Port Stephens News Of The Area 1 December 2022

Acts Of Kindness

who checks every single card before they are sorted, and packed up for distribution to nursing homes.

By Marian SAMPSON

THE 850 members of the Port Stephens-based Heart Letter Pen movement have reached a major milestone.

The group has delivered 50,000 handmade and handwritten cards to aged care facilities across Australia.

Heart Letter Pen was launched in July 2020 by Corlette local November Sheehan.

“50,000 cards, that’s more than the seating capacity of the Sydney Cricket Ground!” November told News Of The Area.

But how does it work?

Generous souls make beautiful cards which are hand written by others, sending them in bulk packages to November

Some of the nursing homes have hundreds of residents, others as few as twelve, all of whom receive a beautiful handmade card on occasions like Christmas, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

This act of kindness was born through the need for the elderly living in nursing homes to feel valued, connected and cared for by the wider community as they endured Covid lockdowns.

The card makers make sure that every card is special and for some, the simple act of making these cards is a form of therapy in itself.

Donations of cards regularly come flooding into the Post Office, with so many coming in this month that November needed two people and a trolley to get the cards back to the car.

The card makers and those who write messages in the cards remain anonymous.

Culturally sensitive cards and CONTINUED Page 2

q November Sheehan of Heart Letter Pen with some of the cards that she has received in the lead up to Christmas. Photo: Marian Sampson.

By Marian SAMPSON

THE business of local government came to a screeching halt when Port

Stephens Council was unable to field a quorum of councillors to vote on

matters at the Council meeting due to be held on 22 November.

Heart Pen Letter movement reaches 50,000 card milestone

FROM Page 1

cards suitable for those that have not been parents are also selected and included in the care packages.

Not prepared to stop at sending the cards to nursing homes, November and her amazing volunteers have added Newcastle Meals on Wheels to the list of recipients.

This group has already been supplied with 1,200 Thinking Of You cards and are set to receive some extra Christmas cheer as well.

November believes that in a world filled with fast communication like messaging and texts we forget how important the written word is.

For the elderly who grew up receiving and sending mail, the cards are something to treasure and share - some even keep them under their pillows.

“I was told by a staff member in a dementia ward at a nursing home that the residents were holding their cards, closing their eyes

and feeling the textures and smiling.”

November is grateful for the support of Port Stephens East Ward Councillors Leah Anderson, Matt Bailey and Glen Dunkley who assisted Heart Pen Letter this year with a grant and some office supplies which helped the team get Father’s Day cards out to nursing homes around the country.

“What we need most now are prepaid post satchels to get the cards out," November said.

“Our belief is that kindness is real and not manufactured.

“Our new goal is to send out as many cards as we can and we hope to surpass the

seating of the Sydney Cricket Ground and knock the capacity of the Melbourne Cricket Ground for six!”

The MCG seats 100,024 people.

You can check out some of the beautiful cards on the Heart

Letter Pen Facebook page. The organisation does not accept cash donations, however donations of prepaid post satchels would be gratefully accepted - these can be sent to PO Box 222 Nelson Bay 2315.

Council meeting cancelled due to low councillor numbers

FROM Page 1

Port Stephens Council’s General Manager Tim Crosdale told News Of The Area, “The Council meeting scheduled for 22 November 2022 was cancelled due to a lack of a quorum.

“The Local Government Act requires a quorum to be achieved for a council meeting to proceed.

“At Port Stephens, to achieve a quorum six elected members need to be present.

“Apologies were received from Councillors Wells, Kafer and Doohan.

“Council has previously granted leave of absence for Cr Dunkley at its meeting on 27 September 2022 and for Cr Tucker at its meeting on 25 October 2022.

“The items of business for the meeting

q Councillors Arnott and Anderson in the empty council chambers.

Fire bells ringing in Raymond Terrace

By Marian SAMPSON

IT isn’t often that a whole shopping centre is evacuated but that is what happened at Raymond Terrace last Thursday evening, when units from Raymond Terrace and Tarro Fire and Rescue NSW were assigned to an

automatic fire alarm at Terrace Central shopping centre.

Giacomo Arnott, Deputy Captain, Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue NSW told News Of The Area, “It was a false alarm and shoppers were allowed back in shortly after our arrival.

of 22 November 2022 will be included in the agenda for the Council meeting on 13 December 2022,” he said.

The NOTA’s investigations have revealed that of the nineteen Council meetings held in 2022, just eight meetings have had a complete complement of elected Councillors in attendance.

Deputy Mayor Councillor Arnott and Councillor Anderson have attended every meeting.

Councillor Dunkley has missed six meetings, Councillor Kafer four meetings, with the remaining councillors missing between one and three meetings throughout the year.

“I want to thank all of the shoppers and staff who evacuated the centre so promptly and followed our direction when we arrived.

“If you’re ever in a building and the fire alarm goes off, you should immediately find the nearest emergency exit.

“Even if it looks like a false alarm, always treat it as if it's real until Fire and Rescue arrive to check it out,” he said.

q A sample of the cards. Works of art made with love and given to strangers.

Tomaree Headland Concept Plan Released

By Marian SAMPSON

THE future of the iconic Tomaree Headland is now one step closer to being one which fits the aspirations of the Port Stephens community.

Tomaree Headland is the most visited attraction in Port Stephens and during 2018 recorded over 200,000 visitors.

The Tomaree Headland Heritage Group Inc (THHG) commissioned Landscape Architects to develop a Strategic Concept Plan for the potential adaptive re-use of the iconic Tomaree Lodge site in Shoal Bay which is listed on the State Heritage register.

The concept plan has been developed with the financial support of Port Stephens Council and the Shoal Bay Resort and Spa.

The development of this Concept Plan is to demonstrate the potential opportunities which the site offers to both

the Port Stephens community and the authorities.

The concept plan delivers a design framework based on a set of planning principles as well as identifying the constraints and opportunities for the site.

One of the key important matters highlighted in the Concept Plan was the Architects’ in-principle support for the reinstatement of the Jetty to allow public transport such as a ferry service as an opportunity to reduce the reliance on parking.

The plan highlights five key objectives:

• For the NSW Government to commit and complete transition of the Tomaree Lodge site to the Port Stephens Community by ownership or by way of a long term lease;

• That an appropriate ownership/ management model be established for

the adaptive re-use for the Tomaree Lodge site (e.g. a Trust or similar);

• To have finalised and adopted a Master Plan for the adaptive re-use of the Tomaree Lodge site ready for progressive implementation within the next few years;

• To have reinstated the Jetty/Pontoon to provide public transport access/ egress to the Headland summit, also to the recently commenced Tomaree Coastal Walk, Zenith Beach;

• To have in place a Visitor and Information Kiosk (including amenities) at the entry/egress point to the Lodge site.

THHG has kept an open mind on the types of future uses for the site, as the community ideas put forward over the last four years have been extensive with a general focus on education, tourism,

history and cultural activities.

It is also well recognized that World War II military history has a significant presence on the Tomaree Headland and there is a strong view from the community that this deserves recognition in the future of the Tomaree Lodge.

The concept plan emphasises the appeal of the Headland's unique natural beauty, environmental and historical significance and why it needs to operate under the stewardship of the Port Stephens community.

THHG continues to support the establishment of a Management Trust as the future managing authority with broad community and government representation.

THHG President Peter Clough told News Of The Area, “During the last four years of community engagement it has become very clear that the Port Stephens people

Community to discuss crime concerns

YOU are invited to a community discussion regarding crime in the Port Stephens area.

Residents from all areas are encouraged to

attend.

The meeting will be conducted for concerned citizens to discuss current issues around local crime.

Representatives from

Crime Stoppers, NSW Police and Port Stephens Council will be in attendance.

The meeting will be held Thursday, 1 December 2022 at 5.30 pm at the Lemon Tree

GRAND GRAND OPENING OPENING

Atwea College Raymond Terrace

Passage Bowling Club.

News Of the Area will be attending this meeting and will update our readers in next week's edition.

are passionate about the future of the iconic Tomaree Lodge site which was a major consideration when deciding to produce a conceptual planning document which hopefully will serve to whet the appetite of the community.

“The Tomaree Headland

is one of the most iconic sites on the eastern seaboard of Australia and therefore we should be shooting for something world class which will inspire people by attracting their interest and attention,” he said.

Thursday 8th December 9:30am to 12pm 15 William St, Raymond Terrace NSW Take a tour and learn about the courses we offer!

Atwea College (formerly Workers Educational Association Hunter) is one of the largest providers of community based adult learning in NSW.

q Tomaree Headland Heritage Group President Peter Clough at Tomaree Lodge. Photo: Marian Sampson.

Koalas Returned To The Wild

By Marian SAMPSON

THE release of koalas back into the wild is always a milestone to be celebrated by the team at Port Stephens Koala Hospital.

Last weekend the team were able to release not one but two healthy koalas back into their ranges.

Ron Land, President of Port Stephens Koalas, was joined by Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, Port Stephens Councillor and Port Stephens Koala Hospital volunteer Leah Anderson, and Shadow Minister for Environment and Heritage Penny Sharpe to celebrate the release of the koalas.

In what seems like a rather undignified method of transportation, the koalas are placed in two washing baskets,

one atop of the other with bedding for their comfort.

For the release, the baskets are placed at an appropriate tree and the top basket is removed, allowing the koala to take its time to climb to safety.

Leah Anderson told News Of The Area, “Today was an early morning start with my regular Saturday volunteer shift at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital.”

After the yard work was completed Anderson, Washington, Land and Sharpe went to an undisclosed location for the koala releases.

“I had the pleasure of releasing two koalas today in the great company of Kate Washington MP and Penny Sharpe MLC.

“For the team at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital

it’s what we do - rescue, rehabilitate and release,” Anderson explained.

Red Zone to expand due to new Varroa mite detection

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Varroa mite tracing and surveillance work confirmed a new detection of Varroa mite last week, as field officers continue hive inspections with beekeepers across the state.

The detection at a property near Cessnock on 23 November brings the total number of infested premises to 103 since Varroa mite was first identified during routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.

NSW DPI Chief Plant Protection Officer Satendra Kumar said the new infested hives will require an expansion of the current red zone from its borders, and a new biosecurity order has been made.

The current red zone includes Port Stephens LGA and parts of the Myall Coast, including Nerong, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.

“NSW DPI has put significant measures in place to arrest the spread of the threat beyond the

perimeters of the eradication zones,” Mr Kumar said.

“This new detection has been directly traced to an existing infested premises within the eradication zone.

“The purple zone was established to enable the response to delimit the spread of the Varroa mite from the infested sites and our surveillance efforts to date have and continue to provide the response a high level of confidence in containment.”

The response has carried out surveillance on more than 10,000 hives in the purple zone.

Across the state the response staff have surveyed almost 30,000 hives with no Varroa mite detection.

Through the approved hive movement program in the General Emergency Zone, beekeepers have tested over 85,000 hives.

This program has been extended where beekeepers are now required to carry out mandatory alcohol wash surveillance a minimum of every sixteen weeks.

“The cooperation

of industry and the community is vital in helping the response to achieve the goal of eradication.

“DPI can only act on the information provided to us so I strongly encourage beekeepers to ensure they report the results of all mandatory alcohol washes and to notify DPI immediately of any concerns about the suspect presence of Varroa mites,” Mr Kumar said.

Australia is the only major honey producing country free from varroa mite, the most serious pest of honeybees worldwide.

Beekeepers work sideby-side with government as part of Australia’s early warning system to detect exotic honeybee pests, the National Bee Pest Surveillance Program, which includes surveillance hives and catch boxes at strategic locations around our ports and airports.

More information is available from NSW DPI at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/varroa

For those looking to support the rescue and rehabilitation of our local

koalas you can consider making a donation to the Port Stephens Koala Hospital

or perhaps giving a koala adoption to a loved one as a special Christmas gift.

Sofus the Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo

By Marian SAMPSON

OAKVALE Wildlife Park is at the centre of industry excitement after welcoming a Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo joey to the world – the first of its kind born outside a Queensland zoological facility in history.

In February 2019, after working with Dreamworld and Dr Karen Coombes from Tree Roo Rescue and Conservation Centre on a breeding program for this species, Oakvale Wildlife Park became the first institution outside of Queensland to house this near-threatened species in a purpose-built facility.

The breeding program hopes to achieve improved connectivity of populations and encourage genetic exchange. With only an estimated 10,000 to 30,000 Lumholtz Tree Kangaroos left in the wild, the birth of ‘Sofus’

is a significant step forward in preserving this species.

The Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo is endemic to Far North Queensland; they mainly occur at high elevations in rainforests, being rarely found in lowlands.

It is a non-territorial solitary animal, spending 99 percent of its time in trees.

Due to the clearing of their habitat, dog attacks, road accidents and a mystery virus that is likely to cause them to go blind, these kangaroos need protection.

Angela Lambert, Oakvale Wildlife Park’s Curator said, “Our keepers discovered Adel was pregnant in March; since then, they have been tracking and monitoring the growth, development and conducting routine welfare checks on mum and bubs.

“Our team ensures minimal interference in the growth and development of Sofus; this includes currently not knowing the joey’s gender.

“Adel has kept a watchful

eye over her joey as a firsttime mum and guided Sofus when exploring outside the pouch.

“It took around 178 days of developing inside Adel’s pouch before Sofus popped their head out of the pouch; you should have heard the cheers from our team.

“It is an exciting and historical time for the keepers working directly with our Lumholtz Tree Kangaroos.

“Sofus will bring some valuable new genetics to the breeding program to assist in preserving this amazing animal,” Angela said.

“In the wild, the Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo is a solitary animal; however, after being born, a joey will stay with its mother for one and a half to two years, and the mother will teach it how to climb and navigate trees and also explore what different food they can eat.

“Males do not have a role in raising the young, so Csi will remain separate.”

q Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington with Port Stephens Koala Hospital President Ron Land, Shadow Minister for Environment and Heritage Penny Sharpe and Port Stephens Councillor and Port Stephens Koala Hospital volunteer Leah Anderson at the release site.

q A very agile Mel leaves her care basket and climbs back into a koala feed tree in her natural habitat.

q The Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo joey in its mother’s pouch at Oakvale Wildlife Park.

q The Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo joey at Oakvale Wildlife Park.

Native Stingless Bees at risk from Varroa Mite baiting program

poisoning for up to three years.

That is the advice of Dr Anne Dollin, Chair of the Australian Native Bee Association Varroa Response Subcommittee.

"Your bees could soon be exposed to a very toxic pesticide, so you need to consider moving them to a safe location."

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is about to begin using Fipronil, a toxic pesticide, to eradicate Varroa Mites within the Red Zones in the Port Stephens area.

The Australian Native Bee Association (ABNA) fears native stingless bees within these areas will be at risk of

The DPI program aims to destroy feral nests of European honeybees in the Red Zones, as these nests may harbour Varroa Mites.

Strict protocols are in place to prevent native insects, reptiles, birds and mammals from accessing the Fipronillaced sugar syrup in the DPI baiting stations.

However, according to the ABNA, the feral European honeybee nests that are killed by the baiting will contain Fipronil-contaminated honey, and this could attract native stingless bees.

The honey in the feral nests may continue to be toxic to native stingless bees for up to three years.

The ANBA provides detailed information on their website about the Varroa Mite baiting risks, with advice for stingless bee owners.

If possible, owners should consider moving their hives to a safe location outside the Red Zones for up to three years.

The ANBA has also launched a rescue program to help owners who do not have a safe place to take their hives, visit https://www.anba.org. au/varroa-response.

The ABNA says natural nests of native stingless bees are at risk of poisoning within the Red Zones too. Information for people who would like to help those nests is also available on this ANBA webpage.

"The aim of our Australian Native Bee Association campaign is to help people move their stingless bees out of the Red Zones and keep the bees safe and strong,” Dr Dollin said.

“Afterwards, when the

hives are brought back, they will help repopulate the Red Zone areas."

To read the DPI's advice for people who keep native stingless bees in the Red Zones, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/emergencies/biosecurity/

current-situation/varroamite-emergency-response/ wild-european-honey-beemanagement

For further Information or to request help for your stingless bees, email varroa@ anba.org.au.

Lions Club to serve up 1,000 Driver Reviver cuppas

By Marian SAMPSON

BORN from the terrible statistics associated with the

holiday road toll is the Driver Reviver program. An Australian institution, the Driver Reviver program

operates nationwide during school holidays and over longweekends to reduce fatiguerelated crashes on our roads.

Driver Reviver has been a part of our community since 1990, with sites offering toilet facilities, shade, seating and water.

Some offer activities for children, baby change tables and pet bowls.

Operating days/times vary between sites.

Some open 24 hours over the whole holiday period, some operate 9am-5pm and

others operate at peak arrival times or at the start and end of holiday periods.

About 1.1 million people stop at Driver Reviver sites across Australia each year, with up to 1.7 million cuppas and 1.3 million snacks consumed annually.

Individual Driver Reviver sites are run by community groups, including Lions, SES and the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association.

The Raymond Terrace Driver Reviver site is manned by the Lions Club of Raymond

Terrace.

Robert Findley of the Raymond Terrace Lions Club told News Of The Area, “Raymond Terrace Lions are now back in full swing following the lifting of Covidrestrictions

“We are returning to full service and will be at Driver Reviver leading up to Christmas as we have since 1986.

“Driver reviver is planned to be open from 22-24 December for 24 hours each day and we expect to serve up

to 1,000 people.

“In doing so we know that we will have a positive impact on the road statistics.”

There are about 5000 Driver Reviver volunteers from all ages and backgrounds who provide a warm welcome and information on other places to stop, plus places of interest.

You don’t have to be a Lion to be a part of this important community service and anyone interested in getting involved can contact Glenda Lunn at RTLionsprojects@ gmail.com.

q A native stingless bee hive. Photo: Tim Heard.

q Native Stingless Bees. Photo: Aussie Bee.

q Stop, Revive, Survive signage.

Hospitality students serving up career success

By Marian SAMPSON

HOSPITALITY students at Hunter River High School have been holding amazing lunches at the school ‘cafe’, allowing them to build work skills while showing appreciation for school staff.

While having their practical skills assessed, students serve sharing

platters with a range of rolls, wraps and sandwiches, mocktails, milkshakes, smoothies and cafe style sweets.

The students are also required to take staff orders and payments through the 'Square' and serve food and drinks to tables.

Some of the events they have catered and served

for are the Hunter River High School Mother's Day morning tea, Father's Day breakfast, weekly coffee club and teacher luncheon events.

Kathy Kirk, Teacher of Technology, Applied Studies and VET Hospitality told News Of The Area, "Running our school cafe simulates working life in the hospitality industry and provides our students with valuable real life learning experiences."

Irrawang High charity drive supports Salvos

THE school leadership team at Irrawang High have a strong

tradition of supporting the school and wider community.

Each year they oversee the establishment of the annual 'Giving Tree', which

St Philip’s students enjoy junior school graduation

ST PHILIPS Christian College

Port Stephens recently celebrated the graduation of year 4 students from junior school into middle school.

Rather than students reaching year six and entering high school the following year, St Philips Christian College focuses on a transition from junior school into middle school and then into senior school.

Junior School focuses on kindergarten to year 4, middle school is for students from year 5 through to year 8 and senior school is from year 9 to year 12.

Middle School is designed to be a bridge between childhood and adolescence, promoting a smooth transition in a stable and caring environment.

The school believes this

model gives the student a stronger position to cope with personal changes as their educational surroundings are tailored to meet their needs at this time.

Year 4 students and their parents enjoyed an afternoon of celebration in the Chris Walkling Theatre, as each student received a graduation certificate and a personalised bible as a memento of their graduation.

"Looking back over this year there are so many highlights that come to mind, from the Colour Run, discovering our convict alter ego, the Timbertown excursion, discoveries in science, space and history days and even Crew camp… it’s been a wonderful year for

encourages the school community, including staff, to donate items leading up to Christmas.

With many households experiencing a financial squeeze due to the cost of living and increases in mortgage rates, charities are expecting more families to be doing it tough this Christmas.

Irrawang High School’s Lue Fagan told news Of The Area, “The Salvation Army in Raymond Terrace will collect our donations on 7 December and distribute them to the local community.

“This year we have been asked to collect non-perishable food items - or those with a

the students," year 4 teacher Ms Kim Focic told News Of The Area.

“Year 4 enjoy every moment of the voyage ahead, try to honour God and help others, making the most of what God has given you,” Mr Keith Dallywater, Head of Junior school, told the graduating students.

“May God bless you and keep you, may he make his

q St Philip's Christian College Junior School graduates. (L-R) Angelina Labra-knox, River Thorning, Harrison Taylor ,Grace Grove, Destiny Burgmann-Demech. (R-L back row) Year 4 teacher Ms Rebecca Ferguson, Head of Junior School Mr Keith Dalleywater, Year 4 teachers Ms Kim Focic and Ms Lisa Poole.

long expiry date, and some Christmas things such as decorations etc, as other organisations are contributing clothes and toys,” she said.

The school’s student leaders spoke at a recent assembly, encouraging students to bring in whatever they could.

Vice-Captain Travis Lamborn said, "There are many less fortunate than ourselves in our community, let's help to make many local families have a much happier Christmas."

If you would like to donate non-perishable items to the Salvation Army you can find out more at salvationarmy.org. au.

face to shine upon you, may he help you point your ‘boat’ in the right direction and may he see you safely through to the destination he has in mind for you.

“Farewell and Bon Voyage,” Mr Dallywater continued.

The graduation was followed with an afternoon tea and a photo booth for students, parents and teachers.

q Year 11 Hospitality students ready to serve in the Hunter River High Cafe.

q Members of Irrawang High School’s leadership team.

q Irrawang High School students at the giving tree.

Photo: Jewell Drury

2500 boots at Parliament House

A CONTINGENT of men and women from Port Stephens headed south, laden with more than 100 pairs of boots, to go to Parliament House on Monday for the 2500 Boots On The Lawn of Parliament House Awareness Campaign.

According to the Bureau of Statistics, approximately 2500 men take their lives by suicide every year, that’s 49 men a week or seven men every day.

The event was to create awareness of the lack of services for men and to obtain a Minister for Men to address the problems that organisers believe are causing the high number of suicide deaths of men within our nation.

“We have a Minister for Women, a Minister for Indigenous Australians, a LGBTIQ+ Ministerial and Advisory Council and yet no Minister for Men,” Paul Withall, founder of the Zero Suicide Community Awareness Program told

News Of The Area.

Various Senators and Members of Parliament came to lay boots and to give their respect as they listened to stories from parents and loved ones of men who had died by suicide.

Senator Jim Molan took time out from medical leave to attend the event to commemorate the men and boys who take their lives every day.

‘’I contributed my old army boots to commemorate veteran suicides,” Senator Molan told News Of The Area.

“This is an incredibly important cause, and it was my privilege to visit and thank those behind it for their efforts and dedication,” Senator Molan continued.

Also attending was Tony Miller, the founder of Dads in Distress (DIDS), Mark Parton MLA, Senator Malcolm Roberts, Senator Ralph Babet, former Survivor

”The three main reasons

men and boys contemplate ending their lives is because of relationship or family breakdown, loss of access to children or family court,

and financial issues or loss of employment,” Mr Withall said.

“The national suicide rate of men is higher than the

national road toll, it is time to provide support and access to gendered services for the men and boys of Australia,” Mr Withall continued.

Protecting Lives and Property With Static Water Supply

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Static Water Supply (SWS) Program is a free service that enables residents to help local firefighters by identifying existing water supplies (such as dams, tanks or swimming pools) on their property that could be used for firefighting purposes.

The Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Rural Fire Service both provide specially designed SWS signs for properties with suitable water supplies.

This helps firefighters access vital water supplies quickly and efficiently to help them defend your property.

Examples of suitable water supplies include: a property dam which can be used to refill fire tankers and firefighting aircraft such as helicopters which support our firefighters on the ground; a backyard

swimming pool, which provides an ideal static water supply for small portable pumps and hose lines to help protect your home; a tank, which with appropriate fittings can also be used to quickly supply water for firefighting.

Giacomo Arnott, Deputy Captain, Raymond Terrace Fire and Rescue NSW told News Of The Area, “Fire and Rescue NSW is responsible for protecting over 90 percent of the population of NSW.

“When homes are being threatened by bushfire, being able to access alternate water supplies like a pool or tank water, might mean the difference for us protecting those homes.

“If you have these types of water supplies please get in touch with your local Fire and Rescue NSW station and we can come out and affix a Static Water

Supply sign on your property so we know you have a supply of water that can help us if we need it.

“At the end of the day, when time is not on your side, professional firefighters are, and every second counts,” he said.

Alternatively you can contact the Rural Fire Service via email at community.engagement@rfs. nsw.gov.au if you have a pool, tank or dam with more than a 3,000 litre capacity and wish to be part of the SWS Program.

Installing a sign could save lives, your home or your neighbour's home.

q A helicopter water bombing a fire using water from a Static Water Supply. Photo: Marian Sampson.

contestant Steve Khouw, Andrew Wilcox MP, Senator Susan McDonald and Senator Gerard Rennick.

q The 2500 Boots On The Lawn of Parliament House Awareness Campaign aimed to highlight male suicide.

q Cheryl and Scott Anderson travelled to Parliament House in honour of their son Arron who died by suicide.

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

On the Couch

DEAR Jasminda,

I have a magnificent kangaroo paw plant at the front of my property.

Recently, I noticed that someone has been helping themselves.

I'm quite miffed. How do you suggest I deal with this?

Vicki A.

Dear Vicki,

difficulty, but a kangaroo paw would require secateurs at the very least.

It would also be very difficult to discreetly leave the crime scene with a bunch of these highly distinctive plants.

Your thief is brazen (or perhaps working with an accomplice and a getaway vehicle).

So, you have a couple of options.

You could be passive and bask in the glory of knowing that your gardening skills are of such a high standard that people are willing to resort to theft.

You could be aggressive, hiding out behind your shrubbery and then pouncing on the thief, perhaps giving them a good walloping with a clump of the strap-like foliage and yelling, 'Get your dirty picking mitts off my magnificent flowers.'

Or you could be imaginative and, once again hiding, cry out a furtive 'ouch' each time the pilferer snips off one of the flowering stems.

I'd hesitate to go to your local law enforcement officers over this.

Arts Centre opens Sea Art and Christmas Display

By Marian SAMPSON

IN time for easy Christmas shopping, the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre has opened its Sea Art and Christmas Display.

The gallery is filled with many unique hand-crafted items as well as works from contributing artists exploring the artistic wonder in our marine parks, ocean and bay waters.

The Christmas display features handcrafted goods which are perfect stocking fillers, and a Christmas raffle is currently underway.

Meryl Miller of the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre told News Of The Area, “The Christmas raffle

is bigger and better than before, you need to be in it to win it.”

At present, the centre’s featured potter is Jenny Crozier and the featured artist is Mike Verran.

Mike, who was born in New Zealand, enjoyed art as a young teen in the 60s, mostly drawing cartoon characters.

Over the following years Mike worked in many fields and travelled the world extensively for both business and pleasure.

Drawing was limited to doodling and experimenting with digital drawing on Adobe Illustrator in whatever spare time was available.

In the late 70s, Mike settled in Australia and worked across multiple industries including

publishing, retail and wholesale, before spending eighteen years employed with the NSW Government in child protection.

Retiring to Nelson Bay in 2015 he joined the Port Stephens Community Art Centre, and with the help and encouragement of other gallery members, his talent became evident, especially in black and white drawings.

During Covid lockdowns Mike’s desire to draw was rekindled and spare time allowed indulgence.

Mike became self-taught through online tutorials, workshops and Youtube videos.

Expanding his skills into colour pencil, watercolour and gouache.

During this time commissions were negotiated online for family

I'm trying to envisage someone furtively pinching kangaroo paws and I'd imagine that would be quite a difficult thing to pull off.

I'm also of the belief that this is a premeditated crime.

It would be possible to pinch something innocuous, like a daisy, without too much

They are probably dealing with equally important issues like cyber crime, human trafficking and drug cartels.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

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Moonshadow - TQC

Cruises is a locally owned, family-operated business celebrating over 40 years located in the beautiful blue water wonderland known as Port Stephens.

Moonshadow offers Daily Dolphin Watch cruises, Whale Watching (May-November), Broughton Island cruises, Cruising Eats'n' Beats Dinner Cruises,

Snorkelling trips, Private and Corporate Charters.

With the largest fleet in the region, Moonshadow - TQC Cruises are equipped to cater for both small and large groups, offering boom net rides and waterslides.

News Of The Area are planning to have some great giveaways heading into the Christmas period to reward our regular readers and promote local business, so keep your eyes peeled in the coming weeks.

If you are a local business and would like to be involved, please emails ads@ newsofthearea.com.au

q Port Stephens is the dolphin watch capital of Australia.

READING by Lynne Miles: Isaiah 7: 14 (Hundreds of year before Jesus was born) "Therefore the LORD Himself will give you a sign: Behold a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His Name Immanuel."

with Jasminda

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

q Feature artist Mike Verran with some of his works.

and pet portraits as well as works for private collections.

He continues to expand his

newfound talents and intends to explore other mediums and techniques.

The Port Stephens Community Art Gallery is on Cultural Close at Nelson Bay.

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.

LOCALClassifieds

Public Notices

is a sports club that is family orientated located on the Karuah River Waterfront. We are a licensed premises open every Friday night from 5:00pm for delicious meals and desserts. 0415 419 741

mail@kmyc.net.au

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Items

Bedside tables, x 2 not matching. $25 each TV unit, new $60

White desk and hutch, new, $140 Framed pic of creamy coloured roses, $30 Glass top dining room table & chairs with coffee table & bar stool, matching $160 Glass top outdoor setting with 6 chairs and cushions $50 Toaster oven $25

Curtains, 2 sets cross over and 10m continuous curtaining heavy lace. $20 HP photosmart printer $50 2 Bar radiator heater $25. Ph 0429780257

For Sale

3 x 16” x 6” Sunraysia 6 stud Landcruiser Pattern $75 ono. 0404 094 028

25 CD compilations Newcastle Top 40 classics 50s-70s. $90 Ph: 02 4966 5000

4 x 17”x 6” Steel rims, fitted with 255/65x17 Dunlop AT23 tyres. Suit current Nissan Navara $130ea ono. Ph 0404 094 028

BABIES and Childrens clothes new, worth $1,500. Will sell $200 Ph: 0457 087 178 F140722

BICYCLES 1 x mens 1 x womens $50 each Ph: 0427 879 025

BEDSIDE Chest 3 drawer $20. 4982 2335

BED and mattress double, inc pillows and mattress protector, all new $500. 0429780257

BLACK glass-top electric stove 60cm 4 burners $45 Ph: 0476 241 165

BOOKS large hard covers with dust covers Explore Aust 10 year edition 1992 and Explore Aust 2006. Recipe books Boating manual, World Atlas and Gardening + more. $3 and $5 each Ph: 4981 7523

BOUGHT and made in the UK, Burberry, water proof, man’s coat, suit 90cm chest. $99. Call 0419 932 992.

For Sale

ELECTRIC Heaters

1 Electric 700mm x 360mm 2000 watts

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

EUROPEAN Single adjust slatted bedframes & 2 latex mattresses VGC $350 each PH: 49979797

FILING Cabinet 4 Draw Excellent Condition $100. Pick up Tea Gardens 0417 199 328 f061022

FOUR brand new mens summer short sleeved shirts. 2x red + 2 x blue 2 x XL + 2 5XL. $6ono each. Ph: 4981 7523

GENERATOR 240

For Sale

PARRAMATTA

Eels large framed autographed club jersey 2001, 90cmW x 105cmL personally custom made Beautiful piece $875ono Ph: 4981 7523

PORTABLE clothesline GC, $25. 0413 023 296 F091221

PRIDE 4 Wheel Mobility Scooter good condition near new batteries front basket, rear carry bag, charger, flag 0408 263 353 Hawks Nest $550.00 e081222

REDICOTE sliding doors, 2x 870x2040cm 6x 720x2040cm with tracks and rollers $100 the lot Ph: 4984 3710 or 0407461 454

SWEDISH, Salomon road skis & stocks. $99 Call 0419 932 992.

TREADMILL light weight use up to 110kg $100ono Ph: 4987 5889

TYRES 4 x Golf rims and tires 195-65R15 $50 all 2 FWD tires 24565R17 50% tread $10 all Ph: 4984 3710 or 0407461 454

WASHING machine Fisher Paykell, limited use, VGC. $250. 4982 9942

WORK bench 136cm L $100 Ph: 4938 5923

Motors

BOXED board games Rum rebellion John Sands 1980’s. Top Gear game unopened 1990’s. Scrabble game collectable 1955. All good cond. Best offers Ph: 4981 7523

BRAND new, unused porcelain toilet bowl and seat. $95. Nerong 0419932992. F130521

GOLF set leather bag, Slazenger cart woods steels extras. $250. Ph 0476 789 721

GOOD antique Queen Anne dressing table with mirror $60 Ph 0429 601 039

GUITAR left-handed Redding as new never played with soft case $230 Ph: 4981 9939 ReS281222

SET of six pencil drawings (authentic Aussie outback) framed 280mm x 230mm. Only $90 for 6. Ph: 4987 4065

SKI boots. Suit male size 7 foot. $99. Tecnica brand. Only one season’s use. Phone Tea Gardens 0419 932 992

inverter generator brand new never used $500ono 0478 254 191 ROYAL Doulton Bone China 40 Pc 8 setting dinner set Ideal Christmas Gift $95 Ph 0416 229 166 BUNNYKINS Collection Royal Doulton Crockery 6 piece Unmarked $65 Ph 0429 410 590

CAR Tire and rim, size 15” Yokohama Decibel 370 6” across 175/65R15 $15. Tire only Charger GT 16” 215/60R16 $5 All good tread 4981 7523

CARAVAN RETRO aluminium windows Different sizes. 12 in all Millard Viscount Franklin Very cheap. Make an offer. Ph: 4981 7523 f031122

COSMOPOLITAN

Travelling port, half price, $85 used once 4982 6443 F110822

DARK timber four draw desk with optional upper hood three shelves also slide out laptop desk shelf. $40. Desk chair. $30 Swivel large adjustable comfortable chair. Good used Ph: 0401 546 848 Sandy, Tanilba Bay F300622

DINING SUITEexpanding polished Dining Table with Carved Legs and 6 upholstered Chairs $500. Pick up Tea Gardens. 0417 199 328 Re060423

DVD movies incl. drama and westerns, mainly last 5-20 years. Incl 1 TV series 10x10 disks $60 Ph: 02 4966 5000

HALL glass table wrought iron legs, 3ft long, 16 inch wide $15. 4982 2335

HOME Office, Solid wood Lockable Computer shelving $60.00 Phone Sam 0437 878 155

LADIES Malvern Star bike, Storm 27.2 very rarely used $200 ONO PH 0417 674 734

LOUNGE suite fabric

SUNBEAM food saver VAC420 with bags, half price $55. 49826443

SWEDISH road skis stocks and boots , size 7 as used in the offseason by professional, cross country skiers. SwedSki brand. $99. Phone Tea Gardens 0419 932 992

TOYOTA Landcruiser 100 series Petrol 1999 model, white very good body. Rego Oct 2023 CL27KF $14,000 Ph: 0401 138 279

Caravans

CUB camper 2013 $12,000 ono 0407 093 997 Re010922

Boats

MIRROR Dinghy. Gaff rig. Boat & sails in GC Ideal training boat for children. $450. Call 0402 990 999

TIMBER 14ft putt putt boat. 1934 provenance Chapman Pup 3HP motor. Quality reg trailer $7,500 ono. 0402 054 207 leave msg. Re241122

SOLD

3 seater lounge plus 2x manual recliners, beige colour with wooden arms Very good cond. $200 Ph: 0410 275 495 Pick up Fern Bay ReS201022

SOLD

LOUNGE 3 piece $50. Other items too 0425 254 612

MATTRESS protector quilted cotton. King size made by Onkaparinga New price $219 will sell for $65. 0412 082 543 F241122

MOBILITY Scooter 4 wheel. Good cond. with front basket, rear bag and charger. $1400 Free delivery Ph: 0418 430 643

Karuah Motor Yacht Club

within

(20) 39.

Eddy Perrine (42) 41; Ron Willock (26) 39; Tony Doyle (38) 38. Mens Stableford

Course

David Rann (14) 39; Jamie Keating (14) 38; Ian Warrington (11) 37.

Graeme Brown (20) 40c/b; Christopher Dunn (23) 40; Rodney Maher (18) 38c/b.

Elio Rigon (25) 39; James Saunders (29) 38; Glenn Sutton (33) 36.

Womens Stableford Brushbox Course: Jan Kehoe (21) 32.

THURSDAY

24 NOVEMBER 2022 Mens Stableford Gymea Lily Course OVER-ALL WINNERS:

Sean Gardner (22) 40.

John Townsend (26) 35

FRIDAY

25 NOVEMBER 2022 Brushbox course: Mens Stableford:

Guy Jennings (12) 38

John Rowland (10) 36

Steven Wilson (14) 35 c/b

Craig Dews (19) 39

Charlie Haggett (19) 37

Keith Woodley (23) 36

Ken Scamell (30) 38 C2: John Bell (24) 37 c/b C3: Ray Baunach (24) 37 Womens Stableford Brushbox course: A Grade: Jill Rowlands (26) 35

www.newsofthearea.com.au

Advertising within the News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. Call (02) 4981 8882 or email ads@newsofthearea.com.au

TILLIGERRY Social Golf Club results for 25/11/22 Outright winners: John Clayton & Greg Hinton 48 Runners up: Dale Fittock & Ron McKay 46 Ball winners: Mark Skidmore & Jack Johnstone 45 Bob West & Hugh Potts 45 Peter Hill & Ron Dews 44 Grahame Glover & Kim Miller 44

A. Ron Dews. B. Bill McMaster D&C7th. A. Matt Baldwin. B. Peter Hill NTP18th. A. Matt Baldwin. B. Mark Skidmore Money hole. A. Sean Brennan. B. Kim Miller Lucky number: 24 Colin Marsden No ladies 9 hole competition today. There were 21 starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game 2/12/22 Single Stableford. SMART MARKETING Advertising in the NEWS OF THE AREA reaches a captive audience Call OR Email today: (02) 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au

Christmas Bush Bash

By David WILSON

NELSON Bay Croquet Club hosted and organised the Christmas Bush Bash, a golf croquet doubles tournament held Saturday 19 to Monday 21 November 2022.

64 players from around NSW converged on Nelson Bay for the three days, with many extending their stay before or after the tournament.

The 32 doubles pairs were seeded into four blocks of eight teams each, with the top pairs in Block A.

The tournament comprised a round-robin of level play followed by a round-robin of handicap play, meaning each doubles pair played fourteen games over the three days.

The games were thirteen-point contests with a time limit of 50 minutes.

215 games were played over the tournament (one pair had to withdraw after the first day due to illness – they were leading Block A at the time).

Despite the high winds on Sunday and Monday, the tournament was completed on time with keenly contested games.

Kate Washington, Member for Port Stephens and Club Patron,

and Philippa Brooks, representing sponsors PRD Real Estate, were on hand at the end of play on Monday 21 November to present the awards and prizes.

In Block A, three pairs finished with three wins with the winners and runners-up decided on net hoops –former Australian representatives Ros and Ron Johnston (Sutherland/ Cooks River) were first with Stephen Thornton and Michael Anear (Maitland) second.

In Block B, Bill Munns and Laurie Lawson (Toronto/Nelson Bay) were clear winners with nine wins with Julie Thornton and David Smith (Maitland/Nelson Bay) runners-up on net hoops from three pairs with eight wins.

In Block C, three pairs finished with nine wins with the winners and runners-up decided on net hoops – Liz and Phil McDonald (Toronto) were first with Jim Muxlow and Ann Barrett (Maitland) second.

In Block D, Judy and Hans Szubert (Toronto) were clear winners with eleven wins with Margaret Myers and Martin Wooster (Toronto/Mount Sugarloaf) runners-up on net hoops from two pairs with nine wins.

With visiting players from as far

away as the Blue Mountains, Orange, Smithtown and Young, as well as croquet clubs in Sydney, the local clubs from the Hunter region fared very well.

Keen paddlers try Dragon Boating

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club is hailing their recent Try Dragon Boating day a success with over 20 locals heading along for a paddle.

The club has come a long way from its humble beginnings and now has three dragon boats and 35 members.

Hosting the event on the shores of Salamander Bay, the Dragon Boat Club enjoyed meeting members of the community and showcasing their sport.

Andrew Downey was one of the founders of this club who the

NOTA

Downey told News Of The Area, “We participated in a regatta at Forster last week and did really well taking out a couple of second places and there were only a couple of seconds between the first and second place crews.”

The club has a beautiful new boat which they purchased through grant funding and fundraising.

Club members are looking forward to an event at Penrith in December and Chinese New Year at Darling Harbour.

Dragon Boat Paddling is something anyone over twelve can try.

Each dragon boat has paddlers,

Kate Washington noted that they took a little of Port Stephens home with them.

The tournament was sponsored by PRD Real Estate, with support from Bunnings, Kmart, Newcastle Permanent Building Society and Wests Diggers.

For further information about the Club, visit nelsonbaycroquet.org. au or e-mail nelsonbaycroquet@ gmail.com.

a drummer, and a sweep who steers the boat.

Dragon boating is a fun team activity which builds fitness and can be either competitive or a social activity.

Paddles are generally 200 to 500 metre sprints with longer paddles going for up to two kilometres.

Club members engage in paddles with other clubs up and down the coast, and meet regularly for pizza nights, breakfasts and cheese and biscuit events on the beach.

The club houses one of its boats at Soldiers Point Marina and the Port Stephens Sailing Centre.

You can find out more about this club and getting involved on their Facebook page.

q Players at the start of play, Saturday 19 November.

In addition to the usual certificates and awards, the winners and runners-up received a fledgling Christmas Bush grown from seeds for trees around the courts.

q PRD Real Estate’s Philippa Brooks with Block A winners Ros and Ron Johnston and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington.

first met in 2017 after he had secured a donation of boats and equipment for the club.

q Members of the Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club with members of the public ready to try dragon boating.