 4. Follows Jamie Durie and his young family as they build their eco-friendly dream home.
9.30 Body In The Snow: The Murder Of Joanna Yeates. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 2. Examines the murder of landscape architect Joanna Yeates and the hunt for her killer.
12.00 GetOn Extra.
12.30 Taken. (Mav, R)
2.30 Home Shopping.
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
(62)
WEDNESDAY
LISTING MELBOURNE
NBN, 8.40pm
Located at the intersection of Selling Sunset and Luxe Listings Australia, this new homegrown reality series fills a gap in the market – letting viewers in on the conversations real estate agents have when we leave the room. In between showcasing opulent homes in the cosmopolitan Victorian capital’s most prestigious suburbs and signing multi-million dollar deals, buyers advocates Nicole Jacobs and Tabitha Robb (above, centre) take real estate agents Andrew Campbell, Diana Kozlowska and Fraser Lack to task. This week, Nicole celebrates a recent success, and the fallout from Tabitha’s podcast lingers. It’s hot property.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III. (PG, R)
8.40 MOVIE: Olympus Has Fallen. (2013, MA15+lv, R) A former agent must save the White House. Gerard Butler.
11.00 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival.
11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
Danger Man. 7.00 Creflo. 7.30 Skippy. 8.00
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 La Brea. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. Special guest is Jelena Dokic.
7.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa) The team helps a nurse and her husband. 8.45 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Panellists include Aisling Bea, Guy Montgomery, Celia Pacquola, Ed Kavalee and Sam Pang. 9.45 To Be Advised.
10.45 10’s Late News.
11.10 The Project. (R)
12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
SATURDAY, October 26
6.30 Back Roads: Nimmitabel, NSW. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Grantchester. (Mv) Alphy and Geordie probe the murder of an archaeologist and uncover a tangled web of betrayal.
8.20 Vera. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 4. Vera investigates after a physiotherapist is shot through the window of the house where she was staying.
9.50 Plum. (Madls, R) A footy player is diagnosed with a brain disorder.
10.45 Countdown To War. (R) Part 1 of 3. 11.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Dragon Ball Super. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG)
8.25 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. (R) 9.15 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (R)
10.10 So Long, Marianne. (MA15+)
11.10 Paris Paris. (Mls, R)
12.10 Rex In Rome. (Mv, R)
3.45 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. The team visits the world’s whitest beach.
7.30 MOVIE: The Woman King. (2022, Mav) An all-female unit fights to protect their kingdom. Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu. 10.20 MOVIE: Flatliners. (2017, Malsv, R) Elliot Page.
12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 11. Gold Coast 500. Day 1. Highlights.
1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 Larry The Wonder Pup. (R)
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. Pacific Championships. Week 2. Fiji v Cook Islands. 9.00 MOVIE: Edge Of Tomorrow. (2014, Mlv, R) After being sent on a suicide mission to battle an alien menace, a man finds himself reliving the same day. Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt.
11.15 MOVIE: Stargate. (1994, PGv, R)
1.30 Cross Court. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House. (PG, R) An 85-year-old is trying to decide who would make a better match: a stubborn beagle or shy Jack Russell. 7.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) Leroy Jethro Gibbs starts his career as part of the Naval Investigative Service operating out of Camp Pendleton. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Final
Countdown. Continued. (1980, PG) 7.35 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 10.00 Moonfall. (2022, M) 12.25pm Transcendence. (2014, M) 2.35 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 4.50 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 6.40 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 8.30 The Son. (2022, M) 10.45 Concussion. (2013, MA15+) 12.35am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, October 27
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG)
8.00 Fisk. (Ml)
8.30 Plum. (Mal) Plum’s ex-wife Renee tries to help him.
9.25 I Was Actually There: Boxing Day Tsunami. (Ma, R) Firsthand accounts of the Boxing Day Tsunami.
10.00 You Can’t Ask That. (Ml, R)
11.00 Miniseries: Marriage. (Ml, R)
12.00 Fires. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Choice 2024: Harris Vs Trump.
9.45 The VP Choice: Vance Vs Walz.
10.50 Devil’s Confession: Lost Eichmann Tapes. (MA15+avw, R)
11.50 Geoff Dixon: Portraits Of Us. (Ml, R)
1.25 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)
2.20 Babies: Their Wonderful World. (PGa, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 Al Jazeera News.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania: Transformania. (2022, PG) 8.50 MOVIE: Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase. (2019, PG) 10.15 Doctor Who. 11.35 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 11. Gold Coast 500. Day 1. Qualifying and support races. 3.30 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 11. Gold Coast 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race 21. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Storage Wars. 8.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Week 9. Essendon v Richmond. 10.15 MOVIE: Waterworld. (1995, M) 1am
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (Final) 9.05 7NEWS Spotlight.
10.05 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+adv, R) 11.30 Ant Middleton And Liam Payne: Straight Talking. (Mal) 12.30 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 11. Gold Coast 500. Day 2. Highlights. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 4.55 Scandinavian Star. 6.05 Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes In 12 Hours. 6.40 Mysteries From Above. 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Disaster Autopsy. 9.25 WWE Rivals. 12.10am
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Cheerful Weather For The Wedding. (2012, PG) 8.20 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 10.35 Bliss. (2021, M) 12.30pm The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 2.25 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 4.45 Meditation Park. (2017, PG) 6.35 Leap Year. (2010, PG) 8.30 Looking Glass. (2017, MA15+) 10.25 Tori And Lokita. (2022, M, French) Midnight Late Programs.
0418 259 449 E serena@cbea com au
7TWO (62) 7TWO
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.40 9News Late.
10.10 See No Evil: Night Caller. (Mal) A look at the murder of Jonathan Cherol.
The First 48. (Mav)
Bondi Vet. (PGm, R)
Fishing Australia. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Adele: A New Chapter. 3.45 MOVIE: Hating Alison Ashley. (2005, PG) 5.50 MOVIE: The Addams Family. (2019, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Addams Family 2. (2021, PG) 9.20 MOVIE: Hot Pursuit. (2015, M) 11.05 The O.C. 12.05am The Originals. 2.00 Adele: A New Chapter. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Power Players. 4.30 Pokémon: XYZ. 4.50 Late Programs.
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Under Siege 2. (1995, MA15+) 10.30 Chicago Med. 11.30 Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 1.45pm MOVIE: Pokémon: Giratina And The Sky Warrior. (2008) 3.45 MOVIE: Penguins Of Madagascar. (2014) 5.30 MOVIE: Monster Family 2. (2021, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Great Wall. (2016, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Hercules. (2014, M) 11.30 Gotham. 1.30am Love After Lockup. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Power Players. 4.30 Transformers: Cyberverse. 4.50 Late Programs.
With summer right around the corner, is now the perfect time to sell your property? We would love to discuss how we can help prepare you and your property for the summer market! Contact us today to begin your journey!
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Matilda And The Ramsay Bunch. 9.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Into The Amazon With Robson Green. (PGa)
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mls)
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (Mdls)
10.05 Have I Got News
For You U.S. (Mals)
10.55 SBS News. 11.25 Exterior Night. (Mav)
1.30 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R) 3.20 Paddington Station 24/7. (Ml, R) 4.10 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) It is round three of the competition.
9.10 The Rookie. (Mav) Aaron, Lopez, Celina, Tim and Smitty discover a surprising connection in their case. 10.10 S.W.A.T. (Mav) 11.10 The Latest: Seven News. 11.40 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGals) 12.40 Miniseries: Deadline Gallipoli. (MA15+av) 2.00 Home Shopping.
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Puppy! A Hotel Transylvania Short Film. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Doctor Who. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Monster Pets: A Hotel Transylvania Short Film. 7.35 Little Lunch Specials. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.15 BTN Newsbreak. 8.20 The Wonderful World Of Puppies. 9.05
THURSDAY,
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Ideal
Palace. Continued. (2018, PG, French) 7.00 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 9.10 The Lake House. (2006, PG) 11.00 War Hunt. (1962, M) 12.30pm Decision To Leave. (2022, M, Chinese) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.30 Sissi. (1955, German) 5.30 Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 7.30 Blow Dry. (2001, M) 9.10 Want You Back. (2022, M) 11.20 Viva. (2007, MA15+) 1.35am Strangerland. (2015, MA15+) 3.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R)
8.30 Lawrence Mooney: Embracing Your Limitations. (MA15+as) A performance by Lawrence Mooney.
10.00 Australia: Now And Then. (Madln, R) 11.00 The Latest: Seven News. 11.30 Chicago Fire. (Ma) 12.30 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping.
6am Basmati Blues. (2017, PG) 8.00 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 10.25 Rabbit Hole. (2010, M) 12.10pm The Father. (2020, M) 1.55 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 4.05 Wide Open Sky. (2015) 5.40 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 7.30 The Lawnmower Man. (1992, M) 10.10 Midsommar. (2019) 12.50am Hereditary. (2018, MA15+) 3.10 I Want You Back. (2022, M) 5.15 Wide Open Sky. (2015)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away.
7.30 Highway Patrol. (Return)
8.30 Australia’s Most Dangerous Prisoners. (MA15+av) Explores life behind bars.
9.30 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop: Jane Thurgood-Dove. (Mav, R) A look at the murder of Jane Thurgood-Dove.
10.35 The Latest: Seven News.
11.05 What The Killer Did Next. (Mav, R) 12.05 Magnum P.I. (Mav) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7MATE (64)
Parkrun Anniversary
worldwide.
Fostering a community spirit, participants don’t need to be an elite runner, just someone who wants to be active, social, “and enjoy the best start to the weekend”.
Mr Pitman said that parkrun is proud that its average times are getting slower, not faster.
“Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t go fast or try to get a personal best time.”
Last Saturday, at Urunga parkrun, seven people notched up a personal best time and others are striving to do so at future events.
the Alphabeteer (to do a parkrun in different locations starting with each letter of the alphabet), Stopwatch Bingo (collect each of the 60 numbers in the seconds part of your time) or Name Badge (complete a parkrun starting with each letter of your name), and many more.
“There are plenty of apps out there to help you keep track.”
Registration is free and valid at any parkrun in the world.
“You can come a lot, or a little,” Mr Pitman said.
“You can volunteer if you can’t run or walk, or just want to contribute to keeping parkrun going.
By Andrea FERRARI
URUNGA parkrun celebrated its seventh anniversary last Saturday with a “Seven Seas” themed event, complete with bunting, balloons, treats and happy parkrunners,
parkwalkers and volunteers.
“We had over 50 participants in our anniversary run with some dressing in the spirit of the theme,” spokesperson Eric Pitman told News Of The Area.
Since its inaugural run on 14 October, 2017, when 91 people participated, the Urunga parkrun course has been completed 12,191 times by 3576 different individuals.
Born in London’s Bushy Park in 2004, parkrun is a
free, weekly timed 5km event now in 22 countries.
Participants can run, jog, walk or complete a combination.
Every weekend, people join in one of the more than 2300 parkrun events
“In fact, in its seven-year history, there have been 1684 new personal bests set at Urunga parkrun.”
Over one million people worldwide have registered to participate in parkrun.
“You can enhance your participation by collecting an unofficial “challenge”, such as
“Urunga parkrun needs seven people every week to run the event.
“Over the last seven years, 289 individuals have volunteered, with some of them volunteering over 100 times each,” he said.
Urunga parkrun’s Facebook page features posts about its activities.
q Urunga parkrun participants Pim Heaney, Mili McLaughlin and Lyn McGuigan at the seventh anniversary run.
