Port Stephens News Of The Area 14 September 2023

Soldiers Point Lions punching above their weight

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Lions Club of Soldiers Point have celebrated the year that was at their annual changeover dinner.

The changeover dinner was a busy night of donations and appreciation, as well the induction of members into their new positions by guest Lion Bob Findley from Raymond Terrace Lions Club.

Mr Findley spoke briefly about the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Foundation of which he is District Trustee, and which has donated $12 million for research into childhood cancer since 2008.

With assistance from grant money from the Australian Lions Foundation, the Soldiers Point Lions

CONTINUED Page 3

DANGER REDUCTION

Work underway to reduce koala vehicle strikes in Port Stephens

Marian SAMPSON

q (Back row) Lions Kim Wright, Alan Ritchie, Bob Findley, Lesley Wright. (Front row) Sharon Blunt, Kathy Refalo, Christine Lilly and Virginia Andrews.

NOTICE OF ADVERTISED DEVELOPMENT Council has received the following Development Applications (DAs):

DA NO: 16-2023-470-1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: Lot 1 DP 996491, 103 Cabbage Tree Road, Williamtown

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) AND ASSOCIATED WORKS

APPLICANT: Hunter Development Brokerage Pty Ltd

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel

ASSESSING OFFICER: Courtney Sargent | 02 4988 0263 | courtney.sargent@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 14 days ( 07/09/2023 to 21/9/2023)

SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 21/09/2023

DA NO: 16-2023-192-1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: Lot 1 DP 810854, 2 Rangers Road, Ferodale

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITY APPLICANT: Amplitel Pty Ltd

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Port Stephens Council

ASSESSING OFFICER: Courtney Sargent | 02 4988 0263 | courtney.sargent@portstephens.nsw.gov.au NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 14 days (09/09/2023 to 25/9/2023)

DUE DATE: 25/09/2023

NOTICE OF NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT

Council has received the following Development Applications (DAs) for Integrated Development:

DA NO: 16-2023-382 1

DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT

DA NO: 16-2023-386 1

DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOT: 1 DP: 1265736, 1154 Clarence Town Road, Seaham

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: BESS (BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM)

APPLICANT: Hunter Development Brokerage Pty Ltd

CONSENT AUTHORITY: Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel

NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL(S): TYPE OF APPROVAL: APPROVAL AGENCY: Section 91 – Activity Approval Department of Planning and Environment Water Operations Division

ASSESSING OFFICER: Courtney Sargent | 02 4988 0263 | courtney.sargent@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (12/09/2023 to 10/10/2023)

SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 10/10/2023

WHERE TO VIEW INFORMATION:

Online portstephens.nsw.gov.au or datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au

Council’s Administration Building 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace (between 9am and 5pm weekdays)

TO MAKE A SUBMISSION:

Anyone can make a submission to Council during the exhibition period. If the submission is an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be clearly specified. Submissions can be made in any format (including video or audio), which can be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size.

Mail PO BOX 42 Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

Email council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

Please note:

• All written submissions received during the exhibition period will be considered by Council during the assessment of the DA. Submissions are considered to be ‘open access information’ under Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, (GIPA) and are made publicly available on Council’s DA Tracker. Personal identifiable information is redacted from submissions uploaded to DA Tracker.

• If you have made a reportable political donation or gift donations (including donations of or more than $1,000) in the last 2 years, your submission will need to be accompanied by a ‘Political Donations and Gift Disclosure Declaration’ form. Visit Council’s website for details and/ or a disclosure form.

COUNCIL NOTICES | portstephens.nsw.gov.au | 02 4988 0255 | council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au

Soldiers Point Lions punching above their weight

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were proud to present Rebekah Wilson from the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) with a cheque for $2,000.

The funding will enable Associate Professor Paul Tooney to purchase a muchneeded Fluorimeter to examine the DNA in Brain Bank samples with the aim of customising treatments for individuals with brain cancer.

Joe-Ann Williams, the Community Liaison Officer from Tomaree High School, accepted a voucher for $100

towards a Year 12 Special Recognition Award.

Year 10 Student Ebony Lock, recipient of the Harding-Miller Scholarship, thanked Lions for their support of $5,000 per year and was congratulated on her achievements to date and her unwavering commitment to her studies.

President Jayne Kilbride and Treasurer Cheryl Millar of the Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary presented the Lions with a certificate of appreciation for their donation of $3,445 for two bed-chairs and their

continuing collaboration in obtaining vital equipment.

Newly-inducted Lions President Lesley Wright praised the small club for punching above its weight.

“Funds raised for 2022-23 total $14,532, with 83 percent going to the local Nelson Bay community,” Lesley Wright told News Of The Area.

“In addition to the donations mentioned above, the club also supported prizes for local primary schools, food and care packages for the Yacaaba Centre and the Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre, the Tomaree Prostate

Port Stephens invited to Walk For Yes

By Marian SAMPSON

AS support for the No vote in Australia’s Voice to Parliament referendum hits an all time high, Yes vote walks have been planned across the country.

The three kilometre Port Stephens Walk for Yes event is being held on 17 September at Riverside Park, Raymond Terrace at 9.30am.

The referendum asks Australians to deliver an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture, and protect their voices in Australia’s 122-year-old constitution.

"In 1967 we walked together to demand that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people be counted in our constitution,” Yes23

Campaign Director Dean Parkin said.

“Just 23 years ago, in 2000, we made history as a quarter of a million Australians walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a momentous display of support for reconciliation.

“And then, 15 years ago, in 2008, we walked together again when the country gave its national apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander people who were removed from their families and communities.

“Now, in 2023, we have the chance to make history again.

“We have the chance to show our support for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution through a Voice.

“We have the chance to Walk for Yes.”

Cancer Group, the Koala Hospital, and our aged care facilities.”

The remaining funds have gone to various causes in Australia, such as the tragic Hunter Valley bus crash and NSW floods.

International disaster relief and causes such as vaccination of children, prevention of blindness, and alleviation of hunger in developing countries have also been supported.

For further information regarding Soldiers Point Lions Club, email Soldierspointlionsclub@ gmail.com or ring 0490060943.

q Lion Lesley Wright (left) presents the $2000 cheque for cancer research to Rebekah Wilson from HMRI.

q Jayne Kilbride, Lesley Wright and Cheryl Millar proudly hold the Certificate of Appreciation from the United Hospital Auxiliary.

q Ebony Lock thanking the Lions for the HardingMiller Scholarship.

EXHIBITION OF STATE SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION

Stockton Dry Sand Extraction Project

Application No

SSD-52984213

Location Coxs Lane, Fullerton Cove

Applicant Boral Resources (NSW) Pty Ltd

Council Area Port Stephens

Consent Authority Minister for Planning and Public Spaces or Independent Planning Commission

Description of proposal

Stockton Dry Sand Extraction Project, which involves:

• extraction of up to 750,000 tpa of dry sand (i.e. from above the water table) using dozer, excavator, haul trucks and front end loader;

• dispatching up to 750,000 tpa of product sand from the site; continued operation and augmentation of the existing sand washing and processing plant; and

• construction of new and upgraded site access, parking, administration, maintenance and storage facilities.

About the exhibition

An exhibition process allows any individual or organisation to have their say about a proposed development.

The Department of Planning and Environment (Department) has received a State significant development application for the abovementioned project. The application, environmental impact statement, and accompanying documents are on exhibition from Thursday 14 September 2023 until Wednesday 11 October 2023

You can view these documents online at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects.

At the time of publishing this advertisement, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces has not directed that a public hearing should be held.

Have your say

The Department encourages online submissions. To have your say online, search for this project at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects and click on ‘Make a submission’. You will need to log in or create a user account.

If you cannot submit online, post or drop your submission to the address below, to arrive before the close of exhibition. If you would like your personal information to be withheld from publication, please clarify this in a separate cover sheet and only provide your personal information in that cover sheet. Do not include personal information in your submission as your submission will be published in full.

If you choose to send a paper-based submission, it is important that both the submission and mailing envelope are addressed to the nominated contact person below.

Please be aware that if you choose to send a paper-based submission and it is not addressed to the nominated contact person, the submission will not be received by the Department and will instead be returned to sender

Before making your submission: You should read the Department’s:

• disclaimer and declaration at planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/help/ disclaimer-and-declaration; and

• privacy statement at planning.nsw.gov.au/privacy.

Please call 1300 305 695 if you wish to be provided with a copy. Your submission will be published on the NSW planning portal in accordance with our privacy statement and disclaimer and declaration.

In your submission, please include:

• your name and address (please ensure your personal details are provided in a separate cover sheet if you would like your details to be withheld from publication);

• the name of the project and the application number;

• a statement on whether you ‘support’ or ‘object’ to the application or if you are simply providing comment;

• the reasons why you support or object to the application;

• a declaration of any reportable political donations you have made in the last two years (visit planning.nsw.gov.au/DonationsandGiftDisclosure or phone 1300 305 695 to find out more); and

• a statement indicating you acknowledge and accept the Department’s disclaimer and declaration.

For more information, including a copy of the Department’s submissions policy, please go to planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/have-your-say.

For more information: Contact (02) 9585 6313 or 1300 305 695

Address: Director – Energy and Resource Assessments, Development Assessment, Department of Planning and Environment, Locked Bag 5022, Parramatta NSW 2124 or 4 Parramatta Square, 12 Darcy Street, Parramatta NSW 2150.

Work underway to reduce koala vehicle strikes in Port Stephens

FROM Page 1

the beloved native marsupial locally.

“The highest number of koalas killed on roads during spring occurs in the Lismore, Byron, Port Stephens and Tweed LGAs (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2019),” a NSW Department of Planning Industry and Environment spokesperson said.

“More males than females are involved in vehicle strikes.

“The koala population has declined by at least 26 percent in NSW over the last 20 years (OEH 2018).

“Vehicle strike has played a key role in this decline – it is one of the most frequently reported causes of injury and death for koalas brought into care by wildlife rehabilitation groups.”

Port Stephens Council has been proactive in implementing a solution on Port Stephens Drive, a roadway with a history of koala vehicle strikes over the years.

New koala-proof fencing is being deployed along Port Stephens Drive with a tunnel (culvert) that allows koalas and other animals to cross the dangerous stretch of road.

Brock Lamont, Council's Strategy and Environment Section Manager told News Of The Area, ”The fencing and fauna culvert has been constructed based on Transport for NSW designs and used for many years within NSW.

“The designs are based on the best available information and are updated in response to data gathered during the monitoring phase.

“Generally, a combination of ‘hard management controls’ such as koala proof fencing and culverts sees a much higher reduction in koala road strikes than ‘soft controls’ which use signage

and lighting.”

Placement of the tunnel under Port Stephens Drive has been carefully determined.

”The tunnel has been strategically located to link koala habitat areas and designed so it is suitable for koala usage, whilst also ensuring minimal impacts to the environment.”

While the fencing won’t stop all koalas, it has been situated strategically, with gaps at certain spots.

”The fencing project is located on a section of Port Stephens Drive which has the least constraints and the best opportunity to protect the koala habitats.

“It wasn’t feasible for us to fence the entire roadway and we have ended the fencing at strategic locations.

“Koalas can still navigate to the ends of the fence however the design directs koalas towards openings in the fence to the culvert (tunnel).”

For the odd koala that gets onto the wrong side of the fence there are regularly placed one-way climbing posts to assist them in exiting the roadway.

”We ask drivers to be wary of koalas in the roadway in these areas.”

While the fencing and oneway koala posts are the most visible part of the project, there are more strategies being implemented to help save the species - including cattle grid type installations on side roads.

Port Stephens Council does not plan to employ a similar solution elsewhere in the LGA at this time.

“This project has been fully funded by and delivered in partnership with the NSW Koala Program.

“Council will continue working with the NSW Government on projects to protect our important Koala population,” Mr Lamont said.

Port Stephens Council is supporting Save the Koala month – keep an eye on their website for more details.

The Port Stephens Koala Hospital is encouraging members of the public to report koala sightings at www.portstephenskoalas. com.au/rescue.

If you see a koala in distress or injured, please call 1800 775 625.

q Port Stephens Council are attempting to lower the amount of koala vehicle strikes.

EcoNetwork: Too early for outright opposition to offshore wind development

By Doug CONNOR

ECONETWORK Port Stephens have released an official statement on potential offshore wind development for the Hunter coast, declaring it “premature to engage in a campaign of outright opposition” towards the project.

“EcoNetwork shares many of the concerns that have been raised about the

environmental and other impacts of offshore wind developments,” EcoNetwork committee member Nigel Waters wrote last week.

An organisation dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Port Stephens, EcoNetwork is urging project opponents to be patient until submissions made regarding the offshore wind development can be adequately addressed by government agencies and the proponents of specific offshore wind projects.

The statement also

indicated that EcoNetwork did not support a petition circulated by the Newcastle and Port Stephens Game Fish Club calling for a halt to potential offshore wind development, with EcoNetwork suggesting the petition did “not present the full facts”.

“EcoNetwork is researching the implications of offshore wind – there is significant experience worldwide to draw on, and proponents will be required to prepare and consult publicly on detailed

environmental assessments and management plans before any approvals are given,” Mr Waters said.

“The turbines won’t be deployed, if at all, for another seven years or so while these various environmental and other studies are carried out.”

The statement then urged people not to take a final position on the pros and cons of offshore wind generation off the Port Stephens coast until more information is available.

“We invite anyone to contact us with their concerns

and not be unduly influenced by the misinformation which is being circulated,” Mr Waters said.

“We also recommend that everyone questions the motives and underlying starting points of both proponents and opponents of current proposals.

“EcoNetwork’s starting point is that we urgently need much more renewable energy generation, and that offshore wind turbines may make a significant contribution, but only on the proviso that environmental impacts can

be managed appropriately.”

Ewa Meyer, the editor of EcoNetwork’s EcoUpdate publication, said the organisation will “continue to be involved in consultations with proponents and government to get the best environmental outcome”.

“We strongly believe that negotiation is a more positive way forward than through protests based on unsubstantiated claims,” Meyer said.

To contact EcoNetwork, email info@econetworkps. org.

Bushfire survivors ask government to pause all new coal and gas projects

WITH another season of drought, extreme heat and catastrophic fires potentially on the horizon, Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action (BSCA) is calling on the Federal Government to pause all new coal and gas approvals, including expansions, until it reforms the existing environmental regulatory framework and establishes a new national Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In 2022 Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced the establishment of a new EPA in response to a review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act which found the Act was ineffective and not fit to address current or future environmental challenges.

A public consultation period concerning those reforms is due to start this year.

BSCA believes a robust regulatory framework is critical in ensuring high carbon emitting fossil fuel projects are assessed properly for their climate impact.

Fossil fuel projects have been shown to pollute the environment and drive climate change, creating extreme weather events that put our communities at risk from intense bushfires like the Black Summer fires of 2019-2020.

With fire authorities, the World Meteorological Organisation and the Bureau of Meteorology all predicting a return to extreme heat and drought this spring and summer, BSCA believe federal and state governments must be doing everything they can to protect communities from more frequent and intense climate-fueled bushfires.

“Those of us on the frontline of past bushfires have been watching the recent fires across the northern hemisphere with horror,” said Serena Joyner, CEO of BSCA.

“Now as our summer approaches the worrying predictions from fire authorities and warnings of a possible El Nino are really

scaring people.

“It wasn't that long ago that the catastrophic Black Summer fires of 2019-20 devastated communities up and down the East Coast of Australia - and many people are still struggling with the financial and bureaucratic burden of rebuilding.

“The scale and intensity of those terrible fires will become the norm unless we reduce emissions this decade.

“The Federal Government must not make

the situation worse.

“All new coal and gas project approvals must be paused while the right regulatory framework is put in place that ensures our communities and the places they love are protected.”

Last week members of BSCA travelled from Queensland, Victoria and

NSW to attend meetings in Canberra with MPs and Senators from across the political spectrum - asking them to support a pause in fossil fuel approval until Australia's environmental assessment laws are reformed.

“If we know the system isn’t up to scratch, it just

makes sense to stop making the problem worse,” Ms Joyner said.

“That’s why we’ve launched a petition calling on the government to do what it has promised and pause approvals of polluting projects until the reforms are done.”

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

Marian SAMPSON 0414 521 180 marian@newsofthearea.com.au

Climate Council calls on NSW Government to accelerate renewables

shortest period of time in our nation’s history,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.

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

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

EDITOR

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FLIPBOOK ONLINE: www.newsofthearea.com.au

SOCIAL: facebook.com/portstephensNOTA

POST: PO Box 1000, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

WITH tense discussions taking place over the future of the Eraring Power Station, the Climate Council says the NSW Government should ‘throw everything it’s got at ramping up renewable energy and storage’.

Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said the slated 2025 closure of Eraring can and must be upheld for NSW to stay on track to meet its emissions reduction targets and unlock a new era of affordable, reliable zero emissions energy.

“Now is the time for Premier Minns to accelerate the move towards affordable, clean energy sources like wind, solar, batteries and pumped hydro,” Ms McKenzie said.

“The renewable energy boom is our best shot at tackling the climate crisis.

“With the right policies, NSW can create thousands of new clean energy jobs, drive down power bills and continue to deliver reliable electricity supply for homes and businesses.”

The Climate Council has outlined three key steps the NSW Government could take immediately to ensure energy reliability and lower costs as coal-fired power stations continue to close.

"First, we need the Government to task the energy market operator with urgently bringing on more renewables and storage.

closure can be managed smoothly while securing more affordable and reliable clean power.”

Last week the NSW Government released its strategy to ‘secure the reliable supply of clean and affordable renewable energy for NSW’ following the Electricity Supply and Reliability Check Up conducted by Cameron O’Reilly from Marsden Jacob Associates.

The Check Up found that there will be energy reliability challenges for NSW in the next couple of years.

As a result of that finding, the government will engage with Origin on its plans for extending the life of Eraring, at the same time as pursuing alternative solutions to deliver the renewable generation, transmission and storage solutions that NSW needs.

“NSW is committed to meeting its net zero ambition and transforming our electricity system to renewables as soon as possible.”

In a report released on Monday by the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), experts have presented options for driving Australia’s progress towards a zero emission electricity system.

The short report, ‘Powering the Net Zero Transition: Electricity Security Explained’, responds to electricity as a critical lynchpin for driving decarbonisation across a wide range of sectors, like transport, buildings, and industry.

“The challenge to transition Australia’s electricity system to accommodate more renewable energy sources is not the race to develop new solutions – it's about the targeted investment in deploying existing technologies, and the infrastructure to store and transmit energy to provide reliable continuous supply.”

ATSE Fellow and Grattan Institute Climate and Energy Director, Tony Wood FTSE said, “In 2022, 35 percent of Australia’s electricity generation came from renewable energy, up four percent from 2021.

“Yet deployment rates, storage and supporting transmission expansion are not yet enough to achieve the Government’s 82 percent renewable energy generation target by 2030.”

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

“It can do so by fast tracking tenders for new capacity, releasing a new tender for the 191 megawatts needed to fill the reliability gap caused by the exit of Eraring, and expanding NSW projects underwritten by the federal Capacity Investment Scheme," Ms McKenzie said.

“The Government should also hurry up and approve the 2,300 megawatts of wind and solar projects that are waiting for approval to connect to the existing transmission network.

“The Government can actively engage with developers to get these projects underway.

“Further, the NSW Government should help large energy users like households, businesses and industry use energy in smarter and more efficient ways.

“This includes a large energy efficiency package for social and public housing, incentives for commercial batteries and demand response, and support for industrial load shifting.

“The renewable energy transformation is underway, but it needs leadership from the NSW Government.

“With the right policies now, Eraring’s

“One of the biggest challenges facing NSW is ensuring we can keep the lights on while managing the biggest change in energy mix and consumption in the

“As Australia moves towards a net zero energy system, electricity generated by solar and wind technology is poised to become our most dominant source of energy,” ATSE CEO Kylie Walker said.

“Our expert Fellows advise that we have sound technological solutions already.

The report finds that transitioning the electricity system to accommodate more renewable energy sources will require greater investment in existing technologies as well as innovation in new technology solutions to reduce consumer costs further.

Employment for seniors

By Marian SAMPSON

IN a bid to fill staff shortages and address the cost of living crisis, there is a move for seniors to get back into the workforce.

Business Port Stephens are holding an information session for seniors who might be interested in getting back

into the employment market on their own terms.

The 55+ Employment Opportunity Session and morning tea is being held on Monday 18 September at Latitude One.

Marylou Stubbs of Business Port Stephens told News Of The Area, “We have businesses that are looking for casual staff in the following areas and would

love to chat to you.”

“There are opportunities in aged care, hospitality, tourism, legal or accounting, computers/ IT, administration, retail and customer service.

“You may be eligible for a Government initiative up to 31 December 2023 where additional earnings may not affect your pension,” she said.

To book into the session visit the Business Port Stephens Facebook page.

YOUR LOCAL HOME CARE PROVIDER

Anna Bay Tavern

Anna Bay Bakery

BYO Cellars Anna Bay

Anna Bay Surf & Skate

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

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

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

Taylors Beach Industrial Cafe

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

Twin Rivers Workwear & Uniforms

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 Ba

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)

Have your say on design and landscape plans for M1 extension

COMMUNITY members are invited to provide feedback on the design and landscape plans for the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace.

The Australian and NSW governments are investing $2.1 billion to deliver the M1 Motorway to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight widening projects.

“On completion, the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace will save motorists up to nine minutes of travel time during peak periods. Motorists will be able to bypass up to five sets of traffic lights and reduce traffic demand on existing key routes,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.

“As the start of major work for M1 extension edges closer, Transport for NSW is calling on community members to share their thoughts on the design and landscaping plans for the project.

“The draft plans are now on public exhibition, giving locals an opportunity to provide feedback on a range of elements such as retaining walls, bridges, lighting, signs, paving types and artwork.

“Another key initiative for the design is an expression of Country and the relationship to the Hunter River through the integration of artwork provided on the safety screens, and the entry to the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens, along with landscape elements at the interchanges and

signposting of Country."

The planned 15-kilometre extension includes a four-lane divided motorway with two lanes in each direction; new interchanges at Black Hill, Tarro, Tomago and Raymond Terrace; and a 2.6-kilometre viaduct over the Hunter River and floodplain, the Main North Rail Line, and the New England Highway.

The spokesperson said the project will provide positive outcomes for the community during construction and on completion.

“The M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace will transform the way people travel in and around

the Hunter region and we want the community to be a part of the process,” the spokesperson said.

“The project will create and support around 2700 jobs during the estimated five years of construction.

“Now as we come down to the exciting part, we want to hear from the community. “People can view the draft design and landscape plans and provide their feedback either online or by attending one of our community information sessions.”

The project team will also host a series of in-person and online consultation and information sessions to provide an overview of the plan and answer any questions.

Webinars, using the

‘Teams’ platform, will be held on Friday 15 September from 12pm to 1pm and Thursday 21 September from 6pm to 7pm.

There will also be community events on Thursday 14 September from 10am to 1pm at Beresfield Community Hall and Wednesday 20 September from 4pm to 7pm at Raymond Terrace Senior Citizens Hall.

The extension is expected to be open to traffic in 2028.

The Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace on an 80:20 basis.

More information about the design and landscape plans is available at: http://www. caportal.com.au/tfnsw/m1rt

q Northern contract section - Heatherbrae bypass: Aerial view from north.

Quiet August for Marine Rescue volunteers after record three month period

AFTER three consecutive months of record rescues, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have responded to their lowest number of incidents this year, completing 223 rescue missions across the state in August.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex

q Marine Rescue NSW volunteers safely returned 449 people to shore from the 223 rescue missions in August

Barrell said the reduction in rescue responses during August is testament to boaters doing the right thing on the state’s waterways.

“The best result would be to have zero rescues but from the August statistics it is clear that boaters across NSW have been planning

their voyage, checking the weather, ensuring their vessel is maintained and that they are carrying the appropriate safety equipment.

“It’s wonderful to see that our safe boating messages are being received and acted on.

“With the boating season commencing at the start of October we hope this behaviour continues.

“Marine Rescue NSW is expecting a bumper season on the back of record numbers of boaters enjoying our beautiful state’s waterways,” Commissioner Barrell said.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers safely returned 449 people to shore from the 223 rescue missions in August.

Ten MAYDAY calls were received last month, while Marine Rescue NSW volunteers managed 19,412 radio calls.

Volunteers in the Hunter/Central Coast responded to 70 incidents, with 12 incidents in Port Stephens.

By Marian SAMPSON

AS the debate around the development of offshore wind farms off the Hunter coast continues to circulate, locals are attempting to ascertain if the clean energy generation benefits outweigh the potential environmental costs.

With floating offshore wind a fledgling industry in Australia, studies into the environmental impacts have not yet been completed locally.

Internationally however, where the offshore wind industry is up and operating, the results of impact studies are mixed.

In 2022, a study titled ‘Unravelling the ecological impacts of large-scale offshore wind farms in the Mediterranean Sea’, published in Science of The Total Environment, found that offshore wind farms (OWF) pose serious environmental risks to the Mediterranean Sea.

The study also found that OWF models cannot be simply imported from the northern European seas to other seas and that OWF developments should be excluded from areas of high biodiversity and/or high valuable seascape.

The research also suggested that OWF development should be forbidden in or in the vicinity of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

“The need for alternative energy systems like offshore wind power to move towards the Green Deal objectives is undeniable,” the study reads, authored by Josep Lloret, Antonio Turiel, Jordi Solé, Elisa Berdalet, Ana Sabatés, Alberto Olivares, Josep-Maria Gili, Josep Vila-Subirós and Rafael Sardá.

“However, it is also increasingly clear that biodiversity loss and climate change are interconnected issues that must be tackled in unison.

“In this paper we highlight

that offshore wind farms in the Mediterranean Sea pose serious environmental risks to the seabed and the biodiversity of many areas due to the particular ecological and socioeconomic characteristics and vulnerability of this semienclosed sea.

“The Mediterranean Sea hosts a high diversity of species and habitats, many of which are threatened.

“Furthermore, valuable species, habitats, and seascapes for citizens' health and well-being coexist with compounding effects of other economic activities (cruises, maritime transport, tourism activities, fisheries and aquaculture) in a busy space on a narrower continental shelf than in other European seas.

“The risks of implementing these wind farms in the Mediterranean Sea have not yet been well evaluated and, considering the Precautionary Principle incorporated into the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, they should not be ignored.

“The trade-off between the benefits (climate goals) and risks (environmental and socioeconomic impacts) of OWF could be unbalanced in favour of the risks.”

However, it should be made clear that the Mediterranean is a vastly different marine environment to the offshore wind zone in the Pacific Ocean off Port Stephens.

Another 2022 study, ‘Reviewing the ecological impacts of offshore wind farms’, published in npj Ocean Sustainability, assessed 1353 studies on the impacts of offshore wind.

The study found that offshore energy production can have both positive and negative impacts on marine ecosystems.

Negative impacts are reported in up to ten percent

of the scientific findings, being especially linked to birds, marine mammals, and ecosystem structure.

The study also found that the ecological risks derived from the negative impacts of wind energy devices can vary biogeographically, depending on the environmental characteristics and vulnerability of the affected area.

“The identification of potential significant impacts is, therefore, always casespecific,” wrote the study’s authors, Ibon Galparsoro, Iratxe Menchaca, Joxe Mikel Garmendia, Ángel Borja, Ana D. Maldonado, Gregorio Iglesias and Juan Bald.

“In particular, the real impact of an offshore wind farm on protected species and habitats will show high spatial variability; it must be carefully assessed with respect to local conservation objectives and the affected species/habitats.

“Furthermore, environmental impacts will also depend on the initial state and resilience of the area, which can change dramatically for some ecosystem elements.”

The period for developers to submit feasibility licence applications for proposed offshore wind projects in the Hunter area opened on 8 August 2023 and will close on 14 November 2023.

During the feasibility stage, licence holders must undertake detailed environmental assessments and further stakeholder consultation to advance their specific project proposals.

Construction cannot begin until the feasibility stage is complete, and environmental and other approvals are in place.

In a statement released last week, Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington reassured the community that she heard and understood local concerns over the potential offshore wind development.

She also said the Federal Government was hearing Port Stephens voices on the issue.

“When it was first proposed, the zone was much closer to the coast.

“Following a consultation process conducted by the Federal Government, and significant feedback particularly from our community, the approved zone was moved further offshore.

“The revised zone now begins 20km off our coast.”

Ms Washington also reminded the community that no wind farm has been approved in the zone, nor have any applications been made.

“I am advised by the Federal Government that companies may now express

interest to undertake feasibility studies to determine whether they lodge an application.

“I have sought a briefing from the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to share community feedback and understand ‘next steps’.”

It is anticipated that the briefing will take place within the next fortnight.

“Given there is a lot at stake, facts are incredibly important,” Ms Washington said.

“So following the briefing, when I have more facts, I will share them with the community,” she said.

“I’d like you to know that I have received a range of views on the proposal, but it doesn’t mean we are a divided community.

“Regardless of your views, I know everyone is seeking the same outcome - what’s best for beautiful Port Stephens and our environment, now and into the future.

“On that, we are united - I will keep you updated as I learn more,” she pledged. A community meeting to discuss offshore wind development is being held on 17 September at Nelson Bay Community Hall at 4pm.

q A humpback whale off the coast of Port Stephens. Concerns are held regarding the impact of potential offshore wind development off the Hunter coast on the species.

Photo: Bonita Holmes-Nu'u on board Aquamarine Adventures.

Seniors Australia say pension increase not enough

By Marian SAMPSON

MORE than 5.5 million Australians will receive an increase to their income support payments and pensions when indexation takes effect on 20 September.

From that date the Age Pension, Veteran Payment, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment will receive an increase.

Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson told News Of The Area that tens of thousands of people in the Paterson electorate will see the benefits.

“For the over 39,000 people in our electorate who are receiving Commonwealth Government Assistance in the form of a Pension or a working-age payment such as Jobseeker and will receive an indexation increase on 20 September, I am so pleased that our government is continuing to support people when and where they need it most.”

The maximum rate of the single Age Pension will rise by $32.70 per fortnight, taking it from $1064 to $1096.70.

For couples the rate will rise by $49.40 per fortnight, taking their combined payment from $1604 to $1653.40.

National Seniors Australia Chief Advocate Ian Henschke said while people who rely on the Age Pension will welcome the increase, under the current system pensioners are still behind, especially when inflation is unusually high.

Several other government payments will also be increased on 20 September in line

with announcements made in the May Budget.

Single JobSeeker Payment recipients will receive a base payment of $749.20 per fortnight, a $56.10 increase.

For JobSeeker recipients aged 55-59 unemployed for more than nine months, the payment increase will be $96.10 per fortnight.

National Seniors Australia have welcomed a 15 percent increase to Commonwealth Rent Assistance, but again believe more needs to be done.

The maximum rate for a single renter will rise by $27.60 to $184.80 per fortnight, for a couple by $26 to $174.

“It’s a good start but more needs to be done to help renters,” Mr Henschke said.

“We recently heard from a couple paying $920 a fortnight in rent.

“As pensioners, this leaves them with only $907.40 a fortnight to pay for food, fuel, utilities, and other expenses.”

Income limits for eligibility for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are increasing by $5,400 to

$95,400 per annum for singles and by $8,640 to $152,640 for couples combined.

“With deeming rates frozen for two years, more self-funded retirees could now be eligible for concessions.

“More can be done to support older people doing it tough.

“As recent National Seniors research showed, a greater proportion of people with low incomes and those who are renting are suffering from cost-of-living pressures,” Mr Henschke said.

“For example, 39 percent of older renters told us they were experiencing severe costof-living impacts compared to only eleven percent of older homeowners.

“What we need is additional targeted support for people with limited means and to stop punishing those who need to work.

“In our Employment White Paper Submission we have called on the government to simplify the tax and transfer system to boost workforce participation, and with it income and savings.

"We want a change to income test rules for pensioners who want to work and work more.

“This could be achieved by reducing the taper rate from 50c to 32.5c in the dollar to align with the tax system.

“It's simple, fair, will help solve critical workforce shortage, and boost the budget bottom line.”

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the Government recognises Australians are continuing to grapple with cost of living pressures.

“Indexation is a vital mechanism to safeguard the purchasing power of social security payments, ensuring they keep pace with the cost of living,” Minister Rishworth said.

“Higher inflation is being felt most within the homes of those on low fixed incomes and these payments are a lifeline for many Australians who are doing it tough or may need some extra support.”

More details regarding September 2023 indexation is available at http:// www.dss.gov.au/aboutthe-department/benefitspayments/previousindexation-rates.

Community walks together for suicide prevention and remembrance

By Marian SAMPSON

THE community came together to support each

other at the Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Remembrance Walk at Iluka Reserve on the weekend.

The walk is held to remember lives lost to suicide and for many is an emotional day.

Mr Gordon Kelly delivered a Welcome to Country and the Rotary Club Of Nelson Bay catered for those in attendance.

“Our caring community came together in beautiful Boat Harbour this morning,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.

“We walked together to reflect and remember.

“Many thanks to the team at Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network (PSSPN) for creating a safe space for important conversations,” she said.

The PSSN is a local initiative funded by donations and created to raise awareness about the extensive impacts of suicide.

The organisation has

recently added a weekly Men’s BBQ to their support and training activities.

The BBQ is held at the Yacaaba Centre on Donald Street, Nelson Bay every Friday from 12 noon to 2pm.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for crisis assistance.

Wednesday 18th October 2023 Soldiers Point Bowling Club

Doors open 7AM Breakfast 7:30AM - 9:30AM

Guest

"We

q The Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network Committee.

q Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington speaking at the event.

q Just some of those who participated in the Remembrance Walk over the weekend.

Jacob chops the curls for cancer research

By Pat JENSEN

AFTER four long years of growing out his luscious locks, eleven-year-old Jacob Randall has chopped it all off to raise money and awareness for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation (CBCF).

With the fundraiser still open for donations, Jacob has raised a whopping $4,310 (at the time of writing).

Jacob made the decision to fundraise in honour of family members and friends impacted by brain cancer.

The big chop took place

on Monday 28 August at Wirreanda Public School in Medowie, where Jacob was surrounded by his supportive family and school friends.

Jacob and his family took time to thank Wirreanda Public School, hairdresser Vanessa Hobbs, who kindly donated her time to the cause, and everybody else who supported the fundraiser with donations and encouragement.

Not wanting to see his curls go to waste, Jacob sent them off to ‘Wigs For Kids’.

The hair will now be used to make one or more wigs for children who have lost hair to medical illness or cancer treatment.

Wigs for Kids is run by the Kids With Cancer Foundation in conjunction

PORT STEPHENS COMMITTEE

PORT STEPHENS COMMITTEE

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RAFFLES COMMENCE AFTER LUNCH APPROX 1.30PM

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with Ella Wigmakers, based in Narara on the Central Coast.

One of the main reasons Jacob was inspired to fundraise was his cousin, Kieran, who was diagnosed with Tectal Glioma, a type of

brain cancer, on 13 October 2014.

Only five days after this tragic diagnosis, thirteenyear-old Kieran had his first brain surgery to treat hydrocephalus caused by the tumour.

This was followed by six months of chemotherapy and 33 doses of radiation, more than 30 MRIs and eventually a craniotomy and a tumour resection in February 2019 to remove the growing cyst that was wrapped around his brain stem.

Kieran recently turned 22 and has outlived the two to five year prognosis he was given by doctors in late 2017.

Kieran credits “tumour humour” as what got him through this experience, and no doubt helped his family and friends get through as well.

Kieran has gone on to work on the radio and as a stand up comic, continuing to study at university and do charity work for the Brain

Cancer Foundation and the Make a Wish Foundation.

Kieran and his family also established Walk4Brain Cancer Ipswich in 2018, an annual event which raises tens of thousands of dollars for CBCF.

Together with his sister Caitlin, nan Bronwyn, and mum Lauren, Jacob raised almost $3,500 through Walk4Brain Cancer in 2020 and 2021.

Cutting his hair was a new way for Jacob to continue his fundraising efforts.

“I really want to help find a cure for brain cancer because I don’t want anyone

else to go through it like some of my family has,” Jacob said.

Jacob has another cousin, 35-year-old Matt, who has also battled with brain cancer for a number of years, so it was not a massive surprise to Jacob's parents when he said he wanted to try to help with finding a cure.

Jacob was thrilled to have family friend Tracy come and show support on the day of the haircut, who is also a victim of brain cancer.

Jacob’s family are proud beyond words of this inspirational fundraising journey.

q Getting tidied up: Jacob all smiles as he adapts to his new clean cut look.

q The chop is underway: Hairdresser Vanessa Hobbs begins work on Jacob’s long locks.

q Before: Jacob Randall had grown his hair for four years prior to the fundraiser.

q After: Jacob looking sharp after the haircut that raised more than $4300.

Miners Memorial Day

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Hunter Valley is a true mining region.

While it is also famous for

its Semillons, Chardonnays, Shiraz, craft spirits, tourism and food, it is also a region to which many Port Stephens locals travel to for work in

the mines.

The Mining and Energy Union Northern Mining & NSW Energy District held its 26th Annual Memorial Day

Service on 10 September to pay respects to lives lost to coal mining.

The service was held as an acknowledgement to the

almost 1,800 men, women and boys who have lost their lives in the Northern District Coalfields.

MEU Northern Mining & NSW Energy District

President Robin Williams said Memorial Day provides an opportunity for unionists,

mineworkers, bereaved families and all members of the community to come together and reflect on the important role mining plays in the District and the enormous cost paid over many years in workers’ death and injury.

Professor Kelvin Kong to headline Hunter Innovation Festival

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Hunter Innovation Festival is back in October 2023, with this year's iteration including greater involvement from Port Stephens.

Established in 2002, the Hunter Innovation Festival began as an associated event of The Australian Innovation Festival.

The festival has evolved and grown since 2002, but at its core, remains a collaboration that brings together people from throughout the community to meet, be inspired, learn and share ideas.

Each year, the festival is made possible by the dedication and hard work of those who participate in the local innovation ecosystem.

The festival aims to inspire and promote a culture of innovation amongst businesses, researchers, industry, and the wider community to help position the Hunter region as an internationally recognised centre for innovation.

Some of the country’s leading experts across innovation, health, research, and government will headline this year’s Hunter Innovation Festival, with speakers announced for the Thursday 19 October 2023 conference.

Australian business and finance leader and Executive Chairman of Yellow Brick Road Home Loans, Mark Bouris AM, NSW Modern Manufacturing Commissioner Lisa Emerson, and 2021 Newcastle Citizen of the Year and 2023 NAIDOC Person of the Year, proud Worimi man Professor Kelvin Kong, will lead the keynote sections of the conference, each addressing topics certain to spark discussion and collaboration.

Hunter Innovation Festival Chair Alex Brennan says the festival is thrilled to bring together three such outstanding people who have each accomplished incredible personal and professional achievements across diverse sectors.

“We’re excited to have such a high calibre of speakers headline this year’s event,” Brennan said.

“Mark Bouris AM has been

at the forefront of Australian entrepreneurship for decades, having established Australia’s second largest non-bank mortgage lender, Wizard Home Loans, while Lisa Emerson is the first ever Modern Manufacturing Commissioner for NSW and Australia.

“We’re also thrilled to have Professor Kelvin Kong attend.

“He is no doubt one the Hunter region’s most outstanding individuals who will bring a wealth of insight into the future of medical research in our region and across the nation more broadly,” Mr Brennan said.

Mark Bouris AM said he is excited to cover topics ranging from leadership, innovation, success and resilience.

“The growth of the Hunter region is clear, as one of the country’s largest regional economies.

“Within this, the innovation and development of complex industries, such as medical research, technology, and education, all contribute to the communities continued growth.

“It will be interesting to hear first-hand about

this development and what factors have contributed to these advancements, whilst looking ahead to the future of the region.

“The Hunter Innovation Festival presents some amazing opportunities to learn about new emerging technologies and their effect on our commercial landscape and relevant industries, and it is also an opportunity to showcase the amazing level of innovation within the region,” Mr Bouris said.

Professor Kong will be discussing the field of healthcare and how it is experiencing a transformative shift through continuous innovation, and the profound impact this innovation has on health - spanning from advanced medical technologies and treatments to novel healthcare delivery models.

“I’m looking forward to discussing the synergy between technology and medicine, and how breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, telemedicine, genomics, and medical devices are enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalising treatment

plans, and improving patient outcomes,” Mr Kong said.

Rod Henderson, Managing Director and CEO of the innovative Tomago-based Ampcontrol told News Of The Area, “Ampcontrol believes the Hunter region of NSW provides a conducive launchpad for innovative businesses and individuals to challenge the future and transform the world through collaboration.

Cyclists hit the road for sick kids

LAST week Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern New South Wales (RMHC Northern NSW) hosted its 19th annual Ride for Sick Kids (RFSK) event, raising vital funds for seriously ill or injured children and their families.

From Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 September, a team of up to 25 riders cycled over 500 kilometres from Grafton to Newcastle with the aim of raising 1,481

nights of accommodation at a Ronald McDonald House (equivalent to $200,000).

On Saturday morning the riders made their way through Port Stephens, taking time to stop at McDonald’s Williamtown and Salamander Bay.

All funds raised will help RMHC Northern NSW continue to support seriously ill or injured children and their families, including Emma’s family, who have been supported

by the charity since her Leukaemia diagnosis in July last year.

Emma and her family have been able to take a break from the hospital ward in the Ronald McDonald Family Room, which has provided them with a safe haven to meet friends and family, grab a cuppa or do some laundry.

Emma’s siblings, Belle and William, have also been supported by the Ronald McDonald Learning

Program, which has provided them with a tutor so they can keep up with their school work.

“The support we have received from Ronald McDonald House Charities since Emma’s Leukaemia diagnosis has been incredible,” Emma’s mum Alex said.

“As a family we are extremely grateful to have been able to have holistic support for our whole family during this incredibly

difficult time.

“Not only has the Ronald McDonald Family Room in John Hunter Children’s Hospital been crucial, but the support of the Ronald McDonald Learning Program has also meant that both Emma and her siblings have been able to continue their education throughout this time.”

Ross Bingham, CEO for RMHC Northern NSW said before the event, “The challenges the cyclists will

“Ideally located within easy access to worldclass transport links, an internationally renowned university, global leaders in several industries and diverse natural attractions, the Hunter provides an unparalleled location to attract and retain creative talent and bold businesses that can challenge the status quo to support the development of the region and Australia."

face as we ride 500km from Grafton to Newcastle over the next five days is nothing in comparison to the challenges a family faces when their child is diagnosed with a serious illness.

“I’m looking forward to cycling through the communities of the families we serve over the coming days as we raise vital funds to support sick kids and their families.”

The local Northern NSW community can support the fundraiser by donating to a rider at www. rideforsickkids.org.au

q Professor Kelvin Kong will be speaking at the Hunter Innovation Festival in October.

q On Saturday morning the riders made their way through Port Stephens, taking time to stop at McDonald’s Williamtown and Salamander Bay.

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Thursday, 14 September 2023

Public Transport and the Tomaree Coastal Track

DEAR News Of The Area,

ALL those involved with the development of the Tomaree Coastal Track are to be congratulated on an excellent, world class job.

However, having personally walked the entire track and parts thereof, there is an important element missing, public transport.

Most locals will have two cars available.

One can be placed at the beginning of their walk and the other at the end of their planned walk, at one of the many “landing” sites along the track.

However, if you are a tourist you are likely to only have one car available.

There are no ‘circular’ routes along this track, therefore tourists will have to plan their walk to be able to return to their cars, limiting the potential of this great walk.

Getting back to Birubi from Tomaree Head after a 27 km walk could prove challenging.

A regular shuttle service running between the various “landing” points along the walk (Tomaree head, Fingal, One Mile, Boat Harbour and Birubi) would resolve this issue.

There is no need for big diesel buses, small, preferably electric minibuses would be adequate, for travelling this route. In addition to providing an excellent tourist service this would also provide an additional public transport service for locals and alleviate the need for two cars every time you go for a walk along this magnificent coastal track.

Regards,

Iain WATT, President, EcoNetwork.

Dorin’s Draws By

Paul DORIN

On theCouch

Dear Jasminda,

MY local baker calls me by my first name but I have no idea what his name is and now I feel as though I have left it too long to ask.

I feel really rude just answering back with a vague greeting and he is always in the shop so I can't ask one of the other staff.

What should I do?

Dear Mrs RP,

Seaside Singers ready to take the

Mrs RP.

I SUPPOSE I need to ask how the baker came to know your name.

I'm assuming at one stage you both introduced yourselves. He remembered, and you promptly forgot. It is an easy thing to do. Some people are brilliant at remembering names and others always remember a face.

As a starting point, do you know any other people who frequent the bakery? Maybe you could ask around. Surely one of them knows this person's name. Alternatively you could take a friend into the bakery with you and have your friend introduce themselves to the baker while you pretend to be consumed with deciding whether to buy six rum balls or a lamington slab (hint: go with the rum balls). You will then overhear his name.

The next important step is to commit it to memory so you don't forget again. You can do this by associating the name with something. For example if his name is Peter, you can remember his name by coming up with a jingle like: Peter makes particularly pleasant pies.

Of course, if you have an issue remembering the name Peter, perhaps expecting you to retain an entire alliterative sentence is a bit presumptuous.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

something like that, we aren’t here to sing opera or that kind of music.

“It is enjoyable music that people can toe-tap to or just sit back and reminisce and remember.”

Choir membership has myriad benefits as people age, according to Libby.

“There is a great social element.

“It is also good for memory and for all sorts of things as you get older.

“The average age would be… getting on,” Libby laughed.

“A lot of us sit down, a lot of us can’t stand up for too long.”

Libby, an alto, moved to Port Stephens in 2018 after visiting the area for 30 years.

“I was in a choir when I left Sydney, and the first thing I had to do up here was to find another one, which I did.

“I have made a lot of friends through it.”

The Seaside Singers perform two major concerts annually; the Spring concert and a concert earlier in the year, usually around Seniors Week.

ON Saturday 16 September the Seaside Singers will take to the stage at the Soldiers Point Bowling Club, with their Annual Spring Concert the culmination of several months of tireless preparation.

“It takes about a third of a year to practise,” said recently elected Seaside Singers president Libby Booth.

“All the different sections – the altos, the

men and the sopranos – all meet and rehearse in their own groups once a week.

“Then we get together with the full choir the next night and practise the songs we are learning, with Robyne Egan conducting.”

The Seaside Singers are a passionate local community choir, started in around 2009 by Diana Souter and her husband Ronald.

“Everyone in the choir is a local.

“There are no auditions required to join the choir, it is just people that like to sing and get together.

“We accept everyone, so long as you love to sing.”

Libby said the choir was designed to be fun and didn’t take itself too seriously.

“We are called the Seaside Singers, we don’t call ourselves the ‘Royal Gala Choir’ or

The choir’s Annual Spring Concert is on Saturday, 16 September at 2pm in the Soldiers Point Bowling Club Auditorium.

Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for concessions (seniors and students) and children under 15 are free.

You can book and buy your tickets by phoning the Bowling Club on 4982 7173 or visit the club in person.

READING by Lynne Miles: Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.""

q The Seaside Singers in 2021.

Stinker’s History: Rabbits ran wild

Stinker’s Fishin’ and Stories

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

IN the 1880s New South Wales farmers were experiencing a monumental rabbit plague that threatened their very livelihood.

In an attempt to eradicate the rabbits, the Rabbit Destruction Fund Committee brought a Frenchman, Dr Jean Dansyz, to Australia.

In July 1906 it was

reported in the Pastoralists Review that Broughton Island was being fitted up as a Bacteriological Institute.

“The study of rabbit diseases will be the prime object at first but all diseases in stock, grains or fruit will possibly be studied as well.

“Buildings have been erected and the laboratory is now being fitted with the most modern appliances.

“Rabbits are breeding rapidly and sheep, horses and cattle for experimental work are doing well.

“Broughton Island is an ideal spot for the work

proposed and Dr Danysz, of the Pasteur Institute, expressed himself as being delighted.”

The report proved to be rather inaccurate as the experiment only involved rabbits - no sheep, horses or cattle ever set foot on the island for research purposes. The results of the research proved to be a failure, with the rabbits remaining on the island and the Frenchman returning to Paris.

The rabbits were finally eradicated from the island by NPWS in 2011.

Stinker’s Fishing: Big ones down south

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

A CHAMPION Fingal Bay

fishing team of Peter Jobe and Scott Quinn were well

rewarded when they broke from their traditional fishing grounds and chased snapper by travelling north rather than south.

Launching in Kiddies Corner, the boys crossed Fingal Bay and motored out past the Outer Light to anchor on the reef just north of Shark

q Fingal champ Peter Jobe with a couple of cracker Fingal snapper.

Rare ‘Spango’ catch leaves local fisherman stoked

north western Australia and tropical waters of the IndoPacific region.

“Fishing is a massive part

By Pat JENSEN

23-YEAR-OLD local fisherman Jack Hammond has reeled in one to remember.

Late last month Jack managed to pull in a Lethrinus nebulosus, also known as a Spangled Emperor or a NorthWest Snapper; a species quite rare to the Port Stephens area.

“I was targeting Snapper in the washes around Broughton Island off Port Stephens at mid-afternoon in ten metres of water in an area I knew was renowned for big snapper after previous successes,” Jack said.

The Spangled Emperor is more commonly found in

of my life as I have grown up in a beautiful part of the world in Port Stephens,” Jack said.

Island.

This was a major change in direction as the Rocky Point reefs are normally their preferred snapper destination. With a gentle breeze at their backs the two-man crew dropped the anchor as a berley trail was established and the boat was surrounded by slimy mackerel.

Peter and Scott, like me, are bait fishers rather than plastic tossers. We agree that the very best bait for snapper is fresh slimy mackerel, either filleted or cubed.

In the event when slimies are unavailable, cubed yellowtail or fresh bonito will do the trick.

Big green prawns from the supermarket will also add to the bag.

Back to Shark Island where the first unweighted baits are making their way to the rocky bottom.

Whammo!

Something big and mean attacked the fresh slimy fillet and headed straight for Boondelbah Island. After a mighty battle Scott landed a cracker 6kg snapper minutes

before Peter landed a similar fish. The bite was red hot as bait after bait was smashed by thumpers over 5kg.

With seven super snapper on board it was decided that it wasn’t necessary to reach their bag limit with fish as big as those.

With the snapper biting like piranha the anchor was lifted and the team headed home.

I asked Scott whether he would now be concentrating his efforts north of Fingal.

“No mate, the big ones are down south.”

“I spent a lot of time on the water as a kid as fishing was brought into my life at the young age of four-yearsold by my father.”

Pleased with his latest capture, Jack has his sights set on another trophy fishing achievement.

“I am still on the hunt for the magic metre flathead!

“My current personal best is 96 centimetres but all the trophy fish in between has definitely kept me motivated to chase that metre goal,” Jack said.

When Jack isn’t out catching massive trophy fish,

he is working full time as a mechanical mitter on the heavy infrastructure at the Port of Newcastle.

He is also a Simrad ambassador and a part of the Shimano Pro Staff team

“Over the years I have learnt alot from fishing and have found out it’s definitely not an easy sport to walk into and catch a trophy fish every trip, but the grind and the hard work I put into trying to break my records is definitely what motivates me to continue on my journey as you never know what the next trip will bring,” said Jack.

q The research base built on the knoll above Esmeralda Cove on Broughton Island.

q Jack Hammond with his rare catch.

q Jack can regularly be found chasing big fish in the waters off Port Stephens.

U3A takes educational mini-break to Sydney

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Port Stephens University of the Third Age (U3A) recently undertook what has been described as a ‘perfect three day city educational holiday for seniors’.

A total of 32 U3A members and friends travelled by Aldinga Tour Coach and stayed at the Park Royal Parramatta.

“The group thoroughly enjoyed personal tours of Old Government House Parramatta, the Opera House and Museum, plus walking the grounds of Auburn’s Botanical Gardens and the fantastic aviary,” Julie McAllister told News Of The Area.

For some of the seniors the trip was a test of their fitness, working up ample steps per day while enjoying the sights in excellent spring weather.

“Socialising together over lunches and dinners was

another highlight,” Julie said. Trip organiser Patricia Diemar was warmly thanked for her excellent work in planning this extended tour.

“All the group on board, as well as our bus driver, Paul, truly appreciated her attention to every detail,” Julie

said. Patricia said it was a pleasure to host the group and “see everyone enjoying themselves”.

“They made my job much easier by their attention to timetable,” she added.

The U3A holds a regular

Cuppa and Chat on the first Wednesday of each month at 1:30pm in the Community Centre Waratah Room to discuss forthcoming activities.

If you are interested in finding out more about your local U3A visit www.nsw. u3anet.org.au.

q Members and friends of the Port Stephens U3A on their Sydney visit.

By Pat JENSEN

JOHN Mcllrath has been a diehard fan and player of the game of bridge for over 35

years.

“Personally, bridge has been my life since 1988,” said John, who serves as the President of Tomaree Bridge Club.

John feels extremely fortunate to have recently

Nelson Bay Golf Club

SUNDAY 3 September 2023

Ladies Stableford: Gymea Lily Course

Over-all Winners

1 Fran Giudes (18) 40:

2 Norma Smith (31) 39

Men’s Stableford:

Gymea Lily Course

Over-all Winners

1 Matthew Ferguson (13) 41:

2 Peter A Elliott (19) 39

Monday 4 September 2023

Vets Stableford:

DIV 1:

1 David Diemar 22:

2 Neil Edwards 20

DIV 2:

1 Robert Rollason 22:

2 John Priddy 22

Tuesday 5 September 2023

Ladies Par Stab: Brush Course

A1 Barbara Frost (18) +2

A2 Bernice Ticehurst (27) +1 c/b

A3 Julie Newsham (24) +1

B1 Pat Harrold (35) +1 c/b

B2 Roz Welsh (29) +1

B3 Norma Smith (28) -2 c/b

Ladies Stableford 9 Hole:

Brushbox Course

Overall, Winners

1 Lorraine Parker (54) 20

2 Meg Flack (38) 16 c/b

Wednesday 6 September 2023

Men’s Stableford: rushbox Course

A1 Clifford Fallan (3) 40

A2 Shaun O’Malley (0) 37

B1 Robert McLean (17) 38c/b

B2 Bob Justice (23) 38

C1 Simon Garrett (24) 39

C2 Ron Gabb (32) 36

Men’s Stableford:

Xmas Bush Course

A1 Graeme Eaton (14) 38c/b

A2 Steve Conrades (15) 38c/b

B1 John Fitzgerald (21) 41c/b

B2 David Schmarr (23) 41

captained the Australian national seniors team as a nonplayer in Marrakech, Morocco at the 46th World Team Bridge Championships.

Tomaree Bridge Club is a not-for-profit community based organisation that hosts three sessions a week at the Elizabeth Waring Function Rooms in Nelson Bay.

The Club also runs regular tournaments.

On the last weekend of October, the Club’s annual Congress event is scheduled to take place at Horizons Golf

Resort in Salamander Bay.

Bridge Club to host annual Congress event

“It’s a weekend event where people from anywhere around New South Wales can come and experience Port Stephens and see what is in the area,” John said.

On the Saturday, the winners of the Pairs event will be presented with the Kate Washington Trophy and Teams winners will play for the TBIB Cup.

Bridge is an international card game which can be played by two people as a pair, or in teams of four, and is accessible

for beginners.

“The beauty about bridge is that a beginner can be playing against a world champion,” said John.

Starting the first week of October, Tomaree Bridge Club will commence intermediate bridge lessons.

Next year, they will start providing classes for complete beginners.

The Australian Bridge

Federation consists of 357 clubs.

Some are privately owned, however the majority are run and operated by volunteers.

The Tomaree Bridge Club operates under the New South Wales Bridge Association, is recognised by the International Olympic Committee, and is a member of Business Port Stephens and the Tomaree Sports Council.

C1 Robert Mitchell (32) 39

C2 Christopher Dunn (25) 37

Thursday 7 September 2023

Mens: Stableford Place

Getters

1 Peter Campbell (16) 36

Ladies Stableford:

Xmas Bush Course

1 Barbara Frost (19) 42 c/b

A2 Wendy Heapy (27) 42

A3 Nicola Bethwaite (25) 37 c/b

B1 Julie-Anne Taylor (39) 40

B2 Judy Fisher (40) 39

B3 Ruth Buchanan (36) 37 c/b

Mens Vets: Stableford

1 Tony Curtayne 24

2 Michael Gardener 22

Friday 8 September 2023

Men’s Stableford:

Gymea Lily Course

A1 Peter Sutton (11) 39

A2 Blake Dawes (11) 35

B1 Martyn Jeggo (17) 38

B2 Peter Melham (16) 37

C1 Steve Punshon (30) 38

C2 Gordon Dyer (45) 37 C/B

Ladies Stableford:

Gymea Lily Course

1 Anne Milne (35) 35 C/B

2 Diana Johnson (22) 35

3 Nicola Bethwaite (25) 34 C/B

Saturday 9 September 2023

Men’s Stableford:

Xmas Bush Course

A1 Steve Barnett (15) 37

A2 Callum Gascoigne (10) 34c/b

B1 John Mannering (18) 40

B2 Kevin Hitchen (16) 39c/b

C1 Rodney Worthington (26) 37

C2 Bradley Foley (29) 33c/b

Men’s Mon Medal Stroke

Gymea Lily Course

Overall, winner: Dale Harris (30) 68c/b

A1 Phil Donoso (14) 72c/b

A2 Ron Castles (13) 72

A3 Vito Massaioli (13) 72

B1 Mark Holley (22) 70c/b

B2 Marc Pasani (21) 70

B3 Stephen Spillane (16) 71

C1 Dale Harris (30) 68c/b

C2 Doug Rowse (34) 68

C3 Robert Connor (25) 71

q Patricia Diemar was the organiser of the U3A’s recent Sydney trip.

q Tomaree Bridge Club members Paul Weaver, Di Coats, Jan Clarke and Terry Bodycote.

q The Club will host their annual Congress in October at the Horizons Golf Resort.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Positive Behaviour for Learning Program (PBL) works to instil citizenship and caring into the school community, traits students then take with them into the world.

Craig Partridge, Principal of Seaham Public School told News Of The Area, “Seaham Public School continues to use PBL as a positive framework for teaching students positive behaviour in all settings.

“Students are currently showing safe behaviour with a focus on moving safely around the school.

“Students are rewarded with a token when they are observed walking on hard surfaces.

“A whole school reward will be achieved when we reach the token level on our PBL container.

“Students vote on their reward which may include a disco, additional play time or

an additional sports activity,” Mr Partridge said.

The PBL Program recognises that not every student will excel in sport or academia.

For those that prove to be kind and community driven citizens, the PBL awards fill a gap in recognition.

The nominees this week are well deserving, all having demonstrated PBL values.

• Irrawang Public School student Lilly Bettini was nominated for supporting younger students. She assisted kindergarten students to follow our school expectations during NAIDOC Day celebrations which was a great help to teachers.

• Raymond Terrace Public School’s Oliver O’Brien was nominated for his inclusion of other students in playground games - not just letting them play but

helping them to play.

• Skylar Williams of Grahamstown Public School was nominated because she is always taking part in community events and celebrating different cultures.

• Irrawang High School’s Olivia Ray was nominated for demonstrating wonderful leadership as Junior AECG President.

• Xanthiah Roach of

Hunter River High School was nominated for her outstanding leadership in Wongagee Dance.

• Salt Ash Public School student Harlow Turner was nominated for supporting a new student by showing her around the school.

Harlow can always be relied upon to be kind and caring towards other students.

• Medowie Public School’s Braxton Jones was nominated for his responsible and courageous actions.

Braxton assisted a community member who was being harassed when walking her dog by other dogs in the neighbourhood. He raced to assist to keep her and the dog safe.

• Seaham Public School’s Stevie Lilley was nominated for being a quiet achiever who volunteers most of her lunchtimes to

care for the school garden. Stevie works well with others and shows responsibility and leadership.

• Karuah Public School’s Lachlan Mozetic was nominated for his integrity and responsibility.

When Lachlan found a wallet in the local IGA carpark, he handed it in and it was returned to the rightful owner. The NOTA congratulates all of this week's PBL award recipients.

q This week's Positive Behaviour for Learning award nominees at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace.

Informative talks, great food and more with Medowie Probus

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Medowie Probus Club has hosted a range of informative speakers in recent months, with more planned for the near future.

The Club welcomes all visitors to their meetings, held at the Medowie Community Centre on the third Wednesday of each month at 10.00 am.

Each meeting includes a guest speaker presentation to entertain members and visitors on a diverse range of subjects.

The Club’s August general meeting featured Rebecca Jaensch from Port Stephens Council as guest speaker to present on the ‘Green Future’.

“Rebecca gave a thorough and entertaining presentation,

focusing on green waste recycling and the waste services in Port Stephens,” the Probus Club’s Kevin Tomlinson told News Of The Area.

“There were many questions to clarify the new waste bins and the need to be diligent to prevent contamination of the green and recycled material was highlighted.

“Rebecca’s presentation received acclamation from members and she was given a small gift from the Club.”

The next guest speaker to present to the Club is News Of The Area’s own John ‘Stinker’ Clarke.

“John will be very entertaining, particularly when we have read his articles in the News Of The Area,” Kevin said.

“We look forward to seeing visitors and new members at our events,” Kevin said.

Aside from the informative talks and discussions, Club members also enjoy regular ‘Munchies’ events, visiting restaurants and eateries around the region and further afield.

Club members recently sampled the Stockton RSL’s offerings as part of one such event.

“The Stockton RSL dining was great, the 3 Scilians Ristorante having recently won the Newcastle and Hunter Region Perfect Plate Award for their pizza,” Kevin said.

For more information email medowieprobus@gmail. com

Balloonist takes on juror role at Women’s World Championships SPORT

By Marian SAMPSON

CORLETTE’S Ruth Wilson has just completed a stint as juror at the Women’s World Hot Air Balloon Championship.

A hot air balloon pilot for many years, Ruth has just participated as one of three FAI approved jurors to rule on protests at the fifth Women’s World Hot Air Ballooning Championship, held from 4 – 9 September this year.

30 teams from thirteen countries descended on the township of Northam, northeast of Perth, to compete for the title of World Champion.

Ruth brings 42 years of competition experience to this role.

In 1981 Ruth was the first and only female to compete against male competitors at the World Hot Air Ballooning

Championship held in Battle Creek, Michigan, USA.

The World Championship event is held every two years, with the next taking place in Nantes, France.

Ruth again was the sole female competitor at that event as she was in 1987 in Austria.

In 2014 the first female only World Championship was held in Poland.

World competition ballooning has undergone

huge changes over the years.

For those first 30 years pilots were permitted to carry only a paper map and compass in their baskets as they worked to find wind directions at various altitudes to find the competition targets. Carrying a radio brought heavy penalties. The thinking of officials

was that using a radio meant receiving help from the ground and was considered cheating.

“Competition pilots today carry a GPS, UHF and VHF radios, computer, Loggers, iPad for Balloon Live App and mobile phones,” Ruth Wilson told News Of The Area.

“The electronic world sits actively now in a balloon

basket, particularly in ballooning competitions,” she said.

Last year Ruth’s autobiography, ‘Conquering Clouds’, was published.

You can find out more about this modern day trail blazing adventurer at www. ruthwilson.net

q Medowie Probus Club members enjoying their monthly ‘Munchies’ event at Stockton.

q Action from the Women’s World Hot Air Balloon Championships.

q Corlette local and juror Ruth Wilson at the 2023 Women’s World Hot Air Balloon Championships.

Family of League Charity Bowls Day Fundraiser

By Chris KARAS

GRAND Final fever has gripped the region with Port Stephens Family of League preparing for their eleventh annual Charity Bowls Day event on Sunday September 24 at Nelson Bay Bowling Club.

Staged just seven days before the NRL Grand Final, the tradition of dressing in your favourite rugby league team colours is encouraged and adds to the feel good atmosphere of the day.

The event is coordinated by Nelson Bay Bowling Club’s hard-working manager Kane Coulls and features Men, Women and Mixed categories with bowler and nonbowler sections that enable participants to compete for major trophies.

Local Family of League treasurer Gerry Mohan told News Of The Area that the Bowls Day was one of three major fundraising events organised by the Port Stephens Family of League Foundation

Young Bumblebees remain hungry for interdistrict championship success

each year.

“We organise a kick off Club Day in February followed by our annual Sportsman’s Dinner and Charity Golf Day at Nelson Bay Golf Club during May and Bowls Day each September to help raise funds that helps the Foundation care for those men, women and children of the rugby league community that may have fallen on hard times,” Gerry quipped.

“Bowlers can take part in the Spider event to open the day and have the opportunity to win succulent seafood raffles on the greens plus bid for a variety of auction items,” he added.

All participants will also be provided with a delicious sit down meal.

The Bowls Day commences at 9.30am.

Cost is $30 per player; teams of four $120 that includes two x ten ends of bowls, hot lunch, green fees and loan of bowls for nonbowlers.

Enquiries to Bill Gainsford on 0412 605 957 or Kane Coulls on 0412 525 663.

By Chris KARAS

THEY have dominated their age division for the past three seasons and produced some stellar moments but the football warriors from the Medowie FC Under 15s don’t have the silverware to show for it.

It has proved to be a mixed period for the young Bumblebees - hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, treacherous weather and a classic goal that would make the great Lionel Messi nod with approval.

What could have easily panned into a championship trifecta has instead left a talented crop of Medowie juniors hungry for trophy success.

Kotara South Tigers shattered Medowie’s championship dreams with a 1-0 victory in the recent Newcastle Football Under 15 Division One interdistrict Grand Final at King Park.

A late second half Tigers goal from a cracking volley kick into the top corner of the net proved the difference in an enthralling contest.

It was a case of so close but yet too far for the well drilled Bumblebees, who had earlier toppled Kotara South in a Grand Final qualifier.

The Hunter region’s “big wet” and COVID wreaked havoc with local sporting

unit since forming in the Under 11 junior ranks.

Under 14 soccer maidens claim championship in bumper campaign for Nelson Bay FC

By Chris KARAS

THEY may have experienced slim pickings in the championship title department but Nelson Bay FC can reflect on a meritorious season in the Newcastle Football Federation.

With twelve of their 20 competitive teams from Under 12s to Zone League

Two qualifying for the interdistrict finals series and five sides reaching Grand Finals, the historic club can be proud of its achievements on the field in 2023.

Nelson Bay are celebrating a championship

triumph, with the Under 14 Girls toppling South Cardiff 1-0 in the Division One trophy decider at Chapman Oval.

An early goal from striker Sophie Barbosa and tenacious defence gave the Stingers the edge in a gripping tussle as the Gunners conceded the title to their nemesis.

Nelson Bay had the wood over the minor premiers this season – finishing on top of their rivals in the preliminary rounds and also securing a 2-0 victory in the major semi final.

It was a tremendous feat by the Stingers, who have developed into a formidable

fixtures during the past two seasons after Medowie FC had established some impressive victories in their age group.

“Our team has been plagued by bad luck in recent seasons despite producing some consistent football,” Medowie coaching guru Matt Morris told News Of The Area.

“The boys chalked up some encouraging wins to lead the competition at various stages but had their premiership hopes dashed when several matches were abandoned,” he revealed.

“This year’s title race also went down to the wire and was won by the Tigers after a spectacular late goal,” Morris

said.

"There wasn’t a struck match between the two clubs with Kotara South winning three of the five fixtures played in the 2023 competition and Medowie two,” he added.

Stand out players for Medowie this season were talented midfielder and skipper Jackson Wolinski, left fullback Curtis Mowbray, central midfielder and the team’s top goal scorer Sebastian Redman.

The team’s lone female player Marley Douglass missed the Grand Final with a damaged ankle but turned in consistent displays at right back.

Other players to show their wares were goalkeeper Kayden Morris, utility fullback Cooper Morrison-Rumbel, utility winger Dylan Lloyd, utility Oliver Gill, fullback Eli Baas, centre back Dewald Karsten, striker James Dolan, midfielder Nicholas Salerno, centre midfielder Riley Burford, right back Sam Mackenzie and right winger Samuel Poole.

As a reward for their impressive performances the creative Wolinski, Bass, Redman and Dolan were blooded in the senior Zone League ranks during the season and showed a maturity that far belied their years.

Under the guidance of astute mentor Rod Lyon and first year coach Warwick Hewitt, the team has built a proud record in their age group that includes finishing premiers as Under 12s (no finals due to COVID), minor premiers and Grand Finalists last season as Under 13s before lifting the championship trophy this year.

A burning desire to bring home some silverware proved a catalyst for the Nelson Bay outfit following a 4-0 Grand Final loss to Swansea after

dominating the competition.

This year’s triumphant squad consisted of goalkeeper Denni Hartfield; defenders Caitlin Ellis, Sophie Field, Ally Commins, Lara Budd and Kayla Sullivan; midfielders Bella Palmer, Robyn Hewitt, Bella Hol, Lily Philips, Sarah Lyon, Evey Jenkins and Giselle Macabulos and forwards Moni Shipton, Breanna Hamilton and Sophie Barbosa.

Assisting Hewitt and Lyon was team manager Greg Field.

The experienced Lyon told News Of The Area, “The core part of the team have been together for the past four seasons.”

“You couldn’t find better ambassadors for the sport –the girls play as a team, always have a positive approach and know their roles and what is expected of their positions,” he stated.

“They’ve always been good listeners, take every game as it comes, enjoy turning up to training and have proved great role models for our younger club members this season,” Lyon added.

Up front the sharpshooting Shipton topped the goalscoring with the team’s resolute defence a key to the Stingers’ success led by

talented keeper Hartfield, defender Field and midfielder Hewitt.

Nelson Bay’s Under 17 Div 1 Girls, Under 15 E Grade Boys and Under 13 Div 1 Boys squads finished runners up after reaching Grand Finals while the Under 14 E Grade Boys team bowed out in the finals after claiming the minor premiership undefeated. The Under 17 Girls, who were beaten 1-0 by Swansea, and the Under 15 E Grade Boys, who lost 2-1 against South Wallsend, were also crowned minor premiers. After winning the Northern NSW Champion of Champions Under 12s Boys title last season, the Under 13 Nelson Bay colts were pipped 2-1 by Maitland.

Nelson Bay’s Zone League 2 first grade men, Over 35s F Grade men, All Age Women B Grade and Over 30s Women all qualified for the finals in the senior ranks.

Last Saturday the Nelson Bay club advanced to the Grand Final of the Zone 2 Reserve Grade mens competition with an emphatic 3-1 victory over Cooks Hill. The minor premiers trailed 1-0 at the interval before second half goals from Steven O’Dea (2) and Billy Graham piloted the club to a fifth Grand Final appearance in 2023.

q Nelson Bay Bowling Club manager Kane Coulls (left) and Bill Gainsford welcome participants to the annual Family of League Charity Bowls Day on September 24.

q Medowie FC’s talented Under 15s squad that finished runners up in this year’s Newcastle Football interdistrict Division One competition.

q Nelson Bay FC’s classy Under 14 Div 1 Girls squad celebrate their Newcastle Football Interdistrict championship title victory over South Cardiff.

BIG CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

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

DEADLINE: 12noon TUESDAYS HOW TO PLACE YOUR NOTICE: EMAIL:

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PORTABLE clothesline

GC, $25. 0413 023 296

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ELECTRIC Heaters

1 Electric 700mm x 360mm 2000 watts

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BBQ, 2 burner, VGC hardly used inc gas bottle, on wheels $110 0427 980 079

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

1 Oil filled 2400 watts $40 for both. Please ring 0404 724 347

ELECTRIC stove, Chef VGC, hardly used. $450 0428 943

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STACER 3.4m tinny with Mariner 15HP outboard UN497N on registered trailer CL6484. VGC ideal Bay runabout Many extras $1,500 Ph: 0414 568 563

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DOLLS. Franklin Heirloom Coca Cola Box type x 2 $50. Collectable Plates from $10 Cut Glass and Silver Plate items also for sale 0409 884 496

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MONDAY NEIGHBOURS

TEN, 4.30pm

FRIDAY WEST SIDE STORY

SEVEN, 8.30pm

Veteran director Steven Spielberg’s almost 50-year career has seen masterpieces such as E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List and Munich, but who would have guessed that his latest – a homage to one of the most influential and loved stories of all time and his first foray into musicals – would also be one of his grandest achievements? Dazzling and passionate, this re-imagining boasts grand, lovingly detailed sets and a poignant soundtrack in an age-old story of doomed love that serenades all the senses.

FRIDAY, September 15

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Josh Byrne visits a gardening radio icon.

8.30 Miniseries: The Control Room. (Ml) Part 3 of 3. Gabe has to think fast – the police are closing in, as well as the criminals who are after their money.

9.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) A woman is killed during a magic show.

11.00 ABC Late News. 11.20 Invictus Games Highlights: Dusseldorf. 11.45 Miniseries: Innocent. (Mal, R)

12.30 Harrow. (Mav, R)

1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

It turns out everybody really does need good neighbours – as the iconic soap makes an unexpected but joyous return after an absence of only 14 months. Thanks to streaming giant Prime Video, who have committed to producing at least 400 new episodes, the residents of Ramsay Street are back, with a slew of changes. Firstly, there’s a new version of the theme The ), and some new faces in the cast –’s Mischa Barton, but are under wraps. Stalwarts such as Alan Fletcher, Jackie Woodburne and Ryan Moloney will be returning, and we’ll also appearances from some

WEDNESDAY FIVE BEDROOMS

TEN, 9pm

Something of a sleeper hit due to its release on Paramount+ before its free-to-air debut, this sentimental comedy follows five singles who banded together to afford a house. In tonight’s episode, “Two Parties”, introvert Harry (Roy Joseph) is the surprising narrator and reluctant organiser of both a hens’ night for Ainsley (Katie Robertson) and Simmo’s (Johnny Carr) buck’s party. Although unwilling to attend either, Harry is roped into both events after shocking news sends Ben (Stephen Peacocke) spiralling. Hoping to escape the drama, Harry heads to the hens’, where Liz (Kat Stewart) has a confession to make. With the season-finale wedding next week, there’s no shortage of juicy storylines to ensure an exciting conclusion.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw)

8.40 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (PGv)

9.40 Tony Robinson: The Thames At Night. (R)

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Unseen. (Premiere, Mals)

12.00 Romulus. (MA15+av, R)

3.40 Destination Flavour. (R)

4.10 Going Places. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00

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

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs, Adam Dovile and Aimee Stanton check out Worldskills Australia.

8.30 MOVIE: West Side Story. (2021, Mv) In ’50s New York, a forbidden love affair blossoms amid the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks over control of the San Juan Hill community, two street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose.

11.40 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl, R) Amateur cooks put their culinary skills to the test in order to prove they have what it takes.

1.30 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Finals Series. First semi-final. Melbourne Storm v Sydney Roosters.

9.45 NRL Finals Footy Post-Match. A post-match NRL wrap-up.

10.30 MOVIE: Sudden Impact. (1983, MA15+alsv, R) A detective investigates a series of murders. Clint Eastwood.

1.00 MOVIE: Cold Sweat. (1970, Mvd, R)

2.50 Talking Honey. (PG) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Postcards. (PG, R)

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

By: Gary WATT

RESULTS from a stableford competition played at Shortland Waters GC. on Monday, 4th September with 25 players. Nett

37pts.

Bonus Point Winner: John D’Este 35pts on C/B.

Bonus Point Runner Up : Brian Marshall 35pts on C/B.

Nearest the Pin, 2nd Hole,

Div 1 : Jim Asvestas. Div 2 : No Winner. Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Gary Gazzard.

Div 2 : Jim Gill.

Drive & Chip, 4th Hole,

Div 1 : Robert Paul.

Div 2 : Dave Hurley.

Drive & Chip, 17th Hole, Div 1 : John D’Este.

Div 2 : Jim Gill.

Ball Winners : Jim Asvestas 35pts,

John McDonald 35pts, Gary Gazzard 34pts, John Johnstone 34pts, Ralph Brown 34pts, Jim Gill 33pts, Ross Dobson 33pts, and Denis Barnett 32pts. Lucky Prize Draw

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

7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mal, R) Guests include Geena Davis, Stephen Graham, Motsi Mabuse and Stormzy.

10.30 Just For Laughs Australia. (MA15+s, R) Hosted by Nath Valvo.

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

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

Winner : Dave Hurley. Next Weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC, 7:30am start.

Visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.

SATURDAY, September 16

6.30 Kitchen Cabinet. (R) Annabel Crabb meets Karen Andrews.

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

7.30 Shakespeare And Hathaway. (Return, Ma) Spider calls on Frank and Lu for help.

8.20 Vera. (Mv, R) Vera investigates the death of a businessman whose body was found under a bridge.

9.50 The Newsreader. (Ml, R)

It is election night 1987.

10.45 Invictus Games Highlights: Dusseldorf. Highlights of the Invictus Games.

11.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 Queen Victoria’s Royal Mob. (Mlv)

9.25 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R)

10.15 Tony Robinson’s History Of Britain. (PGav, R)

11.05 Rex In Rome. (Masv, R)

12.55 Suspect. (MA15+av, R)

2.35 UFOs. (PGa, R) 3.40 Destination Flavour. (R)

4.10 Going Places. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SUNDAY, September 17

6.30 Voices Of Australia. (Premiere)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

A lottery winner is found dead.

8.30 The Newsreader. (Ml)

The country is rocked by a mass shooting in the heart of Melbourne.

9.30 Mother And Son. (PG, R) Maggie takes in a Ghanaian lodger.

10.00 Annika. (Ma, R) A case takes the team to the Isle of Bute.

10.50 Total Control. (MA15+l, R)

11.40 Talking Heads. (PG, R)

12.25 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.00 Escape From The City. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Body On Somerton Beach. (Ma)

8.20 Incas: The New Story. (Mad)

10.00 Relics Of Egypt: Exploring The Largest Museum. (PG, R)

11.00 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)

12.50 My Childhood, My Country: 20 Years In Afghanistan. (Ma, R)

2.30 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? (PGa, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Finals Series. Second semi-final. Port Adelaide v GWS Giants. From Adelaide Oval.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. A wrap-up of the game, including panel discussion and interviews, with access to players, coaches and staff.

11.00 The Voice. (PG, R) The artists from Team Guy and Team Jason will take to the stage to fight for a place in the semi-final. Hosted by Sonia Kruger, with coaches Jason Derulo, Rita Ora, Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy.

1.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.40 NRLW Wrap. (PG)

8.10 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 9. St George Illawarra Dragons v Brisbane Broncos.

10.00 Rugby World Cup: Highlights.

11.00 MOVIE: Just Mercy. (2019, Ma)

1.30 Drive TV. (PG, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands.

6.00 Luxury Escapes.

6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) The lifeguards are on high alert.

7.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.00 Thank God You’re Here. (PGls, R) Hosted by Celia Pacquola.

9.00 MOVIE: Daddy’s Home 2. (2017, PGals, R) Two men plan to have the perfect Christmas, but when their fathers arrive, their holiday is turned into chaos. Will Ferrell, Mark Wahlberg.

11.00 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Authentic. (PG)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Voice. (PG) Hosted by Sonia Kruger.

8.45 Con Girl. (Mal) Part 1 of 4. Charts the story of Australian serial con artist Samantha Azzopardi, who commited crimes around the world, from Australia to Canada and Ireland, using a host of false identities.

11.00 Born To Kill? Peter Moore – The Man In Black. (Mav)

12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 9. Sandown 500. Day 1. Highlights.

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Fishing Australia. (R)

5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today.

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

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGs, R) Follows dog trainer Graeme Hall.

8.30 FBI. (Mv) Maggie reconnects with an old mentor when the team investigates the murder of a professional informant.

9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (MA15+v, R) When a US Navy sailor washes up dead on a sacred site, the NCIS team investigates.

10.30 Five Bedrooms. (Mls, R) Heather’s in a funk.

11.30 The Sunday Project. (R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, September 18

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Round two kicks off with barbecue champions, Aaron and Chris. Hosted by Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge.

9.15 The Rookie. (Mv) When Dim goes missing, Lucy and Tim, along with the CIA, set out to find him and enlist the help of Juicy.

10.15 The Rookie: Feds. (Mv)

TUESDAY, September 19

6.30 The Project.

7.30 The Masked Singer Australia. Hosted by Osher Günsberg.

8.45 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.45 To Be Advised.

10.15 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) A hacker kills a family of three.

11.05 NCIS. (Mv, R)

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

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

7.30 Shark Tank. A panel is pitched inventions.

8.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was.

9.40 NCIS. (Mv, R) Agent Knight’s past resurfaces when NCIS investigates a camp-site murder.

10.40 NCIS: Hawai’i. (MA15+v, R)

11.30 The Project. (R) 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

CBS Mornings.

WEDNESDAY, September 20

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (M) Amateur cooks put their culinary skills to the test in order to prove they have what it takes.

9.15 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGal) Footage of headline-grabbing moments captured on camera by members of the public.

10.15 The Latest: Seven News.

10.45 Talking Finals. Hosted by James Brayshaw.

11.45 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

THURSDAY, September 21

8.30

Searching For Mexico. (PGa)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

7.30 Border Patrol. (PGad) Follows New Zealand border officials.

8.30 Air Crash Investigations: Missed Opportunities. (PGa) Takes a look at the crash of Independent Air Flight 1851 that cost the lives all 144 passengers and crew.

9.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Thank God You’re Here. Hosted by Celia Pacquola.

8.30 Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers. (Mans) Four Aussie mates set out to embarrass each other in a public setting by trying their hand at virtual golf.

9.00 Five Bedrooms. (Mls) Harry organises a hens and bucks.

10.00 So Help Me Todd. (PGa)

11.00 FBI. (Mv, R)

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

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

7.30 Gogglebox Australia. Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows.

8.30 Sam Taunton: Rooster. (MA15+ls) A stand-up performance by Australian Pinder Prize-winning comedian Sam Taunton.

9.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presented by Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald.

10.40 Law & Order: SVU. (MA15+av, R)

12.30 The Project. (R)

1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

~ Proudly Independent

PREMIERSHIP

By Chris KARAS

THE Raymond Terrace Magpies are the toast of Port Stephens after securing back-to-back rugby league premierships in the Newcastle-Hunter Conference.

James Ross’ mighty Magpies were crowned B Grade champions for 2023 after skittling rivals Abermain Hawks 16-6 in last Saturday’s Grand Final at Lakeside Sporting Complex.

The premiership triumph caps off an incredible winning streak for the Magpies who remained undefeated this season and having tasted defeat just once during the team’s past two campaigns.

Superbly led by their half back maestro and inspirational skipper Luke Handsaker, the well drilled Raymond Terrace warriors showed why they are rated one of the finest rugby league combinations in the Hunter region with another stout hearted display of skill and raw power to lift the trophy.

GLORY

An emotional Ross – the Magpies' respected Head Coach – told News Of The Area that his brave charges “shared an unbreakable bond that swept the side to premiership glory”.

“The boys deserve all the accolades –they play with an unbridled passion and have shown their supremacy during a golden period for the club,” a proud Ross reflected.

“A feature of our campaign this year was the team spirit and connection between the players who pledged at the start of the competition to go all the way,” he said.

“From the outset we found a winning groove and proved hard to beat,” Ross added.

Skilful Magpies five eighth Kyle Handford was judged best on ground.

Abermain jumped to an early 6-0 lead with a converted try by fullback Bryce Field before the Magpies hit back with tries by Handford and winger Joel Osborn to grab a 10-6 advantage at the break.

With the rugged Raymond Terrace forwards led by Daine Walker and Jackson MacIntyre taking control and the classy Handford creating havoc there was no stopping the black and whites.

The Magpies sealed victory when centre Robert Chaffey dashed over to score during the second half with Handford adding the extras.

A lion-hearted Handsaker played most of the match in discomfort but showed his leadership qualities with a non-stop display in the number seven jumper.

q Triumphant Raymond Terrace Magpies skipper Luke Handsaker holds aloft the B Grade premiership trophy.