National honours for martial arts students
By Chris KARAS
SEVEN martial arts exponents from the Port Stephens region are ready to take on the world.
Bella James, Charli Butler, Kayla Henry, Keilana Henry, Blake Taylor and Charli Davies are part of a strong Australian Martial Arts team that will compete at the 2025 World Championships in Japan later this year.
They will be joined by their martial arts instructor and assistant national team coach Steve Wheatland, a decorated warrior on the international scene.
All hail from the Fit2Fight Martial Arts School at Raymond Terrace. Wheatland told News Of The Area that the selection of six of his students in the Australian team was a “culmination of hard training and sheer commitment”.
“These young and mature students have worked extremely hard to reach this standard, and their families, friends and the local community are very proud of what they have all achieved.
“For our national team, this is a wonderful opportunity to compete against the best on the international martial arts stage.”
Touring captain Bella James of Mallabula, is a five-
SCAM ARREST
q Assistant national team coach and Fit2Fight Martial Arts School Raymond Terrace head instructor Steve Wheatland, with students Bella James, Charli Butler, Kayla Henry, Keilana Henry, Blake Taylor and Charli Davies.
YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS
Metal makers reinforced as new US tariff threat emerges
By Kat WONG, AAP
AUSTRALIANS have been urged to come together and support homegrown industries as US President Donald Trump threatens hefty tariffs on more goods.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday announced $750 million in federal funding to develop new technologies for lower emissions and better productivity in Australian metals manufacturing.
The package provides some relief for the industry after America's 25 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium came into effect, aiming to ensure it remains internationally competitive.
As negotiations continue, the situation could worsen in the meantime after Mr Trump flagged the prospect of new tariffs to protect American agriculture.
"We need a Team Australia approach here, because there's going to be plenty more challenges ahead," Trade Minister Don Farrell told the Global Food Forum in Melbourne on
Friday.
"We need a united voice on trade from Australia's exporting community and, most importantly, from our politicians."
Billions of dollars in Australian beef, wine and other agricultural exports could be next on the chopping block, with Cattle Australia chief executive Chris Parker saying he is "extremely concerned" by Mr Trump's protectionist comments.
But Senator Farrell said he had spoken to US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Friday and would continue to back farmers' interests, comparing the US negotiations with discussions that recently led China to lift similar trade restrictions on Australia.
"We'll stand with you from shoulder-to-shoulder to protect our trade interest, just like we did to resolve all those issues with China," he said.
The coalition says the federal government hasn't done enough to secure an exemption from the steel and aluminium levies, and should
have sent the prime minister for face-to-face talks with Mr Trump.
"If the government doesn't get its skates on, then we're going to have further tariffs applied to Australia," Opposition Leader Peter Dutton told reporters on the NSW central coast.
But Senator Farrell said none of the countries that secured an exemption in Mr Trump's first term had managed to secure a repeat, regardless of whether they met with the president.
"The decision was already made," the trade minister said.
As Australia continues negotiations with the US, a trade war is taking shape in the northern hemisphere after Mr Trump threatened to slap a 200 percent tariff on wine, cognac and other alcohol imports from Europe following its plan to impose retaliatory levies on US whiskey.
Former Labor leader Bill
Shorten urged Australia not to rule out a similar response.
"At the end of the day, if they keep putting tariffs on all of our goods, then we've got to reciprocate dollar for dollar, tariffs for tariffs," he told Sunrise.
However, the government has continued to talk down
this option as it would push up prices for consumers.
"We do not impose tariffs on US goods into Australia and we expect the same," Mr Albanese said.
If Australia is slapped with further tariffs, Senator Farrell said it could try to diversify exports and enter
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trade agreements with other nations.
The federal government has also encouraged shoppers to purchase local products and will allocate support for a "buy Australian" campaign in the budget, to be delivered on 25 March.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE APPLICATIONS LODGED FROM 02/03/2025 TO 09/03/2025 Information is correct at time of printing. For up-to-date information visit Council’s DA Tracker at datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au or contact us on 4988 0255.
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SOLDIERS POINT
S4.55(1A) Modification to dwelling alterations/ additions – remove spiral stairs, add outdoor lift
33 Irene Cres 16-2025-85-1 1 into 2 lot Torrens Title subdivision (including demolition works)
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S4.55(1) Modification to multi dwelling (5) housing and strata title – correction of stamped plans
REUSE HUNTER
RE-USE, REPAIR AND REDUCE
Are you looking to fix an old bike, donate furniture, or shop for preloved fashion? ReUse Hunter empowers you to locate a circular business in Port Stephens. Designed by the Hunter Joint Organisation and funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority, ReUse Hunter has been developed to help community members re-use or repair products to minimise waste and keep valuable products in circulation. For more details, visit: huntercircular.com.au/ reuse-hunter
WORKSHOP SUNDAY 11 MAY 2025
Whether you’re a seasoned rider, new to motorcycling, or returning after a break, join us for a free workshop focused on rider risk management. Share experiences with local riders and contribute to a safer Hunter Region. This event is funded under the Local Government Road Safety Program by Transport for NSW. For more details and to register, visit: pscouncil.info/motorcycle-safety-workshop
NELSON
q Funding has been announced to help metal makers remain competitive as US tariffs weigh. Photo: Julian Smith/AAP PHOTOS.
Man charged for alleged holiday rental scam
FROM Page 1
2025, officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command began an investigation following reports of an alleged scam.
Police have been told that 31 victims had lost in excess of $500,000 in a holiday rental scam.
Following inquiries by police, officers executed a search warrant in Argyle Avenue, Anna Bay on Thursday 13 March 2025.
A 51-year-old man was arrested and taken to Nelson Bay Police Station where he was charged with 31 counts of “dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception" and one count of “contravene AVO”.
He was granted
conditional bail to appear at Manly Local Court on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
Anyone with information about this
incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au.
Information is treated
in strict confidence.
The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
Raymond Terrace martial arts students to represent Australia
FROM Page 1
time national champion and a current world champion at the age of 13.
The Hunter River High School student, who has been trained by Wheatland at his Raymond Terrace school since the age of seven, claimed her first points contact world title at last year’s championships in Japan.
Charli Butler, an outstanding 10-year-old prospect, earned a silver medal at the 2024 World Championships for her two-
minute free sparring alongside 12-year-old sibling Kaliyah.
Competing in the 70kg division, Wheatland collected a bronze medal in the full contact discipline along with Konrad Thomas (80kg division).
Four of the Fit2Fight national representativesKayla Henry, 39, 15-year-old Keilana Henry, 17-year-old Blake Taylor and 10-year-old pocket dynamo Charli Davies, will be making their world championships debut at Ito City in November.
A trivia night has been
organised on Saturday 5 April at the martial arts school in Port Stephens Street, Raymond Terrace, from 6.30pm, to help raise funds for the national representatives.
Fit2Fight caters to individuals of all ages and offers a diverse range of classes including taekwondo, self defence, kickboxing, sparring, Little Ninjas, gymnastics and Live Stronger training for over 60s.
The programs emphasise fitness, strength training, positive mental health and self-confidence.
Three charged following pursuit and collision
THREE people have been charged following a pursuit which started in Newcastle and culminated in Hexham.
About 2.50am on Friday 14 March 2025 officers attached to Newcastle City Police District observed an allegedly stolen SUV travelling on Glebe Road, Hamilton South.
Police attempted to stop the vehicle, and when it did not stop, a pursuit was initiated.
The vehicle was pursued through several suburbs of
Newcastle and the pursuit was terminated when the SUV collided with a vehicle on the Pacific Highway, Hexham.
The SUV then came to a stop on the side of the roadway, where the alleged driver – a 33-year-old man – ran from the vehicle.
The man was arrested following a short foot pursuit.
Two other occupants of the SUV – a 53-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman –were also arrested.
q Officers executed a search warrant in Argyle Avenue, Anna Bay on Thursday 13 March. Photo: NSW Police.
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Grant for Hunter cancer researcher
FUNDING has been awarded to a Hunterbased researcher focused on improving outcomes for regional and rural cancer patients.
The NSW Government funding comes as part of a $10 million boost to cancer research across NSW.
The 18 grants, delivered by the Cancer Institute NSW, include $798,790 to the University of Newcastle’s Dr Jennifer Mackney to improve patient access to prehabilitation services in rural and regional NSW.
In 2024 approximately 165,000 people were diagnosed with cancer in Australia; around 132,000 of these people will need surgery, often multiple times.
“Prehabilitation before cancer surgeryincluding exercise, nutritional optimisation, and psychological support - has been shown to improve physical function, halve postoperative pulmonary complications, and reduce postoperative hospital length of stay,”
said Dr Mackney.
“A model of care for the delivery of prehabilitation using in-person and telehealth intervention has been developed in Newcastle over the past five years and utilised clinically.
“However, currently rural and regional patients don’t have equitable access to formal prehabilitation programs.”
The grant will enable Dr Mackney to extend access to the prehabilitation program for cancer patients across five regional and rural hospitals, three in the Hunter New England LHD and two in the Mid North Coast LHD.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
A RARE gem comes to cinemas this week in Flow, a film from a Latvian animator named Gints Zibalodis.
In the aftermath of a great flood that has apparently wiped out humanity, a stray cat wanders the now empty cities and landscapes,
entire sequences from the 1937 original.
bonding with a labrador, a capybara, a secretarybird and a lemur as they try to survive the rising waters.
This film is beautifully animated using “Blender” - open-source (free) software - and is a remarkable achievement in storytelling.
Disney attempts to crown a new live-action princess in Rachel Zegler with the release of Snow White
Going back to the well of classics, this time the “live-action” remake is brimming with computer animation, as they attempted to lift
Despite an earnest performance from Zegler, and a pretty perfect casting of Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman) as the Evil Queen, the CGI does not convincingly bring the seven dwarves to life.
Coupled with additions to the plot to portray Snow White as a revolutionary leader, this adaptation falls a little flat.
The Alto Knights is an impressive effort to keep the “American Gangster” genre alive, teaming director Barry Levinson with screen legend Robert De Niro.
DeNiro pulls double duty portraying two real-life figures, Vito Genovese and Frank Costello - once influential bosses in the Luciano crime family.
The film's narrative focuses on the relationship between the two men, and particularly the circumstances surrounding the attempted murder of Costello at the order of Genovese.
A pair of staggeringly good performances are at the centre of New Zealand thriller The Rule of Jenny Pen.
Geoffrey Rush plays Stefan, a former judge who is forced to enter aged care respite following a decline in health.
Adjusting to his new life is complicated by Dave (John Lithgow), a long-term resident who seems to delight in the discomfort of others, and is never without his baby-doll puppet, “Jenny”. Rush has never put in a poor performance - neither has Lithgow for that matter - but this film gives both men the chance to really show off their amazing capacity (and Lithgow’s accent is flawless).
Ralph Fiennes enters the ranks of middleaged male actors capable of impressive violence with the historical drama The Return
Based on the closing sections of Homer's Odyssey, Fiennes stars as Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca and leader of the Greek victory in the Trojan war.
Two decades after that conflict, Odysseus washes up ashore his homeland to discover obnoxious and cruel young men court his wife, Penelope (Juliette Binoche), who still holds out hope of his return.
Ripe with philosophical pondering as well as sudden acts of violence, this is probably a good candidate for “Guys’ Movie of the Year”. Locked is an honest-to-goodness, 90’s style high-concept thriller with modern polish.
A remake of a 2019 Argentinian film, 4x4, Bill Skarsgard stars as Eddie, a down-on-hisluck lawbreaker who thinks he’s scored easily when he finds a car sitting unlocked.
His joy turns to terror when the car's owner (Anthony Hopkins) locks him inside and controls the vehicle remotely, intending to teach the young thug the consequences of his actions.
The film is a string of one nail biting sequence after another, all set to the dulcet tones of Sir Anthony’s voice.
q The University of Newcastle’s Dr Jennifer Mackney.
War of words over US tariffs
FEDERAL Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson has accused the Liberal Party of spreading fear amid Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on all steel and aluminium products imported into the US.
Ms Swanson said the decision will hurt the US economy and could impact its trading partners, including Australia.
“Equally troubling are reports of the opposition Liberal Party failing to stand up for Australia at this time and undermining our local industries like Tomago Aluminium,” she said in a statement last Thursday.
“I am deeply disappointed that instead of working constructively, to support Australian industry, the Liberals have instead focused on using their time to try to sow fear and worry amongst our
proud workforce.
“It is frankly disgusting and completely against the interests of my community and the whole country.”
Tomago Aluminium is Australia’s largest aluminium smelter and has been operating 24 hours a day since 1983.
Ms Swanson noted the local smelter has successfully diversified its export markets, and exports only a small percentage of its products to the US.
“[Tomago Aluminium] continues to be our largest aluminium smelter and a major contributor to our local economy,” she said.
“The Liberals and Nationals are showing that they will not back ‘Team Australia’ and will not work in the interests of Australian industry, if it suits their political advantage.”
In a statement released last week, the Coalition placed blame for the tariff
squarely on the Albanese government, arguing it had “failed to secure an exemption”.
“Prime Minister Albanese has only had one serious phone conversation with our most important ally,” said Shadow Trade and Tourism Minister Kevin Hogan.
“I think the fact he now can’t even get the President on the phone says everything about his weak leadership,” he said.
“During the Coalition’s time in Government, Australia successfully negotiated exemptions from United States steel and aluminium tariffs.
“It was an even more favourable opportunity for this government to secure an exemption.
“The US enjoys a substantial trade surplus with Australia, and we are investing heavily in the US defence industry through
q Tomago Aluminium is Australia’s largest aluminium smelter and has been operating 24 hours a day since 1983. Photo: Tomago Aluminium.
Liberal candidate for Paterson Laurence Antcliff said the government’s inability to arrange an exemption is “an insult to all our local workers and their families”.
“The time for inaction is over, they must immediately engage with the US administration to secure tariff exemptions and safeguard local jobs,” he said.
“Australia has always been a strong ally of the United States, and
in return, we deserve fair and equitable trade arrangements.
“The Albanese Government’s refusal to fight for our industries sends a dangerous message: that Australian businesses and workers are expendable.”
Ms Swanson said the Labor government has made “significant efforts” to strengthen Australian industries in recent years.
“This includes initiatives such as assisting aluminium producers to
transition to renewable energy, enhancing regional energy infrastructure, and supporting innovative local businesses.
“As your local Member of Parliament, I remain committed to championing a ‘Buy Australian’ campaign in the upcoming March Federal Budget.
“We need a united ‘Team Australia’ approach to ensure our local industries are supported and that local jobs remain a priority amid global uncertainties.”
AUKUS.”
Safer roads at level crossings
A NEW program will give regional NSW councils the chance to share in $1 million for projects to upgrade roads at public level crossings.
Applications opened on Monday for the NSW Government’s Level Crossing Improvement Program - Regional Council Minor Works.
The grants will be for works that make road approaches to level crossings safer by improving sighting distances and advanced warning systems.
This could include vehicle-activated signage, line marking, upgrading or installing street lighting, traffic calming treatments (excluding speed limit reductions) and minor road realignments.
Transport for NSW
Chief of the Centres for Road Safety and Maritime Safety, Bernard Carlon, said the new program will help councils carry out minor, low-cost engineering work and safety improvements on road approaches to level crossings.
“There are over 1300 level crossings located on public roads across NSW and collisions between trains and vehicles are a major road and rail safety risk,” Mr Carlon said.
“These grants will enhance safety for motorists and rail users - passenger and freight - and are a step towards the NSW Government's goal of zero road trauma by 2050.”
Councils have until 2 May to apply for a share of $1 million in grants that are on offer for the 2025/26 financial year.
Pickleball event a seniors success
By Jacie WHITFIELD
Gardens reopening after storm
THE Hunter Region Botanic Gardens are reopening after suffering significant damage during storms on 15 January. Hundreds of trees were knocked down throughout the 125 hectare site and the Gardens have been closed to the public since then.
“It was truly heartbreaking,” said Ken Page, chairperson of the Heatherbrae-based gardens.
“We arrived at our front gate the morning after the storm and had to call in some of our volunteers to bring their chainsaws from home to cut our way in.
“There were four 30 metre gum trees across our picnic area, our children’s playhouse was completely smashed and there was not even one of our walking paths not blocked by fallen trees.
“From the front gate right through to the back of the property, there were trees down everywhere.”
The Gardens are run entirely by volunteers, receive no ongoing government funding and rely on gate takings and donations to operate.
The sheer size of the cleanup job at hand for volunteers
IN celebration of the NSW Seniors Festival, Boat Harbour Recreation Club held a free morning tea and introduction to pickleball event on Wednesday 12 March. It was an opportunity to celebrate and encourage older, local community members to try the sport. According to the Pickleball
was quickly overwhelming, so the Gardens asked the community for help clearing trees and debris.
Emergency services groups such as the SES and RFS also lent a hand and their equipment.
Despite the assistance, hanging branches in trees were a major problem, particularly due to the cost of arborist services.
“Many of our volunteers were here for the aftermath of the Pasha Bulka storm in
2007, and they say that this storm has caused far more damage,” said Mr Page.
“But they all rolled up their sleeves and got on with the job of restoring what they could.
“They are an awesome bunch of people and it shows that these Botanic Gardens are built with love and the community needs to come together now to support that effort.”
To raise funds for the Gardens, and to welcome
the community back in, a reopening event will be held on Sunday, 30 March from 10am. Features of the day include live music, a sausage sizzle and a plant sale.
Entry will be by donation. Any extra donations towards the storm clean-up fund are appreciated.
The event will be opened by Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson.
Some areas of the Gardens remain out of bounds due to storm damage.
Australia Association (PAA), the sport’s popularity is reflected in the substantial increase in membership and affiliated clubs.
Soldiers Point started playing socially a couple of months ago.
“Surprisingly, as someone who never enjoyed playing team sport, I’m loving it,” she
said.
“It’s fun, easier to play than I expected, and is a great way to combine fitness and socialising.”
Approximately 30 people came along to the morning tea, with many now keen to play pickleball regularly after receiving instruction from more experienced local players.
The Boat Harbour Recreation Club, which is run by a small volunteer committee, is proud of its clubhouse, tennis and pickleball courts, which are well used by the local community.
Introductory lessons are held each week and can be booked by emailing the Boat Harbour Recreational Club on boatharbourrecclub2316@ gmail.com.
Attendee Fiona Brown of
q Morning tea after trying out the game of pickleball..
q New pickleballers ready to volley at the NSW Seniors Festival event.
Former larrikin leads school’s cultural revitalisation
By Jacie WHITFIELD
ISAAC Nettle has transformed from a “naughty schoolboy” who rejected his culture, to a teacher sharing inherited knowledge and leading a cultural revitalisation.
Mr Nettle is a proud Worimi man and the Aboriginal Education Officer at Anna Bay Public School.
Mentored by his Nan Beryl - an Aboriginal Elder - he is inspired to repay the belief, respect and sense of belonging he discovered as he
embarked on his own cultural journey.
Having experienced feeling lost, he now believes that “culture finds you” when you are willing and curious.
Leaning into his strengths of relatability, helpfulness and inclusivity, he believes he has become “the person I needed in school.”
Helping to care for his six siblings exposed Mr Nettle to life events that showed how experience and trust are needed to help children feel safe, open and engaged.
And he believes Aboriginal culture should be shared with everyone.
Following the tradition of “knowledge holders”, he has branched off to specialise in programs for all children that teach language, dance and playing the didgeridoo.
He has a dream to bring back Gathang, a language he is expertly teaching his Nan and Aunty Sheryl.
He said the women were behind his pivot from “misbehaving to thriving and feeling alive.”
“Identifying my mob, going out on Country and connecting, listening to Dreamtime stories, doing
language studies, beach didgeridoo, and discovering pride in who I am and where I come from, are the
experiences that transformed my shame into a desire to Close the Gap and to share the local history of the Worimi and the importance of Aboriginal culture in our area,” he said.
“I wouldn’t be the bridge between schools and Aboriginal families or the one taking kids to NAIDOC assemblies, dance and Gathang choir, if the teachers at Anna Bay Public School - and the people within my inner circle - didn’t believe in me and help me to build my confidence.”
to encourage well-being, connection, culture and conversation.
Round, inward-facing yarn circles, where there is no hierarchy or judgement, create equality and a safe, all welcoming area to resolve conflict, ask questions, solve problems, share burdens or just have a chat.
The idea that no one leaves the circle until there
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COACH
(Rise Up) room and outdoor Ngarralbaa (listening place) are two dedicated spaces within Anna Bay Public School specifically designed
q Proud Worimi man Isaac Nettle in the Wakali Room at Anna Bay Primary School.
q Isaac Nettle with the didgeridoo he teaches others to play in lessons on Birubi Beach.
Sniffer detection dogs in action
TWO canines – Daisy and Henry – are aiding Port Stephens Council crews to detect the invasive weed known as Chinese Violet.
Council’s Natural Systems Coordinator Kate Drinan said the initiative will help map and manage the spread of the weed in key areas across Port Stephens.
“The dogs are great at spotting smaller plants that otherwise the human eye cannot see which helps us pin point areas to target," Ms Drinan said.
“Chinese Violet is particularly problematic in Port Stephens and if we find it, we want to try and eradicate it,” she added.
Once the dogs detect the weed, Council crews then work to spray or hand pull the weed and continue to monitor the area.
“It can be like finding a needle in a haystack at times,
especially in dense bushland, so these dogs will really help narrow down the area we need to focus on,” Ms Drinan
q Indago Environmental Director and Dog Handler Naiomi Finlayson with Henry. said.
Both Daisy – the cocker spaniel, and Henry – the border collie, have undergone
q Invasive weed detection dog Daisy.
intense training for the job.
Indago Environmental Director and Dog Handler Naiomi Finlayson said the dogs love this type of work.
“They’ll go out into the bush with me and I’ll ask
them to find Chinese Violet – when they come across it, they’ll indicate so I can take the locations and report that back to Council,” Ms Finlayson said.
“We make sure to always reward them when they successfully find and indicate a trace of Chinese Violet.
“It’s a day of searching, treats, rewards and a swim afterwards for both of the dogs,” she added.
Tips to support animals during storms
By Thomas O’KEEFE
PROMPTED by recent severe weather, the RSPCA is sharing important tips for managing animals during storms and natural disasters.
The key is preparation, according to the animal protection not-for-profit.
“We know these extreme weather conditions can be stressful but if we take the time now to prepare inclusive and comprehensive plans, it can make all the difference to keep us and our animals safe and protected,” said Anne Keyvar, RSPCA NSW Emergency Response Manager.
Owners should ensure their animals have an emergency kit ready to go with food (including any special dietary requirements), water and medication they may need to cover a minimum of 72
hours.
Emergency kits should contain the following: food and water (at least three days’ supply); medications and veterinary records; sturdy carriers, leads, or halters; familiar bedding and comfort items; litter, waste bags, or other waste disposal supplies; and identification tags and microchip details.
“It is vital that your animal has correct identification information on their collars and to check that their microchip details are up to date, in case they become separated from you or your property,” Ms Keyvar said.
“For horses or other livestock, attach ID tags with a contact number securely to their mane. These tags should be prepared in advance and kept in your emergency kit.”
Pindimar-based
equestrian Margarete Lethorn, who has been working with horses her whole life, has some practical tips for larger animals.
“For the horses, keep extra feed, leave them naked (i.e. no rugs), provide a safe shelter, and secure anything that can blow around,” Margarete told NOTA.
“[Offer] lots of pats and treats.
“Horses and many other animals may be spooked by lightning and thunder, and may even hate the rain, preferring to be dry from it, even if they love swimming in the ocean.
“I keep them high and dry as much as I can so there's no risk of flooding for them, and beware that prolonged wet ground and mud rots their feet.
“People in flood-prone areas should write their phone numbers on their
hooves in permanent marker and plait tags into their manes.”
The RSPCA stresses that, in flood-prone areas, all livestock, horses, and other outside animals should be moved to higher
ground or transported to a safe property with friends and family where possible.
It is important to not tether animals outside during the storm as they may harm themselves trying to break free.
GOOD SAMARITAN DONKEY RESCUE
PORT STEPHENS News Of The Area
A sanctuary for donkeys
HAVING saved her first donkey in 1972, Jo-Anne Kokas OAM formed The Good Samaritan Donkey Sanctuary Inc. (GSDS) in 1990.
The Sanctuary offers shelter, food, refuge and care for abandoned, lonely and ill donkeys.
It also helps owners who are no longer able to care for
their donkeys due to poor health or needing to move residence.
Most donkeys come to the attention of the GSDS via the public, RSPCA, police or rangers.
Typically, donkeys are delivered to the Sanctuary, but often it must organise collection from hundreds or
even thousands of kilometres away.
The GSDS covers some 300 acres, with paddocks providing hilly and flat grazing land.
It also features an Intensive Care Unit with stalls and equipment to cater for sick donkeys in need of constant care. The total herd
fluctuates between 70 and 150 donkeys.
Currently 101 residents are in care at the Sanctuary, which includes the Hospital and ICU unit.
The Sanctuary relies on the animal-loving public for donations.
150
If you need to leave animals outside on your property, please provide plenty of access to water and food in heavy, secure bowls and ensure objects are tied down to reduce risk of injury.
q The total Sanctuary herd fluctuates between 70 and
donkeys. Photo: Julia Caird Photography.
q Domestic pets, like Buffy, grow to rely on humans for comfort and care during wild weather.
q Horses Eli and Beau appreciate having a place to seek refuge from the rain.
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- it's an incredibly designed, fully equipped commercial opportunity in a prime location.
Spanning 322m² on the ground floor with 163m² of mezzanine and an additional 73.5m² third-floor storage mezzanine, it offers a total entitlement of 364m² and an impressive total floor space of 485m² plus storage and
parking.
The fit-out is nothing short of stunning, featuring a sealed epoxy resin floor, a high-end showroom with a cathedral ceiling, and multiple workspaces.
The ground floor includes dedicated car bays, a lounge area, kitchen, large office, full bathroom, and an extra toilet, while upstairs boasts a huge mezzanine, laundry area, lounge, and another large multipurpose room.
Additional features include a 19kW solar panel system, 3-phase power, and three allocated parking spaces (42m²).
With street frontage to Shearwater Drive, the building also faces Port Stephens Drive, ensuring excellent visibility.
Located just 400m from the new Homemaker Centre, home to Harvey Norman, Spotlight, and more, this is an industrial space that stands out.
A rare opportunity to secure a high-end industrial space in an unbeatable location - enquire today!
For more information or to arrange a private viewing please contact Nelson Bay Real Estate on 0249812655. Open seven days.
OPINION & LETTERS
From the MAYOR'S DESK
By Mayor Leah Anderson
WE know how important safe and reliable roads are to our community.
Through ongoing conversations with residents and businesses, my fellow Councillors and I know that well-maintained roads need to be the priority for Port Stephens Council. We’ve heard your concerns, and we’re taking action.
The Port Stephens Roads Acceleration Program (RAP) will direct more than $20 million into the rehabilitation and repair of the Port Stephens road network.
The RAP will bring together our current road funding and create a way to attract more money for road improvements across Port Stephens.
Through the RAP, we’re investing $7.1 million from the Special Rate Variation to target road maintenance and upgrades.
We’ve also secured $10 million in State and Federal grants to boost our efforts.
But, with over 800kms of road to manage and maintain, there is still so much more to do.
That’s why over the next few months, my fellow Councillors and I will be actively exploring additional savings and new funding sources to expand the RAP even further. As these opportunities arise, we’ll be talking to our community soon about potential funding opportunities that will allow us to build on this important program.
We’ll also continue advocating to our State and Federal Governments for more support. Like many Councils, we’re facing challenges with growing asset backlogs, rising material costs and limited funding, which makes it harder to keep up with essential road repairs.
I encourage you to stay informed about roadworks in your place by visiting pscouncil. info/roads-maintenance.
This webpage provides upto-date information about road works across Port Stephens. For details on major road projects, visit pscouncil.info/ projects-and-works
We’re committed to investing in safer, more reliable roads that build a more connected Port Stephens – one that better supports our residents, businesses, and visitors.
We’ll continue working together to create an improved road network for everyone.
Area
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch
READING by Lynne Miles: Galatians 5: 22 & 23
GENTLE - "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Against such things there is no law."
Letter to the Editor:
Living in community
DEAR News Of The Area,
ON Thursday 6 March, I was privileged to attend a remarkable and inspiring meeting in the Great Hall of the University of Newcastle.
The Great Hall was full and the atmosphere electric but respectful.
This was the second Annual Meeting of Hunter Community Alliance.
We live in community – and this means caring for each other in whatever way we can, sharing resources, being aware, compassionate and understanding of each other and each other’s needs, particularly of people who can and do ‘fall through the cracks’.
This organisation is proof that we can bring together people of all ages, across political and social divides: charities who pick up the pieces of broken lives and working hard to prevent people ‘falling into the cracks’, churches also doing this, unions, environmentalists concerned about the impacts of climate change, politicians at all three levels of government, listening and talking to each other with respect, with the common aim of making the Hunter a better place for everyone.
The effects spill over into
surrounding areas.
While acknowledging that their efforts have to continue as more needs to be done, in one short year they have achieved much: increased training and apprenticeships to provide employment, particularly as we necessarily transition from jobs in the fossil fuel industry into the many opportunities provided by renewable energy sources; more government assistance building affordable housing; more crisis and transitional accommodation.
As with the first meeting last year, the two Federal Ministers who attended had been provided with a series of “Asks”, based on the meetings of HCA which had been held during the year, and they were very firmly but politely held to answer these.
We heard stories from people whose lives have been turned around by help they’ve received. But also stories from people whose needs are still very great.
A warning to us here: an older woman who now finds herself living in a small rental cabin after being scammed and losing her home.
Now living in a small rental cabin which gets very hot in summer and
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
There was so much stress in the build-up to Cyclone Alfred. How did the experts get it so wrong?
Marcia P.
Dear Marcia,
Now the meteorologists will give you all sorts of reasons for Alfred's change of heart, like the tropical cyclone looping back on itself which changed its expected trajectory, and the lighter winds caused by its intersection with a high pressure ridge, but in my unprofessional opinion, it came down to the name.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred?
There is nothing menacing or destructive about an Alfred.
Just look at the history books.
Alfred Nobel donated his wealth to establish the Nobel Prize.
Alfred Tennyson was a poet laureate.
very cold in winter.
Stories of sub-standard emergency housing, crowded, poorly ventilated.
Renters who cannot afford solar panels, whose energy bills soar.
People who have a choice of living on the streets – perhaps in a very old car – or paying well over half of the income they earn in rent.
The need for more mental health providers.
These are our neighbours, part of our wider community.
Perhaps at times our society needs people with hard business heads,
Who is actually playing politics?
DEAR News Of The Area,
I QUESTION Ian Roberts (11 March, ‘The lowest blow yet’) on who is actually playing politics in relation to offshore wind.
While the Coalition, in its final act of government in 2022, supported the development of Australia’s offshore wind industry by introducing enabling legislation, Dutton now seeks to play politics from opposition.
With 14 feasibility licenses issued for
offshore wind projects, he selectively opposes those in key regions - Hunter, Illawarra, and the Southern Oceantargeting them to win votes in marginal seats.
Dutton’s inconsistency is not new. While in government, he is on the record opposing nuclear power for Australia.
Now, in a dramatic reversal, he enters the election with an ill-defined and unsubstantiated nuclear energy policy.
Tree vandalism solutions
DEAR News Of The Area,
IN regards to the vandalised trees on the Bridle Path, one way to prevent the damage that has been done by some locals who wanted a view, would be to erect one or several banners at the emplacement of the damaged trees with
a message saying: “These trees have been vandalised”.
I am aware the council already does this but with a rather small signage.
What I am suggesting is rather much bigger banners that could be attached to the surrounding trees.
These banners don't have to be
Alfred North Whitehead was a mathematician and philosopher.
The etymology doesn't help.
Alfred means Elf Ruler. Elf Ruler?
Does that sound like a formidable being to you?
Alfred may have had dreams of being a tropical cyclone, but instead he did more meandering and backtracking and looping back than a politician.
And for that we should be grateful.
Many people and businesses still suffered due to flooding, power outages, erosion, and closures.
Incidentally, did you know that the tropical cyclone was supposed to be called Anthony, but the Bureau of Meteorology made a change to avoid confusion as it matched our current Prime Minister?
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
thinking of company profits above everything else, however everyone benefits when we help each other, including businesses, and Hunter Community Alliance is a wonderful example. We have a Federal Election coming.
Now is the time to ask serious questions of each of the candidates, look at who is going to help the disadvantaged and struggling members of our wider community, and hold them to their promises.
Regards, Barbara LYLE, Tea Gardens.
This comes at a critical time, as all coal-fired power stations in Australia are set to close within the next decade.
Offshore wind energy is on track to be operational by 2030, providing a timely replacement for coal-fired power, sustaining jobs, and delivering economic benefits to affected regions.
Dutton’s nuclear policy,
expensive, and the text could be written manually, it does not need to be a super professional job.
It would ruin the view of the people who are behind the vandalisation of these trees.
The council could also create a fund to pay for the banners, and I certainly
lacking both detail and a realistic timeline, will not replace this lost capacity in time, let alone ever eventuate. The public and investors need certainty and a clear path forward for energy policy, not political flipflopping and vague promises.
Regards, Justin PAGE, Coordinator, Hunter Jobs Alliance
would contribute if it was the case.
I already made such a suggestion to our Mayor but have not received a reply yet.
Regards, Yves MONNET, Nelson Bay
Stinker’s History: Young Bunger the lobster hunter
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
THE son of mining engineer
“Snapper” Williams from West Wallsend, James “Bunger” Williams arrived in Nelson Bay in 1920.
Not keen to follow in his father’s footsteps and enter the coal mines, Bunger reckoned that it was to be a fisherman’s life for him.
James’s son Herb Williams, known as “Young Bunger”, did follow his father’s lead and linked up with Greek lobsterman Spiro Spathos and his boat “Mahoulas”.
Herb bought the 32 foot “Pandora”, built in 1906 of NZ kauri, which carried a sail as a back up for a Hercules Diesel later to be replaced by a German air-cooled Duetz.
The Pandora worked the waters north of the entrance to Port Stephens up around Broughton Island.
The reefs from Broughton towards Seal Rocks were alive with lobsters and snapper and it was north of the island that Spero and Young Bunger
found the most famous of all lobster grounds - “The Well”.
Modern depth sounders will return an accurate picture of the shape of the bottom, the depth and temperature of the water and, in most cases, the presence of fish.
When an ideal fishing or lobstering ground is found, a GPS will lock in the coordinates so that the exact spot can be relocated with ease.
In Young Bunger’s days on the water it was a case of “sounding” with a long length of rope with a lead weight tied to the end.
For hour after hour, day after day the lead would be “bounced” off the ocean’s bottom.
The feel of the rope would determine whether the floor was sand, gravel, rocky reef or mud.
In some cases plasticene was set into the end of the lead weight so that a sample of the bottom could be collected. Once a reef was located a quick mental snap shot would be taken by lining up permanent fixtures on the mainland. Two or three landmarks, usually mountains and headlands,
would be recorded in the mind so that the fishermen could return to the exact spot to set and pull their traps.
It was by this method of sounding that Spero drifted over and finally pinpointed The Well, a steep drop into deeper water that was literally full of lobsters.
The very first trap that was baited and sent to the oceans floor was brought to the surface jam packed full of lobsters - 36 dozen to be more precise.
There was not enough room for one more lobster to enter the trap.
The reef was so rich that
lobsters would be hanging onto the rope and crawling on the outside of the traps, dropping off as the traps were hauled on board.
As mentioned Herb worked the trawler Pandora for prawns off the Stockton Bight.
Stinker’s Fishin’: Champion jetties
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
WE are fortunate in Port Stephens to have excellent jetties from Shoal Bay to Karuah, all of which give you a great chance to catch a cracker fish - bream, mulloway, snapper, kingfish, flathead or tuna.
Fishing off a jetty is a little like fishing out of a boat in that you are not land-based
and they provide a fantastic fishing platform, ideal for the family to gather and experience the joys of fishing.
Recent reports suggest that big fish have been gathering around the jetties in Shoal Bay and Little Beach.
Earlier in the week 13-year-old champ Darcy Lestone landed a thumping 8.5 kg snapper off the Shoal Bay jetty. Arriving early, Darcy caught a couple of land
mullet which he used later in the evening for bait to catch the giant snapper.
Unable to lift the fish up onto the jetty the young fisherman kept his cool and “walked” the fish onto the beach.
Snapper have been caught off Little Beach jetty for as long as records have been kept.
In earlier days the goto jetty was the old wooden structure in Nelson Bay which was the focus for the commercial fishermen to return with their catches of fish and lobsters. Each season Salamander jetty produces great catches of tuna while Karuah jetty holds a healthy population of bream.
q Cracker snapper landed by 13-year-old Darcy Lestone off Little Beach jetty
When Herb retired from the sea he gave the Pandora away. Sadly the 90 year old boat was neglected by the new owner and sunk at its moorings in 1996.
q James ‘Bunger’ Williams arrived in Nelson Bay in 1920 and began fishing.
q ‘Young Bunger’ Herb Williams fished on the ‘Pandora’ and learnt to catch lobsters from Greek fisherman Spiro Spathos.
q The old Nelson Bay jetty was a popular fishing spot for snapper.
OUTLETS
Where you can pick up your paper
If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us. media@newsofthearea.com.au
Anna Bay Tavern
Anna Bay Bakery
BYO Cellars Anna Bay
Ingenia Holiday Park
Middle Rock Retirement Village
Anna Bay Village
Seawinds Village
Nelson Bay Bowling Club
Nelson Bay Golf Club
Woolworths Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay Newsagent
Nelson Bay Real Estate
Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay
Seabreeze Hotel
Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre
Tackleword Port Stephens
Essence Cafe
Dolphin Watch Cafe
West Diggers
Harbourside Haven
Bernie Thompson Village
Shoal Bay Pharmacy
IGA Shoal Bay
John Patterson
Bill King Aged Care
Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay
Kreative Space Studio Fingal Bay
Regis Aged Care
Corlette Store
Uniting Care
Homestead Village
Sandy Shores
Big4 Soldiers Point
Soldiers Point Bowling Club
Foodworks Salamander Bay
Wanda Beach Pharmacy
Mobil Salamander Bay
Caltex Salamander Bay
Coles Salamander Bay
Natural Tucker
Woolworths Salamander Bay
Horizons Golf Club
Sunrise Lifestyle Resort
Seaham General Store
Opal Aged Care
Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace
Angeez Takeaway Raymond Terrace
Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace
Terrace Central Plaza Post Office
Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza
Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza
MarketPlace Woolworths
Raymond Terrace Shell
Raymond Terrace Library
Lakeside Newsagent
R&R Property
Foodworks Lakeside
Lakeside Leisure Centre
Muree Golf Club
Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash
Tanilba Bay Nursing Home
Tanilba Bay Retirement Units
Coles Tanilba Bay
Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay
Tanilba Newsagent
Post Office Tanilba Bay
Blue Marine Services
Chemist Lemon Tree
Club Lemon Tree
Tilligerry RSL
Tilligerry Real Estate
Coles Medowie
7-Eleven Medowie
Medowie Newsagent
Medowie Pharmacy
Woolworths Medowie
Medowie Social
Medowie Football Club
BP Servo Medowie
Pacific Dunes Golf Club
Metro Servo (Airport Side)
Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)
Bushfire prevention program takes to the skies
TRANSGRID has launched its annual bushfire prevention program, including helicopter inspections and 3D laser scanning, to ensure the safe operation of the transmission network in the lead-up to next summer.
LiDAR inspections by plane are underway across parts of the network and will wrap up in March, with helicopter inspections to follow in coming months.
“Our priority is to protect the safety of landowners, communities and our people and we take the risk of bushfires very seriously and do everything we can to reduce potential risks,” Executive General Manager of Network Marie Jordan said.
“Our transmission lines have been safely operating for decades, and we are committed to ensuring they continue to do so for many years to come as they are a critical piece of the clean energy transition.
“Transgrid’s network includes more than 13,000km of transmission lines – the equivalent of travelling from Sydney to Perth four times –and we inspect it every year to ensure a high level of preparedness ahead of the summer bushfire season.
“Every year our team plans this program carefully so we can ensure it is as effective as possible to reduce bushfire risk and
potential impacts to local communities.”
The program includes a 3D laser aerial survey of easements across the entire Transgrid network using LiDAR technology to identify vegetation growing
too close to transmission lines; helicopter inspections to physically assess the condition of structures and lines; and on-the-ground teams carrying out network maintenance and addressing potential vegetation
encroachments to reduce bushfire risks.
Helicopter inspections are scheduled for Newcastle and the Hunter from 12-17 June.
Crackdown on fire ants
THE state’s peak farming group has welcomed a fresh crackdown on biosecurity controls in the wake of ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred.
On Friday NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty announced measures to keep Red Imported Fire Ants out, with a temporary ban on soil and hay coming into the state from infested areas in southeast Queensland.
“We’ve all seen the images of wind and rain in Queensland, and this is making the fire ants mobile over the coming weeks,” Minister Moriarty said.
“The temporary suspension of the hay permit is a necessary step to mitigate the movement of these highly invasive pests.
“The impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred are being felt in our agricultural sector in the north of the state.
“They need our support to get them back on their feet and don’t want a fire ant incursion adding stress and strain to their recovery.
“We have increased surveillance focusing on high-risk areas and are employing advanced tracking and modelling techniques, taking strong preventative measures to stop fire ants."
NSW Farmers Biosecurity Committee Chair Tony Hegarty said recent footage of fire ant ‘rafts’ in Queensland’s Scenic Rim region had sparked serious concerns around the spread of the ants in the wake of recent flood events.
“We’re seeing thousands of these deadly ants cling together and create massive rafts in Queensland floodwater,” Mr Hegarty said.
“While these rafts haven’t been spotted in NSW as yet, floodwater does spread these ants about, and we can’t be careful enough when it comes to protecting our communities against
these pests.”
NSW Chief Invasive Species Officer Scott Charlton said while the mentioned footage is concerning, “we know from hydrological analysis that ants floating into NSW is not possible”.
“What we can do is mitigate the increased risks of human-assisted movement of fire ants from the infested areas of Queensland and suspend the hay permit,” Mr Charlton said.
If allowed to spread
throughout Australia, it is estimated fire ants would cost the economy a total of $60 billion dollars in damages, with the ants known to attack livestock, people and pests.
Fire ants are found in southeast Queensland and are known to gather together as large rafts in floodwater as a survival mechanism.
As communities recovered from recent flood events, Mr Hegarty said the measures to stop the ants had come as welcome news
to farmers on the front line of the threat.
“NSW deserves a biosecurity system that is proactive and effective when it comes to eradicating extreme biosecurity threats – and that includes fire ants,” Mr Hegarty said.
“A serious biosecurity regime is what we need the NSW Government to deliver, and we thank them for hearing us in this most critical hour.”
q A helicopter on a bushfire prevention patrol.
Full steam ahead for Probus Club
THE Probus Club of Port Stephens has conducted its AGM and Changeover Luncheon, welcoming new blood into leadership roles.
Outgoing President Rob Buchanan will hand the reins to the incoming Cheryl Rebrik.
Cheryl is only the second female President in the club’s
history, having welcomed women as members since 2011.
Ann Gibson, now the club’s publicity officer, was the first female president.
“President Cheryl addressed the 115 members and prospective members present,” said Ann.
“She then introduced the
incoming committee and the all-important Activity Leaders and various other positions that are necessary to collectively carry this busy club forward.”
Bev Sinclair joins the leadership group as Secretary, with an Assistant Secretary position likely to be created.
Tirrel Graham will serve
as Treasurer, while Marilynn Buchanan has stepped down after a six year stint as Membership Director.
Brenda Davie will fill this role.
Annette Howitt continues in the role of Mutual Interest Groups (MIG) Director.
The other Committee positions were filled by Christine Graham and Phil
Dodd.
“It should be mentioned that Tirrel and Christine Graham have been running the BBQs for the last seven years or so, [which has now been] handed over to Alan Ritchie and Maureen Hands,”
Ann said.
The Probus Club of Port Stephens is a social, mixedgender organisation for
q The 2025 committee.
retired and semi-retired people and meets on the second Thursday of the month at the Nelson Bay Bowling Club from 10.30am.
A guest speaker features at nearly every meeting.
“Visitors are welcome to come along and check out this friendly club,” Ann said.
Farewell dinner for community champions
By Simon EKINS
AFTER 26 years living on the Tomaree Peninsula, active and community-minded couple
Nikki and Nigel Waters have returned to their original homeland of England.
On 21 February, the Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association (TRRA) co-ordinated a very well-attended thank you dinner for the couple, which was held at the Nelson Bay Golf Club.
Nine organisations were represented, along with Mayor Leah Anderson and several current and past Port Stephens councillors.
Nine speakers recounted Nigel and Nikki’s contributions as Tomaree residents.
Nikki was a dedicated member of the Port Stephens Community Art Centre (PSCAC) and taught at U3A.
The current president of PSCAC, Meryl Miller, said Nikki had played a crucial role in establishing the structure required to run a successful art centre.
“Nikki, your legacy within the PSCAC is undeniable and your generosity, leadership and compassion for the arts have touched many lives,” she said.
Nikki’s technological guidance is well-remembered by members of the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol of Port Stephens as she ran a series of sessions and provided course material for beginners with computers.
Her intervention prevented a number of non computer-literate members from leaving the service.
Nigel was also extremely
busy and wore many caps.
Margaret Wilkinson of Nelson Bay Civic Pride referred to Nigel being “the Saviour of Trees”, particularly in the Nelson Bay Town Centre.
Also, as a member of Marine Rescue, Nigel clocked up 6000 hours in the communication centre and qualified as a skipper.
For his role in the rescue of four vessels on 6 and 7 January 2016, he was awarded the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage.
Both Roger Yeo of Nelson Bay West Landcare and Iain Watt of EcoNetwork spoke of Nigel’s leadership and planning ability and his capacity to encourage unity.
Mayor Leah Anderson said councillors appreciated Nigel’s ability to identify priority issues and to summarise relevant items in agenda papers for Council
meetings.
She acknowledged that his submissions helped facilitate councillors’ meeting preparation.
Former State Member Bob Martin spoke on behalf of Port Stephens MP and Families and Community Minister, Kate Washington.
“Nigel has worked hard on multiple issues that matter,” Ms Washington wrote.
“He’s helped us shape a more progressive, accountable and transparent local political landscape, and a community that cares deeply for the environment in which we live."
The final speaker was TRRA past president and current committee member, Geoff Washington.
Geoff drew the guests’ attention to a citation on the inaugural Australia Day Environmental Award, given to Nigel.
“Nigel is a community champion of Port Stephens who has given his time to numerous volunteer groups.
“[He] is passionate about making Port Stephens a great place."
that
need
show more empathy toward councillors and planners, and consideration of their roles.
Butchers, bakers and makers better off in the bush
By Stephanie GARDINER, AAP
BUTCHERS, bakers and smallgoods makers are better off living in the country, with
research showing workers across nearly 100 occupations can get more bang for their buck in the bush. City-based teachers, mechanics, general
practitioners, chief executives, chefs, house cleaners and child care workers may also want to consider a move to the country for better pay.
There are 85 occupations
where net incomes are higher in country Australia compared to the capitals, according to an analysis by the Regional Australia Institute released earlier this month.
There was an income premium of 26 percent in remote areas with industries like agriculture and mining, particularly among truck drivers, machinery operators, tradies and technicians.
The findings of the Beyond City Limits report were significant not just for regional economies, but the national workforce, the institute's chief executive Liz Ritchie said.
"This report busts the long-held myth that you have to live in a major city to earn a high income," Ms Ritchie said.
The research used census and tax data to look at incomes across occupations, before factoring in age, gender, education and housing costs.
Managers and sales workers' net incomes were lower in both inner regional and remote areas, while professionals and admin staff only experienced income premiums in remote or very remote areas.
Wages were slightly lower overall in inner regional areas, such as Albury, Dubbo, Bathurst and Wagga Wagga in NSW, the Latrobe region in Victoria and Toowoomba in Queensland.
Ms Ritchie said Australians needed to know about the career opportunities in regional areas, where there
were 67,000 job vacancies in January.
"There are plenty of good jobs, where you can earn a very good income," she said.
"Combine that with the regions' livability factors, like less traffic, more affordable housing and access to nature and you can understand why so many people have already made the move."
The research recommended several policy focus areas, including promotion of regional jobs and social infrastructure investments.
The institute has launched its online interactive Regional Jobs Guide to help workers understand country labour markets.
q Ann Gibson and Cheryl Rebrik are the only two women to have held the role of president with the club.
q Outgoing President Rob Buchanan and the newly appointed Cheryl Rebrik.
In his response, Nigel said
residents across the Port Stephens LGA
to
q Nikki and Nigel Waters.
q When it comes to pay, butchers may be able to do better in the bush, according to a new report. Photo: Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOS.
SPORT
Vincent and Williams help Seagulls clinch title
By Chris KARAS
SALAMANDER Bay cricket
hot shots Ed Williams and Lucas Vincent have helped the Stockton and Northern Districts club secure the Newcastle District first-grade minor premiership title.
The former Nelson Bay juniors played key roles as the Seagulls topped the Rippit first-grade premiership standings on 66 points after the regular season, with 10 wins and two losses, to set up a semi-final showdown with fourth-ranked Merewether at the Newcastle No. 1 Sports Ground.
In one of the tightest finishes in recent seasons,
the Seagulls pipped secondranked Wallsend (65 points) for the minor title with Cardiff-Boolaroo wrapping up third spot on 60 points.
Wallsend hosted CardiffBoolaroo in the other semifinal at George Farley Oval.
Both Stockton and Wallsend are the only two clubs to achieve 10 wins this summer, and registered final round victories over Charlestown and Newcastle City respectively to claim the top two spots.
Nineteen-year-old paceman Williams bagged 45 wickets this season at an average of 10.49, including a best haul of 6-39, to make his way into the Newcastle
representative team for the NSW Country Championships.
Vincent, a NSW Combined High Schools representative, is regarded one of the brightest batting prospects in the Hunter region and has compiled 615 runs this summer in all formats.
The 17-year-old Tomaree
q Rising 19-year-old paceman Ed Williams of Salamander Bay helped Stockton and Northern Districts Seagulls claim the Newcastle District Rippit first-grade minor cricket title.
High schoolboy hit a superb 172 for the Newcastle Under 19 Colts team against Southern Districts during the Country Colts carnival back in October, and has cemented a spot in the Seagulls’ middle order in his second season in the top grade.
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a Stableford competition played at Horizons Resort on Monday 10th March with 31 players.
Nett Winner : Michael Tagg, 38pts.
Nett Runner Up : Tony Care, 37pts.
Bonus Point Winner : Phil Rogan, 38pts.
Bonus Point Runner Up : Phil Sherwood, 37pts.
Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole,
Div 1 : Frank van Druten
Div 2 : Lester Lake
Nearest the Pin, 17th Hole,
Div 1 : Wal Hutchinson
Div 2 : Michael Best
Div 2 : Peter Hawkins Drive & Chip, 15th Hole, Div 1 : Phil Rogan (birdie)
Div 2 : Ron Dodd
Eveleigh and Moxey lead grand final charge
By Chris KARAS
IT has been a season to savour for ace Port Stephens Cricket Club all-rounder
Tyran Eveleigh in the 202425 Newcastle District Senior Cricket Division One series.
With nearly 40 wickets under his belt plus valuable contributions with the bat, the Pythons trump card has proved a revelation on the local cricket scene.
His 34 wickets have come at an economical average
of 16.44 and have lifted the Port Stephens club to minor premiership honours with a best haul of 4-10.
The Pythons topped the standings after 20 rounds on 47 points after all final preliminary round fixtures were abandoned due to inclement weather.
Waterboard Wests finished second on 43 points ahead of Maryland Fletcher (42) with CardiffBoolaroo clinching fourth spot on 41 points – nudging out Merewether (41) on percentages.
Trump card Tyran led the
way for the minor premiers, grabbing crucial wickets in key moments to help the Pythons chalk up 10 victories for the season.
He has also formed a potent combination with opening partner Leigh Williams at the top of the batting order, who has amassed 451 runs in all formats with a top score of 75.
Legendary all-rounder Jarrod Moxey again holds the key to a Pythons premiership.
His 622 runs at an average of 34.56 have inspired the Pythons during their grand
final charge, along with his 31 wickets at an average of 9.16.
Jarrod’s magnificent 108 against Journeymen Wests at King Park off 101 balls, which featured six sixes and nine boundaries, was an epic knock.
While his 5-7 with the ball against Maryland Fletcher was another season highlight. Port Stephens squared off with Cardiff Boolaroo in their one day semi-final at King Park with Waterboard Wests and Maryland Fletcher liningup in the other semi final at Jesmond Park.
McMaster a trump card for Nelson Bay Gropers
By Chris KARAS
NELSON Bay Rugby Club have unearthed a real find in dashing fullback Brayden McMaster.
A genuine speed merchant with sharp footwork, McMaster shapes as a trump card for the Gropers in their quest for 2025 Hunter Suburban Rugby President’s Cup premiership honours.
The quicksilver back was best on ground in Nelson Bay’s recent 55-10 trial win over Manly Savers at Bill Strong Oval – scoring two of the Gropers’ nine tries and creating havoc with his pace and step out wide.
McMaster is a local Nelson Bay junior rugby product who can also play wing and centre and adds plenty of thrust to a revamped Gropers’ first grade
men's line up this season.
New coach Zion Takarua has added some exciting new blood to the club’s ranks and believes the Gropers have the depth of talent to reclaim the Hunter Suburban championship trophy.
Takarua was pleased with his team’s strong showing against Manly Savers in the club’s first official trial match of the season and has a great leader in tireless number eight Hamish Bartlett.
The hard working Bartlett turned in his customary non-stop display against the Savers and capped an outstanding match by scoring three tries.
Clever half back Jake Langsford is also primed for a big season along with the likes of fly-half Will Clark, goalkicking winger
Ryan Marshall, lock forward Mitch Workman, centre Evander Waitoa, flankers Oliver Edwards and Ronan O’Connell, lock Jordan Byfield, tough prop Nathan McLeay, stalwart hooker Ross Buchan, winger Taj Turner and rookie prop Jake Affleck - who shone against Manly in his first game with the men's seniors team.
Young Affleck was tremendous over the ball with his cleanout and ball security and will push his claims for a regular spot in the Gropers’ forward pack.
Nelson Bay loaned a batch of players to the Manly squad for the recent trial - flanker Jobe Hirschausen, winger Neil O'Keefe, prop Eddie Du Vos, winger Josh Sollitt and hooker Harry Porter - with all five producing strong games against their Gropers’ club mates.
Comedy night to support Nelson Bay junior golfers
By Chris KARAS
entertainer Irish Albert has thrown his support behind Nelson Bay Golf Club’s
promising young golfers. When the popular comedian learned of the
Drive & Chip, 6th Hole, Div 1 : Michael Tagg
Ball Winners : Wal Hutchinson 36pts, Gary Chapman 35pts, Mark Thornber 34pts, Brian Neale 34pts, Peter Hawkins 34pts, John Howlett 34pts, Bob Sellick 33pts, Ian Dean 33pts, and Kel Dorney 32pts. Next weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC with a 7:30am start and it’s a BBQ day, visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.
Tilligerry Social Golf Club
14/3/25
OUTRIGHT winners.
Hugh Potts & Kim Miller c/b. 67 Ball winners. Hugh Potts & Grahame Glover. 67
Ed Martin & Bryan Porter 66
John McDonald & Ron Mc Kay. 63 Bradman Award
Bill McMaster. &.
Dews D&C7th. A. Matt Baldwin. B. Grahame Glover D&C18th. A. Matt Baldwin. B. rahame Glover Money hole. A. John McDonald Lucky number. 1. Blake Dillon There were 11 starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game Friday 21/3/25 2 man Agg. Stableford.
financial demands for local families to send their talented offspring to junior golf tournaments throughout NSW he jumped into action.
Irish Albert has organised a fundraising Dinner and Comedy Night on Saturday 5 April at Nelson Bay Golf Club to help the region’s talented junior golfers realise their sporting dream.
Patrons can enjoy a night of Irish humour, songs and quirky impersonations and all for a great cause.
Entertaining is still in the blood of the accomplished
Irishman who came to the picturesque and aquamarine waters of Shoal Bay to retire.
“When I discovered that the families of these promising junior golfers couldn’t afford to keep sending their children to state and national championships, and other major tournaments, I decided to show my support,” the world-class entertainer told News Of The Area.
‘’Many of these gifted young golfers couldn’t afford even a basic set of clubs.”
Irish Albert has performed at the London
Palladium, on luxury cruise liners and in front of royalty and premiers.
He has appeared on national television and his music is played on the ABC.
The Dinner and Comedy show is full of Irish blarney with songs and patently quirky impersonations of Billy Connolly, TV’s Mrs Brown, King Charles and Donald Trump.
For further details, contact Nelson Bay Golf Club reception 4981 1132.
q Talented Nelson Bay rugby fullback Brayden McMaster bursts through a gap with fly-half Will Clark and winger Ryan Marshall in support.
SHOAL Bay’s renowned
SUDOKU
RESTALL, Merle Clare 13/2/1925 – 12/3/2025
Late of Hawks Nest.
Beloved wife of William (dec).
Loving mother to Raymond (dec), Desmond (dec) and Lyndelle, a loved mother-in-law of Denise, Sharon and Noel.
Much loved grandmother to Ashley, Darryn, Lisa, Luke, Mikaela, Gavin & Chantelle, loving great - grandmother to 19 plus one great-great granddaughter.
Family and close friends celebrated with Merle at her 100th birthday party on 15th February. It was as if she had kept herself going to reach that amazing milestone. Who gets to attend a 100th party, let alone be the “star of the show?” She was loved by all who met her and even those who hadn’t met her, but knew of her. She is now at peace. Such a beautiful soul.
Many thanks to the wonderful staff at Peter Sinclair Gardens who loved and cared for her over the years she was a happy resident, but especially towards the end.
A private cremation will take place on Thursday 20th March 2025.
France Family Funerals www.fff.com.au
Australian Family Owned & Operated Funeral Notices
Wanted to Buy
Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215
For Sale
BABY love car seat up to 4yrs old. Excellent cond $100 ph 0493 777 707 f141124
BAR table, great for pool or outdoor area. Tempered glass top, aluminium frame with white canvas, storage shelf below. $350 ono 0417 216 598
Sale Motors
31 Bonito St, Corlette SAT 8am. Combined sale. Books, records collectables, jigsaws plants & much more.
and Call for Classifieds (02) 4981 8882
CHILDREN’S & baby’s clothes, new, winter & summer, make an offer 0493 777 707
CLOTHES iron $10 0493 777 707
2 seat leather sofa $100. Nelson Bay 0410 492 885 COFFEE table and wall unit, walnut stain $40 each or both for $50. 0423 545 331
x 2
ADJUSTABLE Patient
Bed KS with Air Mattress 6 months old, cost $15k selling $2.5k, ph 0494 069 492 Re010525
FREE clean fill, pool excavation in thornton, must be within 5km radius for delivery. Ph 0476 789 721 F230824
PEGASUS porcelain
EUROMAID 2 plate cooktop bench oven perfect cond. $100 0408 431 488 F200325
MEN’S joggers, new size 10, worth $40 will sell for $5. 0493 777 707
COFFEE Table. Worth $2000. Selling for $100. Excellent cond. 0493 777 707 f211124
FISH fern for ponds or aquariums, from $5 0466 880 639
ANDRE Rieu DVDs x
CUSHIONS, assorted colours, $4 each. 4982 8787
GENUINE leather boots made in Canada Excellent cond. Non-slip soles. $60. 4982 8787 f211124
GOLF bargain! Clubs bag and buggy, quick sale, $100. 0405203113 F200325
HAIRDYE, ash blonde $5 each. 0493 777 707
ANTIQUE Rocking cradle. Wooden attractive, and safe to use. Mattress included 90x70x66cm. $95 Ph: 4938 5923
SPEEDY mag wheels & tyres, near new, suit Holden or Ford, $600 ono Hawks Nest. 0439 429 041 e100425
THROW rug, homemade, woollen crochet $30. 4982 8787
VICKERS 33ft houseboat, 1985, sleeps 6, 2 x 25HP 2017 Mercury 4 stroke o/b, serviced & antifouled Feb 2025 loads of extras, WIWO moored at Tea Gardens AEL572N. $85,000 ono 0419 691 906
ELEGANT wrought iron table with glass top and 5 chairs Please call for photos pickup Thornton $100. 0412783707 Free
MOBILITY Scooters A range of pre-loved, all in very good condition From $500-$1600. Can deliver! 0418 430 643 FAN 12v oscillating for caravan with clamp cig lighter socket, $15
MICROWAVE, 52 x 30cm, VGC, $35 49191121
THROW rugs, assorted colours, $8 each. 4982 8787
3521
MOBILITY Scooter CTM HS1500 preloved GC, brand new batteries fitted easy to transport $750. 0249198178.
MOSAIC stepping stones for garden 22.5cm2 $22 ea or 3 for $60. 0417 292
MUSIC CD’s, 50s to 90s hard to finds & rarities Large quantity. $100 4966 5000
NEW 31 dinner plates & 11 bowls. Buy all together or separate. $40. 0493 777 707
QUEEN quit cover new $15 0493 777 707 HAIR curling wand $5 0493 777 707
ROOF racks, service repair manual, new oil filter to suit a Ford Territory. $70. Ph 0400 949 483
MENS size S: 2 LS shirts (H-M): (Eddie Wood). 1 H-M Trousers Suitable for end of year Functions as new. $30 0412 783 707 F211124 78
HEATERS, electric, from $10, free local delivery 49829225 F180724
INTELLIGENT Robotic Cleaner, new $260. Ph 4982 9942 Re120625
LAMP shades x2 new $15 for both 0493 777 707
LA-Z-BOY 2 seater lounge, beige colour leather upholstery, ex cond. $750. 0439 789 052
MENS bicycle, Trek Alfa 3700, GC geared, make an offer. 49970611 F200325
SLIM single mattress and base. 760 x 1900mm. $50. 4997 2017
TWO Black Wolf folding Compact Camping Chairs, high back for comfort, as new cond Located in HN. $60 each or two for $99. 0493 078 190
TWO outdoor chairs near new. $20 for both 0493 777 707
VEHICLE dent repair outfit with body filler $50 (never used) 0402 087 401
WOK, new with glass lid, $20. 0493 777 707
WORK boots, new, size 10, Blacksmith. $10 0493 777 707 F180724
WOMENS winter clothing size 10-12 quality, near new, nothing over $20. Ph 49385923 for address
Boats
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
GARDENING
ABC FAMILY, 7.05pm
AUSTRALIA JUNIOR
Propagating a love of plants and nature in the next generation, Australia’s favourite green thumbs get their hands dirty with all manner of family-friendly activities in this spirited spin-off. Tonight, Costa Georgiadis (above, right) tracks down some peace and quiet with junior hosts Romeo Angelkovski and Yeshi Jehru (above, left). The trio take time out in a local reserve, drawing inspiration from the tranquil waters and tall timbers before bringing what they’ve learnt home to create a mindful garden of their own. It’s a perfect wind-down before the kids’ bedtime.
FRIDAY,
March 21
R) 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 3.00 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.05 A Bite To Eat. (R)
SUNDAY
SKIN IN THE GAME
SBS, 8.30pm
Marlee Silva (pictured) is a proud Gamilaroi-Dunghutti woman, sports commentator and NRL tragic. Here, she examines how we can use the power of sport – in particular rugby league – to drive social change. Marlee is the daughter of league great Rod “Rocket” Silva and has grown up living and breathing all things NRL. She looks at how rugby league can transform lives – and how it highlights some ugly truths of modern society, especially when it comes to violence against women. Marlee talks to some of the game’s biggest names – including master coach Phil Gould, superstar Nicho Hynes, NRL Chairman Peter V’landys and NRLW player Lavinia Gould – to work out what the sport can do to be part of the solution.
MONDAY 9-1-1: LONE
This Rob Lowe (pictured) vehicle follows the action-packed lives of emergency service members in Texas. Its fifth and final season is set a year after the dramatic conclusion to series four and sees Carlos (Rafael Silva) and TK (Ronen Rubenstein) approaching their first wedding anniversary as Carlos settles into his new role as a Texas Ranger, while other comings and goings lead to movements at the station. Tonight’s episode, “Trainwrecks”, sees the team race into action when a train derailment causes multiple injuries. Meanwhile, Tommy (Gina Torres) makes a bold move in her relationship with Trevor (D.B. Woodside).
6.00 NBN News.
News. 11.50 Grand Designs. (R) 12.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
Rage. (PG)
ABC FAMILY (22)
8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. (Ml)
8.30 Tony Robinson’s Marvellous Machines. (PG, R) 9.20 Mysteries Of The Ancient Dead. (PG) 10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 A Body That Works. (Mals)
11.45 Sisi. (Masv, R) 1.35 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (MA15+a, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour China 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. 8.30 MOVIE: Notting Hill. (1999, Mls, R) The life of a bookshop owner changes after a Hollywood celebrity enters his shop in Notting Hill while promoting her latest movie. The unlikely duo soon face all manner of obstacles to make their romance work. Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts, Rhys Ifans.
11.05 Suits L.A. (Ma, R)
12.00 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGa, R)
1.05 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 3. Brisbane Broncos v North Queensland Cowboys.
9.55 Golden Point. Post-match NRL wrap-up.
10.45 MOVIE: American Assassin. (2017, MA15+lv, R) A man investigates terrorist attacks. Dylan O’Brien.
12.45 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.
7.30 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals, R) Presented by Sam Pang.
8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mdlsv, R) Celebrity guests include Dakota Johnson, Sterling K Brown, Domhnall Gleeson and Colman Domingo.
10.50 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.15 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6.00
SATURDAY, March 22
6.00 Landline. (R) Hosted by Pip Courtney.
6.30 Back Roads: Bibbulmun Track, WA. (PG, R) Rae Johnston explores WA’s Bibbulmun Track.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Death In Paradise. (Ma) Marlon investigates the murder of his old boss.
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) Vera investigates the apparent suicide of a well-known TV personality who has recently fallen from grace. 10.00 Unforgotten. (Madl, R) A new case begins for Jess and Sunny’s team.
10.50 Boat Story. (MA15+alv, R) Two strangers discover cocaine on a boat. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. (Premiere) 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Speechless. 9.55 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe: The Mont Saint-Michel. (PG)
8.30 Blenheim: The People Behind The Palace. Head shepherd Shaun has to intervene in a difficult birth.
9.25 Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye. (PGa, R) Ray Martin continues to plan his own funeral.
10.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo.
3.30 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R)
4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Our Law. 6.35 Engineering Tomorrow. 7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.25 The Artist’s View. 9.25 Athletics. World Indoor Championships. Day 2. Evening session. 12.35am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A passenger’s suitcase has an unusual lining.
7.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000, Mav, R) A Roman general seeks revenge. Russell Crowe.
10.40 MOVIE: The Pope’s Exorcist. (2023, MA15+hv) The Pope’s chief exorcist investigates a possession. Russell Crowe, Daniel Zovatto.
12.55 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGalv, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PG)
8.30 MOVIE: Muriel’s Wedding. (1994, Mls, R) A woman leaves her small town to find romance. Toni Collette.
10.40 MOVIE: Red Dog: True Blue. (2016, PGals, R)
12.20 Bondi Vet. (PGm, R)
1.10 Pointless. (PG, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple’s house is too small. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) An important class-action lawsuit leads the team to investigate a sorority. Matty brings Alfie with her to work. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Mav, R) 11.30 FBI. (Masv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
6am The Man
Who Brought Down The White House. Continued. (2017, PG) 6.55 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 9.05 The Falcons. (2018, PG, Icelandic) 11.00 Mystic Pizza. (1988, M) 1pm Benjamin. (2018, M) 2.35 Diana. (2013, PG) 4.40 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 6.40 Nights In Rodanthe. (2008, PG) 8.30 Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, M) 10.45 Sleeping Beauty. (2011, MA15+) 12.40am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, March 23
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Darby And Joan. (PGa)
8.15 Unforgotten. (Mals) The team investigates Gerry Cooper.
9.05 Boat Story. (MA15+av) Janet and Samuel try to find a buyer for the drugs.
10.05 MOVIE: Irresistible. (2006, Malsv, R) Susan Sarandon.
11.45 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R)
12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
2.55 Rage Closer. (R)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (PG, R)
3.30 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Tish Tash. 5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly’s Little Kingdom. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.
By Lee RANKIN
6.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Ancient Greece By Train.
8.30 Skin In The Game. (Ma)
9.40 King Tut: Allies And Enemies. (PGa, R)
10.40 Franklin. (MA15+l, R)
12.25 The Burnt Half. (Mal, R)
1.50 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R)
2.20 How To Get Fit Fast. (R)
4.10 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
WorldWatch. 9.30 Jeopardy!
9.05 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 9.55 Video Killed The Radio Star. 10.25 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 10.00 My Greek Odyssey. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
The Falcons. (2018, PG, Icelandic) 7.55 Romeo And Juliet. (2013, PG) 10.05 Argo. (2012, M) 12.30pm Emily. (2022, M) 2.50 The Man Who Brought Down The White House. (2017, PG) 4.45 Bright Star. (2009, PG) 6.55 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 8.30 The Big Short. (2015, M) 10.55 Ordinary Justice. (2020, M, Italian) 12.30am The Daughter. (2021, MA15+, Spanish) 2.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG)
8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. (Return) A profile of the 17-year-old Aussie sprinter Gout Gout, who is on track to become the fastest man alive.
9.40 The Hunters: Mr Cruel. (Mav, R) Notorious cold cases are re-opened.
11.10 Autopsy USA: Dean Martin. (Mal)
12.10 The Bay. (Mal, R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO
6am MOVIE: Barbie And Stacie To The Rescue. (2024) 7.10 Children’s Programs. 1.15pm The Nanny. 2.15 MOVIE: Nanny McPhee And The Big Bang. (2010) 4.20 Young Sheldon. 5.45 MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked. (2011) 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum: Secret Of The Tomb. (2014, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Six Days, Seven Nights. (1998, M) 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 See No Evil: Not A Social Person. (Mav) 11.10 The First 48. (Ma) 12.00 World’s Greatest Transportation Marvels. (R) 1.00 Destination WA.
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 1pm Innovation Nation. 1.05 MOVIE: The Man In The Moon. (1991, PG) 3.05 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 4.05 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Goosebumps. (2015, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Aquaman. (2018, M) 10.20 MOVIE: Fast & Furious 6. (2013, M) 12.50am Gotham. 1.45 Arrow. 2.35 Young Sheldon. 3.00 Beyblade X. 4.00 Bakugan. 4.30 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 4.50 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Nitro Funny Cars.
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 Australian Survivor. (PGl) Presented by Jonathan LaPaglia. 8.30 Matlock. (PGa) Olympia hires an outside party to select jurors rather than using Shae, putting the case at risk. 9.30 FBI. (Mav) After two jurors for a highprofile mafia trial are gunned down, the team jumps into an organised crime investigation until it is discovered that the jurors may not have been the intended targets. 11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.30
Your Sports Results
9GO! (83)
MONDAY, March 24
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (Return)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lisbon With Michael Portillo. (PG)
8.25 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries.
9.20 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Syndrome E. (Malv)
11.50 The Night Manager. (Mals, R)
2.05 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R)
3.10 How To Get Fit Fast. (PGn, R)
4.05 Bamay. (R)
4.40 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG)
8.30 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma) A train derailment causes multiple injuries. 9.30 Suits L.A. (M) 10.30 The Agenda Setters. 11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal) 12.00 We Interrupt This Broadcast. (PGas, R)
1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Ml) 9.00 100% Footy. (M) 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard. (Premiere, MA15+av) 11.30 First On Scene. (Ma) 12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Global Shop. (R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 ACA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News.
Australia. (R) 5.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 8.45 Nights In Rodanthe. (2008, PG) 10.35 Partly Cloudy With Sunny Spells. (2015, M, Italian) 12.25pm Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, M) 2.40 The Movie Show. 3.15 Romeo And Juliet. (2013, PG) 5.30 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 7.30 20,000 Species Of Bees. (2023, M, Spanish) 9.50 Let The River Flow. (2023, M, Norwegian) 12.10am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, March 25
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Guillaume’s Paris. (PGl, R) 11.00 Prisoner. (MA15+av) 12.10 Illegals. (MA15+v, R) 2.15 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R) 3.20 How To Get Fit Fast. (PG, R) 4.15 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 7.40 Malcolm. (1986, PG) 9.15 Hacker. (2019, PG, Danish) 11.00 Ordinary Justice. (2020, M, Italian) 12.35pm The Big Short. (2015, M) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PG) 5.35 Darling Companion. (2012, PG) 7.30 Mermaids. (1990, PG) 9.35 Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, M, French) 11.15 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The Americas: The Atlantic Coast. (Premiere, PG) A look at the natural beauty of the Americas. 8.30 The Hunting Party. (M) A serial killer adopts another’s style of killing. 9.30 The Irrational. (Mav) 10.30 The Agenda Setters. 11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGals) 12.00 MOVIE: Cruel Instruction. (2022, MA15+adsv, R) 2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
9GO! (83)
FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.05 Odd Squad. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.20 Late Programs.
WEDNESDAY, March 26 THURSDAY, March 27
6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (Return, Ml) Ten survivalists take on the wilderness.
9.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+) The SAS receives a visit from two senior generals.
10.50 SBS World News Late.
11.20 Blackwater. (MA15+ans)
12.30 My Brilliant Friend. (Malv, R) Lila continues to hold a grudge. 3.55 Earth’s Natural Wonders. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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10.30 Lion Dancers: The Crane And The Lion. 10.50 Soccer. 1pm WorldWatch. 1.30 The Movie Show. 3.10 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.40 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Fast History Of. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Michael Collins. (1996, MA15+) 10.55 MOVIE: Snowpiercer. (2013, MA15+) 1.15am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Vanity Fair.
Continued. (2004, PG) 8.15 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PG, French) 10.15 Let The River Flow. (2023, M, Norwegian) 12.30pm 20,000 Species Of Bees. (2023, M, Spanish) 2.50 Petite Maman. (2021, PG, French) 4.10 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 5.50 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 7.30 My Salinger Year. (2020, M) 9.25 Girls Will Be Girls. (2024, M, Hindi) 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGal) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 Arj Barker: Comes Clean. (Mls, R)
11.10 Autopsy USA. (Ma)
12.10 Covert Affairs. (Mv, R)
2.30 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Ml)
9.00 Scrublands. (Final, MA15+lv)
10.00 Freddy And The Eighth. (Ml)
11.00 9News Late.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Madv, R)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 My Way. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes.
7.50 Little Lunch. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (PGa)
8.30 Celine Dion: A Star Is Born.
9.35 Virdee. (Premiere)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 Breaking Point. (Masv)
12.00 Blinded. (MA15+a, R)
1.45 Elizabeth. (PGa, R)
3.25 Hugh’s Wild West. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6am WorldWatch.
10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 MOVIE: Meeting The Beatles In India. (2020, PG) 2.10 Planet A. 2.40 Insight. 3.40 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.40 The Fast History Of. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 11.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am RabbitProof Fence. Continued. (2002, PG) 7.10 Darling Companion. (2012, PG) 9.05 Mermaids. (1990, PG) 11.10 Iron Sky. (2012, M) 12.50pm Dating Amber. (2020, M) 2.30 The Movie Show. 3.05 Vanity Fair. (2004, PG) 5.40 Every Day. (2018, PG) 7.30 Stand By Me. (1986, M) 9.10 How To Have Sex. (2023, MA15+) 10.50 Shiva Baby. (2020, M) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (Return, PG)
8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PGa) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
10.00 The Amazing Race. (PG) 11.30 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Malv, R)
12.45 Damnation. (MA15+asv)
2.00 To Be Advised.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Lewis. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30
Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
Rugby League. NRL. Round 4. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Penrith Panthers.
Thursday Night Knock Off.
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Hurdler Anna Taylor-Anderson to spearhead Port Stephens contingent at state titles
FROM Page 24
track and field.
Fourteen-year-old hurdles champion Anna showed her versatility in the
Girls Under 15 division with encouraging displays in her pet 90m hurdles event plus the 100m sprint, triple jump and high jump. Mia is another rising
14-year-old hurdler and sprinter who qualified in the Girls Under 15s hurdles over 300 metres.
Promising 13-year-old Elara demonstrated her
ability in both the 200m hurdles and 200m sprint in the Girls Under 14s category with 15-year-old Naomi showing her prowess in the Girls Under 16s discus throw.
Fourteen-year-old Eva competed in the Girls Under 15s shot put event
while Corlette’s former NSW schoolgirls champion Summah featured in the Under 20s Women's 100m sprint final.
Port Stephens Athletics Club head coach Bob Walkley told News Of The Area that the nine athletes were “rewarded” for their consistent performances and strong work ethics.
“They have so much ability and deserved their opportunity to compete at the State titles through sheer hard work.”
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
Top prospects
MEET LAURENCE, ANNA BAY LOCAL
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens’ elite young athletes will mix it with the best at State Track and Field Athletics Championship carnivals over the next fortnight.
An outstanding crop of juniors from both the Port Stephens and Raymond Terrace athletics clubs are primed for action at the Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre, which features the premier talent in the junior class and Little Athletics.
Nine of the Port Stephens club’s top prospects have trained the house down in recent weeks in preparation for the championships –eager to achieve personal best efforts in elite company.
Leading juniors Summah Harrison, Anna Taylor-
Elara Barnes, Mia McDonald,
and Eva
performed strongly at the NSW Junior Track and Field titles last weekend in various events. They are joined by emerging athletes Denver Trojkovic, Evelyn Jurisic and Joy Schneider who line-up in sprint and field events at this weekend’s NSW Little Athletics Championships.
Ten-year-old Denver will compete in the Boys 800 metres category with nine-year-olds Evelyn and Joy qualifying for the girls 400 metres and long jump competitions respectively.
All eyes are on Tomaree High School athletics sensations Anna and Mia who show enormous potential in
CONTINUED Page 23
Laurence Antcliff knows Port Stephens because it’s where his story began. He grew up in Anna Bay, the son of Russell and Therese, and attended St Michael’s Primary School in Nelson Bay. Now, he’s raising his own family in Chisholm and, like so many locals, wants to see real action on the issues that matter—stopping the offshore wind farms, relieving cost of living, and fixing local roads.
With over a decade of leadership at the Housing Industry Association, Laurence has worked with 450 apprentices and 250 small businesses, helping young people get into trades and supporting local construction businesses. He’s spent years tackling red tape, pushing for real solutions to housing affordability, and standing up for hardworking families. Now, he’s bringing that same determination to fight for our community.
Stopping the Port Stephens Offshore Wind Farms
Fixing local infrastructure so families aren’t stuck in traffic and waiting years for projects to start
Making it easier for first-home buyers to get into the market by unlocking superannuation for home deposits
Improving local healthcare, including better hospital services in Port Stephens
Supporting small businesses with less red tape and a better deal from government
Port Stephens has given so much to Laurence and his family, and now he’s working to give back-fighting for the future of our region.
Anderson,
Naomi Reungkitchaya
Hanrahan
q Talented Port Stephens club athletes Naomi Reungkitchaya, Mia McDonald, Anna TaylorAnderson, Eva Hanrahan, Denver Trojkovic, Joy Schneider and Evelyn Jurisic