Port Stephens News Of The Area 20 April 2023

HALL

Council refuses DA for Swan Bay ‘transitional

FROM Page 1

Punt Road, Swan Bay, known as the Fisherman’s Village, has for the past ten years been used as a drug and alcohol treatment centre, operated by Connect Global Limited.

29 of the 39 on-site cabins are currently utilised for Connect Global purposes, however the facility is not zoned for this use, with the ten remaining cabins used for tourism purposes.

A report prepared for Councillors by Steven Peart, Group Manager of Development Services at Port Stephens Council, recommended the DA be refused on the basis of a number of social impacts and land use conflicts.

“The proposed development fails to satisfy Clause 2.3 (zone objectives) as it is likely to detract from existing tourist and visitor-oriented land uses,” the report stated.

“The proposed development is incompatible with surrounding land uses, resulting in adverse social impacts.

“The proposed development is not considered to be suitable for the site.

“The proposed development is not considered to be in the public interest as the development is likely to create a land use conflict, cause adverse social impact on the surrounding land uses and received substantial opposition from the community.”

Stephen Leathley, a town planner with 35 years experience, spoke for Connect Global during public access, arguing that while the Fisherman’s Village was zoned for tourism in the nineties, it was no longer used for that purpose.

“The council report before you recommends refusal,” Mr Leathley said.

“That refusal is based around land use conflict or incompatibility of locating a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in a tourist village or tourist resort.

“However, there is an important distinction here.

“This facility was abandoned some 25 years ago in 1998 when the RAAF started flying F/A-18s over it.

“This Council was involved in a very lengthy and costly court case in relation to that.

“That Supreme Court case made the finding that this facility was not suitable as a tourist resort.”

Mr Leathley then asked

councillors to defer the matter and consider “granting a two year, time limited approval” to Connect Global.

“Give Mr Pene (Connect Global Director) an opportunity to work with the community.

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“We would do public consultations during that process, drop-in sessions, so that the community that does have some concerns can come out and have a look at it over that two year period.

“It also gives us the time to

We’re connecting the community with our Councillors and Executive Team. Come along and talk to us about topics relevant to your place. We can provide information, assist with application forms and lodge customer requests on-site. Please find details on our 3 event locations below:

LEMON TREE PASSAGE

9 Cambridge Ave 16-2023-167-1 Shed and demolition of existing 2 sheds

MEDOWIE

5 Berry Rd 16-2023-180-1 Swimming pool

10 Osprey Cct 16-2023-188-1 Shed, swimming pool and tree removal

NELSON

Wednesday 19 April 4:30pm to 6pm Riverside Park Rotunda, Raymond Terrace

Thursday 20 April 4:30pm to 6pm Medowie Community Centre/ Lions Park, Medowie

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

COMMUNITY DROP-INS

Friday 21 April 4:30pm to 6pm Apex Park, Nelson Bay

Come and learn more about the coastal hazards impacting our coastline and estuary areas. For more information about the Coastal Management Program and how to get involved go to pscouncil.info/cmp

Wednesday 3 May 12pm to 2pm Tanilba Foreshore Hall, Tanilba Bay

Wednesday 3 May 4pm to 6pm Bruce Scott Pavillion, Tomaree Sports Complex

NOTICE OF PUBLIC EXHIBITION

Thursday 4 May 11am to 1pm Murrook Cultural Centre, Williamtown

Thursday 4 May 4pm to 6pm Birubi Surf Life Saving Club, Anna Bay

INTEGRATED PLANNING AND REPORTING, AND FEES AND CHARGES

Council at its meeting of 11 April 2023, resolved to place the Draft Delivery Program 2022 to 2026 and Operational Plan 2023 to 2024, Draft Resourcing Strategy 2023 to 2033 (incorporating the Workforce Management Strategy 2022 to 2026, Long Term Financial Plan 2023 to 2033, and Strategic Asset Management Plan 2023 to 2033), Draft Fees and Charges 2023 to 2024, Revised Debt Recovery and Hardship Policy on public exhibition.

The documents will be on exhibition from Thursday 13 April to Friday 12 May 2023 and are available for viewing at the Council Administration Building, Libraries or online at pscouncil.info/PublicExhibitions For enquiries contact Council on 4988 0255.

Submissions are invited and can be lodged, in writing (including email) with the General Manager up until 5pm on 12 May 2023 quoting file number PSC2022-03935-0001. Please note, submissions may be made in any format, which is able to be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size. This may include a video file or audio voice recording in addition to more traditional written format.

KARUAH

‘transitional group home’

peaceful area that you could want or need.”

Swan Bay residents Diane and Stanley Wollen, who have lived in the area for 25 years, then addressed councillors, citing traffic concerns and social issues they believe have arisen as a result of Connect Global running their program locally.

“The motorbikes and groups of walking men, plus the increased police visiting the area was starting to unnerve us, when we learned that all of this activity was due to an unapproved rehabilitation facility being established at the former oyster barn in Fisherman’s Village,” Stanley said.

By this point in the meeting, Cr Arnott had reminded meeting attendees several times to be respectful of speakers, with strong contingents of Connect Global supporters and objectors in attendance.

said.

After a last-minute reshuffle of agenda items prolonged the decision for the tense crowd, it was time for Councillors to vote, with Cr Arnott announcing he would be supporting the refusal of the DA in line with the staff recommendation.

“I understand the position of the proponent.

“I understand especially the position put forward by people talking about the work that occurs at this facility, but for me, when we are assessing Development Applications we are bound to follow the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

“That means we need to consider only planning matters when considering a DA.”

Bailey abstained from voting, while Mayor Palmer and Cr Doohan were absent.

Following the meeting, Connect Global director Ross Pene said he was “disappointed with the Council decision”.

“We have been operating an important community facility out here at Swan Bay for the last ten years that has reformed the lives of many men.

“It has turned them away from a life of crime, drugs and alcohol.

“We have saved the lives of families’ sons, husbands and fathers.

“We have turned these men into contributing members of society.

began utilising the Fisherman’s Village for rehabilitation purposes, it was not in use as a tourist facility.

“It is significant to note that Port Stephens Council lost a major court case over this site that went to the Court of appeal in 2005, and that case ended up costing the Council and the ratepayers upwards of $10m.

“The Court found that due to the RAAF F/A-18 noise impacts, the Fisherman’s Village tourist resort facility was not capable of operating on a commercial basis as a tourist resort and that Council should never have approved it.

“It actually ceased trading in 1998, so there has been no tourist accommodation on this site for 25 years and anyone that is familiar with this area knows that to be a fact.

and rehabilitation facility.”

Mr Pene described Tuesday’s Council meeting proceedings as like “watching ostriches stick their heads in the sand”.

“If Fisherman’s Village was actually providing tourist accommodation, of course we would not have set up here in the first place.

“But that is not what is happening here, there is no tourist accommodation being provided and Councillor Giacomo Arnott and his Labor colleagues did not want to hear anything about that.”

Since the meeting, Connect Global has indicated it will appeal the Council’s decision.

acquire the other nine cabins we believe we can get a hold of if we have that time.”

Worimi Elder Uncle Lenny Anderson then addressed Council on behalf of Connect Global, citing the program’s high success rate.

“91.23 percent of Aboriginal people who have been through this program in the past ten years have not reoffended,” Mr Anderson said.

“I have been there, I have seen it.”

Mr Anderson then spoke of the Fisherman Village’s “geographically isolated” position, citing benefits for Indigenous program participants, five of whom are reportedly currently undertaking treatment at Connect Global.

“Please don’t stop the program.

“This program will only benefit the community, not be detrimental.”

Cr Giacomo Arnott, performing the duties of Acting Mayor in Ryan Palmer’s absence, asked Mr Anderson if there was another suitable site for the program in Port Stephens which would avoid the current land use conflicts.

“It will not be the same,” Mr Anderson said.

“If it leaves that area there it will not have the same effect for Aboriginal people, the clients or the people who have been sentenced there.

“That is the best, most

Diane then spoke of the intimidation she claims members of the community have experienced as a result of speaking out against the rehabilitation centre; a comment which received a boisterous response from meeting attendees.

“Our neighbours, who have also lived there (Swan Bay) for a long time, many of whom are elderly and have health issues, would have come tonight if they hadn’t been so terrified of these people,” Diane said.

“They are too scared to come out of their homes and complain.”

Fisherman’s Village cabin owner Michelle Shetab, a vocal opposition to the Connect Global usage of the Swan Bay site for several years, also provided councillors with her thoughts.

“Are the courts and the magistrates that send these men to Fisherman’s Village aware that the Fisherman’s Village is a Council approved tourism facility only, and that these men mix freely with families and children on site?

“Fisherman’s village is not a Council approved rehab and not a Council approved transitional group home.

“Councillors, your staff have had the courage in outlining the problems with this DA and you have a duty to do what is right and support the community protests by voting to reject the DA.

"Let me be very clear, a family tourist village, or anywhere that has families and children attending, is not an appropriate site,” Ms Shetab

Cr Glen Dunkley then proposed that Council defer the decision to allow investigation of a limited time consent to find an alternative location for the facility, which was supported by Cr Steve Tucker.

“I think this is a good program and I would like to see it continue,” Cr Tucker said.

“I would like to give these guys some time to either find a new location or to come to an arrangement with the owners of the remaining units.”

Cr Tucker then enquired to Council’s Development Services staff as to the compliance protocol of ceasing rehabilitation centre activities if the DA was refused.

“If it gets refused this evening, there is currently active compliance action that is being undertaken against the use at the location,” Group Manager Development Services Steven Peart said.

“That compliance action has essentially been on pause for a little while, pending a decision, so if it was refused tonight that compliance action would be picked up and continued.”

Cr Tucker and Cr Dunkley then voted in favour of the amendment to defer the decision on the DA, with Crs Arnott, Anderson, Francis and Wells voting against.

“We did hear from Council staff in our briefings that a limited time consent would basically allow the issues raised in the independent Social Impact Statement to continue occurring for a period of two years,” Cr Arnott said.

Councillors Arnott, Anderson, Francis and Wells then voted to refuse the DA, with Crs Tucker and Dunkley voting against.

Councillors Kafer and

“It is therefore extremely disappointing that Council has been unable to see through the deceit from the primary objectors and have instead become party to it.

“We operated out here for eight years before a new owner bought in at Fisherman’s Village knowing full well that we were operating a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility, and that individual then started raising objections and stirring up some people in the local community, and it wasn’t until that point did we start having issues with Port Stephens Council.”

Mr Rene told News Of The Area that when Connect Global

“We were introduced to the site on the basis that it was essentially an abandoned tourist resort, so this was a change of use of the facility,” he said.

“Instead of providing temporary accommodation and activities and programs for tourists, we are providing essentially the same –accommodation and programs, to individuals who want to turn their lives around from drugs and alcohol.

“But that did not stop the Labor Deputy Mayor Giacomo Arnott and his Labor colleagues voting on bloc to refuse the DA based on what they say is land use conflict between tourist accommodation and a drug

“We now have no options but to appeal,” Mr Pene said, “and that just means more waste of ratepayers’ money, and money we could be allocating to our work.

“Our compromise of Council granting a two year time limited consent was only supported by Councillors Dunkley and Tucker, whom we thank for their support, but the Labor Councillors were not interested.

“It will simply divert our focus and resources away from our important work while we fight through a court process to get this facility approved, a facility that is supported by many people in the community, many businesses, the Aboriginal community and the legal fraternity, but not Port Stephens Council.”

q An aerial view of the Fisherman’s Village at Swan Bay. Photo: Australian Rural.

Authorised by Meryl Swanson MP, 35 Sturgeon St, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

Cr Giacomo Arnott takes advantage of hot seat to spend the remaining Mayoral Fund

By Doug CONNOR

WASTING no time during his short stint as Acting Mayor, Cr Giacomo Arnott moved a Mayoral Minute at Council’s April 11 meeting to provide financial assistance to nine community organisations from the Mayoral Fund.

Cr Arnott, who was performing the duties of Acting Mayor for two weeks in the absence of Mayor Ryan Palmer, moved to provide each group with grants of between $500 and $1500, a total of $7,305.

This amount constituted the remainder of the Mayoral Fund, with $1000 pledged earlier in the meeting from the fund for a series of community barbeque events to be held in Medowie, Raymond Terrace and Nelson Bay.

Each year the Mayor is allocated $30,000 to spend at their discretion on projects or activities benefiting the Port Stephens LGA.

“My time as Acting Mayor will be relatively brief, just two weeks,” said Cr Arnott.

“But when I got the call letting me know that I would be acting in the role, I decided I would be trying my best to do some good with it.

“These community

organisations are shining examples of what volunteers in Port Stephens are able to achieve.

“From looking after the homeless, to those fleeing domestic violence, to supporting young Aboriginal men as they navigate their teenage years, to giving young adults mental health support that the system has failed to provide them.”

Cr Arnott told the meeting he had spent years “criticising the way the Mayoral Fund is utilised and the type of organisations that receive funding from it”.

“I have decided that in my short time in the role, I am going to do something about it.

“I don’t like being someone who sits there and complains all the time, I see myself as a doer and this is me being a doer.

“This isn’t even 20 percent of the Mayoral Fund for a year and it is able to go to so many groups and provide support to our community.”

Quick to voice his disapproval at Cr Arnott’s motion to spend the remainder of the Mayoral Fund in the Mayor’s absence was Cr Steve Tucker, suggesting the Acting Mayor could support some of the listed organisations through

West Ward funding.

“I have no problem at all with the Acting Mayor having a dip into Mayoral Funds, even if it’s the first time it has ever happened.

“But I don’t really think it is appropriate to spend all the Mayoral Fund in one night, because that means there will be nothing left for the next couple of months, so sorry, I can’t support it.”

Cr Peter Kafer however, passionately supported Cr Arnott in his motion, citing the vital role the organisations play in supporting vulnerable people in the community.

“If you look through these seven or eight items here, what do they all have in common?

“Food - that’s what it's all about.

“Supplying food to homeless people or people who are doing it tough in society.

“If you are going to quibble about $500 here or $1000 there, you are not much of a person in this regard.

“I am sure if the Mayor had been here he probably would have gone along with it.”

Cr Kafer then suggested that if the Mayor needed to allocate funds in the remaining months of the financial year, councillors could assist from

ward funding.

“This is an opportunity again, to give back to our community.

“Crikey, we put the rates up, let's give them something back,” Cr Kafer said.

Cr Leah Anderson also voiced her support, for both the motion in front of council and the community groups impacted.

“I can’t see anyone on that list who doesn’t deserve a helping hand.

“It is going to help the people of our community who need it the most.”

Councillors Kafer, Francis, Wells, Bailey, Anderson and Arnott voted in favour of the motion, with Councillor Tucker voting against.

Mayor Ryan Palmer told News Of The Area that no consultation regarding the expenditure of the Mayoral Fund took place prior to the meeting.

“In fact the first I knew of the entire expenditure was through a concerned resident,” Mayor Palmer said.

“I leave it up to others to judge whether it was appropriate for the Acting Mayor to spend the entirety of the funds in my absence.

“If I was in the same

position, I know I certainly wouldn’t,” he said.

Mayor Palmer said while the organisations who received funds are deserving of support, he has concerns over whether correct processes have been followed.

“The groups who have received funds are certainly worthy but I’m not sure due process has been followed and that any request for funds has actually been received by Council from these groups.

“This means that other groups will now potentially miss out on funds for urgent needs or requests due to the clearing of the Mayoral Funds.

“The process of handling public funds needs to be transparent and it’s a shame that this seems to have gone out the window while I take a small break away with my family.”

Following Council’s decision, funding has been allocated to the following Port Stephens community groups:

A. $1,500 to the Warlga Ngurra Family & Community Hub for their ongoing work to provide food for those unable to afford it in the local community.

B. $1,000 to Port Stephens Family & Neighbourhood Services for their schedule of programs which support young people in the community.

C. $1,000 to the Yacaaba Centre for their ongoing work to support homeless people in Port Stephens.

D. $1,000 to Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre for their ongoing work to support vulnerable and disadvantaged community members on the Tomaree Peninsula.

E. $805 to Wahroonga Aboriginal Corporation for their continued work supporting disadvantaged Aboriginal people in our community.

F. $500 to the St John’s Parish Pantry at Raymond Terrace Anglican Church, to support their ongoing work to provide food to needy families.

G. $500 to the Raymond Terrace Salvation Army to support their regular free community lunches.

H. $500 to the Clontarf Foundation for their work in engaging and supporting young Aboriginal men in our local community.

I. $500 for COPSY, for their Jupiter Mental Health initiative, which helps young people in Port Stephens access support that they would otherwise be unable to access.

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

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

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

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

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POST: PO Box 1000, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

Korean and Vietnam War veterans to be commemorated

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Raymond Terrace RSL sub-Branch has big plans for ANZAC Day 2023.

The traditional ANZAC Day Dawn Service will commence with a short march, with the service being held at the War Memorial in ANZAC Park, Jacaranda Avenue, Raymond Terrace, commencing at 05:50am.

The Service is expected to run for approximately 30 minutes.

Guests are requested to arrive by 05:45am.

The Service will commence at 10:55am at the conclusion of the ANZAC March, which is scheduled to commence in Sturgeon Street at approximately 10:35am.

The Service is expected to run for approximately 50 minutes.

Guests are requested to arrive by 10:45am.

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Following the Service, community members are invited to a ‘gunfire’ breakfast being held in the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club (gold coin donation).

The main ANZAC Day March and Service will be held at the War Memorial in ANZAC Park, Jacaranda Avenue, Raymond Terrace.

“The Raymond Terrace RSL sub-Branch will be conducting our usual Dawn Service March and Service, but this year, in lieu of conducting a Last Post Ceremony where we select a name of a local veteran off the War Memorial and honour that individual’s military service to Australia, we will do something different,” Vic Jones of the Raymond Terrace Sub Branch told News Of The Area.

“To mark the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice, and the 50th anniversary of the ending of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, we will be honouring about six local Korean War/ Vietnam War veterans still living in our community who are all members of the Raymond Terrace RSL subBranch,” Mr Jones said.

“While it is our solemn responsibility to never forget the service and sacrifices made by those past generations of veterans who answered the call to arms to fight for Australia and defend the freedoms and principles our nation was founded upon, and which we promote internationally, it is equally important that we show our respect and thanks to those

veterans of more recent conflicts who are still among us today, and whom we can publicly honour in person.

“Shamefully, when some Vietnam veterans returned to Australia from their tours of duty they were given no fanfare, and some were met with indifference and outright hostility by elements of the public, and even the RSL at the time.

“Years later attitudes changed and steps were taken to show appropriate recognition for the service these veterans had given.

“During the ANZAC Day service on this anniversary, we take the opportunity of again personally thanking our Vietnam veterans for their service to our country,” Mr Jones said.

ANZAC Day commemorations around Port Stephens

By Marian SAMPSON

ANZAC Day will be commemorated around Port Stephens with services in Nelson Bay, Tilligerry, Medowie, Raymond Terrace, Seaham and Karuah.

NELSON BAY

The Nelson Bay Dawn Service commences at the cenotaph in Apex Park and runs from 5:30am to 6:30am. The annual March from the Bowling Club to Apex Park will commence at 10.25am with Stockton Road being closed between Dowling Street and Victoria Parade. The march is being followed by a service in Apex Park from 10.45 - 11.45am. Veterans are invited to attend a luncheon from 12pm to 2:30pm at West Diggers.

TILLIGERRY PENINSULA

On the Tilligerry Peninsula there will be a Dawn Service from 5:45am to 6:45am at the Tilligerry RSL Sports Club grounds.

The traditional ANZAC March will be held from 9:40am to 10am, departing from

the Avenue of Allies gateway to Tilligerry RSL Sports Club grounds.

For safety the road will be closed for the march between the Avenue of the Allies and Reliance Blvd.

A service will be held from 10am to 11am at the Tilligerry RSL grounds.

MEDOWIE

The township of Medowie will gather at the new memorial at Medowie Social for a Dawn Service from 6am.

The Medowie ANZAC March runs from 5:45am to 6am, and runs along Ferodale Road to the Medowie Social Memorial.

Ferodale Rd will be closed for the duration of the march.

RAYMOND TERRACE

A March will take place

from 5.50am to 6am down Jacaranda Avenue which will be followed by a Dawn Service from 6am to 6:30am at ANZAC Park.

Jacaranda Ave will be closed for the duration of the march.

Following the Dawn Service, the Raymond Terrace RSL sub-Branch is holding their annual gun fire Breakfast from 7am at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club.

The second ANZAC March at Raymond Terrace goes from 10:35am to 10:55am, arriving at the War Memorial in Anzac Park via Sturgeon Street, William Street and Port Stephens Street.

The March is followed by the Main Service which runs

from 11am to 11:45am at ANZAC Park.

SEAHAM

The community of Seaham will hold an ANZAC March from 8:50am to 9am, from East Seaham Road to Newline Road.

Again for safety, East Seaham Rd to Newline Rd will be closed for the march, which will be followed by a Service from 9am to 9:30am at the Knitting Circle Memorial.

KARUAH

Karuah’s community will hold an ANZAC Day March from 5:50am from Malcolm Road to Tarean Road Memorial Park, with Malcolm Rd to Tarean Rd closed for the procession.

The March will be followed by a Dawn Service from 6am to 7am at Memorial Park.

ANZAC Day to commemorate significant anniversaries

By Marian SAMPSON

2023 is a significant year for Australia's annual ANZAC Day commemorations.

It is the 70th anniversary of the armistice which ended the Korean War, the 50th Anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, and the second anniversary since the Australian Armed forces withdrew from Afghanistan.

On 27 July 1953 an armistice was signed to end the fighting in Korea.

Almost 18,000 Australians served in that war, including some 340 who lost their lives.

Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War was controversial.

In 1964, the National Service Act was introduced.

The Act was a scheme which introduced selective conscription in Australia, designed to create an army of 40,000 full-time soldiers.

Essentially, young Australian men were selected through a lottery process to serve and potentially die for their country.

Many of those conscripted were sent on active service to the war in Vietnam.

In 2023, the Australian Government will mark the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.

Vic Jones of the Raymond Terrace RSL sub-Branch told News Of The Area, “This year, Australians are encouraged to honour and remember the service of some 60,000 Australian men and women

who served in the Vietnam War and their families.”

Tragically, 523 Australians lost their lives in the Vietnam War, and over 3,000 were wounded.

For those who served in Vietnam recognition has taken time, the war was not a popular one and the Australian National Archives recognise that many of our returning soldiers “were subjected to abuse by antiwar protesters”.

Another anniversary to be recognised is the anniversary of the last Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel withdrawal from Afghanistan in June two years ago.

Around 30,000 ADF personnel served in Afghanistan and 41 died there.

Active Fest 2023 comes to Raymond Terrace

By Marian SAMPSON

THIS Friday 21 April, kids and youth of Port Stephens are invited to get involved in Active Fest 2023, with a range of activities on offer focusing on physical fitness and fun.

The free event is being held on Friday from 10am to 1pm at the Kings Park Sports Complex in Raymond Terrace.

Kids will have a variety of activities to participate in on the day and the chance to register with the service providers in attendance for ongoing programs.

There will also be some exciting opportunities to engage with sporting heroes from the Newcastle Knights, who will be on hand to inspire and even sign autographs.

Other activities include

come and try sessions, sporting clinics (including modified sport) and Ninja Park inflatables.

There will be stalls from local sporting clubs, a yoga/mindfulness class by jupiter from 12-1pm, a DJ, face painting, a canteen and more.

Youth mental health charity jupiter will hold a series of activities that connect exercise and

N E L S O N B A Y R S L S U B B R A N C H

positive mental health outcomes.

Meryl Miller of jupiter told News Of The Area, “jupiter will have a tent at Active Fest and we will be doing mindfulness matters sessions for youth to take part in and some of our counsellors will be there as well.

“Youth do not need a referral to use the jupiter

A N Z A C D A Y

services and this is a great opportunity for young people to connect with the organisation.

“Parents are welcome to use Active Fest as an opportunity to find out about our programs as well if they have concerns.

“Young people can take part in mindfulness matters stretching group sessions and find out about jupiter’s recreation and wellbeing

N e l s o n B a y R S L S u b - B r a n c h w i l l h o s t A N Z A C D a y E v e n t s a s d e t a i l e d b e l o w A l l v e t e r a n s a n d m e m b e r s o f t h e p u b l i c a r e i n v i t e d t o a t t e n d

D A W N S E R V I C E a t A P E X P A R K

B R E A K F A S T a t W E S T S D I G G E R S C o m p l i m e n t a r y f o r R S L N S W m e m b e r s a n d U n i f o r m e d M i l i t a r y P e r s o n n e l $ 1 5 f o r e v e r y o n e e l s e

M A R C H - D e p a r t s B o w l i n g C l u b c a r p a r k

M A I N S E R V I C E a t A P E X P A R K

L U N C H E O N a t W E S T S D I G G E R S

T i c k e t e d E v e n t a n d o n l y a v a i l a b l e t o R S L N S W M e m b e r s ( $ 1 5 ) a n d t h e i r g u e s t s ( $ 2 5 )

U n i f o r m e d M i l i t a r y P e r s o n n e l ( $ 0 ) a n d t h e i r p a r t n e r s ( $ 2 5 )

E x S e r v i c e P e r s o n n e l w e a r i n g m e d a l s a n d t h e i r p a r t n e r s ( $ 2 5 )

T

program which aims at providing support to young people with mental health concerns who find great resonance in coaching and mentoring approach,” she said.

Active Fest events are funded by the NSW Government's Community Sport Rebuild and Recovery Package and are being delivered locally in conjunction with community groups and Port Stephens Council.

T I C K E T S n o w o n s a l e a t W e s t s D i g g e r s R e c e p t i o n N o t e t h a t R S L N S W M e m b e r s h i p o r S e r v i c e I D C a r d r e q u i r e d

U p d a t e d i n f o r m a t i o n c a n b e f o u n d o n o u r w e b s i t e

n e l s o n b a y r s l s u b b r a n c h . o r g . a u

N o t a S u b B r a n c h M e m b e r o r M e m b e r s h i p h a s l a p s e d , t h e n j o i n O N L I N E a t r s l n s w o r g a u

A l l p e r s o n n e l e n t e r

q A recent service in Nelson Bay’s Apex Park.

OUTLETS

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 Bay

Tanilba Newsagent

Post Office Tanilba Bay

Blue Marine Services

Chemist Lemon Tree

Club Lemon Tree

Tilligerry RSL

Tilligerry Real Estate

Bull n Bush Medowie

Coles Medowie

7-Eleven Medowie

Medowie Newsagent

Medowie Pharmacy

Woolworths Medowie

Medowie Social

BP Servo Medowie

Pacific Dunes Golf Club

Saxby's Bakery, Pauls Corner

Metro Servo (Airport Side)

Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)

Brand new bus helps seniors to stay connected

By Lindsay HALL

IN early 2022 Meagan

Ambrose opened the Stay Connected Activity Centre in Taylor’s Beach with a desire to ensure that those who struggle with ongoing memory loss are not themselves forgotten.

“One of the tragedies of living with dementia or memory loss is that it can be so isolating for people,” said Maraya Fameli, the Centre’s coordinator.

“Not just for those that experience it, but for their families and carers as well.”

Director Meagan Ambrose spent 21 years operating a community nursing and home care service in Port Stephens.

It was in this role that she saw first-hand how damaging it is when people are simply not capable

of maintaining social connections.

This issue was particularly heightened by the restrictions imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Meagan saw that there was a critical need to bring these people together, and help create community,” Maraya said.

Stay Connected hosts a range of activities to keep their clients engaged and help them to exercise the mind.

Maraya pointed out that an obvious difficulty for many of the clients was how to access the facility.

“We’re connecting with home care providers now, and ACAT assessors are recommending our services.

“We just needed to get people here.”

Although it has been a lengthy wait due to the current high demand of vehicles, Port Stephens Toyota has finally

been able to provide Stay Connected with their own bus.

“This enables us to bring people to our Centre, take

them on day-trips and it’s helping get people out in the community again.”

RSL NSW calls on Aussies to pledge their support this ANZAC Day

THIS ANZAC Day, RSL NSW is calling on all Australians to ‘Check on a Mate’, pledge their support, and encourage their veteran friends and family members to commemorate the day by attending one of hundreds of commemorative events facilitated by RSL NSW.

To further highlight the importance of ANZAC Day events, Census 2021 data has shown that one in 20 (5.3 percent) Australian households reported at least one person who had served, or was currently serving, in the ADF.

“The Census data shows that everyone knows a veteran or is connected to someone who has served in some form or another: a grandparent, partner, parent, sibling or friend,” RSL NSW President Ray James said.

“It’s therefore all of our responsibility to make sure they are okay, know that they have support and know where they can seek that support.

“Whether that’s a coffee with friends, or it’s employment or wellbeing support.

“RSL NSW is home to 26,000 members and more than 320 sub-Branches across NSW, all of whom stand ready to provide mateship, a ready-made community, connection and links to support services for veterans and their families.”

Over the past twelve months alone, RSL NSW membership increased for the first time in 40 years, up by eleven percent, highlighting the importance of the RSL, and the real need for veterans

to be able to access local support and services.

Support through transition is an important way of ensuring ADF veterans' professional value and expertise is realised in civilian life.

Census data shows that the employment rates of reservists (89 percent) and all veterans (75 percent) are comparable to the national average (74 percent), clearly demonstrating that veterans bring highly valuable skill sets to the workplace, transferring training, knowledge and experience gained during their service.

The data also shows that serving in the ADF can provide great professional outcomes for women, with seventeen percent of female reservists, and fourteen percent of female veterans now working as managers, compared to eleven percent of females in the general population.

Adrian Sutter, RSL NSW member and founder of veteran-led charity Swiss8, said, “Transitioning out of Defence is a real challenge for many veterans, no matter how rewarding a career they have had.

“Some have never been civilians as adults and need to learn even the basics –getting a Medicare card and renting a house.

“While basic training to become a soldier takes three months of around-the-clock hard work, transitioning out of Defence takes as little as 30 minutes.

“After walking out the gates, veterans need to rebuild their social networks and transition into civilian life, shedding

the military identity and norms that civilian society doesn’t recognise.

“RSL NSW works hard to offer its members opportunities to rebuild community and identity via initiatives such as family-

friendly and accessible sports and recreation, social activities and more.”

RSL NSW, with its charity partner RSL LifeCare Veteran Services, provides a range of support for veterans and their families including mateship and camaraderie, DVA claim support, employment services, and housing and homelessness

support, as well as myriad other programs to assist veterans as they transitions into new careers and settle into civilian life.

For a full list of RSL NSW sub-Branches and ANZAC Day commemorative services, visit www.rslnsw.org.au/ to discover how you can honour our veterans.

q Maraya Fameli and Meagan Harding with Stay Connected’s new community bus.

Medowie reserve named in honour of ex-councillor Geoff Dingle

By Marian SAMPSON

PORT Stephens Council will formally recognise the late Councillor and Freeman of Port Stephens, Geoff Dingle, with the naming of a reserve in Medowie in his honour.

Geoff Dingle was a long term resident of Medowie and served on Port Stephens Council for fourteen years.

Mr Dingle passed away in December 2019 after a long battle with cancer.

He was 69 years old.

Acting Mayor Giacomo Arnott said Mr Dingle was a highly respected Councillor who dedicated much of his life to his local community.

“The future Geoff Dingle reserve on Ferodale Rd will be central to tying Medowie’s CBD together,” Cr Arnott said.

“Medowie has a bright future ahead and I’m pleased to be part of a Council that is pushing ahead to make Medowie a better place to live and visit.

“Geoff was both a friend and mentor who I know dedicated a huge amount of time to his local community.”

Along with representing the residents of Central Ward for fourteen years, Geoff was

q Geoff Dingle during his tenure as a Port Stephens Councillor.

an active member of Scouts, a board member with the Hunter Regional Botanic Gardens, a member of the Hunter New England Health Advisory Panel, Chair of the Koala Plan of Management Committee and a member of Medowie Sports Council.

The Geoff Dingle Reserve will be located at 38 Ferodale Road, Medowie, which was recently purchased by Council for mixed residential and recreational use.

Central Ward Councillor Jason Wells said Mr Dingle lived in Medowie for more than 40 years with his wife Libby and their family.

“Geoff Dingle worked hard to get the best for his community.

“He watched Medowie grow from a small rural community to where it is today,” Councillor Wells said.

“The purchase of this land by Council is a key driver of the Medowie Place Plan and will be a catalyst for new development and growth in Medowie.

“It will help connect our residents to new recreation facilities and expand our town centre to cater for the growth of our community.

“Naming this important precinct after Geoff is a fitting tribute to a respected member of our community,” he said.

Mr Dingle’s wife Libby attended last week’s Council meeting to witness the dedication.

“Geoff loved Medowie and his community.

“He also loved volunteering and he held a firm belief there is no better reward in life than to freely

volunteer in support of the community,” Mrs Dingle said.

“I know my family and I are incredibly proud of Geoff and what he achieved for Medowie.

“We would like to

thank Acting Mayor Arnott, Councillors, and Port Stephens Council for recognising Geoff’s achievements and dedicating this park in his name,” she added.

Council will make a formal submission to the Geographical Names Board to name the recreational precinct at 38 Ferodale Road, Medowie as the Geoff Dingle Reserve.

q Acting Mayor Giacomo Arnott with Councillor Geoff Dingle’s widow, Libby Dingle, at the dedication of the Geoff Dingle Reserve during the Council meeting last week.

Authorised by Meryl Swanson MP, 35 Sturgeon St, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

By Marian SAMPSON

THE Raymond Terrace Lions Club have recently completed their annual Easter Raffle, raising more than $5500 for charitable causes.

The Lions Club thanked MarketPlace Raymond Terrace and the community for their ongoing support.

“The raffle was drawn on 6 April by some of the staff at MarketPlace,” Annette Clark of the Raymond Terrace Lions Club told News Of The Area.

The winning ticket

numbers were 0515, 3585, 1200 and 3387.

“The first prize winning ticket went to a lovely lady who is about to embark on her first trip to the UK to see her son whom she has not seen in five years.

“We wish her ‘Bon Voyage’.”

Lions Club members said witnessing the consistent generosity of the community is a humbling experience.

“We raised over $5500 which will be split between childhood cancer research and schools and charitable organisations in our area.”

The Lions are also hopeful that exposure to the public during the raffle could also

result in one or two new members getting recruited.

Raymond Terrace Lions fundraising for community projects

“This is gold, as all service clubs are facing decreasing membership numbers due, in part, to the ageing process,” Annette said.

“As a Lions Club, we are endeavouring to adapt our projects to address this, adding new and exciting projects to our calendar and staying in touch with the community,” she said.

If you would like to become a Lion and be a part of a worldwide organisation which serves their community you can find out more at www. raymondterrace.nsw.lions.org. au.

Charity golf day to support community radio, hospital

By Marian SAMPSON

IT’S time to dust off your golf clubs and get behind a couple of great local causes.

Port Stephens FM 100.9 (PSFM) and Business Port Stephens (BPS) are excited to announce their upcoming charity networking golf day, to be held at Nelson Bay Golf Club on Friday May 19.

The event is set to raise much-needed funds for the Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary and the PSFM community radio station and promises to be a fun-filled day of golf, networking, prizes, and giving back to the community.

The golf day will begin with registration and a coffee at 8:00am, followed by a shotgun start at 9:00am.

Participants will compete in teams of four Ambrose style, with brunch and a range of prizes on offer at a silent auction back at the clubhouse.

"We are thrilled to be

hosting our first-ever charity golf day," said Andrew Bowden, Marketing Manager with PSFM.

"We hope to raise as much money as possible to support the important work of the Community Hospital, and to

have some fun while doing it.

"We're grateful to BPS and the Nelson Bay Golf Club for co-hosting the event and to our supporters who have helped make it possible."

Business Port Stephens President Clive Jones said,

“We are delighted to support PSFM in their efforts to raise funds for the Hospital and the station.

“This event not only provides an opportunity for our business community to come together for a fun day of golf, but it also allows us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who benefit

from the Hospital.

“We encourage all of our members to participate and support this important cause."

PSFM are seeking donations of prizes for the silent auction, so if you or your business would like to donate a prize please contact the station on 4984 6666.

“We will be happy to

arrange collection of your donation, and to acknowledge your generosity on the day,” said Andrew.

Heavenly Tours, a member of BPS, have generously offered the services of a bus and driver to pick up and drop off those who do not wish to drive, including a trailer to transport the clubs.

Tickets are $65 per person and are available now via BusinessPortStephens.com under the Events tab.

Participants are encouraged to invite their colleagues, clients, suppliers, friends, family to join them for a fun day of golf for a good cause.

Deborah Schofield of the Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary told News Of The Area, “At the top of our wish list to provide to the hospital is a bariatric bed for the Palliative Care Suite which we will need $12,000 to purchase, however we know that the bed will make our patients in the Palliative Care Unit more comfortable.”

Soldiers Point local’s daring circumnavigation attempt

By Marian SAMPSON

SOLDIERS Point local Kev

Le Poidevin (62) is about to embark on a childhood dream, attempting to sail around the world as part of the Global Solo Challenge event.

Kev will be sailing single handed, non-stop and unassisted on his circumnavigation attempt, which departs from Spain.

The epic adventure commences on October 28 and Kev’s vessel is one of 27 yachts taking part in the handicapped challenge.

Kev’s credentials will stand him well in his attempt, being a qualified mechanic and avionics technician with around fifteen years experience.

Kev is also a project manager and electronics engineer who has served as an air sea rescue skipper for

nine years out of Southport in Queensland.

Kev has participated in the Sydney to Hobart and Trans-Tasman sailing races, and enjoys racing with Port Stephens Yacht Club around the Bay.

His vessel, ‘Roaring Forty’, was designed by Lutra Design and built in Estonia by Akton Yachts.

“I found the yacht in the Netherlands where it was surveyed and after purchasing it I flew over and managed the refit of the yacht which included new rigging, a new engine, new electronics and I am having a new mainsail made now,”

Kev Le Poidevin told News Of The Area.

Kev is sailing with a goal to raise awareness and funds for the Brain

Tumour Alliance Australia (BTAA) and Soldier On.

He has received some sponsorship from Zhik Australia and other

businesses have assisted with products.

The boat is already in Spain at the starting port, and Kev aims to complete the circumnavigation in 150 days, a target he believes is very possible.

Kev believes the biggest risk is attack by orcas

off the coast of Spain and he will be using pingers to tow off the back of the boat to lure the protected animals away from his vessel.

Kev’s voyage can be viewed on the Global Solo Challenge website.

q Lions Club members selling raffle tickets at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace to raise money for community projects.

q Representatives from Port Stephens FM, Nelson Bay Golf Club, Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary and Business Port Stephens.

q Kev’s vessel, Roaring Forty, has been refitted and is ready to take on the biggest challenge a sailor can face.

q Kev Le Poidevin is ready to attempt to make a childhood dream a reality by completing a single handed circumnavigation of the globe.

Karuah By Night a great success

By Thomas O’KEEFE

LIGHTS, music, food and family fun filled the spectacular autumn evening at ‘Karuah By Night’, held at Longworth Park on Saturday, 15 April.

Funded by the NSW Government’s Reconnecting Regional NSW Grant, ‘Karuah By Night’ was an initiative of Port Stephens Council, held to reinvigorate Karuah in the wake of the last few years of COVID restrictions.

Acknowledgement of country was complemented by the Midnight Dreaming Dancers, a group of young Aboriginal dancers under the tutelage of local artist and dancer Renae Lamb, out of Newcastle.

Music throughout the night was provided by musician/ singer Hamish McClure, from Gloucester, and musician/ singer Rochelle Rigby, from Medowie, in her first public appearance.

Local rock covers band Brewhaha delivered many beloved classics, including Midnight Oil hits.

As dusk fell, the neon installations and special water lights show began, with the Karuah River backdrop perfect for the nautical/undersea theme.

Other highlights of the night were the stilt-walking ladies, and the kaleidoscopic neon face-painting for the kids in the Neon Tunnel of Fun.

“It was an unbelievable night, with more people turning up than anyone could have expected,” said local Marion Brown.

“Some people even think this was bigger than the old Karuah Oyster Festival.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, who also attended, told NOTA, “It’s difficult to say what was shining more brightly on the night – the light show or the smiles on everyone’s faces.

“I loved seeing the Karuah community shining in every possible way.”

In fact, so many people enjoyed the dream-like

weather that most of the food trucks, as well as the local IGA and some restaurants actually sold out of food and beverages, too.

Such an overwhelming attendance is what the Reconnecting Regional Grant aims for, and local businesses have vowed to be even better prepared in future.

Karuah By Night was a welcome event after COVID shut down the Oyster Festival, and many visitors, locals, and businesses, affirmed that they would like to see this become a regular event.

KMYC ANNUAL FISHING COMPETITION

- Beach

club nights (Fridays).

q Large crowds descended on Longworth Park.

q Brewhaha performed Aussie rock classics after dark. q Medowie’s Rochelle Rigby made her live stage debut.

q Ladies on stilts kept festivities going beyond the twilight.

q The Midnight Dreaming girls displayed Aboriginal cultural dances.

Two men charged after Sydney to Swan Bay kidnapping

ROBBERY and Serious Crime Squad detectives have charged two men over the alleged kidnapping of a man and a woman at Fairfield earlier this year.

About 11.40am on Wednesday 18 January 2023, a 26-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were walking towards a carpark on Court Road, Fairfield, before two men wearing balaclavas grabbed the pair and forced them into a vehicle.

The vehicle then exited the carpark and was last seen travelling west along The Horsley Drive.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Robbery and Serious Crime Squad were notified and commenced an investigation under Strike Force Bultje.

About 12.15am on Friday 20

January 2023, the pair escaped a location at Swan Bay, about 25km north-east of Raymond Terrace, before calling a family member who contacted police.

Local officers from the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District attended and assessed the pair, before they were taken to John Hunter Hospital for treatment; the man's finger was severed during the incident.

Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives – with assistance from the Public Order and Riot Squad and South West Metropolitan Region Enforcement Squad (RES) – executed two search warrants at homes in Smithfield and Cartwright from 6.45am on Tuesday 4 April 2023.

Two men, aged 24 and 25, were arrested and taken to Fairfield Police Station, where they were both charged with two counts of take/detain in

company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm, and one count each of be carried

in conveyance taken without consent of owner, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

Police will allege in court the pair were taken to a location at Swan Bay where they were held against their will.

The older man was also charged with one count of damaging property by fire for a separate incident, where a Molotov cocktail was allegedly thrown towards a home in Bossley Park on Sunday 22 January 2023.

Both men were refused bail to appear at Fairfield Local Court earlier this month, where they were formally bail refused to reappear before Parramatta Local Court on Monday 1 May 2023.

Tanilba Road upgrade nearing completion

By Geoff WALKER

BY the time you read this, the $1,700,000 upgrade of Tanilba Rd, Mallabula could very well be all done and dusted and the thoroughfare back in use.

Originally scheduled for completion in November 2022, bad weather and supply issues have seen the project extended to April 2023.

With 'the big wet' occupying council's road gangs in repairing potholes and wash-outs, the job was put out to tender.

It is now more or less complete despite road base gravel being in

short supply.

The job is now back on track after the long awaited gravel arrived, was put in place and compacted.

All that is left now is for the hot mix bitumen crews to seal the surface.

Modern standards insist on extensive surveys before any digging can take place, and a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was completed at Mallabula where a section of the road skirted native bushland.

Preliminary work has already ensured that the major $3,000,000 rebuild of Avenue of the Allies, Tanilba Bay will be 'shovel ready' before June this year.

In anticipation of the upgrade, Council now has the foreshore linked

to the CBD with a wide concrete pathway along the eastern side of the road.

The residents of the Avenue of the Allies have always had as much as fifteen metres of 'free' land, as this is the width of a grassed strip between their front boundaries and the road.

Land was so cheap in the 1930s that the developer left a very wide easement.

On top of this, the sandy base at Tanilba Bay means very easy digging for the extensive drainage work required for the makeover.

Cr Steve Tucker said that affected residents had been notified by letterbox drop of all aspects of the road construction and were free to contact Council with any queries they may have.

q Two men have been charged over an alleged kidnapping of a man and woman at Fairfield in early 2023.

q Tanilba Rd ready to be sealed.

q Tanilba Bay’s Avenue of the Allies in the 1950s.

q Avenue of the Allies, Tanilba Bay is hoped to be 'shovel ready' by June.

Maitland Indie Festival open to submissions

By Lindsay HALL

THE Maitland Indie Festival is calling on local writers, artists, filmmakers, musicians and storytellers of all kinds to submit their expressions of interest for the event to be held in October.

Launching in 2020 the Indie Festival (IF) is a unique opportunity for creators seeking to discover how they can produce, publish or promote their work.

“In this day and age, it’s actually become quite easy to self-publish,” said festival director Graham Davidson.

“All that people need is to learn how to do that.

“That’s why Indie Fest was started.”

Where many writers festivals are opportunities for established authors to promote new material, Indie Fest has a mission to empower anybody who comes to find their voice.

“What we want is for people to be equipped to tell their stories.”

Evolving from being a writer’s festival IF Maitland has expanded their scope to include visual and performing arts.

The festival, which will run from 20 to 29 October, will host panels, workshops, book launches, art displays, plays, live music as well as film screenings.

Creators in the Newcastle/Hunter region are now invited to submit themselves and their work to the festival committee for consideration.

The festival can provide an opportunity to find an audience or a collaborator, share experiences that may be of help to fellow creators and to discover endless new stories.

Anyone interested can visit the IF Maitland website at https://ifmaitland.org/eois and follow the directions to submit their application.

The closing date for expressions of interest is 15 May.

Preserving local stories of service

By Marian SAMPSON

AS ANZAC Day approaches, the Tomaree Museum Association (TMA) is asking Port Stephens residents if they know of any local men and women who served in the defence of Australia.

The group wishes to preserve the knowledge that is held around the service men, women and animals of the region.

“We’d love to hear about a family member or friend who should be recognised on Anzac Day,” said Doug Cross, Chairman of the TMA.

“We’d like to feature their stories each Anzac Day.”

The TMA is holding an exhibition at the Visitors Information Centre in Nelson Bay during April to showcase the part Port Stephens and Newcastle played in defending the area in WWII.

On Anzac Day (25 April) the exhibition will be open from 10am until 2pm so people can call in either before or after the Anzac Day Service in Apex Park adjacent.

It will feature memorabilia supplied by the

Dorin’s Draws By

Paul DORIN

On theCouch

DEAR Jasminda,

My friend uses a filter when we are in photos together which makes her look completely different, but it makes me look different too.

I don't wear a lot of makeup and yet, in photos she posts on social media, I have impeccable eyebrows, bright lipstick, and my teeth are much whiter.

I'm happy in my own skin and just want to be seen in photos the way I am in real life. Flawed.

Dear Lillian,

Public amenities in Port Stephens to be more inclusive

PORT Stephens Council is ensuring the provision of sanitary bins in all public amenities.

Following a Notice of Motion from East Ward Councillor Leah Anderson, Council resolved to investigate the provision of sanitary bins in all public amenities.

Councillor Leah Anderson said she was notified by Western Sydney University Senior Lecturer Dr Michelle O’Shea a year ago that not all of the Council’s public toilets had sanitary bins, including the brand new toilets going into sports complexes in Port Stephens.

“I was so alarmed at this issue, I asked Dr O'Shea if she would speak to the Council at Public Access in support of a Notice of Motion that I would put up,” Councillor Anderson said.

“Council resolved to undertake an audit of all public amenities to determine what toilets were missing sanitary bins - for both women and menand to find a way to get this issue fixed.

“I was absolutely thrilled that at this week’s council meeting, Councillors unanimously supported the Council’s recommendation to proceed with the rollout of sanitary bins to all public toilets, right across Port Stephens,” she added.

A Western Sydney University Senior Lecturer with the School of Business, Dr Michelle O’Shea said that the provision of sanitary bins is a right that Port Stephens women, girls and people who menstruate have been denied for too long.

“Cr Leah Anderson and I are so proud to announce this outcome. Women, girls and people who menstruate in Port Stephens finally have a

families of prominent WWII military personnel including Catalina pilot Flight Lieutenant Donald Howard, and Lieutenant Mathieson, an army transport driver and CMF amphibious truck platoon commander who served in the Middle East and the Pacific; a fascinating collection of

q The Tomaree Museum Association plans to grow their exhibits to include the stories of local service men, women and animals.

hygienic and dignified way to dispose of their used period products,” Dr O’Shea said.

“Menstruation is a normal bodily function and one that should not prevent women, girls and people who menstruate from fully participating in education, sport, recreation or work,” she said.

Acting Mayor Giacomo Arnott wanted to thank Councillor Anderson for her work with this initiative.

"Cr Anderson's work in putting this proposal forward, and achieving such an important outcome for our community, is to be commended.

“This is exactly the kind of proactive work our community expects of our Councillors, and Cr Anderson is getting the job done,” Acting Mayor Arnott said.

Councillor Anderson said this is what action looks like.

“I received one email, had one meeting, listened and then delivered.

“I will continue to bring important items to Council and deliver for our community,” Councillor Anderson said.

The investigation by Council also identified the need to include these facilities not just in female amenities but also male amenities.

The Continence Foundation of Australia estimates 30 percent of men who visit the doctor are affected by incontinence and about one in six men develop prostate cancer.

maps, compasses, belt buckles and buttons used by Allied personnel as means of evading capture by the enemy; a WWII Army uniform; and interpretive signage telling the story of wartime training and defences in the Port Stephens/Newcastle area.

There was something quite fun about those early filters where everyone sported dog ears or devil horns or myriad other embellishments because we all knew they were fake (except for one expartner of mine whom I suspect really did have devil horns, but that's another problem for another day).

Now, though, filters can make you look like a sultry Hollywood star complete with narrow waist, peachy complexion, and teeth so bright they glow in the dark.

With retouch tools you can erase every blemish.

The problem is that sooner or later people who use filters have to head out into the real world, or go on a date, and no amount of soft lighting is going to remove those dark shadows and crowded teeth and the bit of Duck Pad Thai stuck to your double chin.

Then there's the other issue you've uncovered - the filtered by association issue - where everyone in the photo gets a glow up whether they want to or not.

This is particularly fraught when it's a family photo and they are all genetically enhanced with dark eyeliner, perfect brows, false eyelashes and blood-red lipstick: Mum, Dad, little Johnny in his soccer gear, and Bruce the now-emasculated Bullmastiff.

Good on you for keeping it real, Lillian.

Tell your friend to stop posting pictures of you unless you approve of them or else you'll start repaying the favour with an au naturel series.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

“It’s great that this initiative will also support men in our community.

“It’s not something that people talk about often but there’s a good chance of needing to seek out a sanitary bin if you’re a bloke,” Councillor Anderson said.

The sanitation bin program is to be funded through financial savings from the 2022-2023 budget and will be rolled out as soon as possible.

“If you are in the area or attending one of the many Anzac Day services, this exhibition will complement the day that we pay tribute to those who served in all theatres of war or in peace-keeping missions,” said Doug Cross.

Lillian R.

READING by Lynne Miles: Matthew 28: 16-20 (Abridged) "Jesus later spoke to His remaining eleven disciples. "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you even to the end of the age."

ENDLESS POTENTIAL AT SHOAL BAY VIEWS

• Quiet street position without the hustle and bustle of the tourist season but still close to everything.

• Original beach cottage with potential to renovate into a terrific weekender or permanent rental, or start again and build your dream home on nearly level block.

• Spectacular homes popping up all around in this idyllic suburb.

• Port Stephens’ iconic Shoal Bay - the only local area with beaches both inside the protection of the Port and surf beaches as well.

• Plenty of activities to suit everyone, including picturesque Tomaree Mountain, boat ramp, national park, selection of restaurants opposite waterfront.

• 150m to national park at end of street, with walking tracks to Wreck Beach and beyond. Within 1km of Shoal Bay Beach, Zenith Beach, Wreck Beach, Box Beach and not much further to Fingal Bay too!

• Top-floor apartment with 2 bedrooms and access to rear balcony running across the back of the unit.

• Open-plan living area with front balcony and fabulous views of pristine waterways of the Bay.

• Situated on the edge of Nelson Bay CBD, with access to cafes, restaurants, bars, boutique shopping, the Marina and Woolworths.

• 2 allocated secure car spaces and an owner’s storage locker for your convenience.

• Perfect for holidays, permanent living or investment.

• Don’t miss out on this opportunity to purchase lifestyle and location in the well-known and solid “Commodore” apartment complex.

LEVEL, VACANT LAND AT SOLDIERS POINT

• Rare opportunity to purchase vacant, level land in sought after suburb of Soldiers Point.

• 501 square metre block in close proximity to local schools, restaurants, and pristine waterways of Port Stephens.

• Perfect opportunity for those who wish to build their dream home from scratch in a great location.

• Soldiers Point is a paradise for holiday makers, families, and retirees surrounded by water.

• Area boasts the best boat ramp, amazing restaurants, internationally recognized Marina, community Tennis Courts, cafes, & beaches.

• Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to purchase land in this special place and build your dream home.

HEATH JONES STEPHEN COSTELLO HUGH MCINNES STEVEN BOOTH JACK JONES DEBORAH DORAN

Land

$365,000

ONE of the last chances to secure a LEVEL, well proportioned block in our fastest growing suburb. Perfect for investors, families, first home buyers or retirees! Located in "The Bower" Estate, Medowie and just minutes from schools, shopping, & Pacific Dunes Golf Course.

With a beautiful park and playground just 50 metres away, your new home will be perfectly positioned. The land dimensions are approximately 16.9m x 29.6m, with a total area of 500m2.

Only 15 minutes to Newcastle Airport and the RAAF base, and half an hour to either Newcastle or beautiful Nelson Bay.

About "The Bower" Estate.

Award-winning Hunter-based developers, McCloy Group developed The Bower, offering residential land set on an impressively spacious 127-hectares off Medowie Road in Medowie.

The residential land consists of an estimated 400 homesites across 57 hectares. The remaining 70 hectares will be preserved as state conservation area and open space.

The name, The Bower, has been inspired by the impressive home built and decorated by a male Satin Bowerbird, which is found in the local area. The bowerbird meticulously maintains the bower throughout the year beautifully decorating it with bright blue objects.

For more information, contact Nelson Bay Real Estate on (02) 4981 2655 or Tilligerry Real Estate on (02) 4039 9800.

4 Yale Crescent Medowie Vacant Land

Electric charging point helps Club move with the times

By Geoff WALKER

CLUB Lemon Tree is very much switched on at the moment, serving as the only public electric vehicle charging station on the Tilligerry Peninsula.

Club President Kevin Colman OAM said that clubs must move with the times to become competitive and offer services to their local areas and 'put back' into the communities which support them.

“Currently, we assist around forty sporting and community groups,” he said.

“Even during the Covid lockdown we were able to keep this going although the amount was a bit less,” he added.

To move with the times, Club

Lemon Tree has been well aware of changing attitudes to power use and the need to move away from fossil fuels.

Some 400 solar panels on the club's roof have saved them a fortune in power bills and lessened the need to rely on coal generated power.

“Rather than dig deep and completely replace our ageing air conditioning system,we will be installing smaller localised units which are more efficient until we decide on future plans for the club,” he said.

“A government grant helped us to install the electric vehicle charging bays.

“There is not a lot of demand at the moment but we must plan for the future in this rapidly changing world,” he stated.

Record breaking victory for Port Stephens Power AFL Women

By Chris KARAS

PORT Stephens Power Women's AFL team has undergone a major transformation in the Hunter Central Coast Seniors Black Diamond Plate.

Having merged with the Nelson Bay Marlins for the past three seasons, the women registered a lone victory in 2021 before narrowly missing a finals berth during last year’s competition.

For the 2023 season the club will compete as Port Stephens Power and have opened their campaign with rollicking victories over Newcastle City and Terrigal Avoca over the past fortnight.

The Power women were in a record-breaking mood last Saturday at Medowie’s Ferodale Oval when they thumped Terrigal Avoca by a whopping 134 points in a complete masterclass.

Power President Heather Marsh told News Of The Area, “The women have assembled a very talented young team that has captured the imagination of the Port Stephens sporting public.

“They are a delight to watch and continue to play an enterprising style of AFL with an emphasis on teamwork,” said Heather.

Power’s massive 20-21 (141) to 1-1 (7) victory over Terrigal Avoca was the biggest ever score in the club’s short history.

It followed their impressive first-

up 87-32 win over the powerful Newcastle City club to open the 2023 season.

Under the guidance of astute coach Beth Innes and inspirational captain Josie Johnson the Power have developed into a crack combination on the field.

Rookie Kristy Davies – in her first season of AFL - was best on ground with her natural marking skills a feature.

Davies has shown growth and skill improvement each week and was supported by Players’ Player Tamara Stacker, who sparked the record win with her exceptional ruck work.

In a super team effort, the Power won the majority of clearances with dominant performances by Kayla Pennicott and top juniors Taylor Smith and Angelica Diamond who both bagged six goals with their radar boots.

Debutant Alyssa Newbery kicked the first goal as Power racked up their highest ever score in the competition.

A highlight were the strong leads from the forward line with Davies, Jemma Astley and Mikaela Cameron creating passages of play to clear from the backline.

Port Stephens Power AFL Club has a strong junior base which includes Under 15 and Under 13 Girls, Under 9 and Under 11 Mixed plus Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 Boys.

Nelson Bay Golf Club Results

SUNDAY 9 APRIL 2023

Mens Stableford:

Brushbox Course

A1 Peter Maher (14) 35

A2 David Warder (9) 33

B1 Col Buchanan (19) 37C/B

B2 Dave Flatt (18) 37

C1 Iain Woodhill (27) 33

C2 David Birss (30) 32

Women Stableford:

Brushbox Course

A1 Charmaine Elliott (22) 36

A2 Jenny Frost (8) 34

B1 Rhona Birss (34) 32

B2 Ruth Buchanan (34) 31

MONDAY 10 APRIL 2023

Medley Stableford:

Gymea Lily Course

1 Barbara Frost

2 Toni Brendish

3 Ari Grace

VETS Stableford:

DIV 1:

1 Peter Page 21

2 Alan Bentley 21

DIV 2:

1 David Thompson 23

2 Stephen Huggett

TUESDAY 11 APRIL 2023

STABLEFORD 9 hole: Overall winner

1 Sharon Barnes

WEDNESDAY 12 APRIL 2023

Mens Stableford:

Xmas Bush Course:

A1 Bill Rarity (15) 37 c/b

A2 Kevin Hitchen (15) 37c/b

B1 Ray Moore (18) 42

B2 Col Buchanan (20) 38

C1 Les Williams (29) 42

C2 David Davis (35) 37c/b

Mens Stroke/ Max Double Par:

Gymea Course

A1 Lachlan Lawson (2) 69c/b

A2 Alan Pride (15) 69

B1 Dudley Herbert (23) 68c/b

B2 Steve Fogwill (22 68c/b

C1 Ron Willock (25) 66

C2 Richard Bates (27) 68

THURSDAY 13 APRIL 2023

Women’s 2 Person Ambrose: Brushbox Course

Over-all Winners: 1 Jeanette Knott & Debbie Buckley Score 83.5

2 Vicki Melrose & Denise Woodruff Score 87

Men Stableford: Brushbox Course

Over-all Winners:

1 Bill Shepard

FRIDAY 14 APRIL 2023

Women Stableford: Gymea course

A1 Fran Guides (16) 36

A2 Anita Hutchinson (29) 34 c/b

Mens Stableford: Gymea Lily Course

A1 Chris Gilbert (12) 32c/b

A2 Peter Metham (14) 32

A3 Peter Mentis (14) 31

B1 Damien Johnstone (23) 37c/b

B2 Bob Kew (17) 37c/b

B3 John Delaney (20) 37

C1 Darren Cooke (27) 33c/b

C2 Bruce Scott (24) 33

C3 Barry Elliott (28) 30c/b

SATURDAY 15 APRIL 2023

Nelson Bay Cup Gymea Lily Course

Over all Winners:

1 Doug Rouse (32) 66

2 Brad Rostron (14) 70

A1 Danny Plimmer (14) 71c/b

A2 John Clark (14) 71 c/b

A3 Harry Richards (8) 71

B1 Greg Bezuidenhout (17) 72

B2 Tyler Perrin (21) 74

B3 Peter beatty (17) 75 c/b

C1 Gerard Mitchell (24) 72

C2 Adam Bootland (24) 74 c/b

C3 John Fitzgerald (24) 74 Nelson Bay Cup Stroke:

1 Oscar Gilson -3 74 (Newcastle Golf Club)

2 Andrew Bowden 2 75 (Charlestown Golf club)

3 Lez Wallis 0 76 c/b (Charlestown Golf Club )

Mens Stableford: Christmas Course

A1 Kevin Hutchen (15) 40

A2 Jim Papworth (9) 37

B1 Bob Kew (17) 44

B2 Bob Kew (17) 44

C1 Terry Smith (29) 39

C2 Penton Sutcliffe (27) 37

q Port Stephens Power AFL Women celebrate their 134 point record-breaking victory over Terrigal Avoca last Saturday at Ferodale Oval, Medowie.

q The new electric vehicle charging station at Club Lemon Tree.

BIG CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

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.

Puzzle Play 172

CHART - 7 DAYS

THE RIGHT TABLE SHOW TIDAL VARIATIONS AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS

The time variation should be added to the corresponding Fort Denison time.

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated.

THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED

ANSWERS: SPOT THE

1. The bird has four tail feathers. 2. The umbrella toadstool is missing a spot. 3. There is an extra puddle on the ground. 4. The raindrop splash is missing from the large puddle. 5. One red spot on the toadstool at left is square. RHYMING PAIRS: Boat and coat. Car and star. Fish and dish. Fire and tyre.

Memorial Notice

Memorial for Brett Mitchell

Garage Sale

SATURDAY 22/4. 8am2pm. 1 Starboard Way Tea Gardens. Lawn Mower, Laptop, Electric heaters, Dog/Puppy Bed & Jackets, Clothes & Plants.

Free

Saturday 22nd April 10.30am

Sanderling Avenue Hawks Nest (on the beach)

Feel free to wear Parramatta Colours

Public Notices

Karuah Motor Yacht Club

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.

For Sale

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

Re280923

BUILDING materials for free. Approx 100 terracotta roof tiles VGC Reinforced timber gate 4ft6” square. Some hardwood timber. Pickup

21 Hunter Street Raymond Terrace F300323

FREE Outdoor table 6 chairs and cushions 0408 431 488

3 OROTON evening purses, collectables from the 1970s, converts from should strap to clutch beautiful cond. Like new Best offers. 49817523 F160223

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 & Childrens clothes, new, make an offer. 0457087178

For Sale

BICYCLES Girls and boys, VGC $20 each Ph: 4982 8628

COCA Cola sign in wooden and glass frame 40cmx30cm $25 Coca Cola mens red shirt with signage size XL $10 3 tow balls, 2 large heavy metal shackles. Best offer. Ph 4981 7523.

COSMOPOLITAN

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

For Sale

F2 Wave 8.4 windsurfer & fin, Mennem brand

8.5 litres VGC. $99. 0419

932 992. Tea Gardens F230223

GARDEN tools

Rake, Hoe, Mattock & Fork $15 each

Ph: 4997 0611

GASTRA Nitros

Windsurfer 9 meter sail & bag. Used only

4 times. $99. Mast 4.9

Luff 514cm Base 24cm Boom 249cm. IMCS

29. 0419 932 992 Tea

For Sale For Sale

NEW 5L water jug with tap. $15.00 Call 0493 078 190 F230323

OVER bed patient table Timber laminate & white $40. Ph: 4982 2335 F300323

PARRAMATTA

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

Ph: 4981 7523

TV Corner cabinet Shelving underneath 2 door unit, on wheels 100cm W x 60cm H 65cm L. $50. 4981 7523

UNIFORM, St Brigids winter pinafore, size J4 exc cond. No smoking home. $20. 0422070333

WELLINGTON boots as new size 10 $25 4997 0611

mail@kmyc.net.au Finduson Facebook

0415 419 741

For Sale

2 PERSON SOT kayak. $99.00 Call 0493 078 190 F230323

War Medals

Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215

COMPETITION WINNERS!

Congratulations to Otis from Hawks Nest and Victoria from Salamander Bay who both won the News Of The Area colouring in competition. We hope you both enjoy the Koala encounter

BBQ 5 burner with wok, inc rotissery kit, stainless steel on wheels with gas bottle. exc cond. $175 0458 422 338

Wanted to Buy

Antique China & Figurines, English Silver, Fountain Pens, Old Jewellery & Watches. Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 or Ron 0408 967 747

CAMPING

COUNTRY RIVER CAMP

Riverside camping at Booral Text for details 0418 945 252

Public Notices

Pesticide Use Notice

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) advises that the following pesticide use is proposed for use in the Bulahdelah area.

The pesticide fipronil will be for the euthanasia of wild European honey bees within the Varroa mite emergency eradication zone in the Bulahdelah area during the period from late April 2023 for up to 12 months.

This work is strictly controlled by NSW DPI, in accordance with an Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority permit [PER84929v2].

The bait stations will be clearly signposted and all directions of these signs including tampering should be followed.

For further information regarding this notice visit dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa

COLOURED standing bar signs. Tooheys beer 32x13cm. Swan Premium lager 30x10cm $10 each or $15 both Ice bucket, gold anodised metal, Wolf Blass insignia, 30cmH $10 Ph: 4981 7523

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

CURLING wands x 3 Near new. Big curl small curl, and crimper Separately $10 each Ph: 0457 087 178

DRESS, New, Short Sleeve, Golden Blue Marble print Size M / Maxi Length Light weight & lined $ 50. 0427 818 294 F230223

DRESS, New Sleeveless, Pink/Blue Multicolour Mid length Size M $45

Ph: 0427 818 294

DVD movies incl. drama and westerns, mainly last 5-20 years. Incl 1 TV series 10x10 disks $60 Ph: 02 4966 5000 F180822

ELECTRIC treadmill adjusts to incline Foldable. Tracks distances, times and calories. Has emergency stop function. $50

Ph: 4919 8117

ELECTRIC Saw Black & Decker $50 Ph: 4997 0611

ELECTRIC Heaters

1 Electric 700mm x 360mm 2000 watts

Gardens.

GOLF or Shopping Scooter, 4 wheel drive 2sp Lotus Blake Tycoon AZ36. Can be fully disassembled $2,950 ono. 4997 0435 e200423

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

GOLFING accessories

Golf balls - around 100? 20 cents each Golf buggy $25 Clubs and drives $2 each. Ph: 4982 2335

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

HANGING coloured print wooden frame, picture of large outdoor sign for indoor bowling. New in packaging 50cmL x 40cmW $15. 4981 7523

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

IKEA Stornas Bar Table GC. $95. 0493 078 190

LAWNMOWER and line trimmer. Both RYobi. 36V battery and charger. $365 0418 279 142

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

MOBILE phone ZTE excellent cond. $100 0457 087 178

1 Oil filled 2400 watts $40 for both. Please ring 0404 724 347 MOBILITY Scooter 4 wheel. Good cond. with front basket, rear bag and charger. $1200

EUROPEAN 2 x Single adjust slatted bedframes & 2 latex mattresses VGC $485 both

PH: 49979797

PORTABLE clothesline GC, $25. 0413 023 296 F091221

PRYDE Windsufing mast suits 7 metre sail. Little used. $99

Tea Gardens. Peter 0419 932 992 F260123

RAIL Corp Wall telephones and desktop push buttom phone 90’s Nokia Mobile 6300 in box, charger and manual 00’s. Samsung mobile and charger 00’s. 2 x Motorola units, chargers with info 90’s. Cheap best offers 4981 7523

RINGS Sapphire Diamond and Gold new $100. Gold with small Diamond $100. Mens ring with Sapphire $100 Ph: 0457 087 178 f130423

SALON hair dryer, new $20. 0457 087 178

SEKA Shoprider mobility scooter as new hardly used. Immaculate Front basket and rear bag. Blue in colour $2300. Can deliver Ph: 0418 430 643

SOFA Bed Floral linen fabric $80 0407 915 768

SPIRIT level aluminum surround 120cm L $20

Ph: 4981 7523

SNOW chains brand new, unused adjustable, suits 16 inch wheels or others $95 Tea Gardens. Peter 0419 932 992 F260123

ST Phillips uniforms boys Blazer size 24 $50. Boys summer shirts sizes 18, 20 & 22 $10 each

Ph 0415 353 798

TIMBER extendable dining table and 6 chairs VGC. Cream/peach colour $250. 4981 2251 e110523

TOW hitch clamp

WINDSURFER and fin 85 litres, Freerace 2.6m long. In a bag. No dings Some accessories available. $80. Peter 0419 932 992. Tea Gardens. F260123

WALKER heavy duty suits big person $100 Ph: 4982 2335

WOMENS Levi jeans new, size 8 - 10. $50 0457 087 178

WOMENS new black leather jacket, small to medium, worth $400, asking $100 0457 087 178 F130423

WOMENS new coat medium to large, wool worth $120, sell $50 0457 087 178 F130423

Boats

ATTN: Boat-carscaravans! Cut and polish, all paint work, Mag wheels polished or repaint, small sandblast and repaint parts For Quote: 0484 137 580

HORIZON 3.1m v nose punt. 8 H.P. 2/ stroke Merc. Gal. folding trailer Good condition No Rego. $3,100 Ono Ph. 0427 224 744

STACER 3.4m tinny with Mariner 15HP outboard UN497N on registered trailer CL6484. VGC ideal Bay runabout Many extras $2,000 Ph: 0414 568 563

2021 JAYCO Penguin Outback poptop. 5 months rego TJ25MB

As new $32,000. 0432 465 556 or 4997 2040

Free delivery

Ph: 0418 430 643

ReS040523

SCA brand new $15

Ph: 0493 078 190

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY MIDSOMER MURDERS

ABC, 8.20pm

FRIDAY TRACES

ABC, 8.30pm

Standout performances from a female-led cast help set this crime drama apart from the throng. Embellished with the moody backdrop of a Scottish town and the peculiarities and intricacies of forensic science (don’t mix acid and petrol), this second season has a new case to explore, with all the familiar faces, including Molly Windsor, Laura Fraser (pictured) and Martin Compston, returning. In tonight’s second instalment, Emma (Windsor) and Daniel (Compston) face tough decisions after the end of the trial.

FRIDAY, April 21

6.00 The Drum. Analysis of the day’s news.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Traces. (Mal) A second bomb attack puts pressure on McKinven and Sarah to find and stop the culprit.

9.20 MOVIE: Miss Fisher And The Crypt Of Tears Part 1. (2020, Mv, R) Phryne Fisher embarks on a globetrotting adventure. Essie Davis.

1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

Peace never lasts in Midsomer, but fans wouldn’t have it any other way. In tonight’s second instalment of season 23 – yes, this delightfully cosy detective series has composed intriguing murder plots since 1997 (retirement beckons but don’t fret) – it’s a place of investigation, rather than a destination, for much-loved DCI John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon, pictured). Challis Court is a swanky gated retirement community set up for former police officers, where the retired criminal catchers dream of relaxing and enjoy their golden years. When a new member of their community, Elaine Bennet (Sabina Franklyn), is found dead, it’s soon apparent this idyll is not all it’s cracked up to be.

I’M A CELEBRITY… GET ME OUT OF HERE!

TEN, 7.30pm

It’s been a bittersweet season

I’m a this year – while hosts Dr Chris Brown and Julia Morris (pictured) are happily ensconced in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, the “spiritual home” of the series, for the first time in three years, it’s the untraditional pairing’s last hurrah for the foreseeable future, with Brown decamping to rival network Seven in July. Until then, the number of hangry and humbled celebrities in the so-called jungle is starting to dwindle – two more are sent packing tonight in an emotional double elimination – so tune in for one of your last chances to see Morris and her beloved “Docteur” in action.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Wrecks That Changed The World. (PG)

8.30 Walking Britain’s Lost Railways. (PGa, R)

9.25 Exploring Northern Ireland. (R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av)

11.40 Cheyenne & Lola. (MA15+lv, R)

2.00 Romulus. (MA15+av)

3.50 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour Bitesize. (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, Pete Colquhoun and Charlie Albone give a World War II veteran’s garden a makeover.

8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) In Paris on business, a Harvard professor uncovers an ancient and far reaching conspiracy when he is asked to investigate the murder of the elderly curator of the Louvre whose body was found inside the museum. Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen.

11.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGl, R) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

1.00 Home Shopping.

Tilligerry Social Golf Club

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 8. Parramatta Eels v Brisbane Broncos.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Parramatta Eels versus Brisbane Broncos match, with NRL news and analysis.

10.40 MOVIE: Man On A Ledge. (2012, Mlv, R) A suicidal man distracts authorities. Sam Worthington.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

6.30 The Project.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal) Harries meets children from war-torn Ukraine.

8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Malv, R) Follows NSW Ambulance’s Sydney operations as it deals with a case involving a stabbing victim.

9.30 Territory Cops. (PGadl, R) A man wanted for a serious domestic violence charge has trapped himself on a balcony.

10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R)

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, April 22

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Breaking The Biz. (PG, R) 10.50 Earth’s Sacred Wonders. (R)

12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU Figure World C’ships. H’lights. 3.30 Athletics. Marathon de Paris. H’lights. 4.30 Going Places. (R) 5.00 Where Are You Really From? (PGa, R) 5.30 Lost Home Movies Of Nazi Germany. (PGavw, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

6.50 Bluey. (R) Bingo pretends to be Boss Bluey’s new employee.

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

7.30 MOVIE: Eat Pray Love. (2010, Ml, R) An unhappy woman goes on a round-the-world journey to find herself after undergoing a painful divorce. Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem.

9.50 Miniseries: Ridley Road. (PG, R) Part 1 of 4. A young hairdresser joins an underground movement trying to stop the rise of the far right.

10.50 Fires. (Mal, R) Farmers deal with the fire’s aftermath.

11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

7.30 The Wonders Of Europe. (PG)

8.30 A Year From Space. Images captured by satellite help tell the story of the big events of 2022.

10.00 Becoming Marilyn. (Man, R)

11.05 Outlander. (MA15+)

12.20 Germinal. (Masv)

1.20 The Big Fat Quiz Of The Decade. (Mls, R)

3.05 MOVIE: Little Woods. (2018, Mal, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SUNDAY, April 23

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Grand Designs: Tunbridge Wells. (PG)

8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv) Part 2 of 4. Barnaby investigates when a resident of a police retirement community is found dead.

9.50 Close To Me. (Madl)

10.40 MotherFatherSon. (Malns, R)

11.40 Smother. (Mal, R)

1.20 Road To Now. (PG, R)

2.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.05 Rage Closer. (R)

3.10 The Heights. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 Home Shopping.

7.00

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Geelong v Sydney. From GMHBA Stadium, Victoria.

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 MOVIE: Charlie’s Angels. (2019, Mv, R) A team of elite female agents, known as Angels, recruits the services of a young systems engineer who has blown the whistle on a dangerous new technology that her former employer is developing. Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska.

1.30 Home Shopping.

(2016, M, Dari)

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Fleche-Wallonne Women’s Race. H’lights. 3.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. FlecheWallonne Men’s Race. H’lights. 4.00 UCI World Tour. Amstel Gold Women’s Race. H’lights.

4.30 UCI World Tour. Amstel Gold Men’s Race. H’lights. 5.00 Going Places. (R) 5.30 Lost Home Movies Of Nazi Germany. (PGavw, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of The Giant Mammoths. (PG) An investigation into the mammoth.

8.30 The Black Death: Outbreak. (PG) Part 1 of 2.

10.30 Muhammad Ali. (PGavw, R)

12.15 24 Hours In Emergency. (PGa, R)

2.00 How The Nazis Lost The War. (PGa, R)

3.40 Mastermind Australia. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) The farmers meet two new ladies and choose one for a romantic date.

8.30 7NEWS Spotlight. (Return) An exclusive, special investigation.

9.30 The Latest: Seven News.

10.00 Born To Kill? Dale Hausner And Samuel Dieteman. (MA15+av) A look at Dale Hausner and Samuel Dieteman.

11.00 Quantum Leap. (PGav)

12.00 The Rookie. (Madv, R) The rookies develop confidential informants.

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PGhv, R) Boy wizard Harry returns to Hogwarts. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson.

10.45 MOVIE: Birds Of Prey. (2020, MA15+alv, R) Margot Robbie.

12.40 The First 48. (Mav, R)

1.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PGm, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R) 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters. (PG)

8.50 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.

9.50 Nine News Late. A look at the latest news and events.

10.20 Australian Crime Stories. (Mv, R)

11.30 The First 48. (MA15+al)

12.15 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+v, R)

1.10 The Garden Gurus. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Take Two. (R)

5.00 News Early Edition.

5.30 Today.

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) Harries meets children from war-torn Ukraine.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown.

8.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv) Danny helps Texas Ranger Waylon Gates deliver an infamous drug cartel boss to arraignment.

9.30 CSI: Vegas. (Mav) A silver ink note threatening Maxine Roby’s life is found at the crime lab.

10.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) Whistler struggles with a CI.

11.30 Fire Country. (Mv, R) A massive tree falls on Eve.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

5.00 Hour Of Power.

6.30 The Sunday Project.

A look at the day’s news.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebs will want to impress as they board the African Queen

9.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv) Captain Milius returns to Hawai’i as the NCIS team works to catch a dangerous high-value US government target with the help of an informant unlike any they have ever encountered.

10.00 FBI. (Mv, R) OA is forced to confront his fears.

11.00 The Sunday Project. (R)

12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

MONDAY, April 24

6.00 News. 9.00 News.

Landline. (R)

Antiques Roadshow. (R)

ABC News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Eat Pray Love. (2010, PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.20 Legacy List. (PG, R) 10.25 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 11.15 Icons. (PGalv, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 A Way Of Seeing. 2.20 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 3.15 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

TUESDAY, April 25

6.00 News. 9.00 Anzac Day March Sydney.

Foreign Correspondent. (R) 12.00

News On Anzac Day. 12.30 Gallipoli

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.25 Belsen: The Untold Story. (Mav, R) 11.25 Dylan Alcott: Sir Peter Cosgrove. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00

Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 To Be Advised.

1.30 Dog Patrol. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Kirby loses her songwriting mojo.

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

8.30 MOVIE: 1917. (2019, MA15+av, R) During World War I, two British soldiers are assigned the critical task of delivering a life-saving message. George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Colin Firth.

10.50 The Latest: Seven News.

11.20 How To Look Good Naked. (Man, R)

12.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

4.50 Anzac Day Dawn Service.

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

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown.

9.00 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mav) Remy pursues a depraved pastor and his sadistic brother who kidnapped two teenagers.

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)

4.00 My Market Kitchen. (R)

4.20 10 News First Presents: ANZAC Day.

SBS MOVIES (32)

FROM Page 1

Colonel Blimp. (1943, PG) 7.30 Amarcord. (1973, M, Italian)

9.45 Das Boot. (1981, M, German) 12.25am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGl) Hosted by Samantha Armytage.

9.00 Accused. (Premiere, MA15+av) A father he comes to believe that his teenage son may be planning an unimaginable crime.

10.00 The Good Doctor. (Mam) Marcus and Audrey clash over a patient.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+asv, R)

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities face their final food trial, before yet another celebrity will be eliminated from the jungle.

9.00 NCIS. (M, R) Gibbs and McGee head to Alaska as the team works to uncover the conspiracy behind the serial killer.

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

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

7MATE (64)

Singleton Army Lions and Nelson Bay Gropers tame

FROM Page 24

step.

Club President Renee Selby told News Of The Area, “Daniel is a huge addition to our Men's team and leads by example on the field with his strong

running and tackling.

“His work rate is phenomenal and he’s come back to the game with a new lease of life,” said Renee.

Medowie suffered a 19-13 opening round loss to the Singleton Army Lions last

Saturday at Boyd Oval with the tough tackling Carmody a standout in his comeback match and recipient of the Players’ Player Award.

Fielding a mix of new recruits with seasoned campaigners the Marauders

turned in a spirited performance – showing glimpses of the immense potential this squad has under new coach Josh Murphy.

Carmody led the way with his punishing defence as the

Marauders pushed Singleton Army to the hilt in a bruising encounter.

He was ably supported in the defensive stakes by forwards Mitchell Powell, Jake Nunn, Bradley Marshall and Brendon Norton with

some classic hits.

The Lions opened the scoring but had to work hard to stave off a determined Medowie challenge.

Undisciplined play cost Medowie as the Lions capitalised on a lopsided

WEDNESDAY, April 26

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Legacy List. (PG, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 11.05 Icons. (PGav, R) 12.00 WorldWatch.

(R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 3.40

Cook Up. (PG) 4.10 Secrets Of The Royal… (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

(PG) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Mal) The participants focus on their own strategies.

8.30 Brian Cox: How The Other Half Live. Part 1 of 2.

9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+lsv) Stirling arranges a rematch.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Furia. (MA15+av)

12.05 Unit One. (MA15+s, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

THURSDAY, April 27

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Legacy List. (PGaln, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05 Icons. (PGavw, R) 12.00 WorldWatch.

2.00 Dolly: The Sheep That Changed The World. (PGa, R) 3.10 Mastermind Aust. (R)

3.40 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Royal… (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 The Murdochs: Empire Of Influence. (M)

8.30 Asking For It. (Malv) Part 2 of 3.

9.30 Miniseries: Conviction: The Case Of Stephen Lawrence. (MA15+) Part 2 of 3.

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Exit. (Final, MA15+adv)

11.55 Beneath The Surface. (Madl, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club. (Premiere, M)

8.35 Accused. (Mav) After a married couple discovers their newborn is deaf, they elect to try a surgical procedure.

9.35 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGals) Sketch comedy series.

10.35 The Latest: Seven News.

11.05 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Tears For Daniel And Murder Of Innocence – Sian Kingi. (MA15+as, R)

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown.

9.00 Law & Order: SVU. (MA15+as) An internet dating site becomes the source of terror for a young widow. Muncy struggles with Velasco’s absence.

10.00 Fire Country. (Mv) A wildfire breaks out in Drake Country.

11.00 Bull. (Ma, R)

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PG)

8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions continue as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli and series creator Simon Cowell. Hosted by Ant and Dec.

9.45 The Front Bar. (M) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.

10.45 The Latest: Seven News.

11.15 Fantasy Island. (Ma) Roarke and Javier grow closer. 12.30 Home Shopping. 5.00 Seven Early News.

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

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Dr Chris Brown.

9.00 Gogglebox Australia. (Final) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

10.00 Law & Order: SVU. (Masv, R) Rollins catches up with an old flame.

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

tame Marauders in Hunter Suburban Rugby opener

penalty count to claim the competition points.

Young gun Wylie Wolter nabbed Medowie’s first try after a bust from fullback Jessey Bridge, enabling the winger to step inside and beat three defenders to score.

The game hung in the balance with Medowie taking points on offer via Bridge’s boot and a try by veteran prop Sam Holbert before squandering the smart work of experienced fly half Jake Montgomery.

Nelson Bay Gropers registered a 31-12 victory over the Southern Beaches/ Medowie Women in the later fixture.

Talented number eight Jessica Beam starred for the Gropers with a personal

tally of 21 points from three tries and three conversions with hooker Kira Ortolani and fullback Brie Napoli also grabbing five pointers. Having merged with Southern Beaches for the 2023 season, the Medowie girls are

still building combinations and will improve as the season unfolds.

Dynamic fullback Jemma Astley shone for Medowie in all facets to earn the Players’ Player Award, and her sideline conversion of flanker

Charmaine Wells’ try was an absolute gem.

Astley received strong support from try scorer and prop Holly Gavin and courageous winger Maggie Murphy, who tackled non-stop.

By Chris KARAS

WHEN it comes to leadership and bone jarring defence, they don’t breed them tougher than Medowie Marauders Rugby Club enforcer Daniel Carmody.

In his comeback season to the rugby code, the feisty prop forward has made a huge impact in the Hunter Suburban Rugby competition with his inspirational leadership skills and rugged tackling.

Carmody was a schoolboy rugby prodigy before taking a sporting sabbatical and returning to his beloved Marauders this year with a spring in his

CONTINUED Pages 22 to 23

q Medowie Marauders Men's team - captained by powerhouse prop Daniel Carmody - opened their 2023 Hunter Suburban Rugby campaign with a narrow 19-13 loss to Singleton Army Lions at Boyd Oval last weekend.