Port Stephens News Of The Area 14 November 2024

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q Raymond Terrace rugby league golden girl Olivia Higgins helped the Jillaroos topple the Kiwi Ferns. Photo: AAP Image/Andrew Cornaga, via Photosport.

YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS NEWSPAPER

Experience Tanilba Bay's new interactive history trail

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inviting both residents and visitors to explore the area's rich history.

The Heritage and History Trail of Tanilba Bay, developed by the Port Stephens Family History Society, takes a modern, interactive approach to engaging visitors with the area's rich history.

Robyn Cragg, the President of the Port Stephens Family History Society, led the project with the support of a Port Stephens Council Community Funding Grant, and said the group is excited to see the new trail unveiled.

“This self-guided heritage and history trail provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our community's heritage and share its fascinating stories with future generations,” Ms Cragg said.

"The trail is designed to be interactive and engaging where visitors can step into the footprints of those who have shaped the narrative of Tanilba Bay, from its Indigenous roots to the European settlers.

“As visitors follow the trail, they’ll encounter landmarks such as Tanilba House, a historic residence with a rich history, and the convict-built walls that stand as a testament

to the area's early convict settlement,” Ms Cragg added.

Mayor Leah Anderson said the community-led project has reinvigorated the Tanilba Bay streets and neighbourhood.

“It’s been excellent to see the Port Stephens Family History Society bring this heritage trail to life, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of this coastal gem,” Mayor Anderson said.

Visitors can explore the seven kilometre trail on foot or by car.

The trail features 32 interactive sites with captivating images and informative YouTube videos, suitable for all ages.

At key locations along the trail, physical information boards on street signs and

posts contain a link and QR code to a website that details the historical significance of the site, building, or landmark.

Mayor Anderson encouraged both locals and visitors alike to plan a trip to Tanilba Bay and explore the Heritage and History Trail to learn more about the history and culture of the Port Stephens region.

“Tanilba Bay is an iconic town that holds a distinctive charm,” Mayor Anderson said.

“I also find it fascinating that the town’s street names follow an alliterative pattern with a couple of my favourites being Diggers Drive and Army Avenue, contributing to the town’s character and storytelling.”

Pacific Cup championship honours for local league legend Olivia Higgins history trail

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dummy half.

Higgins provided slick service to playmakers Tarryn Aiken and co-captain Ali Brigginshaw during her busy 50 minute stint at hooker for the world champions in

only her third international appearance.

The Jillaroos posted five tries to one in a top class performance with the crafty number nine cementing her spot in Australia’s top side.

After bowing out of the

NRLW finals series with the Newcastle Knights, rookie international Higgins has ended her 2024 campaign in style with the Pacific Cup championship winners medal.

The Jillaroos reigned supreme as they stamped

themselves as one of Australia’s greatest womens sporting teams.

They have won nine of their past ten Tests against the Kiwi Ferns and dominated this year’s Pacific Cup championship tournament –

racking up 122 points while conceding a mere four.

Higgins made every post a winner throughout the Cup series and at the age of 32 has consolidated her spot in the Jillaroos’ much vaunted forward pack.

Cres 16-2024-559-1 Alterations/additions to dwelling, change of use to group home – permanent

6 Sweet Nectar Cl 16-2024-549-1 Attached dual occupancy, 1 into 2 strata subdivision 25 Nut Bush Dr 16-2024-562-1

q A legacy of Henry F Halloran, the Tanilba Bay Land Gate. There are gates at both ends of the Avenue of the Allies – the Centenary Water Gate and arches, and the Land Gate.

National Park celebrates 40th anniversary

AROUND 85 people gathered on Sunday 3 November to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the gazetting of Tomaree National Park in November 1984.

Participants to the forum-style event included Port Stephens MP Kate Washington, Mayor Leah Anderson, councillors, Worimi Elders, National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) representatives, expert presenters, the Friends of Tomaree National Park and more.

NPWS led the forum’s development, in close partnership with FTNP and the National Parks Association (Hunter Branch).

Worimi Elder Uncle Neville Lilley provided a Welcome to Country in the Gathang language, before speakers covered various aspects of significance for the national park in their presentations.

“The wealth of informative presentations about why the national park is so important and special – from its Worimi heritage, military and maritime history, range of vegetation communities and their geological and water relations, the threatened species and the birds of Tomaree NP, to how the community is experiencing the park today and what’s happening in caring for the park – was certainly a deep and fascinating dive into Tomaree National Park,” said Sue Olsson, Coordinator, Friends of Tomaree National Park.

“As we listened to the stories and perspectives on what is so special about Tomaree National Park, I reflected with gratitude to those who had lobbied for the land to become a national park, and to the receptive NSW government in 1984 who recognised the value of a legacy for the future.”

q Community leaders and some Friends of Tomaree gather around a magnificent cake with an iconic headland depiction.

CORRECTION

NEWS Of The Area wishes to offer correction to information printed in our 7 November edition.

In the page 9 story, ‘Annual Pink Breakfast a great success’, Kerrie Cottrill was mistakenly labelled the president of the Tomaree Breast Cancer Support Group.

Kym Farr is the group’s President, while Kerrie is the Team Leader of the group’s Pink Breakfast Committee.

Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au

Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au

Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au

Jacie WHITFIELD 0411 556 079 jacie@newsofthearea.com.au

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

EDITOR

Tracey BENNETT 0484 263 558 tracey@newsofthearea.com.au

Arrest threat for protesters

CLIMATE protesters face arrest if they go ahead with plans to blockade the world's biggest coal port after the NSW Supreme Court backed police barring the action.

The court issued an order on Thursday deeming the planned protest at the Port of Newcastle from November 22 to 24 an unauthorised assembly after police moved to deny organisers a permit.

Hundreds of protesters were expected to take to the water in small craft for 30 hours, preventing access to the major coal export terminal.

More than 5000 people were expected to attend a simultaneous four-day "protestival" on land featuring live music, including a scheduled performance by former Midnight Oil frontman and federal environment minister Peter Garrett.

In his ruling, Justice Desmond Fagan said the impact of the blockade would be excessive, noting it went far beyond what those affected should be expected to tolerate in the name of legitimate protest.

The brunt would be felt by lawful commercial and recreational users of the port, he said.

"Whilst some inconvenience to nonparticipants must be accepted as an unavoidable concomitant of the rights of assembly and protest, the burden is usually slight and brief," he said.

The court also issued orders prohibiting the land-based protest, calling it "unheard of" for such an action to occupy public land for that length of time.

But police should not necessarily utilise their powers to break up the gathering if it occurred, Justice Fagan said.

"In the exercise of their judgement police may conclude that it is preferable to let the occupation of the park continue for the four

days provided the assembly remains orderly," he said.

The court ruling does not prevent the protest from going ahead, but those involved lose protection from arrest and prosecution if they block traffic.

Organisers have vowed to move ahead with what they called "the people's blockade".

"We do have a right to assemble on public land and water, we will be exercising that right," Rising Tide spokesman Zack Schofield said.

"I can't comment on exactly what the police will be doing. I hope they'll do their job and facilitate peaceful protest."

Organisers would work

with police to make the event as safe and accessible as possible, he added.

Justice Fagan had also raised concerns about the safety of the event and the ability of police to maintain order during a 30-hour protest on water.

He questioned whether it was wise to leave police without direct powers to break up the gathering if necessary, citing weather conditions and potential vessel accidents as "foreseeable risks".

Following the judgement, NSW Police repeated concerns about the safety of the protests.

"For their own safety and that of the other users of the port, we request that people who still attend this event refrain from entering the

harbour... with the intention to obstruct other users of the port, or engage in other forms of civil disobedience," a statement said.

NSW Council for Civil Liberties vice-president Lydia Shelly said police had created a perfect environment to enable the mass arrest of peaceful protesters by denying the application.

After initial pushback from police, organisers proposed a shorter 30-hour blockade rather than the original 50 hours, while also halving the time protesters would be camped in the area to four days.

Following a similar 30hour blockade in 2023, more than 100 people were arrested after refusing to exit the water when the approved protest ended.

q Rising Tide community organiser Zack Schofield speaks to media during a press conference Supreme Court.
Photo: AAP Image/Steven Saphore.

Citizens fight to save tree

A DISPUTE has arisen between the strata committee and owners of the Carindale apartment complex in Nelson Bay over the planned removal of a gum tree.

The tree, which is close to a building at the rear of the property, was determined to be a hazard and the strata committee decided the best course of action was to have it cut down.

Apartment owner Kimberley Scott, said the decision does not reflect the desire of all residents.

“The committee made the decision at one of their meetings and the minutes stated [that they] ‘agreed to remove a large gum tree’, with no other information given as to the specific tree or the reasons for its removal,” Mr Scott said.

“Most of us assumed that it was a different tree, one that is a potential problem, on the property boundary.”

Mr Scott contacted the secretary directly to seek clarification on the decision and was told the tree in question was in fact

a healthy and long standing one that, to his knowledge, had never before been considered as a problem.

By this stage however, the tree’s removal had already been scheduled by the committee and an arborist booked to bring it down.

Mr Scott said not enough time was given to discuss and dispute the committee's decision.

Fate intervened on the scheduled day when the crane malfunctioned and the contracted company was unable to complete the work.

The removal was rescheduled to Friday, 15 November, and Mr Scott has rallied his neighbours to plead with the committee to reconsider its decision.

The Chairman of the Strata Committee composed a communication which was sent to all owners by Precise Property, the company responsible for strata management.

“I want to affirm that both myself and the committee fully support the decision to remove the tree, which has been made with the safety of residents in mind,” the email stated.

“The reasons outlined

- risks from dropping branches, damage to property, and increased fire hazards - are significant concerns that we cannot overlook.”

In a return email, Mr Scott argued the tree’s branches “do not carry the same danger as a lot of other gums” and claimed there is “no likelihood of it catching fire and impacting the building”.

Mr Scott said the tree enriches the complex, offering shade and providing habitat for native birds and wildlife.

He has expressed concern regarding the limited recourse for he and like-minded owners to act for the tree’s preservation.

“Because it is within five metres of the rear building they don’t need to obtain approval to have it removed,” he said.

Another apartment owner, Brian Tehan, was equally bemused by the firerisk claims.

“The claim that it's a fire danger is someone having a joke, I presume?

“A lone tree in a block of flats certainly isn't a fire danger.

“Spending $7500 to cut down a beautiful Angophora for no good reason is a

waste of the funds and unnecessary waste of a significant tree.

“Just because you are able to cut down a tree without council permission doesn't mean that you should.”

Robert Trikka, another owner, said the “shade and tranquillity provided by the tree cannot be underestimated”.

In response to this feedback the committee has decided to postpone the removal once again.

Owners will now participate in a ballot to determine whether the majority support the original decision to have the tree cut down.

In the meantime Mr Scott has appealed directly to members of Port Stephens Council to lend support to the cause.

“Council’s indiscriminate and ruthless rule allows any tree, regardless of its magnificence, its ecological significance as part of a smaller or larger ecosystem, whether or not it is a home to birds and creatures alike, to be cut down without any checks or balances or real justification.

“This is criminal and needs to change.

“This tree is not

threatening life, limb nor building.

“It simply requires a bit of branch lopping to reduce a minimal amount of leaf and small branch matter from falling onto the roof.

“It is really a lack of maintenance issue.

“Are you able to do

something to have this 80-year-old, thriving, living magnificent tree live out its life way beyond ours?”

Precise Property and Port Stephens councillors were contacted but did not respond to requests for comment in time for publication.

native tree from residents. Photo: Matthew Spillard.

PORT STEPHENS ANIMAL REFUGE Meet Leah Anderson

PET OF THE MONTH

THIS IS RILEY Koolie x Kelpie

She has grown up with children and loves to play fetch. She is almost 2yrs old.

She has lived with other dogs but is dominant, has also lived with cats and rabbits.

She is a very active dog. Her adoption fee is $300.

Port Stephens Animal Refuge Address: 267B Woodberry Road, Millers Forest Phone: 0468 858 156

THIS week, News Of The Area speaks to newly elected Mayor of Port Stephens Council, Leah Anderson.

Who are you and where do you come from?

I’m Leah Anderson, the first popularly elected female Mayor of Port Stephens.

I'm a mum of two kids aged 21 and seventeen. I spent most of my life growing up in South West Sydney (Camden) before moving to Port Stephens almost 20 years ago.

My family and I love living here - it’s a beautiful part of the world.

I have a 35-year finance background, 25 years with Westpac Bank, and ten years running my own mortgage broking and financial planning business.

I’ve always been a very active community member, being a proud Rotarian for fifteen years and receiving the honour of a Paul Harris Fellow in 2023.

I’m a passionate community leader.

I founded and was President of Port Stephens Women in Business and served as Chair for many years, earning life membership.

I'm a dedicated koala carer, and I've also held leadership roles on the boards of Business Port Stephens, Destination Port Stephens, and Port Stephens Koala Hospital.

I’m proud to have been recognised for my contributions to our community in 2018, when I was named Port Stephens Woman of the Year and nominated for a Port Stephens Medal.

Was there a particular impetus for your involvement in local government? My interest in Local Government evolved when I was President of the Business Chamber and on the Board of Destination Port Stephens.

Through interactions with the Council, I became frustrated with what I felt was a lack of

Are you chasing somebody for payment of services you have provided, or money owed under a loan agreement?

If you are getting nowhere, depending on the amount owed to you, you can commence debt recovery proceedings in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court by filing a document called a “Statement of Claim”. If the debtor fails to file a defence to the claim or ignores the claim entirely, the Local Court will record a default judgment against them and you will then be entitled to pursue enforcement options such as an examination order, garnishee order or writ for the levy of property.

Be warned though – there are costs involved with debt recovery proceedings, and while these get added to the amount in question, it is not uncommon for the debtor to avoid paying in any way they can, including by changing their address or opening different bank accounts.

transparency and engagement.

I entered politics to play an active part in improving community satisfaction and engagement and be the driver of the change I wanted to see.

I’m passionate about the role of local government in promoting grass-roots democracy, being the closest level of government to the community.

By providing opportunities for the community to participate in decision-making, we empower them and foster a sense of ownership.

This collaborative approach leads to better outcomes that genuinely reflect the needs and aspirations of those involved.

What do you believe is the key to an effective Local Council?

I truly believe that when councillors work together, actively listen to and engage with our community, we’re doing the right thing and will be an effective council.

I’m excited to work alongside my fellow ten councillors, some of whom are just beginning their official duties.

They’re ready to hit the ground running and deliver on their priorities.

Having spent the last three years on Council, I know how challenging the role can be, but I also know how rewarding it can be.

I know that every one of our councillors wants to see the best possible outcomes for the community of Port Stephens.

Once things settle down and we can focus on everyone’s passions, it’ll be much easier to start working together for positive change, setting our Council's strategic direction, and ensuring the delivery of the Community Strategic Plan.

What unique qualities and/or perspective do you bring to Port Stephens Council?

Firstly, my 35 years of finance experience gives me a strong oversight of the Council's financial position.

My love for our Port

Stephens community ensures community engagement and involvement are at the forefront of everything we do.

For the zodiacally inclined, as a Libra, I embody the sign's traits of balance and diplomacy.

I carefully consider all sides of an issue before making a decision.

Do you feel there have been any particular demographics or issues under-represented? For the last three years, I’ve dedicated myself to serving East Ward as a Councillor, attending 100 percent of the meetings for the entire term.

I made myself available for as many community meetings as I could and worked hard to represent every community in East Ward.

Elected Deputy Mayor in 2023, I dedicated myself to serving the broader needs of the Port Stephens LGA.

By increasing my availability across all three Wards, I strive to ensure every community member feels heard and represented.

During my campaign, I spoke with hundreds of people across Port Stephens, and I have no doubt that financial sustainability, roads, housing, the environment, and support for those less fortunate are key

focus areas for residents and businesses.

Recognising these shared challenges and the distinct needs of each Ward, I’ll empower Ward Councillors to be active advocates for their communities.

As Mayor, I’ll support their efforts to listen, care, and deliver on the promises we made to our community.

What feeds your soul, or fuels your passion?

My family, my friends, and my community.

Is there anything you would like the wider community to better understand about their Council?

Before joining Council, I, like many others, may have had certain perceptions of those who worked in Local Government.

Since gaining an insider’s perspective, I’m truly impressed by the hard work and dedication of Port Stephens Council’s General Manager, Tim Crosdale, and all employees.

They consistently go above and beyond to deliver valuable services to our community, often with limited resources. I’m proud to be part of an organisation that is so committed to the wellbeing of our community.

q Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson. Photo: supplied

Revitalising Karuah

“CHANGE moves at the speed of trust.”

That was one of the key messages that came out of the recent 'Revitalise' workshop held at Karuah RSL.

The event, hosted by Port Stephens Council and the Karuah Progress Association (KPA), drew together representatives of seven councils and a number of community groups to learn about revitalising town centres, social spaces and natural habitats through a reimagined approach to volunteering and community engagement.

“People are in search of a way to contribute,” said Kendell Terrell, Town Team General Manager of Partnerships and Impact.

“When you give them permission to act, you unlock enormous potential.”

The Town Team movement is a non-profit social enterprise that inspires and enables action by changemakers in local communities and governments.

There are more than 150 local Town Teams in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Poland, each with their own unique success story. However there was

something special about the work of the Karuah Progress Association that drew the eye of the Town Team executive.

“Hearing about local people in Karuah making a difference is why we had to come here and see it,” said Terrell.

Workshop participants were treated to a tour of the riverside and main street of Karuah, learning about opportunities for revitalisation and seeing first-hand the improvements the KPA and its small band of passionate and committed volunteers have achieved in recent years, including the median strip planting along Tarean Road and the al-fresco dining area, planter boxes and ‘little library’ book nook outside the Anglican Church and town butchers and bakery.

“By working together with members from our community and volunteers from Karuah Progress, we have created a very special space that we can all use, share and connect in,” said Lisa Floyd, owner of the Riverside Motel and leader of the main street beautification projects.

“The Parklet area and Tarean Road Verge were identified for their ability to uplift, inspire and create a positive change,” she said.

“It’s exciting to hear that

the Revitalise participants are inspired and impressed by the efforts and the end result we achieved.”

Jo Taranto, MC of the event and founder of social enterprise consultancy Good for the Hood, said the kind of activation and engagement seen in Karuah is why she is excited about the role grassroots solutions play in strengthening the connection of communities.

“We’re really passionate about the role of active citizens in making places more connected and vibrant,” she said.

It was in her workshop session that Taranto spoke about the importance of building trust for change, highlighting how stories create more authentic and personal connections among community members.

Central to this message was the idea that communities are not just lines on a map or static spaces, but places of history, culture and connection.

Nowhere was this more evident than at the Welcome to Country event hosted by the Karuah Public School to open the workshop.

Featuring performances by the local Aboriginal dance troupe and songs sung in English, the local Gathang

FRIDAY

language and AUSLAN, the Welcome to Country was warmly offered by the school’s Junior AECG representative.

But it was School Principal Toni Lyle who particularly moved the group of workshop participants with her story of the history of Karuah Public School and the people who paved the way for the vibrant, inclusive and proud legacy the school is now creating.

“It makes me proud to live and work here,” said Chris Fraser, General Manager of Karuah RSL, who donated the use of their auditorium for the event.

“It’s testament to how a small group of determined and committed people can band together to create important and lasting change.

“These are the community activities and initiatives that Karuah RSL are proud to support.”

It’s this same sentiment at the heart of the Town Team movement.

“Everyone can make a contribution - either in a small or big way - to creating the change we want to see in the world,” said Dean Cracknell, Co-Founder of the Town Team Movement.

“Every action is important.”

President of the Karuah Progress Association, Breanna Landwehr, agrees.

“Anyone can do this work and there are dozens of other Karuah groups making their mark on our town.

“From our sports and rec teams offering social connections and increasing economic impact, to our amazing Oyster and Timber Festival committee who dedicate an entire year to a single event.

“We are stronger together for all the volunteers past and present that make our town thrive.”

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Supportive mentorship: Benefit from the guidance of experienced mentors who are dedicated to helping you succeed.

• Career development: Gain practical skills and qualifications that are highly valued in the job market.

• Community impact: Make a positive difference in your community by working on projects that improve local services and infrastructure.

Don’t wait! Take the first step and learn more at olg.nsw.gov.au/apprentice-trainee

q Breanna Landwehr (Karuah Progress Association), Kendell Terrell (Town Teams), Toni Lyle (Karuah Public School), and Worimi Elder Aunty Michelle Perry.

Cars, coffee and toys for Christmas

THERE is a well known expression about “boys and their toys.”

But members of Cars and Coffee in the Bay are determined to do everything they can to ensure that everyone has toys this Christmas.

On Sunday 17 November, the owners of classic, vintage and muscle cars will band together at Port Stephens Autobarn to collect donations of unwrapped toys for the 2024 Susan Roskell Toy Drive.

From 9am, group members will display some of their beautifully maintained cars while those who come along with donations can enjoy coffee and a BBQ, plus a discount if they happen to purchase from Autobarn that day.

This is the second time that they have run this initiative as the experience was one of the highlights of 2023.

“Last year I spent much time researching charities in an effort to find one that supports local families and local kids,” coordinator David Campbell said.

“This is when I first met Todd Sheldon and [discovered] the Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive.

“The toy drive was one

of the largest and most rewarding events we have held.

“Members brought a new toy or gift to be donated to the Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive. Its aim is to help disadvantaged children and families, particularly at Christmas.

“For myself, my wife and three sons, seeing the generosity of the Cars and Coffee group by filling the back of a ute with gifts was very special and uplifting for everyone involved in Cars and Coffee.”

David was inspired to found the group in November 2022 in response to what he saw as the unchanging crisis in men’s mental health.

“As a paramedic with over 34 years experience in the emergency services on two continents, I have seen and dealt with increasing numbers of mental health emergencies.

“Men in particular, due to traditional masculine ideals that emphasise self-reliance and emotional stoicism, are particularly susceptible to a decline in mental health with often nowhere to turn.

“Sadly, of the 3000 lives lots to suicide each year, 75 percent of those are men.

“Traditional methods do not seem to be changing these figures, so I thought let's try

something new.”

Todd Sheldon, who operates the Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive, says that the partnership with Cars and Coffee embodies everything that he is keen to support.

“Our organisation is all about being there for the local community.

“We partner with groups and organisations that operate in and for their local communities.”

The group, now running its ninth consecutive Christmas drive, is named after Todd’s inspirational mother, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2021.

“Our main focus has always been families affected by domestic violence and this will always be very important.

“This year, we will be broadening our support to include families affected by mental health [issues] and to provide support to families that have stepped up to take care of children in the event that mum and or dad are unable.”

“It is heartening to see that with every year, the support from the community and small businesses has grown, which enables us to support the ever-increasing number of families that are seeking support and assistance.”

Jupiter merges with KYDS

FOLLOWING a somewhat tumultuous year in which there were significant concerns about ongoing funding, Jupiter in Port Stephens has not only managed to carry on its vital services for youth in the region, it has now established a firm partnership that will make it easier to keep going.

Operations Manager for Jupiter Avril Saunders, announced the partnership on Tuesday, 5 November.

“After years of collaboration, we are officially merging with KYDS Youth Counselling, a leading organisation providing over 10,000 counselling services to young people each year,” she said.

“This merger strengthens our foundation, expands

our capacity, and ensures we continue to provide vital mental health support to young people in our region.”

Jupiter was birthed in March 2019 as an initiative of the Caring for Our Port Stephens Youth (COPSY).

It provides a space for young people to receive counselling and support, without cost.

COPSY has provided oversight for Jupiter since its inception and will continue to have significant involvement as a sub-committee of the new managing organisation, KYDS Youth Counselling.

“One of our board members was involved in KYDS and they helped form a relationship from our early days,” Avril said.

“It has always been great to have advice and support from a group like that which

had been operating a bit longer.”

As a non-profit, donationbased service, Jupiter has always operated close to the line in financial terms.

This became especially difficult earlier this year when they faced the prospect of being forced to withdraw services due to lack of funding. While a generous donation enabled them to continue, the situation highlighted the difficulties faced by being a smaller, community-based service.

“With Jupiter now under the umbrella of KYDS there is just a lot more opportunity to access grants and funding that we have not had before.

“That means that we can focus more on what we can do for our youth, rather than worrying about whether we can afford it.”

q Cars and Coffee in the Bay at last year’s toys drive.
Photo: Facebook.

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Drilling begins on east coast high-speed rail route

RAIL passengers keen to travel across the Australian east coast in record time could be one step closer as preliminary drilling begins to determine the high-speed rail route.

The long-anticipated east coast rail project is set to connect Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and regional communities in between.

Drilling has begun on the NSW Central Coast to determine the route of the first stage of the project, to connect Newcastle to Sydney.

Two drill rigs were set up last Monday on the Hawkesbury River and at Brisbane Water in Gosford,

with plans to drill six boreholes up to a depth of 140 metres.

They will collect rock and sediment samples to inform the design and depth of potential rail tunnels.

About 27 boreholes will be dug across the Sydney to Newcastle region, backed by the federal government's HighSpeed Rail Authority.

The government has committed $500 million for the planning and corridor protection of the first stage of the project.

The long-term infrastructure project would ultimately allow passengers to travel between major cities and significant regional cities at more than 250km/h.

Transport Minister Catherine King said the project

would help shape the nation.

"High-speed rail means generations of new opportunities for regional Australia, creating more jobs in more locations and giving people greater choices in where they live, work, study and play," she said.

High-Speed Rail Authority chief executive Tim Parker said the project would deliver quick, comfortable and reliable journeys.

"Right now, we're working on how to build a new railway in complex areas and the engineering challenges we would face," he said.

The business case for the Newcastle to Sydney stage is due at the end of the year.

Call for clubs, bosses to treat deadly cancer seriously

HAVING escaped a neardeath experience, Anne Gately is keenly aware of the damage the sun can do to Australians.

So the stage-four melanoma survivor is not content with the lukewarm approach adopted by too many businesses and sporting clubs.

"As a culture, I believe we're not really aware of this issue that the sun is causing," the mother-of-two told AAP.

"Sure, we all have a role to play to protect ourselves.

"But there are a lot of circumstances when we're in an organised environment like sport... or in workplaces where there's not enough regard for protecting people from the sun."

That includes in cricket, where data suggests many players lack access to shade and workplaces where sun protective equipment garners less focus than wet-weather gear.

The danger is crystal clear to the advertising and marketing leader, whose pain from a suspected gym injury six years ago was later identified as stage-four

melanoma.

"It was in my bones and I was basically riddled with it," she said.

"I was told the historical prognosis of my diagnosis was about 12 to 24 months."

Fortunately for Ms Gately, she is among rare cases of advanced melanoma to respond to immunotherapy treatment.

But one of Australia's deadliest cancers still claims more than 1300 lives a year, more than the national road toll in 2023.

About 18,000 people are diagnosed each year, with those in Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia

and NSW most at risk.

Data released last week shows NSW's hotspots centre on the sun-soaked north coast and regional areas.

The Port Stephens LGA ranks 13th in NSW for melanoma incidence rates, with the MidCoast in 15th, Lake Macquarie 16th and Newcastle 25th.

Byron Shire has risen to third place while neighbour Ballina leads the pack for melanoma rates adjusted for population.

More than one in 1000 people living in the top-five areas are expected to be diagnosed in 2024.

"Australia has one of

the highest skin cancer rates in the world and as a community it's imperative we take the threat of skin cancer seriously and follow the simple, life-saving steps needed to reduce our risk of this deadly disease," NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said.

Cancer Institute NSW says people should think about sun exposure whether they're going to the beach, for a walk or hanging the washing.

The most effective defence is to wear protective clothing, SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses, and to seek shade.

Investment in school facilities

SCHOOLS in the Port Stephens electorate will benefit from a $2 million investment in facility maintenance and improvements in 2024-2025.

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said the funding will ensure that educational facilities are safe, modern, and conducive to high-quality learning.

Tomaree High School will receive a comprehensive upgrade of its toilet facilities, along with a replacement of the N Block roof and additional refurbishment of existing toilets.

Irrawang High School will benefit from a complete refurbishment of its Home Economics kitchen, transforming it into a state-ofthe-art commercial kitchen.

Shoal Bay Public School

is set to receive covered walkways, enhancing safety and accessibility for students and staff.

Wirreanda Public School will have toilets upgraded to meet modern standards.

Salt Ash Public School will have a new roof installed, ensuring a safe and secure environment for learning.

Anna Bay Public School will undergo refurbishment of decks to improve facilities.

Tanilba Bay Public School will see enhancements, including practical activities areas refurbishment, new carpeting, and sliding doors.

Medowie Public School will have internal painting completed in two classrooms, freshening up the learning environment.

“It's exciting to see

significant investment in our local public schools right across Port Stephens,” Ms Washington said.

"This investment is about more than just buildings; it’s about creating the best possible learning environments for our children.

“Every dollar we invest in our schools is an investment in the future of our communities.

“Our kids deserve nothing less."

These new maintenance projects are in addition to the new Medowie Public High School project, as well as the significant upgrades already well underway at both Hunter River High School and Irrawang High School.

Medowie-Williamtown
q The east coast high-speed rail project will connect Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Photo: supplied.
q Anne Gately's body was riddled with cancer before immunotherapy treatment. Photo: supplied/AAP

Rotary hosting key events

THE Rotary Club of Raymond Terrace will play a key role in two major events later this month.

Rotary, in partnership with the Hunter Port Stephens Police District, will host a domestic violence awareness event on Friday, 29 November.

The event will take place on William Street from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Representatives from Council, Rotary, Police, and the Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Service will speak on various aspects of domestic violence in our community.

Attendees can visit information stalls and enjoy a free sausage sandwich.

On Saturday, 30 November, Terrace Central and Panthera, in partnership with Rotary, will host the annual Terrace Central Christmas Community Day.

q The annual Terrace Central Christmas Community Day will be held on 30 November.

Funding for East Seaham memorial

PORT Stephens Council will receive $12,672.00 for conservation works to the Knitting Circle Memorial at East Seaham.

The Knitting Circle Memorial features a ten metre-high flagpole accompanied by a low wall displaying a marble plaque dedicated to “the boys who enlisted from Seaham” in World War One.

Plans include repairs to the flagpole, replacement of the timber fence and treatment of the memorial stone.

war memorials across the state during Round 1 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund.

“Our communities are proud of their military history, and it is wonderful to announce this funding for local war memorials across the state,” Minister Harris said.

“Ensuring they are supported with appropriate conservation and upkeep will help us to continue to reflect on over 100 years of service and sacrifice by our veterans.

This festive event will be held in the car park at the corner of Glenelg Street and Sturgeon Street in Raymond Terrace from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Highlights of the day include a Santa Claus parade, market stalls, free rides for kids, and photos with Santa. Attendees can also buy

raffle tickets for a chance to win a hamper of goods from Terrace Central shopping centre businesses.

“The raffle will be drawn at 2:00 pm, with all funds supporting Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood

Services’ domestic violence programs,” said Rotary Club President Adam Nicholas.

For further information, please contact Mr Nicholas on 0432 187 010 or email rotaryrtevents@gmail.com.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

EACH week more students are rewarded for their positive impact in society and at school through the Raymond Terrace Community Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) program.

Grahamstown Public School is an enthusiastic member of the program.

“During our PBL journey in 2024, we have revamped our processes ensuring all students are reaching high expectations in our PBL values of respect, personal best and safety in all settings,” said Megan and Katrina, the PBL coordinators for Grahamstown Public School.

“We have celebrated student success throughout uniform days, movie sessions, crazy hair and sock days and fundraising events.

“Last week, our stage 3 students successfully organised and ran a colour run which raised money for the school.

“We are always on the lookout for students who are doing their best and love to get together and celebrate our wonderful kids with reward activities.”

Recent award winners include:

• Irrawang Public School’s Dixie shows respect to everyone, everywhere she goes. She was nominated for her delightful manners and being helpful at the shops.

• While on school camp Jackson from Raymond

Terrace Public School went out of his way to leave venues in a better state than he found them. He picked up rubbish that the public had left behind and encouraged others to help him, showing excellent leadership.

• Grahamstown Public School’s Kyson is an amazing junior leader and role model who always strives to do his best. During an Olympic sporting event, Kyson cheered on his peers and encouraged them to try their best.

• Amber represents

Irrawang High School as a school based trainee with Hunter New England Health and also recently represented the school on the annual CAPA tour, where she was outstanding as a leader and support for her younger peers on a nine day trip.

• Xzavier from Hunter River High School has been nominated for consistently participating in the Student Representative Council (SRC). He has been recognised for dedication to planning

and contributing to fundraising events, and outstanding leadership within the SRC.

• Salt Ash Public School’s Tylor is a helpful student who always offers support to younger students and assists teachers when needed.

• Medowie Public School’s Maybelle is an empathetic and caring student. She has supported a younger student to settle into the school setting, greeting them at the start of the school day and being a buddy one day a week at lunch and recess

The grant is part of $128,358 in NSW Government funding announced by Minister for Veterans David Harris for the care and upkeep of 15

“I encourage all communities to review the status of their local war memorials and to apply for funding for any restoration work that is needed.”

time. During break times she has been an exemplary role model, demonstrating school expectations.

• Seaham Public School student Jaiden received his award for taking on the role of bus monitor on the East Seaham bus and supporting other students. He observes

and reports any issues, ensuring the safety of all.

• Karuah Public School’s Jharel is nominated for finding some money in the playground that two kindergarten students had lost. Jharel spent his whole break time trying to locate the kindergarten students and reunite them with their lost money.

q Award winners receiving recognition at a recent ceremony at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace.

q The plaque at the Knitting Circle Memorial.

Shorebirds exhibition

NELSON Bay’s Artisan Collective is hosting a combined exhibition from three artists on the theme of shorebirds.

It coincides with the 30th anniversary of the signing of a Sister Cities Wetlands Agreement between the councils of Kushiro in Japan, Newcastle and Port Stephens.

The exhibition, featuring artists Alison Ellis, Greg Salter and Maria Hine, celebrates the combined councils agreement to protect our fragile wetland environments.

Port Stephens Sister Cities Committee, a volunteer committee of Port Stephens Council, is responsible for the planning of this anniversary project and the Artisan

Collective has been working with them to organise the exhibition.

Alison Ellis is an artist living in Sydney who completed her Bachelor of Natural History Illustration with honours in 2018 at Newcastle University.

All aspects of the natural world interest the artist but in her honours year she concentrated on the epic international journeys of Australia’s migratory shorebird species, especially the birds that visit the Hunter region over the austral summer.

Heavily featured in the exhibition, the Latham’s snipe only breeds from Kushiro and some regions of Japan and flies to Australian shores, feeding and resting until it is time to return to Japan.

“The Latham’s snipe is one of the most difficult shorebirds to see, preferring

to hide in thick vegetation near water,” Alison said.

“Habitat loss is the biggest but not the only threat to this species' survival.

“The pen and ink backgrounds are to highlight habitats of the different species, and that their loss is existential for the birds.”

Greg Salter has participated in numerous exhibitions and completed many commissions spanning painting, drawing and indoor and outdoor sculpture.

His work has been included in exhibitions at the Maitland City Art Gallery and the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery as well as various commercial galleries.

Amongst his many awards, he has won the Hunter Botanic Gardens Outdoor Sculpture Prize in 2011 and 2013, the 2011 Newcastle Region Show Sculpture Prize and the 2013 Nelson Bay Sculpture Festival

Acquisitive Prize.

"One of my earliest memories of the Nelson Bay area is when I was in Cubs at the age of nine or ten,” Greg said.

“Our troupe were camping not far from the beach, and before it got dark we all went down to the shoreline as we were told the soldier crabs would come out soon.

“At the start a few came out of the sand, then all at once, thousands of them covered the beach.

“I couldn’t take a step without stepping on one, so I just stood and watched as they swarmed around me and headed to the water.

“After being asked to be part of this exhibition, I just had to make crabs, as the exoskeleton lends so well to using the reclaimed steel.

“I have enjoyed assembling each one, letting the pieces of steel that I find decide how each one will come together."

NOVEMBER - WHITE RIBBON DAY

Tackling violence and abuse

THE guiding vision of White Ribbon Australia is a nation where every woman is free from all forms of men’s violence and abuse.

White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement engaging men and boys to see this violence as their problem to fix, not women’s problem to tolerate.

“We’re starting a

conversation to reduce future incidences of violence, promote gender equality and start building positive relationships based on respect,” a White Ribbon spokesperson said.

“Our Primary Prevention approach is evidence-based and supported by national and international research.

“It is the framework we

use to educate communities, schools and workplaces across the country.”

Through their programs and campaigns, White Ribbon Australia engages with men and boys to be part of the solution, not the problem.

“By becoming an active part of the social change, we want them to see just how helpful they can be in putting

a stop to violence against women for good.”

A lot of men share the belief that violence against women and children is unacceptable, yet sadly the issue still has huge prevalence throughout the country.

White Ribbon Australia invites men to step up, speak out and be part of the change.

“Australia needs men and

boys to join us in making a lasting change in attitudes and behaviours.

“Men speaking to other men about violence against women is a powerful catalyst for change, and mobilising men is a powerful tool in ending men’s violence against women.

“It’s a complex issue, and we provide the opportunity

Maria Hine has been making sculptures for many years, however driftwood is new for her.

“Living in Port Stephens with its surrounding beaches, I started to collect driftwood and became fascinated by the way it is modified by weather, the ocean and natural elements.

“I have become personally attached to these works, especially finding the perfect piece for my subject in carving those special birds from wetlands that are threatened by coastal developments and climate change."

The Shorebirds exhibition is being displayed in the Artisan Collective, D’albora Marina in Nelson Bay, throughout November daily between 9am and 5pm.

for both men and boys to constructively discuss what contributes to and behaviours that ultimately lead to violence.”

White Ribbon Australia collaborates with the community through education, awarenessraising, creative campaigns, and preventative programs within a Primary Prevention framework.

q Alison Ellis uses watercolours on archival paper
q Greg Salter uses up-cycled metal parts
q Maria Hine’s driftwood carving of a Latham’s snipe

SALAMANDER

• Welcome to a spacious home perfect for family living and entertaining.

• The home includes four bedrooms, each with built-in wardrobes, and a main bedroom featuring a walk-in robe and ensuite.

• Multiple living areas provide plenty of space, including a formal lounge, family room, rumpus, and formal dining.

• Enjoy the expansive covered entertaining area overlooking a level yard, ideal for children, pets, or a future pool.

• Two separate driveways lead to a double garage and a carport, perfect for boats, caravans, or a tradesperson’s trailer.

• Ducted air-conditioning.

• Conveniently located near schools, shopping, beaches, and public transport.

• Situated opposite a bushland reserve, with glimpses of sparkling water at Salamander Bay.

• Salamander Bay offers the perfect blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience for families and retirees alike.

BAY

ON POINT WITH STYLE & SPACE

• Beautifully renovated 4-bedroom family home – freshly updated and ready for you!

• Brand new carpet & stylish floating floors – a fresh modern feel throughout.

• Gourmet kitchen with stone benchtops – perfect for cooking and entertaining.

• LED lighting, ceiling fans & fresh blinds – every detail updated for comfort and style.

• New front fence & double gates – enjoy added privacy and security.

• Generous 600m² block with two living areas – ideal for family living and entertaining.

• Prime location near Anna Bay shops, schools, and Birubi Beach –close to everything you need!

• Exceptional two-bedroom unit now on the market, perfect for your summer getaway.

• Located directly in front of the stunning Shoal Bay Beach.

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and beautiful Port Stephens waterfront.

• Just a short stroll to the sandy shores.

• Nestled in the peaceful “Little Beach” neighborhood.

• A unique property that rarely comes available.

• Includes reverse cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort.

• Brand new shutters throughout for added style and privacy.

• Open plan kitchen, living, and dining area, plus spacious bedrooms with built-in robes.

• Large undercover garage, additional parking space, and lock-up storage area.

Quiet holidays await

522/61 Dowling Street, Nelson Bay

2 Bed, 1 Bath, 1 Car

Price: $340,000

THIS unit is in the most peaceful location within the ever popular Landmark building.

Sited on the top floor with easterly bushland views, enjoy all the benefits of holidaying in this thriving holiday resort whilst feeling a million miles away from the many varied activities that this building possesses.

With two bedrooms, spacious bathroom, and very functional lounge, dining and kitchen, the unit also benefits from a balcony to enjoy the local tranquillity.

The resort features a beautiful swimming pool

with wading area, spa, observation deck (ideal for reading that novel you've been holding on to), sauna, parking and professional and friendly on-site managers.

A recommended renovation would see the unit benefit from a steady stream of holiday income potential.

The building adjoins the Nelson Bay Tennis Courts, Nelson Bay Golf Club and Nelson Bay Bowling Club, giving you a vast array of local activities and eateries within easy reach.

The coastal hub of Nelson Bay town centre is just a few minute’s walk down the street where you will find an abundance of shopping and dining pleasures as well as the marina for all of your boating desires.

In all, a great holiday unit, somewhere to relax and enjoy some well earned time away from the

everyday.

Please call Nelson Bay Real Estate on 0249 812655.

Open seven days.

OUTLETS

Where you can pick up your paper

If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us.

media@newsofthearea.com.au

Anna Bay Tavern

Anna Bay Bakery

BYO Cellars Anna Bay

Ingenia Holiday Park

Middle Rock Retirement Village

Anna Bay Village

Seawinds Village

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Woolworths Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay Newsagent

Nelson Bay Real Estate

Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay

Seabreeze Hotel

Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre

Tackleword Port Stephens

Essence Cafe

Dolphin Watch Cafe

West Diggers

Harbourside Haven

Bernie Thompson Village

Shoal Bay Pharmacy

IGA Shoal Bay

John Patterson

Bill King Aged Care

Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay

Kreative Space Studio Fingal Bay

Regis Aged Care

Corlette Store

Uniting Care

Homestead Village

Sandy Shores

Big4 Soldiers Point

Soldiers Point Bowling Club

Foodworks Salamander Bay

Wanda Beach Pharmacy

Mobil Salamander Bay

Caltex Salamander Bay

Coles Salamander Bay

Natural Tucker

Woolworths Salamander Bay

Horizons Golf Club

Sunrise Lifestyle Resort

Seaham General Store

Opal Aged Care

Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace

Angeez Takeaway Raymond Terrace

Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace

Terrace Central Plaza Post Office

Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza

Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza

MarketPlace Woolworths

Raymond Terrace Shell

Raymond Terrace Library

Lakeside Newsagent

R&R Property

Foodworks Lakeside

Lakeside Leisure Centre

Muree Golf Club

Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash

Tanilba Bay Nursing Home

Tanilba Bay Retirement Units

Coles Tanilba Bay

Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay

Tanilba Newsagent

Post Office Tanilba Bay

Blue Marine Services

Chemist Lemon Tree

Club Lemon Tree

Tilligerry RSL

Tilligerry Real Estate

Coles Medowie

7-Eleven Medowie

Medowie Newsagent

Medowie Pharmacy

Woolworths Medowie

Medowie Social

Medowie Football Club

BP Servo Medowie

Pacific Dunes Golf Club

Metro Servo (Airport Side)

Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)

The Big Screen

AS CHRISTMAS draws nearer we find ever more movies looking to occupy a special place in the family living room.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever comes from director Dallas Jenkins, who is known for his work bringing the surprisingly successful series “The Chosen” to the small screen.

A filmmaker completely at ease presenting a devoutly Christian faith in his work, Jenkins is a good fit for this adaptation from a wellknown children’s book which is about people “discovering the true meaning of Christmas.”

Grace Bradley (Judy Greer) has volunteered to direct the titular Christmas play for her local church, when the Herdmen kids, six misfit siblings notorious in the community, bully their way into the lead roles.

As they learn the nativity story for the first time in their lives, the Herdmen kids challenge the hypocrisy and prejudice of those in the community that want nothing to do with them.

This is being pitched as a family comedy with a heart, and while I am often sceptical about overtly religious films, I am intrigued by the presence of comedian Pete Holmes as Grace’s husband.

It's unlikely to become part of the “Christmas movie canon”, but if it actually brings the laughs

it is probably worth taking a chance.

Eschewing the religious angle almost completely is Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point, a boisterous family comedy from Tyler Thomas Taormina.

The Balsano family have gathered for their annual Christmas at their ancestral home, but must contend with the fact that due to their matriarch’s declining health, it may well be for the last time.

While the responsible parents want to make it an occasion to remember, several of the younger clan are determined to escape for their own celebrations with friends around town.

Taormina’s approach to films seems to be about exploring how large groups of people respond to a common event, and this film maintains that heart as the Balsano’s are a very large family.

Honestly, with the size of the cast it is simply too

Nelson Bay Croquet Club

SPORT

TEN members travelled to Gloucester for the two-day Golf Croquet Carnival: Faby and Rob Batho, Rae and Trevor Black, Chris Cox, Peter and Sherry Gordon, Karen Lilly, Rosemary Taylor and Rae Uptin.

In Block B, Rob Batho (playing with Najette Scerri, Maitland), Faby Batho (playing with Jamie McIntyre, Toronto) and Karen Lilly & Rae Uptin finished joint 1st with 3 wins each from 4 games with Rob & Najette placed 1st on hoop count-back.

In Block C, Rosemary Taylor (playing with Peter Cousins, Maitland) finished runner-up. A great carnival with an excellent showing from the Nelson Bay players.

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

RESULTS from a stableford competition played at Easts Leisure, (Maitland GC) on Monday 4th November with 43 players.

Nett Winner : Fred Rimoni, 40pts c/b. Nett Runner Up : Shayne Mullarvey, 40pts. Bonus Point Winner : Tony Care, 42pts.

Bonus Point Runner Up : Wal Hutchinson, 40pts.q

Nearest the Pin, 5th Hole : Div 1 : Graham Woolley.

Div 2 : Col Kerrison.

Nearest the Pin, 17th Hole, : Div 1 : John Hogan. Div 2 : Kel Dorney.

Drive & Chip, 3rd Hole, Div 1 : John Evans. Div 2 : Frank Vandruten.

Drive & Chip, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Kevin Stewart.

Div 2 : Dave Hurley.

Ball Winners : John Hogan 38pts, Frank Vandruten 38pts, Brian Marshall 38pts, Bruce Arndell 38pts, Phil Sherwood 37pts, Bob Sellick 36pts, Gary Watt 36pts, David Middlebrook

difficult to try and single out the few who are going to truly shine – you just need to trust in the notion of putting a lot of funny people in front of a camera.

Sentimental but not Christmas-themed is Memory, a delayed release from 2023 starring Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard, written and directed by Michel Franco.

Chastain plays Sylvia, a single mother and recovering alcoholic who encounters Saul (Sarsgaard) at a high school reunion she is none too keen on attending.

Things threaten to get creepy when Saul follows her home and then falls asleep outside her front door, but the discovery that he has early onset dementia opens the door to a new relationship and connection that may change both of their lives.

The film tackles themes of isolation, family, mental health and abuse, so it’s not a light-hearted affair.

The central performances have been deservedly praised and contribute to a film that

will stay with you long after the credits have finished.

Finally, what at one time might have been the biggest blockbuster of the year, Gladiator II comes to cinemas everywhere.

Ridley Scott brings this sequel to his epic film from 2000 which garnered Russell Crowe an Oscar.

This time the focus is on Lucius Veras (Paul Mescal), the boy played by Spencer Treat Clark in the original, who it turns out was Maximus’ son all along.

In a complete retread of the events of the first film, Lucius finds himself betrayed by shifty Roman rulers, loses his family, is sold into slavery and ultimately becomes a gladiator hoping to fight back against a corrupt regime.

Supporting turns from Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen and Pedro Pascal make it clear that this was an expensive exercise.

Whether it has anything fresh to bring is up for question.

q Nelson Bay contingent Chris Cox, Karen Lilly, Sherry Gordon, Rae Uptin, Peter Gordon, Faby Batho, Rob Batho, Trevor Black, Rosemary Taylor and Rae Black.

Muree Golf Results

SATURDAY 12th Oct. 3rd

Round Championships

A Grade

1. Ben J Sullivan 67C/B

2. Craig Waanders 67

3. Gregory Harding 71

B Grade

1. Peter Saunderson 67

2. Steve Jones 69

3. Scott Bullen 70

C Grade

1. Andrew Adam 67 2. Robert Jones 68 3. Kenneth Austin 70

Pro Pin Jarrod Marks Wednesday 30th Oct. Medley Stableford. A Grade

1. Daran Emmett 38C/B

2. Tim Messenger 38 3. Harry G Marshall 35 B Grade

1. Mark Maddock 38C/B

2. Ray Harding 38C/B

3. Peter Andrews 38 C Grade

1. Dennis Godwin 38

2. Kenneth Austin 36C/B

3. Chris Stefanides 36

2BBB Ronald Bunting/ Tim Messenger 45 Pro Pin William J Jones

SATURDAY 2nd Nov. 4th Round Championships. Gross Scores. A Grade 1. Mathew Dorney 71 B Grade 1. Kyle Single 87 C Grade

1. Ross Picot 95 Pro Pin Grahame Bremmell Wednesday 6th Nov. Medley Stableford. A Grade

1. Colin Lorimer 38C/B 2. Steven Shearer 38 3. Mark Hope 36 B Grade

1. Peter Saunderson 37 2. Peter Botha 36C/B 3. Raymond Winsor 36 C Grade

1. Michael Cumming 40 2. Marc Newman 37

3. Stephen Davison 36

2BBB Alan Bland/ Eric Sanders 45 Pro Pin George Vlatko

From the Mayor’s desk

LAST Friday, I attended the 2024 Developers Forum held at Pacific Dunes, Medowie. Hosted by Port Stephens Council, the forum brought together over 60 representatives from the planning and development sector to discuss housing solutions for Port Stephens. We’re facing a big challenge as our population is expected to grow by over 20,000 people in the next 20 years.

With continued investment in our region, as well as the expansion of the Newcastle Airport, Port Stephens is becoming an even more attractive place to call home.

To meet our future growth, we’re striving to meet the State Government’s forecast housing demand of 11,000 new dwellings over the next 20 years.

Our forecasts show that without actively looking for new housing opportunities, we’d only deliver 7,000 new dwellings, leaving a shortfall of 4,000.

This theme of this year’s forum, ‘Unlocking Housing’, focused on tackling this shortfall by working together to meet the housing needs of current and future generations.

With limited opportunity for new housing developments, discussions centred on creating a diverse housing mix, so that people in our community can live near the services they need, family and friends.

Participants heard about efforts to make housing more affordable and opportunities to identify additional land for housing.

There was also a strong focus on planning for local infrastructure like roads, health services, schools, drainage and public spaces to support our growing community.

Council’s Development Control Plan (DCP) which is under review was discussed.

It guides development and will be launched in a digitised format making it more user friendly.

The forum also highlighted tips when submitting Development Applications (DA’s) including biodiversity and the natural environment, water quality and stormwater management requirements.

We also heard industry perspectives, with Elizabeth York from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) presenting as a guest speaker, sharing insights on the challenges of delivering infill development such as townhouses, villas and apartments.

We are facing a critical point in time, where the actions and decisions we make now will shape the future of Port Stephens for years to come.

We’re committed to delivering a range of housing options that will foster a sustainable, vibrant community now and into the future.

Read more about housing in Port Stephens at pscouncil.info/housing

Cricket Club has returned to the winners list in the Newcastle District Cricket Gilmour Cup Masters Twenty20 competition.

Another unbeaten half century by hotshot opener

Luke Thomas steered the Pythons to a seven wicket triumph over Maryland Fletcher in a fourth round fixture at King Park.

The nuclear option

DEAR News Of The Area,

BEFORE we become too starry eyed about nuclear energy, a bit of information for the proponents of nuclear power for Australia, including a recent regular correspondent.

Let's look at what is happening in Finland, the United States, the United Kingdom and France and, of course, Ontario, which Peter Dutton has used as an example: Olkioluto 3, Flammanville 3, Hinkley Point C and Vogtle, the four most recent plants completed or nearing completion. Cost overruns at these plants average 300 percent.

Vogtle went from $A22 Billion to $A53 Billion.

Flammanville from $A5 Billion to $A31 Billion.

Hinkley Point from $A30 to $A132 Billion.

Vogtle has been delayed by seven years.

Oikiolutu by 14 years, Flammanville by at least 12 years.

A fifth plant in the US, Virgil C, was abandoned after $A14 Billion had been spent.

All three companies building these five plants, Westinghouse, EDF and AREVA went bankrupt or were nationalised so that taxpayers now have to bear the cost for decades to come.

Ontario: between 2002 and 2015 costs of electricity produced by nuclear power rose by 60 percent.

The power stations built in

Thomas cracked a power-laden 67 not out from 49 deliveries with nine boundaries and two sixes as the Pythons (3-120) eclipsed their rivals (119) to chalk up their second win of the series.

Thomas joined forces with Jarryd Johnson (35) for an opening stand of 62 before hitting the winning runs in the seventeenth over.

Port Stephens toppled the Merewether Nepalese X1 to stay in third spot on

the late 1990s have all suffered from repeated and unexpected shutdowns due to safety concerns.

Even the relatively new Darlington on the north shore of Lake Ontario has suffered from technical problems, even with newer technology, which has resulted in it still to become fully operational.

The cost of building it also blew out considerably.

None of these costs take into consideration the cost of decommissioning which from experience in Europe is also extremely expensive.

The latest government estimates in Canada are at least $C120 Billion.

And, of course, there is still no known safe way of storing the waste. Current costs of the temporary storage run into billions of dollars each year. The Coalition is quite comfortable to leave this problem to our grandchildren.

If we compare the cost per megawatt hour, modelling done by the CSIRO and respected energy analyst Lazard Ltd, nuclear energy has a cost of $220 - $350 per megawatt hour.

In contrast solar farms and wind which Australia is already building cost between $25 and $45 per megawatt hour.

Adding the cost of battery storage and transmission adds only $25$34 per megawatt hour. Therefore, a reliable solution costing one fifth of the cost of nuclear.

Small Modular Reactors are as yet not in operation anywhere in the world, although we may see a roll out in the 2040s.

In the US NuScale planned to have

eleven points – two behind competition leaders Warners Bay Maroon (13 points).

The Pythons (6-146) secured victory in the final over after earlier restricting the Nepalese to 9-144 with swingman Brock Hawley (3-14 off seven overs), Luke Cooper (2-29 off seven) and Andrew Jordan (1-20 off seven) impressive with the ball.

Cooper capped a big game by top scoring with 53 off 52

On theCouch

DEAR Jasminda,

I HAVE a 30th party to attend next weekend and I'm not a big party person.

I don't enjoy drinking and I'm quite shy, but I'm also flattered that I was invited.

Is there a polite way to leave if it all gets too much?

Petra L.

Dear Petra,

Some people love parties and others would rather drive, blindfolded, across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in peak hour than stand around making small talk, often with complete strangers.

However, you've RSVP'd and it would be rude to cancel at such short notice, so there are a few strategies you can employ to make the night bearable, and maybe even enjoyable.

1. Have a pre-planned exit strategy and share it with the birthday host when you arrive. If you have young children you can blame the babysitter. A dog? Maybe it's unwell and you can't stay for long. Or say you have an early morning appointment on the following day.

2. You could ask a friend to call you at the time you'd like to leave. Make

two completed in Idaho by 2030.

To date neither has been started and on-paper costs have already increased to $A189 per megawatt hour.

For countries without the rich resources we have in sunlight and wind, they may still be the best option but why would we choose the most expensive option for us?

I had been open minded about nuclear energy until hearing Dr. Helen

an appropriate comment and say it loud enough for people to hear. Something vague and alarming will work, like: 'Oh, I was having such a good time, but of course. I'll leave straight away.' There is no need to elaborate.

3. Once the cake and the speeches are over, it's okay to make an exit. By then the drinkers will be in full swing, performing radical moves on the dancefloor, crying in a corner, relaying a tedious story, or passed out on the lounge. You should say goodbye to the host and the people you've been chatting with, but there is absolutely no requirement to say goodbye to everyone. It can take up to another hour, and no one has the energy for that. 4. At the start of the night, look around the room and see if you can find a kindred spirit. Maybe someone is sitting on their own, nervously twirling a glass of mineral water, and glancing at their phone. Go over and say hello. They are probably feeling just the same as you, and they'll be grateful that you made the first move.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Caldicott speak about her concerns when, working as a paediatrician in Adelaide, she needed to research why the incidence of leukaemia in children there is higher than the national average. They breathe in the air from the Olympic mine and the remnants of nuclear testing in the S.A. desert.

Regards, Barbara LYLE, Tea Gardens.

balls – slamming six fours and a six and combining with number seven Dane Castles (45 not out) for a sixth wicket partnership of 71 after the Pythons were reeling at 5-56.

Suresh Subedi and Pawan Giri both compiled 30 for the Nepalese.

There was no joy for the Pythons in a 54 run loss to first grade competition pacesetters Merewether at Connolly Park.

In a top of the table one

day clash, strong batting contributions from number three Leigh Harris, skipper Rowan Kelly (39 not out), opener Tim Cameron (29) and number five Brent Watson (22) helped Merewether post 8-189 from their 40 overs.

The Pythons were bundled out for 135 in the 31st over despite a courageous 41 from Lleyton Eveleigh off 52 balls that included five boundaries.

Mitch Piller (3-18 off

SPORT

five), Sam Michalski (3-29 off eight) and Ben Dibben (212) starred with the ball for Merewether.

Tom Lidbury (2-30), Tyran Eveleigh (2-43), Will Kirby (1-6) and Jeremy Kirk (1-29 off eight) toiled hard for the Pythons, who slip to third spot on eleven points behind Merewether (13) and Waterboard Wests (12).

READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 106: 1
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."

SPORT

Wendy Archer inducted into netball Hall of Fame

BANKSTOWN Sports Club

was the venue for a very special event honouring the former and founding President of the Port Stephens Netball Association.

On Saturday 2 November, President and Chair of Netball NSW Sallianne Faulkner held a presentation to induct Wendy Archer AM into the Netball NSW Hall of Fame, General Division.

Wendy began her netball journey at the age of ten, playing with her mates in the Sutherland Shire Netball Association competition, where her love for the sport grew.

She was the founding President of the Port Stephens Netball Association and is currently the Patron of the Association.

The netballing

community in the Port Stephens area is strong.

In the early days, the Nelson Bay Group was part of the Port Stephens Netball Association, but it has since gained association status and continues to grow the game.

The Port Stephens Netball Association commenced as a sub-group of the Newcastle Netball Association and in 1988 became a fully affiliated member of Netball NSW.

Many of the women who were part of that era are still involved today, and have been joined by their own children.

Wendy received a National “A” Badge Umpiring Accreditation in the early 1990s and spent many years coaching and mentoring potential umpires around the state.

She moved into full administration after an achilles injury, but continues coaching and mentoring

umpires around the state. She was also part of the Netball NSW Umpiring Panel for many years.

In 1999, Wendy was elected to the Netball NSW Board and in 2003 became President and Chair, a position she held until 2018 when she was elected to the Board of Netball Australia and held the position of Chair from 2022 until May 2024.

When News Of The Area asked Wendy how she felt about the induction, she said, “My initial reaction was one of being absolutely overwhelmed.

“To be inducted into the Netball NSW Hall of Fame, General Division, is a huge honour and I am very humbled to now be included amongst the legends and icons of Netball in NSW.

“On Saturday night, I was quite emotional throughout the presentation.

“To be in a room with so many people who have been a part of my netball journey, who have supported me, who have become my friends, who I have worked with over many, many years was overwhelming and so very special.

“Netball is a very strong

Fingal SLSC host boat carnival

WARM but perfect surf conditions provided the backdrop for Round Two of the Central Coast/Hunter Surf Boat Series at Fingal Beach Surf Life Saving Club last Saturday.

Crews from the Central Coast and Hunter SLSC branches and their 40 surf boats descended on Fingal Beach from 8am.

The series has run for the past 30 years and is iconic in surf life saving.

With the sport producing friendships and great life savers, surf boat racing is for everyone from young to old.

It develops high levels of fitness for not only rowing but for patrol and rescue teams.

This season the Fingal Beach team is newly formed, training together for the past

month with veteran sweep Eddy Bergsma, who provides a wealth of experience.

The strong crew consists of Tom Lescofitt, Eric Gatehouse, Mark Lyon and Greg Turner.

The team competed together for the first time in round one at Stockton Beach

SLSC and came third after four races.

On Saturday at Fingal, the “Flathead” Boat Crew came second in the Masters Division, with the points earned going to their total for the series with three more carnivals to go.

The Flatheads are

currently third in the Men’s Master’s competition and fifth on the men’s and ladies competition leaderboard.

There were over 200 people present on the beach including competitors, officials and supporters.

Saturday was also the official opening of the Fingal

Port Stephens club poised to create history

PORT Stephens Power AFL Club is on a mission.

After claiming this year’s Hunter Central Coast AFL Junior Club of the Year award, the Power have set their sights on entering a team in the Black Diamond Plate Mens competition for the first time.

Excitement is building at the established Power organisation as they attempt to create history and field their first-ever side in the men's division in 2025.

Newly elected Port Stephens AFL president Kayla Pennicott told News Of The Area that there was “a positive buzz around the club with a core of senior players keen to participate in pre-season training.”

“We are still chasing

players for our men's squad and would like to hear from any interested athletes that are keen to give AFL a crack,” the club stalwart and experienced midfielder said.

“At present we are assembling a squad that consists of a mix of youth and experience plus senior players making a comeback to the code, and converts from other sports.”

Players keen to pull on a teal, black and white jumper in the mens ranks next season include Medowie’s durable ruck rover Reegan Connors and Port Stephens junior Jacob Radcliffe.

Twenty-year-old Connors and eighteen-year-old Radcliffe are two young guns tipped to shine and lead the Power during the 2025 campaign.

Both have the

determination, character and skills to inspire teammates and put their stamp on matches.

They should prove valuable assets in the senior ranks.

They could be joined by local product Arrowyn Carter, who is another homespun colt with a big motor and bright future in the code.

Connors is keen to

link with the Power after nine seasons with the Lake Macquarie Dockers and Warners Bay Bulldogs where he represented Hunter as an emerging fifteen-year-old forward in 2018.

Radcliffe and Carter are talented defenders – straight out of the club’s Under 17 junior ranks.

Players interested in joining the Port Stephens AFL club should contact Power President Kayla Pennicott 0406 304 679.

team sport and I have been very lucky to have worked throughout my journey with strong teams of people who have a similar passion for our chosen sport.

“I acknowledged many of the people who have mentored me over the years and in the Hunter Region.

their

and many hours of

Tanilba Bay Veteran Golfers

DAY/DATE: TUESDAY 5th November '24

TIME, 8.00 Tee Time.

(During daylight saving time)

33 Players enjoyed the lovely overcast weather and some good scores were recorded. Welcome to the 3 East Maitland visitors. Welcome back from sick leave, Bill Alexander.

EVENT: 4 person team Ambrose event over nine holes, shotgun start.

RESULTS: NETT WINNERS: G. Glover, R. Dews, K.Miller & I. Williams nett 30 7/8 pts on c/b

A frozen chicken for each member of the winning team, supplied by Steak n Chops of Tanilba Bay

RUNNERS UP:

J. Carr, I. Wood (v), B.Daily (v) & D.Bateup (v) 30 7/8 pts

BALL WINNERS:

B.Disch, R.McKinney, R.Eaton, & M.Mullholland nett 31 5/8 pts

P.Germon, M.Lacey, L.Northey & B.Sampson nett 31 3/4 pts

B.Gergahty, G.Garvin, R.Stubbs & S. Robards nett 35 1/4 pts

L.Deane, A.Cowie & F.Drury nett 36 1/6 pts

NTP WINNERS: 4th hole

A Grade: Kim Millet

B Grade: Feed Drury

C Grade: not won

D & C WINNERS: 7th Hole

A Grade: Phil Germon

B Grade: Les Deane

C Grade: not won

David Enderby won the 1/2 ham raffle, supplied by Steak n Chops of Tanilba Bay.

NEXT WEEKS EVENT: Short course par 3 & 4 event from modified tees. Following the game and presentations, the AGM will be held, all committee positions are up for election and nominations are now closed.

q President and Chair of Netball NSW Sallianne Faulkner conducts Wendy’s induction
“Del Saunders (Newcastle Netball Association) and Dianne Pascoe (Charlestown Netball Association), are just two of the ladies that I hold dear to me."
Wendy will complete her term on the NA Board in March 2025.
q Fingal SLSC members enjoying their new bar after the carnival.
q Aerial race view.
Surf Club Members bar, run by volunteers from all levels of the club.
There was a special thank you to the club directors for
hard work
planning to bring back the bar for the Fingal Beach SLSC members and their guests.
q Port Stephens Power junior Madeline Pennicott in action during this year’s Under 9 Mixed Hunter Heeney series.

Stinker’s History: Tilligerry oyster tales

Melville Browne married

Isobel Thompson from Bishops Bridge near Kurri Kurri and the couple settled at Salt Ash in 1890 with 200 acres.

Originally a market gardener who ran a few cattle and kept orchards of oranges and apples, Perc started oyster farming as leases were being offered in 1922.

Percy’s son Henry Remmington “Harry” Browne followed his father into the oyster business as did Harry’s sons John and David, who worked as partners for 50 years.

On their launch “Alice B”, the Brownes have been working Tilligerry Creek for four generations.

The family is a wealth of stories relating to the trade.

On one occasion, Harry Browne and his mates Ern “Daddy” Diemar and Sam Thompson were going up to have a look at a patch of mangrove sticks on the Macleay River in 1925.

The oystermen left Salt Ash in an old Ford T, originally Archie McKenzie’s bus, converted to a truck with a canopy. They travelled to Newcastle to get a hundredweight coil of tie wire to give to the fellow up on the Macleay who was cutting the mangrove sticks.

With the tie wire in the truck, off they went to Kempsey.

Tired of travelling all day the trio made their first camp at Stroud Road.

The next day they headed to Gloucester through Krambach and travelled sun up to sun down before reaching Telegraph Point where they made camp.

Next morning they motored over the hill and down into Kempsey, then to Jerseyville on the Macleay River – three days on the road from Salt Ash to Kempsey!

Back on Tilligerry Creek, working shoulder to shoulder with fellow oystermen, many tales were told.

Harry Browne had very fond memories of his association with Sam Thompson and one story that was relayed to me involved Sam and the Fisheries Inspector.

It was the first lease this side of Stuart Island where Sam Thompson had selected the ideal area to build his lease with a sand shoal situated within the boundary.

When the Inspector arrived to measure up his lease, Sam wasn’t there.

When the inspected lease was handed over to Sam it was 50 yards short of the sand.

On his return, Sam exclaimed to Harry Browne: “That’s not where I want it! I want the sand.”

“Well” asked Harry, “What are you going to do about it?”

“No problem,” was Sam’s reply as he jumped into his boat, rowed out to the lease and pulled all the marker pegs out and moved them to the lease area that he wanted.

Fifty years later a Fisheries Inspector arrived in Tilligerry Creek to conduct

a resurvey of all the original selections including Sam’s.

It seems that resurveys were not conducted too frequently.

The Inspector could be seen scratching his head as he checked the coordinates he had been given.

He measured and remeasured Sam’s lease.

“Something is wrong

here,” declared the confused officer.

“I will take the measurements from where the lease is. Obviously there has been a mistake.”

That was the way Sam did lots of things.

There was another occasion when the Fisheries Officer arrived to measure out 100 yards.

Stinker’s Fishin’: Somewhere off ‘Coddy’

YOU have heard of Eagle Rock, Crocodile Rock and Jailhouse Rock, but few have heard of Cod Rock.

There is a not-so-subtle difference in that Cod Rock is a red-hot fishing spot and the rest are songs.

I was first introduced to Cod Rock, or ‘Coddy’ as it is affectionately known, way back in 1976 when I first visited Broughton Island on board the old “Waranah’’ with Captain Col Jenkins and a crew of pirates.

In the same year I was talking to a dear friend Dr Gerry Sertori who showed me a photograph taken on the beach in Esmeralda Cove in the early 1960s.

Piled up on the beach was a fantastic catch of super snapper up to 12kg caught by Gerry and a couple of mates off ‘Coddy’.

As you can imagine I was keen to learn the whereabouts of this great fishing spot.

This is where a mystery unfolds.

It was explained to me that there is in fact a rock on the southern face of Broughton Island named Cod Rock, however this is not exactly where the fish are.

It is my understanding that ‘Coddy’ actually refers to an extensive reef system that stretches from the southern side of Broughton back towards Nelson Bay.

A quick check of the area with your depth sounder will reveal a magnificent, rugged bottom with sharp peaks and troughs, perfect habitat for snapper – big snapper.

To put it simply – when it comes to fishing ‘Coddy’, there is no X marks the spot.

It was last week when a crew headed for Broughton for a few nights on the island.

Two members of the crew, Matt Grech and his mate Paul Said, decided to target the reef off Cod Rock in the hope of hooking a thumper.

Not having any clear marks, the anchor was dropped in a ‘likely spot’.

What happened next is a tale that needs to be told.

On arrival, the boys were met with thousands of mutton birds in a feeding frenzy.

On every occasion that a bait or a plastic was cast, the birds swooped, dived and flew off before the bait had a chance to sink.

In desperation, to avoid the diving birds, the boys strung two hooks, paternoster style, above half a pound of lead which sent the bait to the bottom faster than the birds could dive.

It wasn’t long before the real action began.

Snapper after snapper, swimming right under the boat, eagerly attacked the baits of slimy mackerel.

Returning to the island just after dark the great catch, with crackers up to 8kg, was

A stake was driven into the mud and Sam was asked to hold one end of the tape measure.

As the officer walked upstream Sam, with the stake in his hand, followed him for 20 yards and stopped before the Fisheries man wised up to his scheme.

When the Inspector left, the stake was replaced in its original hole.

All of Sam’s 100 yard leases were around 120 yards long.

Many of the iconic stories of the creek feature the RAAF.

There are very few interruptions on the creek so you can imagine the surprise when a RAAF helicopter hovered overhead, unannounced, at Browne’s oyster shed.

The chopper landed with a deafening sound in a whirlwind of dust on the turning circle reserved for trucks.

A wall of dry blocks toppled over and gear blew everywhere.

spread out on the sand in Esmeralda Cove.

I spent years researching and gathering fishing history for a book called “Broughton Islanders”, which recounted legendary catches of snapper by George Todd in the 1930s through to Peter Bless, “Chappy”, Tom Wade, Bob Dyer and Wally Ward in the 1960s.

It pleases me greatly to know that the fish are still there, waiting, just off Cod Rock.

Work ceased as the oystermen, holding their hats, were approached by the pilot and a crew member in full flying uniform.

“G'day mate, we were just passing and saw some old oyster sticks that look like they are not being used.

“Could we have a few to take to our Commander as his wife would like them to tie up her dahlias?”

Then there was the time, some years later, when the Brownes were heading down to the Bay in their launch “Alice B” just on daylight.

There was hardly enough light to see, however there

was just enough to see something sticking up out of the water.

It was soon realised that the strange object was the blade of a helicopter.

Motoring over to the blade and looking into the water John yelled to his mates: “There’s a helicopter down there!”

On contacting the RAAF base John informed reception: “We have found one of your helicopters, it’s in the creek.”

“We know about that, thank you,” came the reply from the RAAF, who promptly hung up.

“Well, how about that,” John said to himself, then went back to work.

Two days later the blade was still sticking out of the creek when it was announced by the media that there had been an accident with low night flying exercises and a helicopter had touched the water.

A week later the oystermen heard the true story.

A couple of crack pilots recently returned from Vietnam had taken a few young ladies for a moonlight spin, tipped the surface of the water and nose dived in.

Luckily all five swam ashore as the chopper sank to the bottom.

The shaken thrill seekers waded through the mud and managed to make it to Eric Holliday’s farm where they were greeted by Eric and escorted to the kitchen where they could dry out and clean off the mud.

Oddly this never made the papers.

q Browne’s oyster shed at Tilligerry Creek.
q Barry Sheppard, David Browne, John Browne, Gordon Holliday and Norm Glover.
q Browne leases at Salt Ash with breakwalls formed by used oyster sticks. Note the fences built around the oyster racks to protect the young oysters from fish.
q Cracker snapper caught by Paul Said and Matt Grech.

McCoy century sets up Nelson Bay cricket triumph

NELSON Bay Cricket Club’s unsung hero Tom McCoy is proving a valuable commodity in the Newcastle District Senior Cricket competition.

The experienced allrounder was at his dashing best last weekend in a Division Six one day fixture at Don Waring Oval - smashing a magnificent 118 in the Makos’ 55 run victory over the Teralba Billy Goats.

McCoy hammered four sixes and sixteen boundaries in his epic knock to help Nelson Bay register an

imposing 5-224 off their thirty five overs.

He combined with skipper Rowan Connick (34) in a productive opening stand to lay the foundations for a rollicking triumph.

It was the Makos’ third win of the season and lifts them to second spot on the competition ladder on eleven points after five rounds - one behind leaders Adamstown (12).

Thirty-two-year-old McCoy also shone with the ball, grabbing 1-15 off seven tidy overs with his seam bowling to help skittle the Billy Goats for 169 in the penultimate over.

Nelson Bay Golf Club

27 OCTOBER – 2 November 2024

Sunday 27 October 2024 NO GOLF

Monday 28 October 2024 NO GOLF

Tuesday 29 October 2024

Women’s Stroke Gymea Course

Nelson Bay Golf Club: Stableford:

Grade A: J Frost 40, R Shaw 37, R Rocher 33, R Kennett 33.

Grade B: J Oechsle 39, P Bowden 38, D Johnson 34, C Ledingham 34.

Grade C: S Peters 43, D Croft 38, V Lalor 38, S Mckay 37. PCC: 0.0

Women Stableford Brush Course

Overall Winners

1 Nelson Bay Golf Club: Stableford:

Grade A: R Welsh 20.

Grade B: V Tillott 20.

Wednesday 30 October 2024

Men’s Stableford: Brushbox course

Grade A: J Clark[13] 38, J Nardi[10] 37, A Daubaras[10] 36.

Grade B: G Flux[23] 44, C Haggett[19] 42, M Thornber[16] 40.

Grade C: R O'Neal[42] 52, R MITCHELL[27] 37, B Van Der Reyden[35] 37.

Men’s Stableford: Gymea Course

Grade A: P Fulton[12] 36, D KIRBY[9] 35, C Mackenzie[8] 34.

Grade B: G Jones[22] 40, J Linton[21] 40, J Stokeld[22] 39.

Grade C: P Parry[33] 39, P

Buckley[24] 37, S Punshon[27] 36. Thursday 31 October 2024

Women's Stableford: Same 9 twice: Brushbox Course:

Grade A: N SMITH[22] 40, D Moon[19] 38, V Melrose[35] 38, J Ferrier[43] 38.

Friday 1 November 2024

Ladies Stableford: Xmas Bush Course

Overall Winners:

1 Jean Lonergan (39) 38

2 Pattie Bowden (29) 37c/b

3 Elizabeth Pfennigwerth (30) 37c/b

Men’s Stableford: Gymea Lily Course

A1 Bob Kew (13) 39

A2 Jim Ball (11) 38

A3 Mick Hoare (14) 37c/b

A4 Vinko Komadina (14) 37

B1 Phil Sherwood (28) 40

B2 Brian Stewart (40) 39

B3 Forster Breckenridge (30) 38

B4 Ken Scamell (28) 37c/b

Saturday 2 November 2024

Mens Stableford Xmas Course

Grade A: Mark Thomber (14) 44, Steven Brown (10) 40, Vinko Komadina (14) 39

Grade B: Greg Spake (18) 42, Mike Selmo (17) 38C/B, Keith Bryars (18) 38.

Grade C: Steve Ryan (30) 38C/B, Colin Stone (26) 38, John Fletcher (30) 37

Mens Medal of Medals Stroke

Overall Winners: Norman Cousins

Pace ace Luke Donovan (4-39 off seven) and Joseph Connor (3-28 off eight) proved the chief destroyers despite gallant knocks from Teralba’s Jack Sharkey (72 not out), Lyndon McGrath (32) and Jarrod Williams (28).

Nelson Bay completed a successful weekend with one day victories over Warners Bay White in Division Two and Division Eight.

Matthew Palmer (46 not out) and Andrew Knox (43) piloted the Makos (3-118) to an emphatic win over Warners Bay in their Division Two tussle at Feighan Oval.

(32) 69C/B, Richard Graystone (30) 69, Dale Harris (32) 70C/B

Grade A: Phil Chisler (13) 70, Stuart Phegan (9) 71, Paul Collard (9) 73

Grade B: Peter Hamshaw (19) 70, Doug Hellmrich (20) 71, Kenneth Oberman (18) 72 C/B

Grade C: Norman Cousins (32) 69C/B, Richard Graystone (30) 69, Dale Harris (32) 70

Womens Stableford Gymea

Overall Winners: Sharon Dunn (20) 28C/B

3 NOVEMBER 2024 – 9 November 2024

Sunday 3 November 2024

Men’s Stableford: Xmas Bush Course

Grade A: L Stewart 39

Grade B: R Barnes 36

Grade C: Z Wasilewicz 42

Women’s Stableford Christmas

Bush Course:

Grade A: J Hazer 38, R Kennett 37

Grade B: G Fryar 41, D Hall 39

Monday 4 November 2024

NO GOLF

Tuesday 5 November October 2024

NO RESULTS

Wednesday 6 November 2024

Men's Stableford: Xmas Bush Course

Grade A: S Phegan[6] 39, N Edwards[10] 38, W Finney[11] 37, B George[8] 37

Grade B: S Roxby[16] 39, C Ermer[18] 38, P Jackson[20] 37, S Jones[23] 37.

Grade C: T Smith[32] 39, D Burnley[33] 38, R O'Neal[36] 37, L Bellamy[36] 36

Knox clouted six boundaries while Palmer hit three boundaries and two sixes with the pair adding 66 runs for the second wicket.

Earlier, Brodie Cox (2-7), Reegan Connors (2-14 off five) and Mike Leitinger (2-25 off six) restricted Warners Bay to 7-115 with Andrew Spruce (28) and Mitchell Clark (23 not out) leading the way with the bat.

Nelson Bay (4-126) proved too strong for Warners Bay (6122) in their Division Eight duel at Edgeworth Park.

Shannon Jackson top scored for

MENS Stableford: Brushbox Course

Grade A: J Clark[13] 39, S O'Malley[1] 39, B Kew[13] 38, D Warder[6] 38.

Grade B: J Pepper[22] 42, M Fisher[16] 40, C Tognon[18] 38, B Stimpson[21] 37.

Grade C: S Wilkinson[24] 43, K Sanders[24] 40, A Milne[37] 37, K MAYBURY[26] (Waratah Golf Club) 36.

Thursday 7 November 2024

Ladies 2 Person Ambrose: Xmas Bush Course

1 Fran Guides & Robyn Rocher 68.25

2 Jenny Frost & Mary Kay 68.5

3 Anita Hutchinson & Beth MacDuff 70

4 Annette Rumble & Tina Jeggo 70.5

VETS : Stableford

1 Barry Kalousek 22

2 John Bannerman 21

3 Karl Jorgensen 21

NTP Richard Lithgow Hole 5, 228cm

Friday 8 November 2024

Ladies Stableford: Brushbox Course

Overall Winners Deborah Hall (36) 38, Heather Read (48) 36, Josephine Richart (43 ) 35

Men’s Stableford: Brushbox Course

Grade A: V Komadina[14] 40, G Eaton[13] 38, M Jeggo[17] 38, P Hazer[14] 37

Grade B: P Bowen[24] 39, D Jones[38] 37, B Scott[23] 36, J Bell[28] 35

Saturday 9 November 2024

Men’s Ind Stab + 4bbb Stab:

the Makos with a power laden 45 off only 30 deliveries, smashing six boundaries and two sixes to set up the win.

He was supported by Simon Chappell (21), young gun Hunter Chappell (20) and Bradley Thomson (16 not out) as Nelson Bay achieved the run chase in the 22nd over.

Asher Telfer (2-18 off seven), Simon Chappell (1-9), Jackson (1-25 off seven) and Hunter Chappell (1-28 off seven) spearheaded the Makos attack with top bowling spells.

Gymea Lily Course

Grade A: Steve Conrades (14 38, Peter Fulton (12) 37c/b, Peter Gibson (7) 37c/b

Grade B: Mark Sajowitz (23) 41, Peter Campbell (19) 38c/b, Cooper Jones (22) 38.

Grade C: Richard Bates (27) 40, Mark Faragher (38) 39, Max Stocker (25) 37c/b

Men’s Ind Stab + 4bbb Stab: Brushbox Course

Grade A: Johnathan Shaw (10) 45, Jamie Keating (15) 39, Timothy Spain (11) 38

Grade B: Len Cooper (22) 44, Chris Brunt (16) 43, Robert D’Souza (17) 40

Grade C: Peter Parry (32) 43, Gary Walker (25) 33c/b,

John De Ridder (39) 33

Men’s C1 Ind Stab 19-9 + 4bbb

Stab: Brushbox Course

Overall Winners:

1 Len Cooper & John Clark Score 50

2 Richard Graystone & Steve Barnett Score 48c/b

Men’s C2 Ind Stab 1-18 + 4bbb

Stab: Gymea Lily Course

Overall Winners:

1 Terry Smith & Mervyn Livingstone Score 46

2 John Maslen & Steve Conrades Score 45c/b

Ladies Stableford 1-18: Gymea Lily Course

1 Bev Suska Score (42) 44

2 Rita Fitzgerald (22) 41

3 Sharon Dunn (19) 38

Nelson Bay juniors shine at rugby state championships

NELSON Bay Rugby Club’s future looks assured after ten of their best young prospects made an impact at this year’s NSW Rugby Youth Sevens State Championships in ForsterTuncurry.

Young guns Darcy Lawson, Josh Perry, Axel Kelman, Kade Lawson, Ollie Hoffman, Chiara Gamgee, Luca Stewart, Jada Stanley, Milly Cashen and Zoe Smith represented the Hunter Wildfires at the prestigious Sevens event where they showcased their skills in the Under 17s, Under 15s and Under 13s categories.

All ten Gropers’ juniors performed with distinction in their respective age groups with the promising trio of Kade Lawson, Kelman and Hoffman figuring in the Wildfires’ championship-winning Under 13 Boys team.

The outstanding crop impressed keen judges with strong displays for the Hunter in both the boys and girls divisions throughout the three day carnivals.

Matches were staged at the

Forster-Tuncurry Dolphins Rugby Club and Harry Elliot Oval Tuncurry, with the Wildfires capping a tremendous tournament by capturing the Under 13 Boys State Sevens title and finishing runnersup in the Under 13 Girls.

Hunter’s Under 17 Boys squad, featuring the sharp-running Darcy Lawson, finished fourth while both the Under 15 Boys team led by Perry and Under 17 Girls combination spearheaded by the gifted Stewart and Gamgee, claimed fifth position.

The Wildfires’ Under 15 Girls outfit finished sixth.

Gordon claimed both the Under 17 Boys and Under 15 Boys state titles with the Manly club (Under 17 Girls) and Central Coast (Under 15 Girls) also sharing championship honours.

Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Club secretary Matthew Findlay praised the ten players for their commitment and skilful displays during the Sevens championship series.

“They are a credit to the Nelson Bay club and Hunter region and have bright futures in the sport,”

Findlay said.

“It is a huge tick for our junior development programs and a just reward for the talented group that continue to produce top

performances in both the fifteen-aside and Sevens formats” he added.

Dynamic Luca is the younger sister of Wallaroo winger and Nelson Bay junior product Maya

Stewart while Chiara is the daughter of former Australian Sevens rep and Nelson Bay womens rugby coach Josh Gamgee.
q Nelson Bay rugby juniors Jada Stanley, Milly Cashen, Luca Stewart, Chiara Gamgee , Zoe Smith, Darcy Lawson and Josh Perry starred for the Hunter Wildfires. Absent: Axel Kelman, Kade Lawson and Ollie Hoffman.

SUDOKU

Kids Boot Camp 024

The Poldmaa family is sad to announce the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother, aunty, and friend

KATHLEEN POLDMAA

Kathleen passed away on the 5th of November 2024 surrounded by family. Join us to celebrate the life of Kathleen on Monday 18th November at 1pm St Andrew’s Anglican Church, 28 Witt St, Tea Gardens. Reception details TBA. 77 Years Young!

TEA GARDENS COUNTRY CLUB LTD. A.B.N. 30 001 038 660 NOTICE of ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the 53rd Annual General Meeting of Tea Gardens Country Club Ltd will be held in the Clubhouse, Yalinbah Street, Tea Gardens on Sunday 24th November 2024 at 9 a.m. Warren Gooley General Manager

Members, please note that access to the meeting and Clubhouse will be closed from 9am. The Club will open at the conclusion of the Meeting.

Members are asked to carry proof of membership and arrive in time to sign the Members’ Attendance Register prior to the commencement of the Meeting.

GUITAR & Bass tuition Theory muscianship Graduate of Aust Institute of Music Course details www.guitarstudio.net.au Salamander Bay 4984 4731

COMBINED Garage Sale 1 Starboard Way Tea Gardens Sat 16th Nov 8am-2pm. Lots of books, DVDs, clothes, microwvave, 6 drawer chest, Nespresso coffee machine, dog toys, jewllery, Kenwood sound system. e151124

Personals

Gent retired, medium build. Non smoker, non gambler, social drinker and financially secure. Enjoys dining out, music, movies, sport, outdoors, home life and travel. Like to meet to see a lady 60 to 70 slim to medium. Young at Heart and free tpr. Ph 0418 810 740 or write to PO Box 208 Nelson Bay 2315.

BED, king single GC, no stains, $60 0433 210 187

BOXING

CAMERA Sony DSCHX400V Cybershot 50x zoom, Wi-Fi, performs like a DSLR but compact with 3 inch viewfinder Great cond. $99. 0493 078 190 F260924

CEILING Fan, Lucci Future Eco 48 inch, T5 with 22 watt lite, bedroom size, have two, $60. 0433 210 187

CHILDREN’S & baby’s clothes, new, winter & summer, make an offer 0493 777 707

COFFEE table and wall unit, walnut stain $40 each or both for $50. 0423 545

600 x 440 high, $60. 0433 210 187

HEATERS, electric, from $10, free local delivery 49829225

MEN’S joggers, new size 10, worth $40 will sell for $10. 0493 777 707 F180724

MUSIC CD’s, 50s to 90s hard to finds & rarities Large quantity. $100 49665000

Door up to 18kg New $50. 0447 146 781

ELEGANT wrought iron table with glass top and 5 chairs

Please call for photos pickup Thornton $100. 0412783707

MINI BUSINESS SUIT RETIREE to supplement income. Designed for ‘Coastal

Chance to make BIG $$$. Sales been proven locally for 2 years. $15,000 or offer radorimfire@live.com.au

SHIMANO

FAN, for table, black exc cond. $20. 0493777707

FISH fern for ponds or aquariums, from $5 0466 880 639

WALKER, new, unused med wt,

MAZDA

0408 689 485

, new with glass lid, $20.

clean fill, pool excavation in thornton, must be within 5km radius for delivery. Ph 0476 789 721 TV hardly used, TCL Smart TV. Unwanted gift. $350. 4982 3521

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

JAMIE OLIVER: FAST & SIMPLE

TEN, 7.30pm

Jamie Oliver (pictured) is so keen to make cooking as easy and fuss-free as possible that it wouldn’t be surprising if the affable chef released a series (and of course, a tie-in cookbook) where he whips up delicious meals without a single dish, tool or appliance – perhaps even a meal that cleans the dishes for you? Oliver’s passion for making our lives both healthier and simpler is clear: this new entry shows us how to save time in the kitchen on weekdays with some clever tricks, batch recipes and pantry essentials to keep on hand.

FRIDAY, November 15

SATURDAY

ENCANTO

TEN, 6.30pm

Packed with catchy tunes crafted by Hamilton scribe Lin-Manuel Miranda, this animated Disney musical blooms with colour and captivating Colombian flair as it tells the story of matriarch Abuela (voice of María Cecilia Botero) and her exceptional descendants. Their enchanted home, Casita, grants each of them a magical gift – that is, all except 15-year-old Mirabel (pictured, Brooklyn NineNine’s Stephanie Beatriz). After her cousin Antonio turns five and gains the ability to speak to animals, Casita’s magic begins to fade, but Mirabel is the only one who can see it – at first. Her quest to save the family weaves a powerful tale about compassion, empathy and the invisible burdens many of us carry. A welcome change from the traditional Disney princess tales, Encanto casts a spell.

MONDAY

MURDER IN A SMALL TOWN

SEVEN, 9pm

If a murder mystery can be considered pleasant, this is it. Karl Alberg (Rossif Sutherland, pictured) needs to soothe a psyche that has been battered by big-city police work, so he moves to a quiet, coastal town in the Canadian province of British Columbia. But, far from finding the quiet life, Karl quickly learns the gentle paradise has more than its share of secrets. He will need to call upon all the skills that made him a world-class detective to solve the murders that continue to wash up on his shore. Karl also doesn’t expect to find romance, but is drawn to local librarian Cassandra (Kristin Kreuk, Smallville). It’s as soothing as crime gets.

(Mav)

Castle Secrets.

Kennedy.

SBS World News Late.

The Lesson. (Mal)

The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mav, R) 2.55 Inside The Modelling Agency. (R)

3.50 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 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. 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Melissa King explores The Calyx.

8.30 Growing Home With Jamie Durie: The Big Reveal. (Final, PG) Landscape designer Jamie Durie reveals his eco-masterpiece.

9.30 Murder In The Goldfields. (Madv, R) Caroline Overington investigates three murders in the sparse desert of the Western Australian Goldfields.

11.30 GetOn Extra.

12.00 Taken. (Mav, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III: Forests. (PGa, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: Spencer. (2021, Mal) Diana Spencer decides to end her marriage. Kristen Stewart, Timothy Spall.

11.00 Inside Beverly Hills. (PGm)

11.50 MOVIE: Dancing Through Christmas. (2021, PGa, R)

1.35 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Drive TV. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

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

7.30 Jamie Oliver: Fast & Simple. Presented by Jamie Oliver.

8.30 Matlock. (PGa, R) Matty settles into her new role at Jacobson Moore. Olympia takes on a lawsuit involving a developmentally delayed teenager. 9.30 NCIS. (Mad, R) As NCIS mourns the loss of Ducky, the agents find comfort in working on one of his unfinished cases.

10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 The Project. (R) 12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home

SATURDAY, November 16

6.00

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (Return) 8.25 The Cotswolds With Pam Ayres. (R) 9.15 1968: A Year Of War, Turmoil And Beyond. (M, R) 10.10 So Long, Marianne. (Mals) 11.10 Paris Paris. (PGals, R) 12.05 Hope. (Madlv, R)

2.20 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A passenger is concealing something in her luggage.

7.30 MOVIE: The Sound Of Music. (1965, G, R) A woman becomes governess to an Austrian family. Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer. 11.10 MOVIE: Last Night In Soho. (2021, MA15+alv, R) Anya Taylor-Joy. 1.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 1. Highlights.

2.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 Larry The Wonder Pup. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000, Mav, R) A Roman general seeks revenge. Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix.

10.35 MOVIE: Conan The Barbarian. (2011, MA15+sv, R) Jason Momoa.

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

1.35 Surfing Australia TV. (PGl, 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 MOVIE:

6.00

11.55 Miniseries: Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? (Mav, R)

12.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.05 Australia Remastered: Nature’s Great Divide. (R)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kiri And Lou. 5.55 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 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 7.55 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.25 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Teen Titans Go! 10.40 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm

7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Nancy Drew. (2007, PG) 9.05 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY

Marriage. (Final, Ml, R)

6am The Man

Who Knew Infinity. Continued. (2015, PG) 6.40 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 8.30 Limelight. (1952, PG) 11.00 The Conference. (2022, M, German) 1.05pm The Program. (2015, M) 3.00 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 6.00 Race. (2016, PG) 8.30 Ava. (2020, MA15+) 10.20 5 To 7. (2014, M) 12.10am While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.00 Hamburger Hill. (1987, MA15+) 4.05 The Program. (2015, M)

SUNDAY, November 17

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Adelaide 500. Qualifying and support races. 3.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race 23. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 AFL Women’s Pre-Game. 7.30 Football. AFL Women’s. Semi-final. Hawthorn v Port Adelaide. 9.30 MOVIE: Terminator 2: Judgment Day. (1991, M) 12.20am

(2011) 4.40

Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 5.40 MOVIE: The Flintstones. (1994) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PG) 10.45 MOVIE: The Adjustment Bureau. (2011, M) 12.50am Late Programs.

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Venice From Above: City On Water. 9.45 JFK Revisited: Through The Looking Glass. (Mav, R) 11.50 Waterman: Duke –Ambassador Of Aloha. (PG, R)

1.35 Royal Autopsy. (MA15+s, R)

3.20 How To Get Fit Fast. (R)

4.15 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

VICELAND (31) VICELAND (31)

6am Race. (2016, PG) 8.30 Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams And Monsters. (2019, PG) 10.05 The City Of Lost Children. (1995, M, French) 12.05pm While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.00 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 4.00 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 6.20 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 8.30 Rendition. (2007, MA15+) 10.45 Mama, I’m Home. (2021, M, Russian) 12.45am The Survivor. (2021, MA15+) 3.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl)

8.35 Tsunami: The Wave That Shook The World. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

10.35 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R)

11.45 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 12. Adelaide 500. Day 2. Highlights.

12.45 The Starter Wife. (Mas, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

8.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Premiere, Mlv) A

6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Southside Flyers v UC Capitals. 2.30 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 3.30 MOVIE: The Pink Panther. (2006, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Superman Returns. (2006, M) 10.45 MOVIE: The Brothers Grimsby. (2016, MA15+) 12.30am Gotham. 1.30 Love After Lockup. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (83)
9GO!

MONDAY, November 18

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 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50

TUESDAY, November 19 6.00

8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M)

Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)

Have I Got News For You U.S. (Mals)

SBS World News Late.

A Criminal

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

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.00 Murder In A Small Town. (Premiere, Mav) A detective moves to a quiet, coastal town only to encounter numerous murder mysteries.

S.W.A.T. (Mav)

11.30 The Latest: Seven News. 12.00 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGals) 12.30 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(32)

6am Flash Of Genius. Continued. (2008, PG) 7.45 The Great Dictator. (1940, PG) 10.00 5 To 7. (2014, M) 11.50 The Justice Of Bunny King. (2021, M) 1.45pm Race. (2016, PG) 4.15 Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams And Monsters. (2019, PG) 5.50 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 7.30 Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 9.45 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 12.10am Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (PG)

8.30 The Zelensky Story. (Final, PG)

9.30 World’s Greatest Train Journeys From Above. (R) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Babylon Berlin. (Manv) 12.45 Son Of. (MA15+av, R) 2.25 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Hoarders. 10.05 Have I Got News For You U.S. 11.00 Bloodlands. 12.05am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 6.10 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 7.50 After The Storm. (2016, PG, Japanese) 10.00 Rabbit Hole. (2010, M) 11.40 Mama, I’m Home. (2021, M, Russian) 1.40pm Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 3.55 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 6.05 Tourism. (2017) 7.30 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 9.25 Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 11.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (Final, PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 Defying Gravity: Curtain Rises On Wicked. (PGl) A behindthe-scenes look at Wicked 10.10 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) 11.10 The Latest: Seven News. 11.40 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa, R) 12.45 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R)

Home Shopping.

NBC Today.

Sunrise 5am News.

Sunrise. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

RBT. (Madl)

Schoolboy Mason Kelman sets record with both NSW rugby league and union jumpers

FROM Page 28

turned in strong displays in the Blues’ victories over Victoria (40-0) and ACT (36-6) and first up 18-14 loss to the Maroons before

producing an inspirational performance in the final.

The rampaging forward stepped up an age group this season for the Nelson Bay Gropers in the Hunter Junior Rugby competition – playing

Under 13s alongside elder brother Axel, one of the best number eight prospects in the region.

Coached by their father James Kelman, a former top Eastwood rugby junior, the

team came across from the Nelson Bay Marlins junior league ranks and finished third.

Mason has the makings of a natural impact player in either code.

With his agility, speed and strength and ability to offload a pass, the boom forward

is sure to come under the scrutiny of league and rugby talent scouts.

For the coming months he will hone his ball skills in the Nelson Bay Touch Football system to supplement his offseason football training.

If his 2024 accomplishments are any

guide, young Mason would be a strong candidate for either the Newcastle Knights, Central Coast or Sydney Roosters rugby league Junior Development pathways.

FAMILY (22)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 The Adventures Of Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Doctor Who. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Michael Mosley: Wonders Of The Human Body.

8.30 The Jury: Death On The Staircase. (Malv)

9.30 The Old Man. (MA15+v)

10.45 SBS World News Late.

11.15 Maxima. (Premiere, Mls)

12.10 Miniseries: DI Ray. (Malv, R)

3.40 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R)

WEDNESDAY, November 20 THURSDAY, November 21 6.00

4.35 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. (Final, PGav)

8.30 The Big Trip. (PGal) The teams travel to Streaky Bay, where Lehmo teaches Dilruk to drive.

9.30 First Dates UK. (Ma) Singles experience the thrills of dating.

10.35 The Latest: Seven News.

11.05 Unbelievable Moments

Caught On Camera. (PGal, R)

R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY

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 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Little Lunch. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.10 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.40 Doctor Who. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs.

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6am The Movie Show. 6.25 Tourism. (2017) 7.50 Like Father, Like Son. (2013, PG, Japanese) 10.05 We’ll Be Young And Beautiful. (2018, M, Italian) 11.45 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 2.05pm The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 3.45 After The Storm. (2016, PG, Japanese) 5.55 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 7.30 Iron Sky. (2012, M) 9.15 Iron Sky 2. (2019, M) 10.55 Clean. (2021, MA15+) 12.40am Late Programs.

12.05 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+av)

1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGm) 8.30 ARIA Awards. (Mls) 10.10 9News Late.

10.40 My Life As A Rolling Stone. (Madl, R)

11.55 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Mav)

12.50 Hello SA. (PG)

1.20 Talking Honey.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PGa, R) 3.00 Plat Du Tour. 3.10 Railway Vietnam. (PG, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy!

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Osher Günsberg: A World Of Pain. (Mads)

9.40 Miniseries: Steeltown Murders. (Premiere, Malv)

10.45 SBS World News Late.

11.15 Miniseries: The Typist. (Masv, R)

12.20 Pandore. (MA15+av, R)

4.05 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

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

7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Empire Of The Sun. (1987, PG) 11.20 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Hustle. 1.25 Who Killed The WCW? 2.20 Ice Cowboys. 3.15 Cook Up Bitesize. 3.20 The Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 Adam Eats The 80s. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Greatest Escapes With Morgan Freeman. 10.10 Invisible Nation. 11.45 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Malcolm. Continued. (1986, PG) 7.05 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 8.55 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 10.35 Australian Rules. (2002, M) 12.25pm Hounds. (2023, M, Berber) 2.10 Tourism. (2017) 3.35 Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 5.35 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 7.30 The Last Vermeer. (2019, M) 9.40 Hurricane. (2018, MA15+) 11.40 Late Programs.

Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) Police search for illegal firearms.

7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa) Documents the work of the highway patrol.

8.30 The Front Bar: Year In Review. (Ml) A lighter look at the world of sport.

10.00 Nurse Georgie Carroll Sista Flow 2.0. (Mals)

11.45 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R)

12.45 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. 7.30 RPA. (PGm)

9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)

Multi-sport star

ANNA Bay schoolboy Mason Kelman sits back with pride when he reflects on a memorable 2024 season of representative sport.

The record-setting twelve-yearold from One Mile Beach stamped himself one of the most versatile athletes for his age when he earned NSW jumpers in both rugby league and rugby union, and AFL honours with the Hunter Schoolboys squad.

Mason, a strapping front row forward, etched his name in the record books when he became the first athlete from the Port Stephens region to represent the NSW Primary Schools Sports Association in two different sports during the same year.

The powerful prop made an impact for the Sky Blues during the National Primary Schools Rugby League Championships in Canberra in August, before his selection in the NSW Schoolboys rugby squad that attended a two-day camp at the NSW Waratahs Centre of Excellence at Kensington.

It is a tremendous achievement by the Year Six Anna Bay Public School pupil, who also represented Hunter as a fullback at the State AFL Primary Schools Championships in Albury and the Hunter Wildfires at the Junior State Cup Rugby titles at Camden.

A chuffed Mason told News Of The Area that lining up for NSW in two different sports was “a great feeling.”

“To pull on those NSW jumpers was a special moment and amazing experience,” revealed the ball playing front rower, who will also represent the Nelson Bay Neptunes Under 14 touch football team as a promising “middle” this summer.

NSW finished joint national champions after a 24-all draw with rivals Queensland in the rugby league trophy decider with the talented Kelman proving a genuine driving force up front.

Nicknamed “The Fridge” after physical comparisons to former Chicago Bears American football powerhouse William Perry, Mason CONTINUED Page 26

Aged Care Reform Aged Care Reform

q Anna Bay Public School sportsman Mason Kelman, who has represented NSW in both rugby league and union this year, with his father James Kelman.

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