Port Stephens News Of The Area 20 October 2022

Critically acclaimed author to

Australian

Port

Mark Tedeschi

Wait

is a huge win for local fans of the

crime genre.

Mountain Men

“Author events are always a hit with our community, and we’re thrilled to be able to welcome Mark Tedeschi to Port Stephens to share his latest book with local audiences,” said Ms Abbott.

“During his visit in November, our community will have the chance to ask questions, hear a reading and learn more about the author’s most recent work,” she added.

Mark Tedeschi is an

Council to advocate for increased health facilities in Port Stephens

By Tara CAMPBELL

COUNCILLOR Leah Anderson

At the

commence discussions with the State Government and private operators to advocate for increased facilities and determine any land use changes required for development of these facilities.

Additionally, the motion asks the General Manager to provide a report investigating other Councils who have established health precincts to identify opportunities that can be applied to the Port Stephens LGA,

David Smith Gavin Smith

q Mark Tedeschi is coming to Port Stephens.

Photo: Brayden Smith.

Council to advocate for increased health facilities in Port Stephens

FROM Page 1

including opportunities to increase the number of these facilities.

Cr Anderson requests that an investigation is undertaken for opportunities to develop health precincts in strategic centres and the option of establishing a Local Health Advisory Committee.

“Port Stephens is served only by one hospital and 23 general practices in Primary Health network and the Population Health Snapshot 2021 notes that for every full time General practitioner in the Port Stephens LGA, there is an average of 827 patients,” Cr

Anderson said.

“There is an undeniable shortage of health facilities and medical practitioners in Port Stephens, and we need all levels of Government - local, State and Federal - working together to find solutions.”

Cr Anderson said Port

Stephens Council taking a stand on this is vitally important.

“Our community needs and deserves better healthcare, and the Council needs to play our part in finding a solution,” she said. The motion was unanimously supported.

Councillors support Netball Centre of Excellence

By Tara CAMPBELL

HUNTER Netball is looking to deliver a Netball Centre of Excellence in the Hunter and West Ward Councillors are pushing for support for a Raymond Terrace location.

At the recent Council meeting on 11 October, Councillor Giacomo Arnott raised a notice of motion noting the “incredible opportunity to partner with Hunter Netball to deliver significant tourist revenue and encourage sporting opportunities for young people in Port Stephens”.

Reclassification of surplus land

By Tara CAMPBELL

FOLLOWING the engagement with Councillors regarding Council’s financial sustainability, a review of surplus lands was undertaken.

Zoe Pattison, Acting Group Manager Corporation Services, said surplus lands and underutilised assets can be a maintenance liability for Council.

“Development and or sale of surplus sites can reduce the maintenance liability to Council as well as add to housing stock or employment generating lands in the local government area while providing additional non-rate revenue to enhance Council’s long term financial sustainability,” Ms Pattison said.

The sites which have been authorised for reclassification and rezoning following the

recent Council meeting include:

• Lot 721 DP 1033896, 101

Kindlebark Drive, Medowie

• Lot 35 and 38 DP 259487, 87A Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace and 87B Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace (rezoning only)

• Lot 1063 DP 826758, 20 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace

• Lot 3082 DP 786401, 124 Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace

• Lot 68 DP 248229, 4 Payton Street, Raymond Terrace

• Lot 4 DP 787398, 27

Campbell Avenue, Anna Bay

• Lot 18 DP 238628, A-1

Mount Hall Road, Raymond Terrace

• Lot 4 DP 807214, 1B Jessica Close, Raymond Terrace

• Lot 7 DP 716614, 13 Lyndel Close, Soldiers Point

The motion called for the Council to write to Hunter Netball with a letter of support for the NSW Government budget business case process being undertaken to try and secure funding for the Centre of Excellence.

“I think the opportunities that the Centre of Excellence would bring to our region for tourism and for the

advancement of the sport of netball locally are enormous,” Councillor Arnott said.

West Ward is already home to many prestigious events including the Nations of Origin and Rugby League grand finals.

“What better way for us to establish ourselves as the sporting capital of Port Stephens and potentially the Hunter than to have a facility like the Hunter Netball Centre

of Excellence,” Cr Arnott said.

The motion was unanimously supported, with Councillor Kafer proudly pushing for a West Ward location.

“We already hold, and have held in previous years, state and even national events here in Port Stephens.

“People from a lot of different sports in this country already know about how well we here in Port Stephens can hold these events and it would be fantastic to see this facility here,” Cr Kafer said.

• Lot 17 DP805074, 154 Rocky Point Road, Fingal Bay Councillor Giacomo Arnott supported the reclassification or rezoning of these parcels of land.

“I decided early on that I wouldn’t support any land sale that would cause a loss of any valuable or important land and green space that our community uses, finds or finds important, and I still maintain that position.

“Through the process that we’ve gone through, we’ve come up with land that almost certainly isn’t going to hurt anybody in our community and is generally surplus land that doesn't serve a purpose.

“A lot of this land will be able to be transformed into homes, which will assist with, not very significantly, but every house counts, in easing the supply shortage in Port Stephens,” Cr Arnott said.

Position Vacant:

great at communicating with people verbally and in writing, then you should apply.

• Ability to develop business relationships is very important.

• Drivers licence is required.

• Local knowledge and contacts (Port Stephens & Myall Coast) is desirable.

Application:

Requirements:

• Any target-sales role is highly regarded but not necessarily essential; If you are confident, personable, driven and

Email your interest and application to us. office@newsofthearea.com.au

Applications close on 31 October 2022.

Friday 28th October

Melbourne Cup Night

Sweeps, horse racing and be entertained by Brett Hall from 9.00 to late.

Club opens at 5pm

Come in costume if you want to.

Plus

have a wonderful chef with great meals.

John Hunter Health precinct to transform health service delivery in Hunter

THE new $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is set to deliver first-class health services and thousands of jobs, with the appointment of the main works contractor.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said Multiplex had been appointed the main works contractor for the redevelopment, which will provide Newcastle, Greater Hunter and Northern NSW communities with access to exceptional, cutting-edge health services.

“The NSW Government is investing in a major health redevelopment for the Hunter community, bringing the latest technology and most up-to-date research into the hospital to ensure patients receive the best and most contemporary healthcare,” Mr Hazzard said.

“The precinct will be a centre of excellence and

innovation, attracting the most skilled and experienced clinicians to work in outstanding facilities, and boost health outcomes for local patients.”

The John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is due for completion in 2026 and will include:

• a seven-storey Acute Services Building

• emergency department and more adult and paediatric critical care spaces

• birthing suite and inpatient maternity unit

• neonatal intensive care unit and special care nursery

• rooftop helipad and more than 900 additional car spaces for staff and visitors

• operating theatres, interventional and procedure spaces.

Parliamentary Secretary

for the Hunter Taylor Martin said the new precinct would not only transform healthcare and improve health outcomes across the region, it would be a tremendous boost to local jobs and the economy.

“Beyond the substantial healthcare benefits, the John

Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct will create around 1,500 direct jobs, with the potential to support thousands of indirect jobs over the life of the project, which is a huge win for the local economy,” Mr Martin said.

“During the peak of construction, up to 800 workers are expected to be on site each day and about 70 percent of the work will be supported by local businesses throughout the Hunter.

“Significant progress has already been made on site and the community can now

see the scale of the project and the huge amount of work that has been done to prepare for construction of the new seven-story Acute Services Building in the coming weeks.”

Mr Martin said the redevelopment is part of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program, and a key component of the project is the establishment of a new Multiplex Connectivity Centre to create opportunities for local job seekers during construction.

“The Connectivity Centre will help local job seekers,

particularly those who may be disadvantaged, to secure jobs on the project and equip them with new skills to support a career in construction,” Mr Martin said.

The project will also feature Multiplex’s Jump Start program which will provide a mentoring program for female high school students to support the participation of women in the construction industry.

For more information visit https://www.hneinfra.health. nsw.gov.au/projects/johnhunter-health-innovationprecinct.

Critically acclaimed author to visit Port Stephens

FROM Page 1

Australian barrister, law professor, photographer and author who will be presenting his latest novel ‘Missing, Presumed Dead: The double murder case that shocked Australia’, outlining the shocking details of the disappearances of Dorothy Davis and Kerry Whelan and the trial of Bruce Burrell, accused of murdering them.

Ms Abbott said that the one hour author talk from Tedeschi will provide a rare opportunity to learn more about a very complex case.

“This is the first case

Tedeschi has written about that he was professionally involved in himself, as a criminal prosecutor.

“Most true crime fans don’t get a chance to hear in-depth trial details unless they take the time to stream court proceedings online, or read trial transcripts.

“A book like this, accompanied by a visit from the author himself, is a rare chance to learn more about a case from someone with intimate knowledge of it.

“I encourage all truecrime lovers to get their hands, eyes or ears on these new novels and previous works by contacting any of our libraries, where they are

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

available in various formats, including audio books and e-books,” she said.

Bookings are essential for the free author visit and can be made by contacting your preferred library.

• Raymond Terrace Library 02 4988 0111

• Tomaree Library 02 4988 0670

Author visit times: Mark Tedeschi

Date: Thursday 3 November

Raymond Terrace Library: 10:30am

Tomaree Library: 2:30pm

For more information visit portstephens.nsw.gov. au/services/library

q The John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is due for completion in 2026.

q The new facilities are set to improve health outcomes across the region.

THE latest State of the Beaches report has revealed 94 percent of monitored ocean beaches and 80 percent of all the state’s monitored swimming spots are graded as good or very good.

Four swimming sites were monitored in the Port Stephens local government area.

All locations were monitored by Hunter Water Corporation as a requirement of Environment Protection Licences.

Samples were collected every sixth day throughout the year.

Three of the four ocean beaches were graded as Very

Good in 2021–2022: Zenith Beach, Box Beach and One Mile Beach.

Water quality at these sites has continued to be of a high standard and was suitable for swimming almost all of the time.

Fingal Beach was graded Good in 2021–2022, downgraded from Very Good in the previous year.

Water quality at this site was suitable for swimming most of the time but was occasionally impacted following rain.

The annual report provides an overview of water quality at 214 swimming locations across the State, which are monitored under the NSW Government’s Beachwatch

and Beachwatch Partnership programs.

Ocean beaches get green tick for water quality

Minister for Environment James Griffin said State of the Beaches has five categories of water quality rating: very good, good, fair, poor or very poor.

“Despite the wettest summer in a decade, and Sydney’s wettest year on record, there’s been only a slight decline on last year’s results,” Mr Griffin said.

“In 2021–22, 172 (80 percent) of the 214 swimming sites in NSW were graded as good or very good, indicating they were suitable for swimming most of the time.

“With more than 85 percent of people in NSW living within 50 kilometres of

the coast, heading to a local swimming spot is a way of life for many of us.

“We’ve been running the Beachwatch monitoring program since 1989, and we know how important it is for providing confidence to the people of NSW, which is why we announced in the NSW Budget that we’re expanding the Beachwatch Partnership program with $18.5 million over ten years.”

Rainfall is the major driver of pollution in recreational waters, as it generates storm water runoff and triggers discharges from wastewater treatment systems.

Many estuarine, lake and lagoon swimming sites did not perform as well as ocean

Safety concerns for William Street pedestrian crossing

By Tara CAMPBELL

COUNCILLOR Giacomo

Arnott has raised an urgency motion regarding the ongoing construction of structures at the pedestrian crossing on William Street in Raymond Terrace.

The motion calls for the

General Manager to urgently organise for the installation of speed pods on both sides of the pedestrian crossing, to slow vehicles and force them to spend longer observing the pedestrian crossing for anyone on it or preparing to cross it.

It also requests that the General Manager write to

Transport for NSW to request a speed limit reduction trial for twelve months on William Street, between Sturgeon Street and Port Stephens Street in Raymond Terrace, to 30km/h.

Councillor Arnott stated that there are concerns by not only the community, but also

himself regarding safety, and that even the perception of an unsafe environment should be addressed.

“I think it's clear that there's a concern in the community that this pedestrian crossing is unsafe to begin with and there are some structures that are currently being constructed

beaches as they are more susceptible to wet weather impacts.

State of the Beaches 202122 found:

• 94 percent of the 123 ocean beaches were graded as ‘good’ or ‘very good’

• all five ocean baths were graded as ‘good’ or ‘very good’

• 68 percent of the 69 estuarine swimming sites were graded as ‘good’ or ‘very good’

• 24 percent of the seventeen lake/lagoon swimming sites were graded as ‘good’ or ‘very good’.

The Beachwatch program works by routinely collecting

and installed by Council, along with some landscaping and seating that have heightened these concerns,” Cr Arnott said.

Currently, there is fencing around the structures while the construction is finalised, and many members of the community have raised concerns about sightlines and the safety of pedestrians crossing.

“With the implementation of the temporary speed limit and speed pods, it should slow people down and provide a little bit more time for drivers

water from swimming sites and testing for bacteria as an indicator of contamination.

Beachwatch also issues daily early morning forecasts for the predicted water quality at 160 swim site in Sydney, Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra regions.

The 2021-22 State of the Beaches report can be viewed at: https://www.environment. nsw.gov.au/topics/water/ beaches/reporting-beachwater-quality/state-of-thebeaches

Daily Beachwatch pollution forecasts and weekly star ratings for beaches across NSW can be found at www. environment.nsw.gov.au/ beachwatch and on Twitter and Facebook.

to look at the pedestrian crossing and make sure that there is nobody coming, or nobody on the road already,” Cr Arnott said.

Councillor Arnott said it is great to see the Council trying to activate the CBD, but it needs to be done correctly and with safety at the front of mind.

“I will be keeping an eye on all of these works and all of these efforts to make sure that this area is as safe as it can be,” he said.

Council unanimously supported the motion.

Staying Safe On Holiday Roads

By Andrew VIVIAN

SCHOOL holidays often see tragedy on the roads, and according to author Noel O’Brien, September was heading for a five-year record high.

Mr O’Brien has spent five years researching his book, ’Penalty Rip-Off’, which examines the effectiveness of sanctions to improve driver behaviour.

His book says the focus on punitive approaches is not working to lower the death toll on the nation’s roads and outlines a ‘Safe Driver’ program to change the situation.

Mr O’Brien said the NSW country road toll has continued to increase sharply, with another 50 lives lost since 20 June, and now sitting at 155.

He said this is a 20 percent

increase on last year, while so far this year urban fatalities have remained stable.

“The tragedy about our stubbornly high road toll is that our dated sanctions mix is not working,” Mr O’Brien said.

“There's still no behavioural change programs for repeat speedsters or illegal mobile phone users.

“A better sanctions mix may have prevented the horrific speed related Buxton accident, with five lives lost, and the subsequent accident at Beverly Hills.”

According to Mr O’Brien, September was heading towards becoming the worst month on our roads this year, a five-year record high, with seventy-four lives lost.

With school holidays under way in NSW, WA, ACT and NT, drivers needed to take extra care.

He points out that busier

roads bring added danger, with more families driving to avoid the higher cost and chaos of air travel.

There would also be mixed road conditions on the east coast following devastating flooding earlier in the year and now fresh floods in North West NSW.

Mr O’Brien’s research has found there has been a tenyear high in single vehicle accidents, and believes the increased use of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV) is contributing to this.

He said urban SUV drivers needed to take extra care on unfamiliar low grade country roads, where speed can bring an early end to a welldeserved holiday.

NSW Government figures show the NSW September road toll was 64 percent above last year and road users have twice the chance of dying on a country road.

Mr O’Brien’s book Penalty Rip-Off can be found at http:// penaltyripoff.com.au.

Live

on

terms.

Emergency Services update

By Tara CAMPBELL

Medowie Brigade Training

The Medowie Rural Fire Brigade has been busy completing ‘pre-season’ training.

The Brigade does map reading and plotting,

draughting, dry firefighting and fire over-run scenarios in preparation for the fire season.

Fire Visibility

When it comes to an emergency, time is of the essence.

Emergency services

are quite good at finding addresses but sometimes, especially at night, it can be difficult visibility is low and letterboxes and their numbers can be extremely hard to see.

Local Fire Brigades are asking the community to consider putting it on your

Two new police on the streets

TWO new probationary constables will commence duties in the Port StephensHunter District after they attested at a formal ceremony at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday 14 October 2022.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin welcomed the new police officers to the Hunter.

“I am pleased to be able to welcome our newest police officers who are beginning their career in the Hunter,” Mr Martin said.

“For these probationary constables, Monday

will mark day one of a challenging and rewarding career keeping our communities safe.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said the newest recruits will bolster policing capabilities right across the State.

“As the probationary Class of 355 hit the ground running, they have the full support of our Government behind them,” Mr Toole said.

“They are to be commended for pursuing a career in policing where they will make a

real difference while protecting and serving our communities.

“It is an honour to be in Goulburn today to witness Class 355 take the oath and pledge to keep the people of NSW safe.”

In 2019 the NSW Government announced the delivery of 1,500 additional police positions over four years.

All of these positions have now been allocated and will be filled by the end of the financial year.

Class 355 is made up of 145 recruits, including 94 men and 51 women from various backgrounds and regions across the State and country.

‘Is my House Fire Ready’ to do list to make your house numbers as visible as possible.

The Brigades say that reflectors are great, but even just painting the number on either side of the letter box (instead of just the front) makes finding houses so much easier.

Motor Vehicle Accident

Numerous emergency service units responded to a motor vehicle accident on Emergency Services update the night of Wednesday 12

October at Grahamstown Dam Road.

Due to a pothole, a single vehicle left the road and landed in a ditch, with a casualty trapped in the vehicle.

Crews quickly worked to stabilise the vehicle and manage the casualty.

A front door removal was performed using hydraulic tools, to allow sufficient space.

The driver was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Local Area Reconnaissance

Throughout the week, Port Stephens SES crews were in the field undertaking local area reconnaissance.

As part of this task, crews inspected the condition of the local boat ramps, drove roads in low lying areas to check for water ingress, observed levee banks, monitored river heights, checked bridges, ensured our sandbag points had sufficient sand and bags, and answered many questions from members of the community.

National Carers Week

NATIONAL Carers Week runs from Sunday 16 to Saturday 22 October 2022, with this year the 30th anniversary of the celebration of Australia’s carers.

There are more than 850,000 carers across NSW.

NSW Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise the crucial support that carers provide and to thank them for their contribution to our community.

“This year’s theme

‘Millions of Reasons to Care’ is a testament to the endless hours of support NSW carers provide,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.

“Caring for a loved one takes unimaginable dedication and patience and this is a week to highlight the vital work they do.

“These selfless individuals in our community don’t look for thanks and praise but their incredible efforts need to be celebrated.”

In NSW, carers provide help to people with disability, mental illness, chronic illness, frail age, dementia or drug and alcohol dependency.

Almost 80,000 carers are young people 25 years or younger.

NSW carer Levina provides care and support

for her younger brother.

“My little brother has autism and is non-verbal. I’ve basically been his carer all his life. There are some tough moments but nothing brings me more joy than seeing him live his life to the fullest – happy, healthy and thriving.

“He’s my best friend,” Levina said.

“Carers should know they’re not alone.

“There are so many of us out there who are in the same boat as you. Just remember your wellbeing is as important as the person you care for.”

Support for carers is available through the Carers Gateway. Visit www. carergateway.gov.au or call 1800 422 737.

q A pothole has caused an accident on Grahamstown Dam Road. Photo: Medowie Rural Fire Brigade.

q Medowie Brigade out and about completing training. Photo: Medowie Rural Fire Brigade.

GoodSAM App To Reduce Cardiac Arrest Wait Times

million partnership between NSW Ambulance and the pioneering smartphone app GoodSAM.

By Marian SAMPSON

CARDIAC arrest kills, plain and simple.

According to NSW Health, “Over 8,500 people experience an out of hospital cardiac arrest in NSW every year.

“Only twelve percent will survive.

“For every minute that passes after a person has a cardiac arrest, the chance of survival decreases.”

Now there is a new app and tools to link life saving equipment to people suffering from a cardiac arrest.

People in cardiac arrest will have a greater chance of survival thanks to a $2.5

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the technology alerts trained responders to someone nearby in cardiac arrest, so CPR can be started before paramedics arrive.

“Most out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the home, so if a trained passer-by can provide first aid before an ambulance arrives, it could be lifesaving,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Many of the trained Good Samaritans using GoodSAM around the world, and also here in Australia, range from people with basic CPR skills through to doctors.

“If those responders are sitting in a café and someone goes into cardiac arrest nearby, this app will help

them navigate their way to the scene, ahead of paramedics arriving.”

The four-year partnership between NSW Ambulance and GoodSAM will see the app integrated with ambulance dispatch and a registry set up to map nearby defibrillators.

Port Stephens Council has undergone a program of installation of defibrillators at various Council venues, while many businesses including Anna Bay Tavern have defibrillators on site.

The defibrillators could be in the back of a trained responder’s car or fixed to a wall in a building, so the public registry will allow the community to log a device’s location that could then be accessed by a responder, delivering lifesaving defibrillation earlier.

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone from young children to seniors.

Building the Face Of Rural Tomorrow

NOTICING a distinct lack of networking opportunities for young people in agriculture, a group of emerging industry professionals have launched Face Of Rural Tomorrow (FORT), a platform they believe can improve the experience of coming up through our rural industries.

Launching online at the beginning of August, FORT provides opportunities for those interested in a career in agriculture to connect to likeminded young people and build vital industry connections.

Max Nell, a Rural Associate with Ray White Rural Corporate, co-founded FORT alongside colleagues Sonya Grosso, Sophie Chant and Madeline Swan.

Max, 22, said building connections was essential when progressing a career in

agriculture.

“The aim for FORT is for it to be a networking group for everyone in rural agency, livestock sales and agriculturally based industries.

“It was sort of an avenue that we didn’t see existing for young people across our industries.”

Alongside their online presence, FORT plans to hold several major networking events a year.

“When I was coming through there wasn’t much in the way of networking groups, so we thought it would be beneficial to get young industry professionals together for a few events a year,” Max said.

“Hopefully, when people leave those events, they can walk away with a few more connections in their industry,

and with skills that can help them out in their workplace.”

Details on upcoming events across the country will be released soon, with FORT planning for a debut event coinciding with the Young Livestock Auctioneers competition at the Royal Easter Show.

Each week, FORT profiles a young person excelling in their industry on their Facebook page.

“I think there aren’t enough platforms out there that are highlighting the young people coming up in the industry and the great work they are doing.

“We want to show off the people coming through the ranks in agriculture, and the different avenues available to young people with an eye on a future in the industry,” Max said.

FORT’s co-founders are hopeful the group will attract young people from all sectors of agriculture.

“It is very inclusive, we want all aspects of agriculture to come and be involved and represented,” Max said.

“You never know who you can meet, so we think it is a great opportunity for young people across the industry.”

Growing up on a cattle farm outside Blayney in the NSW Central West, and now undertaking a cadetship with Ray White Rural, Max understands the opportunities and challenges presented to a young person entering the industry.

“There are so many things to learn within agriculture, it is so broad.

“It would be good to get more young people involved in agriculture, as I believe it is

the future.

“People who are interested in agriculture, or are in agriculture and are looking to take on different roles, this is something they

NSW Ambulance attended over 10,000 cardiac arrests in the 2021-22 financial year.

NSW Ambulance Executive Director of Clinical Systems and Senior Assistant Commissioner Clare Beech said many of those cases didn’t get defibrillation or CPR from people close by prior to paramedics arriving.

“When someone is in cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR or defibrillation decreases their chance of survival by ten percent,” Asst. Commissioner Beech said.

“NSW Ambulance always sends the closest available paramedic in an emergency but this app will allow for rapid intervention by the community, which could save your life.”

Registration for responders will begin in a phased approach over the coming months.

can pursue through FORT,” Max said.

To get involved, to learn more or to nominate a young industry professional to be profiled by FORT, head to the FORT - Face Of Rural Tomorrow Facebook page.

a Rechargeable Game Card. Earn points playing the arcade games. Redeem those points in the prize den. Note, each game card is pre-loaded with additional value.

q Anna Bay Tavern's Ian Thomson and Port Stephens Councillor Leah Anderson with the defibrillator which the tavern recently installed to help protect its patrons and the community.

q Max Nell has co-founded Face Of Rural Tomorrow, a networking group for young people working in agricultural industries.

Positive Behaviour for Learning program returns

By Marian SAMPSON

SCHOOL is back and so too are the local Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) awards.

The community joint initiative promotes a consistent system that helps define, teach and support appropriate behaviour which in turn creates a positive environment for student growth.

Since its launch over seven years ago, PBL has been shown to have a positive impact on the lives of participating children as students respond well once they develop an understanding of expectations.

The goal is for the local participating schools, parents, businesses, service providers and government agencies to embrace PBL as a framework to give every child the opportunity to reach their full potential.

There are currently over 3,000 students that are enrolled in schools that use PBL to support their students, staff, families and community wellbeing.

Participating schools have

reported tangible outcomes from PBL including a significant decrease in negative incidences, while attendance and retention has increased.

Children feel cared for and safe as PBL provides a worthwhile and mutually beneficial opportunity for parents, families and the community to be more actively involved.

During the school terms, students and their families gather at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace Food Court on Thursday evenings at 5.30pm to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the young people with weekly PBL Award Winners.

Students receive a gift bag with offers and vouchers from participating retailers as a thank you for their positive behaviour.

Owen Todhinter, PBL Community Coordinator of Grahamstown Public School told News Of The Area, “Grahamstown Public School is a proud member of the Raymond Terrace Community PBL program.

“Our school values are ‘safety,

respect and personal best’.

“We teach school-wide focus lessons every week and actively promote positive behaviour through our ‘Graham’ reward tokens as well as whole school rewards.

“Our most recent PBL reward was a student vs teacher netball game at the end of Term 3.

“Through our PBL processes, we have set up additional supports for students in the school through social games and volunteer roles during break times.

“Our staff, students and parents are huge supporters of PBL and are thrilled each week to reward students who represent our school with humility, pride and respect,” said Owen.

Last week’s award winners

- Lexxi Abra of Irrawang Public School was nominated after she ended up on the wrong bus but was very brave when speaking with the driver to get back to school by using her manners and staying calm.

- Raymond Terrace Public School’s nominee this week is Daniel

Frazer who was nominated for being kind and respectful to all visitors at the school.

- Grahamstown Public School student Stevie Riggs was nominated for being a kind and inclusive student; regularly seeking out other students in the playground who are sad or need a friend to play with and including them in her game.

- Irrawang High School’s Saraya Cockle was nominated for her kindness and compassion to a young student from a partner primary school at Transition Day, demonstrating school PBL values.

- Hunter River High School’s nominee was Nova Larkins who displays excellent work and attitude when helping clean the library. Nova also assisted the participating primary students at the Write a Book in a Day competition.

- Keegan Lane is a new addition to Salt Ash Public School and he is committed to using PBL values everyday. Not only within the classroom

environment but also during playtimes outside.

He consistently models positive behaviour and offers assistance to younger students acting as a buddy.

- Medowie Public School’s Steve Johnson found a parcel that was delivered to his house that didn’t belong to his family. He looked at the delivery address and took the parcel to the rightful owner which resulted in a well deserved PBL nomination.

- Seaham Public School student Grace Thompson was nominated for her continued support of other students at Seaham Public School.

Grace always goes out of her way to ensure others are safe and happy.

- Leiana Manton of Karuah Public School was nominated for being a reliable and friendly teammate, both at training and on game day.

The team at the NOTA congratulate all the PBL nominees.

Ultra-fast NBN services now ready for order

ELIGIBLE residential homes and businesses in parts of Bundabah, Karuah, North Arm Cove and Pindimar can now place an order to upgrade their NBN connection to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

These upgrades will be available on demand where a customer in an eligible premise seeks a higher speed service through their Retail Service Provider.

This will allow residents and businesses to take advantage of the faster

speeds which are increasingly important in a digital society and economy.

To further expand the benefits of fibre connections, the Australian Government has also committed to enabling an additional 1.5 million premises to transition from Fibre to the Node (FTTN) to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) by 2025 – a significant proportion of which will be in regional areas.

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP said,

“The NBN is a key investment in the nation’s future. Since 2009, the network has kept Australians connected, supported tele-health and remote education, and boosted economic productivity by expanding access to new customers for small businesses.

“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring that Australians get the full benefit of the NBN’s potential by enabling as many NBN lines to access full fibre connections as possible.

“Eligible local residents and businesses in Bundabah, Karuah, North Arm Cove and Pindimar will now be able to take advantage of higher speed services as a result of this announcement.

“Expanding fibre access will ensure Australians are at the forefront of digital connectivity and will help bridge the digital divide.”

Senator for New South Wales, Senator Deborah O’Neill said, “This announcement is an opportunity for eligible local

families and businesses to enjoy the benefits of a faster, more reliable fibre connection.

“I welcome NBN Co’s commitment to supporting the families and businesses in Bundabah, Karuah, North Arm Cove and Pindimar, and encourage the community to check the NBN website to see whether they are eligible for an upgrade.”

Under the Australian Government’s plan:

Around 80 percent of all regional and remote

premises will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more by late 2025.

This was estimated at 33per cent in March 2022.

93 percent of all Australian homes and businesses will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more.

Close to 90 per cent of the NBN fixed-line footprint will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 500Mbps to close to gigabit speeds.

For more information on upgrade eligibility, visit www. nbn.com.au/fibreupgrade.

q Last week's nominees at the presentation at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace.

International Day of Rural Women

WOMEN from regional, rural and remote NSW were celebrated on Saturday as part of the International Day of Rural Women.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the day recognises the crucial role women and girls play in rural communities, including in the workforce, as volunteers and within their families and local communities.

“Women keep our rural towns and communities connected and today is

a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge their contributions and thank them for everything they do,” Mr Toole said.

“Our regions are home to some of the most exceptional, talented and innovative women I’ve ever met.

“Women deserve to be celebrated for the way their efforts have built up and galvanised regional and rural towns, helping to make them wonderful places to live.”

The NSW Government has invested $3.7 million

over the next four years for the Rural Women’s Network, providing invaluable support to all women across NSW.

The funding helps deliver a range of highprofile initiatives and events, including supporting the 29th Annual Rural Women’s Gathering, held last week in Glen Innes and Guyra.

Minister for Women Minister for Regional Health and Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the event was a roaring success, highlighting the

Medowie Garden Club hold Spring Sale

MEDOWIE Garden Club is holding a giant Spring Plant Sale on Saturday 22 October 2022 in front of the Bull ‘N Bush Hotel, 37 Ferodale Road Medowie, raising funds for the club and local charities.

There will be hundreds of beautiful plants of all kinds and sizes from small to

quite large at bargain prices, garden related items, and a raffle with great prizes.

Pop in and bag something for your garden!

The club's very knowledgeable members would love to help you with any gardening questions you may have.

Open from 8am to 1pm.

need for rural women to have spaces to connect and learn from each other.

“The Rural Women’s Gathering is such a special event for rural women as it creates an opportunity for them to come together to share information, build relationships and hear insights from women living across the State,” Mrs Taylor said.

“The Gathering is especially important for women who are from geographically isolated

areas, but also for women who are new to the regions, or are starting out their own business or project.

“Events like the Gathering help women to feel like they have a support network and are welcome in their community.”

Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the funding also supports the administration of the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, which recognises the contributions of women who volunteer in

q Medowie Garden Club is holding a Spring Plant Sale on Saturday.

their regional communities.

“The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll does a fantastic job of recognising the women in our lives who go above and beyond for the benefit of their communities,” Mr Saunders said.

“Volunteers are the engine room of our country towns and deserve to be acknowledged for the tireless work they do.”

Nominations are now open and close on Wednesday 30 November at 11:59pm.

Visit: https://www.nsw. gov.au/women-nsw/ruralwomens-network/hiddentreasures/

Salamander

Nelson Bay Shoal Bay

Park

Bay

Bay Salt Ash

Williamtown

Fullertone Cove

Fern Bay

Newcastle

Tomago

Regional Park

Port Stephens

Heatherbrae

Raymond Terrace

Medowie

Ferodale

Twelve Mile Creek

Swan Bay

Myall Coast Messenger

Millers Forest

Balickera

Seaham

East Seaham

Nelsons Plains

Fingal Bay Probus Club Get Togethers

By Marian SAMPSON

FINGAL Bay Probus Club members have a list of local places that are marked as ‘must go again’ and a meal at Mod Thai is definitely on that list.

Julia Redlich told News Of The Area, “It was a lovely surprise to go to Mod Thai once more at their

newly enlarged Shoal Bay restaurant to find it lighter and more spacious.

“What hadn’t changed was the extensive and fabulous menu and, of course, the attentive and friendly staff.

“A delicious lunch was enjoyed by everyone enjoying their usual friendship and lashings of

fun.”

These active retirees are not content with just one or two outings a month however.

As well as heading out to lunch on another day they held their much anticipated meeting of the Wine Appreciation group, with Wendy Cox supplying those necessary nibbles.

While weather continues to impact some outdoor activities, the members of the Probus Club are well versed at fast venue changes to ensure that they all enjoy good times together, all the time.

The Fingal Bay Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the second Monday of each month at the Fingal Bay Sports Club, 100 Rocky Point Road, Fingal Bay.

New members and visitors are welcome to learn

Medowie Probus Club Visits Largs

By Marian SAMPSON

MEMBERS of the Medowie Combined Probus Club have once again enjoyed their regular ‘Munchies’ at Bushrangers Bar & Brasserie

at Largs.

Kevin Tomlinson told News Of The Area, “Excellent food and tremendous company, held in the Probus mantra of ‘Fun, Fellowship and Friendship’.

“The drive out to Largs had some members following their GPS and it was a drive over pot-holed roads through Brandy Hill, Seaham and assorted small townships.

“The day was great and

Nelson Bay Golf Club

107.

Wednesday 12 October

Men’s Stableford: Ind Par 19-9

Thursday 13 October

Veterans Competition:

Stableford:

fortunately the rain held off for the drive, and all were impressed with the menu offerings at The Bushranger,” he said.

Medowie Probus Club arranges a ‘Munchies’ event once a month, on the fortnight alternating to their meeting.

One couple who attended the outing, Lyn and Gerry, celebrated their 65th

Christmas Bush course

A Grade: Steven Brown (10)

40: A Grade: Guy Jennings (14) 39. B Grade: Mike Selmo (17) 38 c/b

B Grade: Geoffrey Wardle (17)

Stableford: Brush Box Course:

Winners: Michael Stockenhuber (21) 33, Peter Bowles (21) 29

Tuesday 11 October

Ladies Stroke Gymea course: A Grade: Sharon Dunn (22) 72c/b, Fran Giudes (19) 72;

B Grade: Pattie Bowden (28) 70, Glenda Hendricks (28) 72;

C Grade: Jeanette Fey (35) 72, Patricia Hawkins (34) 75c/b.

Ladies Stroke Gross Gymea Course: A Grade: Jennifer Frost (10) 86; B Grade: Patricia Bowden (28) 98;

C Grade: Jeanette Fey (35)

Brush Box Course. A Grade: Greg Spake (15) +3; John Clark (11) +2. B Grade: James Horgan (20) +4; David Rann (16) +3. C Grade: Max Fernance (27) +2; John De Ridder (36) +1

Men’s Stableford: Ind Par 1-18 Gymea Lily course. A Grade: Graham Kerslake (15) +5; Craig Mackenzie (8) +4 c/b.

B Grade: Mike Selmo (19) +4; Peter Carter (17) +3.

C Grade: John Geoghegan (33) +2; David Schmarr (26) +1 c/b.

Overall winners:

1. Brian Single 24

2. John Priddy 23.

Ladies 4BBB Stableford:

Four Ball:

Brushbox Courses: Brenda Wark and Elsie Flanagan 47, Ann Turner and Mary Kay 44.

Men’s Stableford: Brushbox Courses:

Overall Winners: John Townsend (25) 28, Peter Campbell (16) 36, Steven Brown (10) 32.

Friday 14 October

Men’s Stableford:

38. C Grade: Graeme Richards (28) 39. C Grade:

Zbigniew Wasilewicz (30) 38

Women’s Stableford:

Overall Winner

1: Sharon dunn (22) 40

Saturday 15 October

Mens Stroke:

A Grade: Lachlan Lewis (5) 67 Allan Daubaras (11) 68.

B Grade: Harvey Mason (15) 70, Wayne Finney (15) 72 c/b.

C Grade: Nathan Lilly (20) 66, Darren Hancock (20) 69

D Grade: Richard Bennett (28) 64, Michael Stockenhuber (24) 70.

www.newsofthearea.com.au

about Probus and activities such as barbecues, movies, day trips, morning teas and walks for pleasure.

For more information, phone Rosamund on 0419 119 216.

q The happy couple, Lyn and Gerry, who have reached their 65th wedding anniversary.

wedding anniversary the day before and are hopeful of making it to 70 years.

The Combined Probus Club of Medowie meets at 10.00 am on the third Wednesday of the month at Medowie Community Centre and all are welcome.

The Combined Probus Club of Medowie is intended for retired and semi-retired

Tilligerry

members of the community. The regular meetings provide an opportunity for meeting people and feature guest speakers covering a wide range of topics, morning tea, and a lucky door prize or two.

If you would like more details, contact medowieprobus@gmail.com.

SPORT

Social Golf Club

TILLIGERRY

Social Golf Club results for 14 October.

Outright winner: Dale Fittock. 35

Runner up: Ron McKay. 34

Bonus points winner: Ed Martin. 29

Runner up: Peter Couvaras. 28 c/b Ball winners: Wendy Couvaras. 28 Bryan Porter: 26 John McDonald: 27

D&C4th: Dale Fittock

D&C7th

Ron McKay Peter Couvaras

NTP18th

(B) Mark Skidmore

Lucky number: 16. Hugh Potts

There were thirteen starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Not a complete game without rain, but most continued to the end. Hopefully better weather next week 20/10/22

Single Stableford.

q Graeme Paul, Sue Watson, Edith and Rex Sneyd, and Verlaine Griffiths enjoying lunch at Mod Thai. Photo: Lyn Moffitt.

q Tucking into a great meal with the Fingal Bay Probus Club were Gloria Russell and Estelle Latham. Photo: Lyn Moffitt.

q Members of the Combined Probus Club of Medowie enjoying a day out together in fellowship and fun.

Ed Martin

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

On the Couch

Before you leave, I should mention the meal also includes over two tablespoons of sugar that will have you reaching a sugar high before you reach the first roundabout, and a sugar crash about 30 kilometres later.

Have a nice day.

Sometimes we just want to buy something incognito.

No lessons taken from SRV Mark I

DEAR News Of The Area,

What is the matter with Port Stephens Council?

Do they not know that their job descriptions are to be found in the Local Government Act?

After its lack of success with SRV Mark I following the exposure of various misrepresentations to the media and public, to try again on a larger scale indicates

OPINION

to me that no lessons were learned.

The timing of its latest manoeuvre could barely be worse: a sixth interest rate rise (does anyone believe it will be the last?), affordable rental properties almost a figment of the imagination, ongoing cost of living increases, and a lurking global economic downturn.

Did Council not read the letter of Richard Poggioli

(Examiner 04/08/22) in which his succinct explanation of future increased revenue to Council may have been a revelation for Council as well as a harbinger for the electors of PSLGA.

The statements of George Hogan, Ken Fletcher and D Bell (Examiner 06/10/22) are also widely supported.

It appears to me that

DEAR Jasminda,

I went to the bottle shop last night and bought a cheap pinot grigio to add to my risotto.

When I took it to the counter, the sales assistant asked if I'd like a chilled one.

I said no, it's just for cooking. He raised his eyebrows and said, 'Of course it is.'

Should I feel insulted?

Dear Julie,

Mrs Julie S.

Sales assistants seem to be a lot more intrusive than they used to be.

Maybe it's a new module of training they receive.

Soon there will be mandated health announcements when you're just trying to do some basic carb-loading.

Something like: Thank you for your purchase.

You're about to consume 580 calories including saturated and trans fats, enough sodium to bring on some pretty impressive high blood pressure readings, and over 100 grams of carbs with just 2 grams of fibre.

those pushing for SRV Mark II are seeking self-glorification in the belief that they will be acknowledged as the avant-garde saviours of some PSLGA towns (viewed by them as Woollahra Bay, Vaucluse Bay etc.) by

Perhaps you weren't convincing enough with your 'it's just for cooking' line.

Not saying enough is one of the tell-tale signs of lying during an interrogation, something I've gleaned from watching one too many true crime interrogations on social media (with those pesky algorithms now suggesting I may need a self-help program and/or a home detention ankle monitor).

Next time you go to the bottleshop, add some believable flourishes to your purchase.

Arrive wearing an apron and a flustered expression.

Head to the counter with confidence.

Announce that you are making white wine braised ribs and though you have the cream, the salted butter, and were just in the process of making the gremolata (that will throw them), you were clean out of pinot grigio.

Then, go home and make a toasted cheese sandwich and pour yourself a nice glass of wine chilled down with two stainless steel reusable ice cubes.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

implementing actions Council itself deems appropriate.

The people's desires and needs must be paramount when it is their monies, including the monies of the river people, that would bring

NEWSVariety Fundraising Appeal

THIS October, Woolworths is encouraging Port Stephens customers to help children and families in need by supporting the Variety Fundraising Appeal by simply purchasing a $2 token or rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar when they shop.

Celebrating nine years in partnership, Woolworths customers have helped raise more than $13.8 million with Variety across NSW and the ACT.

Funds from this year’s appeal will go towards the ‘Variety We Move Grant’, providing life-changing mobility equipment for kids living with a disability.

Taya, age twelve, was born with muscular dystrophy, a progressive and degenerative muscle condition, and uses a wheelchair to get around.

Taya’s old wheelchair had massive limitations with her having to worry

about it not getting up stairs or fitting through doors.

Taya’s Mum Courtney said, “We were so desperate for a new wheelchair for Taya, they are like her legs, and Variety was our last hope.

“We applied for the Variety We Move Grant

after being told about it from Taya’s support coordinator, and the process was easy.

“The new wheelchair has changed Taya’s life, it’s changed our whole family’s life.”

Woolworths Raymond Terrace North Group Manager, Danial Melia said,

“Our continued support of Variety this year is important, as together we can help provide community members across NSW and the ACT with the help they need.

“We are extremely grateful for the continuous generosity that our customers bring, providing

q Taya was born with muscular dystrophy.

these projects to fruition.

Yes, Mr Poggioli, an SRV is an abysmal idea.

Regards, Elizabeth MEADER, Raymond Terrace.

a positive impact on local families and children.”

David Small, Executive Officer, Variety NSW and ACT said, “Through our partnership with Woolworths, Variety is able to help change the lives of so

many children and families.

“Every dollar plays a vital role in directly helping NSW and ACT children during challenging times, and we are thankful for the incredible support from our community.”

with Jasminda

Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

READING by Lynne Miles: Matthew

gate.

gate

q Woolworths can support the Variety Fundraising Appeal, which is providing mobility equipment to kids like Taya, who was born with muscular dystrophy.

FRI SAT SUN MON TUE

SPOT

Mountain Men

By Geoff WALKER

TILLIGERRY has more than its fair share of mountain men who make the annual trek to Mt Panorama to watch the Bathurst 1000.

This year tested their resolve with the rivers west of the Great Divide awash with floodwaters but these hardy souls braved the elements and will be back next year.

Retired master mechanic and local car club registrar Geoff Camm gives us an insight into why he has

returned for well over 40 years.

“Atmosphere is what it's all about,” he said.

“You just can't absorb the excitement of the real thing watching it on TV,” he stated.

“The sounds, smells and rivalry create a scene no different to a grand final football match.

“I wouldn't miss it for the world,” he remarked.

Geoff said the race was also an opportunity to meet like minded car enthusiasts from around

Australia.

“We camp out and visit one another, have a few drinks and thoroughly enjoy ourselves,” he said.

Another Tilligerry resident with strong links to Mt Panorama was the late John Snow who both raced there and was pivotal in developing the circuit both before and after WW2.

Little would be remembered of him had his life and times had not been recorded in an excellent

motor racing book by John Medley.

'John Snow Classic Motor Racer' (2010) took some ten years to cobble together.

It charts the life of a rich playboy who is set abroad on buying trips by his father who owned 'Snows', a huge emporium in Sydney.

It was on the European circuit that the young John cut his teeth at motor racing and had him importing cars to Australia.

He was heavily involved in developing the Mt Panorama

race track and also extended his business interests to the district.

After retiring from motor sports he and his wife Judy opened real estate offices in Lemon Tree Passage and Tanilba Bay.

Their waterfront home at Tanilba had its lower storey built taller than most to accommodate a grandfather clock which was a family heirloom.

Their final move was to Fullerton Cove where Judy indulged herself with horses.

IT'S YOUR LOCAL, INDEPENDENT NEWS OF THE AREA

Pick one up today.

q Mountain man Geoff Camm with his treasured 1955 Chevrolet.